Hunting in pairs

'Midnight in Paris''A Dangerous Method'Some of the year's strongest ensembles were assembled by casting directors with long collaborative histories with particular A-list helmers.Laray Mayfield met David Fincher on the very day she arrived in L.A., and "after 25 years he's my dear friend," through six features that range from "Fight Club" to the forthcoming "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo."Ellen Lewis' "unbelievably special relationship" with Martin Scorsese began with his segment of "NY Stories" and "GoodFellas" through 12 features, including this year's "Hugo."It's a classic chicken/egg situation. Did these teams become friends because they've worked together so often? Or have they collaborated so often as a result of the friendship?"Um you know, I think that in our case ah, gosh, it's really hard to separate that out," confesses a thoughtful Juliet Taylor with a halting delivery not dissimilar to that of her boss on more than 30 films to date, Woody Allen."We spend a huge amount of time talking on the phone, just shooting the breeze about stuff," she says. "Yes, he's really a good friend. But I do think that even though we're gossiping about other stuff, the professional aspect runs really deep."For "Midnight in Paris," she says, "we spent at least a month thinking of different casts and different age groups to make the story work, more than we had on any other picture." At the same time, she and her team "did a huge amount of research" on the film's 1920s historical figures, trying to match their actual ages and appearance. "It's great if it's exact, but it's good sometimes to take a step out, so you have a little freedom to play with it."Deirdre Bowen says she and David Cronenberg, with whom she has worked on 10 films to date, "have actually grown together based on two things: an appreciation for really strong faces, and a really healthy respect for the script and what story is being told. We then find the right faces to be able to tell that story."A face likely to surprise viewers of "A Dangerous Method" is that of Viggo Mortensen as Sigmund Freud, in light of two earlier, violence-oriented turns with the helmer. But, she argues, "Freud is someone who will go out and do battle intellectually, and the character in 'Eastern Promises' will go out and do battle physically. There's a common element there. We knew Freud needed to be a very vigorous performance in order for the script to live."It doesn't hurt a thesp, then, to share the filmmakers' past. Lisbeth Salander, the eponymous "Girl With the Dragon Tattoo," was a plum part for which Mayfield says "lots and lots of girls wanted to be considered." But Rooney Mara was a known quantity to Fincher and Mayfield after "The Social Network." "We could tell early on that she was going to be a strong contender" to portray "this teeny, tiny little girl who has this tremendous strength inside her."This year, U.K-based Fiona Weir racked up her fourth "Harry Potter" film (and fifth credit overall) with David Yates, and a third consecutive credit with Clint Eastwood on "J. Edgar."Weir knew "as a filmmaker, David's taste is quite naturalistic, while the world of Harry is quite heightened. So it was exciting to bring in people like Peter Mullan and Helen McCrory, actors from a very different, natural background, and bring his taste into that world."As for Eastwood, she marvels at "his appreciation of what it costs actors in the casting process, let alone being put into the movie.""He often prefers to cast with actors who have read with me on tape, because if he's in the same room with them it's very clear they're in the presence of a screen icon, and it makes the pressure even greater."(Icons evidently have their own ways of working. For years, Allen wouldn't even read actors, Taylor says. "He'd meet them for a minute or two. They wouldn't even sit down. He'd say 'It's really nice to meet you, thanks for coming in,' and it would all be off whatever visceral reaction he had.")In the end, what solidifies the director/casting director relationship is a special kind of chemistry renewed with each successful endeavor. "I certainly enjoy the other filmmakers I work with," says Mayfield, "but because David (Fincher) and I know each other so well and have a shorthand, there's probably a more natural flow than it would be with people you don't know as well."A marriage of minds and talents, like any marriage, will have its rocky moments. "I know Woody's taste really well," Taylor says, "and I almost always agree with it. If I think he's making a big mistake, he really listens. He definitely won't go with someone if I don't think it's a good idea -- but if I think someone is a good idea and he doesn't, he can be an immovable object, obviously."Weir similarly summarizes her work with Yates. "David and I might not start in the same place, but we always end up there."When the marriage works, it's wonderful. "When I met Debi Mazar I felt she was perfect for the role of (wiseguy mistress) Sandy in 'GoodFellas,'?" Lewis recalls. "Many times the casting process is about creating the vision of the director, and sometimes the director has something so specific in his mind that you're really playing almost a guessing game with it."I remember how exciting it was that someone whom I felt was perfect for this role, he also felt was perfect. And you just pump your fist in the air, and you're like, 'That's so great that this is what you had in mind. Because so did I!'"SAG Awards: The Ensemble:Hunting in pairs | Jay displays eagle for rising talent | Expert opinions | Primetime wholes made up of great parts | SAG winners tend to head to Oscar glory Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

