***New Trailer and Images for KILLER ELITE Starring Jason Statham, Clive Owen, and Robert De Niro ***Viggo Mortensen to Star in THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY, the Directorial Debut of Hossein Amini ***Tom Wilkinson in Talks to Join THE LONE RANGER ***Emma Stone Offered Lead in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES ***Jamie Foxx Confirmed for Quentin Tarantino’s DJANGO UNCHAINED

New Trailer and Images for KILLER ELITE Starring Jason Statham, Clive Owen, and Robert De Niro

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: June 22nd, 2011

Open Road Films has released new images and the first trailer for the Jason Statham actioner Killer Elite.  It has everything a man could want: guns, explosions, a bikini butt closeup, “Rock You Like a Hurricane,” Clive Owen’s mustache… the list goes on.  I kid, mostly — the trailer is a blast.  Killer Elite looks like a treat for fans of pure action.
Statham plays an ex-special ops agent lured out of retirement to rescue his mentor, played by Robert De Niro: “To make the rescue, he must complete a near-impossible mission of killing three tough-as-nails assassins with a cunning leader (Owen).”  Yvonne Strahovski and Dominic Purcell also star.  Directed by Gary McKendry, Killer Elite hits theaters on September 23.  Hit the jump for the trailer and images.  http://collider.com/killer-elite-trailer-images/98180/

Viggo Mortensen to Star in THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY, the Directorial Debut of Hossein Amini

by Brendan Bettinger  Posted: June 22nd, 2011

Viggo Mortensen passed on Snow White and the Huntsman right around the time Hossein Amini entered negotiations to rewrite the script.  I suspect their paths crossed, as in the months since, Amini and Mortensen teamed to develop an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s The Two Faces of January.  The 1964 novel is a suspense thriller that centers on an American con artist, his wife, and a stranger in travelling in Athens.  A source tells 24 Frames Mortensen would assume one of the three starring roles, and this is intended to be the directorial debut of Amini.
Amini wields a powerful calling card right now with Drive — by all accounts from Cannes and LAFF, Drive is amazing.  We peons only have to wait three months for the September 16 theatrical release.  Cronenberg will next be seen playing Sigmund Freud in David Cronenberg’s A Dangerous Method, assuming it gets the late 2011 release we expect.  The first trailer, released yesterday, is wonderfully deranged.
Read the full synopsis for The Two Faces of January after the break. http://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-the-two-faces-of-january/98162/

Tom Wilkinson in Talks to Join THE LONE RANGER

by Jason Barr   Posted: June 22nd, 2011

Tom Wilkinson (Michael Clayton) is in talks to join Disney and producer Jerry Bruckheimer’s adaptation of The Lone Ranger. Per Variety, the two-time Oscar nominee would take on the “prominent” role of a railroad tycoon. If the deal goes through, Wilkinson would join a cast that already includes Armie Hammer in the title slot and Johnny Depp as his sidekick, Tonto. Gore Verbinski (Rango) is directing the pic which is scheduled to begin shooting after Depp finishes Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows adaptation and Hammer wraps Tarsem Singh’s (Immortals) untitled Snow White pic alongside Julia Roberts.

The Lone Ranger script comes courtesy of Ted Elliot, Terry Rossio, and Justin Haythe (Revolutionary Road). In addition to his potential role in Lone Ranger, the usually excellent Wilkinson can next be seen alongside Helen Mirren and Sam Worthington in director John Madden’s (Shakespeare in Love) drama/thriller The Debt which is due out on August 31st. The thesp also signed on to join Samuel L. Jackson in the indie thriller The Samaritan back in April.

http://collider.com/tom-wilkinson-lone-ranger/98163/

Emma Stone Offered Lead in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES

by Jason Barr   Posted: June 22nd, 2011

After testing the waters with Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, and Scarlett Johansson, Lionsgate has offered the female lead in Pride and Prejudice and Zombies to Emma Stone. Heat Vision reports on the offer to play Elizabeth Bennet, a zombie-killing heroine who sees her quest to save England from the undead made more difficult by the arrival of Fitzwilliam Darcy. The role was originally filled by Natalie Portman and has been vacant since the Oscar-winning actress decided to act solely in a producing capacity on the pic. Craig Gillespie (Fright Night remake) will direct Pride from an updated script by Fright Night scribe Marti Noxon.

For more on the project, hit the jump to check out a synopsis of Seth Grahame-Smith’s book which the film will adapt. If Stone accepts Lionsgate’s offer, Pride would be another high-profile pic for the actress who recently wrapped director Marc Webb’s The Amazing Spider-Man. She can also be seen alongside Ryan Gosling and Steve Carell in Crazy, Stupid, Love. due out July 29th and stars in The Help which is slated to hit theaters on August 12th. http://collider.com/emma-stone-pride-and-prejudice-and-zombies/98155/

Jamie Foxx Confirmed for Quentin Tarantino’s DJANGO UNCHAINED

by Jason Barr    Posted: June 22nd, 2011

Earlier today, we reported on the tweet rumor that Jamie Foxx had landed the title role in Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming Django Unchained. We now have confirmation on the matter as Variety reports that Foxx will indeed star in the pic alongside Leonard DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, and most likely Samuel L. Jackson as well. As has been well documented, Tarantino originally offered the surefire controversial part to Will Smith. After Smith passed, the writer/director met with Idris Elba, Terrence Howard, and Chris Tucker before offering the gig to Foxx.

