Cardio is good. Sony Pictures Classics’ 4k rerelease of Run Lola Run had a healthy weekend, opening to an estimated $154k on 275 screens. This is the 25th anniversary of the U.S. debut of Tom Tykwer’s German experimental thriller that sees flame-haired Lola (Franka Potente) on the move in Berlin, pounding the pavement to come up with 100,000 Deutschmarks in 20 minutes to save her boyfriend’s life. (This was before the euro arrived). See Deadline interview here. A handful of rereleases/restorations have been box office stars post-Covid and this is another indie win.
A24’s Tuesday, a modern-day fairy tale with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, launched to $26k on two screens. Daina O. Pusic’s directorial debut premiered at Telluride. The modern-day fairy tale had sold out Q&As shows throughout the weekend and expands to a moderate nationwide footprint next week.
Utopia reunited with Shiva Baby (and Bottoms) star Rachel Sennott...
A24’s Tuesday, a modern-day fairy tale with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, launched to $26k on two screens. Daina O. Pusic’s directorial debut premiered at Telluride. The modern-day fairy tale had sold out Q&As shows throughout the weekend and expands to a moderate nationwide footprint next week.
Utopia reunited with Shiva Baby (and Bottoms) star Rachel Sennott...
- 6/9/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Theaters will live to fight another day. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (Sony) provided more than half of the gross this weekend, taking #1 with $56 million. That isn’t a record for the franchise (with previous films at lower ticket prices), but it is a critical victory for the industry at a time it desperately needs them.
Will Smith’s first wide release since his catastrophic Oscar behavior in 2022 represents a triumph for star power, franchise filmmaking, action titles, and titles that draw from minority audiences (over two thirds for the weekend were Black and Latino). Most of all, it was a vital sign that underperformance for highly touted summer films isn’t a given.
In the face of rising industry panic, an under-$40 million opening for “Ride or Die” (its 2020 predecessor opened to $62 million) could have ratched the doom and despair to toxic levels. Instead, it blew past tracking projections...
Will Smith’s first wide release since his catastrophic Oscar behavior in 2022 represents a triumph for star power, franchise filmmaking, action titles, and titles that draw from minority audiences (over two thirds for the weekend were Black and Latino). Most of all, it was a vital sign that underperformance for highly touted summer films isn’t a given.
In the face of rising industry panic, an under-$40 million opening for “Ride or Die” (its 2020 predecessor opened to $62 million) could have ratched the doom and despair to toxic levels. Instead, it blew past tracking projections...
- 6/9/2024
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
A glimpse at upcoming UK DVD and Blu-ray release dates until the end of 2024: here’s what’s coming to disc and when.
Here, then, are a few of the upcoming dates for new movies on DVD and Blu-ray that may not yet have been officially announced. Note that all dates are for the UK.
Also: We’ve started adding affiliate links. If you click on those, we benefit, and can spend more money paying more people to write more things for this website. No pressure, just hugely obliged.
Obviously in the current climate everything is subject to change, of course…
Just released
First Time On UK Blu-ray: No Way Out (Film Stories Blu-ray #2)
First Time On UK Blu-ray: Bull Durham (Film Stories Blu-ray #3)
Here, then, are a few of the upcoming dates for new movies on DVD and Blu-ray that may not yet have been officially announced. Note...
Here, then, are a few of the upcoming dates for new movies on DVD and Blu-ray that may not yet have been officially announced. Note that all dates are for the UK.
Also: We’ve started adding affiliate links. If you click on those, we benefit, and can spend more money paying more people to write more things for this website. No pressure, just hugely obliged.
Obviously in the current climate everything is subject to change, of course…
Just released
First Time On UK Blu-ray: No Way Out (Film Stories Blu-ray #2)
First Time On UK Blu-ray: Bull Durham (Film Stories Blu-ray #3)
Here, then, are a few of the upcoming dates for new movies on DVD and Blu-ray that may not yet have been officially announced. Note...
- 6/8/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
The 2024 Oscar nominee for best animated feature, Robot Dreams, directed by Pablo Berger, offers an engaging exploration of friendship’s beauty and frailty. Set in a nostalgically stylized 1980s New York City teeming with anthropomorphic animals and devoid of spoken dialogue, this film is both a visual and emotional feast. A Quiet Tale with Emotional Resonance We first meet Dog, living a solitary life in his sparse East Village apartment. His routine of work, walking, and consuming microwaved TV dinners sets a melancholic tone, underscoring his loneliness. This changes when he sends away for a do-it-yourself robot kit after seeing...
- 6/8/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
“Robot Dreams”, a new.animated feature directed by Pablo Berger, recently nominated for an Academy Award, stars Ivan Labanda , Tito Trifol , Rafa Calvo and José García Tos, releasing June 7, 2024 in a limited theatrical release:lease
Based on the graphic novel title by Sara Varon, ‘Robot Dreams’ tells the adventures and misfortunes of ‘Dog’ and ‘Robot’…
“…in NYC during the 1980’s.
Click the images to enlarge…...
Based on the graphic novel title by Sara Varon, ‘Robot Dreams’ tells the adventures and misfortunes of ‘Dog’ and ‘Robot’…
“…in NYC during the 1980’s.
Click the images to enlarge…...
- 6/7/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Catalonia’s animation scene is flourishing thanks to a motivated and well-trained base of artists, generous government backing and early involvement from public broadcasters.
One need look no further than this year’s Annecy Animation Festival for proof of the Catalanimation boom. Titles from the Spanish territory appear in the main competition (“Rock Bottom”), Contrechamp competition (“Black Butterflies”), Annecy Presents non-competitive section (“Buffalo Kids”), Work in Progress (“Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake”), Annecy market MIFA Pitches sidebar and several other high-profile sections of the French festival.
“Rock Bottom”
Given the quality and diversity of productions emerging from the region, there is no doubt that the foundation of the Catalan boom is artist-driven. Auteur indie titles like “Robot Dreams” (Arcadia Motion Pictures) have achieved critical and award success, including European Film Awards and an Oscar nomination.
Producing those types of films isn’t free, however, and often wouldn’t be possible...
One need look no further than this year’s Annecy Animation Festival for proof of the Catalanimation boom. Titles from the Spanish territory appear in the main competition (“Rock Bottom”), Contrechamp competition (“Black Butterflies”), Annecy Presents non-competitive section (“Buffalo Kids”), Work in Progress (“Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake”), Annecy market MIFA Pitches sidebar and several other high-profile sections of the French festival.
“Rock Bottom”
Given the quality and diversity of productions emerging from the region, there is no doubt that the foundation of the Catalan boom is artist-driven. Auteur indie titles like “Robot Dreams” (Arcadia Motion Pictures) have achieved critical and award success, including European Film Awards and an Oscar nomination.
Producing those types of films isn’t free, however, and often wouldn’t be possible...
- 6/7/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Global animation has seen a significant uptick in the production and dissemination of titles produced for mature audiences. Catalonia is no exception, and the Spanish community’s adult animation industry is thriving as artists look to tell more mature stories with their work.
Several high-profile examples stand out at this year’s Annecy Animation Festival. Maria Trenor’s psychedelic musical “Rock Bottom” is world premiering in the festival’s main competition, and David Baute’s global warming documentary “Black Butterflies” is playing in the Contrechamp section. “The Doctor’s Wife,” a Catalonia-Portugal co-production, will feature in the festival’s Tribute to Portuguese Animation – A New Generation showcase.
Trenor’s “Rock Bottom” is produced by Catalan producer Alba Sotorra, who is recognized for her fearlessness in backing adventurous local productions made by women filmmakers, and often with international partners. In this case, she produces a psychedelic rotoscoped story inspired by the life and music of U.