Julia Roberts, Gerard Butler Eye Ridley Scott Team-Ups

Ridley Scott could soon be a very busy guy. Additionally to creating a follow up to "Edge Runner," the "Prometheus" director is eying two other large budget projects he may potentially helm within the the coming year. The very first film on his docket is really a biopic about Gertrude Bell properly entitled "Gertrude Bell." The Hollywood Reporter has found that Julia Roberts is poised to star within the film, although the deal has not been completed yet. It might be her first live action film since 2010's "The Tourist," and would align together with her own curiosity about worldwide policy. Also on Scott's listing of potential projects is really a movie that may star Gerard Butler. Butler has switched gears from romcoms to action films in the last couple of years, which next flick lines up itself with this ongoing trend. Deadline is confirming that Butler and Scott are intending to create a biopic about Simon Mann, an old British military officer who planned a coup from the leader of Equatorial Guinea. It wound up being turned away in Zimbabwe where Mann spent 5 years imprisonment. Mann and the wife Amanda happen to be shopping the storyline around Hollywood for some time now, but Scott was the director who finally bit. Additionally towards the three films formerly pointed out, Scott can also be still thinking about filming "Gucci," a flick concentrating on the volatile relationship between Maurizio Gucci and the ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani. That flick may potentially star Natalie Portman. Do you enjoy either of these two new projects Scott is circling? Inform us within the comments section below or on Twitter!

Kevin Arkadie to write Larry Davis biopic

Epoch Motion Pictures has signed veteran TV crime writer/producer Kevin Arcadie to pen the biopic of Larry Davis, the South Bronx folk hero who survived a shootout with 30 police officers, wounding six before his escape touched off a 17-day manhunt.Saturday is the 25-year anniversary of the saga that began when authorities raided the apartment of Davis's sister, ostensibly to question him about the killing of four suspected drug dealers. He escaped in a hail of gunfire, wounding six officers and evading police for more than two weeks before he was cornered and surrendered.Davis's defense attorneys argued that the initial raid was staged to murder him because of he knew about corrupt police in the drug business. He was acquitted of attempted murder in the shootout, cleared in the deaths of the drug dealers but found guilty in a later murder case and stabbed to death in prison in 2008.Arcadie, whose numerous writing and producing credits include "NYPD Blue" and "The Shield," will adapt the story for Epoch, whose chairman and executive producer Anderson Vilien acquired the life rights earlier this year."We feel there's no one else that understands the subtleties and nuances of this project more than Kevin. He helped usher urban culture into the mainstream as writer/creator of NY Undercover and his 20+ year career is testament to his ability to capture the inner-city experience," Vilien said.Producers are targeting a summer 2012 shoot in the South Bronx. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

Gaumont sells 'Intouchables' worldwide

PARIS -- Gaumont has closed the last territories on comedy-drama "Intouchables," which has grossed more than $50 million in France since its release on Nov. 2. Following an upbeat AFM, Gaumont has inked sales to Japan (Gaga), Latin America (Gussi), CIS (Daro), Korea (Bloomage), Hong Kong (Golden Scene), Taiwan (Filmware) and Singapore (Cathay). Cecile Gaget, head of international sales at Gaumont, said screening the film at the AFM was decisive in helping the company ink these final deals. The Weinstein Co. had previously nabbed the rights for North America, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia, South Africa and China, and English-language remake rights. Pic will be released in Germany by Senator/Telepool, and will open the Berlin French Film Week on Dec. 2. Other distributors include Spain's A Contracorriente Films and Italy's Medusa. A friendship tale based on a true story, "Intouchables" turns on a quadriplegic aristocrat whose life gets turned upside down when he hires a young man from the projects to take care of him. Helmed by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, and produced by Quad Film, "Intouchables" toplines Francois Cluzet ("Little White Lies") and up-and-comer Omar Sy, who starred in Toledano and Nakache's previous film, "So Happy Together." The $12.9 million pic has had a phenomenal run at the French box office, and has a shot at surpassing Dany Boon's "Nothing to Declare" and taking the box office top spot. Gaget pointed out the film was also a hit in Switzerland and Belgium, where it was released by Frenetic and Victory, respectively. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

'Pocoyo' creator lists on New you are able to stock market

MADRID -- The the spanish language language toon house Zinkia Ing., the creator of worldwide pre-school brand "Pocoyo," has won a greenlight within the U.S. SEC chatting round the NY Stock Exchange's Over-the-counter market. Move enables Zinkia to "broaden its investment base, additionally to enhance its positioning inside the U.S. market, needed for company development," Zinkia mentioned in the statement. Carried out on existing shares, your chance does not involve a capital increase. Zinkia shares will trade round the New you are able to stock market as American Depositary Receipts, a real certificate that encourages the deposit of stocks in the U.S. bank -- The Lending Company of NY Mellon, in this situation -- for companies that have been established outdoors the U.S. In the united states, Zinkia began a public listing This summer time 2009 round the MAB Alternative Stock Market for Growth Companies. "Many U.S. traders have restricted utilization of firms that aren't listed in the U.S. market," mentioned a Madrid-based analyst. Given Zinkia's status to begin with-up company, "this ADRs round the Over-the-counter companies are an opportunity to provide confidence and credibility for the U.S. traders, thinking about future U.S. growth," the analyst added. Zinkia's challenge would be to attract traders at any time when the companies are concerning the the spanish language language media stocks with caution. CGI TV series "Pocoyo" accounts more than 80% of Zinkia's revenues. It has been licensed to greater than 100 nations, triggering a slew of selling, posting and certification deals. "Shuriken School," another pre-school series, is produced by Zinkia and French toon studio Xilam Animation. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

How Did Dancings J.R. Martinez Woo His Ladylove?

