***Clint Eastwood Wants Leonard DiCaprio to Join Beyoncé in A STAR IS BORN ***David Strathairn Cast as William Seward in Steven Spielberg’s LINCOLN ***Casting Call: Nicole Kidman in Talks for THE PAPERBOY as Tobey Maguire Drops Out, John Goodman Joins Ben Affleck’s ARGO

Clint Eastwood Wants Leonard DiCaprio to Join Beyoncé in A STAR IS BORN

by Jason Barr    Posted: June 27th, 2011

I’m sure plenty of filmmakers want Leonardo DiCaprio to star in their film. That said, there aren’t many working directors who have the type of clout that Clint Eastwood carries around. So, although it is anything but a done deal, when we hear that Eastwood is courting DiCaprio for his take on the musical A Star Is Born, it becomes news. Deadline reports that the director is using his time with DiCaprio on their J. Edgar Hoover biopic to discuss the possibility of him joining the pic which is set up at Warner Bros.

There has long been talk that Will Smith would join Beyoncé in the film as the aging alcoholic star who sparks a relationship with the up-and-coming beauty. While those rumors are free to continue circulating, Eastwood’s apparent interest in DiCaprio may very well steal some of its thunder for the time being. There have been several theatrical versions of A Star Is Born to grace the silver screen with the 1976 version pairing Kris Kristofferson and Barbra Streisand and 1954′s starring James Mason and Judy Garland. Will Fetters (Remember Me) wrote the script for the upcoming remake. http://collider.com/leonardo-dicaprio-a-star-is-born-clint-eastwood/99087/

David Strathairn Cast as William Seward in Steven Spielberg’s LINCOLN

by Jason Barr    Posted: June 27th, 2011

Oscar-nominee David Strathairn (Good Night, and Good Luck.) has been cast in the Steven Spielberg-directed Abraham Lincoln biopic, Lincoln. Straithairn will make a turn as Lincoln’s Secretary of State, William Seward, in the film which is scheduled to begin filming this fall in Virginia in time for a fourth quarter 2012 (a.k.a. “Oscar season”) theatrical release. The actor joins a cast that already includes Daniel Day-Lewis in the title role and Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln. Spielberg had this to say of Strathairn’s casting:

“Throughout his career, David Strathairn has consistently delivered  performances of strength and character. That’s why I am so pleased that he will portray the Secretary of State, who became such a dominant figure in Lincoln’s ‘team of rivals’ cabinet.”

For those unaware, Lincoln is written by Oscar-nominee Tony Kushner (Munich) and is based on the Doris Kearns Goodwin book, Team of Rivals. Last month, we reported that Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon Levitt, James Spader, John Hawkes and several others were in serious talks to join the pic as well. As for Strathairn, he can next be seen alongside Rachel Weisz in the drama The Whistleblower which hits U.S. theaters on August 5th. Hit the jump to check out a synopsis of Goodwin’s book.  http://collider.com/david-strathairn-lincoln/99090/

Casting Call: Nicole Kidman in Talks for THE PAPERBOY as Tobey Maguire Drops Out, John Goodman Joins Ben Affleck’s ARGO

by Adam Chitwood   Posted: June 27th, 2011

We’ve got a couple more casting stories for you today. First up, Nicole Kidman is now in talks to join the cast of Lee Daniels’ (Precious) adaptation of Pete Dexter’s novel The Paperboy. THR reports that Kidman would replace Sofia Vergara, who was forced to drop out after Tobey Maguire’s exit from the project shifted the schedule, imposing on her Modern Family shoot. Matthew McConaughey and Zac Efron are apparently still attached to star in the film, which centers on the slacker son of a newspaper editor in Florida, who gets wrapped up in investigating a murder case. Filming is set to begin later this summer.
Hit the jump for the news of John Goodman joining Ben Affleck’s directorial vehicle Argo, as well as a synopsis for the novel The Paperboy. http://collider.com/nicole-kidman-the-paperboy-john-goodman-argo/99041/

31 may; HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Born Today

Clint Eastwood (81)

 

Colin Farrell (35)

 

Archie Panjabi (39)

 

Lea Thompson (50)

 

Brooke Shields (46)

 

Eric Christian Olsen 34

 

 

Tom Berenger 62

 

Jonathan Tucker 29

 

http://www.imdb.com/search/name?birth_monthday=05-31

***Leonardo Dicaprio is seen playing J. Edgar Hoover on the set of "J Edgar" ***Nicole Kidman & Colin Firth: 'Stoker' Stars? ***Jude Law: Backpacking in the Bay Area

Leonardo Dicaprio is seen playing J. Edgar Hoover on the set of "J Edgar", directed by Clint Eastwood

 

Leonardo Dicaprio is seen playing J. Edgar Hoover on the set of "J Edgar", directed by Clint Eastwood

In This Photo: Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo Dicaprio is seen playing J. Edgar Hoover on the set of "J Edgar", directed by Clint Eastwood. The filming was taking place in Downtown LA.

