Jeannette Charles, an actress whose uncanny resemblance to Queen Elizabeth II launched a movie career that included scene-stealing moments in National Lampoon’s European Vacation, The Naked Gun, and Austin Powers sequel Goldmember, died June 2 at a care home in Great Beddow in Essex, England. She was 96.
Her death was announced by daughter Carol Christophi to UK publications The Mirror and The Standard. “Mum was a real character and a force of nature,” Christophi said in a statement. “She had an amazing life.” In an interview with UK radio station Lbc, Christophi said, “She was always respectful of the Queen and adored the Royal Family. We will miss her dearly.”
In a 2022 essay for The Guardian, Charles explained how she began her career as a lookalike. “Before I had children,” she wrote, “I’d worked as an au pair and a typist, but I’d always wanted to act. I’d been in amateur productions,...
Her death was announced by daughter Carol Christophi to UK publications The Mirror and The Standard. “Mum was a real character and a force of nature,” Christophi said in a statement. “She had an amazing life.” In an interview with UK radio station Lbc, Christophi said, “She was always respectful of the Queen and adored the Royal Family. We will miss her dearly.”
In a 2022 essay for The Guardian, Charles explained how she began her career as a lookalike. “Before I had children,” she wrote, “I’d worked as an au pair and a typist, but I’d always wanted to act. I’d been in amateur productions,...
- 6/5/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Jeannette Charles, the Queen Elizabeth II look-alike who played the British monarch for laughs in National Lampoon’s European Vacation, in the first Naked Gun movie and in the last Austin Powers film, has died. She was 96.
Charles died Sunday at a hospice facility in Great Baddow, Essex, England, her daughter, Carol Christophi, announced. “Mum was a real character and a force of nature. She had an amazing life,” she said. “She was always respectful of the queen and adored the royal family.”
Queen Elizabeth II died in September 2022, also at age 96.
Charles spent more than four decades doubling for the head of state before she wound down her career in 2014.
“I think the first time I was recognized [as the queen] was on a trip [in 1971] to Capri in Italy, with my Italian pen friend Florence,” she recalled in a 2012 interview. “Someone shouted ‘Princess Elizabeth’ in Italian, my friend explained her majesty had...
Charles died Sunday at a hospice facility in Great Baddow, Essex, England, her daughter, Carol Christophi, announced. “Mum was a real character and a force of nature. She had an amazing life,” she said. “She was always respectful of the queen and adored the royal family.”
Queen Elizabeth II died in September 2022, also at age 96.
Charles spent more than four decades doubling for the head of state before she wound down her career in 2014.
“I think the first time I was recognized [as the queen] was on a trip [in 1971] to Capri in Italy, with my Italian pen friend Florence,” she recalled in a 2012 interview. “Someone shouted ‘Princess Elizabeth’ in Italian, my friend explained her majesty had...
- 6/5/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jeanette Charles, Queen Elizabeth Lookalike Actress From The Naked Gun and Austin Powers, Dead at 96
Jeanette Charles, a British actress famous for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth in countless films and television series including The Naked Gun, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, and Austin Powers in Goldmember, has died at the age of 96.
Hailing from Essex, Charles ironically had trouble obtaining roles in her early days due to her resemblance to the Queen of England. However, when she began to receive lucrative offers to portray the Queen both in advertisements and in film, she began to embrace her role as an impersonator.
Charles’ most notable on-screen appearances as Queen Elizabeth came in 1985’s National Lampoon’s European Vacation, where she appeared in Ellen Griswold’s dreams; in 1988’s The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!, where she was the target of an assassination plot at an Anaheim Angels baseball game — and also threw a screwball; and in 2002’s Austin Powers in Goldmember, where she honored Austin with knighthood.
Hailing from Essex, Charles ironically had trouble obtaining roles in her early days due to her resemblance to the Queen of England. However, when she began to receive lucrative offers to portray the Queen both in advertisements and in film, she began to embrace her role as an impersonator.
Charles’ most notable on-screen appearances as Queen Elizabeth came in 1985’s National Lampoon’s European Vacation, where she appeared in Ellen Griswold’s dreams; in 1988’s The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!, where she was the target of an assassination plot at an Anaheim Angels baseball game — and also threw a screwball; and in 2002’s Austin Powers in Goldmember, where she honored Austin with knighthood.
- 6/5/2024
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Film News
Ya know that feeling when you watch something dumb, and even though you know it’s stupid, you can’t help but laugh and enjoy yourself? The 1980s are full of comedies like that. Yeah, we know they’re dumb and not especially clever, but whatever, man, every now and then, you’re in a bad mood, and you want to turn your brain off. That’s why they made seven Police Academy movies. No one thought they were good, but we watched them anyway because they were stupid in a pleasing way.
This brings me to this rare comedy-focused episode of The Best Movie You Never Saw, about a movie I loved as a kid that doesn’t super hold up forty years later, but it is still kinda fun – Johnny Dangerously. A gangster comedy in the vein of Airplane, Johnny Dangerously is probably a movie many younger viewers...
This brings me to this rare comedy-focused episode of The Best Movie You Never Saw, about a movie I loved as a kid that doesn’t super hold up forty years later, but it is still kinda fun – Johnny Dangerously. A gangster comedy in the vein of Airplane, Johnny Dangerously is probably a movie many younger viewers...
- 5/5/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
1985’s Fletch was directed by Michael Ritchie and written by Andrew Bergman. The film is an adaptation of the popular novels written by Gregory McDonald and brings a more comedic and dry approach to its titular character, Fletch, played by Chevy Chase. Fletch is an investigative journalist working the undercover beat as a homeless beach junkie as he tries to uncover the truth behind a kingpin-level drug ring that is looming over greater L.A. While undercover, Fletch is propositioned by a rich man called Alan Stanwick who claims to be dying of bone cancer to kill the man in his upper-class home so that his family can reap the benefits of his life insurance. In exchange, Fletch will receive $50,000 cash and a ticket out of the country.
When this movie was made, Chevy Chase was arguably at the height of his career. While he’d opened the decade with a few horrible flops,...
When this movie was made, Chevy Chase was arguably at the height of his career. While he’d opened the decade with a few horrible flops,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Ah, "The Addams Family." They're creepy and they're kooky. Mysterious and spooky. They're all together ooky. And so on. The ghoulish Addamses were created by cartoonist Charles Addams in the pages of The New Yorker before Hollywood came calling, adapting Addams' comics into a TV series in 1964. The series followed a family of weirdos who live every day like it's Halloween, much to the confusion of the normal folks all around them. The original "The Addams Family" series lasted only two seasons, running between 1964 and 1966, but its impact and influence continued for decades.
Sadly, the majority of the original cast of "The Addams Family" are no longer with us. But there's one main player who is still around.
Read more: Actors Who Damaged Their Bodies Forever For A Movie Role
John Astin (Gomez Addams)
John Astin played Gomez Addams on the show. A former lawyer and frequent cigar smoker, Gomez...
Sadly, the majority of the original cast of "The Addams Family" are no longer with us. But there's one main player who is still around.
Read more: Actors Who Damaged Their Bodies Forever For A Movie Role
John Astin (Gomez Addams)
John Astin played Gomez Addams on the show. A former lawyer and frequent cigar smoker, Gomez...
- 2/25/2024
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
It's time to rent a Family Truckster, cue up Lindsey Buckingham's "Holiday Road," and hope our wife doesn't catch us checking out a mysterious hot babe in a sports car -- because it's time to rank all of the films in the "Vacation" franchise. Part family drama, part romantic comedy, part slapstick showcase, and 100 percent a showcase for Chevy Chase to prove why he's Chevy Chase and we're not, National Lampoon's "Vacation" series is home to some of the best bits in American comedy cinema.