First Published: November 11, 2011 2:32 PM EST Credit: Access Hollywood Caption J.R. Martinez celebrates Veterans Day at Access Hollywood Live on November 11, 2011LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Dancing with the Stars frontrunner J.R. Martinez stopped by Access Hollywood Live on Friday where the beloved actor celebrated Veterans Day with Billy Bush and Kit Hoover, and dished on how his All My Children role landed him not only a steady paycheck, but a lovely lady as well. I first met her in 2008 when I joined All My Children, J.R. told Billy and Kit, of girlfriend Diana Gonzalez-Jones, who was the assistant to the soaps executive producer at the time. We were friends, and, you know, it was a workplace, so you dont want to cross the line. I was respectful of that, and for about two years we were great friends. Finally, something happened, something clicked, and I just said, [Do] you ever look at me differently than just a friend? he continued, with a shy smile. And she kind of paid attention to it, and here we are! Its great. Though the relationship was slow to blossom, J.R. is glad he and Diana who can be frequently seen in the Dancing audience proudly supporting her man built their romance on a time-tested foundation. I think we did it a great way to have a friendship first, and then build on that, he said. As for J.Rs plans after Dancing, the eternally optimistic man to beat plans to use his newfound fame to continue his mission of helping bring awareness to the troops. I want to write a book. I want to tell people the story outside of Iraq, he told Billy and Kit. And I want to continue acting its something I really love to do. But I want to use every platform that I get no matter how big it is or how small it may be to raise awareness for all of the men and women that are serving overseas, those [who are] retired, the family members, the wounded troops that are trying to find a way to fit into the world outside of the military. Adding, If I can raise awareness, and I can be an inspiration to them and say, OK, you can find something to do outside the uniform, but at the same time inspire American to step up, and give them basic ideas of what they can do to say, Thank you thats my job. In honor of Veterans Day, the Iraq War veteran who has been named Grand Marshal of the 2012 Tournament of Roses Parade offered ideas for simple ways to make a soldiers day, and let the armed forces know they are thought of and appreciated. Write little thank you cards [and] send them to the troops, he said, emphasizing that even the smallest gesture speaks volumes to those isolated from friends and family while serving. Find ways to raise a little money, buy a DVD thats an escape. Music that kind of stuff. For more with J.R., tune in to Extreme Makeover: Home Editions Veterans Day special, Rise and Honor Friday at 8 PM on ABC, and watch J.R. and professional partner Karina Smirnoff tear it up on the Dancing with the Stars semi-finals on Monday at 8 PM on ABC. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Contender: 'Extremely Noisy and extremely Close'

Although the honours buzz for this adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's publish-9/11 urban journey continues to be very noisy, Warner Bros. is playing its cards incredibly close: Media will probably view it last but not least major challengers. Whether that's because of worry, confidence or just last-minute tinkering remains to become demonstrated, but producer Scott Rudin appears to possess put together the elements just like a master media chef.Foer's narrative -- about precocious nine-year-old Oskar's look for this is of his dad's dying on the planet Trade Center, and the grandparents' link with the firebombing of Dresden -- indicates exactly the same mixture of whimsy, magical realism, background and moral uplift permeating scribe Eric Roth's Oscar-winning "Forrest Gump" and -nominated "Benjamin Button." Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock provide B.O. insurance, and helmer Stephen Daldry has nicely shown skill with moppets in "Billy Elliot," all-star casts in "The Hrs" and weighty styles in "The Readers."Daldry, Roth, d.p. Chris Menges and editor Claire Simpson -- the final three formerly Oscared -- should figure strongly in year-finish balloting, as will the supporting turn of Max Von Sydow as Oskar's haunted dad. Recognition for that legendary Ingmar Bergman mainstay, nominated only one time before for "Pelle the Conqueror," might be viewed as past due inside a category that's already demonstrated helpful for realizing beloved veterans (Connery, Coburn, Ameche, Palance) instead of an honorary statuette. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Romeo et Juliette