For those unaware, Django Unchained centers on a freed slave (Foxx) who joins forces with a German bounty hunter (Waltz) as part of a plan to save the former’s love from an evil plantation owner (DiCaprio). The film is slated to hit theaters on December 25th, 2012. As for Foxx, the Oscar-winner can next be seen alongside Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Jason Sudeikis, and Charlie Day in the comedy Horrible Bosses opening July 8th.

http://collider.com/jamie-foxx-django-unchained-2/98147/

***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/

**F. Gary Gray to Direct THE LAST DAYS OF AMERICAN CRIME Starring Sam Worthington **Johnny Depp Says THE LONE RANGER Will Reinvent the Role of Tonto **First Trailer and Poster for FINAL DESTINATION 5 **First Promo for Season 6 of DEXTER

First Promo for Season 6 of DEXTER

by Matt Goldberg  Posted: May 8th, 2011

It’s still a long way until fall, but Showtime has already started running promos for the sixth season of Dexter.  The promo doesn’t have any new footage and it provides more of a recap of previous seasons.  What’s interesting is what it chooses to recap: single antagonists.  Last season marked a departure for the show as it took the focus off Dexter learning a valuable lesson from a big bad and instead developed a strong relationship with a new, not-evil character.  However, judging solely by this new promo, it’s possible that season six will be a return to form for America’s favorite serial killer.
Hit the jump to check out the promo.  No official premiere date has been announced for season six, but with the exception of the first season, every season of Dexter has premiered at the end of September.
..... http://collider.com/dexter-season-6-ad-promo/89632/

First Trailer and Poster for FINAL DESTINATION 5

by Matt Goldberg   Posted: May 9th, 2011

The first trailer and poster for Final Destination 5 have gone online.  This time the big disaster is on a suspension bridge.  As always, those who don’t have the courtesy to die in giant disasters get hunted down by the grim reaper and eliminated in gruesome, Rube Goldberg-projects of doom.  In a hint that the series may be running out of creative ways to off its characters, Final Destination 5 preys on our fears of LASIK and acupuncture.
Hit the jump to check out the trailer and poster.  Final Destination 5 stars Emma Bell, Nick D’Agosto, Miles Fisher, Arlen Escarpeta, Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, P.J. Byrne, Ellen Wroe, Courtney B. Vance, David Koechner, and Tony Todd.  The film opens in 3D on August 26th.
http://collider.com/final-destination-5-trailer/86282/

F. Gary Gray to Direct THE LAST DAYS OF AMERICAN CRIME Starring Sam Worthington

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: May 9th, 2011

Back in November 2009, before Sam Worthington broke out with Avatar but after he had garnered some attention for Termination Salvation, he signed on to star in an adaptation of the comic book The Last Days of American Crime.  And the project has been silent until today.  Deadline is reporting that director F. Gary Gray (Law Abiding Citizen) will helm the project, which centers on a group of thieves who plan to pull off a heist before America launches a new mind-control technology that will erase the criminal impulse in all citizens.  Karl Gajdusek (Horizons) is rewriting the script.
While Worthington has a slew of projects at his disposal, Deadline reports that he’ll do American Crime as his follow up to the Clash of the Titans sequel.  Shooting is expected to begin in September. Hit the jump for the comic’s official synopsis.
.....  http://collider.com/f-gary-gray-last-days-of-american-crime/89643/

Johnny Depp Says THE LONE RANGER Will Reinvent the Role of Tonto

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: May 9th, 2011

When it was reported that Johnny Depp would be playing Tonto in the adaptation of The Lone Ranger, some were left wondering why an actor of Depp’s stature would take the sidekick role.  The answer: he wouldn’t.  In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Depp expresses bewilderment that Tonto would take orders from The Lone Ranger:

“I remember watching [the 1949-1957 TV series in reruns] as a kid, with Jay Silverheels and Clayton Moore, and going: ‘Why is the f—ing Lone Ranger telling Tonto what to do?’”

Apparently Johnny Depp was a foul-mouthed kid.  Hit the jump for what he and director Gore Verbinski (Rango) are planning for the film adaptation.
.....  http://collider.com/lone-ranger-tonto-reinvent-johnny-depp/89648/

**Armie Hammer in Talks to Join Johnny Depp in THE LONE RANGER **Kristen Wiig, Anna Faris and Gillian Jacobs in the Running for Female Lead in THE DICTATOR Opposite Sacha Baron Cohen **Jane Lynch Joins THE THREE STOOGES as Head Nun **David Lindsay-Abaire Adapting His Play GOOD PEOPLE for Focus Features; Frances McDormand to Star

Jane Lynch Joins THE THREE STOOGES as Head Nun

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 27th, 2011

Things are moving right along for the Farrelly brothers’ long-gestating The Three Stooges film. After finally locking up their cast with Will Sasso set as Curly, Sean Hayes signed on as Larry, and Chris Diamantopoulos in talks to play Moe, Jane Lynch has just signed on to play the head nun in the film. Deadline reports that Lynch will play Mother Superior in what will presumably be the opening “episode” of the flick. The Farrelly brothers previously mentioned that rather than doing a biopic, The Three Stooges will be comprised of three brand new episodes featuring the lovable characters.

The first episode apparently involves the Stooges’ time at an orphanage, where they (naturally) cause all kinds of kooky havoc and disruption. Cher was previously rumored to be involved with the role, but it looks like the powers-that-be have settled on Lynch. In addition to the aforementioned cast, Sofia Vergara is in talks for a leading female role in the film, though details on her character are unknown at this time. To catch up on the problematic history of the project, click here.

....... http://collider.com/jane-lynch-the-three-stooges/87843/

Armie Hammer in Talks to Join Johnny Depp in THE LONE RANGER

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 27th, 2011

Merely a week ago, it was reported that Ryan Gosling was working on trying to fit Disney’s The Lone Ranger into his schedule, with the actor eyeing the title role opposite Johnny Depp’s Tonto. After quickly ending the talks, with Gosling unable to work the film around his schedule, we now have another actor in the running for the role: The Social Network’s Armie Hammer.

Deadline reports that Hammer is in early talks to join the project, with Gore Verbinski (the first three Pirates of the Caribbean films) at the helm. The story will supposedly focus on Depp’s Tonto, using him as an “unreliable narrator.” While the prospect of Gosling and Depp bantering in a fun adventure flick was enticing, Hammer seems to be a great choice as well. His fantastic work in The Social Network garnered him enough attention to secure a starring role in Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar opposite Leonardo DiCaprio, which is currently filming, and the actor is also attached to Tarsem Singh’s Snow White flick.

