Kodak adds film stock for location shooting

Even as digital image capture continues to become dominant in filmmaking, Eastman Kodak is pushing the limits of film. The company has added a new daylight stock to its Vision 3 Film family. The new stock, Vision3 50D Color Negative Film 5203/7203, integrates the company's advanced Vision 3 imaging technology into a fine-grained, daylight-balanced film intended to give filmmakers more options and flexibility for shooting on location. "This addition to the Vision3 Film portfolio is designed to give extraordinary creative latitude to cinematographers working in daylight conditions," said Kim Snyder, prexy of entertainment imaging and VP, Eastman Kodak Co. "This new stock - the finest-grained negative on the market - offers a combination of unmatched resolution, reliability, and proven archival capabilities."50D is a low-speed film optimized for capturing images in natural or simulated daylight conditions. The new stock incorporates Vision3 technology advancements, like Dye Layering Technology and sub-micron imaging sensors in order to deliver extended highlight latitude - as much as two stops of additional overexposure - as well as better signal-to-noise performance, especially in over- and under-exposure. It also offers improved color consistency over the entire exposure range, per Kodak, which added that all these features provide cinematographers with the ability to shoot challenging high-contrast exteriors, and follow the action into bright highlight scenes without loss of image discrimination.Cinematographer Blake Evans ("The Middle"), who tested the film, said: "I wanted to stress-test the contrast capabilities of new 50D stock, so we shot a few scenes in a high-contrast exterior situation that included bright whites and shadows. I exposed normally, and followed the actors' faces as they moved from the sun into the shadows. The negative was processed normally, and when I saw the footage as DVD dailies, I found the grain a tiny bit tighter in the dark toe of the shadows."That says a lot, considering the 50D emulsion was already a super fine grain," he added. "This new 5203 stock dug deep into the shadows and maintained neutral colors, especially in the skin tones. There was also no biasing of the whites in the bright highlights."Vision 3 stocks have also demonstrated clear benefits to the post-production process, per Kodak, in that their ability to render finer-grain images in underexposed areas produces cleaner film-to-digital transfers. The emulsions also process light more efficiently and record greater detail in the highlights, the company added, which enables cinematographers and their colorists to extract more image information during digital post-production without introducing artifacts. According to Kodak, 50D possesses all the necessary qualities that allow a color negative film to perform well in film recorders, including its extremely fine grain, high resolution, excellent latent image keeping and reciprocity characteristics, as well as a low level of unwarranted crosstalk between the color channels."We understand that digital cameras are improving, but the industry holds film as the benchmark by which they are all judged," says Snyder. "This new emulsion is another example of Kodak's dedication to filmmaking technology and ongoing innovation." * * * Kodak also underscored its commitment to film by naming Benedict Salazar Olgado as recipient of the 2011 Kodak Fellowship in Film Preservation, an award established to foster and support the next generation of preservationists and archivists in the industry. Olgado receives a cash scholarship from Kodak that is administered by AMIA (Association of Moving Image Archivists), in addition to a four-week summer internship next year, organized by PRO-TEK, a Kodak company that operates world-renowned film and video preservation vaults, and provides inspection and restoration management consultation services. The internship will include a comprehensive agenda with training at PRO-TEK, Chace Audio by Deluxe, and FotoKem's digital and photochemical lab. Kodak initiated the program 12 years ago, and 11 of the past recipients are now working in the field at such organizations as the Library of Congress, NARA (National Archives and Records Administration) and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. "We designed the Kodak Fellowship program to augment the education that future preservationists and archivists receive," says PRO-TEK veep Rick Utley. "They gain exposure to the industry, hands-on experience and the opportunity to meet many people in a thriving and passionate community. It's a great way for Fellows to evaluate next steps for their careers."A native of the Philippines, Olgado will receive a master's degree in moving image archiving and preservation from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in May 2012. He gained experience as a senior administrator at the Southeast Asia Pacific Audiovisual Archive Association and worked on projects with UNESCO and the Anthology Film Archives. His long-term goal is to become an active part of the international preservation community and safeguard audio-visual legacies. "This recognition affirms and strengthens my dedication as a budding audio-visual archivist," said Olgado. "I'm looking forward to developing my skills this summer, and am honored to belong to a roster of individuals who have gone on to become key players in the field." Contact Peter Caranicas at peter.caranicas@variety.com

Gerard Butler Hospitalized After Surfing Accident

Gerard Butler Gerard Butler was hospitalized Sunday after being held underwater by some large waves while filming a surfing scene for the movie Of Men and Mavericks, according to The Associated Press.Photo gallery: The breakout stars of 2011The incident occurred at Mavericks, a surfing spot in Northern California notorious for its dangerous conditions and massive waves. The 42-year-old actor was not seriously injured, but he was taken by ambulance to Stanford Medical Center for examination and was released shortly after.Butler was with competitive surfers Greg Long, Zach Wormhoundt and Peter Mel when he was taken underwater by several waves. A safety patrolman on a jet ski came to Butler's rescue.Check out the rest of today's newsAccording to Wormhoudt, Butler was shaken up. "Everything he was doing was within reason," he said. "We took like four to five pretty big waves on the head. Basically there's nothing you can do. It was intense for myself, and I've been through a lot out there."Of Men and Mavericks is set to be released in October 2012.

New Movie Reviews: 'Mission: Impossible,' 'Sherlock Holmes,' 'Alvin and the Chipmunks' Sequels Hitting Theaters

This article appeared in the Dec. 23 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommendsOscar Dog Showdown: Who's Cutest? 'The Artist' Tops Golden Globe Nominations 'Hugo' and 'The Artist' Top the Broadcast Film Critics' List of Nominations With 11 EachYoung Adult: Film Review A round of a-paws, please! These four-legged thespians may be ineligible for an Academy Award, but their performances in the Oscar contenders of the season are stealing the show. The season's awards contenders feature numerous animal stars, from the horses of War Horse to the feline star of Puss in Boots. But these four dogs have gone above and beyond with their on-screen performances this year. PHOTOS: Oscar Dog Showdown: Who's Cutest? Uggie, 9 | The Artist His barks might all be silent, but the energetic Jack Russell, seen here playing with a toy Oscar, is one of the big stars of Michel Hazanavicius' tribute to the days before talkies. A seasoned performer -- his specialty is riding a skateboard -- Uggie also appeared this year in Water for Elephants. Says trainer Omar von Muller, who rescued him when he was headed for the pound: "He was a very hyper puppy, but he's now one of the best-trained dogs in the industry. Just look at the scene where he rescues Jean Dujardin from a burning building without missing a cue." Cosmo, 9 | Beginners This all-white long-hair Jack Russell, who previously appeared in Hotel for Dogs and Paul Blart: Mall Cop, is trained by Mathilde de Cagney, who knows a star when she sees one: She also trained the late Moose, who played the long-running role of Eddie on Frasier. "The hard thing in training a dog for a movie isA round of a-paws, please! These four-legged thespians may be ineligible for an Academy Award, but their performances in the Oscar contenders of the season are stealing the show. making his behavior look natural," says de Cagney. But that proved no problem for Cosmo, who not only tags along loyally beside Ewan McGregor but also has dialogue of his own thanks to director Mike Mills' clever subtitles. STORY: Golden Globe Awards Nominations Complete List Blackie, 3, Hugo He was one of three Dobermans in Hugo that portrayed the fearsome Maximilian, who patrolled the Parisian railway station alongside Sacha Baron Cohen's Inspector. Because Martin Scorsese shot in 3D, often panning 360 degrees, de Cagney, also his trainer, was sometimes costumed as a character in scenes so she could work with the dogs without destroying the illusion. Hummer, 4, Young Adult A compact Pomeranian, he is, by showbiz standards, a non-pro. Director Jason Reitman discovered the purse-sized pooch while Hummer was out on a walk on the streets of NY and convinced his owner to let him make his film debut opposite Charlize Theron. View more photos from THR's photoshoot with the top dogs of the awards season here. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Oscar Dog Showdown: Who's Cutest? Related Topics The Artist Beginners Young Adult Hugo

Nominations reaction: Denise Ream, 'Cars 2'

'Cars 2' "It was great to see that (the franchise) is still so popular, especially with fans around the world given that it was a global adventure. Being a huge fan of animation and to see it more widely recieved around the world is very gratifying."-- Denise Ream, producer, "Cars 2" Contact Justin Kroll at justin.kroll@variety.com

Happy 54th Birthday, Steve Buscemi! What's His Most Underrated Screen Moment?

Correct me essentially’m wrong, however it’s pretty sure that Steve Buscemi is amongst the globally loved stars from the generation. He vivified Fargo, gave Ghost World a soul, given Large Sea food some awesome reliability, ruled on 30 Rock (and Boardwalk Empire, I suppose), in addition to shown themselves a viable proxy for Paul Lynde since the voice of Templeton inside the Charlotte now now’s Web remake. That’s very difficult sneer to fill. These days we’re talking about Buscemi’s underrated work, the products that doesn’t percolate while using harsh vigor from the Coen Brothers and sisters classic. What’s your pick? Novelty helmet-eyed site visitors will realize that I toasted Buscemi’s uncredited role as Danny McGrath in Billy Madison throughout Bad Movies We Love To recently, nevertheless it’s too goddamn funny not to revisit here. As Billy (Adam Sandler) makes amends while using kids he tortured in secondary school, he finds that onetime loser Danny McGrath seems strangely well-modified. It’s another story once Billy dangles within the receiver, though, which we watch as Danny’s true character gurgles up within the netherworld. So, so strange and therefore unassailable within the gall. I laugh every single time as of this clip. What’s Buscemi’s most underrated moment? People who disagree with me at night will need to skip recess and apply glue to miss Lippy’s face.