'Romeo et Juliette'An L.A. Opera presentation of the opera in five functions with music by Charles Gounod and libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carre. Carried out by Placido Domingo. Directed by Ian Judge.Romeo - Vittorio Grigolo Juliet - Nino MachaidzeTo all individuals theater enthusiasts who never visit the opera, please be aware. Vittorio Grigolo in the L.A. Opera debut is delivering a luxurious but absolutely sincere Romeo that recalls the youthful John Barrymore. OK, we all know Barrymore's Shakespeare work only from photographs, but Grigolo connects all individuals gloriously over-the-top romantic poses using the remarkable sophistication of the trained dancer within this revival of Gounod's "Romeo et Juliette." To explain Tennessee Williams, who desires realism when you are able have this type of stage miracle? I adore that Grigolo offers a global-class voice, praised in the Met and Covent Garden, and the entire body of the professional soccer player? You will see quibbling from some crix corners that he isn't a genuine French stylist. He's too unreserved a artist. Granted, his Romeo may be better offered if his vocal delivery wasn't quite as full tilt sometimes. The actual great thing about this tenor is based on his mezza voce, that they spins by helping cover their an incredible legato. Who wouldn't go to see his Faust or Werther? Grigolo's real fach is most likely the verismo roles of Puccini, Giordano and Mascagni. But he's youthful, he is able to wait before he taxes his voice with a few of individuals heavier roles. At the chance of transporting in france theyOrItalian language factor too much, it is good to understand that Romeo and Juliet is really a Verona-set story immortalized through the Bard and musicalized here by Gounod, which Grigolo and the Juliet, Nino Machaidze, are Italian performers who bring the storyplot to its native land. And also to introduce another full circle, it is also appropriate that Grigolo's nearly nude love scene within Hollywood owes much to Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 "Romeo and Juliet" for Vital Pictures. Yes, there's much for non-operagoers. Machaidze's steely soprano weaves nicely with Grigolo's fine-grained tenor. She sometimes gives only an approximation from the role's requisite coloratura and her energy flagged within the concoction aria, however in individuals moments with Grigolo, she matches his emotionalism note for note. Placido Domingo requires a very stately grand opera method of this less-than-genius work, and with no dynamism of Grigolo and Machaidze to propel the background music, the performance switches to automatic pilot whenever the supporting gamers take stage. John Gunter's iron-scaffold sets recalls that old Penn Station in director Ian Judge's clever update towards the 1800s. Chorus performers putting on ring skirts ought to be advised walking up and lower open stairs without subjecting their under garments, but otherwise, his direction produces beautiful stage pictures. Erectile dysfunction Douglas choreographs some thrilling fights, and Judge's decision to possess Romeo kill Tybalt (Alexey Sayapin) having a gun as opposed to a knife fits directly into Grigolo's grand interpretation. This Romeo hates just like large because he loves.Sets, John Gunter, costumes, Tim Goodchild lighting, Nigel Levings choreography, Cat McNamee fight choreography, Erectile dysfunction Douglas. Opened up, examined November. 6, 2011. Running time: 3 Hrs, 15 MIN.With: Museop Kim, Vitalij Kowaljow, Vladimir Chernov, Alexey Sayapin, Philip Cokorinos, Renee Rapier, Ronnita Nicole Burns, Michael Dean, Ben Bliss, Daniel Remedy, Erik Anstine. Contact Robert Hofler at bob.hofler@variety.com

Cheers & Jeers: Dexter's Mos Valuable Player

Mos Def Cheers to Mos for his killer guest switch on Dexter. Want more Cheers & Jeers? Sign up for TV Guide Magazine now! SPOILER ALERT: STOP Reading through If You Have Not SEEN LAST NIGHT'S EPISODE! As Brother Mike, a cool criminal who become a huge hit towards the better angels of Dex's character, the rapper-switched-actor (formerly referred to as Mos Def) hit all of the right beats. Bad he gave in towards the gunshot wounds he experienced in last week's episode, but his deathbed scene - by which he advised Michael C. Hall's serial-killer slayer to locate forgiveness in the heart - was among this season's most effective moments. Obviously, this being Dexter, Brother Mike is probably not gone permanently - he could return like a ghost. Possibly he'll function as the angel on Dexter's shoulder, advocating him to smite the demon inside. Can One have an "Amen!"? What have you think about Mos on Dexter? Sign up for TV Guide Magazine now!

'Tower Heist' Director Brett Ratner Issues Apology for Gay Slur

Tower Heist director Brett Ratner is known for his candid remarks on everything from his sexual experiences with Olivia Munn to his belief that some fans of the X-Men franchise considered him the "antichrist." But the filmmaker went too far according to many when he said, "Rehearsal is for fags," during a screening of his film on Friday.our editor recommendsTower Heist: Film Review'Tower Heist' Director Brett Ratner Apologizes for Epilepsy Joke in Movie's Trailer (Video)Brett Ratner and Olivia Munn in Strange Feud Over X-Rated Claim On Monday, Ratner released a statement saying, "I apologize for any offense my remarks caused. It was a dumb and outdated way of expressing myself. Everyone who knows me knows that I don't have a prejudiced bone in my body. But as a storyteller I should have been much more thoughtful about the power of language and my choice of words." PHOTOS: 'Ben Stiller Show' Alumni: Where Are They Now? Ratner was doing a Q&A session at the Arclight Hollywood after introducing the film to the audience. An audience member asked what rehearsals were like for the film, which stars Eddie Murphy, Ben Stiller and Casey Affleck. It was then that Ratner responded, "Rehearsal? What's that? Rehearsal's for fags. Rehearsal. Not much. A lot of prep, preparation, complex action sequences, visual effects." Q&A: Eddie Murphy Will 'Deliver' as Oscars Host, Say Show Producers GLAAD quickly condemned the statement, and is now asking for more of a statement from Ratner. VIDEO: 'Tower Heist' Director Brett Ratner Apologizes for Epilepsy Joke in Movie's Trailer "This apology is a good start, but we're working with Ratner's people for more action, to clearly send a message to Hollywood that the anti-gay slurs used by bullies and bigots have no place in the world of entertainment, or anywhere else," GLAAD wrote in a statement. Ratner's next gig will be producing the 2012 Academy Awards, which will be hosted by Tower Heist star Eddie Murphy. Related Topics Brett Ratner Eddie Murphy Tower Heist