.......... http://collider.com/armie-hammer-the-lone-ranger/87850/

Kristen Wiig, Anna Faris and Gillian Jacobs in the Running for Female Lead in THE DICTATOR Opposite Sacha Baron Cohen

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 27th, 2011

Casting for the next Sacha Baron Cohen film The Dictator is heating up, with producers looking to fill the part of the female lead. Kristen Wiig, Anna Faris and Gillian Jacobs (Community) are among the frontrunners to play opposite Baron Cohen in the Borat-esque comedy. Larry Charles, who also helmed Borat and Bruno, is directing the film which tells the “heroic story of a dictator who risked his life to ensure that democracy would never come to the country he so lovingly oppressed,” with Cohen playing a dictator who gets lost in the US.

THR reports that Jason Mantzoukas (The League) is already attached to play Cohen’s sidekick in the film. Producers are looking for actors with very strong improvisational skills, and understandably so given the unscripted nature of Borat and Bruno. The report stresses that Cohen and Co. are still looking to fill the female lead role, and it could very well end up going to someone other than Wiig, Faris or Jacobs. Filming is set to begin in May in New York and Morocco for a May 11^th, 2012 release date.

................ http://collider.com/kristen-wiig-anna-faris-gillian-jacobs-the-dictator/87870/

David Lindsay-Abaire Adapting His Play GOOD PEOPLE for Focus Features; Frances McDormand to Star

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: April 27th, 2011

David Lindsay-Abaire (Rabbit Hole) opened Good People last month on Broadway, and he’s in negotiations to cash in the rave reviews for a script deal with Focus Features.  24 Frames hears Frances McDormand is attached to reprise her role as Margie Walsh from the stage production.  Lindsay-Abaire, a Boston native, set the drama in the working-class, predominantly Irish neighborhood Southie.  Margie is a high school dropout and single mother of a mentally disabled daughter who struggles to make ends meet.  Tate Donovan (Damages) plays a successful former classmate of Margie’s — their relationship anchors the class politics explored in the production.  It is not specified if Donovan or other cast members are involved in the talks with Focus; Dan Jinks (Milk) is on board as producer.

Hit the jump for the official synopsis and few clips from the play.

............ http://collider.com/good-people-movie-frances-mcdormand/87904/

**James Franco and Winona Ryder to Star in Psychological Thriller THE STARE **HBO Picks Up Armando Iannucci’s VEEP Comedy Series Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus **Matt Reeves Takes Another Bite out of Vampire Flicks with THE PASSAGE **Thomas Jane Enters HEADSHOT with Sylvester Stallone **Ryan Gosling Will NOT Star in THE LONE RANGER

HBO Picks Up Armando Iannucci’s VEEP Comedy Series Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus
by Ethan Anderton Posted: April 18th, 2011
Delivering one of the best political satire comedies I’ve seen in years, In the Loop writer and director Armando Iannucci just had his new comedy series Veep picked up by HBO. Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the series follows former Senator Selina Meyer (Louis-Dreyfus), who becomes Vice President, only to discover the job is nothing like she expected, but everything she was warned about. The cast also includes In the Loop star Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale (Arrested Development) Matt Walsh (Outsourced) and more.


Iannucci says, “I’m thrilled more than anyone is legally entitled to be. HBO is the dream network to make television for, and I’m excited to be working with such a superb and funny cast headed by the uber-superb-and-funny Julia Louis-Dreyfus. If making season one of Veep is as much fun as making the pilot, then I can die chuckling. Plus, we get to say rude words.” Since In the Loop was filled with great comedy and colorful language, this sounds great to me. Hit the jump for the full press release with more details.
............... http://collider.com/veep-hbo-julia-louis-dreyfus/86531/






James Franco and Winona Ryder to Star in Psychological Thriller THE STARE
by Matt Goldberg Posted: April 18th, 2011
James Franco and Winona Ryder will star in Jay Anania’s The Stare, the first feature funded by Waterstone Entertainment, a new producing/financing company. Deadline reports that the Ryder would play a playwright who “finds her mind beginning to warp as she struggles to launch her next production. She’s plagued by dreams and visions of being watched, but can’t decide if she’s at the center of a manipulative plot or simply losing her grip on reality.” So it sounds like Black Swan but this time it’s a writer who’s going mad and Ryder gets to be the star. As for Franco, he’ll play an actor who’s in the playwright’s production. Filming is set to begin on May 6th in New York.


Franco, who is one of Anania’s students at NYU where he heads the graduate directing program, previously starred in Anania’s Shadows & Lies and will serve as one of the producers on The Stare. Presumably, Franco will be able to get in this film before moving on to star in Sam Raimi’s Oz, The Great and Powerful As for Ryder, she’ll be one of the voices in Tim Burton’s 3D stop-motion remake of Frankenweenie.
................... http://collider.com/james-franco-winona-ryder-the-stare/86536/






Matt Reeves Takes Another Bite out of Vampire Flicks with THE PASSAGE
by Matt Goldberg Posted: April 18th, 2011
Director Matt Reeves (Let Me In) apparently hasn’t gotten his fill of bloodsuckers because he’s signed on to direct the vampire flick The Passage. But unlike the sad, meditative, personal drama of Let Me In, The Passage is more along the infected lines of 28 Days Later and The Stand. According to Deadline, the story—based on the novel by Justin Cronin—centers on the government attempting a cure for cancer after a group of terminal patients become healthy after being subjected to bat bites in South America. But their experimentation leads to the creation of nearly indestructible, telepathic vampire masters that begin infecting the populace. Moral of the story: don’t try to cure cancer.


Last September, we reported that screenwriter John Logan (Rango) would be handling the script, but now Reeves will oversee a rewrite by a yet-to-be-determined replacement since Logan is busy on the new James Bond flick. Last week, Reeves also signed on to write and direct an adaptation of the short story 8 O’Clock in the Morning. It’s unknown which project he’ll direct first although The Passage has a bit of a head start since there’s already a finished script. Hit the jump for a synopsis of the Justin Cronin’s novel.
............ http://collider.com/matt-reeves-the-passage/86541/






Thomas Jane Enters HEADSHOT with Sylvester Stallone
by Jason Barr Posted: April 18th, 2011
Last week, we brought you the news that Walter Hill (The Warriors) will be directing Sylvester Stallone in the action/thriller Headshot. Today, JoBlo reports that Thomas Jane will be starring alongside Sly as an NYPD detective. Per their report, Jane dropped the news of his involvement while appearing on their “Arrow in the Head” podcast and claims that it is indeed a done deal. Production on Headshot is expected to begin next month in New Orleans.


