***Zach Braff in Talks for OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL ***Alex Proyas to Produce Indie Assassin Film FUTURE PERFECT; Shane Abbess to Direct ***Casting Call: John Cho Joins TOTAL RECALL, Colin Hanks Boards MY MOTHER’S CURSE, Elijah Wood in CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER ***"Akira" Loses Star and Director

Zach Braff in Talks for OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
by Brendan Bettinger Posted: May 26th, 2011 at 7:34 pm


Zach Braff is in final talks to join Oz: The Great and Powerful, Disney’s re-imagining of/prequel to The Wizard of Oz. James Franco stars as “a charismatic circus magician who is treated as a powerful wizard after his balloon blows off course into Oz and the townsfolk want him to eradicate a Wicked Witch and bring peace.” According to Deadline, Braff will play Frank, the wizard’s loyal but under-appreciated assistant. Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams, and Rachel Weisz play three witches. The 3D production begins begin this July in Michigan under the direction of Sam Raimi. Oz: The Great and Powerful is scheduled for release on March 8, 2013.


The Scrubs fans out there may remember Braff directed “My Way Home,” the series’ 100th episode and homage to The Wizard of Oz. Watch a clip from the episode after the break. http://collider.com/zach-braff-oz-the-great-and-powerful/93250/

Alex Proyas to Produce Indie Assassin Film FUTURE PERFECT; Shane Abbess to Direct

by Jason Barr   Posted: May 26th, 2011

Director Alex Proyas (The Crow) has signed on to produce an independent assassin project entitled Future Perfect. Proyas will oversee the project for director Shane Abbess (Gabriel) according to 24 Frames which cites the film as being in a similar vein as Joe Wright’s Hanna. Future Perfect was written by Brian McGreevy and Lee Shipman, the same scribes behind the Zorro reboot, Zorro Reborn. While additional plot details on the project are sparse, the report claims that the script involves two eugenically created assassins, one an older man and the other a young girl, who are on the run from an unspecified pursuer (the same top-secret government agency that funded their creation, perhaps?).

In addition to Future Perfect, Proyas also has an adaptation of Milton’s Paradise Lost and Dracula: Year Zero currently hanging out in development. There is no word on how Perfect‘s Australian-based production will affect Proyas’ work on each of those projects, a notion that may be worthy of concern given his “godfather” role on this latest project. As for Abbess, although 2007′s Gabriel is his only directorial effort to date, at one point the filmmaker was attached to helm Duncan Jones’ Source Code (for which he received a “Thanks” credit in the film). http://collider.com/alex-proyas-future-perfect-shane-abbess/93231/

Casting Call: John Cho Joins TOTAL RECALL, Colin Hanks Boards MY MOTHER’S CURSE, Elijah Wood in CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER

by Adam Chitwood Posted: May 26th, 2011 at 6:12 pm

We’ve got a few casting stories for you tonight. First up, John Cho is the latest actor to join the cast of Len Wiseman’s Total Recall remake. The film stars Colin Farrell, Bryan Cranston, the recently confirmed Kate Beckinsale and Jessica Bielm, and late addition Bill Nighy. EW reports that Cho is on board to play McClane, the rep for the company that tries to mess with Farrell’s character’s mind. Cranston is playing the villain, with Ethan Hawke set to show up in a cameo. Total Recall hits theaters August 3rd 2012.
Additionally, Colin Hanks has signed on for the Paramount comedy My Mother’s Curse. The film stars Seth Rogen, Barbara Streisand and Chuck star Yvonne Strahovski. The story centers on an inventor (Rogen) who invites his mother along for a cross-country trip while he attempts to sell his new product and connect with a long lost love. THR reports that Hanks will play the husband of Strahovski, Rogen’s high school sweetheart. Anne Fletcher (The Proposal) will direct from a script by Dan Fogelman (Tangled). Hit the jump for the casting news of Elijah Wood in Celeste and Jesse Forever.  http://collider.com/john-cho-total-recall-colin-hanks-my-mothers-curse/93234/

"Akira" Loses Star and Director

Posted: May 26th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Things were going so well for Warner Bros big screen adaptation of "Akira" graphic novel. Director Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli) was set to helm and Keanu Reeves was in talks to star.

The plan was to use Reeves to attract other A-listers to this $100 million film. Unfortunately, Reeves turned down the offer and now comes word that Hughes dropped out as well.

Deadline says that there were serious creative differences between Hughes and the studio, which will move Hughes to another project while keeping "Akira" on a fast track. A director will likely be found soon.

And regarding actors, Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield and James McAvoy were given the script for the role of Tetsuo, and Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake and Joaquin Phoenix were courted for Kaneda.

Source: Deadline



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21801&count=0

***Keanu Reeves Turns Down "Akira" Film ***Johnny Depp's "Dark Shadows" Plot Revealed ***Jason Reitman's "Young Adult" Plot Revealed ***Trailer: "I Melt With You" with Thomas Jane, Rob Lowe, Jeremy Piven, Sasha Grey ***"The Crow" Remake to Begin Filming in January

Johnny Depp's "Dark Shadows" Plot Revealed

Posted: May 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Warner Bros has unveiled a details plot synopsis for "Dark Shadows," which is directed by Tim Burton and stars Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, Jackie Earle Haley, and Chloe Moretz. Production started this week.