Occupy Wall Street Boosts 'Margin Call' in Oscar Race

The 84th Oscars are nearly four several weeks away, but that hasn't stopped hands on handicappers from culling the herd, anointing early front-runners such as the Descendants, The Artist and Night time in Paris while arranging place holders for such large-ticket challengers as War Equine and Very Noisy and extremely Close that haven't yet tested. Not too fast, though: Works out there's still room for any surprise or two.our editor recommends'Margin Call' Trailer: Returning to the economical Collapse (Video)'Margin Call' Director: 'We like a Country Are Acting Very Greedy Right Now' (Berlin)SUNDANCE REVIEW: 'Margin Call' Never Evolves a feeling of Emergency Among Economic Crisis Enter Margin Call. When it comes to its honours potential, the film, designed for just $3.5 million, hadn't been in the radar. But that transformed once Kerbside Points of interest launched it March. 21 -- in theaters so that as a VOD offering on cable, Amazon . com and iTunes. Written and directed beginning with-timer J.C. Chandor, the boy of the stockbroker, the film delivers an extensive and bracing take a look at a significant investment bank around the edge of collapse. Zachary Quinto, who assisted develop and convey Margin Call, plays an analyst, who in the beginning stares at his screen with the feel of a disbelieving Titanic crewmember after recognizing the iceberg. As his discovery -- the firm may go under whether it doesn't rapidly sell off its toxic mortgage investments -- works its in place the chain of command, the film introduces Paul Bettany like a cynical supervisor, Kevin Spacey like a conflicted manager, Demi Moore like a tense risk management professional, and, helicoptering in just like a deus-ex-master-of-the-world, company chief Jeremy Irons, who provides juicy pronouncements like "The background music is going to stop and that we are holding the finest pile of odiferous excrement within the good reputation for capitalism." PHOTOS: Artists Who Visited Occupy Wall Street Top experts rushed to provide praise. "Margin Call is among the most powerful American films of the season and simply the very best Wall Street movie available,Inch David Denby from the NYer declared. Around the eve of their release, the film was nominated for any Gotham Award for the best ensemble. It might now create a legitimate bid for that Screen Stars Guild's ensemble prize, ought to be a significant player in the Spirit Honours, and Oscar-smart, could estimate the initial script and supporting actor contests, since, as NY magazine's David Edelstein authored, "Spacey provides a major performance, his very best in a long time.Inch The irony is the fact that Margin Call continues to be hiding in plain sight all along. In The month of january, at its world premiere in the Sundance Film Festival, it received mixed reviews, but Lionsgate/Kerbside rapidly scooped up for around $a million. "It wasn't seen as an prestige release, but we actually loved it," states Kerbside co-leader Howard Cohen. The very first omen that others might agree came once the film was selected to spread out NY's New Company directors/New Films in March, drawing an passionate assessment in the NY Occasions' A.O. Scott. "Which's when everybody all of a sudden awoke and stated, 'This is really a major film,' " Cohen adds. PHOTOS: Scene at Occupy La Kerbside ongoing to experience its cards near to the vest. Because it was planning for a synchronised VOD and theatrical release, which may have disqualified the film for Oscar consideration because qualified films must first come in theaters, the distributor silently reserved a being approved run within the San Fernando Valley community of West Hillsides the 2009 fall. Although nobody might have predicted it, the zeitgeist then conspired to provide Margin Call extra currency. Using the Occupy Wall Street protests, which started in mid-September, focusing on banks behind the 2008 fiscal crisis, the film acquired real topicality. Furthermore, while marketing the film, Quinto grabbed as soon as to be released openly as gay having a simple, eloquent statement he have been moved through the suicide of 14-year-old Jamey Rodemeyer, a victim of bullying, to reside their own existence more freely. That only offered to underscore his growing importance and stature inside the industry. Kerbside didn't come with an honours strategy in position for that film, but the organization has become creating plans, determining on things like budgeting and getting inside a consultant. "We weren't utilizing an honours technique to assist the movie conduct business, however that people've seen the reception, you want to maximize its honours potential," states Cohen. Quite simply, don't sell Margin Call's honours stock short. Unpredicted Records CAN Change OSCAR: Every year, a couple of films fly individually distinct simply to emerge to challenge the the usual understanding Letters from Iwo Jima (2006): When Clint Eastwood's Flags in our Fathers faltered, Warners moved his companion film to December.It snapped up four nominations. The Blind Side (2009): Most commentators ignored the film's Oscar chances, departing them back early lists. The November release obtained victory for Sandra Bullock. Crazy Heart (2009): Fox Searchlight dropped the nation-designed movie in to the 2009 race in the last second, also it introduced Shaun Bridges a best actor statuette. Related Subjects Sundance Film Festival Occupy