The script, initially penned by Alessandro Camon (The Messengers) and currently undergoing rewrites by Hill, focuses on a New Orleans-based hitman (Stallone) who shares a common goal of revenge with the aforementioned NYPD detective (Jane) as they are connected by two gruesome murders. As the story goes, the pair “take on all who stand in their way, and are willing to sacrifice everything to exact revenge.” With Stallone, Hill, and now Jane on board, color me excited for Headshot.
............... http://collider.com/thomas-jane-headshot/86550/








Ryan Gosling Will NOT Star in THE LONE RANGER
by Adam Chitwood Posted: April 18th, 2011
Well, so much for that pairing. Just a few days ago it was reported that Ryan Gosling was in talks to star in Disney’s The Lone Ranger opposite Johnny Depp. Now it appears the actor won’t be taking on the title role after all. The initial story stressed that the deal was far from closed and Gosling was having trouble lining up his schedule, and now EW confirms that the actor was ultimately unable to fit the project in.


Directed by Gore Verbinski, The Lone Ranger is set to star Depp as Tonto, with producers currently searching for the right actor to take on the role of Tonto’s masked companion. Depp has previously mentioned George Clooney and Brad Pitt as possible contenders for the part. Shooting is set to begin this fall.
.......... http://collider.com/ryan-gosling-the-lone-ranger-2/86562/

**Casting Call: Gugu Mbatha-Raw Joins ODD THOMAS; Michael B. Jordan and Alex Russell Tapped as Leads in CHRONICLE **This Must Be the Place Outtakes Featuring Sean Penn **Jack the Giant Killer Photos of Ewan McGregor and Eddie Marsen

Casting Call: Gugu Mbatha-Raw Joins ODD THOMAS; Michael B. Jordan and Alex Russell Tapped as Leads in CHRONICLE

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 15th, 2011

We’ve got a couple of casting stories for you this evening. First up, the cast for Stephen Sommers’ adapatation of the Dean Koontz novel Odd Thomas continues to fill out, with Undercovers star Gugu Mbatha-Raw being the latest actor to join the film. Odd Thomas stars Anton Yelchin as the eponymous character who is able to see and partially communicate with the dead. Addison Timlin is poised to play his girlfriend, and Variety reports that Mbatha-Raw will play her best friend. The cast now includes Nico Tortorella and Patton Oswalt, with Willem Dafoe in talks to play the local police chief.

Additionally, Michael B. Jordan (TV’s Friday Night Lights) and Alex Russell have been tapped as the leads in Fox’s supernatural drama alongside Dane DeHaan. Variety reports that plot details are under wraps, but the story apparently centers on “three Portland teens after they develop powers from exposure to a mysterious substance.” Josh Trank (The Kill Point) will make his feature directorial debut on the project, from a script by Max Landis. Chronicle is slated for a February 3, 2012 release.

.................. http://collider.com/gugu-mbatha-raw-odd-thomas-michael-b-jordan-alex-russell-chronicle/86352/

Ryan Gosling in Talks for "The Lone Ranger" with Johnny Depp

Posted: April 15th, 2011 by WorstPreviews.com Staff


Johnny Depp has been attached to star as Native American sidekick Tonto in Disney's "The Lone Ranger" film for quite some time. There have been talks that George Clooney may play the lead role, but now comes word that Ryan Gosling (Blue Valentine) is in talks.

The Wrap says Gosling may not be able to take the role because the actor has recently signed on for the "Logan's Run" remake, which begins shooting this fall.

"The Lone Ranger" is directed by Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean) from a screenplay by Justin Haythe (Revolutionary Road). The film is scheduled to appear in theaters in 2014.

Source: The Wrap



Read more: http://www.worstpreviews.com/headline.php?id=21347&count=0

 

 

Lone Ranger Eyes Ryan Gosling

Apr 15, 2011 by B. Alan Orange

Ryan Gosling to take on the Lone Ranger?

Walt Disney Pictures is currently in talks with Ryan Gosling to co-star in their upcoming reboot Lone Ranger. The actor will appear opposite Johnny Depp, whose Tonto will actually be the lead, if he decides to take the part.

Ryan Gosling has already signed onto appear in Logan's Run, which may keep him from accepting the role of John Reid, aka the Lone Ranger. Logan's Run is scheduled to shoot in the fall, but it isn't quite clear when Lone Ranger will begin production. Johnny Depp is first shooting Dark Shadows, which is ramping up at this very moment.

Walt Disney's Lone Ranger will be told through the point-of-view of Tonto, while the masked man himself will become more of a sidekick. Timothy Olyphant and George Clooney have also been mentioned for this role.

Lone Ranger is in development and stars Johnny Depp. The film is directed by Gore Verbinski.

Sources: The Wrap

 

http://www.movieweb.com/news/lone-ranger-eyes-ryan-gosling

 

This Must Be the Place Outtakes Featuring Sean Penn

Apr 15, 2011 by B. Alan Orange

Paolo Sorrentino directs Sean Penn, Frances McDormand, and Robert De Niro in This Must Be the Place, a lyrical road trip drama that follows a former Goth rocker as he searches America for the Nazi who killed his estranged father. We have a reel of outtakes from the film, along with a new photo of Sean Penn in his rocker outfit, both of which you can check out below.

This Must Be the Place comes to theaters in 2011 and stars Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, Frances McDormand, Tom Archdeacon. The film is directed by Paolo Sorrentino. http://www.movieweb.com/news/this-must-be-the-place-outtakes-featuring-sean-penn

 

 

 

 

Jack the Giant Killer Photos of Ewan McGregor and Eddie Marsen

The first images of Ewan McGreger and co-star Eddie Marsen on set in the British countryside for Jack the Giant Killer. Take a look.

In the film, which is an adult look at the Jack and the Beanstalk legend, centers on when a princess is kidnapped, a long-standing peace between men and giants becomes threatened, and a young farmer is given an opportunity to lead a dangerous expedition to the giant kingdom to rescue her.