( February 11, 2011 - Photo by PacificCoastNews.com)

http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/5tHdVaJ1kpn/Leonardo+Dicaprio+seen+playing+J+Edgar+Hoover

 

 

Clint Eastwood On The Set Of 'J. Edgar' In Los Angeles

Director Clint Eastwood working on the set of 'J. Edgar' in Los Angeles, CA. 'J. Edgar' is a biopic on former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.

( February 11, 2011 - Photo by Photo Agency) http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/d_OIFHv6xhH/Clint+Eastwood+Set+J+Edgar+Los+Angeles

 

 

 

Sat, 12 February 2011

Nicole Kidman & Colin Firth: 'Stoker' Stars?

Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth are both in talks to join the mystery-drama Stoker, the L.A. Times reports.

The film, written by Wentworth Miller and helmed by South Korean filmmaker Chan Wook-Park, centers around a girl and her mother who are visited by a mysterious uncle after India’s father dies.

Nicole would play the mother with Colin as the uncle and Mia Wasikowska as the girl, India Stoker.

Colin has also signed on to star in the Joel and Ethan Coen-scripted remake of Gambit with Cameron Diaz.

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/#ixzz1Dk9ltZvS

 

 

 

 

Fri, 11 February 2011

Jude Law: Backpacking in the Bay Area

Jude Law carries a backpack while filming scenes for his upcoming movie, Contagion, on Friday (February 11) in San Francisco, Calif.
The day before, the 38-year-old actor waved to photographers as he arrived on the film’s set.
The action thriller also stars Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Marion Cotillard, and Kate Winslet.
Earlier this week, Jude announced he and Sienna Miller had split.

http://justjared.buzznet.com/2011/02/11/jude-law-backpacking-bay-area/
Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/2/#ixzz1Dk9V4j8B

***Gary Ross’ THE HUNGER GAMES Releases March 23, 2012 ***Emile Hirsch Likes THE MOTEL LIFE ***Naomi Watts Joins Leonardo DiCaprio in J. EDGAR

Gary Ross’ THE HUNGER GAMES Releases March 23, 2012

by Jason Barr    Posted: January 25th, 2011

Four-time Oscar-nominee Gary Ross’ (Pleasantville) The Hunger Games will hit theaters on March 23rd, 2012.  Lionsgate announced that it plans to roll out the film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ best-selling novel (the first in a trilogy) on a weekend that, at present time, contains no competition for the high-profile project.  The film will most likely begin shooting later this year, either towards the end of spring or beginning of summer.

For those unfamiliar with the source material, Collins’ The Hunger Games is set in a post-apocalyptic America and follows the trials of 16-year-old protagonist Katniss Everdeen.  Per Heat Vision, Katniss “must participate in a fight-to-the-death annual event called the Hunger Games.”  While I haven’t read the book trilogy, Ross’ Pleasantville is one of my all-time favorite films and, as a result, each of his projects from here-on-out gets complimentary box-office dollars on my behalf.  For more on the project, hit the jump for a synopsis of the original novel.

Here’s the synopsis for Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games [via Amazon]:

.....

http://collider.com/the-hunger-games-release-date/72620/

Emile Hirsch Likes THE MOTEL LIFE

by Jason Barr    Posted: January 25th, 2011

In what will be his first leading role since making a turn as The Wachowski Brothers’ Speed Racer, Emile Hirsch has signed on to star in the film adaptation of The Motel Life.  Based on the Willy Vlautin novel of the same name, The Motel Life tells the story of two brothers who skip town (that town being Reno) after being involved in a fatal accident.  Hirsch is the first to join the project which currently lacks both a writer and/or director.  That in mind, with production on the film aiming to begin sometime this year, Variety reports that producers Alan and Gabe Polsky may still yet fill the aforementioned positions themselves.