Whether they're staying at home for the holidays, pressing their luck in Vegas, traveling cross country, or flying overseas, the Griswolds have set the bar hellishly low for family vacations (which means the only place to go is up for the rest of us). Sure, some of the jokes have seen better days, but the longevity of the series lies with the relatable family...
Whether they're staying at home for the holidays, pressing their luck in Vegas, traveling cross country, or flying overseas, the Griswolds have set the bar hellishly low for family vacations (which means the only place to go is up for the rest of us). Sure, some of the jokes have seen better days, but the longevity of the series lies with the relatable family...
- 12/26/2023
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
If you like movies about empty-headed dips and their resentful families, then National Lampoon's "Vacation" movies certainly have you covered. Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, is an exemplar -- perhaps the Ur-example -- of a clueless dad obsessed with fulfilling the typical American suburban dream despite a general lack of wit or competence. Clark claims to be an expert in everything, assuring his family that everything will be fine, and yet he displays no acumen or skill, and his family repeatedly witnesses him fail. We sympathize with Clark, however, as many of his failings are the result of bad luck; Clark isn't very good at traversing the daily onus of trivial nonsense, but the world seems cosmically hellbent on punishing him for his incompetence.
The "Vacation" movies began their life as a short story called "Vacation '58," written by John Hughes and first published in the celebrated "National Lampoon...
The "Vacation" movies began their life as a short story called "Vacation '58," written by John Hughes and first published in the celebrated "National Lampoon...
- 12/25/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
This Thursday at 8:00 Pm on CW, viewers are in for a humorous and heartwarming escapade with “Son of a Critch” Season 2 Episode 9, titled “European Vacation.” In this entertaining installment, Mark, the protagonist, finds himself on a mission to win back the affections of Fox, adding a dash of teenage romance to the storyline.
The episode takes a comedic turn as Pop, Mark’s endearing grandfather, seizes the school trip as an opportunity to revisit his past life as a bootlegger with none other than the notorious Al Capone. This unexpected twist promises a blend of nostalgia, humor, and perhaps a few unforeseen challenges for Pop as he delves into the world of his colorful past.
For those craving a mix of laughter and sentimental moments, “Son of a Critch” continues to deliver. Tune in at 8:00 Pm for an evening of familial adventures and teenage shenanigans on CW.
Release...
The episode takes a comedic turn as Pop, Mark’s endearing grandfather, seizes the school trip as an opportunity to revisit his past life as a bootlegger with none other than the notorious Al Capone. This unexpected twist promises a blend of nostalgia, humor, and perhaps a few unforeseen challenges for Pop as he delves into the world of his colorful past.
For those craving a mix of laughter and sentimental moments, “Son of a Critch” continues to deliver. Tune in at 8:00 Pm for an evening of familial adventures and teenage shenanigans on CW.
Release...
- 12/14/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Known for his smug, bemused sense of humor, Chevy Chase became famous for a series of highly profitable comedies. Let’s take a look back at 12 of his greatest films, ranked worst to best.
Born in New York in 1943, Chase turned to comedy after a series of odd jobs. After a short stint with the “National Lampoon,” he shot to stardom in 1975 as one of the original Not Ready for Primetime Players on “Saturday Night Live.” In its first season, Chase became famous both for his pratfalls and his Gerald Ford impersonation. He was also the initial host of “Weekend Update,” starting each week with the catchphrase, “I’m Chevy Chase, and you’re not.”
After winning Emmys for writing and performing in 1976, Chase left “SNL” after one year to pursue a movie career (he was replaced by Bill Murray). He earned Golden Globe nominations as Best Comedy/Musical Actor...
Born in New York in 1943, Chase turned to comedy after a series of odd jobs. After a short stint with the “National Lampoon,” he shot to stardom in 1975 as one of the original Not Ready for Primetime Players on “Saturday Night Live.” In its first season, Chase became famous both for his pratfalls and his Gerald Ford impersonation. He was also the initial host of “Weekend Update,” starting each week with the catchphrase, “I’m Chevy Chase, and you’re not.”
After winning Emmys for writing and performing in 1976, Chase left “SNL” after one year to pursue a movie career (he was replaced by Bill Murray). He earned Golden Globe nominations as Best Comedy/Musical Actor...
- 9/30/2023
- by Zach Laws and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Robert Klane, who wrote the screenplays for the irreverent comedy classics Weekend at Bernie’s and Where’s Poppa? and directed the disco-era favorite Thank God It’s Friday, has died. He was 81.
Klane died Tuesday in his Woodland Hills home of kidney failure after a long illness, his son Jon Klane announced.
He wrote for the films Every Little Crook and Nanny (1972), Fire Sale (1977), The Man With One Red Shoe (1985), National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985), Unfaithfully Yours (1984), Walk Like a Man (1987) and Folks! (1992).
Among his TV writing credits were six episodes of M*A*S*H* and The Odd Couple: Together Again, a 1973 reunion telefilm starring Jack Klugman and Tony Randall that he also directed. He also wrote and produced Tracey Takes On…, winning an Emmy for his work in 1997.
“Bob had a brilliant comedy mind that went deeper and deeper to get to the truth,” Rob Reiner, an actor in Where’s Poppa? (1970), said in a statement.
Klane died Tuesday in his Woodland Hills home of kidney failure after a long illness, his son Jon Klane announced.
He wrote for the films Every Little Crook and Nanny (1972), Fire Sale (1977), The Man With One Red Shoe (1985), National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985), Unfaithfully Yours (1984), Walk Like a Man (1987) and Folks! (1992).
Among his TV writing credits were six episodes of M*A*S*H* and The Odd Couple: Together Again, a 1973 reunion telefilm starring Jack Klugman and Tony Randall that he also directed. He also wrote and produced Tracey Takes On…, winning an Emmy for his work in 1997.
“Bob had a brilliant comedy mind that went deeper and deeper to get to the truth,” Rob Reiner, an actor in Where’s Poppa? (1970), said in a statement.
- 9/4/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Robert Klane, screenwriter of films including “Weekend at Bernie’s” and “Where’s Poppa?,” died from kidney failure on Aug. 29 at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif. He was 81.
Klane’s son Jon shared the news with Variety in a statement, which reads, “Klane’s satirical and daring writing pushed the boundaries of good taste, while depicting the unfairness of life through themes of sex, family, madness and death.”
“Bob had a brilliant comedy mind that went deeper and deeper to get to the truth,” said filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner, who appeared in “Where’s Poppa?” “Most people have a censor in their minds and know how far they can go. Bob didn’t have a censor. That’s what made him great and set him apart. He was fearless.”
Klane wrote the screenplays for dark comedies such as 1989’s “Weekend at Bernie’s” and its 1993 sequel, as well as 1970’s “Where’s Poppa?,...
Klane’s son Jon shared the news with Variety in a statement, which reads, “Klane’s satirical and daring writing pushed the boundaries of good taste, while depicting the unfairness of life through themes of sex, family, madness and death.”
“Bob had a brilliant comedy mind that went deeper and deeper to get to the truth,” said filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner, who appeared in “Where’s Poppa?” “Most people have a censor in their minds and know how far they can go. Bob didn’t have a censor. That’s what made him great and set him apart. He was fearless.”
Klane wrote the screenplays for dark comedies such as 1989’s “Weekend at Bernie’s” and its 1993 sequel, as well as 1970’s “Where’s Poppa?,...
- 9/4/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Max’s first full month without ‘HBO’ in its rebranded title has a selection that kicks off summer 2023 in fine fashion. Three of the four iterations of “A Star Is Born,” including the most recent remake starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga, are streaming on Max in June. The 1954 and 1976 films land June 1, while the 2018 version arrives June 8.