Several high-profile examples stand out at this year’s Annecy Animation Festival. Maria Trenor’s psychedelic musical “Rock Bottom” is world premiering in the festival’s main competition, and David Baute’s global warming documentary “Black Butterflies” is playing in the Contrechamp section. “The Doctor’s Wife,” a Catalonia-Portugal co-production, will feature in the festival’s Tribute to Portuguese Animation – A New Generation showcase.
Trenor’s “Rock Bottom” is produced by Catalan producer Alba Sotorra, who is recognized for her fearlessness in backing adventurous local productions made by women filmmakers, and often with international partners. In this case, she produces a psychedelic rotoscoped story inspired by the life and music of U.
- 6/7/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
"Summer Camp" Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates, and Alfre Woodard team up for this septuagenarian romcom proving that life begins at 70 (See review below). "Ezra" Tony Goldwyn directs Bobby Canavale, Rose Byrne, and Robert De Niro for this thoughtful film about a boy with autism named “Ezra” played by William A. Fitzgerald (See the review
The post Movie Reviews: “Summer Camp,” “Ezra,” “Robot Dreams” appeared first on Manny the Movie Guy.
The post Movie Reviews: “Summer Camp,” “Ezra,” “Robot Dreams” appeared first on Manny the Movie Guy.
- 6/6/2024
- by manny
- Manny the Movie Guy
Filmmaker Pablo Berger had never made an animated film before. He’d never even considered it until he read Sara Varon’s graphic novel “Robot Dreams.” Having recently lost his best friend and mother, the story of friendship and loss spoke to him on such an emotional level that he decided to adapt it — and learn how to make an animated film.
He spent two-and-years on animation education, but wanted to bring something from his previous directing experience: working with some of the best Spanish actors. Said Berger while on the Toolkit podcast, “In most animated film, [the characters] tend to overact.”
Berger began by working with a small animation team led by art director José Luis Ágreda and character supervisor Daniel Fernández Casas before “an army” of animators brought his vision to life.
“I started saying [to the animators], ‘I’m going to treat you as actors, you are my actors,’” said Berger. “They...
He spent two-and-years on animation education, but wanted to bring something from his previous directing experience: working with some of the best Spanish actors. Said Berger while on the Toolkit podcast, “In most animated film, [the characters] tend to overact.”
Berger began by working with a small animation team led by art director José Luis Ágreda and character supervisor Daniel Fernández Casas before “an army” of animators brought his vision to life.
“I started saying [to the animators], ‘I’m going to treat you as actors, you are my actors,’” said Berger. “They...
- 6/4/2024
- by Chris O'Falt
- Indiewire
Lots of ways to describe how bad it is for theaters. Here’s one: A year ago, the #2 film “The Little Mermaid” grossed $41.4 million; this weekend, the top four films grossed $44.4 million combined.
“The Garfield Movie” (Sony) took over #1 with $14 million and a 10-day total about $2 million better than last week’s #1, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.” (Warner Bros.). George Miller’s $160 million-budget prequel dropped 59 percent from a disappointing start and is in a tight battle for #2 with “If” (Paramount). The family fantasy with Ryan Reynolds tentatively stands at $50,000 ahead; to its credit, WB wasn’t aggressive in its estimate. (Tomorrow will tell the actual result).
The good news is that we have touched bottom for the summer, and it will get better from here. Both “Garfield” and “If” had strong holds: “Garfield” dropped 41 percent in its second weekend after a holiday Sunday, and “If” dropped 33 percent and now is at $80 million.
“The Garfield Movie” (Sony) took over #1 with $14 million and a 10-day total about $2 million better than last week’s #1, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.” (Warner Bros.). George Miller’s $160 million-budget prequel dropped 59 percent from a disappointing start and is in a tight battle for #2 with “If” (Paramount). The family fantasy with Ryan Reynolds tentatively stands at $50,000 ahead; to its credit, WB wasn’t aggressive in its estimate. (Tomorrow will tell the actual result).
The good news is that we have touched bottom for the summer, and it will get better from here. Both “Garfield” and “If” had strong holds: “Garfield” dropped 41 percent in its second weekend after a holiday Sunday, and “If” dropped 33 percent and now is at $80 million.
- 6/2/2024
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
In A Violent Nature, an undead murderous monster’s slow striding through the woods, has generated IFC Films’ second-best opening ever since its indie horror hit Late Night With The Devil in March.
The artsy slasher written and directed by Chris Nash will see an estimated weekend gross of $2.1 million on 1,426 screens, IFC’s widest opening ever, and a no. 8 spot at the domestic box office.
Late Night, by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, which opened to $2.8 million at 1,034 locations, is pushing $10 million. It returns to theaters June 6 and runs through the weekend on about 500 screens.
In A Violent Nature “has been steadily making waves for redefining the classic slasher genre” since its Sundance premiere, said Scott Shooman, head of AMC Networks Film Group, calling Nash’s feature debut “a film that will have a lasting impact in the horror space.”
At 87% with critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is one...
The artsy slasher written and directed by Chris Nash will see an estimated weekend gross of $2.1 million on 1,426 screens, IFC’s widest opening ever, and a no. 8 spot at the domestic box office.
Late Night, by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, which opened to $2.8 million at 1,034 locations, is pushing $10 million. It returns to theaters June 6 and runs through the weekend on about 500 screens.
In A Violent Nature “has been steadily making waves for redefining the classic slasher genre” since its Sundance premiere, said Scott Shooman, head of AMC Networks Film Group, calling Nash’s feature debut “a film that will have a lasting impact in the horror space.”
At 87% with critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is one...
- 6/2/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Pablo Berger’s Oscar-nominated Spanish film hits theaters this week, and TheWrap is here to fill you in with all the details on how to watch.
“Robot Dreams,” adapted from Sara Varon’s 2007 graphic novel of the same name, follows the journey of a lonely dog named Dog in 1980s New York who resorts to creating his own robot companion.
The silent animated musical was written and directed by Pablo Berger, and was produced by Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé, Sandra Tapia, Jérôme Vidal, Sylvie Pialat and distributed by Neon.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch.
When does “Robot Dreams” come out?
“Robot Dreams” releases in theaters on Friday, May 31.
Is “Robot Dreams” streaming?
Not yet, but it will be. “Robot Dreams” will be available to stream on Apple TV+ sometime after its theatrical release.
Check out the links below for “Robot Dreams” showtimes and tickets near you.
“Robot Dreams,” adapted from Sara Varon’s 2007 graphic novel of the same name, follows the journey of a lonely dog named Dog in 1980s New York who resorts to creating his own robot companion.
The silent animated musical was written and directed by Pablo Berger, and was produced by Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé, Sandra Tapia, Jérôme Vidal, Sylvie Pialat and distributed by Neon.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch.
When does “Robot Dreams” come out?
“Robot Dreams” releases in theaters on Friday, May 31.
Is “Robot Dreams” streaming?
Not yet, but it will be. “Robot Dreams” will be available to stream on Apple TV+ sometime after its theatrical release.
Check out the links below for “Robot Dreams” showtimes and tickets near you.
- 5/31/2024
- by Raquel 'Rocky' Harris
- The Wrap
Do androids dream of electric sheep? A better question: What if their R.E.M. cycles were filled with the same wish-fulfillment scenarios and sweaty-palm nightmares that the rest of us have, as thoughts of love and loneliness and hopes and fears danced through their metallic heads?
Based on Sarah Varon’s 2007 graphic novel, Pablo Berger’s Robot Dreams treats that idea as a given — one of this animated masterpiece’s main characters is, after all, a mechanical being designed to be a loyal companion, even if some initial assembly is required.