For more on the project, hit the jump to read a synopsis for Vlautin’s novel.

http://collider.com/emile-hirsch-the-motel-life/72625/

Naomi Watts Joins Leonardo DiCaprio in J. EDGAR

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: January 25th, 2011

Clint Eastwood has spent the last few months rounding up an impressive cast for his next film, J. Edgar, a biopic based on the life of inaugural FBI director and alleged cross-dresser J. Edgar Hoover.  There’s Leonardo DiCaprio, Judi Dench, Josh Lucas, plus rising stars Armie Hammer (The Social Network) and Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl).  But the latest name to join the cast is the one that’s locked up this writer’s interest.

Variety reports Naomi Watts will play Helen Gandy, the role originally offered to Charlize Theron before she chose to do Snow White and the Huntsman instead.  Gandy was Hoover’s loyal secretary for 54 years from 1918-1972; Hoover once said of Gandy, “If there is anyone in this Bureau whose services are indispensable I consider Miss Gandy to be that person.”  More background on Gandy after the break:

Hoover biographer Curt Gentry describes Ms. Gandy:

Her genteel manner and pleasant voice contrasted sharply with this domineering presence. Yet behind the politeness was a resolute firmness not unlike his, and no small amount of influence. Many a career in the Bureau had been quietly manipulated by her.
Even those who disliked him, praised her, most often commenting on her remarkable ability to get along with all kinds of people. That she had held her position for fifty-four years was the best evidence of this, for it was a Bureau tradition that the closer you were to him, the more demanding he was. [Wikipedia]

Gandy was effectively the last line of defense for Hoover, who is said to have kept extensive secret files to blackmail the likes of Eleanor Roosevelt and Martin Luther King, Jr.  Gandy purposefully mislabeled some of the more sensitive material so that only she could navigate the files (e.g. President Nixon’s file was labeled “Obscene Matters.)  Upon Hoover’s death in May 1972, Gandy began destroying previously designated files within the hour.

I count Watts among Hollywood’s most dynamic actresses, and I can’t wait to see her play Gandy, who sounds like a spitfire of a woman.  Watts will next be seen opposite Ewan McGregor in The Impossible, and alongside Daniel Craig and Rachel Weisz in Dream House, scheduled for release September 30.

http://collider.com/naomi-watts-j-edgar/72657/

***Katie Holmes & Channing Tatum: 'Son of No One' Trailer ***Olivia Munn: 'Perfect' Time For A Break ***Clint Eastwood & Beyonce: 'A Star is Born' Remake? ***'X-Men: First Class': Time Crunch!

Thu, 20 January 2011

Katie Holmes & Channing Tatum: 'Son of No One' Trailer

Check out the just released trailer for The Son of No One, starring Katie Holmes and Channing Tatum!

Here’s the synopsis of the film, which will close the Sundance Film Festival:

“Son of No One follows two friends (Tatum and Tracy Morgan) forced to face the consequences of a murder they committed — and got away with — 16 years earlier. Tatum’s character Jonathan “Milk” White has gone on to a successful career with the police force and has a happy home life with his wife (Holmes) and child. Morgan’s character, Vinnie has…gone the other way. When Milk is assigned to the precinct where he grew up, his decade-and-a-half-old secret threatens to tear apart his life and his family.”

http://justjared.buzznet.com/2011/01/20/katie-holmes-channing-tatum-son-of-no-one-trailer/

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/#ixzz1BfnmuPLE

 

 

 

Thu, 20 January 2011

Olivia Munn: 'Perfect' Time For A Break

Olivia Munn takes a break from filming I Don’t Know How She Does It on Wednesday (January 19) in New York City.

The 30-year-old The Daily Show correspondent headed over to Sarah Jessica Parker’s trailer to grab lunch.

Outside of the big screen, Olivia’s new show, Perfect Couples, premiered on NBC at 8pm! She plays a self-help obsessed wife in the new couples comedy set in Portland.

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/2/#ixzz1Bfo8qnAN

 

 

 

Thu, 20 January 2011

Clint Eastwood & Beyonce: 'A Star is Born' Remake?

Clint Eastwood may be directing Beyonce in a remake of A Star is Born!

Although no male lead has been cast in the project, Deadline reports that the studio has been hoping to pair Bey with Will Smith!

Beyonce has had a successful on-screen career so far with Obsessed, Cadillac Records, and Dreamgirls.

DO YOU THINK Beyonce is a good choice for A Star is Born remake?

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/2/#ixzz1BfoOEAru

 

 

 

 

 20 January 2011

'X-Men: First Class': Time Crunch!

Check out this shot from the set of X-Men: First Class from the L.A. Times!