Plot: In the year 1752, Joshua and Naomi Collins, with young son Barnabas, set sail from Liverpool, England to start a new life in America. But even an ocean was not enough to escape the mysterious curse that has plagued their family. Two decades pass and Barnabas (Depp) has the world at his feet - or at least the town of Collinsport, Maine. The master of Collinwood Manor, Barnabas is rich, powerful and an inveterate playboy... until he makes the grave mistake of breaking the heart of Angelique Brouchard (Green). A witch, in every sense of the word, Angelique dooms him to a fate worse than death: turning him into a vampire, and then burying him alive.

Two centuries later, Barnabas is inadvertently freed from his tomb and emerges into the very changed world of 1972. He returns to Collinwood Manor to find that his once-grand estate has fallen into ruin. The dysfunctional remnants of the Collins family have fared little better, each harboring their own dark secrets. Matriarch Elizabeth Collins Stoddard (Pfeiffer) has called upon live-in psychiatrist, Dr. Julia Hoffman (Carter), to help with her family troubles.

Also residing in the manor is Elizabeth's ne'er-do-well brother, Roger Collins (Jonny Lee Miller); her rebellious teenage daughter Carolyn Stoddard (Moretz); and Roger's precocious 10-year-old son, David Collins (Gulliver McGrath). The mystery extends beyond the family, to caretaker Willie Loomis (Haley), and David's new nanny, Victoria Winters (Bella Heathcote).

Source: Warner Bros



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21707&count=0

 

 

Jason Reitman's "Young Adult" Plot Revealed

Posted: May 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Paramount Pictures has unveiled the official plot synopsis for Jason Reitman's (Up in the Air, Juno) upcoming "Young Adult" film, which stars Charlie Zeron, Patrick Wilson and Patton Oswalt. The script is once again written by Diablo Cody.

Plot: Theron plays Mavis Gary, a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Wilson). When returning home proves more difficult than she thought, Mavis forms an unusual bond with a former classmate (Oswalt) who hasn’t quite gotten over high school, either.

Reitman has already wrapped filming and will likely premiere the movie at the Toronto Film Festival in September, just like he has done with all his other films.

Source: Paramount Pictures


Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21706&count=0

 

 

Keanu Reeves Turns Down "Akira" Film

Posted: May 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Earlier this month, it was revealed that Keanu Reeves was in talks to play Kaneda, the gang leader in the upcoming live-action "Akira" film. Warner Bros was hoping that having Reeves on board would better its chances of getting another A-lister to take the role of Tetsuo, the best friend.

JoBlo has now learned that Reeves has officially turned down the role, which will likely make many fans very happy. Warners quickly released a statement addressing allegations that the project, which has a budget of roughly $140 million and has Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli) attached to direct, may be in trouble.

"Production on 'Akira' has not halted or been shut down, as the film has not yet been greenlit and is still very much in the development stage," said the studio. "The exploratory process is crucial to a project of this magnitude, and we will continue to sculpt our approach to making the best possible film."

Source: JoBlo

Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21701&count=0

 

 

 

Trailer: "I Melt With You" with Thomas Jane, Rob Lowe, Jeremy Piven, Sasha Grey

Posted: May 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


It turns out that the trailer for "I Melt With You," starring Thomas Jane, Rob Lowe, Jeremy Piven, Christian McKay, Carla Gugino and Sasha Grey, has made its way online. You can now watch it below.

Plot: Four college friends (Jane, Lowe, Piven, McKay) reunite for their annual summer reunion in a seaside town, but 25 years of disappointments and compromises resurrect a pact they vowed to live, die, and kill by.

The new low-budget drama is directed by Mark Pellington (The Mothman Prophecies, Arlington Road) and has already premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The film has yet to set a release date.



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21700&count=0

 

 

"The Crow" Remake to Begin Filming in January

Posted: May 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


We just reported producer Ed Pressman is at the Cannes Film Festival with news that he'll be remaking Jean Claude Van-Damme's "Bloodsport" film with director Phillip Noyce (Salt) at the helm.

Pressman also revealed that "The Crow" remake is moving forward and will begin filming in January. Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (28 Weeks Later) is on board to direct and Bradley Cooper (The Hangover) is still attached to star. It turns out that the lawsuit between Relativity Media and The Weinstein Company is no longer an issue.

In the film, Cooper will play a rock musician who is murdered while trying to save his fiancee from thugs. He is resurrected by supernatural forces and seeks revenge. The role was originally played by Brandon Lee, who was killed by a freak accident during production in 1993.

Source: ScreenDaily



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21699&count=0

***Keanu Reeves Will NOT Star in AKIRA; Film Still in Development ***Armie Hammer Is THE LONE RANGER ***Gillian Jacobs Is SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD; Rob Corddry, Rob Huebel, and Thomas Lennon Join RAPTUREPALOOZA ***Joel Edgerton Lands THE GREAT GATSBY

Gillian Jacobs Is SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD; Rob Corddry, Rob Huebel, and Thomas Lennon Join RAPTUREPALOOZA
by Jason Barr Posted: May 17th, 2011 at 6:50 pm


We have a couple of casting bits to bring your way tonight. First up, Community’s Gillian Jacobs has joined Steve Carell and Keira Knightley in Seeking a Friend for the End of the World. Written/directed by Lorene Scafaria (who wrote the film adaptation of Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist), Friend tells the story of a man (Carell) and woman (Knightley) who embark on a trip to locate the former’s high school sweetheart before an oncoming asteroid ends life on Earth as we know it. THR reports that Jacobs’ role will be that of a “waitress high on Ecstasy that the duo meet on their journey” (which sounds eerily similar to the one Lindsay Sloane was in talks for as of last week). The story also confirms earlier reports that William Peterson, Adam Brody, and Rob Corddry will appear in the film. Production on the film began this week in Los Angeles.