Based on Sarah Varon’s 2007 graphic novel, Pablo Berger’s Robot Dreams treats that idea as a given — one of this animated masterpiece’s main characters is, after all, a mechanical being designed to be a loyal companion, even if some initial assembly is required.
- 5/31/2024
- by David Fear
- Rollingstone.com
2024 is a bit slow in terms of good animated films coming out. Besides Kung Fu Panda 4, there are no big releases that are also as good. But we have compiled a list of the best-animated films we could find that came out this year. So, rest up gather your family for most of these films, and enjoy these best-animated films of 2024.
Orion and the Dark (Netflix)
Orion and the Dark is an animated fantasy adventure film directed by Sean Charmatz from a screenplay by Charlie Kaufman. Based on a children’s book of the same name by Emma Yarlett, the Netflix film follows the story of an 11-year-old boy Orion who is scared of the dark, but when the embodiment of darkness himself comes to visit to convince him not to fear both of them go on a life-changing adventure. Orion and the Dark’s voice cast includes Jacob Tremblay,...
Orion and the Dark (Netflix)
Orion and the Dark is an animated fantasy adventure film directed by Sean Charmatz from a screenplay by Charlie Kaufman. Based on a children’s book of the same name by Emma Yarlett, the Netflix film follows the story of an 11-year-old boy Orion who is scared of the dark, but when the embodiment of darkness himself comes to visit to convince him not to fear both of them go on a life-changing adventure. Orion and the Dark’s voice cast includes Jacob Tremblay,...
- 5/31/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
So it’s been long established that the Summer season is the “go-to” release time for animated features (along with the year-end holidays). Kids are out of school and parents need an air-conditioned refuge for the whole family. This season has begun at the multiplex with a fully CGI’d version of the “funny papers” feline, and we’ll soon get an ’emotional” reunion with a Pixar sequel and another visit from Gru and his minions. Ah, but “in between” we’re getting treated to something special and somewhat unique as it’s not part of a franchise, rather it’s based on an acclaimed graphic novel. Plus it’s done in the “classic” animation style, often referred to as 2D, much like the “hand-drawn” shorts and features (and TV shows) of the past. Oh, and it’s an Oscar nominee…from last year. Yes, it was one of the...
- 5/31/2024
- by Jim Batts
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Pablo Berger, acclaimed Spanish director behind films like Blancanieves and Abracadabra, ventured into the world of animation with “Robot Dreams”, a touching tale adapted from Sara Varon’s 2007 graphic novel. Set in 1980s New York City and populated by anthropomorphic animals, the film beautifully captures the ephemeral nature of friendships. The story begins in the East Village where Dog, feeling lonely and isolated, decides to order a robot companion. Their journey of friendship resonates deeply, especially during their whimsical summer together. Key moments include bonding over Earth, Wind & Fire’s ‘September’ and enjoying the vibrant city life, depicted with exquisite...
- 5/30/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
Robot Dreams
Photo: Neon
Eclectic Spanish filmmaker Pablo Berger has made silent movies before, but never one quite like Robot Dreams. A New York tourism advert for anyone who thinks Wall-e sold out to Big Talkie after breaking its opening vow of silence, Robot Dreams communicates the aches, pains, and...
Photo: Neon
Eclectic Spanish filmmaker Pablo Berger has made silent movies before, but never one quite like Robot Dreams. A New York tourism advert for anyone who thinks Wall-e sold out to Big Talkie after breaking its opening vow of silence, Robot Dreams communicates the aches, pains, and...
- 5/30/2024
- by Matt Schimkowitz
- avclub.com
May comes to a close with a quieter weekend full of odds and ends and nothing particularly wide in terms of studio releases. Read on for Gold Derby’s box office preview.
After a fairly disappointing Memorial Day weekend, the month ends with a number of moderately wide releases. Since most of these new films are smaller, few theater counts have been reported, making it tougher to determine how some of them might perform, though it’s likely that only one will be getting a wide enough release to potentially break into the Top 5. Otherwise, we’re looking at a repeat of the Top 4 with the slightest chance that “The Garfield Movie” might pass “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” with few of the new releases targeting family audiences.
The one movie that has the best chance at cracking the Top 5 would probably be Crunchyroll’s latest Anime feature “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle,...
After a fairly disappointing Memorial Day weekend, the month ends with a number of moderately wide releases. Since most of these new films are smaller, few theater counts have been reported, making it tougher to determine how some of them might perform, though it’s likely that only one will be getting a wide enough release to potentially break into the Top 5. Otherwise, we’re looking at a repeat of the Top 4 with the slightest chance that “The Garfield Movie” might pass “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” with few of the new releases targeting family audiences.
The one movie that has the best chance at cracking the Top 5 would probably be Crunchyroll’s latest Anime feature “Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle,...
- 5/29/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Writer-director Pablo Berger’s Robot Dreams opens on a nighttime shot of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan skyline in the distance. The year is 1984, and the Twin Towers loom, figuratively and literally, as ghostly figures. Berger’s breathtaking adaptation of Sara Varon’s graphic novel of the same name isn’t about the towers in any specific fashion, but about a world in which change is the only constant, life of any kind is at the mercy of randomness, and joy and melancholy are in ongoing symbiosis. In other words, our world—albeit one populated here, not by humans, but by anthropomorphic, humanoid animals.
Our surrogate in this world is Dog. At home by himself on a summer night, he’s drawn to a television commercial’s beckoning text (“Are you alone?”) and orders the product advertised, initially unseen by the viewer. Robot is soon delivered (some assembly required), and...
Our surrogate in this world is Dog. At home by himself on a summer night, he’s drawn to a television commercial’s beckoning text (“Are you alone?”) and orders the product advertised, initially unseen by the viewer. Robot is soon delivered (some assembly required), and...
- 5/26/2024
- by Rob Humanick
- Slant Magazine
The first significant deal at last year’s Marché du Film was Neon’s acquisition of Pablo Berger’s eventual Oscar nominee, “Robot Dreams.” Whether or not another Spanish animated film can have that kind of impact in 2024 remains to be seen, but there is a long list of contenders to consider.
Perhaps the buzziest Spanish title at this year’s market is adult animation auteur Alberto Vázquez’s “Decorado,” sold by French powerhouse Le Pacte. Like his previous titles, “Decorado” is based on a Vázquez short adapted from one of his graphic novels. Uniko, Abano Producións, The Glow Animation Studio and Sardinha em Lata produce.
“Girl and Wolf” marks the feature debut of animator and graphic novelist Roc Espinet, touted as Spain’s next adult animation auteur. Produced by Hampa Studio, Sygnatia and Alesa Films, the Latido-sold film will certainly look an appealing prospect to distributors of indie animation.
Perhaps the buzziest Spanish title at this year’s market is adult animation auteur Alberto Vázquez’s “Decorado,” sold by French powerhouse Le Pacte. Like his previous titles, “Decorado” is based on a Vázquez short adapted from one of his graphic novels. Uniko, Abano Producións, The Glow Animation Studio and Sardinha em Lata produce.
“Girl and Wolf” marks the feature debut of animator and graphic novelist Roc Espinet, touted as Spain’s next adult animation auteur. Produced by Hampa Studio, Sygnatia and Alesa Films, the Latido-sold film will certainly look an appealing prospect to distributors of indie animation.
- 5/19/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Eight years after his stop-motion breakout debut My Life as a Zucchini, which premiered in the Directors’ Fortnight, Swiss director Claude Barras is back at the Cannes Film Festival this year with Sauvages (Savages).