To prepare for Margot Robbie’s performance in “Barbie” come July, one could watch one of her more intense roles as Tonya Harding in “I, Tonya” (2017). For some lighter summer watches, viewers might consider “Dolphin Tale” (2010), “Grease” (1978), “Hairspray” (2007) or “Tooth Fairy” (2010).
“Magic Mike’s Last Dance” (2023) starring Channing Tatum and Salma Hayek Pinault lands at Max after its theatrical release in February this year. Another major theatrical release from 2022, “Avatar: The Way of Water” (2022), swims onto the streamer starting June 7.
As for TV series, “Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson’s “The Idol,” starring Abel...
To prepare for Margot Robbie’s performance in “Barbie” come July, one could watch one of her more intense roles as Tonya Harding in “I, Tonya” (2017). For some lighter summer watches, viewers might consider “Dolphin Tale” (2010), “Grease” (1978), “Hairspray” (2007) or “Tooth Fairy” (2010).
“Magic Mike’s Last Dance” (2023) starring Channing Tatum and Salma Hayek Pinault lands at Max after its theatrical release in February this year. Another major theatrical release from 2022, “Avatar: The Way of Water” (2022), swims onto the streamer starting June 7.
As for TV series, “Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson’s “The Idol,” starring Abel...
- 6/1/2023
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
HBO Max is no more. In its place are…HBO and Max. Warner Bros. Discovery’s big change to its premier streaming service was simply to take the “HBO” off of the name “HBO Max,” leaving just “Max.” But in announcing its list of new releases for Max in June 2023, Warner is highlighting all of the HBO content anyway. So here is everything you can expect to find on Max (including every new HBO show) this month.
Even though June 2023 is the first full month of Max’s existence without the helpful “HBO” modifier in front of it, literally all of its major original offerings are thanks to the pay cable network. June 4 sees the premiere of The Idol, the controversial TV project starring The Weeknd and written by Euphoria‘s Sam Levinson. After that, season 3 of Danny McBride evangelical comedy The Righteous Gemstones premieres on June 18. That will be...
Even though June 2023 is the first full month of Max’s existence without the helpful “HBO” modifier in front of it, literally all of its major original offerings are thanks to the pay cable network. June 4 sees the premiere of The Idol, the controversial TV project starring The Weeknd and written by Euphoria‘s Sam Levinson. After that, season 3 of Danny McBride evangelical comedy The Righteous Gemstones premieres on June 18. That will be...
- 6/1/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Max, the new name of HBO Max as of May 23rd, will be adding a new food series with Zooey Deschanel, an animated series set in the world of Gremlins, and the rebirth of Clone High to its streaming lineup in June 2023. The Idol, starring The Weeknd and Johnny Depp’s daughter, Lily-Rose, arrives on June 4th after dividing the crowd at Cannes, and the much-anticipated third season of Warrior kicks off on June 29th.
Max’s June lineup also includes new seasons of And Just Like That…, Painting with John, and The Righteous Gemstones. Theatrical releases making their way to the streaming service include Avatar: The Way of Water and Magic Mike’s Last Dance.
Series & Films Arriving On Max In June 2023:
June 1
3:10 to Yuma (2007)
A Star Is Born (1954)
A Star Is Born (1976)
Army of Darkness (1993)
Balls of Fury (2007)
Beautiful Creatures (2013)
Big Daddy (1999)
Breach (2007)
Bulworth (1998)
Class Act (1992)
Click...
Max’s June lineup also includes new seasons of And Just Like That…, Painting with John, and The Righteous Gemstones. Theatrical releases making their way to the streaming service include Avatar: The Way of Water and Magic Mike’s Last Dance.
Series & Films Arriving On Max In June 2023:
June 1
3:10 to Yuma (2007)
A Star Is Born (1954)
A Star Is Born (1976)
Army of Darkness (1993)
Balls of Fury (2007)
Beautiful Creatures (2013)
Big Daddy (1999)
Breach (2007)
Bulworth (1998)
Class Act (1992)
Click...
- 5/28/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
The highly discussed music limited series “The Idol” is set to premiere on Max on June 4. Starring Lily-Rose Depp, pop singer The Weeknd, and Dan Levy, the show involves a rising pop star Jocelyn (played by Depp) who gets involved with Tedros (The Weeknd), a sleazy nightclub owner who may also be a cult leader. She wants a rock career, while he’s focused on exploiting everyone he meets.
Watch the trailer for “The Idol”:
Also coming to the streamer next month is the second season of “And Just Like That,” the “Sex and the City” sequel. In Season 2 — which arrives on June 22 — Charlotte’s daughter is ready to lose her virginity, Carrie explores life and love after Big, and Miranda intensifies her relationship with Che.
Check out the “And Just Like That” Season 2 trailer:
Arriving on Max on June 27 is a documentary looking at the award-winning performance art...
Watch the trailer for “The Idol”:
Also coming to the streamer next month is the second season of “And Just Like That,” the “Sex and the City” sequel. In Season 2 — which arrives on June 22 — Charlotte’s daughter is ready to lose her virginity, Carrie explores life and love after Big, and Miranda intensifies her relationship with Che.
Check out the “And Just Like That” Season 2 trailer:
Arriving on Max on June 27 is a documentary looking at the award-winning performance art...
- 5/26/2023
- by Fern Siegel
- The Streamable
A number of great movies are leaving HBO Max at the end of March, so it’s time to prioritize these titles in your queue. Filmmaker James Gunn’s sequel/soft reboot “The Suicide Squad” will depart the streaming service on March 22 after first hitting HBO Max the same day it was released in theaters back in 2021. Similarly, “Space Jam: A New Legacy” was whisked away on March 1 after also getting a day-and-date release in 2021 (sorry/not sorry if you missed it).
You also only have until March 7 to stream “Just a Boy From Tupelo: Bringing Elvis to the Big Screen,” a short documentary on the making of the Oscar-nominated biopic “Elvis.”
Other noteworthy films leaving HBO Max this month include “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford,” “Contagion,” the extended version of “Dances with Wolves,” “Ghostbusters,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Love & Basketball” and “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping.
You also only have until March 7 to stream “Just a Boy From Tupelo: Bringing Elvis to the Big Screen,” a short documentary on the making of the Oscar-nominated biopic “Elvis.”
Other noteworthy films leaving HBO Max this month include “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford,” “Contagion,” the extended version of “Dances with Wolves,” “Ghostbusters,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Love & Basketball” and “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping.
- 3/3/2023
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
The National Lampoon is not a movie studio, though it might have seemed like it in the 1980s. The humor magazine that ran from 1970 to 1998 got into the movie business in 1978 when it put its name on "Animal House." The college comedy — co-written by Harold Ramis, directed by John Landis, and starring John Belushi — was wildly successful and launched a cinematic comedy institution. After a few disappointments, National Lampoon would hit cinematic gold again in 1983 with "National Lampoon's Vacation," a cross-country family vacation movie written by John Hughes and starring Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo. The franchise would see two John Hughes-penned sequels and a fourth movie not associated with National Lampoon (1997's "Vegas Vacation").
With a hot comedy label, one of the best screenwriters in Hollywood, and the lead actors returning, what went wrong with the first sequel, "National Lampoon's European Vacation?" According to one author, Griswold family patriarch...
With a hot comedy label, one of the best screenwriters in Hollywood, and the lead actors returning, what went wrong with the first sequel, "National Lampoon's European Vacation?" According to one author, Griswold family patriarch...
- 2/5/2023
- by Travis Yates
- Slash Film
The National Lampoon-backed "Vacation" movies sit comfortably in the pop culture hive.
