New TV spot for The Grey

A new TV spot has been released for Joe Carnahan's survival movie The Grey, in which Liam Neeson contends with a plane crash, lots of snow and some very toothy wolves.The new spot features a raft of Twitter reactions from fans, most of which go along the lines of "OMG, Liam Neeson is a f**king badass!" And to be fair to them, the footage on display here would appear to bear that out.In terms of exposition, we pretty much know what we're dealing with here (plane crashes in the frozen wastes of Alaska; oil-drilling team attempt to survive against the odds) which allows the trailer to plough straight into the action.And what action it is, with Neeson baring his teeth and going head to head with a pack of angry wolves. We don't think we've seen anything more kick-ass this year, than the snarling Irishman running full-pelt at one of the startled looking predators!Take a look at the new spot here... The Grey is released in the UK on 27 January 2012. Mother Nature had better watch out... Liam Neeson is coming to give her a bloody nose!

Rapper Baba Brinkman Will get Positively Medieval

NY (AP) Most emcees boast regarding their intellect, but couple of get out there and really obtain a masters degree in medieval and Renaissance literature to allow them to spit better rhymes.On the other hand, most emcees aren't Baba Brinkman.The 33-year-old Canadian, who when speaking is equally as prone to quote from Ice-T as create a mention of the transformative psychology, has put his existence in the service of stylish-hop, a kind of music he sees as unlimited in the energy.To prove it, he's rapped a version of Geoffrey Chaucer's 14th-century "The Canterbury Tales." He's also waded into science, dealing with Charles Darwin's "The Foundation from the Species," and it has rapped about market financial aspects."Every message is favorable for this medium," he states. "People would say, 'Well, maybe theoretically. But whoever else got?' This is where the 'Canterbury Tales' idea came into being: Basically can rap medieval poetry, then which will show people the boundarylessness from the genre."Brinkman, together with his frequent DJ collaborator Jamie Simmonds, is presently returning to Chaucer using their "The Canterbury Tales Remixed" in the SoHo Playhouse carrying out a effective run there of "The Rap Help guide to Evolution" this fall.The show sandwiches three from the Canterbury Tales between your epic poems of Gilgamesh and Beowulf, turning these dusty old works that torture adolescents in classes into remarkably current and vivid tales."This really is larger than me it's larger than you, larger than rap," Brinkman states towards the top of the show. "It's larger than fingers on triggers and larger than gangsters slingin' the crack/That's only the latest version of the ancient story/The trend of players hungry for fame and glory."Throughout performances, Brinkman prowls happens in a set of jeans along with a hoodie, and frequently interacts with Simmonds, who scratches out beats on his decks and it is vulnerable to layer Mobb Deep cuts over strings.The 2 met in 2008 within the southeast British town of Brighton and instantly glued over their passion for stylish-hop. Simmonds, a 36-year-old Englishman, originated from a recording studio background was more accustomed to spinning records to tipsy ballroom dancers in nightclubs than supplying the background music for any rap about behavior designs of primate species."We simply really connected. I truly loved it was something so different. It type of opened up an entire " new world " for me personally too. The theater world was something I'd never been part of,Inch Simmonds states. "I truly have a challenge. And that is what it really was. It had been putting myself from my safe place."Browse The BACK STAGE Overview Of "THE CANTERBURY TALES REMIXED" Brinkman originates from Vancouver, Bc, and grown trees within the Rocky Mountain tops every summer time for more than ten years. At Simon Fraser College, his masters thesis came parallels between your mobile phone industry's of stylish-hop music and literary poetry.After graduation, Brinkman, who had been born Dirk Brinkman, has had his award-winning stylish-hop theater shows to a large number of metropolitan areas all over the world, including several stops in the Edinburgh Fringe in Scotland. One show frequently creates a commission for an additional from audience people stunned that Brinkman's raps can tackle any complex idea."Everything we all do is really a tribute to stylish-hop. I believe I am pretty rare for the reason that I really got an British masters degree because I thought about being a far more versatile MC," he states."I needed to describe to individuals that rap isn't 4 decades old. I am talking about, stylish-hop like a culture is 4 decades old and the one thing we call rap today is 4 decades old, but rhymed storytelling is ancient. Every culture's got a bit of variation."In lots of ways, his remixed Chaucer is really a go back to his roots. After you have his masters, Brinkman together with having a version of "The Canterbury Tales," which at that time incorporated The Miller's Tale and also the Wife of Bath's Tale. For that new show, he's rewritten everything and worked with with Simmonds on original music.Determining to rap about "The Canterbury Tales" constitutes a perverse sense. Brinkman describes that Chaucer authored a wealthy and elaborate tapestry of medieval social existence, mixing pictures of classes, from nobles to employees, from priests and nuns to drunkards and thieves.There is one more reason, too: "He's dirty," states Brinkman, laughing."He's the Clever Ron of this era," Simmonds adds."'The Canterbury Tales' are extremely unashamed along with a totally piercing portrait of human instinct and human mistakes. And i believe rap is the fact that too. It does not blush if this examines human behavior," Brinkman states. "It's all regulated displayed in rap hpv warts and all sorts of. And that is what 'The Canterbury Tales' is, too."Within the show, Brinkman's lyrics carried out over Simmonds' moody, orchestral score explain the job via a cheeky modern lens. Within the Pardoner's Tale, Brinkman raps the title character is "a medieval televangelist. He's Creflo Dollar, he's Ted Haggard, she has mad swagger like Jimmy Swaggart."Within the same tale, Brinkman offers a method to comprehend the three drunken males seeking to kill Dying: "Think Boyz within the Hood think Menace to Society/Just in the Dark Ages, from the Flemish variety."His focus on Chaucer brought to "The Rap Help guide to Evolution," ''The Rap Help guide to Human Instinct" and "The Rap Help guide to Business," that they was commissioned to create to welcome a brand new class at NY University's Stern School of economic.InchIndividual capital, it's difficult to evaluate," he rapped in a single song. "But without them your company won't survive/Human capital, it's difficult to evaluate/You have to provide people not only a 9 to 5.InchBrinkman and Simmonds have both gone to live in NY and therefore are planning to make the most of their three-year work visas. Their evolution rap will tour early in the year and also the Chaucer jobs are now taking pleasure in a run until early The month of january, and could tour too.The 2 are plotting a brand new rap guide, possibly on religion or possibly on global warming. Anything, it will not be fluffy. "I am not quite attracted to small talk," states Brinkman. "Being an MC, I wish to tackle probably the most questionable, interesting things on the planet.InchCopyright laws 2011 Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Taylor Quick CoverGirl Ad Banned for Excessive Photoshopping

Taylor Quick The Nation's Advertising Division has banned Taylor Swift's CoverGirl mascara print ad within the U . s . States due to excessive Photoshopping, Business Insider reviews.According the NAD, the ad for CoverGirl NatureLuxe Mousse Mascara made "superior performance claims," for example "2X more volume" and "20 % lighter," that may 't be substantiated.Take a look at photos of Taylor SwiftProcter & Gamble, parents company of CoverGirl, did possess a disclaimer in small print within the ad nevertheless Swift's lashes were "enhanced in publish production," but that wasn't enough to appease the NAD, that was "particularly troubled" through the final product."You cannot make use of a photograph to show the way a cosmetic will take care of it's put on a ladies face after which - within the rodents type - possess a disclosure that states 'OK, not necessarily,Inch NAD Director Andrea Levine stated.United kingdom restrictions "sexually provocative" perfume ad featuring Dakota FanningThe ruling may be the initial one through the NAD, that is following within the actions from the U.K.'s Advertising Standards Authority in cracking lower on beauty advertisements which are misleading customers. In This summer, the ASA drawn advertisements featuring Jennifer Aniston for Lancome and Christy Turlington for Maybelline due to digital retouching. Recently, the watchdog group banned a "sexually provocative" scent ad with 17-year-old Dakota Fanning.

'Young Adult' behavior

Diablo Cody and Ben Kingsley.Megan Colligan, Make the most of Moore and Kaira Grey celebrate within the Academy Theater.Patton Oswalt with Jason Reitman Mindy Kaling and Charlize Theron On Thursday evening, Charlize Theron celebrated what is the news of her Golden Globe nom earlier tomorrow while using relaxation in the "Youthful Adult" cast within the Vital pic's preem.But, clearly, the task is what really counts. "I practically stalked him for a while,Inch Theron mentioned of helmer Jason Reitman. "So that it was great when he finally introduced us a task he thought might be well suited for me."Joining the festivities within the Academy Theater were Paul Rudd and "Youthful Adult" co-star Patton Oswalt. Each of them came out earlier your evening in the reading through through of "The Princess Bride" at LACMA that Reitman had develop.

Martha Stewart in 'Active Discussions' on New Hallmark Deal

She may not have been born this way, but Lady Gaga was pop's top-earning woman in 2011.our editor recommendsTony Bennett's Nude Lady Gaga Sketch Available on EBayLady Gaga Reveals 'Dream' of Working With Woody AllenThe Scene at THR's 2011 Women In Entertainment Power 100 Breakfast PHOTOS: THR's 2011 Women in Entertainment Power 100 According to Forbes, Lady Gaga earned $90 million from album sales, touring and endorsements -- double the estimated earnings of Taylor Swift and Katy Perry, who made $45 million and $44 million, respectively. In Gaga context, that's over $5 million for each of the pop provocateur's nearly 17 million Twitter followers, or $2 million a piece for her Facebook little monsters. The numbers reflect earnings between May 2010 and 2011. COMPLETE LIST: 2011 Women in Entertainment Power 100 That calendar means Adele, who notched $18 million and ninth place with only a few months of record-keeping for her chart-ruling 21, may be tough competition for Mother Monster in 2012. Rounding out the top 10 list was Beyonce ($35 million), Rihanna ($29 million), Pink ($22 million), Carrie Underwood ($20 million), Celine Dion ($19 million) and Britney Spears, who tied with Alicia Keys at $10 million for the No. 10 spot. Overall, U2 was Forbes' top act in music, with the band notching $195 million. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery 54th Annual Grammy Nominees: Kanye West, Adele, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Katy Perry Related Topics Katy Perry Lady Gaga Taylor Swift

SAG/AFTRA Merger Committee Changes Into High(er) Gear Sets Unequalled Marathon Meeting to use on Plan

Getty Images Universal has acquired U . s . States rights for the untitled Jennifer Aniston-Luc Besson drama. Jolie will star inside the project, that's known to love a "dramatic thriller with action."which is mentioned to become mix between Besson's own much-respected movies The Professional as well as the Fifth Element. Besson written the script for your new project and may produce and direct. The studio is providing this as Besson's return to the genre through which he gained his title. Universal acquired eighty percent of worldwide distribution rights for the project, which solutions the question from the products movie Jolie can do next. PHOTOS: Jennifer Aniston and Hollywood's 10 Finest-Paid out Stars The actress, which has her directorial debut Inside the Land of Blood stream and Honey opening 12 ,. 23, has several projects competing on her behalf attention. Our prime-profile ones add a biopic of Gertrude Bell and Scarpetta, the 2nd which would be to establish at Fox. Universal remains monitoring the development of the Bell biopic, which has Ridley Scott installed on direct, which is wanting to land it. The completely new movie will begin shooting April 2012 in Paris. Email: Boyrs.Package@thr.com Twitter: @Borys_Package Jennifer Aniston Luc Besson