My Life as a Zucchini was an Academy Award nominee in 2017, and Barras’ new feature is, if anything, even more ambitious. It tells the story of Kéria, an 11-year-old girl who lives with her father, a Swiss ethnologist who now works for a logging company, in the rural suburbs of the province of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. She’s a typical urban girl, who loves her cell phone, hip-hop music and all things modern. She has largely turned her back on the traditions of her late mother, who was a member of the Penan, a nomadic group of hunter-gatherers whose way of life is threatened by industrial deforestation. But when her father rescues a baby orangutan,...
My Life as a Zucchini was an Academy Award nominee in 2017, and Barras’ new feature is, if anything, even more ambitious. It tells the story of Kéria, an 11-year-old girl who lives with her father, a Swiss ethnologist who now works for a logging company, in the rural suburbs of the province of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. She’s a typical urban girl, who loves her cell phone, hip-hop music and all things modern. She has largely turned her back on the traditions of her late mother, who was a member of the Penan, a nomadic group of hunter-gatherers whose way of life is threatened by industrial deforestation. But when her father rescues a baby orangutan,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Spanish animation is experiencing a historic boom. Shorts and features from the country are achieving notable success at festivals and the box office, while Spanish artists are contributing to some of the most influential film and TV productions coming from Hollywood today.
The question now is what steps should be taken to build on recent success.
Spaniard Almu Redondo won an Emmy this year for her work on the Cartoon Saloon-produced “Star Wars: Visions” episode “Screecher’s Reach,” and Pablo Berger’s Spanish feature “Robot Dreams” was nominated for a 2024 animated feature Academy Award. Few artists had as profound an impact on the aesthetic of the “Spider-Verse” films as Alberto Mielgo, who also won the animated short Oscar in 2022 for his film “The Windshield Wiper.”
Spanish artists flourishing abroad is a longstanding tradition, but one that may be waning. Many animation professionals are now staying in Spain, while...
The question now is what steps should be taken to build on recent success.
Spaniard Almu Redondo won an Emmy this year for her work on the Cartoon Saloon-produced “Star Wars: Visions” episode “Screecher’s Reach,” and Pablo Berger’s Spanish feature “Robot Dreams” was nominated for a 2024 animated feature Academy Award. Few artists had as profound an impact on the aesthetic of the “Spider-Verse” films as Alberto Mielgo, who also won the animated short Oscar in 2022 for his film “The Windshield Wiper.”
Spanish artists flourishing abroad is a longstanding tradition, but one that may be waning. Many animation professionals are now staying in Spain, while...
- 5/19/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Léa Seydoux’s latest feature will be distributed by Neon.
Seydoux stars in “The Unknown (L’Inconnue),” which will be written and directed by Academy Award-winning “Anatomy of a Fall” screenwriter Arthur Harari. The plot details for the film are still under wraps, with production looking to be completed in early 2026.
Neon will release the film in U.S. and Canadian theaters. “The Unknown” will be produced by Bathysphere, with Pathé co-producing and selling the film internationally in Cannes.
“The Unknown” is the third feature both written and directed by Harari. He previously directed “Onoda: 10,000 Nights in the Jungle,” which opened Un Certain Regard at Cannes and went on to win numerous awards including the Best Original Screenplay César. He also wrote the screenplay for “Sibyl,” which was directed by “Anatomy of a Fall’s” Justine Triet.
The deal for “The Unknown” was negotiated by Neon’s President of...
Seydoux stars in “The Unknown (L’Inconnue),” which will be written and directed by Academy Award-winning “Anatomy of a Fall” screenwriter Arthur Harari. The plot details for the film are still under wraps, with production looking to be completed in early 2026.
Neon will release the film in U.S. and Canadian theaters. “The Unknown” will be produced by Bathysphere, with Pathé co-producing and selling the film internationally in Cannes.
“The Unknown” is the third feature both written and directed by Harari. He previously directed “Onoda: 10,000 Nights in the Jungle,” which opened Un Certain Regard at Cannes and went on to win numerous awards including the Best Original Screenplay César. He also wrote the screenplay for “Sibyl,” which was directed by “Anatomy of a Fall’s” Justine Triet.
The deal for “The Unknown” was negotiated by Neon’s President of...
- 5/17/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Spanish cinema is expanding, opening up attractive film avenues to reach the worldwide market, driven by upscale commercial projects, blending of genres and a new generation of emerging female directors.
The country’s filmmakers landed three Oscar nominations: Juan A. Bayona with “Society of the Snow” (inter- national feature and makeup and hair styling); and Pablo Berger with “Robot Dreams” (animated feature). Also, four of Netflix’s top five most-popular non-English films ever are from Spain.
“The boom in talent is making for a unique and very diverse cinema,” says Guillermo Farré, Movistar Plus+ head of original films and Spanish cinema.
“The great foreign perception of Spanish cinema is driven by the productions’ quality and their international diffusion,” says Elástica Films’ María Zamora, producer of Carla Simón’s Berlinale Golden Bear winner “Alcarrás.”
“Spanish cinema is evolving with the appearance of new voices especially female and new ways of narrating,...
The country’s filmmakers landed three Oscar nominations: Juan A. Bayona with “Society of the Snow” (inter- national feature and makeup and hair styling); and Pablo Berger with “Robot Dreams” (animated feature). Also, four of Netflix’s top five most-popular non-English films ever are from Spain.
“The boom in talent is making for a unique and very diverse cinema,” says Guillermo Farré, Movistar Plus+ head of original films and Spanish cinema.
“The great foreign perception of Spanish cinema is driven by the productions’ quality and their international diffusion,” says Elástica Films’ María Zamora, producer of Carla Simón’s Berlinale Golden Bear winner “Alcarrás.”
“Spanish cinema is evolving with the appearance of new voices especially female and new ways of narrating,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Emiliano De Pablos
- Variety Film + TV
Filmax has nabbed sales rights to “May I Speak With the Enemy,” a biopic focusing on the Spanish Civil War years of Miguel Gila, who went on to pioneer stand-up in Spain. Gila developed a comedy of the absurd informed by his experiences in the conflict.
“May I Speak With the Enemy” is produced by Pecado Films, a producer on Victor Erice’s “Close Your Eyes,” and Arcadia Motion Pictures, behind Oscar-nominated “Robot Dreams” and Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s “The Beasts.”
Co-written by Alexis Morante from an original idea by Pecado producer José Alba, “May I Speak” stars newcomer Oscar Lasarte, a comedian and magician, as a young Gila, just 17 when he heads for the trenches, to suffer through battles, hunger and a botched execution by a drunken firing squad.
The experiences inspired one of his most famous sketches, where he phones up the enemy to ask them to stop the war and,...
“May I Speak With the Enemy” is produced by Pecado Films, a producer on Victor Erice’s “Close Your Eyes,” and Arcadia Motion Pictures, behind Oscar-nominated “Robot Dreams” and Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s “The Beasts.”
Co-written by Alexis Morante from an original idea by Pecado producer José Alba, “May I Speak” stars newcomer Oscar Lasarte, a comedian and magician, as a young Gila, just 17 when he heads for the trenches, to suffer through battles, hunger and a botched execution by a drunken firing squad.
The experiences inspired one of his most famous sketches, where he phones up the enemy to ask them to stop the war and,...
- 5/15/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
After serving as the U.S. distributor for Julia Ducournau’s Palme d’Or-winning 2021 body horror Titane, Neon is getting back into business with the filmmaker as the North American distributor for her next genre-bending feature, Alpha.
Golshifteh Farahani (Paterson) and Tahar Rahim (The Mauritanian) are set to star, with production on the film to kick off next fall. Details as to the plot of the film are under wraps.
Producers are Jean des Forêts and Amelie Jacquis of Petit Film and Eric & Nicolas Altmayer of Mandarin & Compagnie, with Frakas Productions co-producing. Charades and FilmNation Entertainment are handling sales in the rest of the world during the Cannes Film Festival.