The film, out June 3, stars Michael Fassbender as Magneto, Rose Byrne as Moira MacTaggert, January Jones as Emma Frost, and Jason Flemyng as Azazel.

Also starring are Lucas Till as Havok, Zoe Kravitz as Angel, Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique, and James McAvoy as Charles Xavier.

The Times reports that the cast is still at work finishing the film before it hits theaters this summer!

“I’ve never worked under such time pressure,” director Matthew Vaughn said. “The good thing about the independent world is I never even knew if I was going to get distribution. I’m used to finishing a film and then crossing your fingers that someone is going to like it. This is totally doing it the other way around. We’ve definitely got a release date and we’ve got to make it.”

Read more: http://justjared.buzznet.com/page/2/#ixzz1BfoXqCvi

***Clint Eastwood and Beyonce Know A STAR IS BORN ***THE SON OF NO ONE Trailer ***EASY A Director Will Gluck Is Producing a Remake of ABOUT LAST NIGHT for Screen Gems

Clint Eastwood and Beyonce Know A STAR IS BORN

by Jason Barr    Posted: January 20th, 2011

Clint Eastwood and Beyonce will join forces in the latest iteration of the musical A Star is Born for Warner Brothers.  With Beyonce starring and Eastwood both producing and directing Will Fetters’ (Remember Me) script, the film will mark the fourth time A Star is Born has graced the silver screen in the United States.  The most recent version was released in 1976.  That film starred Kris Kristofferson and Barbra Streisand and earned Streisand and lyricist Paul Williams an Oscar for best original song.

For those unfamiliar with the material, A Star is Born tells of a romantic relationship between an alcoholic star on his way out and a young female artist on the rise (in this most recent case, Beyonce).  There is no word on who might fill the coveted role of “aging alcoholic star,” however, Deadline poses that Warner Bros. might have hopes of pairing Beyonce with human-summer-blockbuster Will Smith.  A Star is Born is currently aiming to begin shooting this fall.

http://collider.com/clint-eastwood-beyonce-a-star-is-born/71707/

THE SON OF NO ONE Trailer

by Bill Graham    Posted: January 20th, 2011

The Sundance Film Festival kicked off today and while reviews/news will be pouring in for the next ten days, the trailer for the closing-night film, The Son of No One, has hit the Internet today. Written/directed by Dito Montiel (Fighting), the crime drama tells the story of two friends (Channing Tatum and Tracy Morgan) who must face the consequences of a murder they committed.

In addition to Tatum and Morgan, the film features an impressive cast that also includes Al Pacino, Katie Holmes, Ray Liotta, and Juliette Binoche. One of the more noteworthy aspects of the film is that Morgan, best known for his wild antics on the hilarious NBC comedy 30 Rock, will be playing the film straight.  While fans of him rubbing his bare belly may be disappointed, co-star Tatum told MTV, “I think Tracy Morgan is going to shock the world. Nobody has ever seen him do drama or anything like that.” Hit the jump for the full (mysteriously edited) trailer and synopsis.

Here’s the trailer [from MTV]:

http://collider.com/the-son-of-no-one-movie-trailer/71704/

EASY A Director Will Gluck Is Producing a Remake of ABOUT LAST NIGHT for Screen Gems

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: January 20th, 2011

Writer/director Will Gluck solidified his stature as a comedic voice to watch with last year’s Easy A, one of 2010’s funniest true comedies.  So you can be sure I’m watching closely as Variety reports Gluck is attached to produce a remake of the 1986 Brat Pack romantic comedy About Last Night… The original threw Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Jim Belushi, and Elizabeth Perkins together for an adaptation of the 1974 David Mamet play Sexual Perversity, about “a couple who start a romantic affair despite their friends’ disapproval.”

For now, Gluck is only on board as producer, though he’ll help Screen Gems select a writer and director for the project.  As a director, Gluck has the Justin Timberlake/Mila Kunis comedy Friends with Benefits due July 22, and will reunite with Easy A star Emma Stone for an untitled comedy.  Hit the jump for a trailer and synopsis for the original About Last Night.