Broadway 'Venus' moves orbit

Manhattan Theater Club's non-profit Broadway production of "Venus in Fur" will get a commercial transfer to the Lyceum Theater, where the show picks up perfs in February. Stars Hugh Dancy and Nina Arianda are both set to move with the show to its new venue, where "Venus" is skedded for a limited run of about four months. Well-reviewed production hasn't been logging B.O.-busting grosses, in part due to the MTC subscribers who in most cases pay less for individual ducats than single-ticket buyers. Besides, MTC's Main Stem theater, the Friedman, is one of the Rialto's smallest with 650 seats. Weekly sales for the show have barely topped the $400,000 mark. However, attendance has been on the upswing, with the production filling seats to between 97% and 100% of capacity in the frames since reviews hit. At nearly 950 seats, the Lyceum will add some 300 seats per perf (or 2,400 per week) to fill. Broadway shift is the latest step for a show that originated in a 2010 Off Broadway preem at Classic Stage Company. That run, in which Dancy did not appear, provided Arianda with the breakout turn that landed her on the Rialto in "Born Yesterday" last season. Based on an 19th century erotic novel, adaptation by David Ives centers on the power play between a theater writer-director (Dancy) and an actress (Arianda) auditioning to play a role. Walter Bobbie ("Chicago") helms. "Venus," which will shutter at the Friedman Dec. 18 to make way to MTC's upcoming revival of "Wit," begins perfs Feb. 7 for a limited stint set to finish June 17. Lyceum run will be produced by Jon B. Platt, Scott Landis, Manhattan Theater Club Prods., Jessica R. Jenen, Scott M. Delman and Classic Stage Company. Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com

The Black List 2011: By Managers

The Black List 2011: Script Roster The Black List 2011: By Agencies MANAGERS – by quantity of scripts Management 360 5 Variety 4 Kaplan/Perrone 3 Benderspink 3 H2F 3 Circle of Confusion 3 The Gotham Group 3 The Safran Company 2 Energy Entertainment 2 Four Floor Productions 2 Oasis Media Group 2 Quality Media 2 3 Arts Entertainment 1 Industry Entertainment 1 Infinity Management Worldwide 1 Brillstein Entertainment Partners 1 Madhouse Entertainment 1 Magnet Management 1 Anonymous Content 1 Hopscotch Pictures 1 New School Media 1 New Wave 1 Quality Media 1 Prolific 1 Quiet R Management 1 Tariq Merhab Management 1 Gotham Group 1 Generate 1 The Schiff Company 1 Tom Sawyer 1 Subterranean Films and Management 1 Zero Gravity Management 1 MANAGERS – by quantity of votes The Safran Company 143 Tariq Merhab Management 84 Management 360 68 Industry Entertainment 59 Anonymous Content 53 Circle of Confusion 46 The Gotham Group 45 Quiet R Management 43 Kaplan/Perrone 43 Four Floor Productions 38 H2F 30 Benderspink 28 Energy Entertainment 26 Magnet Management 23 Oasis Media Group 22 Quality Media 22 3 Arts Entertainment 17 Brillstein Entertainment Partners 17 Gotham Group 14 Variety 14 Infinity Management Worldwide 14 Zero Gravity Management 13 New School Media 10 Quality Media 10 Prolific 8 Hopscotch Pictures 8 Generate 7 Subterranean Films and Management 7 The Schiff Company 7 New Wave 6 Tom Sawyer 6 Madhouse Entertainment 6

'War Horse': The Making of Steven Spielberg's WWI Epic

This story first appeared in the Dec. 9 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommendsAndy Serkis on Who Sends Him Hate Mail; Why Oscar Should Rethink Animated Category (Q&A)Why 'Tintin' and 'Rango' Stand Out Among This Year's Animated Awards Contenders (Opinion) For most of Academy Awards history, animation and visual effects have competed in separate categories. But as the line between VFX and animation gets increasingly blurry, animated films like Kung Fu Panda 2 or Puss in Boots -- as well as the performance-capture-based The Adventures of Tintin -- could emerge as contenders in the VFX category. The VFX branch made a loud statement about what constitutes a visual effect in 2007 when it put CG-animated Ratatouille and motion-capture-based Beowulf on its list of 15 Oscar contenders. PHOTOS: The Big Screen's Evolution of Talking Animals So what's the difference between animation and VFX? "It's ambiguous," admits DreamWorks Animation's Alex Parkinson, VFX supervisor on Kung Fu Panda 2. "Everything you see in an animated movie is a visual effect." One notoriously tough effect to render in live action is computer-generated water -- which is also tough to animate. "The tools and techniques are exactly the same," says Parkinson. "The difference is that on a traditional live-action movie, you are matching a plate, which has its own complications, and on an animated movie, you are creating the world from scratch and defining the rules of the world a lot more." PHOTOS: 10 Inappropriately Sexy Cartoon Characters That may amount to no difference at all in the animation-acclimated eyes of VFX branch voters. The CG water in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 could be judged alongside the CG water created for Tintin and Panda. Not since Tim Burton's 1993 stop-motion classic The Nightmare Before Christmas has animation earned a VFX Oscar nomination. This time, 2012 could be the year. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery 2010's Animated Movie Box Office Scorecard Related Topics Oscars Kung Fu Panda 2 Oscars 2012 Puss in Boots The Adventures of Tintin Animation

The Help guide to Thursday TV: Bones, A Workplace Customer, A Rustic Christmas, and much more!

Bones Always a well known (if sometimes contentious) subject during my Request Matt forum, Fox's Bones refutes any notion that it is heart is not in the best place within this week's ultimately touching episode (9/8c). Rob Waite (forever Papa Walton to a lot of us, though nowadays also known as Jethro's father on NCIS) constitutes a welcome return as Booth's grandfather, bearing some uncomfortable news which has the pregnant Bones (Emily Deschanel) wondering just how to achieve to a closed-off Booth (David Boreanaz, who's in especially fine form). "I ought to have the ability to help Booth, should not I?" she frets to some supportive Angela. It can be her pregnancy the body's hormones and also the irritatingly swelling breasts, but Bones relaxes her guardedness enough doing guy with an emotional rough patch that invokes reminiscences both good and bad. For this week's situation, which returns Tina Majorino as gung-ho Agent Shaw - who'd do anything whatsoever to thrill Booth - let us just say it gives new meaning towards the publish office's "dead letter" operation. Piecing together this puzzle means assembling an appearance discovered in multiple shipping boxes - yet another day at work for that squints.Want more TV news? Sign up for TV Guide Magazine now!ER's Maura Tierney returns to NBC's Thursday evening selection - going to Work (9/8c) because the wife of enigmatic new Boss Robert California (James Spader), who's searching to locate a role for his spouse at Dunder Mifflin. Elsewhere on NBC's comedy selection: Leslie continues trial on Parks and Entertainment (8:30/7:30c) Shaun and Shirley synergy to seize control from the school's foosball table on recently christened TV Guide Magazine "fan favorite" Community (8/7c), while Annie makes matters worse when she attempts to hide the truth that she broke Abed's Dark Dark night DVD as well as in a bizarre preview of sorts to impending midseason changes, Chelsea Handler visitors like a counselor on Whitney (9:30/8:30c) within an episode entitled "Up Through The Night." Since you may often hear, Whitney is going to be vacating Thursdays within the year, changing with Up Through The Night and developing a brand new Wednesday block with Are You Currently There, Chelsea? - which might be a moot question if these shows don't pull how much they weigh inside a typically hard time period for NBC.A couple of musical notes: It is a double elimination on Fox's The X Factor (8/7c), meaning regardless of how it plays out, a minumum of one from the "women" or "men" is going to be removed from Simon Cowell's or L.A. Reid's teams - maybe one from each if Josh Krajcik, the final (and finest) from the elders, handles to outlive (though he battled on Michael Jackson evening having a bad, and badly overproduced, number). And knowing from individuals amusing cutaways Wednesday evening towards the bored-searching Jackson kids within the audience, if sour-faced little Blanket Jackson had his way, everybody could be going home. ... Noticeably missing in the X Factor ranks is anybody in the country persuasion. Therefore if that's more for your taste, ABC obliges with CMA Country Christmas (9/8c), a 2-hour holiday music hootenanny featuring The American Idol Show alums Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina and Kellie Pickler, together with this type of-listers as Belief Hill, Martina McBride, Kaira Paisley, Keith Urban - as well as in a jerk towards the box office, Vince Gill inside a duet using the Muppets' Miss Piggy.Among popular features of World Helps Day-related programming: Logo design starts a 2-evening presentation from the brilliant Cinemax miniseries version of Tony Kushner's epic Angels in the usa (10/9c concludes Friday at 10/9c), featuring Al Pacino and Meryl Streep among an amazing ensemble. ... Showtime's focal point inside a evening of Helps-related documentary programming is Have a Child Alive With Alicia Secrets (9/8c), where the music performer brings five contest those who win to Nigeria to go to sites in which the "Have a Child Alive" foundation provides health care and moral support to children and families impacted by Aids/Helps.Implies that demand to become taken moderately: TLC discloses the effects to be billed with D.U.I. (9/8c) inside a new COPS-like series shot in Oklahoma, where police crack lower on drunk motorists, who cameras follow-through area sobriety tests through arrest and sentencing. ... Discovery stories the Weed Wars (10/9c, simulcast on Discovery Fit & Health) on the planet of medicinal marijuana, following the employees of Concord, CA's Harborside Health Center, referred to as "the country's biggest medicinal cannabis dispensary," serving 94,000 patients. Snoop Dogg works the series' original title track towards the surprise of simply no one.What exactly else is on? ... It's less than as legendary or as enjoyable as Rudolph, which once more demonstrated a rankings champion for CBS the 2009 week, however the 1970 Rankin-Bass Father Christmas Is Comin' to Town (ABC, 8/7c) is tonight's bid for classic-cartoon supremacy, with Fred Astaire narrating and Mickey Rooney supplying the voice from the youthful Kris Kringle, who memorably knots using the odious Burgermeister Meisterburger. ... OWN's Documentary Club presents One Lucky Elephant (9/8c), that is really concerning the unlucky Flora, an orphaned African elephant who had been adopted and trained with a circus owner who eventually realizes he or she must look for a home on her after she retires. Much easier in theory. ... Tonight's Mentalist repeat from last season on CBS (10/9c) is notable because of its guest turn by Morena Baccarin, so terrific on Showtime's Homeland this year, being an alluring matchmaker who Patrick Jane thinks might have killed her husband.Sign up for TV Guide Magazine now!