As it was in future filmmaker John Hughes' original National Lampoon essay "Vacation '58," the lifeblood of the hilarious, raunchy, and relatable family misadventures found in the movies comes from its fallible but undefeated patriarch. In fact, name a "Vacation" title — be it the beloved Hughes-penned '80s trilogy "Vacation," "European Vacation," and "Christmas Vacation" or one of its Lampoon label-free continuations — and the quotes that are zealously regurgitated back to you likely come from Clark W. Griswold, head of the nuclear Griswold family.
The role would be filled by Chevy Chase, a full-blown star by the time the first "Vacation" project came his way. Using a mixture of the physical comedy that made him famous on "Saturday Night Live" and a more chill iteration of the gruff father of Hughes' essay, Chase's Clark was so aggressively good-spirited...
As it was in future filmmaker John Hughes' original National Lampoon essay "Vacation '58," the lifeblood of the hilarious, raunchy, and relatable family misadventures found in the movies comes from its fallible but undefeated patriarch. In fact, name a "Vacation" title — be it the beloved Hughes-penned '80s trilogy "Vacation," "European Vacation," and "Christmas Vacation" or one of its Lampoon label-free continuations — and the quotes that are zealously regurgitated back to you likely come from Clark W. Griswold, head of the nuclear Griswold family.
The role would be filled by Chevy Chase, a full-blown star by the time the first "Vacation" project came his way. Using a mixture of the physical comedy that made him famous on "Saturday Night Live" and a more chill iteration of the gruff father of Hughes' essay, Chase's Clark was so aggressively good-spirited...
- 1/30/2023
- by Anya Stanley
- Slash Film
Amy Heckerling's 1982 film "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," written by Cameron Crowe, is a coming-of-age film that contains far more embarrassment and ambivalence about the teen experience than any expected notes of wistful nostalgia. The Ridgemont High students don't always make good decisions and find themselves stumbling toward sexual liberation and an adult sense of agency. They are trying to achieve some sense of dignity, which is difficult when your sexual encounters are mortifying and you have to wear stupid costumes to your minimum-wage job. They're not good kids or bad kids. They're complete people. It's the film's sense of emotional honesty that likely has it firmly ensconced in the pop consciousness. Its comedic moments are but icing on the cake.
"Fast Times" is set in California's San Fernando Valley, and the character played by Sean Penn, Jeff Spicoli, is a somewhat spaced-out, stoned surfer dude who has massive...
"Fast Times" is set in California's San Fernando Valley, and the character played by Sean Penn, Jeff Spicoli, is a somewhat spaced-out, stoned surfer dude who has massive...
- 1/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Christmas is coming at us faster than Santa’s sleigh, which means ’tis the season for streaming Christmas movies. While there are plenty of family-friendly options for parents — from classics like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to new entries like this year’s “Spirited” on Apple TV+ — some may prefer a slightly more raunchy selection, which is where 1989’s “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” comes in.
“Christmas Vacation” is streaming on several online platforms, including HBO Max, AMC+, The Roku Channel, fuboTV, Philo, and Sling TV. It can also be rented or purchased on VOD platforms, including YouTube, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV, and Redbox, for 3.99. In addition, AMC will air the film throughout the next few days at 8 or 10 p.m. Et, including on December 21, December 22, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, “Christmas Vacation” was the third and effectively final entry in the classic “National Lampoon” series...
“Christmas Vacation” is streaming on several online platforms, including HBO Max, AMC+, The Roku Channel, fuboTV, Philo, and Sling TV. It can also be rented or purchased on VOD platforms, including YouTube, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV, and Redbox, for 3.99. In addition, AMC will air the film throughout the next few days at 8 or 10 p.m. Et, including on December 21, December 22, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, “Christmas Vacation” was the third and effectively final entry in the classic “National Lampoon” series...
- 12/22/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Chevy Chase will always be most identified with his hapless dad character from the Vacation franchise, Clark Griswold. While this is ironic given his edgier roots on Saturday Night Live, it can’t be denied that National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has become an enduring classic, with the film airing over and over whenever the holidays approach. Written by John Hughes, the film is a departure from the racier National Lampoon’s Vacation and its sequel, European Vacation, in that this time the Griswold’s family adventures would be on the tamer side.
Rather than take his family on vacation, this time Clark assembles his relatives for an extended family reunion, with Randy Quaid’s fan-favourite Cousin Eddie returning for a victory lap from the first movie. Once again, the gorgeous Beverly D’Angelo co-stars as Clark’s wife, Ellen, but as usual for the series, the two kids, Rusty and Audrey, have been recast.
Rather than take his family on vacation, this time Clark assembles his relatives for an extended family reunion, with Randy Quaid’s fan-favourite Cousin Eddie returning for a victory lap from the first movie. Once again, the gorgeous Beverly D’Angelo co-stars as Clark’s wife, Ellen, but as usual for the series, the two kids, Rusty and Audrey, have been recast.
- 12/19/2022
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
National Lampoon’s Vacation reunion alert! Over the weekend, Chevy Chase and his wife from the iconic movies, Beverly D’Angelo, came together for a series of cozy photos on social media — and they weren’t alone… Chase and D’Angelo were also joined by “the girl in the red Ferrari” from the original Vacation movie, none other than supermodel Christie Brinkley! The three were in attendance at a convention called Steel City Con near Pittsburgh and were posting up a storm on TikTok and Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chevy Chase (@chevychase) Wearing festive holiday sweaters, the threesome posed with their arms around each other for the reunion pics. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chevy Chase (@chevychase) Chase starred in multiple versions of the National Lampoon’s Vacation franchise, including National Lampoon’s Vacation, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. ...
- 12/13/2022
- TV Insider
While there are many new movies and shows coming to Netflix in December to look forward to, the streamer unfortunately has to cut some great films this month as well. Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” along with “A Little Princess” will be leaving this month, among many others.
Oscar-winner “Blue Jasmine” starring Cate Blanchette will also depart in December. The “Men in Black” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” franchise films have a ticking clock as well, not to mention “A Cinderella Story” starring Hillary Duff, Chad Michael Murray and Jennifer Coolidge. Though Daniel Craig’s reprisal of Benoit Blanc in Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion” arrives on Netflix on Dec. 23, one of Craig’s five James Bond films, “Casino Royale” will leave Netflix on Dec. 31.
Here’s a full list of what’s leaving Netflix in December 2022:
December 9
“The Shack”
December 10
“Fast Color”
December 11
“Manhunt: Unabomber”
December 14
“Black...
Oscar-winner “Blue Jasmine” starring Cate Blanchette will also depart in December. The “Men in Black” and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” franchise films have a ticking clock as well, not to mention “A Cinderella Story” starring Hillary Duff, Chad Michael Murray and Jennifer Coolidge. Though Daniel Craig’s reprisal of Benoit Blanc in Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion” arrives on Netflix on Dec. 23, one of Craig’s five James Bond films, “Casino Royale” will leave Netflix on Dec. 31.
Here’s a full list of what’s leaving Netflix in December 2022:
December 9
“The Shack”
December 10
“Fast Color”
December 11
“Manhunt: Unabomber”
December 14
“Black...
- 12/2/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Prior to his film career, John Hughes worked in advertising and wrote comedic short stories on the side to flex his creative muscles (via The New York Times). One of Hughes' shorts, "Vacation '58," was published by National Lampoon Magazine in 1979, and then adapted into the 1983 film "National Lampoon's Vacation." The film earned 61 million and introduced the world to the shenanigans of The Griswold family. A second film in the series, "National Lampoon's European Vacation," was less successful, but Hollywood remained interested in Hughes' Griswold tales, especially one that centered on Christmas.
After producing the first two films in the franchise, executive producer Matty Simmons told Rolling Stone in a 2020 retrospective that he turned his attention to another Hughes short, "Christmas '59." In 1989, "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" became the most successful Griswold film (earning 74 million worldwide), despite being the last of the franchise, and continues to spawn loads of holiday...