Speaking of Rob Corddry, Variety confirms that he, Rob Huebel (Childrens’ Hospital), and Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!) will star in the post-apocalyptic comedy Rapturepalooza. The trio join a cast that already includes Anna Kendrick (Scott Pilgrim vs. the World), John Francis Daley (Bones), and The Office’s Craig Robinson. The promising, albeit low-budget (coming in at less than $2 million), centers on two teens (Kendrick and Daley) who battle their way through the end of the world in order to defeat the Antichrist (Robinson). Paul Middleditch will direct Rapturepalooza for Lionsgate from a script by Chris Matheson.
http://collider.com/gillian-jacobs-seeking-a-friend-for-the-end-of-the-world-rob-corddry-rapturepalooza/91441/






Joel Edgerton Lands THE GREAT GATSBY
by Jason Barr Posted: May 17th, 2011 at 6:03 pm


Joel Edgerton (Animal Kingdom) will play the role of Tom Buchanan in director Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 classic, The Great Gatsby. A few days ago, we reported that Edgerton was considered a top contender for the role alongside Luke Evans (Clash of the Titans). Tonight, Deadline confirms that Edgerton has claimed the significant role (once occupied by Ben Affleck) and will join a cast that already includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, and Isla Fisher. In discussing Edgerton’s casting, Luhrmann credited the actor’s physicality and “five-star acting chops” as deciding factors.


In addition to Gatsby, Edgerton can next be seen alongside Tom Hardy in the action/drama Warrior due out later this year on September 9th. The Aussie actor also stars in the remake of John Carpenter’s The Thing alongside Mary Elizabeth Winstead which is due out October 14th. Production on Gatsby is set to begin this August in Sydney with an unspecified 2012 3D release date in mind.
http://collider.com/joel-edgerton-the-great-gatsby/91435/






Armie Hammer Is THE LONE RANGER
by Jason Barr Posted: May 17th, 2011 at 5:30 pm


Armie Hammer (The Social Network) will star in Disney and producer Jerry Bruckheimer’s adaptation of The Lone Ranger. Variety reports that the actor is in final negotiations to take on the iconic role of “The Lone Ranger” which began as a radio show in the 1930s before being adapted into the massively popular television series in 1949. Hammer will play opposite Johnny Depp who has been attached to the project as the Ranger’s trusty sidekick, Tonto, since 2008. Gore Verbinski (Rango) will direct The Lone Ranger from a script by Justin Haythe (Revolutionary Road).


Production on the film is expected to begin after Depp wraps Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows adaptation which is due out May 11th, 2012. As for Hammer, his stock continues to rise as he has recently locked down the role of the prince alongside Julia Roberts in The Brothers Grimm: Snow White as well as a supporting role in Clint Eastwood’s Herbert Hoover biopic, Hoover.
http://collider.com/armie-hammer-the-lone-ranger-2/91431/






Keanu Reeves Will NOT Star in AKIRA; Film Still in Development
by Jason Barr Posted: May 17th, 2011 at 4:47 pm


Talks between Warner Bros. and Keanu Reeves regarding his role in the studio’s adaptation of the manga-turned-anime, Akira, have come to an end with Reeves passing on the project. JoBlo broke the news of the deceased negotiations earlier today which quickly spawned questions concerning the film’s future at the studio. While I’ll stop short of projecting the film’s long-term outlook, for now we have confirmed the accuracy of the original report with the studio who reassures us that Reeves passing on the role has not killed the project which is set to be directed by Albert Hughes (The Hughes Brothers) from a rewritten script by Steve Kloves (the Harry Potter series).


Although the constant back-and-forth regarding Akira casting may appear to be a bleak sign for the project (a shortlist of names including Robert Pattinson and Chris Pine previously appeared here, with names like James Franco and Zac Efron being rumored here and here), it’s worthy to note that many high-profile/big-budget projects such as this have a difficult time getting off of the ground initially. As such, we should most likely expect Warner Bros. to begin courting another upper-echelon name to attach to the project in the near future. For more on Akira, including a statement from the studio, hit the jump.
http://collider.com/keanu-reeves-akira-2/91421/

**Matt Damon Might Direct and Star in FATHER DAUGHTER TIME: A TALE OF ARMED ROBBERY AND ESKIMO KISSES **Michael Fassbender in Talks for Danny Boyle’s TRANCE **Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" Films May Not Happen **Keanu Reeves in Talks for Live-Action "Akira" Film