Sundance unveils Next, Midnight lineups

'The Pact''Grabbers''I Am Not a Hipster''Kid-Thing''Sleepwalk With Me'Sundance's edgy Next and Park City at Midnight lineups have taken on a higher profile lately, with buyers finding offbeat titles such as "Bellflower" among the selections. The Sundance Film Festival also unveiled lineups today for its Spotlight best-of-fests section and the experimental New Frontier selection.Director of programming Trevor Groth said the Next sidebar, inaugurated in 2010 to call attention to innovative no-budget work, continues to gain in importance.Other films from last year's Next section that found distribution include "The Lie" and "Sound of My Voice." To that end, Groth and fest topper John Cooper have added one more title to the section, bringing it to a total of nine world premieres.That leaves one less title in the fest's Park City at Midnight showcase, which consists of seven horror-thrillers and dark comedies. Selection includes "Black Rock," from Sundance alum Katie Aselton ("The Freebie"); "Tim and Eric's Billion Dollar Movie," directed, written by and starring the out-there comedic duo of Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim; and "V/H/S," an unusual collaboration among six directors including Joe Swanberg, Ti West and Adam Wingard.The best-of-fests Spotlight slate, dedicated to "cinema we love" from around the world, includes foreign-language Oscar submissions "Declaration of War" and "Monsieur Lazhar," Toronto audience-award winner "Where Do We Go Now?" and Cannes' Un Certain Regard prizewinner "Elena."The fest's experimental New Frontier section includes five features complementing previously announced installations and performances.Premieres and Documentary Premieres titles for the Jan. 19-29 fest in Park City, Utah will be announced Monday. SPOTLIGHTThe nine films in this section have all premiered at previous festivals."Corpo Celeste" (Italy) - Directed and written by Alice Rohrwacher. A Dardennes-esque study of a teenage girl's spiritual journey within and beyond the barriers of a strict Catholic community in southern Italy. Stars Yle Vianello, Salvatore Cantalupo, Anita Caprioli and Renato Carpentiere."Declaration of War" (Belgium) - Directed by Valerie Donzelli, written by Jeremie Elkaim and Donzelli. A young couple discover their newborn child is very ill. With Donzelli, Elkaim, Cesar Desseix."Elena" (Russia) - Directed by Andrei Zvyagintsev, written by Oleg Negin. An older woman faces a moral dilemma when her wealthy husband falls ill. Features Andrey Smirnov, Nadezhda Markina, Elena Lyadova and Alexey Rozin."Monsieur Lazhar" (Canada) - Directed, written by Philippe Falardeau. In which an Algerian immigrant teacher takes over a Montreal middle-school class shaken by his predecessor's suicide. With Fellag, Sophie Nelisse, Emilien Neron, Danielle Proulx and Brigitte Poupart."The Orator" (New Zealand) - Directed, written by Tusi Tamasese. A Samoan villager must defend his land and family from powerful adversaries. Stars Fa'afiaula Sagote, Tausili Pushparaj, Salamasina Mataia, Ioata Tanielu."The Raid" (Indonesia) - Directed, written by Gareth Evans. An elite SWAT team seeking Jakarta's most notorious crime boss must fight its way through successive levels of a run-down apartment building. Features Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Joe Taslim, Doni Alamsyah."Where Do We Go Now?" (France-Lebanon-Italy-Egypt) - Directed by Nadine Labaki, written by Labaki, Jihad Hojeily and Rodney Al Haddad, with the collaboration of Thomas Bidegain. Lebanese women try to ease religious tensions between Christians and Muslims in their village. With Claude Baz Moussawbaa, Layla Hakim, Nadine Labaki, Yvonne Maalouf, Antoinette Noufaily."Wuthering Heights" (U.K.) - Directed by Andrea Arnold, written by Arnold and Olivia Hetreed. A raw, revisionist update of Emily Bronte's wind-swept classic. Stars Kaya Scodelario, James Howson, Solomon Glave, Shannon Beer and Steve Evets."Your Sister's Sister" - Directed and written by Lynn Shelton. Mourning his brother's recent death, a man gets more than he bargained for when he retreats to a friend's family cabin. Stars Emily Blunt, Rosemarie DeWitt and Mark Duplass. PARK CITY AT MIDNIGHTThe seven films in this section are all world premieres and, unless otherwise specified, from the U.S."Black Rock" - Directed by Katie Aselton, written by Mark Duplass. Three childhood friends reunite for a girls' weekend on a remote island off the coast of Maine, only to find themselves fighting for survival. With Katie Aselton, Lake Bell and Kate Bosworth."Excision" - Directed and written by Richard Bates Jr. A disturbed high-school student with medical aspirations seeks the approval of her controlling mother. Features AnnaLynne McCord, Traci Lords, Ariel Winter, Roger Bart and John Waters."Grabbers" (Ireland-U.K.) - Directed by Jon Wright, written by Kevin Lehane. Having a high blood-alcohol content becomes a survival tactic for residents of an Irish fishing village beset by mysterious blood-suckers. Stars Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley, Russell Tovey and Bronagh Gallagher."The Pact" - Directed and written by Nicholas McCarthy. A woman struggles to come to grips with her past in the wake of her mother's death. Stars Caity Lotz and Casper Van Dien."Tim and Eric's Billion Dollar Movie" - Directed and written by Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim, who star as two guys trying to win back a billion dollars by rehabilitating a rundown shopping mall."V/H/S" - Directed by Adam Wingard, David Bruckner, Ti West, Glenn McQuaid, Joe Swanberg and Radio Silence, written by Simon Barrett, Bruckner, West, McQuaid and Radio Silence. A group of misfits is hired by an unknown third party to burglarize a house and find a rare VHS tape. With Swanberg, Calvin Reeder, Wingard, Sophia Takal, Kate Lyn Sheil."Shut Up and Play the Hits" (U.K.) - Directed by Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace. A documentary that unfolds over 48 crucial hours in the life of LCD Soundsystem frontman James Murphy. NEXTThe nine films in this section are all world premieres and from the U.S."Compliance" - Directed and written by Craig Zobel. A prank caller convinces a fast-food restaurant manager to interrogate one of his employees. Stars Ann Dowd, Pat Healy, Dreama Walker, Bill Camp and Philip Ettinger."I Am Not a Hipster" - Directed and written by Destin Daniel Cretton. An exploration of love, loss and creativity in the face of tragedy set against the indie music and art scene. With Dominic Bogart, Alvaro Orlando, Brad William Henke, Tammy Minoff, Kandis Erickson and Lauren Coleman."Kid-Thing" - Directed and written by David Zellner. A rebellious girl's crooked routine is interrupted one day when she hears a woman calling for help from a hole in the ground. With Sydney Aguirre, Susan Tyrrell, Nathan Zellner and David Zellner."Mosquita y Mari" - Directed and written by Aurora Guerrero. Two 15-year-old Latinas discover a sexual undercurrent in their friendship. Stars Fenessa Pineda, Venecia Troncoso, Joaqun Garrido, Laura Patalano and Dulce Maria Solis."My Best Day" - Directed and written by Erin Greenwell. A small-town receptionist's life is turned upside down when the father she never knew calls for a refrigerator repair. With Rachel Style, Ashlie Atkinson, Raul Castillo, Jo Armeniox, Robert Salerno and Harris Doran."Pursuit of Loneliness" - Directed and written by Laurence Thrush. When an anonymous, elderly patient dies in a county hospital with no known next of kin, four people try to find a family member to contact. Features Joy Hille, Sandra Escalante, Sharon Munfus, Kirsi Toivanen and Natalie Fouron."Sleepwalk With Me" - Directed by Mike Birbiglia and Seth Barrish, written by Birbiglia, Ira Glass, Joe Birbiglia and Barrish. A budding standup comedian has an intense struggle with sleepwalking. Stars Birbiglia, Lauren Ambrose, Carol Kane, James Rebhorn and Cristin Milioti."That's What She Said" - Directed by Carrie Preston, written by Kellie Overbey. Two best friends and a mysterious young interloper have a series of misadventures while seeking love in NY. Stars Anne Heche, Marcia DeBonis and Alia Shawkat."Twenty-Eight Hotel Rooms" - Directed and written by Matt Ross. A couple's long-term affair is fragmented into a series of hotel rooms. With Chris Messina and Marin Ireland. NEW FRONTIERThe five films in this section are from the U.S. unless otherwise specified."Bestiaire" (Canada-France) - Directed by Denis Cote. Explores the boundaries we place around animals. World premiere."An Oversimplification of Her Beauty" - Directed and written by Terence Nance. After a mystery girl stands him up, a quixotic young man journeys various live-action and animated landscapes. With Terence Nance, Namik Minter and Chanelle Pearson. World premiere."The Perception of Moving Targets" - Directed and written by Weston Currie. A journey into the dreams of four neighbors. With Brighid Thomas, Cherie Blackfeather, Gerald Casey, Tom Wood and Jin Camou."Room 237" - Directed by Rodney Ascher. A docu exploration of the numerous theories about the real meaning of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining." World premiere."whiteonwhite:algorithmicnoir" (U.S.-Kazakhstan) - Directed by Eve Sussman, written by Sussman, Kevin Messman and Jeff Wood. A live algorithmic performance featuring a film noir assembled by a computer program from raw visual and audio elements. With Jeff Wood and Marina Fedorenko. Contact Justin Chang at justin.chang@variety.com

Casting Standout: 'Young Adult'