After producing the first two films in the franchise, executive producer Matty Simmons told Rolling Stone in a 2020 retrospective that he turned his attention to another Hughes short, "Christmas '59." In 1989, "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" became the most successful Griswold film (earning 74 million worldwide), despite being the last of the franchise, and continues to spawn loads of holiday...
- 12/1/2022
- by Christian Gainey
- Slash Film
We’ve learned the very sad news today that veteran Scottish actor Robbie Coltrane, best known for his role in the Harry Potter movies, has passed away this week at the age of 72.
Deadline reports that Coltrane “passed away in hospital near his home in Larbert, Scotland. The award-winning actor had been in ill health for the past two years.”
Robbie Coltrane became beloved to Harry Potter fans around the world thanks to his role as the lovable Rubeus Hagrid in the hugely successful live action film franchise, a role he first played in 2001’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and continued to play straight through to the final film in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 in 2011.
Outside the world of Harry Potter, Robbie Coltrane amassed well over 100 additional film and television credits dating back to 1979, with notable projects including Krull (1983), National Lampoon’s European Vacation...
Deadline reports that Coltrane “passed away in hospital near his home in Larbert, Scotland. The award-winning actor had been in ill health for the past two years.”
Robbie Coltrane became beloved to Harry Potter fans around the world thanks to his role as the lovable Rubeus Hagrid in the hugely successful live action film franchise, a role he first played in 2001’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and continued to play straight through to the final film in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 in 2011.
Outside the world of Harry Potter, Robbie Coltrane amassed well over 100 additional film and television credits dating back to 1979, with notable projects including Krull (1983), National Lampoon’s European Vacation...
- 10/14/2022
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Early spooky season began in September, but for those late to the party by starting their celebrations in October, Netflix has a great slate of scary and festive films and TV shows on tap. “Scooby Doo” and “Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed” will be readily available the first day of the month. Friday, October 7 is a big day for releases, as it will welcome the third season of “Derry Girls,” “Luckies Girl Alive” adapted from Jessica Knolle’s best-selling novel and a new YA spin on ghost stories, “The Midnight Club.”
More book adaptations to keep your eye on for October’s Netflix arrivals include “The School for Good and Evil,” out Oct. 19 and based on the best-selling series by Soman Chainani. A heartrending and heartwarming dose of real life as well as true love can be found in the “From Scratch” series, based on the memoir of the same name by Tembi Locke,...
More book adaptations to keep your eye on for October’s Netflix arrivals include “The School for Good and Evil,” out Oct. 19 and based on the best-selling series by Soman Chainani. A heartrending and heartwarming dose of real life as well as true love can be found in the “From Scratch” series, based on the memoir of the same name by Tembi Locke,...
- 10/9/2022
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
Congrats, everyone! We’ve finally made it to another spooky season. To celebrate, Netflix is highlighting its best horror content on its list of new releases for October 2022.
It wouldn’t be October on Netflix without a new Mike Flanagan title. Thankfully the Midnight Mass showrunner returns with The Midnight Club on Oct. 7. This series, adapted from a book of the same name, takes place in a hospice for terminally ill teens who have all made a gruesome pact. This series will be followed up by other creepy TV titles like Unsolved Mysteries Vol. 3 on Oct. 18, 28 Days Haunted on Oct. 21, and most importantly: Guillermo Del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities on Oct. 25, which will collect eight terrifying stories from the famed director himself.
Read more TV Unsolved Mysteries Review (Spoiler-Free): True Crime With More Questions Than Answers By Tony Sokol TV Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 Review: Reboot Fits a Flatfoot...
It wouldn’t be October on Netflix without a new Mike Flanagan title. Thankfully the Midnight Mass showrunner returns with The Midnight Club on Oct. 7. This series, adapted from a book of the same name, takes place in a hospice for terminally ill teens who have all made a gruesome pact. This series will be followed up by other creepy TV titles like Unsolved Mysteries Vol. 3 on Oct. 18, 28 Days Haunted on Oct. 21, and most importantly: Guillermo Del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities on Oct. 25, which will collect eight terrifying stories from the famed director himself.
Read more TV Unsolved Mysteries Review (Spoiler-Free): True Crime With More Questions Than Answers By Tony Sokol TV Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 Review: Reboot Fits a Flatfoot...
- 10/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Click here to read the full article.
Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch in history and one of the world’s most recognizable — and most portrayed — figures in modern times, died Thursday. She was 96.
After 70 years of rule, Elizabeth died peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, where she had spent the summer, the Royal Family announced.
She will be succeeded by her firstborn son, Charles. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” the new king said in a statement.
A statement from His Majesty The King: pic.twitter.com/AnBiyZCher
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 8, 2022
With her official title — Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of her other realms and territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith — she was,...
Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch in history and one of the world’s most recognizable — and most portrayed — figures in modern times, died Thursday. She was 96.
After 70 years of rule, Elizabeth died peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, where she had spent the summer, the Royal Family announced.
She will be succeeded by her firstborn son, Charles. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” the new king said in a statement.
A statement from His Majesty The King: pic.twitter.com/AnBiyZCher
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 8, 2022
With her official title — Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of her other realms and territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith — she was,...
- 9/8/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Whether it's an epic cross-country journey to Walley World or a trip across the pond to Europe, the Griswold family has been bringing laughs to audiences since the early 1980s. But they've also provided some warm and fuzzy feelings, at least according to one cast member.
The initial "Vacation" series is made of four movies, three of which are from the National Lampoon magazine and written by John Hughes. The Hughes trilogy consists of 1983's "Vacation" followed by 1985's "European Vacation" and 1989's "Christmas Vacation." A fourth installment, 1997's "Vegas Vacation" was independent of National Lampoon. All four films follow the exploits of...
The post Beverly D'Angelo Always Thought of the Vacation Movies As Romantic Comedies appeared first on /Film.
The initial "Vacation" series is made of four movies, three of which are from the National Lampoon magazine and written by John Hughes. The Hughes trilogy consists of 1983's "Vacation" followed by 1985's "European Vacation" and 1989's "Christmas Vacation." A fourth installment, 1997's "Vegas Vacation" was independent of National Lampoon. All four films follow the exploits of...
The post Beverly D'Angelo Always Thought of the Vacation Movies As Romantic Comedies appeared first on /Film.
- 6/1/2022
- by Travis Yates
- Slash Film
The National Lampoon’s Vacation movie series is an iconic comedy franchise that began with John Hughes‘ short story “Vacation ’58”. Written by John Hughes, these full of entertainment films are all about the misadventures of the Griswold family.
The first five films were all distributed by Warner Bros., while they also sponsored one more installment. The movie has inspired various advertising campaigns featuring some of the original cast members in recent years!
What’s Good on Netflix: Watch 50 Popular Movies and Shows Now
The Clark Griswold family is a hilarious and entertaining group of people who always seem to be in the wrong place at just about every turn.
It’s great fun watching them try their best for laughs and out of sheer amazement that they can get into these crazy situations day after endless days!
The success of Vacation movies spawned a short-lived TV series, and there...
The first five films were all distributed by Warner Bros., while they also sponsored one more installment. The movie has inspired various advertising campaigns featuring some of the original cast members in recent years!
What’s Good on Netflix: Watch 50 Popular Movies and Shows Now
The Clark Griswold family is a hilarious and entertaining group of people who always seem to be in the wrong place at just about every turn.
It’s great fun watching them try their best for laughs and out of sheer amazement that they can get into these crazy situations day after endless days!
The success of Vacation movies spawned a short-lived TV series, and there...
- 4/4/2022
- by Israr
- buddytv.com
The Broadway-aimed stage musical adaptation of the Vacation film franchise has a new launch: The Griswolds’ Broadway Vacation, The Musical will debut in September at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre.