Jack the Giant Killer comes to theaters in 2011 and stars Nicholas Hoult, Stanley Tucci, Bill Nighy, John Kassir, Ewan McGregor. The film is directed by Bryan Singer.

Sources: Daily Mail  http://www.movieweb.com/news/jack-the-giant-killer-photos-of-ewan-mcgregor-and-eddie-marsen

**Ryan Gosling in Talks to Star in THE LONE RANGER Opposite Johnny Depp **New Images from HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATLHY HALLOWS – PART 2 **Production Begins on BIG SUR Starring Josh Lucas, Kate Bosworth and Jean-Marc Barr **Nina Dobrev Lands Role in THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER **Paramount Picks Up Anna Faris Stalker Comedy

New Images from HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATLHY HALLOWS – PART 2

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: April 15th, 2011

New images from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 have been released.  If you want to get a good look at Harry fighting through Gringotts, Draco holding hands with his Slytherin compatriots, or Neville looking like a total badass, then hit the jump.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 opens in 3D on July 15th.

........more; http://collider.com/harry-potter-deathly-hallows-part-2-images/86297/

Production Begins on BIG SUR Starring Josh Lucas, Kate Bosworth and Jean-Marc Barr

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 15th, 2011

Filming has commenced on director Michael Polish’s (The Astronaut Farmer) adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s Big Sur. The film stars Jean-Marc Barr as Kerouac, Josh Lucas as Neal Cassidy, and Kate Bosworth as Billie, the love interest of both men. Deadline reports that production just recently began on the film, which tells the story of Kerouac’s move from New York City to Northern California.

Polish wrote and is directing the film, which features a supporting cast that includes Anthony Edwards, Rahda Mitchell, Balthazar Getty, Patrick Fischler, Tana Katic, John Robinson and Henry Thomas. This marks the second Kerouac adaptation in a year, as Walter Salles recently filmed an adaptation of On The Road. That film stars Kristen Stewart, Garrett Hedlund and Sam Riley, Kirsten Dunst and Viggo Mortensen. Hit the jump for a synopsis of Big Sur.

........... http://collider.com/josh-lucas-kate-bosworth-jean-marc-barr-big-sur/86304/

VAMPIRE DIARIES Star Nina Dobrev Lands Role in THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 15th, 2011

Actress Nina Dobrev, star of The CW’s The Vampire Diaries, has landed a role in Stephen Chbosky’s adaptation of his novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The cast now includes Emma Watson, Logan Lerman (Percy Jackson series), and Mae Whitman (Scott Pilgrim vs. The World). Deadline reports that Dobrev will play Candace in the coming of age story “about 15-year-old Charlie (Lerman), an endearing and naive outsider, coping with first love (Watson), the suicide of his best friend, and his own mental illness while struggling to find a group of people with whom he belongs.” Summit Entertainment is distributing the film.

The report also mentions Paul Rudd as being a part of the cast, though doesn’t specify which role he will play. Whitman is poised to take on the role of Mary Elizabeth, a tattooed vegetarian who acts as the protagonist’s first girlfriend. Hit the jump for a synopsis of The Perks of Being a Wallflower. ........... http://collider.com/nina-dobrev-perks-of-being-a-wallflower/86317/

Paramount Picks Up Anna Faris Stalker Comedy

by Adam Chitwood   Posted: April 15th, 2011

Paramount has picked up a comedy pitch from Anna Faris, centering on a troublesome roommate. The actress developed the pitch after recounting a real-life incident that happened to her. No plot details are known at this time, but THR reports that the story revolves around Faris and a new roommate who turns out to be “the stalker from hell.” I’m hoping that’s a literal description, because demonic roommates are always funny.

The pitch was further developed by screenwriter Deanna Kizis (Camp Rules for Montecito) who will now write the script. Joe Roth and Palak Patel are producing through Roth films, while Faris will star in and executive produce the comedy. The actress will next be seen in the comedy What’s Your Number? alongside Joel McHale, Chris Evans, Zachary Quinto, and Matt Bomer.

.............. http://collider.com/paramount-anna-faris-stalker-comedy/86322/

Ryan Gosling in Talks to Star in THE LONE RANGER Opposite Johnny Depp

by Adam Chitwood    Posted: April 15th, 2011

Ryan Gosling is currently in talks to star in Disney’s The Lone Ranger alongside Johnny Depp. The actor would be taking on the title role, with Depp having been set to play Tonto for quite some time now. Gore Verbinski (the first three Pirates of the Caribbean movies) is set to direct the film, with Jerry Bruckheimer producing. The Wrap reports that Gosling is in talks to star in the film, but his schedule may not allow him to take the role given that The Lone Ranger is poised to start shooting this fall.

Depp had previously mentioned George Clooney and Brad Pitt as possible actors to star with him in the film, but I quite like the choice of Gosling. He and Depp are both versatile guys, and if Gosling ends up with the role it’ll be fun to see the two play off each other in a fun adventure flick. Verbinski previously described the Justin Haythe-scripted story as Don Quixote-esque, with Depp’s Tonto serving as the unreliable narrator for the film. Depp has also expressed his desire to salute Native American culture with the film. Here’s hoping everything with Gosling works out.

........... http://collider.com/ryan-gosling-the-lone-ranger/86327/

**Gore Verbinski's Lone Ranger Movie Will Actually Be Don Quixote **Rumor Has Kevin Costner Being Eyed To Play Jonathan Kent, Superman's Earthly Father **Is Kevin Costner Up For A Role In Zack Snyder's Superman Reboot? **UPDATED: Glenn Close To Play The Lead In The Susan Boyle Biopic?

Gore Verbinski's Lone Ranger Movie Will Actually Be Don Quixote

published: 2011-02-21 23:55:02 Author: Josh Tyler

Gore Verbinski is hard at work on a big screen version of The Lone Ranger, and that’s not going to be easy. It’s Tonto that’s the problem; handle it the wrong way, and the Native American sidekick character could easily come off as a racist caricature. It doesn’t help that Tonto’s being played by Johnny Depp who, though he may have some Native American ancestry somewhere (what Heinz 57 American doesn’t?), isn’t really Native American. Verbinski’s solution? He’s not really making The Lone Ranger.