Selena Gomez Dishes On Smelling Great For Attacking Young Boys, Invites Fans To Assist Create Her New Scent

First Released: December 7, 2011 6:15 PM EST Credit: Access Hollywood Caption Selena Gomez chats with Access Hollywoods Package HooverLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Selena Gomez is towards the top of her game and just Access Hollywood was on set as she posed inside a colorful water tank (putting on a gown!) on her new self-entitled scent, that will hit stores the coming year. Exactly what does Selena Gomez smell of? Access Hollywood Lives Package Hoover requested within an exclusive interview using the 19-year-old star. My perfume, at this time, I would like it to be really romantic, she told Package. I would like it to be sweet and complicated. Appears Selena has romance around the brain, as she and boyfriend Attacking Young Boys happen to be going strong for pretty much twelve months. How about your guy? Does Justin as if you to smell a particular way? Package requested. To tell the truth, thats what every girl thinks that they would like to wear some perfume for that boy that like in school or a crush, Selena stated having a laugh. Thats exactly what the primary factor is. Selena clearly wasn't keen to smell and tell, but she's letting her fans get involved with creating the scent, by voting at world wide web.selenagomezperfumes.com. Im creating the bottom of the scent and what Im doing is, Im inviting my fans that helped me to produce the top notes and stuff that type of get into it, she stated. Then would select the top fans and theyre likely to really enter into the lab beside me and pick and also the final scent. With this particular new project (one of her many), 2011 continues to be good towards the busy teen. But shes expecting 2012 to become better still as shes likely to be a large sister the very first time. Ive done this many wonderful things this season that Im very grateful for, but thats most likely the greatest blessing of all of them this season, she told Package. Im really excited for my mother and stepdad. Theyve anxiously waited for any very very long time. That child will probably be spoiled! she added. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Milla Jovovich Tweets A Spooky Holiday Greeting from the Resident Evil Set

Milla Jovovich is not just an arresting Fifth Element star and an above-average Project Runway judge — she’s also a roving reporter on the set of her own movie, Resident Evil: Retribution. Jovovich tweeted a holiday-themed video from “Camp Evil,” and her version of Santa Claus will haunt you until Christmas day. It’s beginning to look a lot like the antichrist! Something is just refreshing about watching a classy dame like Jovovich interact with an undead Santa Claus mannequin. “I can’t say anything because he’s dead, but…” [via @MillaJovovich]

Zoe Kravitz in Talks to Join Will Smith in Sci-Fi Action Adventure '1000 A.E.' (Exclusive)

Getty ImagesZoe Kravitz, left, and Sophie Okonedo Zoe Kravitz and Sophie Okonedo are in early talks to join Will Smith and Jaden Smith in 1000 A.E.our editor recommendsWill Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith Marriage Issues Denied by 'Fresh Prince' Co-StarDirector Shawn Levy Considers Exiting 'Fantastic Voyage' as Will Smith Courted to Star (Exclusive)Will Smith, Son Jaden to Costar in M. Night Shyamalan Sci-Fi Movie M. Night Shyamalan is directing Columbia's sci-fi action adventure, in which humans no longer live on Earth after it becomes inhospitable. The elder Smith is playing a hero, while Jaden is his son, considered a failure as a warrior. When the two crash-land on Earth, it is up to the son to save the dad. PHOTOS: Hollywood's 10 Highest-Grossing Actors If deals are made, Kravitz would play Smith's daughter, while Okonedo will portray his wife. Gary Whitta, Shyamalan and Stephen Gaghan worked on the script. The studio is eyeing an early 2012 production start with a release in June 2013. STORY: Will Smith, Son Jaden to Co-Star in M. Night Shyamalan Sci-Fi Movie Kravitz, who was last week honored with a rising star award at the Bahamas International Film Festival, appeared in X-Men: First Class as the mutant Angel Salvadore and stars in the indie drama Yelling to the Sky. Paradigm-repped Kravitz is due to shoot Fury Road, the fourth installment of the Mad Max movies, next year. British actress Okonedo, repped by UTA, was recently seen in U.K. shows such as Doctor Who and Criminal Justice and appeared in features such as Hotel Rwanda and The Secret Life of Bees. Email: Borys.Kit@thr.com Twitter: @Borys_Kit PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Hollywood's 10 Highest-Grossing Actors Jaden Smith M. Night Shyamalan Will Smith Zoe Kravitz Movie Casting

N.J. Stars Take DIY Approach to Filmmaking

Some actor founders of Feenix Films are actually using the industry's thorny gauntlet and were living to see their tale. From standard denials and wasted money to not successful endeavors from the own, they've seen all of the letdowns the acting world must offer. Instead of diminishing from each failure, these stars came back back, employing their difficulties as motivation for developing their New Jerseybased film production company. Properly named, Feenix Films isn't just a experience words addressing the indie necessity to "nix the chargeInch in film production. Furthermore, it signifies its founders' rebirth as stars and filmmakers after fighting for any very long time making it. Born in 2008 in the ashes of disillusionment, Feenix Films can be a venture designed to allow its individuals to create movies they may decide to see and turn in the negativity they experienced. David LaRosa, Janine Laino, Nick DeMatteo, and Kate McGrath had similar reasons for developing the business. In the darkly serendipitous way, each concurrently fought with and increased being annoyed by the entertainment industry. LaRosa and Laino had tried to construct their Granite Theater Company. Intended as an egalitarian theater community operating with no individual in charge, the venture was ultimately not effective. DeMatteo and McGrath experienced similar disappointments and denials. "Most of us have been burned formerly," states DeMatteo. LaRosa had put more earnings into his career than he felt he was getting away . from this. He appreciated thinking, "What about we I take everything money and hang it towards a movie?In . He recognized that films were becoming cheaper to produce which they'd the chance to attain increasing numbers of people than theater. LaRosa, therefore, needed the essential idea of a cooperative community of stars he'd while using Granite Theater Company and switched it into Feenix Films. He approached Laino, DeMatteo, and McGrath, who've been all for your idea. Feenix Films works becoming an ensemble, several about 30 like-minded creative people. Emulating models like the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, the founders strive to make a tight-knit, familial atmosphere. The expansion process typically begins getting a script put together with a part of the ensemble. Next, several people attempt to revise the script and begin casting, selecting their stars within the ensemble. Then its onto an even more formal reading through through and, finally, a production schedule and budget. To date, all features produced by Feenix Films are actually self-funded by and completed from the ensemble. To make the movies, each member brings something unique for the table helping to produce a complete crew. DeMatteo notes, "Many of us can be found in trying to become stars, and something benefit is the fact that people also all seem to possess capabilities that might help in different ways.Inch DeMatteo, for example, has offered as music supervisor on the couple of of the films, for instance "Lock-Load-Love" and "Nicky Newark."The ensemble functions as sounding board and support system, operating instead of the frequently-unforgiving atmosphere of Hollywood. "Most of us have been rejected," states LaRosa, who states he never outright dismisses anyone's ideas. The founders, self-known to "advocates for artists," be worried about being honest and kind for his or her ensemble. Notable is always that stars founded the business. Since the organization company directors inside the ensemble may also be stars, DeMatteo notes, "they respect what most of us have experienced.Inch Company company directors therefore are more open-minded, more ready to welcome advice and new ideas. Laino, for example, aided guide a scene with techniques the director, LaRosa, hadn't considered. Reaping helpful benefits from the simplicity of access and price of technology, Feenix Films has completed three features, "Lock-Load-Love," "Nicky Newark," and "DEALeR" (being released), and contains a fourth, "Clandestine," in preproduction. Once completed with the ensemble, the movies are promoted using a talent manager and through their Facebook page.The founders work challenging their films before as much audiences as you can, hosting special one-off tests and entering their be employed in festivals. (LaRosa needed home a decent mention inside the best narrative feature category within the La Reel Film Festival for "Nicky Newark" and contains been nominated for other honours.) Furthermore to honours and nominations, Feenix Films hopes to discover a distributor due to its films. Laino states the organization, just 3 years old, is prepared where "everything can occur.In . Although tremendous success is certainly a goal, LaRosa states that they are "greatly dedicated to the present.In . They wish to concentrate on the approaching discharge of "DEALeR" also to make "Clandestine" an amount bigger production in comparison to preceding films. Contentment while using present is understandable. These four people set to increase the risk for movies they wish to make, around the own terms, and they have frequently carried this out. "Our goal for that organization?" McGrath states. "We're living it." By Matt Maraynes December 1, 2011 The founding people in the Feenix Films ensemble. Some actor founders of Feenix Films are actually using the industry's thorny gauntlet and were living to see their tale. From standard denials and wasted money to not successful endeavors that goes for them, they've seen all of the letdowns the acting world must offer. Instead of diminishing from each failure, these stars came back back, employing their difficulties as motivation for developing their New Jerseybased film production company. Properly named, Feenix Films isn't just a experience words addressing the indie necessity to "nix the chargeInch in film production. Furthermore, it signifies its founders' rebirth as stars and filmmakers after fighting for any very long time making it. Born in 2008 in the ashes of disillusionment, Feenix Films can be a venture designed to allow its individuals to create movies they may decide to see and turn in the negativity they experienced. David LaRosa, Janine Laino, Nick DeMatteo, and Kate McGrath had similar reasons for developing the business. In the darkly serendipitous way, each concurrently fought with and increased being frustrated with the entertainment industry. LaRosa and Laino had tried to construct their Granite Theater Company. Intended as an egalitarian theater community operating with no individual in charge, the venture was ultimately not effective. DeMatteo and McGrath experienced similar disappointments and denials. "Most of us have been burned formerly," states DeMatteo. LaRosa had put more earnings into his career than he felt he was getting away . from this. He appreciated thinking, "What about we I take everything money and hang it towards a movie?In . He recognized that films were becoming cheaper to produce which they'd the chance to attain increasing numbers of people than theater. LaRosa, therefore, needed the essential idea of a cooperative community of stars he'd while using Granite Theater Company and switched it into Feenix Films. He approached Laino, DeMatteo, and McGrath, who've been all for your idea. Feenix Films works becoming an ensemble, several about 30 like-minded creative people. Emulating models like the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, the founders strive to make a tight-knit, familial atmosphere. The expansion process typically begins getting a script put together by area of the ensemble. Next, several people attempt to revise the script and begin casting, selecting their stars within the ensemble. Then its onto an even more formal reading through through and, finally, a production schedule and budget. To date, all features produced by Feenix Films are actually self-funded by and completed from the ensemble. To make the movies, each member brings something unique for the table helping to produce a complete crew. DeMatteo notes, "Many of us can be found in trying to become stars, and something benefit is the fact all of us seem to possess capabilities that might help diversely.In . DeMatteo, for example, has offered as music supervisor on the couple of of the films, for instance "Lock-Load-Love" and "Nicky Newark."The ensemble functions as sounding board and support system, operating instead of the frequently-unforgiving atmosphere of Hollywood. "Most of us have been rejected," states LaRosa, who states he never outright dismisses anyone's ideas. The founders, self-known to "advocates for artists," be worried about being honest and kind for his or her ensemble. Notable is always that stars founded the business. Since the organization company directors inside the ensemble may also be stars, DeMatteo notes, "they respect what most of us have experienced.Inch Company company directors therefore are more open-minded, more ready to welcome advice and new ideas. Laino, for example, aided guide a scene with techniques the director, LaRosa, hadn't considered. Reaping helpful benefits from the simplicity of access and price of technology, Feenix Films has completed three features, "Lock-Load-Love," "Nicky Newark," and "DEALeR" (being released), and contains a fourth, "Clandestine," in preproduction. Once carried out through the ensemble, the movies are promoted using a talent manager and through their Facebook page.The founders work challenging their films before as much audiences as you can, hosting special one-off tests and entering their be employed in festivals. (LaRosa needed home a decent mention inside the best narrative feature category within the La Reel Film Festival for "Nicky Newark" and contains been nominated for other honours.) Furthermore to honours and nominations, Feenix Films hopes to discover a distributor due to its films. Laino states the organization, just 3 years old, is prepared where "everything can occur.In . Although tremendous success is certainly a goal, LaRosa states that they are "greatly dedicated to the present.In . They wish to concentrate on the approaching relieve "DEALeR" also to make "Clandestine" an amount bigger production in comparison to preceding films. Contentment while using present is understandable. These four people set to increase the risk for movies they wish to make, on their own terms, and they have frequently carried this out. "Our goal for that organization?" McGrath states. "We're living it."