Casting Standout: 'Young Adult' By Melinda Loewenstein November 30, 2011 Photo by Paramount Pictures The first time that writer Diablo Cody teamed up with director Jason Reitman, the result was "Juno." Their latest collaboration, "Young Adult," tackles such topics as regret, reliving the past, and whether or not an individual can change.Charlize Theron plays the unlikable, entitled, and bitchy young-adult novelist and wannabe home-wrecker Mavis, who decides to return to her hometown and win back her old high-school flame after her book series ends. With a failed marriage and a faltering career, Mavis is determined to fix her life, but things don't work out quite the way she expected. While in town, she reunites with former classmate Matt, who is also trying to overcome the past, and the duo forge an unexpected bond. Patton Oswalt plays Matt, who is permanently disabled from a beating in high school.Casting directors Jessica Kelly and Suzanne Smith got the job done in about five weeks. They say Reitman's involvement in the casting sessions was a perk and that the best part of the process was watching him direct in the audition room. According to the CDs, he always knew the right thing to say, and his direction was always interesting and out of the box.As the majority of the movie is set in a small fictional town in Minnesota, Smith and Kelly say they wanted to create that world as realistically as possible. To that end, they were looking for funny, charismatic, inventive actors who gave the impression they actually lived in this small town but who could also deliver "Diablo Cody lines."The role of Buddy, Mavis' old flame, now a happily married family man, was the easiest to cast, the CDs say: Patrick Wilson walked in and was undeniably Buddy. For Buddy's wifethe kind-hearted, sympathetic BethElizabeth Reaser stood out early on as a favorite.One of the more difficult roles to cast was Mavis' mother, as the part required certain qualities to work. Smith and Kelly say they needed someone a bit Midwestern, with a sweetness that couldn't be acted but was innate; otherwise the character could come off as silly or too judgmental. They ended up finding those qualities in Jill Eikenberry.Other cast members include Collette Wolfe, as Matt's shy and awkward sister Sandra, and J.K. Simmons, who has appeared in all of Reitman's features, as Mavis' editor, who is heard but never seen.Casting Directors: Jessica Kelly and Suzanne SmithDirector: Jason ReitmanWriter: Diablo CodyStarring: Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, J.K. Simmons, Elizabeth Reaser, Patton OswaltThe Pitch: A fiction writer (Theron) returns to her hometown after her divorce, intent to rekindle a romance with an ex-boyfriend (Wilson) who is now married with a child. To read Back Stage's complete coverage of Awards Season, please get our FREE SAG Nomination Committee Guide. Or follow all our daily coverage with Back Stage's new online Awards Season section. Casting Standout: 'Young Adult' By Melinda Loewenstein November 30, 2011 PHOTO CREDIT Paramount Pictures The first time that writer Diablo Cody teamed up with director Jason Reitman, the result was "Juno." Their latest collaboration, "Young Adult," tackles such topics as regret, reliving the past, and whether or not an individual can change.Charlize Theron plays the unlikable, entitled, and bitchy young-adult novelist and wannabe home-wrecker Mavis, who decides to return to her hometown and win back her old high-school flame after her book series ends. With a failed marriage and a faltering career, Mavis is determined to fix her life, but things don't work out quite the way she expected. While in town, she reunites with former classmate Matt, who is also trying to overcome the past, and the duo forge an unexpected bond. Patton Oswalt plays Matt, who is permanently disabled from a beating in high school.Casting directors Jessica Kelly and Suzanne Smith got the job done in about five weeks. They say Reitman's involvement in the casting sessions was a perk and that the best part of the process was watching him direct in the audition room. According to the CDs, he always knew the right thing to say, and his direction was always interesting and out of the box.As the majority of the movie is set in a small fictional town in Minnesota, Smith and Kelly say they wanted to create that world as realistically as possible. To that end, they were looking for funny, charismatic, inventive actors who gave the impression they actually lived in this small town but who could also deliver "Diablo Cody lines."The role of Buddy, Mavis' old flame, now a happily married family man, was the easiest to cast, the CDs say: Patrick Wilson walked in and was undeniably Buddy. For Buddy's wifethe kind-hearted, sympathetic BethElizabeth Reaser stood out early on as a favorite.One of the more difficult roles to cast was Mavis' mother, as the part required certain qualities to work. Smith and Kelly say they needed someone a bit Midwestern, with a sweetness that couldn't be acted but was innate; otherwise the character could come off as silly or too judgmental. They ended up finding those qualities in Jill Eikenberry.Other cast members include Collette Wolfe, as Matt's shy and awkward sister Sandra, and J.K. Simmons, who has appeared in all of Reitman's features, as Mavis' editor, who is heard but never seen.Casting Directors: Jessica Kelly and Suzanne SmithDirector: Jason ReitmanWriter: Diablo CodyStarring: Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, J.K. Simmons, Elizabeth Reaser, Patton OswaltThe Pitch: A fiction writer (Theron) returns to her hometown after her divorce, intent to rekindle a romance with an ex-boyfriend (Wilson) who is now married with a child. To read Back Stage's complete coverage of Awards Season, please get our FREE SAG Nomination Committee Guide. Or follow all our daily coverage with Back Stage's new online Awards Season section.

Fire Alarms Interrupt NBCs Nightly News

First Published: November 30, 2011 11:34 AM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Brian Williams speaks onstage at the NBC Universal NBC News Q&A portion of the 2010 Winter TCA Tour day 2 at the Langham Hotel on January 10, 2010 in Pasadena, Calif.NY, N.Y. -- NBC News anchor and former volunteer firefighter Brian Williams doesnt expect to hear alarms during his day job. He did Tuesday night, when an audible fire alarm from a floor below the Nightly News studio in NY repeatedly interrupted the newscast. Spokeswoman Erika Masonhall said Wednesday that it was a drill, but that technicians couldnt immediately turn off studio loudspeakers. Nightly News moved into a new studio a month ago. Alarms went off twice as Williams read a story about American Airlines. He flashed a bemused smile the second time and said, We should remind our viewers that theres no danger to us. After the problem was fixed, Williams redid the broadcast for non-Eastern time zones. Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

'Red Dog' features its own visit to Oz kudo

Queensland -- Feelgood Aussie pic "Red-colored-colored Dog" fetched seven kudos within the Jameson Inside Film Honours kudocast Wednesday evening in Sydney. Pic, which notifies the story of techniques a canny canine unites just a little Aussie town inside the remote Pilbara region, won the most effective kudo for top film while Josh Lucas needed actor. "Red-colored-colored Dog" also needed home kudos for direction, script, cinematography, music and box office achievement due to its haul more than $20 milllion within the B.O. The actress prize visited Emily Watson on her behalf role in "Oranges and Sunshine" while movie testers Margaret Pomeranz and former Variety critic David Stratton were named Living Tales. The Inside Film Honours are people choice honours and screen on pubcaster SBS. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

The Expendables 2 Poster Arrives

Probably the most action movie poster everWARNING:only look into this poster is exactly what triggered half the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park in becoming males, so pumped with testosterone could it be. This promo for Expendables 2 consists of, by our estimate, 75% more muscles and 190% more guns than almost every other poster this season come up with.The film, when you are without doubt aware, sees Sylvester Stallone and company (including Jason Statham, TerryCrews, Dolph Lundgren and Jet Li) dealing with another impossible mission. With beefed-up roles this time around, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger have returned, and they are became a member of by Chuck Norris and Jean-Claude VanDamme. A lot bicep!A lot of roundhouse kicks towards the mind! And, er, Liam Hemsworth. Maybe that'll be preferable after we see him for action in Hunger Games presently, within the wake from the Last Song it does not make a lot sense. Simon "Disadvantage Air" West is pointing this time around.[[Poll554]]Expendables 2, which seems to possess dropped the definite article, arrives on August 17, 2012. We are not likely to refer to it as "EX 2" a lot of distressing reminiscences of LXG.

Tuner chimes in

Ted Turner, left; James M. Nederlander, chair of Nederlander Org; James L. Nederlander, prexy of Nederlander Org; and Thomas Schumacher, prexy of Disney Theatrical Group No charity will tell you that it's easy to get people interested in the developing world, but Chris Helfrich may have found a likely solution for Africa-centric initiative Nothing But Nets: Ask at the end of "The Lion King." "For us, 'The Lion King' made so much sense," said Helfrich, who runs the initiative for the U.N. Foundation. In cooperation with the Nederlander organization (which owns "Lion King" theater the Minskoff), Disney Theatricals, and Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS, the cast of the show will petition the aud to contribute to the charity. Helfrich said $10 increments are best -- it costs 10 bucks to send an African child a net to hang over his bed that will protect him from the mosquitoes that spread malaria. "It's all about engaging audiences around African themes and dealing with big issues, but in fun and easy-to-grasp ways," said Helfrich of the Julie Taymor/Elton John musical. "And that's really what our campaign is about, too. It's about connecting Americans with people in Africa by sending nets and saving lives." Tom Viola, of Broadway Cares, said his charity was "eager to assist" when it heard Disney and the Nederlanders were aiming to increase the $40 million that Nothing But Nets has raised so far. "This is just the cast of 'The Lion King,' specifically, asking people to join them in something that's important to them," Viola said. Fund-raising has been limited to the show's Broadway incarnation and will come during the spring appeal, beginning April 25 -- also World Malaria Day. The pitches take perhaps a minute to make, but in that minute, a child dies of malaria somewhere on the Horn of Africa. "When this campaign started, a child was dying every 30 seconds, and now it's every 45 seconds," Helfrich said. "We're making progress, but there's still way too many deaths." Contact Sam Thielman at sam.thielman@variety.com

'Tintin' finds more gold o'seas

The smart boy explorer from "The Adventures of Tintin: The Key from the Unicorn" is getting little difficulty finding his means by a large swath of areas, staking out a remarkable $123.7 million after just two days in the overseas box office."Tintin," distribbed by The new sony and Vital, collected a chart-topping $39.two million within the November. 4-6 weekend from the total 45 nations, including eight new areas, one of these Russia, in which the film gained $4.9 million, which a hearty 79% originated from three dimensional and Imax.The film's top market, however, was France, where it totalled $8.4 million in the second weekend, a small amount of 60% pic achieved positive results a week ago from increased holiday traffic in Gaul."Tintin" continues to be making B.O. head lines for days prior to its worldwide release -- nearly two several weeks in front of the 12 ,. 21 Stateside bow.Both The new sony and Componen, the second which reps just the U.K. in Europe, made the decision to provide European auds start looking to be able to take advantage of local summer break around this time around, in addition to make use of the original book series' recognition on that region ("Tintin" started in Belgium)."Tintin" launches a few days ago in India and Taiwan via The new sony and Componen, correspondingly.Also carrying out well in the second frame overseas, twentieth century Fox's sci-fi thriller "Over TimeInch made $17 million for any cume of $38.5 million. Pic released in 16 new areas, such as the U.K., where auds paid out $3 million -- enough for second place behind "Tintin," which collected $3.5 million there."Over TimeInch narrowly lost to "Tintin" in Russia, generating $4.3 million, lower only 14%. Around Australia, meanwhile, the film held to the top place, with $1.7 million. Fox states it needs the pic to eventually cume around $90 million worldwide, with possibility to mix the $100 million mark for the way its remaining marketplaces perform.Portugal may be the only new marketplace for "Over TimeInch a few days ago the film bows November. 23 in France, then Germany and The country the weekend of 12 ,. 2. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

'Dark Knight Rises' On Wall Street, 'Avengers' Scores Composer

"The Dark Knight Rises" is almost finished with its NY City rampage, and oh, what a rampage indeed. MTV News was on hand for some of the NYC-shooting of Christopher Nolan's final Batman movie, and we've got all the details for you in our new weekly column, The Weekly Rising. Check out footage from the NYC set below! There's more comic book movie news beyond the break. Back To "The Avengers" In news that's guaranteed to keep the "Back to the Future" theme playing in your head on repeat for the rest of the day, it's been revealed that composer Alan Silvestri will create the score for Joss Whedon's "The Avengers." In addition to his many Robert Zemeckis collaborations, Silvestri is also the man responsible for the "Captain America" score, so his experience with Earth's Mightiest Heroes is already quite clear. Henry Cavill Discusses "Man Of Steel" And "Immortals" Directors The once and future Superman explained the key differences between Zack Snyder of "Man of Steel" and "Immortals" director Tarsem Singh: "While Zack is very stylized; Tarsem is very artistic. Not to say Zack isn't artistic ... OK, watching that HDTV which is a masterwork in itself and seeing that painting on the wall, which is a masterwork in itself -- they are both beautiful, they both affect you, and they are so entirely different. Like Zack is the TV and Tarsem the painting." "Ghost Rider" Rating Manipulation "Spirit of Vengeance" directors Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor knew they were shooting for a PG-13 "Ghost Rider" movie, but according to the pair, they learned all of the tricks one needs to know to create what's effectively a PG-16 rating. See what they had to say in the video below: Tell us what you think of today's Splash Page roundup in the comments and on Twitter!