Originally planned, pre-Covid, for Fall 2020, the musical (formerly known by working title Broadway Vacation) will run from Sept. 10 to Oct. 1 in Seattle, followed by an engagement at Houston’s Theatre Under the Stars from Oct. 25 to Nov. 6.
The dates were announced today by producer Ken Davenport. The announcement described the engagements as “prior to Broadway,” with Broadway dates and venue “to be announced.”
The musical is based on the characters from the Warner Bros. Vacation franchise, which starred Chevy Chase and included 1983’s National Lampoon’s Vacation, National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), Vegas Vacation (1997) and the 2015 remake Vacation starring Ed Helms.
“I couldn’t think of a better place for...
Originally planned, pre-Covid, for Fall 2020, the musical (formerly known by working title Broadway Vacation) will run from Sept. 10 to Oct. 1 in Seattle, followed by an engagement at Houston’s Theatre Under the Stars from Oct. 25 to Nov. 6.
The dates were announced today by producer Ken Davenport. The announcement described the engagements as “prior to Broadway,” with Broadway dates and venue “to be announced.”
The musical is based on the characters from the Warner Bros. Vacation franchise, which starred Chevy Chase and included 1983’s National Lampoon’s Vacation, National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), Vegas Vacation (1997) and the 2015 remake Vacation starring Ed Helms.
“I couldn’t think of a better place for...
- 3/8/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
This weekly feature is in addition to TVLine’s daily What to Watch listings and monthly guide to What’s on Streaming.
With nearly 500 scripted shows now airing across broadcast, cable and streaming, it’s easy to forget that a favorite comedy is returning, or that the new “prestige drama” you anticipated is about to debut. So consider this our reminder to set your DVR, order a Season Pass, pop a fresh Memorex into the Vcr… however it is you roll.
More from TVLineGolden Globe Nominations: Succession, Morning Show, Ted Lasso Lead TV PackSuccession Season 3 Finale Recap: This Isn't Family...
With nearly 500 scripted shows now airing across broadcast, cable and streaming, it’s easy to forget that a favorite comedy is returning, or that the new “prestige drama” you anticipated is about to debut. So consider this our reminder to set your DVR, order a Season Pass, pop a fresh Memorex into the Vcr… however it is you roll.
More from TVLineGolden Globe Nominations: Succession, Morning Show, Ted Lasso Lead TV PackSuccession Season 3 Finale Recap: This Isn't Family...
- 12/12/2021
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
2021 is nearly in the books and Hulu is celebrating by heading back to the past…like, the way past. With its list of new releases for December 2021, Hulu is going positive Medieval with two swords and shield original series arriving this month.
Animated comedy Crossing Swords premieres its second season on Dec. 10. This stop-motion style tale follows Patrick (Nicholas Hoult) as he works his way up the feudal latter of The Kingdom. This will be complemented by Dragons: The Nine Realms on Dec. 23. This series is set in the How to Train Your Dragon universe and takes place over 1,000 years after the events of the films. In it, a group of modern day kids uncover the secret truth about dragons.
Hulu also has some more current options for TV this month. Original comedy Pen15 premieres the second half of its second season on Dec. 3. Watch it to relive the trauma...
Animated comedy Crossing Swords premieres its second season on Dec. 10. This stop-motion style tale follows Patrick (Nicholas Hoult) as he works his way up the feudal latter of The Kingdom. This will be complemented by Dragons: The Nine Realms on Dec. 23. This series is set in the How to Train Your Dragon universe and takes place over 1,000 years after the events of the films. In it, a group of modern day kids uncover the secret truth about dragons.
Hulu also has some more current options for TV this month. Original comedy Pen15 premieres the second half of its second season on Dec. 3. Watch it to relive the trauma...
- 12/1/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Longtime character actor Ernie Lively, whose acting career spanned five decades and included roles in such films as “Turner & Hooch,” “Passenger 57” and the “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” films, in which he played the father of his daughter Blake Lively’s character, has died, according to a representative for Lively. He was 74.
Lively died of cardiac complications in Los Angeles last Thursday. He was surrounded by his wife and all of his children.
Lively was also a successful pitchman as he starred alongside Phil McHale as part of the duo Runner & Ernie in the popular Hardee’s commercials that ran in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
Lively was born Ernest Brown Jr. in Baltimore on Jan. 29, 1947. Lively was an English professor who served in the Marines during the Vietnam War and turned to acting. On top of acting, Lively was an acting coach and mentor who guided...
Lively died of cardiac complications in Los Angeles last Thursday. He was surrounded by his wife and all of his children.
Lively was also a successful pitchman as he starred alongside Phil McHale as part of the duo Runner & Ernie in the popular Hardee’s commercials that ran in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
Lively was born Ernest Brown Jr. in Baltimore on Jan. 29, 1947. Lively was an English professor who served in the Marines during the Vietnam War and turned to acting. On top of acting, Lively was an acting coach and mentor who guided...
- 6/10/2021
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
It started as a continuation of the misadventures of the Griswold family; it ended up becoming one of the most surprisingly popular and oft-quoted holiday movies of all time.
This month marks the 25th anniversary of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, in which beleaguered patriarch Clark Griswold – played by the inimitable Chevy Chase – tries to engineer the picture-perfect seasonal festivities: the best naturally procured tree, the biggest and brightest (literally) Christmas-light display on the block, the end-of-the-year bonus from his Scrooge-like boss. It’s the only comedy to appeal...
This month marks the 25th anniversary of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, in which beleaguered patriarch Clark Griswold – played by the inimitable Chevy Chase – tries to engineer the picture-perfect seasonal festivities: the best naturally procured tree, the biggest and brightest (literally) Christmas-light display on the block, the end-of-the-year bonus from his Scrooge-like boss. It’s the only comedy to appeal...
- 12/11/2020
- by Rob LeDonne
- Rollingstone.com
We might not be getting any new episodes of The Walking Dead until next year, but AMC is supplying us with a holiday treat to tide us over. As part of the network’s Best Christmas Ever schedule, The Walking Dead is receiving a Christmas special this December that’ll see the cast of the hit zombie drama coming together virtually for a festive tease of what’s headed our way when the show returns in 2021.
Hosted by Talking Dead‘s Chris Hardwick, the holiday special will unite several fan favorite stars of the long-running series as well as its spinoffs Fear the Walking Dead and The Walking Dead: World Beyond. It’ll stream exclusively on AMC+ – the network’s new premium on-demand platform offering early access and ad-free viewing – on Sunday, December 13th. That’s one week after World Beyond wraps up its season 1 finale.
The Walking Dead Holiday...
Hosted by Talking Dead‘s Chris Hardwick, the holiday special will unite several fan favorite stars of the long-running series as well as its spinoffs Fear the Walking Dead and The Walking Dead: World Beyond. It’ll stream exclusively on AMC+ – the network’s new premium on-demand platform offering early access and ad-free viewing – on Sunday, December 13th. That’s one week after World Beyond wraps up its season 1 finale.
The Walking Dead Holiday...
- 11/3/2020
- by Christian Bone
- We Got This Covered
The summer of 1985 was a good one for movie fans — ushered in over Memorial Day weekend with Rambo 2 and the latest James Bond film, A View to a Kill, it produced a number of beloved blockbusters, including Fletch, The Goonies, Cocoon, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, and Back to the Future. Then, in [...]
The post ‘Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure’: Still Packing A Punch After All These Years appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post ‘Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure’: Still Packing A Punch After All These Years appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 8/8/2020
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Stuart Cornfeld, who worked with Ben Stiller’s Red Hour Films to produce movies including “Tropic Thunder,” “Dodgeball” and “Zoolander,” has died of cancer.