“You know what your problem is?  Your face.”  – Jim Belushi

David Mamet’s play Sexual Perversity in Chicago was adapted for the big screen by fellow Chicago citizen Tim Kazurinsky and became About Last Night… The film stars Rob Lowe as Danny and Demi Moore as Debbie. The pair meet and engage in a torrid sexual relationship, but then slowly negotiate if there is anything more between them. Lowe seeks advice from his loudmouthed friend Bernie (Chicago native James Belushi), whose offers little more than outrageous tales of his randy exploits. Debbie confides in her best friend Joan (Elizabeth Perkins), a bitter, single kindergarten teacher who has lost any hope of finding the right person on the dating scene. Although Danny and Debbie talk, they have trouble communicating. [Fandango]

http://collider.com/about-last-night-remake-will-gluck/71767/

***Ed Westwick Joins Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR; Charlize Theron Drops Out, Signs on for SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN, Considers ALIEN Prequel ***C. Thomas Howell Cast in SPIDER-MAN Reboot; Michelle Pfeiffer Takes on WELCOME TO PEOPLE

Ed Westwick Joins Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR; Charlize Theron Drops Out, Signs on for SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN, Considers ALIEN Prequel

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: January 10th, 2011

Some casting shake-ups on Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar Hoover biopic J. Edgar today: Ed Westwick (Gossip Girl) officially joins the cast, while Charlize Theron opts not to take on the role of Hoover’s secretary. Westwick is set to play a clean cut operative who, after being assigned to write Hoover’s biography, begins to dig a little too deep into the enigmatic FBI director’s life. A few days ago, we told you that Armie Hammer (The Social Network) had signed on to star as Hoover’s lover and confidant Clyde Tolson opposite Leonardo Dicaprio as Hoover himself. Damon Herriman (FX’s Justified) and Dame Judi Dench round out the cast announced thus far, with Dench portraying Hoover’s mother. Deadline reports that Eastwood is now looking to cast either Amy Adams or Naomi Watts in the role of Hoover’s secretary.

Vulture reports that Theron, who was never officially attached to the film, has ultimately decided not to take part in the film. Instead, the actress has signed on to star in Rupert Sanders’ Snow White and the Huntsman, and may be mulling over Ridley Scott’s Alien prequel. More after the jump.

In addition to reporting Westwick’s addition to the cast of J. Edgar, Deadline also says Theron has officially signed on for Snow White and the Huntsman. Back in October, we told you that she was eying the role of the evil queen in the film Now it appears she’s decided to star in the film after-all. With little movement on the flick as of late (other than more casting rumors), this could mean that production is gearing to start up soon.

Now on to that Alien rumor: While there’s no official word on this, and casting rumors regarding the Alien prequel have run rampant the past few months (not to mention highly inaccurately), Vulture is reporting that Theron will “get the new version of the Alien script sometime this week and make her decision soon.” They claim that Fox execs are keen on grabbing a big name star for the project, while Scott is partial towards Noomi Rapace (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo). Apparently, if Scott casts Rapace as the star, the studio wants a big name actress to take on the supporting role of “Vickers.” This supporting role is apparently being expanded, and that’s the role that Theron is looking towards when she reads the script. Take this with a grain of salt, as there’s been little official news on the project as of late other than the denial of all previous casting rumors/supposed plot details.

Theron is currently filming director Jason Reitman’s Young Adult, from a script by Diablo Cody (Juno). The film stars Patrick Wilson and Patton Oswalt and is set to be released sometime this year.

http://collider.com/ed-westwick-j-edgar-charlize-theron-show-white/69322/

C. Thomas Howell Cast in SPIDER-MAN Reboot; Michelle Pfeiffer Takes on WELCOME TO PEOPLE

by Jason Barr    Posted: January 10th, 2011

We have a couple additional casting tidbits to send your way tonight.  First up, C. Thomas Howell (The Outsiders) has been cast in an unspecified role for Marc Webb’s Spider-Man reboot.  Per Cinema Blend (via Italy’s own Bad Taste), Howell confirmed his casting via his personal Facebook page and is set to join the film’s shoot (which is already in progress in L.A.) on January 25th.  Howell joins a cast that includes Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Sally Field, and Martin Sheen.  The Spider-Man reboot hits theaters July 3rd, 2012.

Next up, the cast for Alex Kurtzman’s (co-writer Cowboys and Aliens) Welcome to People keeps on growing as Michelle Pfeiffer has agreed to join Kurtzman’s directorial debut.  Per EW, Pfeiffer is set to play Chris Pine’s widowed mother in the film which tells the story of an estranged son (Pine) who returns home for his father’s funeral and begins to uncover his secret life in the process.  In addition to Pine and Pfeiffer, Welcome to People also stars Elizabeth Banks and Olivia Wilde.  It begins shooting next week in L.A. with a 2012 theatrical release in mind.

http://collider.com/c-thomas-howell-spider-man-michelle-pfeiffer-welcome-to-people/69316/

***Elijah Wood Confirmed for THE HOBBIT ***Elijah Wood to Cameo in THE HOBBIT? Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis and Orlando Bloom In Talks As Well ***Armie Hammer Offers Details on Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR

Elijah Wood Confirmed for THE HOBBIT

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: January 7th, 2011

Yesterday, we told you about the rumor that Elijah Wood would possibly be appearing in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit films. For once, it looks like the rumors may be true. Wood is apparently now set to reprise his role as Frodo Baggins in both films. We now even know in what capacity he will appear, but since many of you want to remain spoiler-free, we’ll leave that until after the jump.