'J. Edgar' Screens at LACMA, Clint Eastwood and Co. on Hand for Festivities

Scott FeinbergLeonardo DiCaprio with the Eastwoods at LACMA event Last night, as part of a weekend-long celebration of Clint Eastwood, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) hosted a special screening of Eastwood's new film J. Edgar, followed by a Q&A with Eastwood, stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Armie Hammer, and writer Dustin Lance Black. I arrived in time to catch the second half of the film (the entirety of which I saw at its world premiere on Thursday night) and the Q&A (which was moderated by Charles McGrath of the NY Times).our editor recommends'J. Edgar': What the Critics Are SayingLeonardo DiCaprio As 'J. Edgar': What He's Saying About the RoleClint Eastwood's 'J. Edgar,' Featuring Leonardo DiCaprio as Hoover, Opens AFI Fest'J. Edgar' Q&A: Leonardo DiCaprio'J. Edgar' Q&A: Clint EastwoodJ. Edgar: Film Review PHOTOS: 'J. Edgar' Premiere Red Carpet Arrivals Some highlights of the Q&A: Eastwood taking the stage dressed in sneakers and munching on a cookie; DiCaprio noting that Black told him that the secrecy of the Bush Administration after 9/11 inspired him to write the film as a cautionary tale about what can happen if one man accumulates too much power and influence; Black laughing that when he went for his tour of the FBI it was led by some "lackey" but that when DiCaprio went for his it was led by Attorney General Eric Holder; DiCaprio noting that he met with a 90-something-year-old former colleague of Hoover's who was able to provide him with lots of good details about the man's mannerisms, humor, etc.; Black making it quite clear that he believes that Hoover and his longtime companion Clyde Tolson were indeed gay lovers (something that DiCaprio seemed less inclined to state outright); DiCaprio and Hammer divulging that it took them five to six hours and seven to eight hours, respectively, to be made up into the older versions of their characters; and Eastwood joking that he was always in his old age makeup. COVER STORY: The Making of 'J. Edgar' Afterwards, Warner Brothers, which is distributing J. Edgar, held a small reception with the talent for some press types, including yours truly. A friend re-introduced me to Eastwood, who I met a few times three years ago when he was on the awards circuit for Gran Torino (2008) -- at the National Board of Review Awards, at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, etc. -- and who, as always, couldn't have been more gracious. I mentioned that I had now seen J. Edgar twice in 24 hours, and he was very curious to hear my take on whether or not it improved on second viewing (it did) and in what ways (I picked up a lot of neat little facets of DiCaprio's performance that I'd overlooked the first time around, among other things). STORY: Clint Eastwood's 'J. Edgar,' Featuring Leonardo DiCaprio as Hoover, Opens AFI Fest I also asked him if he is open to the idea of acting again -- something we discussed three years ago after Torino -- and he said he's absolutely open to it if a strong enough part comes along. My friend told him that he wished Eastwood would do another western, since he became a movie lover watching Eastwood's Westerns, and Eastwood said he felt that he left things on about as high a note as he could with Unforgiven (1992), so it would take something really special for him to do another. I noted that, even at 81, he still looks like he's in great enough shape to saddle up again, and certainly proved that when I was last saw him at Santa Barbara: as a crowd waited for his limo to pull up in front of the red carpet, he surprised everyone by getting dropped off behind the crowd, then sneaking through it towards the barricades that kept them from the red carpet, and then hopping over the barricades! Reminded of that, he simply delivered his now-iconic wry smile and chuckle. Clint Eastwood Leonardo DiCaprio Armie Hammer J. Edgar

Four Casting Company directors Help Break You into TV at Actorfest LA

Four Casting Company directors Help Break You into TV at Actorfest LA November 1, 2011 Within the Television Drama Casting panel at Actorfest LA, four amazing Casting Company directors -- with credits which include "Dirty, Sexy, Money," "Shameless," "Gossip Girl," and "Bones" -- train you the way to enter TV.Need to know how you can burglary to television dramas? From co-stars to series regulars and from pre-read to network test -- top casting company directors discuss every side of television procedurals casting.Loudspeakers include (bios below): -- Mary Jo Slater, Casting Director-- John Frank Levey, Casting Director-- David Rapaport, Casting Director-- Ron Millikan, Casting DirectorTo sign up for this dynamic workshop, visit actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com.Proud casting achievements for Mary Jo Slater include William Friedkin's "Twelve Angry Males" for Showtime, starring Jack Lemmon, George C. Scott, and James Gandolfini and getting a C.S.A. nomination the DreamWorks feature "The Contender," starring Joan Allen, Shaun Bridges, and Gary Oldman as well as getting a C.S.A. nomination the CBS miniseries "Elvis," the ABC series "Commander-in-Chief," starring Geena Davis and Jesse Sutherland the Morgan Creek feature "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" the independent features "Come Morning Hours,Inch starring Ashley Judd and premiering at Sundance, and "Slipstream," starring Anthony Hopkins and also the ABC pilot of "Dirty, Sexy, Money."John Frank Levey continues to be famous for his casting work with seven Emmy nominations. He's received four Emmy Honours for his casting work, two each for "ER" and "Free Airline Wing." Through the years, he's received many nominations and honours from the Casting Society of America as well as in 2009 was honored with CSA's Hoyt Bowers Award for lifetime achievement. He's focusing on "Shameless" for Showtime and "Southland" for TNT. Levey continues to be praised for his use stars with disabilities.David Rapaport designed a reputation for themself by casting the pilot for "Gossip Girl," that he was honored having a nomination for the exclusive Artios Award. He's since worked with on several films, including "Vacancy," "The Other people," "Promenade Evening," "Quarantine," "The Ultimate Destination," "Armored," "The Apparition," "Evidence," and "LOL."Rapaport also offers extensive experience of television, casting the series "Masters of Horror" (Showtime), "Fear Itself" (NBC), "Rockville CA" (WBTV), "Hard Occasions of RJ Berger" (MTV), "My Generation" (ABC), and four seasons of "90210" (the CW), and that he is constantly on the consult on "Gossip Girl," now in the fifth season on the CW.Additionally, Rapaport cast the aircraft pilots for that "Gossip Girl" spinoff (the CW), "My Generation" (ABC), and many lately, David E. Kelley's "Question Lady" (NBC). Rapaport is really a proud person in the Casting Society of America.Ron Millikan is casting the seventh season from the hit Fox series "Bones," starring David Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel "The Finder," a spinoff from "Bones" starring Geoff Stults and Michael Clarke Duncan and ABC Family's "Melissa and Joey" with Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence.Other credits range from the CBS drama "Shark," starring James Forest and Jeri Ryan "The Protector" with Simon Baker and Dabney Coleman "CSI: Miami" with David Caruso "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch" with Melissa Joan Hart and Caroline Rhea and also the lengthy-running comedy "Married With Children."His most broadly acclaimed credit, however, is casting all 201 instances of the famous series "The X-Files," starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. Millikan started his casting career in 1987 like a casting assistant around the hit Television show "Empire."Actorfest LA, that is introduced for you by Back Stage, the Actor's Resource, will occur on Saturday, November fifth in the California Market Center in downtown La. To assist kickstart your job, Actorfest provides more than 24 exclusive Training courses Casting Calls Meet & Drops with Top Casting Company directors a Networking Caf as well as an enormous Exhibit Hall, at which you'll talk with acting instructors, coaches, schools, headshot photography enthusiasts, and much more suppliers who can help you flourish in your job.To join up for Actorfest LA, check out actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com. To learn more, visit world wide web.ActorfestLA.com. While you register, make the most of our special limited-time subscription offers.Enjoy your entire day at Actorfest! Four Casting Company directors Help Break You into TV at Actorfest LA November 1, 2011 Within the Television Drama Casting panel at Actorfest LA, four amazing Casting Company directors -- with credits which include "Dirty, Sexy, Money," "Shameless," "Gossip Girl," and "Bones" -- train you the way to interrupt into TV.Need to know how you can burglary to television dramas? From co-stars to series regulars and from pre-read to network test -- top casting company directors discuss every side of television procedurals casting.Loudspeakers include (bios below): -- Mary Jo Slater, Casting Director-- John Frank Levey, Casting Director-- David Rapaport, Casting Director-- Ron Millikan, Casting DirectorTo sign up for this dynamic workshop, visit actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com.Proud casting achievements for Mary Jo Slater include William Friedkin's "Twelve Angry Males" for Showtime, starring Jack Lemmon, George C. Scott, and James Gandolfini and getting a C.S.A. nomination the DreamWorks feature "The Contender," starring Joan Allen, Shaun Bridges, and Gary Oldman as well as getting a C.S.A. nomination the CBS miniseries "Elvis," the ABC series "Commander-in-Chief," starring Geena Davis and Jesse Sutherland the Morgan Creek feature "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" the independent features "Come Morning Hours,Inch starring Ashley Judd and premiering at Sundance, and "Slipstream," starring Anthony Hopkins and also the ABC pilot of "Dirty, Sexy, Money."John Frank Levey continues to be famous for his casting use seven Emmy nominations. He's received four Emmy Honours for his casting work, two each for "ER" and "Free Airline Wing." Through the years, he's received many nominations and honours in the Casting Society of America as well as in 2009 was honored with CSA's Hoyt Bowers Award for lifetime achievement. He's focusing on "Shameless" for Showtime and "Southland" for TNT. Levey continues to be praised for his use stars with disabilities.David Rapaport designed a reputation for themself by casting the pilot for "Gossip Girl," that he was honored having a nomination for that exclusive Artios Award. He's since worked with on several films, including "Vacancy," "The Other people," "Promenade Evening," "Quarantine," "The Ultimate Destination," "Armored," "The Apparition," "Evidence," and "LOL."Rapaport also offers extensive experience of television, casting the series "Masters of Horror" (Showtime), "Fear Itself" (NBC), "Rockville CA" (WBTV), "Hard Occasions of RJ Berger" (MTV), "My Generation" (ABC), and four seasons of "90210" (the CW), and that he is constantly on the consult on "Gossip Girl," now in the fifth season around the CW.Additionally, Rapaport cast the aircraft pilots for that "Gossip Girl" spinoff (the CW), "My Generation" (ABC), and many lately, David E. Kelley's "Question Lady" (NBC). Rapaport is really a proud person in the Casting Society of America.Ron Millikan is casting the seventh season from the hit Fox series "Bones," starring David Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel "The Finder," a spinoff from "Bones" starring Geoff Stults and Michael Clarke Duncan and ABC Family's "Melissa and Joey" with Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence.Other credits range from the CBS drama "Shark," starring James Forest and Jeri Ryan "The Protector" with Simon Baker and Dabney Coleman "CSI: Miami" with David Caruso "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch" with Melissa Joan Hart and Caroline Rhea and also the lengthy-running comedy "Married With Children."His most broadly acclaimed credit, however, is casting all 201 instances of the famous series "The X-Files," starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. Millikan started his casting career later like a casting assistant around the hit Television show "Empire."Actorfest LA, that is introduced for you by Back Stage, the Actor's Resource, will occur on Saturday, November fifth in the California Market Center in downtown La. To assist kickstart your job, Actorfest provides more than 24 exclusive Training courses Casting Calls Meet & Drops with Top Casting Company directors a Networking Caf as well as an enormous Exhibit Hall, at which you'll talk with acting instructors, coaches, schools, headshot photography enthusiasts, and much more suppliers who can help you flourish in your job.To join up for Actorfest LA, check out actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com. To learn more, visit world wide web.ActorfestLA.com. While you register, make the most of our special limited-time subscription offers.Enjoy your entire day at Actorfest!

Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson's 'Adventures of Tintin' to Close Out AFI Fest (Exclusive)

Those who can't wait for The Adventures of Tintin to hit North American shores may have a shot at seeing the movie early, in just less than two weeks.our editor recommends'The Adventures of Tintin' Exclusive: Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson On the Making of the Film (Video)'The Adventures of Tintin': New Trailer Hits the Web PHOTOS: Steven Spielberg's 'The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn' The Steven Spielberg-directed and Peter Jackson-produced animated feature, already a hit in Europe, doesn't open domestically until Dec. 21, but it will make an early appearance in Los Angeles as the closing night film at AFI Fest on Nov. 10, according to sources. The 25th edition of the festival, produced under the auspices of the American Film Festival, has not yet announced its closing night feature, and declined comment on the prospect of Tintin. PHOTOS: 'The Adventures of Tintin' U.K. Premiere Blue Carpet Arrivals AFI Fest kicks off Thursday with the premiere of Clint Eastwood's J. Edgar, the J. Edgar Hoover biopic starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The festival runs until November 10 but has not yet officially announced its closing night film. Tintin, which is giving Spielberg some of his best reviews in years, played in its entirety at ShowEast, held last week. The movie grossed a fantastic $55.8 million since it began its international roll-out October 26.

Kirsten Dunst, Orlando Bloom Join Indie Feature Cities

Kirsten Dunst and Orlando Bloom have joined Clive Owen and Anil Kapoor in Cities, the international thriller being directed by Roger Donaldson. Matthew Metcalfe and Chris Curting are producing. The film is a cautionary tale about greed and ambition that takes place in the exuberant months leading up to the Dow Jones all-time stock market high. Fortunes, both big and small are put at risk as people around the globe gamble that the financial markets meteoric rise will continue. In NY, a hedge fund manager (Owen) has everything he wants money, sex and power, but he wants more. In London, a young couple just want to buy their first home, but it seems impossibly out of reach. In Mumbai, a cop fights against corruption between property speculators and his villainous colleague Seth (Kapoor). These stories will all dramatically collide in a world where the fortunes of individuals are interwoven with the lives of others across the globe they have never even met. Dunst and Bloom starred together in Cameron Crowe’s Elizabethtown.

Why the 'Heinous' Connection with Likely to Cinemas Could Get rid of the Film Industry

You most likely have no idea Bob Lefsetz, but when you relied around the decimated music business to earn a living, you sure would. His free e-e-newsletter, The Lefsetz Letter, is needed reading through for label professionals, A&R men, managers, publicists, bookers, and -- ok last one, music artists, the majority of whom are having to learn economic self-reliance since they have been abandoned/liberated through the traditional major-label system. Day in and day trip, Lefsetz preaches an easy message for making it through digital revolution: be in keeping with your art, provide the people what they need, and allow the money sort itself out. And today he's turning his focus on the film business. There is a simple reason Hollywood only has lately started to grapple using the type of challenges which have been shredding the background music business for any decade now: quality. Even just in this current climate of technological revolution, movies take a long time to download, even legally, and require a lot of space to keep. For the time being, a minimum of, Dvd disks (that has been enhanced cousins Blu-sun rays) still feel less crazy than Compact disks do. Additionally, it implies that -- unless of course you have the persistence of the monk and also the hardware of the hacker -- you are most likely not inclined to invest 36 hrs on Bit-torrent awaiting 'Fast Five' to download. But we all know that digital transfers and storage get simpler every single day. This is a temporary respite, not really a solution. And the same thing goes for theatrical gimmicks like three dimensional and IMAX. While so artists began to depend on live performances (and merchandise tables) for earnings, because you can't download an active interaction, Hollywood might be in a disadvantage about this score. Sure, movies look better around the giant screen, but it is still exactly the same movie, meaning the theater really needs to slay the family room when it comes to amenities, comfort, and sheer enjoyability. Will it? Go away, Bob: Visiting the cinema is really a heinous experience. Forget the possible lack of focus and also the sticky flooring, things i hate most concerning the cinemas may be the other patrons. Who talk and text and think they are within their living spaces. Hell, this is exactly why I wish to stay at home. If you are a teenager and you need to neck, if you wish to get free from your parents' purview, I recieve it. Or maybe you are a few with youthful children. But just about everyone has high quality exhibition systems within our houses. We'd rather begin to see the movies in your own home. But this does not comport using the interests from the galleries and cinemas, what exactly do many people do? STEAL The Films! And also the music business trained us this can't be stopped. You are able to play Whac-A-Mole, you are able to piss off your clients, however, you cannot win. At Moviefone HQ, we have been banging this drum pretty hard recently. Like we believe it is important. Last Thursday, we put together your 5 Best causes of not visiting the movies. Now you want to know: So what can theater proprietors caused by enhance the experience, and enable you to get to the films? [Photo: Alamy] 5 Explanations Why You Aren't Visiting the Movies See All Moviefone Art galleries » Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED

ABC's 'River' lands 'Paranormal' actress

FeatherstonThe "Paranormal Activity" reunion at ABC's "The River" just added yet another to the guest list, as franchise star Katie Featherston has arrived a recurring role around the drama series, which originates from "Paranormal" mastermind Oren Peli."The River" stars Bruce Greenwood as Emmet Cole, a wildlife expert and TV personality who gets lost deep within the Amazon . com, compelling his producer wife (Leslie Hope) and boy (Joe Anderson) to create on a mysterious and potentially deadly journey to locate him. Featherston will have an associate of the TV wildlife team within the Amazon . com on the multi-episode arc.Peli and the "Paranormal" collaborators Jason Blum and Steven Schneider are professional creating "The River" for DreamWorks TV and ABC Galleries. Jauma Collet-Serra directed the pilot, compiled by Michael R. Perry ("Paranormal Activity 2").Featherston, who rarely steps outdoors her safe place of haunted houses, can serve as the face area of the very lucrative fright franchise of-time, playing Katie within the horror trilogy, that has made a lot more than $450 million worldwide. The most recent installment made $54 million over its debut weekend, setting an archive for that greatest horror opening of-time. Thesprecently wrapped the indie pic "Shadow" with Amanda Righetti and can Estes.Featherston is repped by APA. Contact Shaun Sneider at shaun.sneider@variety.com

Trio Of True Blood Co-Executive Producers Sign Overall Deals With HBO

EXCLUSIVE: Three True Blood veterans, co-executive producers Alexander Woo, Raelle Tucker and Brian Buckner, have signed separate 2-year overall deals with HBO. Under the 2-year pacts, the three will continue as co-executive producers on the vampire drama for the upcoming fifth season. Additionally, the deals call for UTA-repped Woo and Tucker and CAA-repped Buckner to develop new projects for the pay cable network. (Woo, Tucker and Buckner may also stay with True Blood if the series goes to a sixth season.) All 3 have been with the show, created and executive produced by Alan Ball, since the beginning.

Icahn thins Lionsgate stake

The Carl Icahn era at Lionsgate is drawing to a quiet end, with the billionaire investor reducing his holding to about 1%. Icahn sold a block of nearly 3 million shares Wednesday, an informed source said. Last week Lionsgate completed its offering of 19.2 million shares of his stock at $7 a share, which had cut his stake to 3.1%. Lionsgate and Icahn had no comment about Wednesday's sale. The stock, which was up 4 to $7.05 in mid-session Thursday, has generated an average daily volume of 589,000 shares during the past three months. The offering completed an Aug. 30 settlement with Icahn and his son Brett Icahn. The Icahns and mini-major had announced that they were ending three years of battling in an agreement to sell the Icahn's 33% stake in the company at $7 a share via a series of deals totaling about $309 million. The settlement called for Lionsgate to buy back 11 million shares from Icahn at $7 a share and for Lionsgate director Mark H. Rachesky to purchase an additional 11 million shares from Icahn at $7 per share. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

IMDB Punished for $millions of for Revealing Actress's Age

The Net Movie Database (IMDb) might be the film industry’s encyclopedia of knowledge for filmmakers and stars, delivering a good amount of particulars concerning the films, past and provide, and individuals who make certain they're (or need to). But was the IMDb inside the wrong if the launched the legal ages of an actress/IMDb Professional user — and did that act warrant the $millions of suit she’s now advancing within the website? The Hollywood Reporter gets the legal scoop: The woman, who's mentioned being of Asian descent, states inside the complaint filed in federal court in Dallas they registered for your professional version of Internet Movie Database in 2008. Right after that, she observed the legal date of her birth was from her public profile. The complaintant thinks the website could obtain her information because in signing up to iMDb Professional, she was required to provide detailed personal and bank card information.Affixing a period to her title was dangerous, she states.“If the very first is classified as being ‘over-the-hill,’ i.e. approaching 40, it's very difficult with an up-and-coming actress, such as the Complaintant, to acquire are she's thought to low on from the ‘upside’ therefore casting company company directors, producers, company company directors, agents/managers, etc. don't leave her with the identical options, regardless of her appearance and talent,” the complaint states. Well, yeah — if IMDb Professional attracted her age from her bank card information and released it, that’s a biggie. Neglect the ageism and sexism ingredient that may have forfeit her work whatsoever, it seems as being a glaring privacy breach. The not named lady is suing for “breach of contract, fraud, and breach of privacy” with damages in the amount of $millions of, which is seeking a constraint order in the website. Actress Sues IMDb for $millions of for Revealing Her Age [THR]

TLC Buys Canadian 'Brides of Beverly Hills' Series

TORONTO - The Actual Average women of Beverly Hillsides on Bravo, make room.our editor recommends'Brides of Beverly Hills' Acquired for World Sale'Real Average women of Beverly Hills' Will get a Premiere Date and 2 'Unofficial' New Cast People TLC has acquired the Canadian-made Brides of Beverly Hillsides reality from indie Picture Box Distribution for any fall season berth. The 13 half hrs from Canadian producer Planetworks features luxurious consumers at Renee Strauss' trendy bridal boutique in Beverly Hillsides. The salon has outfitted such celebrity brides as Raquel Welch, Valerie Bertinelli, Jennie Garth, Louise Locklear and Paula Abdul. Brides of Beverly Hillsides airs on Slice in Canada. Toronto-based Picture Box supports the worldwide distribution privileges towards the Canadian show, excluding British Canada. Related Subjects Worldwide Bravo The Actual Average women of Beverly Hillsides