Matt Damon Might Direct and Star in FATHER DAUGHTER TIME: A TALE OF ARMED ROBBERY AND ESKIMO KISSES

by Ramses Flores    Posted: May 6th, 2011

Matt Damon may make his directorial debut with the much sought after Matthew Aldrich penned script, Father Daughter Time: A Tale of Armed Robbery and Eskimo Kisses.  Deadline reports that various studios including Paramount and Fox were trying to get their hands on the script, with Warner Bros coming out on top with the winning bid.  There isn’t much known about the film except that the story is about “a man who goes on the lam with his daughter, his accomplice on a three-state crime spree.”   Aldrich describes the film as “not high concept, it’s a smallish, very personal, dark but playful road movie about a father and daughter.”  For my thoughts on the project and what else Damon is involved in, hit the jump.
..... http://collider.com/matt-damon-father-daughter-time-tale-of-armed-robbery-eskimo-kisses/89465/

Michael Fassbender in Talks for Danny Boyle’s TRANCE

by Bill Graham    Posted: May 6th, 2011

Michael Fassbender has had a hell of a year, and we aren’t even at the halfway point. He recently landed a role in Ridley Scott’s return to science fiction, Prometheus — now the actor is eyeing Danny Boyle’s next film, Trance. According to THR (who refers to the film as “Trances“), Fassbender is in talks to become the first cast member to join Boyle’s fast-tracked film. The film is a remake of Joe Ahearne’s 2003 art heist TV movie aptly named Trance. Hit the jump for a lengthy synopsis, the potential role of Fassbender, and why the film is being put in fast-forward.
... http://collider.com/michael-fassbender-trance/89479/

Matt Damon Wants to Direct "Father Daughter Time"

Posted: May 7th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Warner Bros ia finalizing a deal to acquire "Father Daughter Time: A Tale of Armed Robbery and Eskimo Kisses," a script written by Matthew Aldrich (Cleaner).

Matt Damon and Ben Affleck will produce the film through their Pearl Street company. Damon is also considering starring and making his feature directing debut.

The script focuses on a man who goes on the lam with his daughter, his accomplice on a three-state crime spree. "The script is not high concept, it's a smallish, very personal, dark but playful road movie about a father and daughter," said Aldrich.

Source: Deadline



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21576&count=0

 

 

 

Michael Fassbender in Talks for Danny Boyle's "Trance"

Posted: May 7th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Two days ago we reported that Danny Boyle (127 Hours, Slumdog Millionaire, 28 Days Later) is setting up "Trance" thriller as his next film.

The plan is to begin filming in September and then put everything on hold so Boyle can focus on the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony. In August of 2012, Boyle will return to the film and have it ready by March of 2013.

Since everyone is in a hurry to get started, casting is already underway. Variety has learned that Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, Inglourious Basterds) is in talks to play the lead in the film which is described as a thriller about an art heist gone wrong.

Source: Variety



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21577&count=0

Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" Films May Not Happen

Posted: May 6th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Universal Pictures has been planning to turn Stephen King's novel series "The Dark Tower" into three feature films with a TV mini-series in between each film. Ron Howard is on board to direct, Akiva Goldsman wrote the script and Javier Bardem is set to star.

Unfortunately, there are big problems and the planned September start date has already been pushed back. The studio is now worried about the budget and may consider handing the franchise to another studio, which could mean the end of "The Dark Tower."

Many believe that Howard and Goldsman will not let the project die and some of the options are for Goldsman to take it to Warner Bros, which may fund it the films on its own or with Universal. At this point, the May 17th, 2013 is still in place, but that may change very soon. Stay tuned.

Source: Deadline



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21574&count=0

 

 

Keanu Reeves in Talks for Live-Action "Akira" Film

Posted: May 6th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Over the years, actors like Brad Pitt, Justin Timberlake, James Franco, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Fassbender, Zac Efron and Robert Pattinson have been attached to the live-action "Akira" film, to be directed by Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli).

THR has now learned that Warner Bros is in talks with Keanu Reeves to play Kaneda, the gang leader. An offer has yet to be made, but sources claim that negotiations are going well.

In the script, the action moves from Neon-Tokyo to New Manhattan, where a biker gang leader tries to save his best friend from a medical experiment that threatens to unleash destructive powers.

The studio believes that bringing Reeves on board would give the project a better chance or getting another A-lister to take the role of Tetsuo, the best friend.

Source: THR



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21572&count=0

 

**Keanu Reeves in Talks for AKIRA? [UPDATED] **Will Smith Frontrunner for Tarantino’s DJANGO UNCHAINED; Christoph Waltz Confirmed to Star **Casting Call: Vincent D’Onofrio, Chelsea Handler, and Eric Bogosian Join MALL; Walton Goggins Set for Indie Drama OFFICER DOWN **Laura Linney to Star Opposite Bill Murray in HYDE PARK ON THE HUDSON; Ricky Gervais’ Voice Joins SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD

Casting Call: Vincent D’Onofrio, Chelsea Handler, and Eric Bogosian Join MALL; Walton Goggins Set for Indie Drama OFFICER DOWN

by Adam Chitwood   Posted: May 6th, 2011

We’ve got a couple of casting stories for you today. First up, Vincent D’Onofrio, Chelsea Handler and Eric Bogoslan will star in an adaptation of Bogoslan’s novel Mall, the directorial debut of Linkin Park’s Joe Hahn. Deadline reports that the film will tell the intersecting stories of five suburbanites: “a stoner teen, a restless housewife, a voyeuristic businessman, a mall security guard and a trigger-happy crystal meth addict who heads to the mall looking for trouble.” Handler will play the dark role of the housewife, D’Onofrio will take on the voyeuristic businessman, and Bogoslan is set to play a store owner. Hahn has directed a number of Linkin Park’s music videos.
Additionally, Walton Goggins (Justified) has joined the cast of the indie drama Officer Down. The film stars David Boreanaz, Stephen Dorff, Dominic Purcell (Prison Break) and AnnaLynne McCord (90210) and centers on a doctor and security guard who live out each other’s daytime lives in their dreams at night. The security guard murders his wife, but is then hit by a car and is brought in to the hospital that he doctor works at, where they recognize each other. Deadline reports that Goggins will play the prime suspect in the sexual assault of a young woman, a case being investigated by Dorff’s character. Hit the jump to read a synopsis of the novel Mall.
.... http://collider.com/vincent-donofrio-chelsea-handler-eric-bogosian-mall-walton-goggins-officer-down/89415/

Keanu Reeves in Talks for AKIRA? [UPDATED]

by Adam Chitwood   Posted: May 6th, 2011

The live-action version of Akira may actually be happening. After Warner Bros. secured a co-financer for the $230 million pricetag (Legendary Pictures, who just recently backed out of the deal), and Harry Potter screenwriter Steve Kloves turned in a rewrite of the script that had everyone eager to get going, producers began searching for their cast. Directors the Hughes brothers have been searching for an A-lister with global appeal to star in the flick (you don’t gamble that amount of money without ensuring that you’re gonna rake in serious international revenue), but for a while it seemed like they were searching in vain.
Now, Vulture reports that Keanu Reeves is in very early talks to take on the starring role in the film. Based upon the manga and the 1988 anime adaptation, Akira centers on teenager Shōtarō Kaneda and his quest to stop his friend Tetsuo from destroying Neo-Tokyo. Hit the jump for more on the project.
[Update: Heat Vision reports that Reeves is in talks for the role of Kaneda, the gang leader.]
................ http://collider.com/keanu-reeves-akira/89419/

Laura Linney to Star Opposite Bill Murray in HYDE PARK ON THE HUDSON; Ricky Gervais’ Voice Joins SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD

by Ramses Flores    Posted: May 6th, 2011

Laura Linney (The Big C) will star alongside Bill Murray in Hyde Park on the Hudson.  The film focuses on FDR’s love affair with his cousin, Daisy, during a June weekend in 1939 when the British King and Queen visited Roosevelt’s upstate New York cottage in what was the first ever visit to America by a member of the British monarchy.  As we previously reported, the notoriously reclusive Bill Murray has signed on to star as FDR.  Now, Deadline reports that Linney has signed on to play FDR’s cousin/lover, Daisy.  I’ll watch anything with Bill Murray and it’ll be interesting to see who will end up playing Eleanor Roosevelt along with the King and Queen.  Roger Mitchell (Morning Glory) will direct the film.
In other casting news, Ricky Gervais has signed on to voice the character of Argonaut in the upcoming Spy Kids film, Spy Kids: All the Time in the World.   In the press release Gervais said, “Not only am I lending my voice to Spy Kids, but they can keep it.  I’m sick of it.”  Not much is known about Argonaut besides the fact that he is a robot spy dog.  Gervais joins the cast which already includes Jessica Alba, Jeremy Piven, Joel McHale, Rowan Blanchard, Mason Cook, Antonio Banderas, Danny Trejo , Alexa Vega, and Daryl Sabara.  Spy Kids: All the Time in the World opens on August 19, 2011 and it’s written and directed by Robert Rodriguez.  Hit the jump  for the synopsis.
.......... http://collider.com/laura-linney-hyde-park-on-the-hudson-ricky-gervais-spy-kids-all-the-time-in-the-world/89451/

Will Smith Frontrunner for Tarantino’s DJANGO UNCHAINED; Christoph Waltz Confirmed to Star

by Ramses Flores    Posted: May 6th, 2011

Will Smith has been informally offered the lead role in Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming “Southern”/Spaghetti Western, Django Unchained.  The project came out of nowhere last week and we’ve slowly been getting more details about the film during the past couple of days.  We know that Tarantino is aiming to start production in late summer or fall and we also have this plot synopsis:

“Django is a freed slave, who, under the tutelage of a German bounty hunter becomes a bad-ass bounty hunter himself, and after assisting Waltz in taking down some bad guys for profit, is helped by Waltz in tracking down his slave wife and liberating her from an evil plantation owner.”

The film is moving at a fast pace and we now have some info regarding who Tarantino is hoping to cast and which roles they play.  Here’s a hint:  Christoph Waltz and Samuel L. Jackson.  Hit the jump for more.
... http://collider.com/will-smith-django-unchained-christoph-waltz/89456/

**AKIRA Shortlist: Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield, James McAvoy, Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake, Joaquin Phoenix **Michael C. Hall and Sarah Silverman Interview PEEP WORLD

Michael C. Hall and Sarah Silverman Interview PEEP WORLD
by Christina Radish Posted: March 21st, 2011
In the comedy Peep World, four siblings come together on the day of the 70th birthday party of family patriarch Henry (Ron Rifkin), to deal with the ramifications of a novel that was written by the youngest sibling, Nathan (Ben Schwartz), who has exposed the family’s most intimate secrets by publishing it. To make matters even worse, the floundering Jack (Michael C. Hall), struggling actress Cheri (Sarah Silverman) and black sheep Joel (Rainn Wilson) must all deal with the horribly unflattering versions of themselves that are now being portrayed in the film adaptation of their lives.