Alice Eve in Talks for Big Role in New 'Star Trek' Film

Alice Eve is in negotiations for a significant role in Paramount's second installment of the J.J. Abrams-shepherded Star Trek reboot.our editor recommendsParamount's 'Star Trek' Sequel to Open May 17, 2013Alice Eve Cast in 'Decoding Annie Parker''Entourage's' Vanity Fair Storyline: How Real Was It? The studio's 2009 Star Trek reimagination was a hit, grossing more than $380 million worldwide. Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto are slated to reprise their respective roles of Kirk and Spock. PHOTOS: Hollywood's New Leading Ladies The untitled sequel is set to open May 17, 2013. Abrams is again directing and producing through his Bad Robot shingle; the script is fromRoberto Orci, Alex Kurtzmanand Damon Lindelof. Eve is perhaps best known for her winning turn in the final season of HBO's Entourage; her other credits include Sex and the City 2 and She's Out of My League. She is currently filming the indie Decoding Annie Parker, which stars Helen Hunt and Samantha Morton. Little is known about the Eve's character beyond that the role is significant. The NY Post first reportednews of Eve's casting.Paramount declined to comment. Eve is represented by UTA, the U.K.'s Artist Rights Group and Untitled Entertainment. Email: Daniel.Miller@THR.com Twitter: @DanielNMiller Related Topics Paramount Pictures

Oxygen Developing Travis Wall Docuseries, Two More Unscripted Projects

Conrad Murray is set to appear in court at 8:30 a.m. PT for his sentencing following his involuntary manslaughter conviction in the death of Michael Jackson Nov. 7.our editor recommendsConrad Murray Documentary Gives MSNBC a Ratings Win in DemoMSNBC's Conrad Murray Documentary Raises New Questions About Checkbook Journalism (Analysis)Nancy Grace: Conrad Murray 'Should Have Gotten Murder One'Conrad Murray Verdict: What Michael Jackson's Family Is SayingConrad Murray Found Guilty in Death of Michael Jackson PHOTOS: 10 TV Trials That Shook the World: Casey Anthony, OJ Simpson, Rodney King The pop star's former doctor was found guilty after undergoing a six-week-long trial that was broadcast on HLN and detailed Jackson's final hours with Murray, who was using propofol, an operating-room anesthetic to treat chronic insomnia, that led to his death. PHOTOS: Hollywood's Notable Deaths The cardiologist's defense attorneys have asked that Murray receive probation, the Associate Press reports. They have said a jail sentence will render him unable to practice medicine and relegate him to a lifetime of ostracism. The prosecution have requested the maximum four-year jail term (which would likely be cut in half due to overcrowding), and want the doctor to pay Jackson's children, Prince, Paris and Blanket, more than $120 million in restitution. VIDEO: Dr. Conrad Murray Trial ER Doctor Testimony Before the sentencing, Jackson's family members will have the opportunity to speak, though none have announced plans to make a statement. The entertainer's mom, Katherine, told CNN Monday she hoped Murray would get the full punishment. She also said his children will not be present in court. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Hollywood's Biggest Real Estate Deals of the Week: Rihanna, Michael Jackson, David Schwimmer, Sue Mengers Related Topics Michael Jackson HLN Conrad Murray

Who Won The Sing-Off?

Ben Folds, Sara Bareilles and Shawn Stockman [Warning: This story unveils the champion of Season 3 in the Sing-Off. Read in the own risk.] After 16 groups and 11 times of competition, it came lower for the final three groups round the Season 3 finale in the Sing-Off Monday. Urban Method, from Colorado, CO, was the initial group removed after they sang Gym Class Heroes' "Stereo system system Hearts" and completed with judge Sara Bareilles on her behalf account new single "Gonna Overcome You." Watch full cases of The Sing-Off Dartmouth Aires, the 16-person club from Dartmouth College, was named runner-up. They chose "Paradise With The Dashboard Light" by Meat Loaf their final performance and labored with with judge Ben Folds on his classic chart-topper "Different.Inch The Aires might have been the initial college group to win the singing competition. Finally, host Nick Lachey named Pentatonix the winning quantity of The Sing-Off's third season. 5-person ensemble from Arlington, Texas walks away getting a The brand new the new sony recording contract and $200,000. Have a look at photos within the Sing-Off Before their victory lap, the crowd sang a rendition of David Guetta's "Without You" and needed on 98 Degrees' "Produce Just One Evening" with former 98 Levels lead singer Lachey. "I don't know items to say, It's surprising it," member Scott Hoying mentioned. "I'm so humbled to discuss happens with my close buddies. They're my family members. These were 16 amazing groups - It's surprising it's happened." You think the very best act won The Sing-Off?

Add Charles Grodin towards the List of subscribers Who're Pretending the Muppets are really the

I've got a soft place for 'The Great Muppet Caper.' It had been my first summary of the Muppets and is among the first 5 or 6 movies which i ever saw inside a theater. (And That I still own the collector glasses.) So, after i observed that Charles Grodin -- an actress whose work I terribly enjoy -- authored an item for Vulture about his encounters around the group of 'Caper,' I had been excited! But, obviously, it isn't an item about Grodin's actual encounters around the group of 'The Great Muppet Caper,' it is a composed story of methods he almost rested with Miss Piggy. Miss Piggy is really a puppet. This never happened. Guess what happens? I seem just like a grouch! It is a fine little tale and it is well crafted (and you will naturally like something that constitutes a mention of the 'Heaven Can Wait'). But, since the brand new movie has gone out and virtually everybody has seen it, are we able to with each other stop pretending they are living animals? Hell, even Jason Segel stopped carrying this out when he introduced the Muppeteers throughout the 'Saturday Evening Live' "great nights.Inch (Also, maybe at some point Grodin can give us some real behind the curtain particulars about 'The Great Muppet Caper. And, yes, possibly I am the only real person alive nobody wants these details.) [via Vulture] You are able to contact Mike Ryan on Twitter Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

'Kourtney & Kim Take New York' Hits Ratings Records With Season Premiere

E! Entertainment Viewers appear to be interested in the on-air dissolution of Kim Kardashian's marriage.our editor recommendsKim Kardashian Comments on First 'Kourtney & Kim Take NY' Episode'Kourtney & Kim Take NY' Premiere: 5 Things It Actually RevealedKardashian Christmas Special Reports Are 'Completely False,' Says E! RepKim Kardashian vs. 'Jersey Shore': The Frivolous Lawsuit Face-Off The new season of Kourtney & Kim Take NY, which chronicles Kim's brief married life to husband Kris Humphries, debuted big on E! Sunday night. PHOTOS: 19 of Hollywood's All-Time Shortest Marriages Preliminary ratings show that the series topped all previous openers, attracting just shy of 3.2 million total viewers during its broadcast. The previous run of the series, which bowed in January of 2011, debuted to 3 million viewers. Among those tuning in, 2.3 million were in the 18-49 demographic. That marked a 8 percent gain over the previous premiere. PHOTOS: Inside Kardashian Inc. Another big gain for the series was its showing in women 18-49. E! reports the episode ranks in the network's top 10 highest rated telecasts ever among the group. For adults 18-49, it's in the top 20. Previous Keeping Up With the Kardashians spin-off Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami averaged only 2.6 million during its second season premiere. That's not to say a showing this strong is unusual for the Kardashians. Different iterations of the series have hit recent highs, with the sixth season run of Keeping Up With the Kardashians ending on high ratings. The Sept. 5 finale averaged 3.3 million viewers, with a 15 percent gain in adults 18-49. PHOTOS: Kim Kardashian and Other Possible Hollywood Targets at the Golden Globes Most recently, the two-part special Kim's Fairytale Wedding: A Kardashian Event averaged 4.4 million viewers on its first night and 4 million during its second. The event earned respective 2.56 and 2.51 ratings in adults 18-49. The highest showing in franchise history, 4.7 million viewers, still belongs to the fifth season premiere of Keeping Up With the Kardashians in 2010. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Inside Kardashian Inc. Kim Kardashian Kourtney Kardashian TV Ratings Kris Humphries Kourtney & Kim Take NY

T.J. Miller Lands Lead In Foxs Comedy Pilot Little Brother, Lifts Projects Contingency

EXCLUSIVE: Actor-comedian T.J. Miller (ABC’s Carpoolers) has landed the lead in Fox’s comedy pilot Little Brother, lifting the contingency on the project written by Mike Royce, which will now proceed with production. Little Brother, a multi-camera comedy from 20th TV, 21 Laps/Adelstein Prods. and Hat Trick, is about a man who finds out that he has a half-brother (Miller) he never knew about who also happens to be an ex-con. The project was originally written by British scribe Fintan Ryan and rolled by Fox for the past 2 seasons until Everybody Loves Raymond alum Royce was brought in in September to write a new script, which netted a cast-contingent pilot order. Royce is executive producing with Adelstein, Michael Thorn, Becky Clements and Jimmy Mulville, while Ryan is co-executive producing. Miller, whose feature credits include Cloverfield, Our Idiot Brother and Yogi Bear, recently released comedy hip-hop album The Extended Play E.P. His stand-up specialNo Real Reason premiered 10 days ago on Comedy Central, with the accompanying DVD released last week. Here is a viral comedy video posted online earlier this month in conjunction with Miller’s stand-up special. He is with WME and 3 Arts.