Vivendi to distribute Nfl Films homevid

Jordy Nelson as well as the Super Bowl champion Eco-friendly Bay Packers are featured inside an Nfl Films DVD salute which will be compiled by Vivendi. Nfl Films has pacted with Vivendi Entertainment being the exclusive distributor and internet internet marketer of Nfl Films' home theatre programming inside the U.S. and Canada. Agreement marks the first time the 46-year-old production division in the National football league grants or loans both digital and physical (DVD/Blu-ray) rights due to its home theatre business, in line with the joint announcement created by Craig Wolper, CFO of Nfl Films, and VE prexy Tom O'Malley. Incorporated within the multi-year deal, seven to 10 new Digital video disks will probably be released every year, beginning off getting a four-disc salute to last year's Super Bowl individuals who win, "Eco-friendly Bay Packers: Path to Super Bowl XLV." VE, a division of Universal Group Distribution, may even distribute the current Nfl Films DVD catalog, that includes a lot a lot more than 115 game game titles, including "America's Game: The Super Bowl Champions and finished Game Sets." Product will probably be offered by retail shops as well as on iTunes, Biggest Score CinemaNow and Vudu. "Through our extensive distribution network, we're able to offer compelling programming choices to Nfl fans -- everywhere and however they wish to enjoy the content," mentioned Yolanda Macias, VE's professional V . p ., purchases and business development. Added Wolper: "We are proud to begin a completely new partnership with Vivendi that may make really Nfl Films' videos available to our fans in places." Contact Steve Chagollan at steve.chagollan@variety.com

Cast preview of Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1

On tenterhooks for that November release of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1? Can't wait to see more of Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner and Robert Pattinson? Here's a brief taster to quell the monster inside you.Yes, the Twilight trio have appeared in a behind-the-scenes video that previews the first part of the finale.Most enlightening is Stewart's chat about her character's state of mind leading up to the wedding."There are few beats right before the wedding actually occurs that really send [Bella] into the anxiety that she brings into the ceremony, when she first starts walking down the aisle," Stewart told Entertainment Tonight. "There are a few looks from Edward that are just kind of unclear to her."After the stars get serious about their roles there's also some B-roll footage and on-set laughter that make this worth a peek.Check out their chat below...The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 opens on 18 November 2011.

Matt Damon, Michael Douglas to Star in HBO's Liberace Biopic

Michael Douglas and Matt Damon Michael Douglas and Matt Damon have been tapped to star in HBO Films' Liberace biopic. Behind the Candelabrawill star Douglas as Liberace in the project that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the relationship between the legendary entertainer and Scott Thorson, his younger, live-in lover (Damon). The project will be executive produced by Jerry Weintraub (Ocean's Eleven) and produced by Gregory Jacobs (The Informant!) and Susan Ekins (The Karate Kid series), with Steven Soderbergh (Traffic) directing the script by Richard LaGravenese (Water for Elephants). STORY: Michael Douglas Breaks Silence on How He's Doing "This is a story that's going to surprise a lot of people," HBO Films president Len Amato said Tuesday in announcing the casting. "It's funny, heartbreaking and always fascinating, and we are delighted that Jerry and Steven brought the film to HBO. With Steven at the helm, directing such accomplished actors as Michael Douglas and Matt Damon, this is a dream project for us." STORY: Michael Douglas Is Prepping for First Post-Cancer Role Production will begin next summer in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Palm Springs. For Weintraub, the project marks a reunion with the premium cable network that aired his biopic, His Way this year. "I've wanted to make a film about Liberace for a very long time, and after the amazing experience I had with HBO on His Way, I knew that they were absolutely the right place for this movie," he said. "I am thrilled that we have the incomparable Michael Douglas to inhabit the role of Liberace, as well as the exceptional Matt Damon to play the pivotal part of Scott Thorson. Putting these two fine actors in the creative hands of Steven Soderberg -- it doesn't get better than that." Soderbergh, meanwhile, noted HBO's "fearless approach" to original programming in bringing the project to the pay cabler. "From the inception of this project, we've had two priorities: getting it right creatively, and getting as many people as possible to see it," he said. For Weintraub, the project marks the latest in a string of small-screen work. CBS earlier this month picked up The Producer, a period drama project. set in the world of the evening news. Email: Lesley.Goldberg@thr.com Twitter: @Snoodit Matt Damon Michael Douglas

Beyonce Opens Up About Waiting To Get Pregnant, Keeping Her Marriage Strong

First Published: October 11, 2011 10:10 AM EDT Credit: Harper's Bazaar NY, N.Y. -- Caption Beyonce on the cover of Harpers Bazaars November 2011Beyonce is pregnant with her first child, and the usually quiet-about-her-personal-life singer opened up about why she waited to have children. It was important to me that I gave myself time to focus on becoming the woman I want to be, building my empire, my relationship, and my self-worth, before I became a mother, she told the November issue of Harpers Bazaar. Now God has blessed us with the ultimate. And as she prepares to enter motherhood, reportedly in February 2011, the singer, 30, said she has reached a point in her life where she is full of confidence. I am finally at the stage in my life where I am not so concerned with other peoples opinions about my life decisions, she told the magazine. It is so liberating to really know what I want, what truly makes me happy, what I will not tolerate. I have learned that it is no one elses job to take care of me but me. The Run The World performer has spent years not talking about her relationship with husband Jay-Z, whom she married in 2008, but she broke her silence to the magazine, explaining how they keep their romance strong. We focused three years on our marriage and found that it brought us an even stronger bond and connection, the singer said. But like anything great and successful in your life, marriage takes hard work and sacrifice. It has to be something both you and your husband deeply want. For more with Beyonce, including photos and behind-the-scenes video, visit HarpersBazaar.com. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

News Corp. Urges Shareholders to Vote for Its Board Nominees, Citing Performance, Governance

NY - Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. on Tuesday urged its shareholders to vote for its slate of 15 board members amid growing pressure from investor advisory firms to vote against many of the entertainment conglomerate's directors at its annual meeting next week. It also urged shareholders to vote for the approval of the company's executive compensation in an advisory vote to be held next week. On Monday, Institutional Shareholder Services recommended that investors vote against chairman and CEO Murdoch, his sons Lachlan and James Murdoch and others who are nominated for a board seat again. Overall, it opposed 13 of 15 board candidates. It also criticized top executives' compensation. Observers have highlighted that the Murdoch family and its allies control about half the shareholder vote, meaning that a lack of shareholder support for directors at next week's meeting is likely only to be symbolic. "Certain proxy advisory firms, including ISS's Proxy Advisory Services, have issued reports containing voting recommendations on our director nominees and on the advisory vote on executive compensation that we vehemently disagree with," News Corp. said in a communication contained in a regulatory filing on Tuesday. It listed five points to support its arguments. Discussing its directors, it cited "strong company performance" amid a "world economy struggling with uncertainty" and argued that "all of our director nominees are outstanding board members who are focused on corporate governance." The company also said its board is full of "sophisticated, world-class directors." In a further explanation, it highlighted: "The majority of the director nominees are independent under NASDAQ listing rules and are very experienced and well qualified to serve News Corporation effectively." On the compensation issue, News Corp. also made two points. It said that "our CEO's compensation is aligned with performance." In addition, president and COO Chase Carey has an employment agreement that "increased the total portion of his compensation opportunity that is linked to performance and resulted in a stronger pay-for-performance model," News Corp. said. The conglomerate also discussed the phone hacking and closure of the News of the World. "News Corporation has already taken decisive actions to hold people accountable and will take all prudent steps designed to prevent something like this from ever occurring again," it said. News Corp. also confirmed previous reports that its Management& Standards Committee is "conducting an internal investigation of the three other titles at [U.K. newspaper unit] News International." "Your vote is important," News Corp. concluded its appeal. "Thank you for your ongoing support of, and continued interest in, News Corporation." Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Rupert Murdoch News Corp.

Lovefilm ink Xbox 360 360 offer U.K., Germany

LONDON -- Web streaming service Lovefilm has struck a deal with Microsoft to supply its films and tv shows with the Xbox 360 360 Live platform inside the U.K. and Germany. The Lovefilm Player was already available via PC, iPad, Ps 3 and Internet-connected televisions. Beneath the deal, Lovefilm will finish in the official Xbox 360 360 Live integrated company, with clients capable of access content while using the Kinect for Xbox 360 360 360 motion controller. "We are proud to sign up Microsoft's expansion into the entertainment space, and certain that it'll fuel our ambition being Europe's greatest membership entertainment service," mentioned Lovefilm Boss Simon Calver. Lovefilm, which rents Digital video disks by publish additionally to streaming content on the internet within single subscription deal, has recently been strongly growing its library by exclusive deals inside the pay TV window with Uk independent entrepreneurs for instance eOne, which releases the "Twilight" franchise, and Studiocanal, the business behind "Mess Tailor Soldier Spy." Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Tiger Woods Signs Rolex Endorsement Deal

NEW YORK - After losing a slew of endorsement deals following an infidelity scandal and a form low, golfer Tiger Woods has signed a new such deal with watchmaker Rolex in a potential sign that he may be starting to turn the tide on the sponsorship front. It is his first major deal since his sex scandal. The endorsement deal, reported by the Wall Street Journal, was promoted on the company's Web site as of early Wednesday evening where Rolex said Woods was joining "the family of Rolex ambassadors" who are chosen for talent, perseverance and passion for the sport. Financial terms weren't disclosed, but the Journal said experts believe Rolex got the Woods deal at a discount. AT&T, Accenture, Gillette and watchmaker Tag Heuer are among the brands that have previously ended their endorsement relationships with Woods. Before the scandal, the golfer made around $90 million a year from his promotional deals and ranked as the most powerful endorsement figure in sports, according to the Journal. Under the headline "Rolex and Tiger Woods: A Partnership for a New Challenge," the watch company explained the new relationship this way on its Web site: "This association pays tribute to the exceptional stature of Tiger Woods and the leading role he plays in forging the sport's global appeal. It also constitutes a joint commitment to the future." The company added: "Rolex is convinced that Tiger Woods still has a long career ahead of him and that he has all the qualities required to continue to mark the history of hold. The brand is committed to accompanying him in his new challenges." The Journal said that earlier this year, Woods signed with a small Japanese company to endorse a muscle pain heat rub, and he is working on a deal to replace the AT&T logo that used to be seen on his golf bag with a smaller company. The news comes on the eve of Woods' return to competitive golf at the Frys.com Open outside San Jose, Calif. The injury-plagued Woods never plays this late in the season on the PGA Tour, but he needs a tune-up to get ready for the Presidents Cup in November. E-mail: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Tiger Woods

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Chris Pratt Had a Perfectly Good Reason For Giving His Cat Away on Twitter

“Bottom line, and not that this is any of your fucking business weirdos, but my wife and I want to start a family and we ABSOLUTELY CANNOT have an animal that shits all over the house. Sorry. If you are a parent you will understand. And if not, that probably explains why you have such a hard on for cats. Just sayin’.” And that, Internet, is why Moneyball star Chris Pratt gave up his 15-year-old cat Bella for adoption on Twitter. The actor ultimately gave Bella to a Twitter user named Meghan who is a “perfectly reasonable, sweet and friendly cat lover.” Pratt’s wife is What’s My Number? star Anna Faris. [ChrisPratt.com]

Angarano books 'English Teacher'