Picking up Ducournau’s last feature ahead of its launch at Cannes, Neon most recently acquired worldwide rights to Longlegs helmer Osgood Perkins’ next film Keeper, starring Tatiana Maslany and Rossif Sutherland, and Steven Soderbergh’s Presence. In Cannes,...
Golshifteh Farahani (Paterson) and Tahar Rahim (The Mauritanian) are set to star, with production on the film to kick off next fall. Details as to the plot of the film are under wraps.
Producers are Jean des Forêts and Amelie Jacquis of Petit Film and Eric & Nicolas Altmayer of Mandarin & Compagnie, with Frakas Productions co-producing. Charades and FilmNation Entertainment are handling sales in the rest of the world during the Cannes Film Festival.
Picking up Ducournau’s last feature ahead of its launch at Cannes, Neon most recently acquired worldwide rights to Longlegs helmer Osgood Perkins’ next film Keeper, starring Tatiana Maslany and Rossif Sutherland, and Steven Soderbergh’s Presence. In Cannes,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Catalan films routinely punch above their weight at high-profile international festivals: Think 2022 Berlin Golden Bear winner “Alcarràs.” That trend looks primed to continue in 2024.
Catalan auteur Albert Serra will debut “Afternoons of Solitude,” co-produced by Catalan companies Andergraun Films and Lacima, with Ideale Audience and Tardes de Soledad.
A fall fest bet, “They Will Be Dust,” from Carlos Marqués- Marcet, is produced by Catalonia’s Lastor Media alongside Chile’s Alina Film and Kino Produzioni in Italy.
Few regions boast a lineup of female filmmakers as impressive as Catalonia. This year, new films from Goya Award winners Pilar Palomero (“Glimmers”) and Belén Funes (“The Turtles”) are strong contenders for festival recognition.
With the backing of Catalonia’s Minority Co-Production Fund, four international co-prods are poised to make a significant impact on this year’s festival circuit. Keep an eye out for Javier Rebollo’s “Close to the Sultan”, Calia Atan...
Catalan auteur Albert Serra will debut “Afternoons of Solitude,” co-produced by Catalan companies Andergraun Films and Lacima, with Ideale Audience and Tardes de Soledad.
A fall fest bet, “They Will Be Dust,” from Carlos Marqués- Marcet, is produced by Catalonia’s Lastor Media alongside Chile’s Alina Film and Kino Produzioni in Italy.
Few regions boast a lineup of female filmmakers as impressive as Catalonia. This year, new films from Goya Award winners Pilar Palomero (“Glimmers”) and Belén Funes (“The Turtles”) are strong contenders for festival recognition.
With the backing of Catalonia’s Minority Co-Production Fund, four international co-prods are poised to make a significant impact on this year’s festival circuit. Keep an eye out for Javier Rebollo’s “Close to the Sultan”, Calia Atan...
- 5/14/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The seventh edition of the Quirino Awards, an annual event dedicated to promoting animation in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, saw Spain win five of the 10 awards on offer. Housed in the Teatro Leal, in the Canary Island’s Santa Cruz de Tenerife, an eclectic and, at times, musical gala concluded an upbeat Quirino Awards.
Pablo Berger’s first foray into animation, the Oscar-nominated “Robot Dreams,” continued its charge, winning awards for best feature film and sound design. A first Neon pick-up at Cannes last year, the film has won plaudits just about everywhere, described by Variety as a “sweetly sorrowful buddy movie .”
For the second year running, best series went to Spain’s “Jasmine & Jambo – Season 2” by Silvia Cortés. Series leads Jasmine and Jambo are music-obsessed and reside in Soundland. The series effortlessly educates through music-infused plots for kids, produced by Catalan company Teidees Audiovisuals in co-production with Corporació Catalana de Mitjans Audiovisuals.
Pablo Berger’s first foray into animation, the Oscar-nominated “Robot Dreams,” continued its charge, winning awards for best feature film and sound design. A first Neon pick-up at Cannes last year, the film has won plaudits just about everywhere, described by Variety as a “sweetly sorrowful buddy movie .”
For the second year running, best series went to Spain’s “Jasmine & Jambo – Season 2” by Silvia Cortés. Series leads Jasmine and Jambo are music-obsessed and reside in Soundland. The series effortlessly educates through music-infused plots for kids, produced by Catalan company Teidees Audiovisuals in co-production with Corporació Catalana de Mitjans Audiovisuals.
- 5/12/2024
- by Callum McLennan
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Neon has hired marketing and publicity veteran Joey Monteiro as EVP, International Marketing and Ashley Hirsch as Manager of International Sales and Marketing. The move further expands the company’s global footprint as it grows its international sales arm headed up by seasoned sales executive Kristen Figeroid.
With a career spanning more than two and a half decades, Monteiro joins Neon from Sierra-Affinity/eOne, where he served as EVP of Marketing and Publicity and was responsible for creative marketing across film markets and festivals as well as international distribution. He handled campaigns on Academy Award-winning titles including: Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive, starring Ryan Gosling; Miles Teller starrer Whiplash; Margot Robbie starrer I, Tonya; Manchester By The Sea with Casey Affleck; and Nightcrawler with Jake Gyllenhaal, among others.
Prior to that, Monteiro worked at Warner Brothers Pictures as Director of Digital Marketing and Lionsgate as SVP of International Marketing,...
With a career spanning more than two and a half decades, Monteiro joins Neon from Sierra-Affinity/eOne, where he served as EVP of Marketing and Publicity and was responsible for creative marketing across film markets and festivals as well as international distribution. He handled campaigns on Academy Award-winning titles including: Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive, starring Ryan Gosling; Miles Teller starrer Whiplash; Margot Robbie starrer I, Tonya; Manchester By The Sea with Casey Affleck; and Nightcrawler with Jake Gyllenhaal, among others.
Prior to that, Monteiro worked at Warner Brothers Pictures as Director of Digital Marketing and Lionsgate as SVP of International Marketing,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Diana Lodderhose
- Deadline Film + TV
The filmmakers of My Life as a Courgette and Persepolis are set to return to the big stage with their latest films as the Cannes Film Festival have pumped in the very last titles for the 2024 edition pumping a pair of animated films in the Screening for Young Audiences section and a quartet of premieres for Cinéma de la Plage section.
Not unlike the spotlight inclusion of Robot Dreams last year, Claude Barras‘ Sauvages! is the tale of 11-year-old Kéria who lives with her father in the rural suburbs of the province of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo.…...
Not unlike the spotlight inclusion of Robot Dreams last year, Claude Barras‘ Sauvages! is the tale of 11-year-old Kéria who lives with her father in the rural suburbs of the province of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo.…...
- 4/26/2024
- by Eric Lavallée
- IONCINEMA.com
While Hayao Miyazaki deservedly took home the Oscar for The Boy and the Heron, another nominee is well worth your attention. Pablo Berger’s Cannes favorite Robot Dreams, which had an awards-qualifying run way back in December (solidifying it as a 2023 film), will finally properly open next month from Neon. Ahead of the release, a new trailer has arrived.
Here’s the simple synopsis: “Dog lives in Manhattan and he’s tired of being alone. One day he decides to build himself a robot, a companion. Their friendship blossoms, until they become inseparable, to the rhythm of 80’s NYC. One summer night, Dog, with great sadness, is forced to abandon Robot at the beach.”
John Fink said in his review, “By far one of the most delightful films of the year––even when it breaks your heart––Pablo Berger’s Robot Dreams is a deceptively simple take on companionship that...
Here’s the simple synopsis: “Dog lives in Manhattan and he’s tired of being alone. One day he decides to build himself a robot, a companion. Their friendship blossoms, until they become inseparable, to the rhythm of 80’s NYC. One summer night, Dog, with great sadness, is forced to abandon Robot at the beach.”