For those of you wondering why anyone would cast a star like Johnny Depp to play a faithful sidekick instead of the movie’s lead, the answer is they haven’t. Though the movie’s titled “The Lone Ranger” Verbinski tells the LA Times that it’s all about Tonto, and the entire thing will be told from his point of view. What’s more, it’s not so much the classic Lone Ranger story he’s telling, actually, he’s sort of turning the whole thing into Don Quixote. He explains, “The only version of ‘The Lone Ranger’ I’m interested in doing is ‘Don Quixote’ told from Sancho Panza’s point of view.”

That’s been the plan all along apparently. Verbinski says, “I was honest early on with Johnny that Tonto is the part. We’re not going to do it [straight], everyone knows that story. I don’t want to tell that story.” Cervantes is the real influence for the story he’s telling, not the 1933 radio adventures or subsequent TV series we all think of when we think Lone Ranger.

What’s more, it sounds like they’re going to really use Johnny Depp’s talent for playing somewhat unbalanced characters to the fullest. Gore says, “I want the version from the untrustworthy narrator who might be a little crazy — but somehow the question is, is he crazy or is the world crazy?” Why do I suddenly have a wild west version of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas in my head? There’s no way that can happen, this is a Disney movie after all. We should probably expect something more along the lines of Captain Jack Sparrow crazy instead. Either version seems like a good move.

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

http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Gore-Verbinski-s-Lone-Ranger-Movie-Will-Actually-Be-Don-Quixote-23289.html

 

 

 

 

 

Rumor Has Kevin Costner Being Eyed To Play Jonathan Kent, Superman's Earthly Father

published: 2011-02-21 17:45:20 Author: Eric Eisenberg
Arriving online today I discovered that the big question on everybody's mind was "Who does Zack Snyder want Kevin Costner to play in his Superman reboot?" In my write-up of the story I suggested two characters that the Oscar winner could play - Perry White, the Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Planet, and Jonathan Kent, the man who raised Superman on Earth. Turns out that my second guess may have been right on target. Latino Review is reporting from "well-placed sources" that the role that Costner is wanted for is that of Pa Kent. As the story goes, Jonathan Kent, along with his wife Martha, discover Kal-El's rocket, which crashes to earth in the town of Smallville. Though they know he's not of this Earth, they raise him as their son, giving him the name Clark Kent.

While I still think that Perry White is a better fit, I do like the idea of Costner in the part. Still, it's way, way to early to be saying that Costner will be in the film. The actor isn't even in negotiations for the part yet and, for all we know, he might not even be aware that Snyder is interested in casting him. The point is, if he ends up not doing the movie, don't set yourself up for disappointment.
..............

http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Rumor-Has-Kevin-Costner-Being-Eyed-To-Play-Jonathan-Kent-Superman-s-Earthly-Father-23285.html

Is Kevin Costner Up For A Role In Zack Snyder's Superman Reboot?

published: 2011-02-21 13:41:45 Author: Eric Eisenberg


Back during the early 1990s Kevin Costner was one of the biggest movie stars you could land to lead the cast in your movie. Films like Dances With Wolves, The Bodyguard and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves were all box office successes and the actor/director was even taking home Oscars. In recent years, however, his fortune hasn't be so strong. Averaging only about one film per year, his most successful movie in the last decade was Open Range, which only pulled in an average sum of $58 million. Should he choose to sign on, however, he could be headed back to $100 million blockbusters very soon.
Deadline reports that Zack Snyder has a "heightened interest" in casting Costner to play a lead role in the upcoming Superman reboot. The article makes no mention and has no guesses regarding who the actor might play in the comic book film. Set to go into production later this year, the only cast member yet signed on for the film is Henry Cavill who will be playing the Man of Steel.

At this stage in the game it's even hard to guess what role Costner might play. He has done both hero and villain in past films, but what established characters are there that available to be speculated about? If Lois Lane isn't in the movie, does that mean Perry White, who could be a solid fit for Costner, won't be either? If Supes is still in Smallville, will the veteran actor be playing Jonathan Kent? We simply don't know enough to start asking those kinds of questions.
....................
http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Is-Kevin-Costner-Up-For-A-Role-In-Zack-Snyder-s-Superman-Reboot-23277.html

UPDATED: Glenn Close To Play The Lead In The Susan Boyle Biopic?

published: 2011-02-21 16:19:06 Author: Eric Eisenberg
UPDATE! To no one's surprise, this rumor has been debunked. Glenn Close's reps tell USA Today that it's all malarky. Glenn Close is not playing Susan Boyle.

Here's our original report of this spurious rumor.

---

Back in 2009 you couldn't talk to three people in a day without two of them talking about Susan Boyle. The homely Scottish woman rocked the world when she performed a rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Misérables on Britain's Got Talent and became an overnight sensation. One five minute YouTube clip managed to expose the ridiculous superficiality of the music industry. But then, like every internet star, the spotlight dimmed and while Boyle certainly still has her millions fans and best selling albums, her story is no longer front page news. Some people still find her timely enough to get a biopic, however, and now they may have landed a star.

That reputable beacon of journalistic integrity known as The Sun is reporting from an unnamed source that Glenn Close has signed on to play Susan Boyle. Said the source on the casting, "Glenn has played some imposing women in the past including Cruella de Vil and Alex Forrest, who boils the pet rabbit in Fatal Attraction, but SuBo might just be her biggest role yet." The article makes no mention of who will write or direct the project.