Several of his friends posted about his death on social media.
At Red Hour, which he founded with Stiller in 1999, he also produced “Duplex” starring Stiller and Drew Barrymore, “Starsky & Hutch,” “Blades of Glory” and “The Ruins.” One of the last films he produced was “The Polka King,” starring Jack Black. Stiller said on Twitter, “Stuart Cornfeld was as funny, smart, talented & cool as a person gets.”
A really great person left the planet today. Stuart Cornfeld was as funny, smart, talented & cool as a person gets. He was my friend, producing partner, and creative confidant. He knew movies, made movies and loved movies. World=less better without him. IMDb him. He was the best. pic.twitter.com/sOx85UvxC4
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) June 27, 2020
Earlier in his career,...
Several of his friends posted about his death on social media.
At Red Hour, which he founded with Stiller in 1999, he also produced “Duplex” starring Stiller and Drew Barrymore, “Starsky & Hutch,” “Blades of Glory” and “The Ruins.” One of the last films he produced was “The Polka King,” starring Jack Black. Stiller said on Twitter, “Stuart Cornfeld was as funny, smart, talented & cool as a person gets.”
A really great person left the planet today. Stuart Cornfeld was as funny, smart, talented & cool as a person gets. He was my friend, producing partner, and creative confidant. He knew movies, made movies and loved movies. World=less better without him. IMDb him. He was the best. pic.twitter.com/sOx85UvxC4
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) June 27, 2020
Earlier in his career,...
- 6/27/2020
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max is out with its list of everything coming and going from the new streaming service, and the list includes the 2019 film “Harriet” starring Cynthia Erivo as Harriet Tubman.
The HBO Originals coming next month include season four of “Room 104,” HBO Europe’s “Foodie Love,” and documentaries like “Stockton on My Mind” and “Showbiz Kids.” Other films joining include “Motherless Brooklyn,” “Midway,” and “Last Christmas.”
Leaving at the end of the month are “Aquamarine,” “Crazy Rich Asians,” “Long Shot,” “Crimson Peak,” “The Sun Is Also a Star” and “X-Men.”
Also Read: iHeartMedia, WarnerMedia to Co-Produce Companion Podcasts for HBO Max Shows
Here is the full list of everything new and leaving in July:
July 1
Absolute Power, 1997
The Adventures of Pinocchio, 1996
The Amazing Panda Adventure, 1995
American Graffiti, 1973 (HBO)
American History X, 1998
Angels in the Outfield, 1951
Angus, 1995
August Rush, 2007
The Bachelor, 1999
Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero, 1998
Batman and Harley Quinn , 2017
Batman vs.
The HBO Originals coming next month include season four of “Room 104,” HBO Europe’s “Foodie Love,” and documentaries like “Stockton on My Mind” and “Showbiz Kids.” Other films joining include “Motherless Brooklyn,” “Midway,” and “Last Christmas.”
Leaving at the end of the month are “Aquamarine,” “Crazy Rich Asians,” “Long Shot,” “Crimson Peak,” “The Sun Is Also a Star” and “X-Men.”
Also Read: iHeartMedia, WarnerMedia to Co-Produce Companion Podcasts for HBO Max Shows
Here is the full list of everything new and leaving in July:
July 1
Absolute Power, 1997
The Adventures of Pinocchio, 1996
The Amazing Panda Adventure, 1995
American Graffiti, 1973 (HBO)
American History X, 1998
Angels in the Outfield, 1951
Angus, 1995
August Rush, 2007
The Bachelor, 1999
Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero, 1998
Batman and Harley Quinn , 2017
Batman vs.
- 6/23/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
When HBO Max launched last month, DC fans hoped it would be the premiere place to go to watch all their favorite DC content. While the streaming service did have an impressive array of films and TV shows available on launch, there were a lot of notable missing titles, too, due to pre-existing licenses getting in the way. As time goes on, though, more DC properties will end up on the site. Case in point: this July will see a whole heap of superhero content go up on HBO Max.
Below you can find the full list of every movie and TV series coming to HBO Now, Go and Max next month, broken down by day of release. It includes an enormous amount of DC animated movies, mostly featuring Batman, the Justice League and Green Lantern. All of the Christopher Reeve Superman films will be up on HBO Max as of July,...
Below you can find the full list of every movie and TV series coming to HBO Now, Go and Max next month, broken down by day of release. It includes an enormous amount of DC animated movies, mostly featuring Batman, the Justice League and Green Lantern. All of the Christopher Reeve Superman films will be up on HBO Max as of July,...
- 6/23/2020
- by Christian Bone
- We Got This Covered
Matty Simmons, a founder of the Diners Club credit card and Weight Watchers magazine who found his highest profile success after co-founding National Lampoon magazine and producing film offshoots including Animal House and the Vacation franchise, died Wednesday in Los Angeles following a brief, non-coronavirus-related illness. He was 93.
Simmons death was announced by his daughter Kate Simmons.
More from DeadlineJun Maeda Dies Of Covid-19: Obie Award-Winning Theater Set Designer Was 79Veteran Casting Director Cis Corman Remembered By "Best Friend" Barbra StreisandPeter H. Hunt Dies: Tony Award-Winning '1776' Director, Uncle Of Actress Helen Hunt Was 81
“Yesterday I lost my hero,” Kate Simmons wrote on Instagram. “My dad had gone from the sharpest, healthiest 93 year old most people have encountered to abruptly having every imaginable issue except corona.”
An author of nine books including the 2012 memoir Fat, Drunk, and Stupid: The Making of Animal House (St. Martins Press), Simmons made...
Simmons death was announced by his daughter Kate Simmons.
More from DeadlineJun Maeda Dies Of Covid-19: Obie Award-Winning Theater Set Designer Was 79Veteran Casting Director Cis Corman Remembered By "Best Friend" Barbra StreisandPeter H. Hunt Dies: Tony Award-Winning '1776' Director, Uncle Of Actress Helen Hunt Was 81
“Yesterday I lost my hero,” Kate Simmons wrote on Instagram. “My dad had gone from the sharpest, healthiest 93 year old most people have encountered to abruptly having every imaginable issue except corona.”
An author of nine books including the 2012 memoir Fat, Drunk, and Stupid: The Making of Animal House (St. Martins Press), Simmons made...
- 5/1/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
It does kind of feel as though Jason Lively might have stepped onto the screen and then stepped right back off doesn’t it? Well to be fair his stint as Rusty Griswold was probably one of his bigger and more noticeable roles, but seeing as how National Lampoon’s European Vacation is still one of those that people don’t happen to think was that great it’s easier to say that his other contributions to show business were a little more well-received, even if they didn’t get him as much attention. Catching up with the older actors that at one point were
Whatever Happened to Jason Lively?...
Whatever Happened to Jason Lively?...
- 4/7/2020
- by Tom
- TVovermind.com
Hulu is out with its list of all the content that’s coming and going to the streaming service in February.
Highlights include the series premiere of Zoë Kravitz’s “High Fidelity” reboot, coming on Valentine’s Day, in which she stars as a record store owner in a gentrified Brooklyn neighborhood, revisiting past relationships through music and trying to get over her one true love. Her character was played by John Cusack in the 2000 film, and both are based on Nick Hornby’s 1995 novel of the same name.
There is also a new episode of “Into the Dark” titled “My Valentine,” which will be released on Feb. 7, in which a pop singer’s ex-boyfriend and manager steals her songs and gives them to his new protégé.
Also Read: Why Hulu Programming Chief Is Ok Sharing Classic Content Like 'Svu' With Rival Streamers
Season 1 of Hulu Original “Utopia Falls” comes out Feb.