At the film’s press day, co-stars Michael C. Hall and Sarah Silverman talked about what drew them to these roles, dealing with family secrets, and getting to improvise on set. Sarah also talked about her upcoming role in Take This Waltz, written and directed by Sarah Polley and starring Michelle Williams and Seth Rogen, and Michael said he begins shooting Season 6 of Dexter in May. Check out what they had to say after the jump:
....read more; http://collider.com/michael-c-hall-and-sarah-silverman-interview-peep-world/80633/

 



AKIRA Shortlist: Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield, James McAvoy, Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake, Joaquin Phoenix
by Brendan Bettinger Posted: March 21st, 2011
The live-action remake of Akira is on its way, folks, thanks in large part to the pen of Steve Kloves (the Harry Potter series). Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures are reportedly very pleased with Kloves’ rewrite and eager to get Akira in front of cameras in August. Recent casting rumors have been all over the place for the teenage main characters Kaneda and Tetsuo: from Zac Efron (23) to James Franco (32) to Brad Pitt (47). The implication has been that the studio is seeking a “massive star” to anchor the film, which apparently leads to some leeway in the agery. Deadline lists the actors that have received a script from the studio:




•For Tetsuo: Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield, James McAvoy
•For Kaneda: Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake, Joaquin Phoenix


The Hughes brothers (Book of Eli) are on board to direct Akira, which adapts Katsuhiro Otomo’s 6-volume manga. The plan is to make two films, each of which covers three books in the series, as producer Andrew Lazar told us last summer. Hit the jump for more information on the project and background on the story.
....read more; http://collider.com/akira-robert-pattinson-justin-timberlake-chris-pine/81734/

**"RoboCop" and "Poltergeist" Remakes Moving Forward **Brad Pitt was Offered Lead in "Akira" **Sarah Jessica Parker Wants "Sex and the City 3" in 5 Years **Darren Aronofsky's "Noah" to Tell Uncensored Story

"RoboCop" and "Poltergeist" Remakes Moving Forward

Posted: February 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff

Variety has learned that part of its first post-bankruptcy deal, MGM is moving forward with remakes of 1980s films "Mr Mom," "The Idolmaker," "Robocop" and "Poltergeist."

"Mr. Mom" was directed by Stan Dragoti and written by John Hughes about a stay-at-home dad (Michael Keaton). "The Idolmaker" was directed by Taylor Hackford and starred Ray Sharkey as a mercenary music promoter who takes on two boys with the intent of turning them into teen idols.

"RoboCop" was directed by Paul Verhoeven about a terminally wounded cop who returns to the force as a powerful cyborg with submerged memories haunting him. "Poltergeist" was written by Steven Spielberg and is about a family's home that is haunted by ghosts.

Source: Variety


Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=20702&count=0

 

 

 

 

Brad Pitt was Offered Lead in "Akira"

Posted: February 18th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff

NY Mag has learned that while putting together a big screen version of "Akira," the Hughes brothers (The Book of Eli) and Warner Bros have been in talks with some of Hollywood's biggest names to star in the big budget film.

Earlier in the week, Warners president Jeff Robinov called Brad Pitt and offered him the lead role of Kaneda, a character that's supposed to be at least 20 years younger than Pitt. The actor passed, but James Franco and Mila Kunis were still in talks to play Tetsuo and Kei.

It turns out that both Franco and Kunis just passed as well, both deciding to instead star in Sam Raimi's "The Wizard of Oz" prequel. This means that "Akira" is now on hold until a big-name actor is hired.

Source: NY Mag


Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=20709&count=0

 

 

 

Sarah Jessica Parker Wants "Sex and the City 3" in 5 Years

Posted: February 17th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff

Earlier this month, "Sex and the City" director Michael Patrick King revealed that he is focusing on developing a prequel to the two movies based on Candace Bushnell's "The Carrie Diaries," which centers on Carrie's high school years in Connecticut. And he wants Blake Lively (The Town) to play the young Carrie.

But in an interview with LA Times, Sarah Jessica Parker revealed that she's not ready to give up on the franchise. "I would go back," she said. "I think there's one more story to tell. I know there is. I'd definitely tell that [third] story, and I know Michael would do it right. But maybe not now. Maybe in five years."

Parker went on to say that she feels the "Sex and the City" prequel with the same characters is not needed. "[When I heard about the prequel], I was like, Wha-a-a-a-t?'," she said. "I don't think we can go back. It's creating two histories. It's like, 'Oh I didn't know that about Carrie Bradshaw.'"

Source: LA Times


Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=20700&count=0

 

 

 

Darren Aronofsky's "Noah" to Tell Uncensored Story

Posted: February 17th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Darren Aronofsky is working on a "Noah" movie that is based on the biblical Noah's Ark story. Aronofsky has already written a script, but will first tell the story in the form of a comic book in hopes to later secure financing for the movie.