Considering that Boyle's appearance is very much a part of her story, I've always wondered about how self-esteem works into casting like this (The Daily Telegraph previously reported that Robin Williams was up for the part of Boyle). Is Glenn Close comfortable enough with her appearance that she has no problem with someone saying, "You'd be perfect to play Susan Boyle"? Considering that this is The Sun, however, please do keep in mind that there is a 90% chance that this story is fake.
.....................
http://www.cinemablend.com/new/UPDATED-Glenn-Close-To-Play-The-Lead-In-The-Susan-Boyle-Biopic-23281.html

***First Trailer for SOMETHING BORROWED Starring Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, and Colin Egglesfield ***Director Gore Verbinski Talks LONE RANGER; Likens Johnny Depp as Tonto to a Crazy Sancho Panza

First Trailer for SOMETHING BORROWED Starring Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, and Colin Egglesfield

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: February 17th, 2011

I love a good romantic comedy, and so harbored high hopes for Something Borrowed since the early stages of development.  I have heard good things about the Emily Giffin novel/source material, and generally believe Ginnifer Goodwin can do no wrong.  But Kate Hudson in a rom-com is enough to caution anyone familiar with her work over the last decade.

The good news: Hudson is meant to play an awful person, and even gets the biggest laughs in the new trailer despite the presence of John Krasinski.  (Well played, casting director Mandy Sherman.)  See for yourself after the jump.

............. here; http://collider.com/something-borrowed-movie-trailer/76766/

Director Gore Verbinski Talks LONE RANGER; Likens Johnny Depp as Tonto to a Crazy Sancho Panza

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: February 17th, 2011

So far, Johnny Depp has been the public voice of the Lone Ranger adaptation, discussing the opportunity to salute Native American culture and his wish to see Brad Pitt or George Clooney in the title role.  But director Gore Verbinski has a movie to promote — the same one as Depp, actually.  The animated film Rango, which opens March 4.  And so we have access to Verbinski as he sets out on this high profile adaptation:

“It’s just at the primordial stage. We’re working on the screenplay, but if we can pull that off — find that story I want to tell — then it will be worth doing.”

Verbinski went on to discuss Depp’s role as Tonto and compared the storytelling to Don Quixote.  Read what he had to say after the jump.

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

http://collider.com/gore-verbinski-lone-ranger/76810/

***John Singleton to Direct Liam Hemsworth in BROKEN RUN ***Ben Foster and Giovanni Ribisi Join Mark Wahlberg and Kate Beckinsale in CONTRABAND ***Johnny Depp Likes Brad Pitt or George Clooney to Play THE LONE RANGER

John Singleton to Direct Liam Hemsworth in BROKEN RUN

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: December 1st, 2010

The Hemsworth brothers aren’t stars yet, but Hollywood is intent on making them household names by the end of 2011.  Chris Hemsworth is set to make the biggest splash cinematically possible as the lead in Thor.  The rise of younger brother Liam Hemsworth is a bit more gradual, with roles in Knowing and The Last Song over the last two years.  Next year brings him into stage two as the lead in the period epic Arabian Nights.
According to TheWrap, Hemsworth will follow up Arabian Nights with Broken Run,  a political thriller set in Washington D.C.  Hemsworth is attached to star, and John Singleton (Four Brothers) is attached to direct.  If the project lines up a buyer, Jay Longino and Michael Browning are on tap to write the script.  Singleton recently wrapped production on the Taylor Lautner thriller Abduction.
http://www.collider.com/2010/12/01/broken-run-liam-hemsworth-john-singleton/

Ben Foster and Giovanni Ribisi Join Mark Wahlberg and Kate Beckinsale in CONTRABAND

by Brendan Bettinger    Posted: December 1st, 2010

Ben Foster (The Messenger) and Giovanni Ribisi (Avatar) are in talks to join Mark Wahlberg and Kate Beckinsale in Contraband, the American remake of Iceland’s Reykjavic-Rotterdam.  Wahlberg stars as a busted smuggler who becomes a security guard; in the face of financial troubles, he undertakes one last job.
According to Variety, Foster will play Wahlberg’s brother-in-law.  No details yet on who Ribisi might play.  (Any Icelanders have a guess?)  Baltasar Kormákur, who produced, co-wrote, and starred in the 2008 original, will produce and direct the remake.  Hit the jump for the official synopsis of Reykjavic-Rotterdam.

Like a fish on a dry land, Kristofer is stuck in a dull everyday routine, working as a security guard. He got fired from the freight ship he worked on, when he was caught smuggling alcohol. Faced with money problems, he is tempted to accept the help of his friend, Steingrimur, who manages to pull some strings to get his old job back. He decides to take his chances one last time on a tour to Rotterdam

Foster will next be seen opposite Jason Statham in The Mechanic, with Rampart on the horizon.  Ribisi has The Rum Diary in the can, and has been linked to St. Vincent.

http://www.collider.com/2010/12/01/contraband-ben-foster-giovanni-ribisi/

Johnny Depp Likes Brad Pitt or George Clooney to Play THE LONE RANGER

by Jeff Ames    Posted: December 1st, 2010

With Pirates of Caribbean director Gore Verbinksi officially attached to direct the big screen version of The Lone Ranger, it’s no surprise attention is now focused on who will play the titular hero himself. The newest names to hit the pot come from none other than Tonto himself — or star Johnny Depp:

“There’s so many interesting possibilities out there. Brad [Pitt] would be great. [George] Clooney would be great. Don’t know who it’s going to be just yet.”

Depp is currently filming Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides with director Rob Marshall for a May 20, 2011 release. Pitt has a slew of upcoming films including the long-awaited Tree of Life from director Terrence Malick, which opens on May 27, 2011. The Lone Ranger is set for a 2012 release. Hit the jump for more.
The suggestion makes sense as Depp would likely have bumped into Pitt while filming The Tourist with the Inglourious Basterds’ wife Angelina Jolie – he would know better than anyone whether Pitt’s acting sensibilities would play off his own. Still, while Depp may have quite a bit of pull in Hollywood, the decision will likely rest in the hands of Verbinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
I remain cautiously optimistic about The Lone Ranger, especially considering its long-delayed pre-production process. It took nearly three years for Verbinski to officially climb on board, even after the inclusion of box office behemoth Johnny Depp. Personally I wish Verbinski had taken the directing gig on the big screen adaptation of the video game BioShock (though Juan Carlos Fresnadillo remains a solid choice), something that more soundly fits his directing abilities.
Still, this latest rumor suggests a rather unique take on the legendary series, especially in regards to its depictions of Native Americans.  Depp explains to Entertainment Tonight:

“Native Americans in cinema, over the past however many decades, have been treated somewhat shabbily. This one has plans to rectify that.”