First 'Live!' Episode After Regis Philbin's Departure Draws Good Ratings

"Live! With Kelly" Monday's Live! WIth Kelly with Kelly Ripa and guest co-host Jerry Seinfeld didn't miss a beat, drawing good ratigns amounts for your first episode in the re-named morning talker just days after Regis Philbin departed after 28 years.our editor recommendsRegis Philbin's Final 'Live!' Hits Ratings HighRegis Philbins Final Live! Episode Set to Internet Record RatingsBob Iger States He's in 'No Rush' to switch Regis Philbin on 'Live!'Regis Philbin's Last Show: Luminaries Avoid 'Live!' Host The episode, featuring site visitors Jason Segel and chef Jamie Oliver, shipped a 4. household rating inside the metered areas together with a couple.2 inside the women 25-54 demographic, up 38 percent and 57 percent compared to a year ago's comparable November ratings performance. At that time of your time, Live! wasn't any. one out of 14 in the top 15 areas that has been enhanced on its lead-in by 73 percent in many metered areas, including 13 of 15 top areas. Among the top 25 areas, Dayton released the finest household rating by getting an 8.9, with Atlanta (7.1) and Pittsburgh (6.6) following. Very high cost ticket, Monday's ratings are not even close to Philbin's final Live! episode that broadcast November. 18, which came a 7.3 household rating with 23 percent of houses tuning straight into see his farewell, according to preliminary metered-market amounts. To check on, that episode was under The famous host the famous host oprah Winfrey's final broadcast last May, which attracted in the 11.7 household rating with greater viewing levels overall at 4 p.m. once the famous host the famous host oprah broadcast. Seinfeld's last day co-hosting with Ripa is Wednesday. Neil Patrick Harris will need over for just about any days time beginning November. 28. Jerry Seinfeld TV Ratings Kelly Ripa Accept Regis and Kelly

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo Taps Hollywood for Re-Election Cash (Exclusive)

Even though the 2014 NY gubernatorial election is still two years away, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo is heading west to Los Angeles to bolster his campaign coffers,The Hollywood Reporterhas learned.our editor recommendsSteven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg Support Wendy Greuel For L.A. MayorBox Office Politics: The Movies and Stars Dems vs. GOPers Love (and Love to Hate) PHOTOS: 10 Hollywood Players That Will Make a Difference in the 2012 Elections The governor -- still fresh from his victory securing marriage equality in NY -- will arrive on December 2 for a reception and dinner co-hosted by Hollywood reliables Rob and Michele Reiner, Steve Bing, Katie McGrath and J.J. Abrams, Candy Spelling, Darren Star, Chris Albrecht, Kevin Huvane, and Laura and Casey Wasserman, among others. PHOTOS: 10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate The event will be held at the Los Angeles home of interior designer and White House decorator Michael S. Smith and his partner, HBO executive James Costos. (Smith and Costos, who also maintain a residence in NY, have become key Democratic fund-rasiers, bringing in more than $1 million for Barack Obama's re-election campaign. ) Cuomo has long been a Hollywood favorite, partially because of the family name. Industry politicos have held fund-raisers for every office he's ever sought.But this time around, it's different. It's much more personal, especially for the industry's marriage equality activists, who watched in awe as Cuomo masterminded NY's gay marriage law. PHOTOS: Actors Who've Played Politicians Hollywood political consultant Chad Griffin, one of the leaders in the fight against Prop. 8, is also hosting the gathering, along with Wallis Annenberg, Vanessa Williams and MPAA Chairman Christopher Dodd. L.A. mayoral candidates -- Wendy Greuel and Austin Beutner -- are also listed as sponsors. Tickets range from $1,000 for cocktails to $12,500 for dinner. Related Topics Politics

Duke Ellington's Cotton Club Parade

A NY City Center/Jazz at Lincoln Center presentation of a revue in one act. Conceived by Jack Viertel. Directed and choreographed by Warren Carlyle. Music director, Wynton Marsalis. Sets, John Lee Beatty; costumes, Toni-Leslie James; lighting, Peter Kaczorowski; sound, Scott Lehrer; production stage manager, Peter Lawrence. Opened Nov. 18, 2011, reviewed Nov. 19, 2011. Runs through Nov. 22. Running time: 1 HOUR, 25 MIN.With: Alexandria "Brinae Ali" Bradley, Everett Bradley, Andrew "Dr.Ew" Carter, Carla Cook, Nicolette DePass, Brandon Victor Dixon, DeWitt Fleming Jr., Carmen Ruby Floyd, Jared Grimes, Jeremiah "Showtyme" Haynes, Rosena M. Hill, Rachael Hollingsworth, Kendrick Jones, Monroe Kent III, Adriane Lenox, Christian Dante White, Shani "Virgo" Alston, Jason E. Bernard, Tanya Birl, Braxton Brooks, Christopher Broughton, Chanon Judson, Karine Plantadit, Monique Smith, Daniel J. Watts, Joseph Monroe Webb, Christian Dante White, J.L. Williams.The resplendently renovated City Center puts its best foot forward, with tap shoes, in "Cotton Club Parade." Wynton Marsalis and his Jazz at Lincoln Center team merge with the folks at Encores! for this breezy revue celebrating the sounds and styles of the Prohibition-era nitery which reigned over Harlem from 1924-1936. (While Duke Ellington is top-billed, almost half the score comes from white composers Harold Arlen and Jimmy McHugh.) Adriane Lenox and Brandon Victor Dixon commandingly lead the singers, the dance specialties astonish and the brass and reed players in Marsalis' orchestra stomp and wail and rock the newly-restored rafters. With no text to interrupt, this "Parade" features twenty-four musical spots in succession. Ninety-minute show is presented without an intermission, making it the briefest Encores! evening in memory. "Cotton Club Parade" is officially not part of that long-running subscription series, though, but what they call "An Encores! Special Event." There is some inevitable slow going here and there, but it is always picked up and rejuvenated by those blaring trumpets. Serving as something of a host is Dixon (an original cast member of "The Scottsboro Boys"). "I've Got the World on a String" sets the tone for the show, with Dixon charming us and seeming to be pulled aloft by a red helium balloon. Also on hand (with limited opportunities) is Everett Bradley, who leads a quartet in a fine rendition of "Digga Digga Doo." It is Lenox, a Tony winner for her dramatic turn opposite Cherry Jones in John Patrick Shanley's "Doubt," who altogether steals the show with two comedy songs, Sippie Wallace's "Women Be Wise" and Ethel Waters' "Go Back Where You Stayed Last Night." Lenox commands the stage like -- well, like Ethel Waters, delivering each entendre be it double or triple. Highpoint other than Lenox is Jared Grimes, dancing his way through his self-choreographed "Goin' Nuts." Evening's slight miscalculation is to fill the card with seventeen soloists; nobody gets more than two or three spots. While this brings us a fair number of strong performers, especially in the dance area, it doesn't allow anyone other than Lenox to standout. (Carla Cook, who sings three classics -- "Stormy Weather," "I Can't Give You Anything but Love" and "Ill Wind" -- doesn't quite land them, alas.) Sometimes, as in the instrumental "Braggin' in Brass," it's more than enough just to hear the band explode. Director-choreographer Warren Carlyle, an Encores! mainstay whose work is currently on view in "Hugh Jackman Back on Broadway" and "Follies," includes some impressive group numbers, recreating what one must suppose is the feeling of a Cotton Club floorshow. Many of the featured dancers, though, seem to be contributing their own steps. Sitting upstage center with his trumpet, Marsalis is one of the main attractions of the affair. "Cotton Club Parade" marks the first collaboration between Jazz at Lincoln Center and Encores!, which plan to give us a new show every two years. This one perfectly blends the strengths of the two orgs. Renovated City Center looks like a million bucks, or rather, $56 million. The City Center board made the gutsy decision to solve the cramped seating and sight line problems by reconfiguring the house and reducing the former capacity of 2,750 by some five hundred seats. All new seating and newly-raked risers in the mezzanine and balcony make this one of the most comfortable houses in town. A non-scientific survey indicates that City Center now has considerably more restroom stalls than the larger Carnegie and Avery Fisher Halls. The ornate decoration of the house -- originally Mecca Temple, built in 1923 by the Shriners -- has been gloriously restored, too. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

New 'Arrested Development' TV Series Would Go To Netflix

The Bluth family's master intend to reclaim the general public spotlight has moved several steps forward in recent several weeks, with possibly the greatest move of all of them made over the past weekend: new instances of "Arrested Development" are formally visiting Netflix. Deadline reviews that Netflix has outbid prominent pay cable systems to achieve the privileges towards the approaching year of "Arrested Development," a number of episodes which will apparently create a large-screen comeback. The precise quantity of episodes remains undetermined, and it is stated that specific episodes is going to be designated to a particular figures. (Please, someone get me that Tobias Funke episode As soon as possible!) "Everybody, ourselves incorporated, appears to seem like the Bluths left the party a little too early, stated "Arrested Development" co-producers John Grazer and Ron Howard inside a statement. Getting a set back from cancellation rarely happens, however, 'Arrested' always involved as unconventional because they get, therefore it appears totally appropriate this reveal that broke the mold is smashing it to pieces once more." Though no deals happen to be signed between twentieth century Fox TV and also the former "Arrested Development" cast, it's stated that everyone from Jason Bateman to Michael Cera have expressed their curiosity about the comeback. Quite simply, stop searching so blue: the Bluths are almost back! Discover the shocking truth below for the listing of "Arrested Development" wishes. Inform us that which you think about the "Arrested Development" news within the comments section as well as on Twitter!