He now tells LA Times that if the movie ever gets made, it will be R-rated and will revolve around a complicated character tormented by surviving an apocalypse. Parts of the story will include details that kids don't necessarily learn.

"I was stunned going back and realizing how dirty some of those stories are," said Aronofsky. "They're not PG in any way. They're all about sleeping with your brother's sister who gives you a child who you don't know. That kind of stuff got censored out of our religious upbringing."

Source: LA Times


Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=20701&count=0

***ET Set Visit WATER FOR ELEPHANTS ***Confirmed: Phillip Noyce to Direct HUNTER KILLER ***Mila Kunis to Play Wicked Witch of the West in Sam Raimi’s OZ, THE GREAT AND POWERFUL; Plus Behind-the-Scenes Wrangling on AKIRA ***Shane Black to Direct IRON MAN 3!

Shane Black to Direct IRON MAN 3!

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: February 17th, 2011

Last week, we reported the exciting news that Shane Black (Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang) might write and direct Iron Man 3 now that Jon Favreau was off the project and directing Magic Kingdom instead.  Now, Deadline is reporting that Shane Black will re-team with Robert Downey Jr. and direct Iron Man 3.  As to whether or not he’ll write the flick, a source tells Deadline “That’s not figured out.” I say let Black write it. There–I just figured it out.  You’re welcome, Marvel.

This is terrific news for a variety of reasons.  First off, it means that we most likely won’t have to wait past 2013 for a new Shane Black film (Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang came out in 2005 and Iron Man 3 is set for May 3, 2013). Secondly, while Kiss Kiss was Black’s directorial debut, it showed a sharp eye for comic-timing, striking visuals, and mood, and while the stakes and the technical issues become much larger with a movie like Iron Man 3, Black isn’t a rookie to this business and I know he’ll have the confidence to handle the production.  Finally, a successful Iron Man 3 could help Black get other projects off the ground.  He’s also attached to direct an adaptation of pulp hero Doc Savage and the manga Death Note, but I don’t know if he’ll be able to squeeze one of those in before heading to work on Iron Man 3.  However his schedule shakes out, I’m overjoyed that a phenomenal screenwriter and incredibly promising director like Black is coming on board the Iron Man franchise.

...............

http://collider.com/iron-man-3-shane-black/76695/

ET Set Visit WATER FOR ELEPHANTS

by Jason Barr    Posted: February 17th, 2011

Hitting theaters later this year on April 22nd is Francis Lawrence’s (I Am Legend) adaptation of the Sara Gruen novel Water for Elephants. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson, and Christoph Waltz, Water for Elephants tells the story of a vet school student (Pattinson) who falls in love with an already married circus performer (Witherspoon) while caring for one of the show’s elephants. Having not read the book, I can’t offer a ton of insight as to what you can expect from the film adaptation. That said, I have been impressed with some of the cinematography on display in its theatrical trailer.

If you’d like to know a little more about the project, hit the jump to check out a set visit video courtesy of Entertainment Tonight. Slight Spoiler Alert: ET is very interested in finding out how attracted Witherspoon and Pattinson are to each other.

..........................

http://collider.com/water-for-elephants-et-set-visit/76701/

Mila Kunis to Play Wicked Witch of the West in Sam Raimi’s OZ, THE GREAT AND POWERFUL; Plus Behind-the-Scenes Wrangling on AKIRA

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: February 17th, 2011

Mila Kunis has signed on to play Theodora, the Wicked Witch of the West in Sam Raimi’s Oz, The Great and Powerful.  Vulture reports that James Franco, who was previously in talks to play the Wizard, decided to sign on once Kunis came on board.  This new spin on The Wizard of Oz centers on the eponymous character’s origin as well as the backstory to Glenda, the Good Witch of the North, and Evanorah, the Wicked Witch of the East (aka the Wicked Witch of Getting Smushed by Dorothy Gale’s House).

Interestingly, Kunis was considering re-teaming with The Hughes Brothers (The Book of Eli) to play Kei, the love-interest of main character Kaneda, in his adaptation of the acclaimed manga/anime Akira.  According to Vulture, Warner Bros. was willing to have Kunis play the part but only if they could get a major star to play Kaneda due to the project’s hefty price tag.  The role was offered to Brad Pitt (who is waaaay too old to play the teenage Kaneda of the manga) but he passed and therefore the project can’t start because Warners needs to find an actor who’s right for the part (read: can draw a worldwide audience) and available (although with no set start date, it seems like the project would be built around the lead actor’s availability). Faced with an unknown start-date for Akira and a July start for Oz, Kunis chose the latter.

....................

http://collider.com/mila-kunis-oz-the-great-and-powerful-akira/76705/

Confirmed: Phillip Noyce to Direct HUNTER KILLER

by Jason Barr    Posted: February 17th, 2011

Earlier this week, we reported that director Phillip Noyce (Salt) was in talks with Relativity Media to helm the international action-thriller/submarine flick (yep, it’s a real genre) Hunter Killer. Today, we have confirmation on that report as Noyce has officially signed on to the project. Per THR, Noyce is looking to begin shooting the picture later this year.