From Abbott and Costello to Tina Fey and Amy Poehler: 13 Great Movie Odd Couples

Based on TMZ, actor Leonard Stone, most widely known for playing Purple Beauregarde's father within the 1971 film 'Willy Wonka and also the Chocolate Factory,' died on Wednesday following a bout with cancer. Although he starred within the classic children's movie, nearly all Stone's career happened on television, with stints on shows for example 'M*A*S*H' and 'L.A. Law.' Stone's last role is at the 2006 made-for-TV movie, 'Surrender, Dorothy.' However, the scene you will probably remember him for may be the one out of 'Willy Wonka,' where his daughter Purple becomes a blueberry. [via TMZ] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

'Tower' trying to find B.O. energy

Puss in Boots will most likely take second devote the U.S. B.O. Appealing to several demos, Universals PG-13 rated Tower Heist is predicted to bow between $25 million and $Thirty Dollars million. Some comedies, "Tower Heist" and "A Very Harold & Kumar 3d Christmas," use brighten the climate at exactly what is a fairly glum boxoffice climate in recent days.Universal's PG-13 ensemble laffer "Tower Heist" is predicted to bow between $25 million and $Thirty Dollars million through Sunday, while New Line's third "Harold & Kumar" installment, distribbed by Warner Bros., should land inside the high-teens, according to B.O. bloggers.Both wide releases will have to combat a present moviegoing slump, though "Tower Heist" has the advantage of appealing to a bigger aud. "Harold & Kumar" may find it hard to use beyond its core under-25 male demo.Steven Spielberg's "The Adventures of Tintin: The Important Thing in the Unicorn" should still dominate overseas. Last weekend, the 3 dimensional motion-capture pic first demonstrated in 19 worldwide areas, nearly two several days before its U.S. bow on 12 ,. 21, getting an outstanding $56.6 000 0000 via distribs The brand new the new sony and Vital. Pic develops a couple of days ago to Russia.Overseas auds also provide supported Componen-DreamWorks Animation's "Puss in Boots," which bowed last weekend with $17.2 million. In your area, the toon should hold adequate for second place, getting a soph-sesh take forecasted around $22 million, or possibly a 35% weekend-to-weekend drop.The weekend's players won't match last year's record November kickoff set by new records "Megamind," "DeadlineInch and "For Colored Women."U mentioned monitoring for "Tower Heist" resembles "Deadline,Inch which opened up track of $32.7 million, even though current recession within the turnstiles has tempered anticipation."Tower Heist," which launches today at 3,367 locations, made mind lines early lately when U introduced it could increase the risk for film available utilizing a limited premium video-on-demand platform just 72 hours after its theatrical bow. The studio tabled this program after exhib Cinemark threatened to boycott the pic.Allotted inside a reported $85 million, "Tower Heist" can also be beginning a couple of days ago in 25 overseas areas, including Germany, The nation as well as the U.K."Harold & Kumar" cost substantially under "Tower," getting a financial budget inside the low-$30 millions. Nevertheless the R-rated laffer is a lot more from the wildcard, since under-25 filmgoers are actually AWOL from plexes lately."We're roughly 'Kick-Ass' and 'Jackass,' " quipped Warner Bros. domestic distribution chief Serta Fellman.A year ago, Par's "Jackass 3dInch acquired the finest-ever October bow ($50.4 million), though that was assigned lately by another youthful-skewing franchise offering, "Paranormal Activity 3," with $52.6 000 0000. Lionsgate's "Kick-Ass" bowed at $19.8 million last April.Like "Jackass 3d,Inch New Line's latest "Harold & Kumar" pic may require the stoner franchise's recognition among youthful males. Warner is delivering the film at 2,875 locations, with 2,943 3d screens and roughly 1,000 evening time showtimes on Thursday.In limited release, Anchor Bay bows Sundance pickup "The Boy of Nobody,Inch toplining Channing Tatum and Al Pacino, at 10 U.S. playdates.Sony's "Anonymous," which opened up up last weekend with a respectable $3,856 per-screen average from 265 locations, increases to 513, because the Weinstein Co. is re-delivering Holocaust drama "Sarah's Key" at 318 theaters. Pic first opened up on This summer time 22, with only north of $7 million in your area. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