Hmmm … the whimsical (even comedic) tone of Pirates meshed with the down-to-earth realism of Dance with Wolves? Starring Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp? I’d pay to watch that.
Here’s a synopsis of the TV show:

The title character is a masked Texas Ranger in the American Old West, originally played by George Seaton (radio), but more famously by Clayton Moore (television), who gallops about righting injustices with the aid of his clever, laconic Native American companion, Tonto played by (amongst others) John Todd, Roland Parker, and (in the television series) Jay Silverheels. Tonto usually referred to the Lone Ranger as Kemo Sabe, meaning “trusty scout”.  Departing on his white horse Silver, the Ranger would shout “Hi-yo, Silver, away!” as the horse galloped toward the setting sun, followed by someone asking “Who was that masked man, anyway?” “Why he’s the Lone Ranger.” [Wikipedia]

http://www.collider.com/2010/12/01/the-lone-ranger-brad-pitt-george-clooney/

***New Release Dates for THE THING and MONEYBALL ***Gore Verbinski Attached to Direct THE LONE RANGER Starring Johnny Depp as Tonto ***Christian Bale Says THE DARK KNIGHT RISES Will Be His Last Time as Batman (Unless Christopher Nolan Says Different)

New Release Dates for THE THING and MONEYBALL

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: November 23rd, 2010

The upcoming films The Thing and Moneyball have landed new release dates.  The Thing, which is a prequel to the 1982 John Carpenter horror film of the same name,  was originally set for April 29, 2011, but then Universal decided to give that date to the new Fast and Furious film, Fast Five.  Now Universal is tweeting that The Thing will open on October 14, 2011.  The film, which stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Joel Edgerton, will now square off at the box office against the remake of Footloose and Paul W.S. Anderson’s 3D adaptation of The Three Musketeers.
Also getting a release date is Bennett Miller’s Moneyball starring Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill.  The film, which centers on how the Oakland Athletics became a competitive ballclub through utilizing statistics, will open on September 23, 2011 according to Box Office Mojo.  The only other film currently set for that date is the action flick Abduction starring Taylor Lautner and Alfred Molina.
http://www.collider.com/2010/11/23/the-thing-moneyball-release-dates/

Gore Verbinski Attached to Direct THE LONE RANGER Starring Johnny Depp as Tonto

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: November 23rd, 2010

In Hollywood, some projects can take a while to get off the ground.  In May of 2007, Steve reported that producer Jerry Bruckheimer wanted to re-team with Pirates of the Caribbean director Gore Verbinski for a new Pirates-style take on The Lone Ranger with a script by POTC screenwriters Ted Elliot and Terry Rossio.  It turns out we were slightly early on that report.  After a report in September that said Verbinski was finally in talks for the gig, Deadline is now reporting that he’s officially on board and that Johnny Depp will play Tonto.  There’s currently no word on when production will start or who will play the title character.  Depp and Verbinski recently collaborated on the animated film Rango, which is set to open on March 4, 2011.
Hit the jump for recap of Verbinski’s other projects as well as a brief refresher on The Lone Ranger.

Verbinski and Rossio are currently developing a supernatural police procedural for Fox called Magical Law.  Verbinski is also producing an adaptation of the video game Bioshock directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (28 Weeks Later).  Finally, this past summer Verbinski was in early negotiations to direct The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, but we don’t know if those negotiations resulted in him signing on to the project.
For those who aren’t familiar with The Lone Ranger, here’s a brief synopsis [via Wikipedia]:

The Lone Ranger is an American radio and television show created by George W. Trendle and developed by Fran Striker.
The title character is a masked Texas Ranger in the American Old West, originally played by George Seaton (radio), but more famously by Clayton Moore (television), who gallops about righting injustices with the aid of his clever, laconic Native American companion, Tonto played by (amongst others) John Todd, Roland Parker, and (in the television series) Jay Silverheels. Tonto usually referred to the Lone Ranger as Kemo Sabe, meaning “trusty scout”.  Departing on his white horse Silver, the Ranger would shout “Hi-yo, Silver, away!” as the horse galloped toward the setting sun, followed by someone asking “Who was that masked man, anyway?” “Why he’s the Lone Ranger.” The sayings, as well as the theme music from the William Tell Overture, are indelibly stamped in the memories of millions of Americans (and Britons) who came of age during the decades of the show’s initial popularity or viewed the television series run nearly continuously for past fifty years. Reruns of the Lone Ranger as portrayed by Clayton Moore are still telecast today (August, 2010) sixty-one years after their production and initial broadcast. The character has become an icon of American culture.

http://www.collider.com/2010/11/23/the-lone-ranger-johnny-depp-gore-verbinski/

Christian Bale Says THE DARK KNIGHT RISES Will Be His Last Time as Batman (Unless Christopher Nolan Says Different)

by Matt Goldberg    Posted: November 23rd, 2010

It looks like Christian Bale only has so much gravel-voice to give.  In a recent interview with E! News, Bale says that The Dark Knight Rises will be his last turn as the Caped Crusader.  Said Bale,

“The thing is that this will be, I believe, unless [Christopher Nolan] says different, this will be the last time I’m playing Batman.”

Nolan has previously stated that The Dark Knight Rises will be the last Batman film he directs and that the third film will “finish the story” that started with Batman Begins. Hit the jump for what Bale says he knows and doesn’t know about the third film.  The Dark Knight Rises also stars Michael Caine and Tom Hardy.  It’s slated for release on July 20, 2012.

Bale, who is picking up strong critical acclaim in David O. Russell’s The Fighter, says that when it comes to the plot of The Dark Knight Rises,

“I probably know a little bit more than some other people out there, but I think most people would be surprised at how little I do know… It just hasn’t been necessary yet. I know he’ll give me plenty of time to prepare for whatever I need to, and I’ll discover it.”

This coincides with Michael Caine’s recent interview where he said they weren’t set to receive the script until January.  Filming on the highly-anticipated sequel is set to begin in May.
http://www.collider.com/2010/11/23/the-dark-knight-rises-christian-bale/