In case you missed it last time, Hunter Killer is based on the upcoming novel Firing Point by George Wallace and Don Keith. The film, penned by Jamie Moss (X-Men: First Class), Arne Schmidt (Chain Reaction), and John Kolvenbach (Coney Island), conjoins an American submarine commander and a Navy SEAL in an attempt to rescue the Russian president from a renegade admiral. Neal Moritz and Toby Jaffe of Original Films will team-up with Relativity’s Ryan Kavanaugh and Tucker Tooley to produce Hunter Killer.

............... http://collider.com/phillip-noyce-hunter-killer-2/76712/

***Leonardo DiCaprio: 'J. Edgar' Filming with Armie Hammer ***Gerard Butler: 'Mavericks' Mentor! ***Mila Kunis Covers 'W' Magazine March 2011 ***Cameron Diaz: Kid's Choice Awards Nominee! ***James Franco: Akira Manga Man! Exclusive!

Fri, 11 February 2011

Leonardo DiCaprio: 'J. Edgar' Filming with Armie Hammer

Leonardo DiCaprio and Armie Hammer look dapper in tuxedos while filming scenes for J. Edgar on Thursday (February 10) in Los Angeles.
Also spotted on set: co-star Judi Dench, who plays J. Edgar Hoover’s mother, Anna Marie, and the film’s director Clint Eastwood.
The day before, Leo smoked a cigar and wore white pajamas on the movie’s set.
Armie portrays Clyde Tolson, J. Edgar’s number two man at the FBI and his rumored secret lover.

http://justjared.buzznet.com/2011/02/11/leonardo-dicaprio-j-edgar-filming-with-armie-hammer/


Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/2/#ixzz1Dk8xcttx

Fri, 11 February 2011

Gerard Butler: 'Mavericks' Mentor!

Gerard Butler is set to star in Mavericks, an upcoming film based on the true story of surfer Jay Moriarty, according to Deadline.
The 41-year-old Scottish stud will play the mentor to Jay, who made it his “quest to ride the treacherous Northern California breaks known as Mavericks, where winter swells create waves the size of five-story buildings.”
Rick “Frosty” Hesson, Gerard’s character, trained Moriarity for over a year and forged a close relationship with the surfer in the process.
ARE YOU EXCITED to watch Gerard Butler in Mavericks?

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/3/#ixzz1Dk7sJ0qQ

Fri, 11 February 2011

Mila Kunis Covers 'W' Magazine March 2011

Mila Kunis heats up the cover of W Magazine’s March 2011 issue, which hits newsstands on February 25.

Here is what the 27-year-old Black Swan actress had to share with the mag:

On her dance training for the film: “I had never danced in my life. I trained for four months, seven days a week, five hours a day. I had one day off on my birthday. I lost 20 pounds. I tore a ligament. I dislocated my shoulder. I have two scars on my back. And it was worth every minute. But I will never dance again… I was like, Well—I wear heels; I can do this. I was wrong: Christian Louboutins are uncomfortable, but I screamed the first time I put on a pointe shoe.”

On watching herself in Black Swan: “Before I started, I couldn’t even lift my arm properly. I literally had no posture, so, yeah, the first time I saw the movie, my jaw dropped. I was like, Oh, my God—I don’t suck. And it’s great that the performance has been captured on film, because I will never put on those pointe shoes again.”

On one of her first roles: “I was on Baywatch twice. The second time, I played a blind girl who’s lost in the forest next to the beach and needs to be saved. It was absurd: There’s a fire, I get saved, and then I go boogie-boarding. I remember thinking, Well, if I’m blind, how am I boogie-boarding? No one ever gave me an answer.”

For more with Mila, check out wmagazine.com!

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/4/#ixzz1Dk7f4gCE

Fri, 11 February 2011

Cameron Diaz: Kid's Choice Awards Nominee!

Cameron Diaz waits for her car at the valet after having lunch with boyfriend Alex Rodriguez on Thursday (November 10) in Miami, Fla.

The 38-year-old actress was just nominated for a Kid’s Choice Award for Favorite Voice in an Animated Film for her work in Shrek Forever After.

“Well, as everyone knows, the kids know their stuff, so I’m always very flattered to be their choice for anything,” Cameron told People. “After all these years, Fiona is very close to my heart and it’s awesome to know that kids around the world love her as much as I do.”

10+ pictures inside of Cameron Diaz grabbing lunch…

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/4/#ixzz1Dk7Si3Cc

Fri, 11 February 2011

James Franco: Akira Manga Man! Exclusive!

James Franco is in talks to star as the lead role Kaneda in the live action feature-film Akira, JustJared.com has exclusively confirmed.

The flick will be based off of anime artist Katsuhiro Otomo’s six-volume cyberpunk manga (Japanese word for comics). The film is set in New Manhattan, where the leader of a biker gang saves his friend from a medical experiment.

Warner Bros. has tapped director Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli) to helm the project, along with Leonardo DiCaprio’s production company Appian Way.

James, who is co-hosting the Academy Awards later this month with Anne Hathaway, unsurprisingly has been getting roles offered to him left and right. He also has the opportunity to replace Robert Downey, Jr. as the Wizard of Oz in the upcoming Disney movie Oz: The Great and Powerful. Director Sam Raimi will helm the Wizard of Oz prequel, which is based on L. Frank Baum’s classic books.

WHAT DO YOU THINK James Franco will choose to star in — Oz or Akira?

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/4/#ixzz1Dk7KXlSi