Highlights include the series premiere of Zoë Kravitz’s “High Fidelity” reboot, coming on Valentine’s Day, in which she stars as a record store owner in a gentrified Brooklyn neighborhood, revisiting past relationships through music and trying to get over her one true love. Her character was played by John Cusack in the 2000 film, and both are based on Nick Hornby’s 1995 novel of the same name.
There is also a new episode of “Into the Dark” titled “My Valentine,” which will be released on Feb. 7, in which a pop singer’s ex-boyfriend and manager steals her songs and gives them to his new protégé.
Also Read: Why Hulu Programming Chief Is Ok Sharing Classic Content Like 'Svu' With Rival Streamers
Season 1 of Hulu Original “Utopia Falls” comes out Feb.
- 1/21/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Broadway Vacation The Musical, with characters from the popular Chevy Chase-fronted film franchise, will make its world premiere at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre this Fall.
Though no announcement was made regarding actual Broadway plans for Broadway Vacation, the Seattle venue has been the starting ground for various New York-bound productions over the years, including Hairspray, Aladdin, Memphis and First Date starring Zachary Levi, among others.
The Seattle production was announced today by 5th Avenue’s Artistic Director Bill Berry and Broadway producer Ken Davenport.
The musical will feature a book, music and lyrics by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen, with direction and choreography by Donna Feore. Casting was not announced.
“We could not be more thrilled to create the world premiere of this joyfully riotous story at The 5th,” said Berry. “I can’t wait to begin our 2020/21 season with...
Though no announcement was made regarding actual Broadway plans for Broadway Vacation, the Seattle venue has been the starting ground for various New York-bound productions over the years, including Hairspray, Aladdin, Memphis and First Date starring Zachary Levi, among others.
The Seattle production was announced today by 5th Avenue’s Artistic Director Bill Berry and Broadway producer Ken Davenport.
The musical will feature a book, music and lyrics by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen, with direction and choreography by Donna Feore. Casting was not announced.
“We could not be more thrilled to create the world premiere of this joyfully riotous story at The 5th,” said Berry. “I can’t wait to begin our 2020/21 season with...
- 1/13/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Joseph Baxter Dec 12, 2019
HBO Max bringing back the Vacation film franchise’s Griswold family in a spinoff series produced by Johnny Galecki.
The Griswolds are taking the holiday road to HBO Max!
The Vacation film franchise – after five theatrically-released films and a TV movie – is set to make its serial television debut for the premium cable channel’s 2020-launching platform, HBO Max, with a single-camera comedy spinoff titled The Griswolds. Interestingly, one of the driving forces behind this small screen venture is a former member of its eponymous family, Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki, who’s executive-producing.
Galecki will join the project’s primary driving force, Tim Hobert, who’s writing the script and executive-producing, with Galecki onboard via his Alcide Bava shingle, which will also be represented in executive-producer capacity by head Holly Brown as well as producer Cory Wood. The Griswolds will manifest as part of Galecki...
HBO Max bringing back the Vacation film franchise’s Griswold family in a spinoff series produced by Johnny Galecki.
The Griswolds are taking the holiday road to HBO Max!
The Vacation film franchise – after five theatrically-released films and a TV movie – is set to make its serial television debut for the premium cable channel’s 2020-launching platform, HBO Max, with a single-camera comedy spinoff titled The Griswolds. Interestingly, one of the driving forces behind this small screen venture is a former member of its eponymous family, Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki, who’s executive-producing.
Galecki will join the project’s primary driving force, Tim Hobert, who’s writing the script and executive-producing, with Galecki onboard via his Alcide Bava shingle, which will also be represented in executive-producer capacity by head Holly Brown as well as producer Cory Wood. The Griswolds will manifest as part of Galecki...
- 12/12/2019
- Den of Geek
HBO Max is developing a series based on the Grisworld family from the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” films, Variety has learned.
Titled “The Griswolds,” the series will see the titular family home from vacation and explore their daily lives in the suburbs of modern-day Chicago. Tim Hobert is attached to write and executive produce the half-hour single-camera series. Johnny Galecki and Holly Brown will also executive produce under their Alcide Bava production banner. Cory Wood of Alcide Bava will produce. Warner Bros. Television will serve as the studio behind the project.
The project represents a homecoming of sorts for Galecki, who starred as Russ Griswold in the third film in the franchise, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” The other films are “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “National Lampoon’s European Vacation,” “Vegas Vacation,” and “Vacation.” The last of those was released in 2015 and starred Ed Helms as an adult Russ as he takes...
Titled “The Griswolds,” the series will see the titular family home from vacation and explore their daily lives in the suburbs of modern-day Chicago. Tim Hobert is attached to write and executive produce the half-hour single-camera series. Johnny Galecki and Holly Brown will also executive produce under their Alcide Bava production banner. Cory Wood of Alcide Bava will produce. Warner Bros. Television will serve as the studio behind the project.
The project represents a homecoming of sorts for Galecki, who starred as Russ Griswold in the third film in the franchise, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” The other films are “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “National Lampoon’s European Vacation,” “Vegas Vacation,” and “Vacation.” The last of those was released in 2015 and starred Ed Helms as an adult Russ as he takes...
- 12/12/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Now approaching her fourth decade in the film industry, Amy Heckerling admits to not previously considering the possibility of a retrospective to show off her films. That is, until New York City’s newly opened Metrograph theater approached her about a weekend-long look back at her work. “I never thought about it,” she said. “‘Oh, is that what you do when you retire and crap?'”
Heckerling is, thankfully, not retiring any time soon. The filmmaker behind such modern classics as “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “Clueless,” and “Look Who’s Talking” has seen a career punctuated by some high highs and very low lows, a few of which almost ended her time in entertainment for good.
But Heckerling is nothing if she’s not resilient, and it’s been both her ability to bounce back and her sometimes stubborn desire to do things her way that have kept her making movies.
Heckerling is, thankfully, not retiring any time soon. The filmmaker behind such modern classics as “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “Clueless,” and “Look Who’s Talking” has seen a career punctuated by some high highs and very low lows, a few of which almost ended her time in entertainment for good.
But Heckerling is nothing if she’s not resilient, and it’s been both her ability to bounce back and her sometimes stubborn desire to do things her way that have kept her making movies.
- 5/12/2016
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Alec Bojalad Jan 16, 2020
We have a list of the new Hulu movies and shows arriving in February 2020.
February is a month for love and Hulu knows exactly what to do with it. For its February 2020 new releases, Hulu is introducing an original series fit for Valentine's Day. High Fidelity premieres on Valentine's Day and this modern adaptation of Nick Hornby's novel and Stephen Frears film will bring some love and music to the mid-February doldrums.
Hulu's only $5.99/month now, grab the deal here!
Another original arriving in February is Utopia Falls (also premiering on February 14), which looks to be teenage-oriented series combining Harry Potter, The Expanse, and music. That sound like something that might interest you?
February 1 sees the arrival of plenty of films to enjoy like 300, When Harry Met Sally, The Fugitive, and 28 Days Later. That's about as diverse an array of genre films as you'll get.
We have a list of the new Hulu movies and shows arriving in February 2020.
February is a month for love and Hulu knows exactly what to do with it. For its February 2020 new releases, Hulu is introducing an original series fit for Valentine's Day. High Fidelity premieres on Valentine's Day and this modern adaptation of Nick Hornby's novel and Stephen Frears film will bring some love and music to the mid-February doldrums.
Hulu's only $5.99/month now, grab the deal here!
Another original arriving in February is Utopia Falls (also premiering on February 14), which looks to be teenage-oriented series combining Harry Potter, The Expanse, and music. That sound like something that might interest you?
February 1 sees the arrival of plenty of films to enjoy like 300, When Harry Met Sally, The Fugitive, and 28 Days Later. That's about as diverse an array of genre films as you'll get.
- 1/21/2016
- Den of Geek
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