New Zealand Vies for First Oscar Nomination in Foreign Language Category

This story first appeared in the Nov. 25 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommendsThe Orator (O Le Tulafale): Film Review'The Orator' Named New Zealand's First Foreign-Language Oscar Entry When Samoan director Tusi Tamasese first met New Zealand producer Catherine Fitzgerald at a Wellington film school, his greatest ambition was to "make a short film." Three years later, Tamasese, 36, is being hailed as a brave new voice in world cinema, and his debut feature, The Orator, is New Zealand's first-ever entry in the foreign-language Oscar race. Orator is pioneering in more ways than that: It's the first feature shot entirely in the Samoan language and the first filmed on the South Pacific island of Upolu. The story focuses on Saili, the son of the dead village chief who has been ostracized by the community because he is a dwarf. Quiet and unassuming, Saili is forced to defend his family and way of life with nothing more than words and the power of his voice. In doing so, he claims his rightful place as chief. Tamasese, who grew up on Upolu, the smaller of Samoa's two islands, says it was important that Samoa become a character in the film. "The landscape, people, culture, images, color, sound and feel of Samoa offer this story a new and unique perspective of life," he says. While he wrote the script in English and translated it back into Samoan, he says he was careful to maintain authenticity by shooting on location with a mostly untrained local cast. Capturing the rhythms and cadence of spoken Samoan were key to the film's plot, he adds, particularly the difference between the villagers' everyday musical language and the orators' more formal speech. "Formal oratory is part of Samoa's poetry and history," says Tamasese. "I wanted to showcase that as well as the language of everyday life." Tamasese's ambling, observant directing style, which he says is derived from traditional Samoan storytelling, has wowed international critics and festival audiences alike. Orator was showered with honors upon its premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, where it was named best film by the CinemAvvenire youth jury, took the top prize from Europe's art house cinemas association and received a special mention from the jurors of the Venice Horizons sidebar. And star Fiaula Sanote has picked up a best actor nomination from the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, to be handed out in November. Amid all of the plaudits, the soft-spoken Tamasese remains humble. He has an idea for his next project but doesn't want to give away details. His hope, he says, is that Orator will pave the way for a new Samoan style of filmmaking "that equally tells a Pacific Island story that the whole cinema world can understand and appreciate." Related Topics Oscars International Asia Oscars 2012

Olsen And Close Headline Therese Raquin

A brand new adaptation from the Zola novelThey're expected to become rivals for the following Best Actress oscar, but Elizabeth Olsen and Glenn Close will shortly be joining forces inside a latest version of Therese Raquin.Emile Zola's naturalist 1867 novel requires the eponymous orphan heroine being railroaded into an unsatisfied marriage by her overbearing aunt, Madame Raquin. Chained towards the feeble Camille, Therese starts a hostile affair using the dashing Laurent, nevertheless its future isn't a happy one, and there is murder afoot...Therese is really a meaty role for Olsen, following her breakout performance in Martha Marcy May Marlene. Likewise Madame Raquin is really a strong part for Close, who'll wish to capitalise on her behalf large "comeback" in Albert Nobbs (although Therese Raquin calls for her being paralysed for any large area of the run-time whether it remains faithful towards the novel).The adaptor is Charlie Stratton, an actress (he is at the Dirty Dancing TV series) switched author and producer, who began to chop his teeth like a director on series' like Everwood and also the Beautiful Existence. Therese Raquin is going to be his first gig as principal director on the large project, and shooting begins early in the year.

Lionsgate's 'The Hunger Games' to Screen in China

TORONTO - Lionsgate's The Hunger Games isn't due in theaters until March 2012, but the mini-studio is already ramping up for a global release on a number of fronts, including China.our editor recommendsLionsgate Posts Q2 Loss on Box Office Duds'Hunger Games': 8 New Posters From the Upcoming Lionsgate Movie (Photos)Jennifer Lawrence: 'Hunger Games Is Not Twilight' PHOTOS: 'The Hunger Games' Official Posters Lionsgate co-COO Joe Drake on Thursday told entertainment analysts during a morning call that a distribution deal for the major Asian market was in place. Asked if The Hunger Games will number among the 20 foreign films okayed each year by Chinese authorities for cinematic viewing, Drake answered coyly: "We will be released in China." At the same time, the indie studio's first movie in the trilogy of adaptations from Suzanne Collins' novels, set for theatrical release on March 23, 2012, will not screen in Imax theaters. Drake said other large format theaters owned and operated by major exhibition chains will screen The Hunger Games, but Imax will not follow suit due to a pre-existing agreement with a rival studio. The latest news on the upcoming release of The Hunger Games came as Lionsgate discussed its latest financial results with analysts. PHOTOS: 'The Hunger Games' First Look The big profits to be potentially spun-off from the upcoming March 2012 release and future sequels will go some way to shoring up confidence in Lionsgate's theatrical release slate, after it posted a $24.6 million Q2 2011 loss Wednesday due to poor box office from Conan the Barbarian, Warrior and Abduction. With much hinging on how The Hunger Games performs in theaters, Lionsgate is also eyeing an aggressive merchandising program to emerge alongside a lucrative movie franchise from the teen book trilogy. Vancouver-based Lionsgate has lined up Striker Entertainment, the same licensing and merchandising agency that handles the Twilight franchise for Summit Entertainment. "We have the same A-team on board. With their guidance, we will be strong in specialty stores, be very present, but not over-push merchandise going into the theatrical release," Drake told analysts. The strategy is to first establish the theatrical movie brand before advancing aggressively into big box retailers with The Hunger Games merchandise. Lionsgate executives also met with international distribution partners at the American Film Market last week, screening the trailer for The Hunger Games and discussing a global day-and-date release pattern. Drake insisted Lionsgate stands to profit handsomely if the upcoming March 2012 release lives up to expectations and out-performs in global theaters. "We were able to carve very favorable deals. Not only did we sell the title well, to help mitigate some risk, but we have enormous upside," he said. Related Topics International Lionsgate Hunger Games Conan the Barbarian

Who Should Replace Brett Ratner?

After Brett Ratner’s spectacular self-triggered demise as Oscarcast producer, the Academy can get lower to business obtaining a alternative to participate Don Mischer in acquiring the pieces. I’ve heard speculation different from Scott Sanders (who was simply eyed before Ratner got the jerk) to previous Oscar producers Joe Roth, Adam Shankman and Laurence Mark. Harvey Weinstein offered an because they are suggestion last evening. Weinstein, which has sitting through plenty of Oscarcasts, suggested drafting Saturday Evening Live producer Lorne Michaels, and achieving Tina Fey mixed up in writing. The idea is they can make Eddie Murphy comfortable and supply the broadcast a effective comic focus. I’m unsure Michaels or Fey could free time using their weekly show obligations in NY, though. Who should result in the show?

Walsh: Finds his 'Way' into a new job

Kevin WalshGetting tossed from a vehicle by Scott Rudin on the London highway has its own benefits."I'm not sure what you've learned about Scott, but every story holds true,Inch jokes one-time Rudin assistant Kevin Walsh, who characterizes his time spent using the mercurial producer like a tremendous learning chance. "However for every story you find out about how bad he's, how tough he's, it's rarely printed how witty he's. He is doing possess a spontaneity. I really like him for which he trained me and what he opened up up for me personally.InchWalsh released his showbiz career being an assistant to music mogul Tommy Mottola before seguing towards the Rudin publish."Four assistants got fired in front of me," recalls the Lafayette College grad of his first days at work, which incorporated Rudin ripping a fax from the wall and hurling it across an area. "I went from fifth assistant to first assistant within six or seven days."The Boston native parlayed his stint dealing with Rudin on seven films including "The Hrs" and "The Royal Tenenbaums" right into a writing career, establishing numerous projects out and about including "The Leaves," according to his original comicbook, at Summit.But he soon found the final outcome the scribe existence wasn't for him."I felt like I had been placing a square peg inside a round hole trying to become a author," states Walsh. "I have discovered previously 3 years that I am a natural producer. The 2 intersect because I enjoy sit lower with authors and determine a tale.InchHowever it required more false begins before Walsh fully devoted to creating. He dabbled with the thought of helming, and arrived a number of assistant director gigs working directly behind Steven Spielberg on "War from the Mobile phone industry's," "Munich" and also the approaching "The Adventures of Tintin." Walsh even unintentionally nabbed a plum acting role when he attended a marriage by which helmer Paul Thomas Anderson facilitated as minister. Anderson loved Walsh's retro looks and cast him in the approaching period drama "The Actual.InchWhen Nat Faxon and Jim Rash's hot script "The Way In Which, Long AgoInch came due last year, Walsh pounced. The approaching-of-age dramedy, that was setup at Mandate Pictures with Principato-Youthful and Shawn Levy's 21 Laps creating, attracted numerous large-title stars and company directors including Levy, Tom Bezucha and Alexander Payne. Walsh convinced Groundlings alums Faxon and Rash, who also composed Payne's "The Descendants," to direct. Producer has become in talks with Mike Gyllenhaal to star.Walsh is also creating the political action-thriller "Patriot Lower" at New Regency. CAA is to Tom Hanks to star within the pic that begins when Air Pressure One will get shot lower over Pakistan and also the leader finds themself away from home.Walsh models out his approaching creating slate using the revenge thriller "The Gringo," with James McTeigue pointing, and "King Dom," composed by "The Break-Up" scribe Jay Lavender."The many other career incarnations tends to make us a better producer," Walsh states. 10 PRODUCERS To Look At 2011Jason Michael Berman Borderline Films Tyler Davidson & Sophia Lin James Gay-Rees Lawrence Inglee Red-colored Granite Pictures Laura Rister Jonathan Schwartz Diarmid Scrimshaw Kevin Walsh Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Phase 4 Picks Up All North American Rights to 'Hick'

Phase 4 Films has picked up all U.S. and Canadian rights to director Derick Martini's Toronto Film Festival entry Hick, starring Chloe Grace Moretz, Blake Lively, Eddie Redmayne, Juliette Lewis and Alec Baldwin.our editor recommendsHick: Toronto Review Phase 4 president-CEO Berry Meyerowitz announced the deal with Hick Picture Productions president Charles De Portes. A spring 2012 release is planned. Based on the book of same name by Andrea Portes, Hick is about a 13-year-old girl (Moretz) who, tired of fending for herself and her mom's penchant for hard-drinking men, hits the road in hopes of becoming a superstar. Along the way, she meets a drifter with a chip on his shoulder (Redmayne) and a troubled but spirited woman (Lively) who takes the girl under her wing. "We've had Derek Martini on our radar since he entered the scene with his edgy film Lymelife," Meyerowitz said. "Hick is an amazing, pull no punches adventure and we could not ask for a more talented cast." The deal was negotiated by Phase 4 senior vice president of acquistions Larry Greenberg, Cassian Elwes of CAA and Graham Taylor at WME on behalf of the filmmakers. Related Topics Blake Lively Chloe Moretz

CBS Beats 3Q Earnings Predictions With Retransmission Consent And Digital Dough

CBS also introduced it’s growing its share repurchasing program by $1.5B — ithas already spent $850M from the previous $1.5B authorization. For 3Q earnings, CBS states it had net gain of $338M, up 6.6% versus this past year’s 3Q, on revenues of $3.37B, up 2%. Earnings at 50 cents a share beat the 46 cents that experts expected, even though they figured that revenues will come in at $3.43B. The organization states that revenues for that Entertainment unit, including the CBS network and CBS Films, was up 1% to $1.63B. It cites challenges from “the timing of domestic distribution sales” like a challenge although it achieved positive results from new cash from pay TV retransmission consent deals and digital streaming contracts with companies including Netflix. Cable systems, including Showtime, were up 14% to $420M, partially because of rate increases. The Simon & Schuster posting unit was up 1% to $220M, assisted by sales of Jaycee Dugard’s A Stolen Existence and Dick Cheney’s During My Time. But the organization’s local TV and r / c were lower 3% to $656M without this past year’s political advertisements. Outside ad sales were up 4% to $477M assisted by alterations in foreign currency rates. CBS chief L'ensemble des Moonves states he's “confident that people will close out 2011 strongly, and anticipate a good 2012 by which we'll progressively take advantage of movie, retransmission consent, reverse compensation from affiliate marketers, worldwide and native possibilities in addition to political advertising that promises to be really robust.”