Ricki Lake Takes Add Dwts

First Launched: November 1, 2011 10:12 AM EDT Credit: Access Hollywood Caption Ricki Lake and partner Derek Hough speak with Access Hollywood on October 31, 2011LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Ricki Lake again mentioned the most effective perfect Dwts, her fifth first-place finish up to now this season. Nancy Sophistication showed up in last placed on Mondays Halloween-designed episode. Another celebrity will probably be overlooked throughout Tuesdays installment in the hit ABC show. All the six participants completed two dances Monday: One utilizing their professional partners, together with a team dance with two other couples. They-dance score was placed on each couple inside the group. Despite a rib injuries, Lake impressed with both programs. She completed two paso dobles: One with partner Derek Hough and also the other along with her team that incorporated soccer champion Hope Solo and reality star Make the most of Kardashian. Judge Bruno Tonioli known towards the audience routine as effective, moving, and dramatic and referred to as Ponds dance along with her partner another incredible performance. She acquired 27 points on her behalf dance with Hough and 26 points for your team routine for just about any total of 53 from 60. Kardashian finished in second place with 51 points, submiting a tango for the Addams Family theme song that particular judge referred to as your better dance up to now. Following a show, he mentioned his ideas are along with his sister Kim, who declared divorce Monday after ten days of marriage to basketball player Kris Humphries. Were here to assist her, whatever she does, Kardashian mentioned. Solo acquired 50 points in many, ideal for third place. Actor and Iraq veteran J.R. Martinez, which has tied Lake for to start with previously days and held the most effective place when shehasnt, completed two tangos Monday. He acquired 25 points for his routine with professional partner Karina Smirnoff, and also the other 23 points for his group dance with Sophistication and actor David Arquette. Judge Len Goodman referred to as Martinezs first tango poor and belittled the crowd routine. All of the individual performances will be a disaster, he mentioned. Martinez completed with 48 points, one a lot better than Arquette. Sophistication, who used a red-colored-colored hairpiece, red-colored-colored lashes together with an attractive, fringed dress, not successful to ignite along with her jive. This wasnt an excellent dance to suit your needs, Goodman mentioned. It absolutely was a disappointment personally. Moments later, the tv personality defended her routine, saying, I dont think our jive was that bad. She acquired 21 points with this, giving her 44 from 60 for your evening. Idol idol judges scores are combined with viewer votes to discover which celebrity contestant is ousted each week. Chaz Bono, Carson Kressley, Chynna Phillips, Kristin Cavallari, Elisabetta Canalis and Metta World Peace, formerly known to as Ron Artest, are actually removed this season. Tuesdays results show may also be set to include a performance by Attacking Youthful Boys. Copyright 2011 with the Connected Press. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Dwts Episode Recap: Monday, March. 31, 2011