John Fink said in his review, “By far one of the most delightful films of the year––even when it breaks your heart––Pablo Berger’s Robot Dreams is a deceptively simple take on companionship that...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
“Robot Dreams”, a new.animated feature directed by Pablo Berger, recently nominated for an Academy Award, stars Ivan Labanda , Tito Trifol , Rafa Calvo and José García Tos, with a streaming release Tba:
Based on the graphic novel title by Sara Varon, ‘Robot Dreams’ tells the adventures and misfortunes of ‘Dog’ and ‘Robot’…
“…in NYC during the 1980’s.
Click the images to enlarge…...
Based on the graphic novel title by Sara Varon, ‘Robot Dreams’ tells the adventures and misfortunes of ‘Dog’ and ‘Robot’…
“…in NYC during the 1980’s.
Click the images to enlarge…...
- 4/23/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Oscar-nominated “Robot Dreams” is getting a theatrical release almost one year after its Cannes debut.
Directed by Pablo Berger, “Robot Dreams” is based on a graphic novel by Sara Varon and follows the unexpected friendship between a dog and a robot. Dog lives in Manhattan and is tired of being alone, so he does what any good boy would do: build himself a robot companion. Their friendship blossoms until they become inseparable — until Dog is forced to abandon Robot at the beach. And it’s all set to ’80s music.
The Oscar-nominated feature premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and later won the Special Jury Prize at the Animation Is Film Festival. “Robot Dreams” marks the “Blancanieves” filmmaker Berger’s animated feature debut.
“With ‘Robot Dreams’ I wanted to explore the infinite narrative possibilities of animation. A medium
where everything is possible and there are no formal limits,” Berger said in a press statement.
Directed by Pablo Berger, “Robot Dreams” is based on a graphic novel by Sara Varon and follows the unexpected friendship between a dog and a robot. Dog lives in Manhattan and is tired of being alone, so he does what any good boy would do: build himself a robot companion. Their friendship blossoms until they become inseparable — until Dog is forced to abandon Robot at the beach. And it’s all set to ’80s music.
The Oscar-nominated feature premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and later won the Special Jury Prize at the Animation Is Film Festival. “Robot Dreams” marks the “Blancanieves” filmmaker Berger’s animated feature debut.
“With ‘Robot Dreams’ I wanted to explore the infinite narrative possibilities of animation. A medium
where everything is possible and there are no formal limits,” Berger said in a press statement.
- 4/23/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
We don’t often see the release of an Oscar-nominated animated movie released in theaters after the Academy Awards ceremonies had aired, as most studios want to capitalize on the buzz of a nomination. But “Robot Dreams” is breaking with tradition as the Spanish/French animation pic is heading to the big screen next month. The movie that made the film festival circuit last year focuses on a Robot and Dog’s budding relationship in Manhattan during 1984, a unique premise and setting.
Continue reading ‘Robot Dreams’ Trailer: Neon’s Oscar-Nominated Animated Film Hits Theaters On May 31 at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Robot Dreams’ Trailer: Neon’s Oscar-Nominated Animated Film Hits Theaters On May 31 at The Playlist.
- 4/23/2024
- by Christopher Marc
- The Playlist
Neon has released the trailer for the whimsical Oscar-nominated animated feature Robot Dreams. The film will open in New York on May 31 at the Film Forum and in Los Angeles on June 7. It will expand to more theaters throughout June.
Robot Dreams is an Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature and the 2024 Goya Award winner for Best Animated Feature and Best Adapted Screenplay.
In the film, from writer and director Pablo Berger, Dog lives in Manhattan and is tired of being alone. One day, he decides to build himself a robot, a companion.
Their friendship blossoms until they become inseparable from the rhythm of ’80s NYC. One summer night, Dog, with great sadness, is forced to abandon Robot at the beach. Will they ever meet again?
A tender, affecting tale of friendship, the animated Robot Dreams – adapted from the graphic novel of the same name by Sara Varon – is...
Robot Dreams is an Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature and the 2024 Goya Award winner for Best Animated Feature and Best Adapted Screenplay.
In the film, from writer and director Pablo Berger, Dog lives in Manhattan and is tired of being alone. One day, he decides to build himself a robot, a companion.
Their friendship blossoms until they become inseparable from the rhythm of ’80s NYC. One summer night, Dog, with great sadness, is forced to abandon Robot at the beach. Will they ever meet again?
A tender, affecting tale of friendship, the animated Robot Dreams – adapted from the graphic novel of the same name by Sara Varon – is...
- 4/23/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
"It will double the size of your heart." Oh yes it will! Neon has finally unveiled the official US trailer for the beloved animated film Robot Dreams, made by director Pablo Berger, which first premiered at the 2023 Cannes and Annecy Film Festivals. The film snuck in and ended up getting nominated for Best Animated Film at the 2024 Academy Awards (after a small qualifying theatrical release in the US last fall). Neon has finally scheduled Robot Dreams to open in US theaters on May 31st - so if you've been waiting to watch it, not too much longer now. A story about friendship, its importance, and its fragility. The wonderful dialogue-free film is based on the popular graphic novel by Sara Varon, about the adventures and misfortunes of Dog and Robot in New York City during the '80s. Dog is lonely so he orders a Robot companion, but then Robot...
- 4/23/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
20,000 Species Of Bees, the debut film by Basque filmmaker Estibaliz Urresola Solaguren, and Society Of The Snow, J. A. Bayona’s survival drama for Netflix, dominated the top honors at the eleventh Platino Awards Saturday evening.
The Mexican award show took place this year at the El Gran Tlachco theater in Xcaret Park, Riviera Maya. Bayona took best director on the night for Society Of The Snow. The film also won Best Feature while 20,000 Species Of Bees nabbed Best Screenplay and Best First Feature.
20,000 Species Of Bees debuted at the Berlin Film Festival, where lead actor Sofía Otero took the silver bear for best leading performance. The film is set during a summer in a village house linked to beekeeping and follows an eight-year-old and her mother experiencing revelations that will change their lives forever.
Bayona’s Society Of The Snow closed last year’s Venice Film Festival.
The Mexican award show took place this year at the El Gran Tlachco theater in Xcaret Park, Riviera Maya. Bayona took best director on the night for Society Of The Snow. The film also won Best Feature while 20,000 Species Of Bees nabbed Best Screenplay and Best First Feature.
20,000 Species Of Bees debuted at the Berlin Film Festival, where lead actor Sofía Otero took the silver bear for best leading performance. The film is set during a summer in a village house linked to beekeeping and follows an eight-year-old and her mother experiencing revelations that will change their lives forever.
Bayona’s Society Of The Snow closed last year’s Venice Film Festival.
- 4/21/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
In a triumphant night for Spain, J.A. Bayona’s Oscar-nominated “Society of the Snow” swept the top prizes at Platino Xcaret, named after the venue of the annual Platino Awards this year, which took place at the Xcaret Park, Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Argentina cinema’s plight, exacerbated by far-right president Javier Milei’s closure of its film institute, Incaa, was also on many people’s minds.
Citing veteran Argentine filmmaker Adolfo Aristarain as one of his inspirations, Bayona said upon receiving his best director award: “Argentina, we are here standing by your side, you’re not alone.”
Bayona’s harrowing account of the 1972 Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crash, from which only 16 people survived after 72 days stranded in the Andes, became Netflix’s second most-viewed non-English film of all time. “I wouldn’t be here without the book that Pablo Vierci wrote,” said Bayona, who also thanked his cast and crew,...
Argentina cinema’s plight, exacerbated by far-right president Javier Milei’s closure of its film institute, Incaa, was also on many people’s minds.