Jimmy Fallon Dishes On Making Attacking Young Boys Spoof '(It Is Not My) Baby

First Released: November 3, 2011 12:54 PM EDT Credit: NBC Caption Jimmy Fallon works '(It Is Not My) Baby on Late Evening with Jimmy Fallon on November 2, 2011LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Jimmy Fallon is getting a chuckle with Justin Biebers alleged baby dad drama. On Wednesdays Late Evening with Jimmy Fallon, the funnyman first showed his latest spoof song, (It Is Not My) Baby, poking fun in a womans declare that the 17-year-old singer may be the father of her child something the performers repetition has adamantly refused. Jimmy known as into to gain access to Hollywood Survive Thursday morning telling Billy Rose bush and Package Hoover the Twitterverse was overflowing following the song opened. Today I awoke and my Twitter feed was from the charts you receive some that Bieber fever, you receive a hit off that Bieber stuff, he stated, explaining that they short amount of time to produce the piece. We'd the hairpiece, I clearly dont seem like Attacking Young Boys, and so i placed on the Bieber hairpiece therefore we requested The Roots when they could learn [the song,] he stated. Have you ever heard from Bieber? Package requested. I havent been told by him yet, but I know for certain that Ill listen to him or his lawyers within the next 30 minutes, Jimmy stated having a laugh. Browse the Jimmy carrying out (It Is Not My) Baby, HERE! Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

'The Muppets': Jason Segel, Amy Adams Search for Kermit, Miss Piggy Has a Showdown in New Clips (Video)

Disney released three new clips from its upcoming The Muppets movie on Wednesday.our editor recommends'The Muppets' at D23: Jason Segel Talks About Their Comedic Influence (Video)'The Muppets' Miss Piggy Disses Lady Gaga's 'Faux Frog' Kermit Coat The Muppets Parody R-Rated 'Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' in New Trailer (Video) The movie, which stars Jason Segel and Amy Adams, features Jim Henson's beloved characters and introduces a new Muppet named Walter. Chris Cooper and Rashida Jones co-star. VIDEO: 'The Muppets' Trailer Showcases Hollywood Cameos The film centers on the efforts of Gary (Segel), his girlfriend Mary (Adams) and brother Walter to save the Muppet Theater from being razed by a nefarious oilman (Cooper) who wants to use the property to drill oil recently discovered there. To do so, they must reunite the Muppets, who have all gone their separate ways. In one clip, Gary, Mary and Walter are searching for Kermit in Los Angeles -- where they make an unscheduled pit stop at famous hot dog eatery Pink's. STORY: Kermit as Mogul, Farting Fozzie Bear: How Disney's Muppets Movie Has Purists Rattled Another provides a bit of nostalgia for Muppets when Miss Piggy takes down another pig with her signature "hey-ya!" karate chop. Segel also co-wrote the movie with Nicholas Stoller and serves as executive producer. The movie, which marks the first Muppets feature film since 1999's Muppets From Space, opens Nov. 23. Related Topics Amy Adams Chris Cooper Jason Segel Rashida Jones The Muppets

DreamWorks' Jeffrey Katzenberg Considers Bold Expansion (Exclusive)

Is Jeffrey Katzenberg about to grow his empire? If DreamWorks Animation goes it alone when its alliance with Paramount ends in 2012, Katzenberg is considering forming a co-op to distribute third-party films in addition to DWA's lucrative animated titles.our editor recommends'Puss in Boots': How it Won the Weekend Box Office, But Disappointed Wall StreetDreamWorks Animation Extends Chief Marketing Officer Anne Globe's Contract Such a dramatic move would open up new business opportunities for DWA but require additional overhead, such as new marketing and distribution execs. The strategy could be a boost to the public company, whose tiny slate of films is scrutinized by Wall Street. When Puss in Boots opened Oct. 28 to $34.1 million, hammered by a freakishly early nor'easter, Janney Montgomery Scott analyst Tony Wible complained it was "even worse than our bearish [predictions]," and the stock dropped 8 percent to close at $18.56 on Oct. 31. PHOTOS: 'Puss in Boots' and 9 Other Inappropriately Sexy Cartoons To help explore three key options -- including self-distributing only DWA titles or negotiating a new deal with Paramount or another studio -- Katzenberg has recruited Chuck Viane, who stepped down as Disney's longtime president of distribution this year. "One of the things we've thought about is creating a co-op in which we would distribute films from other independent producers, and there are even some mini-majors that might want to have that kind of scale to service them and to reduce their costs," Katzenberg tells The Hollywood Reporter. "These are big ideas and big opportunities that are about much more than just marketing and distributing two or three DreamWorks titles a year." Reteaming with Viane -- whom Katzenberg and former Disney studio chief Dick Cook brought to Disney 27 years ago -- strengthens Katzenberg's bargaining position, since Viane has deep ties with the theater-owner community. "As I told Jeffrey, part of my problem has been answering the phone from all these people who want to have these conversations," Viane says. PHOTOS: Executives at the Academy Awards Katzenberg underscores that he doesn't favor any one option at this point. He intends to start talks with Paramount and any other studio by springtime before deciding his course by summer 2012. Paramount's Brad Grey wants a higher distribution fee than the 8 percent DWA now pays; Katzenberg isn't likely to go along. "Clearly, being with a major studio, you have the benefit of their infrastructure. And most of these companies have affiliated businesses that can help you," he says, adding that Paramount has done a phenomenal job with his movies, which have generated $10 billion. "But controlling your own enterprise has a lot of advantages. You're not relying on someone else, you're not ever taking a back seat to anybody else's agenda, you're never in conflict with somebody else's needs or problems or scheduling." DWA wouldn't have to start from scratch, either, since it already handles its own consumer products. Still, in addition to creating a theatrical operation, it would have to set up a home video division (which Paramount now handles, along with television sales), but Katzenberg says that's hardly "rocket science," noting that DWA COO Ann Daly has experience in that arena. She headed worldwide home entertainment at DreamWorks SKG -- the studio that Katzenberg created with David Geffen and Steven Spielberg in 1994 and from which DWA was spun off in 2004. If Katzenberg does get into distribution, he wouldn't be remaking DWA into a new version of the original DreamWorks. But the move would raise an intriguing scenario: There would be nothing to prevent current DreamWorks partners Spielberg and Stacey Snider from working with DWA when their multiyear deal with Disney ends in 2015. Related Topics Jeffrey Katzenberg

Fox and DirecTV Reach Last-Minute Deal to Avoid Blackout

Fox, Direct TV logos DirecTV and Fox Networks reached a last-minute agreement Monday to avoid a blackout that would have included FX, several regional sports networks and other Fox-owned cable channels, The NY Times reports. "Fox Networks and DirecTV have reached an agreement for DirecTV to continue carrying all Fox Networks," the two companies said in a joint statement. "We both know the past 10 days have been challenging, but we're pleased that both sides could eventually come together to ensure our viewers continue to enjoy Fox programming." Kurt Sutter takes on DirecTV over possible blackout with choice words Fox and DirecTV had been engaged in a public battle since Oct. 21. Fox claimed that DirecTV sent the company a proposal that stipulated that Fox agree to their pricing terms or else DirecTV's 19 million subscribers will lose access to more than two dozen Fox cable. DirecTV claimed that Fox was seeking a 40 percent increase in subscriber fees. They came to an agreement just nine hours before the Nov. 1 deadline. In the days leading up to the possible blackout, Kurt Sutter - the creator and executive producer behind FX's Sons of Anarchy, took to his blog to share the script of a promo he had written himself, but had not been approved or filmed. "Starting November 1st, DirecTV is pulling FX from your box. That means you'll miss the last five episodes of Sons this season. Perhaps five of the most critical episodes of the series," he said. "I know Fox has a horse in this race, but they're trying to negotiate in good faith. DirecTV is shutting down all conversation and using their customers as leverage. In the process, you're getting f---ed over. They're running ads with their corporate shill telling you how much 'they care about your business,' that dude's got one sincere hand on his heart while the other greases your unsuspecting backside. Because they're about to flip you over and f--- up the a-- till you bleed." DirecTV has 19 million subscribers. Are you happy Fox and DirecTV avoided the blackout?

Coens offer Timberlake a role in 'Inside'

TimberlakeJust as 20th Century Fox releases his futuristic thriller "In Time," Justin Timberlake is on the verge of landing his biggest movie role yet: He's been offered one of the lead roles in the Coen brothers' folk music pic "Inside Llewyn Davis." Story focuses on the folk music scene in Greenwich Village in the 1960s and the title character is loosely based on Dave Van Ronk, a folk singer who was friends with Bob Dylan, among other famous musicians. The Coens have offered Timberlake the role of Jim, a folk musician married to Jean, who will be played by Carey Mulligan. Oscar Isaac ("Drive") stars as the title character, a struggling folk musician born and bred in Queens. Despite being a talented singer and guitarist, he just can't seem to make ends meet playing music. Timberlake's feature career has been on the rise since his supporting perfs in such films as "Alpha Dog," "Southland Tales" and "Black Snake Moan." After earning critical acclaim for his turn as Napster founder Sean Parker in "The Social Network," Timberlake has taken on leading roles in the studio comedies "Bad Teacher" and "Friends With Benefits." Should he accept the Coens' offer, not only would Timberlake reunite with his "Social Network" producer Scott Rudin, but he'd have a key role in one of next year's most prestigious pics. StudioCanal is set to co-finance the film, which will be made without a domestic distribution partner. Robert Graf ("True Grit") is exec producing and production is skedded for early next year in Gotham. Timberlake is repped by WME and manager Rick Yorn. Contact Jeff Sneider at jeff.sneider@variety.com

When Johnny Depp Met Vanessa Paradis: 'My Life As a Single Man Was Done'