Wood joins Ian McKellan, Andy Serkis and Orlando Bloom on the growing list of actors from the Lord of the Rings trilogy that are reportedly in talks to appear in Jackson’s Hobbit films. Hit the jump for the details of Frodo’s involvement.

Again, if you want to remain free and clear from plot points regarding The Hobbit, stop reading now.

TheOneRing.net reports that Frodo will apparently appear in the opening sequence of each of The Hobbit films, setting the flicks up as a frame story. As the audience is being told the tale of Bilbo Baggins’ adventures, Frodo will be hearing the story as well. Personally, I think this is a great way for Jackson to bridge The Hobbit films with his LOTR trilogy. Wood’s appearance should serve as nice bookends, and I can only assume that if he appears at the end of the second film I’ll have a burning desire to rush home and throw on The Fellowship of the Ring as quickly as possible.

Not only does this provide an accessible frame story through which the audience can be told Bilbo’s story, it also paves the way for more actors from LOTR to appear in The Hobbit, should Jackson choose to do so. There’s been no confirmation of fellow hobbits Sean Astin, Dominic Monahan or Billy Boyd making an appearance, but it remains a feasible possibility.

So far, the only actors from the LOTR trilogy that have been confirmed to appear in The Hobbit are Cate Blanchett and Hugo Weaving. Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo Baggins and Howard Shore is returning to score the films.  The Hobbit Part I is scheduled to be released in December 2012, with The Hobbit Part II set to follow in December 2013. Peter Jackson will shoot the films in 3D using the new RED EPIC cameras. Click here to catch up on all things Hobbit.

http://collider.com/elijah-wood-the-hobbit-2/68683/

Elijah Wood to Cameo in THE HOBBIT? Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis and Orlando Bloom In Talks As Well

by Jeff Ames    Posted: January 6th, 2011

Will Elijah Wood be in The Hobbit? According to Deadline the answer might be a resounding yes. File this under rumor for now, but supposedly conversations have opened up between the Lord of the Rings star and Warner Bros. regarding a possible Frodo cameo. Not surprisingly, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis and Orlando Bloom are said to be in talks to join Martin Freeman and the ever expanding cast in the much anticipated return to Middle Earth. Of course, every Hobbit fan knows of Gandalf’s and Gollum’s importance to the prequel story, but the tale occurred long before Frodo was a wee lad so where he’ll figure into the proceedings remains anyone’s guess.

In related news from earlier today, Warner Bros. will oversee worldwide distribution of The Hobbit and cover the entire cost of the prequels, which is said to exceed $500 million. How’s that for a Hobbit’s tale?

The first Hobbit film, directed by Peter Jackson, is scheduled for December 2012; part two will follow in December 2013.  Hit the jump for a synopsis from of J. R. R. Tolkien’s book.

Bilbo Baggins, the hobbit, is a peaceful sort of cozy hole in the Shire, a place where adventures are uncommon and rather unwanted. So when the wizard Gandalf whisks him away on a treasure hunting expedition with a troop of rowdy dwarves, he’s not entirely thrilled. Encountering ruthless trolls, beastly orcs, gigantic spiders, and hungry wolves, Bilbo discovers within himself astonishing strength and courage. And at the ultimate confrontation with the fearsome dragon Smaug, the hobbit will brave the dangers of dark and dragon fire alone and unaided. [Amazon]

http://collider.com/elijah-wood-the-hobbit/68626/

Armie Hammer Offers Details on Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: January 7th, 2011

While the filmmakers and cast of The Social Network are making the obligatory pre-Oscar press rounds right now, it’s prime time to get some info on their upcoming projects. Armie Hammer has done just that, as he recently offered up some details on Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar Hoover biopic J. Edgar. Leonardo DiCaprio is reportedly attached to play the title character, with Hammer taking on the role of Hoover’s lover and confidant Clyde Toulson. Apparently the film will span a number of years, with Hammer and DiCaprio donning old-age makeup. Hammer had this to say:

I’m playing Toulson up to his elderly age! Makeup stuff comes within the next couple weeks. We’re definitely doing a lot of wardrobe stuff right now, but the makeup stuff we haven’t done yet.