Citing veteran Argentine filmmaker Adolfo Aristarain as one of his inspirations, Bayona said upon receiving his best director award: “Argentina, we are here standing by your side, you’re not alone.”
Bayona’s harrowing account of the 1972 Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crash, from which only 16 people survived after 72 days stranded in the Andes, became Netflix’s second most-viewed non-English film of all time. “I wouldn’t be here without the book that Pablo Vierci wrote,” said Bayona, who also thanked his cast and crew,...
- 4/21/2024
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
Did you spot all the references? Can you always notice them all? Madman Films has debuted a wonderful new promo video for the beloved animated film Robot Dreams, which first premiered at the 2023 Cannes & Annecy Film Festivals last year. The film also snuck in and ended up nominated for Best Animated Film at the 2024 Academy Awards earlier this year, but it didn't win. This fun 60-second video examines references in this movie that are inspired by other shots & scenes in other classic movies - including from Manhattan, The Wizard of Oz, The Big Lebowski, and Psycho. A story about friendship, its importance, and its fragility. The dialogue-free animated film is based on the popular graphic novel by Sara Varon, about the adventures and misfortunes of Dog and Robot in NYC during the '80s. Dog is lonely so he orders a Robot companion, but then Robot gets stuck in the...
- 4/15/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Every year, cinephiles wake up early for the announcement from France of the films playing at the Cannes Film Festival. For the 77th Cannes Film Festival taking place this May, they have revealed a worldwide selection of intriguing new films, featuring new works from well-established filmmakers (the usual for this festival), as well as some first-timers. Cannes is continuing in its usual spot in late May, running from May 14th to 25th, kicking things off with George Miller's highly anticipated Furiosa. Just over a month until the fest opens. The selection last year included a number of major films that went on to impact cinema after Cannes - including Killers of the Flower Moon, Robot Dreams, The Zone of Interest, Anatomy of a Fall, La Chimera, The Taste of Things. This year I'm excited to watch Anora, Kinds of Kindness, The Substance, The Surfer, The Shrouds, Megalopolis, and many others.
- 4/11/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
A UK print film magazine, and a big one too! Here’s Film Stories issue 49 – an issue going very much beyond the blockbusters.
Introducing issue 49 of Film Stories, where once again we’ve clearly gone mad and produced another 168 page bumper issue. And printed it on nice paper too!
We’re 100% independent, and this issue – as always – we’re celebrating fellow independents. But also: our front cover goes utterly beyond blockbuster film, and gives the whole cover over to indie movies.
We’re really proud of it. We hope you’re going to like it, and we hope you might consider supporting it. Sold primarily via mail order, and popping up in a few WHSmiths stores around the country too, here’s the cover of the new issue…
And inside?
If you’re looking to support films beyond the blockbusters, then amongst the treats in this huge 168-page issue:
* Swede...
Introducing issue 49 of Film Stories, where once again we’ve clearly gone mad and produced another 168 page bumper issue. And printed it on nice paper too!
We’re 100% independent, and this issue – as always – we’re celebrating fellow independents. But also: our front cover goes utterly beyond blockbuster film, and gives the whole cover over to indie movies.
We’re really proud of it. We hope you’re going to like it, and we hope you might consider supporting it. Sold primarily via mail order, and popping up in a few WHSmiths stores around the country too, here’s the cover of the new issue…
And inside?
If you’re looking to support films beyond the blockbusters, then amongst the treats in this huge 168-page issue:
* Swede...
- 4/8/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
RankFilm (distributor)Three-day gross (Apr 5-7)Total gross to dateWeek 1. Kung Fu Panda 4 (Universal) £2.8m £12.8m 2 2. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (Warner Bros) £2m £9.2m 2 3. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Sony) £1.4m £12.1m 3 4. Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros) £1.1m £36.8m 6 5. Monkey Man (Universal) £763,004 £809,767 1
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.26
Universal animation Kung Fu Panda 4 knocked Godzilla x Kong: A New Empire off top spot at the UK-Ireland box office this weekend; as Dev Patel’s Monkey Man started in fifth place.
Kung Fu Panda 4 added £2.8m on its second weekend – a 28% drop that brings it to £12.8m. It is already...
Gbp to Usd conversion rate: 1.26
Universal animation Kung Fu Panda 4 knocked Godzilla x Kong: A New Empire off top spot at the UK-Ireland box office this weekend; as Dev Patel’s Monkey Man started in fifth place.
Kung Fu Panda 4 added £2.8m on its second weekend – a 28% drop that brings it to £12.8m. It is already...
- 4/8/2024
- ScreenDaily
Neon, the indie studio behind “Parasite” and “Anatomy of a Fall,” has tapped the producers of “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” Jon Read and Allison Rose Carter, to lead their growing production arm. Read and Carter are the co-founders of Savage Rose Films.
The pact comes as Neon has moved more aggressively into developing and producing its own movies, instead of focusing purely on acquiring completed films. The company’s recent foray into production have included Brandon Cronenberg’s “Infinity Pool,” Bishal Dutta’s “It Lives Inside,” Theda Hammel’s “Stress Positions,” Jazmin Jones’s “Seeking Mavis Beacon” and Tilman Singer’s “Cuckoo.” This new in-house focus also includes upcoming projects from Joshua Oppenheimer, Boots Riley and David Robert Mitchell. Under the terms of the deal, Neon will have a first-look at Savage Rose Films’ roster of projects while Read and Carter will also run Neon’s productions, reporting to Jeff Deutchman,...
The pact comes as Neon has moved more aggressively into developing and producing its own movies, instead of focusing purely on acquiring completed films. The company’s recent foray into production have included Brandon Cronenberg’s “Infinity Pool,” Bishal Dutta’s “It Lives Inside,” Theda Hammel’s “Stress Positions,” Jazmin Jones’s “Seeking Mavis Beacon” and Tilman Singer’s “Cuckoo.” This new in-house focus also includes upcoming projects from Joshua Oppenheimer, Boots Riley and David Robert Mitchell. Under the terms of the deal, Neon will have a first-look at Savage Rose Films’ roster of projects while Read and Carter will also run Neon’s productions, reporting to Jeff Deutchman,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The Sudanese drama Goodbye Julia is continuing its impressive awards run, earning the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature over the weekend at the Sonoma International Film Festival in California.
Mohamed Kordofani directed the story set in the context of the secessionist movement that led to the establishment of the independent nation of South Sudan in 2011.
“We commend the festival for its impressive selection of narrative features and unanimously select Goodbye Julia as the best film,” jurors wrote. “An outstanding first feature from Mohamed Kordofani, anchored by two stellar performances from Eiman Yousif and Siran Riak, Goodbye Julia provides a glimpse into a culture and region that’s underrepresented and underexplored in contemporary cinema.”
The jury, comprised of Rosa Bosch (Begin Again Films), Tyler Coates (The Hollywood Reporter), Rebecca Fisher (Magnolia Pictures), Jason Hellerstein (Sideshow), and Julie Huntsinger (Telluride Film Festival), awarded a Special Mention to Hesitation Wound, describing...
Mohamed Kordofani directed the story set in the context of the secessionist movement that led to the establishment of the independent nation of South Sudan in 2011.
“We commend the festival for its impressive selection of narrative features and unanimously select Goodbye Julia as the best film,” jurors wrote. “An outstanding first feature from Mohamed Kordofani, anchored by two stellar performances from Eiman Yousif and Siran Riak, Goodbye Julia provides a glimpse into a culture and region that’s underrepresented and underexplored in contemporary cinema.”
The jury, comprised of Rosa Bosch (Begin Again Films), Tyler Coates (The Hollywood Reporter), Rebecca Fisher (Magnolia Pictures), Jason Hellerstein (Sideshow), and Julie Huntsinger (Telluride Film Festival), awarded a Special Mention to Hesitation Wound, describing...