Carlo Allegri/Getty Images Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp will never forget his love-at-first-sight meeting with Vanessa Paradis in 1998. He was making a film -- The Ninth Gate -- with Roman Polanski in Paris. One night the director and actor both went to a dinner party at the Hotel Costes on Rue Saint-Honoré on the Right Bank. "She was wearing a dress with an exposed back and I saw that back and that neck, and then she turned around and I saw those eyes, and - boom! My life as a single man was done," the Daily Mail reports. He added, 'You have this feeling - I can't really explain what it was, but I had it when I met her. I saw her across a room and thought: "What's happening to me?" PHOTOS: Johnny Depp's Most Memorable Career Moments Depp got much more than a life partner when he hooked up with the French singer/actress/model. He also got a style partner. Both he and Vanessa have equally quirky individual styles that's part rock n' roll and part vintage. It's always a pleasure to see them together on the red carpets. From day one, they have seemed right in sync, even here at the Critics Choice Awards in 2004. While Paradis is more likely to wear a designer than Depp (she favors Chanel) but she also loves vintage chiffon dresses. VIDEO: Johnny Depp Confronts Ricky Gervais About Golden Globes Jokes Depp has it in his contracts that he gets to keep his film costumes so he has quite a selection of made-to-measure items -- designed by Oscar-winning costume designer Colleen Atwood . Think Sweeney Todd, Alice in Wonderland, Sleepy Hollow, Public Enemies, Rum Diaries and now Dark Shadows. According to Atwood, Depp keeps his costumes in a warehouse in Santa Monica, carefully stored and catalogued The couple and their two children, Jack and Lily Rose, spend their time at their LA Hollywood Hills compound, their two homes in France, a yacht and a private Caribbean island and he still occasionally gets onstage for surprise musical performances. And their love is still going strong. "She and I have been together for nearly 14 years, and, well, I can hardly believe it. It only seems like yesterday that we met." Meeting her also changed his wild lifestyle. He cut down on drinking and smoking, started exercising and healthy eating. Depp's idea of a perfect moment now is a far cry from his youthful partying days. 'A glass or two of wine before dinner is my favorite thing, watching the sunset and the kiddies playing nearby. It's perfection.' Johnny Depp Roman Polanski Red Carpet Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides Dark Shadows The Lone Ranger

Cable Pilot Castings: Serta Lauria To Star In Sullivan & Boy, Austin Butler In Intercept

EXCLUSIVE: Serta Lauria is placed to star opposite Steve Byrne in The best spinner's half-hour comedy pilot Sullivan And Boy, starring comedian Byrne and executive created by Vince Vaughn and Peter Billingsley. Compiled by Byrne and Cheers alum Take advantage of Lengthy, Sullivan And Boy is incorporated in the vein from the classic NBC comedy and happens inside a popular and legendary neighborhood bar inside a working-class neighborhood in Pittsburgh. It focuses on Steve Sullivan (Byrne), the boy from the bars current owner (Lauria) and also the grand son of their founder, who surprises his Irish-American father and Korean-American mother (Jodi Lengthy) when he decides to depart his job like a effective corporate attorney in New You are able to and go back to the area to consider over Sullivan & Boy. Lauria is by using Talent Works, Marshak/Zachary & Shaun Berger. Austin Butler, that has been recurring on ABC Family’s Switched At Birth, is placed to star inside a potential new series for that network. Butler has became a member of ABC Family’s hourlong pilot Intercept, a technology- and action-driven drama four university students who get roped into fixing crimes when one of these (Butler) produces a higher-tech communication device that intercepts conversations through the West Coast. Butler joins lately cast Danielle Panabaker and Chloe Wang.

Starz Orders David Goyer's 'Da Vinci's Demons' To Series

Kevin Winter/Getty ImagesDavid S. Goyer Starz is certainly going into business using the guy behind the Superman and Batman. A mans-skewing cable network has acquired adventure series Da Vinci's Devils, compiled by Guy of Steel feature scribe David Goyer (who also co-authored Batman Starts, The Dark Dark night). The eight-episode historic fantasy series, developed and created by BBC Worldwide Productions, informs the "untold" story around the globe's finest genius throughout his 20s in Renaissance Florence. "Da Vinci was the initial Renaissance guy -- a near-mythic figure which has worldwide appeal," Goyer stated inside a statement announcing this news Tuesday."We have spent with figures like Batman and Superman, it designed a strange type of sense that i can dive in to the details and stories swirling round his roots." Da Vinci's Devils will even tell the storyline from the brash and brilliant 25-year-old artist, inventor, swordsman, lover, dreamer and idealist whose intellect and skills is going to be investigated because he find it difficult to live in their own reality and time because he starts to determine -- and invent -- the near future. "This is a show about secret histories, genius, madness and all sorts of things profane," Goyer added."And That I'm particularly excited which i get to get it done on premium cable, in which the story is often as dark and challenging and irreverent because it warrants to become.Starz and BBC Worldwide Productions happen to be only encouraging." The project may be the first underneath the multiyear deal Starz and BBC Worldwide Productions set this summer time. Production around the series is scheduled to start early the coming year for any 2013 premiere. Goyer assists as showrunner, with Julie Gardner executive creating together with BBC Worldwide Productions topper Jane Tranter. "David has reimagined probably the most legendary superheroes ever, and it is again building an remarkable prism by which to find the earth's finest genius and many mysterious guy," Starz media controlling director Carmi Zlotnick stated. "If present day has Tony Stark, the Renaissance had da Vinci. This can be a story we feel will captivate the creativeness of audiences all over the world and it is the very first of the items we be prepared to be many productions with this gifted partners at BBC Worldwide Productions." Added Tranter: "The youthful existence of the incredibly complex and brilliant guy has not been investigated. With David Goyer, whose imagination has produced juggernaut and legendary theatrical features, combined using the premium presence of Chris Albrecht, Carmi Zlotnik as well as their Starz team, we could not become more enthusiastic about getting this story to U.S. audiences and worldwide audiences." Da Vinci's Devils joins a selection which includes Kelsey Grammer's already-restored politica drama Boss, Spartacus: Vengeance and Miracle City, which premieres in April. Goyer and BBC Worldwide Productions are repped by CAA. Email: Lesley.Goldberg@thr.com Twitter: @Snoodit

NBC Sports departing New You'll be able to

After greater than six decades, NBC Sports group is departing NY City for Connecticut. The web will retain some space within the longtime home at Rockefeller Center, but almost all its methods will go to the completely new Stamford offices, where the governor's office introduced the org brings some 450 jobs and would consequently receive tax credits. The web may also be apparently obtaining a loan of $20 million. Comcast Sports Management group, which runs 22 regional nets, is moving to Connecticut, too, when construction within the new campus (a classic Clairol factory) is completed between 2013. Cable internet Versus, NBC Olympics and NBC Sports Digital will probably be among the divisions situated within the facility. Remaining behind will probably be NBC's Sunday evening Nfl pre-game show "Football Evening within the usaInch and sales staff coping with the Madison Avenue-based industry. Contact Mike Thielman at mike.thielman@variety.com

Maestro Award Recipient Alan Menken on the Future of Movie Musicals (Q&A)

Eight Oscars plus 10 Grammy Awards and seven Golden Globes equals one illustrious career for composer and lyricist Alan Menken, 62, whose musical canon includes such beloved animated fare as The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Tangled, along with the classic Little Shop of Horrors and his latest screen-to-stage adaptation, Sister Act.our editor recommendsComposer Alan Menken: Why I Don't Watch 'Glee' After 25 years in the business, he remains an in-demand music man with heart, soul and a very sturdy trophy cabinet, soon to add another to the collection: the Billboard/Hollywood Reporter Maestro Award, to be presented Oct. 24 at our 2011 Film & TV Music Conference. PHOTOS: 'Tangled' and 14 Other Movies That Made an A+ CinemaScore Grade The Hollywood Reporter: What is the state of the movie musical today? Alan Menken: Musicals are tough. There is no industry or pipeline through which new movie musicals come -- there aren't stars that we identify with musical theater, nor is there an established audience that's big enough just for a film musical. After we did Tangled, there was really no movement to do more. Essentially, you're reinventing the wheel each time you do a film musical, and I've been fortunate that I get to try. THR: Although it paid off for all parties in the end, you voiced frustration over the way Tangled was marketed. What did you take issue with? Menken: That it wasn't billed as a musical. In the trailers, the songs were hidden -- they used a Pink song instead -- because I think Disney felt the best way to market the movie was as a kind of boy-oriented action adventure. But I was hired to write a musical based on Rapunzel. So sometimes it's frustrating, but in the case of Tangled, you have to say maybe they knew something because they changed the name, made a serious effort to market it in a certain way and the movie did very well. It worked out just fine. THR: Was there a time it didn't? Menken: Home on the Range -- that was a bit of a creative train wreck where a lot of good work went into something that wasn't smartly conceived. People were not in the same place, and that happens a lot, especially with musicals, where you can get pulled in two or three directions. It can be harrowing and it can fail, and sometimes, much to your surprise, it can succeed. THR: Are you surprised at the successful return of The Lion King? Menken: Go figure! It's amazing after all this time. But The Lion King is a very beloved animated musical -- exceptionally so. THR: Is there a movie executive who really gets music? Menken: Chris Montan. He started as a music supervisor when I first came to Disney, and 26 years later he's still there as [president of Walt Disney Music]. There's never been anybody more influential on me as a composer than Chris, but in terms of Jeffrey Katzenberg or Michael Eisner, who I work with, their heads are not in the process. What they're looking at is the result, and it's my job to give them the result they want while hanging on to my integrity as a composer. THR: You've lived in the NY area all your life and worked on Broadway on and off for decades. What was it like watching the Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark drama from the sidelines? Menken: For those of us who know what it's like to open a Broadway show, there's great empathy for Julie Taymor and the people who stuck their necks out. And there's a certain degree of schadenfreude because we've all gotten our rear ends kicked by the critics and bloggers. ... We're all acrobats. You're watching somebody try a particularly difficult dismount. What Julie did was really courageous. But it's also about bringing the music of U2 to the stage. One of the reasons we won a lot of best song Oscars was it didn't sound like somebody just put in a trunk song. In every case, they were completely honed to the project. Related Topics Alan Menken

Eddie Murphy on Hosting the Oscars: 'I Don't Feel the Pressure'

NY - Academy Awards host Eddie Murphy promised that he will stay at the show all night after running off in 2007 after losing the best supporting actor race, in which he was a contender with his role in Dreamgirls, to Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine), HitFix reported.our editor recommendsBen Stiller, Eddie Murphy in 'Tower Heist' Trailer (Video)Eddie Murphy as Possible Oscar Host: News Met With Mixed Reactions "I'm looking forward to doing it and I promise I'll stay there all night," Murphy said during a press conference for his comedy thriller Tower Heist, according to the report. He also said he doesn't feel nervous at all. "Oscars is a fun thing to do," he said. "I don't feel the pressure. I get to introduce people and stand up straight. Maybe I'll be in a couple silly sketches or something." The actor said he hasn't worked on any Oscar material so far, because "no one's got nominated yet,"HitFix said. Murphy hasn't hosted an awards show since the 1985 MTV Video Music Awards. Asked why he accepted the hosting offer, Murphy said: "Never got to it. I've only been to the Oscars two or three times in 30 years." Tower Heist director Brett Ratner didn't speak about his Oscar producing role during the press conference, according to the report. He and co-executive producer Don Mischer recently told The Hollywood Reporter that Murphy would deliver as host. The 84th annual Academy Awards will be broadcast by ABC on Feb. 26. Email: Georg.SzalaI@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Brett Ratner Eddie Murphy

Film Clip Warner Bros Choice To Increase The Risk For Stand

Warner Bros has selected Film Clip to evolve and direct The Stand, Stephen King’s apocalyptic mammoth book. Affleck has converted into a cornerstone director for your studio, but this really is his finest challenge yet. Even King remains reticent about the idea of developing a feature of his book, which formerly was converted to a miniseries. While Using Town and Gone Baby Gone, Affleck has proven the grit essential additional type of memorable tale. It’s beginning, nevertheless the studio loves Affleck, who’s now pointing Argo.