For more details on the Dustin Lance Black (Milk)-scripted film, including plot points and who Judi Dench is playing, hit the jump.

A couple weeks ago, we told you that Judi Dench had joined the cast in an unspecified role. In speaking with Vulture, Hammer confirmed her addition to the cast and said that she’ll be playing Hoover’s mother. “Really perfect,” Hammer said of her casting.

Apparently, the story mainly follows Hoover and Toulson as young men, but several flash forwards will be scattered throughout the film that show the two as old men in their seventies.  While initially only colleagues, Hoover and Toulson will share an onscreen kiss following an altercation, which then leads to Hoover bringing Toulson in as the FBI director’s right-hand man.

Personally, I’m very much excited to see what Eastwood does with this material. The talent involved is incredible: screenwriter Lance Black won the Oscar for his screenplay for Milk, DiCaprio is one of the greatest actors of his generation, and Hammer showed unbelievable promise in The Social Network. Charlize Theron has also reportedly been offered the role of Hoover’s secretary. Production on J. Edgar is set to begin next month, and with the fast pace at which Eastwood works, it’s feasible that the film could hit theaters by the end of this year.

http://collider.com/armie-hammer-j-edgar/68710/

***Diane Kruger Replacing Eva Green in FAREWELL, MY QUEEN ***2011 Sundance Film Festival Adds SILENT HOUSE ***Judi Dench Joins Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR; Charlize Theron “Leaning Toward” Joining Film ***Trailer for THE OTHER WOMAN Starring Natalie Portman

2011 Sundance Film Festival Adds SILENT HOUSE

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: December 28th, 2010

The Sundance Film Festival has added Silent House to its 2011 lineup.  Silent House is a remake of a Uruguayan horror film, which centers on a father and daughter who spend the night in an old house when they hear a sound that seems to be coming from upstairs.  Elizabeth Olsen, Adam Trese, Eric Sheffer Stevens, Julia Taylor Ross, Haley Murphy, and Adam Barnett star.

Chris Kentis and Laura Lau (Open Water) reportedly filmed Silent Hill in a single continuous shot to capture the growing panic.  I’m a sucker for technique, but that’s enough to hook me.  Hit the jump for the official press release.

2011 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL ADDS SILENT HOUSE TO LINE UP

Filmmaking duo Chris Kentis and Laura Lau Return to Festival with Psychological Thriller

PARK CITY, UT — Sundance Institute announced today that filmmakers Chris Kentis and Laura Lau (Open Water) will return to the Sundance Film Festival with their latest feature, Silent House, which will have its world premiere in the out-of-competition Park City at Midnight section.

The Sundance Film Festival runs January 20-30, 2011 in Park City, Salt Lake City, Ogden and Sundance, Utah. The complete list of films is available at www.sundance.org/festival.

Following Open Water, which screened at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival, filmmaking duo Chris Kentis and Laura Lau once again confront the face of fear in this enthralling psychological thriller. Impressively captured with a continuous camera shot, Silent House tracks the growing panic of its enigmatic lead, Elizabeth Olsen, who’s trapped in an unnerving nightmare. Never ones to be limited by a challenging production, Kentis and Lau mastermind a truly unique horror experience with immediate intimacy and unsettling terror.

With the addition of this film, the Festival will present 118 feature-length films, representing 29 countries by 40 first-time filmmakers, including 25 in competition. These films were selected from 3,812 feature-length film submissions composed of 1,943 U.S. and 1,869 international feature-length films. 95 films at the Festival will be world premieres.

Silent House / U.S.A. (Directors: Chris Kentis & Laura Lau; Screenwriter: Laura Lau) — A hauntingly choreographed descent into madness based on the Uruguayan film La Casa Muda. Cast: Elizabeth Olsen, Adam Trese, Eric Sheffer Stevens, Julia Taylor Ross, Haley Murphy, Adam Barnett. World Premiere

http://collider.com/sundance-2011-silent-house/67019/

Diane Kruger Replacing Eva Green in FAREWELL, MY QUEEN

by Laura Kelley    Posted: December 28th, 2010

Diane Kruger is set to take Eva Green’s place as Marie Antoinette in Benoit Jacquot’s Farewell, My Queen.  The film, set near the end of the French Revolution, is an adaptation of a novel by Chantal Thomas. Kruger joins stars Lea Seydoux as a reader to Antoinette and Gerard Depardieu in an unknown role.  Eva Green is also no longer starring in Michael Mann’s Capa, having been replaced by Gemma Arterton.  Director Benoit Jacquot is probably best known for his films The School of Flesh and The Untouchable.  Farewell, My Queen is set to begin filming sometime next spring.  via ThePlaylist.