Dancing while using Stars' top 6 proceed and take stage on Halloween for a lot of spooky programs and team dances. Who was simply frighteningly good? Who was simply just frightening? And did Make the most of give his family the good thing today? Uncover below!To start with, is Brooke pointing Elvira or Jum Michele? I'm unsure which might be superior. Anyhow, we've got individual and team dances on deck. Team dance scores is going to be incorporated to individual scores.David Arquette and Kym Manley: cha-chaThey have "Abracadabra," so that they are undertaking a combo of Dracula together with a magician. David makes Todd Karr, an illusionist to show some techniques. And possibly the best way to shake his sides too? The routine starts off somewhat slow, but that could be because I possibly could not tear my eyes from Kym's lacey one-piece that started growing fringe. Illusion, see? David's jobs are decent which he features a nice frame in hold, but he'll log off pace when they're from hold. His stylish action is tolerable, there's however no miracle in it (no pun intended). The whole factor overall may use more oomph and polish. Len states he's switched themselves in to a dancer, but thinks he needs more rhythm. Bruno states he's a specialist at turning techniques before Barbara Ann the kitty cat tries to cut him off. "Barbara Ann, you naughty little pussy[cat]," he notifies her. Barbara Ann loves his improvement.Score: 24J.R. Martinez and Karina Smirnoff: tango"If you create a house, you build the f------ foundation," Karina yells at J.R. in rehearsals. But that's all we must say relating to this. They're doing Ghostbusters, with J.R. doing the busting, so naturally Karina dresses as being a duster. Yeah, I'm unsure what's happening either, however i am confident people Cirque du Soleil people placed on people nude, smartly covered body suits, no? Anyway, this is a great performance, while not a great one, especially from someone like J.R. It's a tad unrefined, rushed which he's lost of sync a few occasions. Guess he didn't build that f------ foundation. Bruno states he lost timing a few occasions. Barbara Ann thinks they taken a bad tone. Len calls it poor regarding the he needs from J.R.Score: 25Nancy Sophistication and Tristan MacManus: jiveNancy states she knows the idol idol judges will probably be waiting for her to ruin. Oh, how good you understand them. They're dancing to "The Demon Went Lower to Georgia." Use that what you need to. Nancy's got the 'tude lower (surprise!), but her jobs are much, way off. Her jives and films abound, and Tristan is, like, five paces before her. Speaking about, Tristan comprises a hot Irish demon. Barbara Ann states she'd a not-so excellent day. Len states the jive is not a great dance on her behalf. Bruno loves the spirit, but confirms her work was off.Score: 21Rob Kardashian and Cheryl Burke: tangoNo mention of the probably the most Expected News Ever. They have The Addams Family. "It's like the Kardashian family," Make the most of states. "I don't think they're creepy, but they're kooky." Only because it starts getting a "K," right? Dare I believe that this really is really the very best dance in the evening up to now - yes, better yet than J.R.'s Rob's form is nearly perfect. The job is sharp, precise, and he's full of controlled aggression. Plus, he's oddly yanking off that pencil mustache. Rather than Kris and Bruce, that are undoubtedly exceeding Kim's prenup nowadays, Kourtney, Scott and Mason are in your home tonight to make certain no less than two Kardashians are saved to screen every week. Len states Make the most of did a great job. Bruno states he's never been so macho as well as in charge. Barbara Ann states it's his best dance up to now. #ThingsLongerThanKimsMarriage? Rob's Dancing run. Score: 25 Ricki Lake and Derek Hough: paso dobleRicki's ribs hurt, so she visits the doctor. She's an inflamed nerve as well as the doc would normally prescribe times of relaxation. Alas, Ricki can't do that, so she must suck up. So, uh, can be a corset the most effective factor to use by getting an inflamed rib? Ricki sure doesn't try searching in discomfort. Rob's reign is short-were living: This really is really the very best dance up to now. She's full of attack, has gorgeous lines, extensions, and work. It's definately not the most effective paso Derek's done, but it's certainly the highlight in the evening. Bruno calls it a blizzard of passion and fear. Barbara Ann loves her shaping, but alerts her of rising shoulders. Len, ditto round the shapes. Then he starts screaming about whipping or some such quite unquestionably. Easy, Bruno aspirant. "In my opinion you just needed 2 decades from him," Tom quips.Score: 27Hope Solo and Maksim Chmerkovskiy: sambaMaks brings Teddy straight into help Hope. As they features a bum feet. And also, since he can't deal with her any more too? This frees him around be WereMaks to acquire her to the Halloween spirit and complain about Hope getting a far greater time with Teddy in comparison to him. Ah, how a storyboarding went now. Furthermore a howl? Maks wearing a tuxedo - cumberbund incorporated - without any shirt. Maybe Teddy should sub in frequently. Hope doesn't look completely awkward a minimum of. She's still slightly awkward, but she's more light on her behalf account foot and is not lumbering around the whole time. Having less samba comes, while difficult, is glaring, and there's hardly any "party" with this party dance. Barbara Ann states it's a lot better than their Toy Story dance. Len states Hope coped well while using difficulty. Hey now, isn't that the "A" for effort critique, Maks? Bruno states she was dancing as if her existence depended about it. So no live mention whatsoever of last week's kerfuffle now Len goes easy round the critique? Hmm...Score: 24Team DancesTeam Tango: J.R. and Karina, David and Kym, and Nancy and TristanThey're choosing for any crazy asylum theme, completely lower to straightjackets. Nancy and Tristan start the solos off super progressively before leading into David and Kym. It had been David's finest-scoring individual dance, but he's totally stiff here for reasons uknown. J.R. and Karina, clearly, close having a couple of air-humping and classy-thrusting. Didn't understand that was part of the tango. The crowd formation is slightly better, but overall, this is often a hot mess. Len loves the crowd section, nevertheless the individual performances were problems. Bruno confirms because everyone made mistakes. Barbara Ann verifies.Score: 23Team Paso Doble: Ricki and Derek, Make the most of and Cheryl, Hope and MaksMaks doesn't recruit Teddy for help here, but possibly he must have given how hemanhandles and tossesHope aside, and walks from rehearsals. Derek the Golden Boy, clearly, procedures in to help her. And so the message throughout your day is: Imagine how Hope could've finished with another partner. They're dancing to "Bring Me to Existence." I am sorry, can it be 2003? Why show passionate relating to this song? Make the most of and Cheryl kick things off nicely after which it pass the baton that you should and Maks. Hope stays about 10-seconds sitting on the floor sooner or later. your work there, Maks. Ricki and Derek pack a effective punch to seal just before the audience formation. They in some manner stay in sync while using cape-flinging, which will score, like, 8 points alone. The routine is a lot more exciting, dramatic and elaborate. Bruno loves that everybody went with this. Barbara Ann hearts it too. Len thinks their individual parts were fantastic.Score: 26That means Ricki and Derek top the best option board getting a 53, while Nancy and Tristan are last getting a 44.Whoever else think? Perhaps you have enjoy Halloween Week? Could it happen to be a trick or possibly a goody? Was Team Paso a lot better than Team Tango? Perhaps you have enjoy David's miracle techniques? Did WereMaks scare you? Should Teddy replace Maks permanently as Hope's partner? Does Tristan produce a handsome demon? Did Make the most of redeem the Kardashian family title (for today anyway)? Who you think will leave tomorrow? show less