Captain America deleted scene released

Not only have we been treated to a full Marvel One-Shot short film in recent days, now there's bonus footage from the Captain America DVD and Blu-ray online too. The deleted scene shows Cap and his buddies throwing down with the Nazis, until some new technology rolls onto the battlefield.We kinda like that they decided to leave the VFX from this outtake partly finished.No embedded video yet, so follow the Marvel.com link below to see the squad in action. Plus some gratuitous dancing girls, of course.

Natalie Morales Joins NBCs Rock Center

With so many hires, maybe we should a story on who from NBC News isn’t on NBC’s new primetime newsmagazine Rock Center With Brian Williams. Today news anchor Natalie Morales is the latest to be tapped for the newsmagazine as a correspondent, joining anchor and managing editor Brian Williams and correspondents Harry Smith, Kate Snow, Ted Koppel, Meredith Vieira, Richard Engel, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, Matt Lauer and Ann Curry.

REVIEW: Almodvar's The Skin I Live In a Twisty, Sci-Fi Psychosexual Melodrama

The idea of building a person to spec — especially when that person is some form of ideal woman — is one that’s haunted the movies in variations from My Fair Lady to Vertigo to Bride of Frankenstein to Weird Science. It’s an echo of the constructing of a character that results in what you see on screen — a figure who’s the joint creation of an actor, director, writer, makeup artist, dialect coach, costume designer, ad infinitum. But it’s also a concept that provides a counter to the typical romance saga in which two people who are perfect for one other come together. Why search for your match when you can make one? It’s fair to say that the human experiment at the heart of The Skin I Live In, Pedro Almodvar’s latest, is motivated by loneliness, if also revenge and mourning. And, naturally, craziness — lots of craziness. One character, after dumping a load of soap-opera-on-acid exposition in the form of a monologue, notes that the film’s protagonist was “born insane.” “I’ve got insanity in my entrails,” she adds for good measure. Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonio Banderas, reuniting with Almodvar for their first film together in over two decades) may be more than a little off, but he’s also a brilliant plastic surgeon who’s been working on a synthetic skin that’ll resist many of the normal weaknesses — say, fire — inherent to the more fragile organ with which we’re born. Like any mad scientist worth his salt, his work pushes the boundaries of what his colleagues consider ethical and acceptable, especially his use of transgenesis. Lord knows what they’d say if they saw what he’s been up to in his spare time. The object of Ledgard’s fixation and his own personal guinea pig is Vera (a memorable Elena Anaya), a beautiful, lithe woman we first see contorting herself in a yoga stretch in a flesh-colored body stocking and looking like a doll being bent into an impossible angle. It’s not an accidental resemblance — constructed figures litter the background of The Skin I Live In, from the nudes on the walls of Ledgard’s house to the mannequins in the window of clothing store in town. And Vera is one of them, though her consent in the matter is obviously questionable — she’s kept in a locked room with a surveillance camera through which Ledgard likes to observe her, though she’s also delivered meals, an Alice Munro book and material for her art projects via a dumbwaiter. She doesn’t seem completely stable either, with her closet of shredded clothes and bout of self-harm. She could be patient or victim. I’m reluctant to give away any more details of this story, which contains some wild twists involving how Vera ended up where she did and Ledgard’s tragedy-filled backstory. What’s distinctive about The Skin I Live In, beyond even these nutso developments, is how reserved it is in terms of filmmaking choices. Aside from his usual bold color schemes, Almodvar has managed a remarkably restrained telling of what’s in essence a sci-fi psychosexual melodrama set in the very near future of 2012 Toledo. He’s much quoted as describing the film as “a horror story without screams or frights,” and he receives assistance in that regard with straight, unwinking performances from Banderas, Anaya and Marisa Paredes as the housekeeper Marilia. While it’s never short on tension, with the addition of disturbing details like the delivery of a container of animal blood to a kitchen table, or the reveal that “Gal,” the name Ledgard has given his synthetic skin, is also the name of his late wife, the film approaches its tale as a psychological mystery, unraveling the question of how these people came to be in their strange situation, and prodding at the malleability of the human exterior and interior. The Skin I Live In approaches its present from two angles — its first half essentially offering Ledgard’s view, the second Vera’s, circling around a disruption to the pair’s routine caused by a wild animal, or rather a man (Roberto lamo) in a tiger costume that changes the status quo in the isolated household. It’s a deliberately silly prod fitting for such a determinedly oddball narrative, and it speaks to the consistency of the film’s tone that what takes place when the tiger comes into the house doesn’t seem any more unexpected than what happened before he got there. Ledgard’s controlling devotion has created a shared psychosis into which everyone around him seems to have been pulled — “You and I aren’t like anyone,” he says to Vera when expresses a wish for the pair of them to live a more normal life. How true that is in the underlying question of the film — Ledgard has capability to shape someone’s outside, but the mind and soul are something else that no surgeon’s knife can reach.

Producers Guild to Honor Leslie Moonves With Milestone Award

The Producers Guild of America announced that CBS Corp. president and CEO Leslie Moonves will be honored with the 2012 Milestone Award, which will be presented at the awards ceremony on Jan. 21 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.our editor recommendsCBS Corp. CEO Leslie Moonves' 2010 Compensation Rises 34% to $57.7 MillionCBS Corp. CEO Leslie Moonves Even More Bullish On Advertising Outlook And Company Than Usual Moonves oversees all operations of CBS Corp., including CBS Television Network, Showtime, CBS Radio, Simon & Schuster and CBS Interactive. "Les Moonves is a true visionary, with the rare combination of exemplary managerial skills, singular creative instincts and forward thinking leadership of CBS and our industry," said Producers Guild Awards co-chairs Paula Wagner and Michael Manheim. "Les has continued to advance the entertainment landscape with his ability to stay at the forefront of new media ventures, identify strategic acquisitions, recognize unique programming such as Survivor and CSI, and successfully guide his continuously growing team to achieve extraordinary results. We are proud to recognize his contributions to the entertainment industry with the Guild's highest honor." "I am extremely thankful to the Guild for this recognition, and truly honored to be recognized alongside the caliber of talent that has received this award previously," said Moonves. The Milestone Award recognizes an individual who has made historic contributions to the entertainment industry. Previous recipients have included Clint Eastwood, Alfred Hitchcock, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Ron Howard and Brian Grazer, James Cameron and Walt Disney. Related Topics Leslie Moonves CBS CBS Corporation

Box Office Report: Hugh Jackman's 'Real Steel' Wins Friday With $8.six million

Shawn Levy's robot boxing drama Real Steel capped the Friday box office race with $8.six million, however the fate from the Hugh Jackman pic will be based upon strong family business over the past weekend.our editor recommendsBox Office Preview: Hugh Jackman's 'Real Steel' Set to Win WeekendBox Office Report: Hugh Jackman's 'Real Steel' Searching to spread out North of $25 Mil'Ides of March': George Clooney, Ryan Gosling's Energy Player StyleRyan Gosling: 'I Fanned Out' in 'Ides of March' (Video)George Clooney's 'The Ides Of March': Early ReviewsGeorge Clooney's 'The Ides of March': Exactly what the Experts Say The Ides of March, directed by George Clooney, placed second, grossing an believed $3.5 million on the effectiveness of adult moviegoers intrigued through the political drama. Ides stars Clooney, Ryan Gosling and Philip Seymour Hoffman. PHOTOS: 'Real Steel' Premiere Because it stands now, Real Steel is headed for any $24 million to $26 million debut, lacking the wished-for $$ 30 million or better opening. However, if families come out in pressure over the past weekend, the DreamWorks movie might make up some ground and finish up north of $27 million. Real Steel cost $110 million to create, as well as is opening a few days ago in many key foreign marketplaces. Ides of March, written by The new sony and fully funded by Cold Creek Pictures, is forecasted to earn $10.5 million or better for that weekend, many thinking about the film cost $12.5 million to create. The new sony is wishing to best the $10.4 million gained by Clooney starrer Michael Clayton on its first weekend in countrywide release. PHOTOS: 'Real Steel' Start Looking CinemaScores won't be launched until Saturday evening for either film. Warner Bros. and Alcon Entertainment's Dolphin Tale placed No. 3 on its third Friday, grossing $2.4 million for any domestic cume of $42.3 million, then The new sony's Kaira Pitt baseball drama Moneyball by having an believed $2.3 million for any cume of $44 million. Summit Entertainment and Mandate Pictures' Seth Rogen-Frederick Gordon-Levitt film 50/50 paced No. 5, grossing an believed $1.8 million for any cume of $13.six million in the first eight days in release. Belief-based pic Courageous, from Sherwood Pictures and TriStar, arrived No. 6, grossing $1.4 million on its second Friday for any total $12.7 million. Difficulties-Rachel Weisz horror movie Dream House adopted with $1.36 million for any cume of $11.4 million in the first eight days. Disney three dimensional re-discharge of The Lion King fell to No. 8, grossing an believed $1.two million for domestic total of $82.six million. The re-release has turned into a box office blockbuster, and it is still playing in additional than 2,260 theaters, even thought the Gemstone Blu-Ray edition from the film was launched on March. 4. What's Your Number? arrived No. 9 on its second Friday, grossing an believed $a million for any disappointing cume of $8.3 million. Fox is disbursing the Anna Faris-Chris Evans R-ranked comedy, that was created and fully funded by New Regency. Rachelle Lefervre action pic Abduction, from Lionsgate, rounded the top ten, grossing an believed $865K for any cume of $21.3 million. Related Subjects George Clooney Hugh Jackman Ryan Gosling Box Office Real Steel The Ides of March