http://collider.com/diane-kruger-farewell-my-queen/66999/

Judi Dench Joins Clint Eastwood’s J. EDGAR; Charlize Theron “Leaning Toward” Joining Film

by Jason Barr    Posted: December 28th, 2010

Dame Judi Dench has joined Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar Hoover biopic, J. Edgar.  The Oscar-winner (Shakespeare in Love) will play alongside a confirmed cast that currently includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer (The Social Network), and Damon Herriman (FX’s Justified).  As of yet, there is no word on the nature of Dench’s role.  In 2011, she can be seen with Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender in Jane Eyre and alongside Michelle Williams, Emma Watson, and Kenneth Branagh in My Week with Marilyn.

In related news, The Playlist is also reporting that Charlize Theron is “leaning toward” joining J. Edgar.  If you’ve been following the development of the project, you know that Theron has been offered the role of Helen Gandy (Hoover’s personal secretary).  However, Theron is currently tasked with choosing between J. Edgar and Universal’s tentpole project Snow White and the Huntsman (both films are scheduled to shoot in February 2011). http://collider.com/judi-dench-j-edgar-charlize-theron/66950/

Trailer for THE OTHER WOMAN Starring Natalie Portman

by Max Lichtig    Posted: December 28th, 2010

Just the other day, we brought you the first poster for the Natalie Portman film The Other Woman. Today, the trailer for the film has been released online and shows the gifted Black Swan thespian at it again in another dramatic and poignant role. The film also stars Scott Cohen and Lisa Kudrow. Based on the Ayelet Waldman novel Love and Other Impossible Pursuits, the film tells the story of Emilia (Portman), “a Harvard law school graduate and a newlywed, having just married Jack (Scott Cohen), a high-powered New York lawyer, who was her boss – and married – when she began working at his law firm.” Directed by Don Roos, whose previous credits include helming The Opposite of Sex and writing the screenplay for Marley and Me, the drama is set to be released on Video On Demand by IFC on January 1^st, 2011, but will see a theatrical release on February 4^th.

Check out a synopsis of the novel, as well as the trailer after the jump:

After Black Swan, Natalie Portman has become one of my favorite female actors working in the industry right now. Her performance was so natural and utterly flawless that I have complete confidence she can take on any role. Maybe it’s the fact that she graduated from Harvard (much like her character in The Other Woman) or just an innate brilliance she brings to the screen. Whatever the case, it’s clear she can tackle anything, from psychopathic human/swan hybrids to comedic roles as well (she hosted SNL and was a hilarious guest on Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis from Funny or Die.) Although I am shaken up a bit by the fact that the role of Emilia was originally being eyed by Jennifer Lopez, it looks like this movie has a lot of promise.

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Here’s the synopsis of the novel Love and Other Impossible Pursuits via Amazon:

How a five-year-old manages to make the adults in his life hew to the love he holds for them is the sweet treat in this honest, brutal, bitterly funny slice of life. When Emelia’s day-old daughter, Isabel, succumbs to SIDS, her own life stalls. She can’t work; she can’t sleep; Central Park, once her personal secret garden, now is a minefield of happy mother-child dyads. Since Isabel’s death, husband Jack’s only solace for the guilt of breaking up his sexless marriage with Carolyn for Emelia’s (now-absent) passion and love is joint custody of William, now five. What Emelia cannot bear most are Wednesdays, when she must cross the park to collect William at the 92nd Street Y preschool and take another shot at stepmotherhood. Carolyn, William’s furious mother and a renowned Upper East Side OB/GYN, lives to nab Emelia for mistakes in handling him. Carolyn’s indicting phone calls raise the already sky-high tension in Jack and Emelia’s home, but they don’t compare with Carolyn’s announcement that, at age 42, she is pregnant. The news pushes Emelia to confess to Jack two things she shouldn’t. William is charmingly realized, and Waldman (Daughter’s Keeper) has upper bourgeois New York down cold. The result is a terrific adult story.

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http://collider.com/the-other-woman-trailer/66929/