- 3/25/2024
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
RankFilm (distributor)Three-day gross (Mar 22-24)Total gross to dateWeek 1. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Sony) £4.1m £4.1m 1 2. Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros) £2.6m £30.7m 4 3. Immaculate (Black Bear) £491,000 £522,000 1 4. Wicked Little Letters (Studiocanal) £373,413 £8.2m 5 5. Migration (Universal) £370,415 £19.5m 8
Sony’s Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire topped the UK-Ireland box office with a £4.1m opening weekend, ending the three-week run of Dune: Part Two atop the chart.
Opening in 687 sites, Frozen Empire took a £5,904 location average. Its opening was up 7.7% on the £3.8m start of 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife, the first in a reboot of the franchise in 2021, with that film taking a £5,721 location average.
It is also...
Sony’s Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire topped the UK-Ireland box office with a £4.1m opening weekend, ending the three-week run of Dune: Part Two atop the chart.
Opening in 687 sites, Frozen Empire took a £5,904 location average. Its opening was up 7.7% on the £3.8m start of 2021’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife, the first in a reboot of the franchise in 2021, with that film taking a £5,721 location average.
It is also...
- 3/25/2024
- ScreenDaily
A lonely dog buys himself a robot companion and learns to see the world in a joyous new light in Spanish director Pablo Berger’s exquisite, Oscar-nominated film
It’s an almost entirely dialogue-free animation, captured with pleasingly simple, almost naive 2D character design. The warm and disarming storytelling is bolstered by the film’s unassuming use of humour. But come to Robot Dreams well stocked with tissues: Pablo Berger’s exquisite, bittersweet, Oscar-nominated buddy movie about the bond between a dog and a robot matches Spike Jonze’s Her as one of cinema’s most devastating and profound studies of loneliness and the fragility of emotional connections. If any further evidence were needed to support the theory that we are enjoying a new boom time for quality animation, then this is it.
The appealingly clean, uncomplicated character design is based on that of the source material, a graphic novel...
It’s an almost entirely dialogue-free animation, captured with pleasingly simple, almost naive 2D character design. The warm and disarming storytelling is bolstered by the film’s unassuming use of humour. But come to Robot Dreams well stocked with tissues: Pablo Berger’s exquisite, bittersweet, Oscar-nominated buddy movie about the bond between a dog and a robot matches Spike Jonze’s Her as one of cinema’s most devastating and profound studies of loneliness and the fragility of emotional connections. If any further evidence were needed to support the theory that we are enjoying a new boom time for quality animation, then this is it.
The appealingly clean, uncomplicated character design is based on that of the source material, a graphic novel...
- 3/24/2024
- by Wendy Ide
- The Guardian - Film News
Halloween isn't for another few months, but this week's Empire Podcast delivers a hat-trick of horrors nonetheless, as Chris Hewitt has spooky sitdowns on Zoom with the stars of three scary fillums that are all out this week. First, Sydney Sweeney, star and producer of nun-more-black horror, Immaculate, talks about sticking the landing and possession. [21:24 - 37:37 approx] Then, David Dastmalchian, star of stylish found footage shocker, Late Night With The Devil, dials in from his trailer in Toronto, where he's currently working, to talk that movie, The Dark Knight, life goals, Ant-Man And The Wasp and more. [55:16 – 1:15:44 approx.] And finally, a man who ain't afraid of no ghost, it's original Ghostbuster, Ernie Hudson, aka Winston Zeddemore, who has a chat about Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire that was shorter than usual due to Chris having issues with hotel wifi from Dublin. [1:44:32 — 1:54:43 approx.]
Then, in the podbooth in London, Chris is joined by Helen O'Hara and James Dyer...
Then, in the podbooth in London, Chris is joined by Helen O'Hara and James Dyer...
- 3/22/2024
- by Chris Hewitt
- Empire - Movies
Spooky titles lead the new openers at the UK and Ireland box office this weekend with Sony’s Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire unleashing into 687 cinemas.
The fifth addition to the ghoul-hunting franchise is slightly up from its predecessor Ghostbusters: Afterlife which opened in 670 locations in 2021. That film had an opening weekend of £3.7m and ended shy of £12m. It also has more locations than Paul Feig’s female reboot which debuted in 581 sites in 2016 before making £4.4m in its opening weekend.
The first Ghostbusters made an impressive £12.4m at the box office back in 1984 while Ghostbusters II scored £8.3m in 1989.
Gil Kenan...
The fifth addition to the ghoul-hunting franchise is slightly up from its predecessor Ghostbusters: Afterlife which opened in 670 locations in 2021. That film had an opening weekend of £3.7m and ended shy of £12m. It also has more locations than Paul Feig’s female reboot which debuted in 581 sites in 2016 before making £4.4m in its opening weekend.
The first Ghostbusters made an impressive £12.4m at the box office back in 1984 while Ghostbusters II scored £8.3m in 1989.
Gil Kenan...
- 3/22/2024
- ScreenDaily
Warner Bros.’ “Dune: Part II” continued its sway atop the U.K. and Ireland box office for a third consecutive weekend with £4 million ($5.1 million), according to numbers from Comscore.
Denis Villeneuve’s anticipated sequel has an all-star cast including Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling and Javier Bardem reprising their roles from the first film, with Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Christopher Walken and Léa Seydoux joining them. The film’s total now stands at £26.2 million in the territory.
In second place, in its fourth weekend, Studiocanal’s “Wicked Little Letters” collected £589,610 for a total of £7.3 million. In third position, in its seventh weekend, Universal’s “Migration” earned £574,434 for a total of £19 million.
In fourth place, in its fifth weekend, Paramount’s “Bob Marley: One Love” sang its way to another £509,149 for a total of £16 million. Rounding off the top five was Lionsgate’s...
Denis Villeneuve’s anticipated sequel has an all-star cast including Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling and Javier Bardem reprising their roles from the first film, with Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Christopher Walken and Léa Seydoux joining them. The film’s total now stands at £26.2 million in the territory.
In second place, in its fourth weekend, Studiocanal’s “Wicked Little Letters” collected £589,610 for a total of £7.3 million. In third position, in its seventh weekend, Universal’s “Migration” earned £574,434 for a total of £19 million.
In fourth place, in its fifth weekend, Paramount’s “Bob Marley: One Love” sang its way to another £509,149 for a total of £16 million. Rounding off the top five was Lionsgate’s...
- 3/20/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Ready to head back to the Wasteland and experience another outlandish post-apocalyptic vision from George Miller? Well, step this way – Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is revving up its engine, set to unleash a fresh batch of mayhem on the multiplexes. And the new issue of Empire is a world-exclusive deep-dive into the madness, speaking to Miller and his stars – including Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth – about their all-new action epic.
The issue hits newsstands on Thursday 14 March – but before then, take a sneak peek below at what’s inside.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Fire. Blood. Oil. Chrome. The world of Mad Max is exploding back onto the screen with the tale of the one and only Imperator Furiosa. We speak to filmmaker George Miller, stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth and more, getting the lowdown on Furiosa’s vengeful saga, the mind-blowing action, and Hemsworth’s wild new villain Dementus.
The issue hits newsstands on Thursday 14 March – but before then, take a sneak peek below at what’s inside.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Fire. Blood. Oil. Chrome. The world of Mad Max is exploding back onto the screen with the tale of the one and only Imperator Furiosa. We speak to filmmaker George Miller, stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth and more, getting the lowdown on Furiosa’s vengeful saga, the mind-blowing action, and Hemsworth’s wild new villain Dementus.
- 3/13/2024
- by Ben Travis
- Empire - Movies
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.