After romancing Uma Thurman in "Ceremony," Michael Angarano is dealing with another indie comedy's youthful romantic lead, as he's set to star opposite Julianne Moore in Craig Zisk's "The British Teacher."Artina Films is creating the pic, which compiled by Serta and Stacy Chariton.Moore stars like a senior high school British teacher whose existence is upended whenever a former student returns to her small town after failing like a playwright in NY. Angarano will have the sensitive scribe, who the protag finds herself falling for.Nathan Lane co-stars within the pic, that is being created by Artina's Naomi Despres, Robert Salerno and Matthew Chausse, in addition to Ben LeClair. Ron Curtis is professional creating and Kim Fox of Inferno Entertainment is handling worldwide sales.Angarano, who lately wrapped the Juno Temple-brought indie "The Brass Teapot," next stars in Steven Soderbergh's "Haywire." Additionally to Kevin Smith's "Red-colored Condition," thesp lately made an appearance in Fox Searchlight's "The skill of Barely Making It.InchAngarano is repped by UTA. Contact Shaun Sneider at shaun.sneider@variety.com

ITV Galleries ink 'Best House' deals

CANNES -- ITV Galleries & ITV Galleries Global Entertainment has came to the conclusion new commissions because of its reality format "May the very best House Win" in Europe and Canada. Shaw Television in Canada has commissioned a 13-episode series to become produced by local factual specialist Proper Television. "May the very best House Win" will bow on HGTV Canada funnel at the end of 2012. In Europe, Belgium's VTM has registered for 2 series, each that contains four episodes, which is created by Endemol for transmission later this fall. ITV Galleries France, located in Paris, has completed production on the pilot of "May the very best House Win" for national web France2. Within the show, four completely different home owners alternate to host an excursion of the houses, with organizations giving their opinions around the house within the type of another ITV Galleries format "Come Dine Beside Me.Inch Paul Buccieri, controlling director, ITV Galleries Worldwide, stated: "You will find there's strong good reputation for starting daytime formats within the U.K. and moving them out worldwide. "Shows like 'Come Dine With Me' and 'Four Weddings' haven't only been created all over the world, in most cases they've graduated from daytime to primetime and gone onto become coming back hits for local tv stations. "'May the very best House Win' is every bit versatile and that we hope this fantastic show will end up another high volume staple for the broadcast clients." A nearby version from the show continues to be created in The country by ITV Galleries The country for Antena 3. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Seth Rogen Marries Longtime Girlfriend

Lauren Miller, Seth Rogen Seth Rogen has wed girlfriend Lauren Miller, Us Weekly reports. The couple was married at the Kunde Estate in Sonoma, Calif. Knocked Up co-stars Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann attended, along with Jonah Hill, Craig Robinson and producer Judd Apatow. See who else has gotten married this year "The wedding was more laughs than anything else," one guest told the magazine. "Every other line was a joke and the crowd couldn't contain their laughter. It was nonstop fun!" Rogen, 29, proposed to Miller, a writer, last fall. He shared the story on Conan about shocking Miller with the ring while she was undressed. Rogen's latest film, 50/50, opened Friday to strong reviews but weak box office.

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Clerkenwell, BBC America ink pact

LONDON -- U.K. shingle Clerkenwell Films is to develop content for BBC America as the cable net beefs up original production. The non-exclusive deal involves funding potential projects over what BBC America's owner, BBC Worldwide, indicated was an 18-month period. BBC Worldwide said the initiative is aimed at conceiving series that will resonate with BBC America's audience. Additionally, Worldwide will seek co-production partners for commissioned shows. BBC America's first original scripted show -- period crime saga "Copper" from Cineflix Studios -- was announced in June.BBC America's general manager Perry Simon said: "Moving into original production is a big step for BBC America, and one that we hope can bring interesting new opportunities for U.K. indies."To stand out in this hugely competitive market we need access to the most creative talents and original shows in the world." Clerkenwell specializes in drama, and enjoyed a U.K. hit with "Misfits," which was commissioned for youth-skewed web E4, and won a BAFTA for best drama series. The show focuses on a group of teen offenders who gain super powers following a freak electrical storm.There has been a lot of speculation regarding a U.S. version of "Misfits," including reports that ABC is close to green lighting a U.S. adaptation. Clerkenwell's CEO Murray Ferguson added: "Having the chance to kick-start the development of shows that we know from the outset are targeted at a global audience is a really invigorating prospect." Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

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Eastbound & Down's Danny McBride Is really a Father!

Danny McBride Danny McBride and the wife, Gia, welcomed their first child, People reviews. Boy Declan George was created Monday, Sept. 26 in La, Calif. "Mother and boy (and father) do great," his repetition told playboy. Take a look at our fall preview for art galleries, scoop, premiere calendars and much more! McBride, 34, and Gia married in October 2010. McBride will next be observed in the 3rd season of baseball comedy Eastbound & Lower, which 35mm slides into Cinemax this The month of january.

Drafthouse snags rights to 'Comin at Ya! 3D'

Drafthouse Films, the film distribution arm of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, has acquired North American rights to "Comin at Ya! 3D" following the premiere of the restored film at Fantastic Fest. Drafthouse announced Thursday that it would re-release "Comin at Ya! 3D" next year. The original film -- replete with flying arrows and lunging snakes -- was released in 1981 as the first-ever 3D spaghetti Western, by co-writer/producer/star Tony Anthony and Italian genre director Fernando Baldi. "We felt that Drafthouse Films, with their young and aggressive leadership, combined with a new model for 3D distribution, gave us the best chance to reach both longtime fans of the film and new audiences," Anthony said. Drafthouse Films launched a year ago with Chris Morris' comedy "Four Lions." Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

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Trammell joins 'Long Time Gone'

Sam Trammell of "True Blood" has joined the cast of indie drama "Long Time Gone" opposite Virginia Madsen and Anthony LaPaglia.Smokewood Entertainment is producing "Long Time Gone," with co-founder and producer Sarah Siegel-Magness ("Precious") making her directorial debut.Production began Sept. 12 in Los Angeles. Trammell began work Monday."Long Time Gone" also stars Zach Gilford, Amanda Crew and newcomer Graham Rogers. Karen McCullah ("The Ugly Truth") wrote the screenplay based upon April Stevens' novel "Angel, Angel."The story follows a broken family who must cope when the husband (played by LaPaglia) leaves his wife, (played by Madsen) for another woman. Their sons have no idea what to do when their mother refuses to come out of her bedroom for days on end which turns into weeks.Trammell plays an easy-going landscaper who hires one of the sons as a day laborer and befriends his distraught mother.Bobbi Sue Luther, Gary Magness ("Precious") and screenwriter McCullah are producing. Andrew Sugerman and Seth Jaret are executive producing.Shooting will continue until Oct. 25. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

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China to likely bring 'Flowers' to Oscar

SHANGHAI - Zhang Yimou's WW2 epic "Flowers of War," which stars Christian Bale, looks set being China's entry for your foreign-language Oscar, as Ann Hui's "A Simple Existence" will probably be Hong Kong's entry for your award.Liu Chun, a spox for your worldwide part of China's Film Bureau, mentioned the best decision might be made on Friday, but "Flowers," formerly titled "Heroes of Nanjing" and China's most pricey movie ever getting a financial budget of $93 million, was really the only candidate to represent China inside the category.Pic handles the Rape of Nanking, the massacre that adopted the invasion of China's war time capital, now referred to as Nanjing, on 12 ,. 13, 1937.The pic will screen for just about any week from Sept. 24 to fulfill the Oscar screening requrirements.The "Boost the Red-colored-colored Lantern" and "Red-colored-colored Sorghum" helmer is wanting that "Flowers" will open china biz overseas."A Simple Existence," which acquired kudos within the Venice Worldwide Film Festival, remains selected as Hong Kong's contender for your foreign-language Oscar.Hui's film features Andy Lau just like a film producer, and veteran thesp Deanie Ip acquired Venice's Coppa Volpi for top actress on her behalf role inside the pic."A Simple Existence" may also be acquiring a small theatrical release to fulfill the Oscar needs. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Emmys where it begins for your TV biz

The big syndie deal for Modern Family, which won large within the Emmys, has aided fuel trading within the broadcasts nets. One of several versions involving the Oscars as well as the Emmys might be the timing in the ceremony concerning the industry's work cycles.The Academy awards mark the culmination of filmdom's difficult honours-season gantlet, however, if it's all regulated controlled over, bizzers can generally relax, no less than for some time. For your TV troops, the Emmy Honours come at the outset of the race -- not only while using onslaught of fall series premieres however the chase for warm development characteristics for the next season.This year, there is no resting following a Emmys since the nets dive in to a shootout including greater than 24 new series preems through the following day or two (which doesn't even count midseason). As well as the development derby is on the strong and competitive start. Numerous projects have showed up substantial obligations, including some from authors who haven't yet showed up at boldface title status.Industry affiliates say there's plenty of battling between NBC and ABC particularly going after the identical projects, an engaged that has aided bid in the industry for everyone (for the delight of tenpercenters). Fueling the largess within the systems might be the rebound inside the distribution market as evidenced with the megabucks deals commanded by Emmy darling "Modern Family" and "The Big Bang Theory," additionally to such dramas as "Hawaii Five-" and "Castle."The selling season got on a bit of the late start since the creative community anxiously anxiously waited for Bob Greenblatt's new team to organize -- Jennifer Salke at NBC Entertainment and Bela Bajaria at Universal TV. Greenblatt and also the lieutenants bring a good amount of strong associations inside the creative community. There are many goodwill around toward the completely new regime, and you'll find plenty of people depending around the extended-term upside of helping them begin the primetime turnaround within the Peacock.Once the selling season got going, it absolutely was as if pitches and spec scripts and remake/reboot concepts were shot from the cannon. Extended gone might be the protocol of drama pitches going first then comedy. Now it seems being everything at one time, as well as the selling craze is not limited to tv producers. TNT, USA, Lifetime, Foreign exchange together with other cablers are actually busy getting scripts and greenlighting aircraft aircraft pilots.There are many exciting projects available," mentioned Warner Bros. TV Group topper Bruce Rosenblum. "You've quite recent senior management at a few the systems (ABC and NBC) that are anxious to do this season. There are many excitement in regards to the (TV) business at this time around.InchDealmaking is increasingly more complicated, particularly for shops like Warner Bros., last century Fox TV and also the new the new sony Pictures TV that play in the area in shopping projects along with other systems. (If Greenblatt has his way, Universal TV will probably be because fray by next season.) Wrangling inside the extended-term control of Web streaming rights will be the next frontier of fierce fighting for nonaligned systems and art galleries, biz vets predict, as people rights are starting to yield actual money. At this time around in the development cycle, however, really the only component that really matters may be the standard in the work. All people put pilot orders and hefty penalties won't mean much come The month of the month of january unless of course obviously professionals believe the script might be well worth the gamble. In the event that's the situation, people large upfront deals can ensure a larger pilot budget together with a far more generous license fee when the project go completely with a series order. Otherwise, the penalty might be the price to conduct business, and usually, individuals funds migrates to home based business involving the same internet and studio.No a person's can make an undesirable pilot due to the fact there's a problem,Inch mentioned a higher TV talent repetition. "People large obligations don't help much the (creatives). They basically matter if the allows you to produce a better pilot." Contact Cynthia Littleton at cynthia.littleton@variety.com