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‘Hollywood is a Hellish Landscape’

Produced by Miramax and Outerbanks Entertainment, ‘The Exorcism’ will be released in India by PVR Pictures…reports Akshay Acharya

Actor-director-writer Joshua John Miller has described Hollywood as a “hellish landscape.”

Reflecting on his past experiences, he recalled working with a studio head many years ago who would “torture” him and his co-writer daily.

Joshua, who is gearing up for his upcoming horror film ‘The Exorcism’, spoke with IANS and shared that such toxicity can really harm an artist and their creative process. He emphasised on teaming up with people who elevate the creative process instead of making it a living hell.

The director told: “Making a film in Hollywood is an incredibly hellish landscape. I have had a very bad experience with the studio system of Hollywood prior to making this film (‘The Exorcism’). My co-writer and I from the prior project toiled through the experience, and there was this very demonic person, the head of the studio, who really tortured us.”

He said that each day, the studio head would send them threatening letters, calls, and intimidating acts.

“I really thought I was living in a horror movie. I would say, I saw the devil in that person, as it happened many years ago. As a creative person, you have a vision, and you have to surround yourself with people who share that vision and enhance your creative process,” he continued.

Joshua also said that a movie has “many lives” during the course of its making.

The director told: “What I mean by that is that a movie goes through a different set of eyes and perspectives during the course of its making. It starts with the writer and how they envision the story, then comes the director, who streamlines the narrative with their casting choices and their directorial choices.”

He added, “The creative experts decide on the look and feel of the movie, the editor views the story through a different lens and stitches it together, a music composer shapes the film musically. Every person involved in the movie-making process views the film differently each time because a new edit always comes with a new context.”

Produced by Miramax and Outerbanks Entertainment, ‘The Exorcism’ will be released in India by PVR Pictures.

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Historic Nominations: ‘Shogun’ and ‘The Bear’ Dominate Emmys

‘Shogun’ leads the pack with a total of 25 nominations (including limited series). It also scored first-time acting nominations for stars Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai…reports Asian Lite News

The Television Academy has announced nominations for the upcoming 76th edition of the Primetime Emmy Awards.

The list of nominations includes historic choices and several critically acclaimed titles that had been overdue for recognition, reports ‘Variety’.

‘Shogun’ leads the pack with a total of 25 nominations (including limited series). It also scored first-time acting nominations for stars Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai.

As per ‘Variety’, the television network FX landed 93 nominations altogether — helped also by the record-breaking 23 nominations (the most in Emmy history) for its comedy series ‘The Bear’.

‘The Bear’ was already an Emmy superstar, having landed 10 wins in 2023 — making it the most Emmys won by a series in its first season. This time, ‘The Bear’ stars Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Lionel Boyce and Liza Colon-Zayas all received acting nods.

FX’s surge made it the second-most nominated network this year, behind only Netflix (107). And that put it above HBO and Max (91), which wasn’t one of the top two networks for the first time in multiple decades.

“This one really caught us by surprise and in the best possible way,” said FX chief John Landgraf. “You just feel this overwhelming sense of pride for the artists for the nominees,” he added.

Besides ‘Shogun’ and ‘The Bear’, FX pulled off a comedy series nomination for ‘Reservation Dogs’, something that fans and TV critics had been pushing for years. In its third season, ‘Only Murders in the Building’ finally landed an acting nomination for star Selena Gomez.

The most-nominated limited/anthology series this year was HBO’s ‘True Detective: Night Country’, with 19. NBC’s ‘Saturday Night Live’ was the most-recognised broadcast entry, with 17 nominations.

Other outlets having a landmark year included Apple TV+, which scored 70 nominations — thanks to a surging ‘The Morning Show’ (16 nominations), comedy newcomer ‘Palm Royale’ and the limited entry ‘Lessons in Chemistry’.

The 76th Emmy Awards will air live on September 15. Indian audiences can stream the award ceremony on Lionsgate Play.

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‘Inside Out 2’ Becomes Pixar’s Highest-Grossing Film

The sequel quickly exceeded the overall gross of the original Inside Out, which made $859 million worldwide in 2015…reports Asian Lite News

Nearly a month after its release on Friday, June 14, ‘Inside Out 2’ has surpassed Incredibles 2 in revenue to become the highest-grossing movie in Pixar’s history.

As reported by Variety, Inside Out 2 has earned $1.25 billion globally, surpassing Incredibles 2’s $1.24 billion record. This achievement makes it the fourth highest-grossing animated movie ever, trailing only Frozen ($1.29 billion), The Super Mario Bros. Movie ($1.36 billion), and Frozen II ($1.45 billion).

The sequel quickly exceeded the overall gross of the original Inside Out, which made $859 million worldwide in 2015.

The film’s success was anticipated, as The Walt Disney Company had earlier announced that ‘Inside Out 2’ became the fastest animated film to reach $1 billion at the global box office, achieving this milestone in less than three weeks after its release.

‘Inside Out 2’ is now one of only 11 animated films to have crossed the $1 billion mark. It is also the first movie to achieve this feat since July 2023’s ‘Barbie.’

The sequel follows 13-year-old Riley as she experiences new emotions during puberty and prepares for high school. Directed by Kelsey Mann, the film introduces new emotions like Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, Ennui, and Nostalgia, in addition to the original five: Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust.

Amy Poehler, who voices Joy, told PEOPLE that the first film was naturally set up for a sequel.

“At the very end of the original, Joy has that great moment where she’s like, ‘Finally, everything the way it’s supposed to be.’ Then we see that big puberty button, ‘Should we press this?’ We do press it in the second movie,” Poehler said in September 2022.

She had been advocating for a sequel for years.

“I’ve been bugging Pete Docter [the Chief Creative Officer of studio Pixar] and the team and just saying, ‘When are you guys going to make another one? When’s that happening?’ When they told me their idea of how to approach the second one, I thought it was just genius,” she told PEOPLE in June.

Inside Out 2 is now playing in theatres. (ANI)

ALSO READ-‘Shrek 5’ Announced for July 2026 Release

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‘Shrek 5’ Announced for July 2026 Release

Eddie Murphy inadvertently revealed in June that he had already started recording his lines for the film and hinted at a spinoff centred around his character, Donkey, according to Variety…reports Asian Lite News

DreamWorks Animation has officially announced the production of ‘Shrek 5,’ slated for release on July 1, 2026, marking the return of original stars Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz to their iconic roles.

Directed by Walt Dohrn, known for his contributions to the ‘Shrek’ universe, including ‘Shrek 2’ and ‘Shrek the Third,’ and produced by Gina Shay and Chris Meledandri, ‘Shrek 5’ promises to continue the beloved saga that began with the 2001 original, according to Variety.

This installment is expected to provide a fitting continuation and conclusion to the series.

The announcement was shared at DreamWorks Animation’s official X handle.

Eddie Murphy inadvertently revealed in June that he had already started recording his lines for the film and hinted at a spinoff centred around his character, Donkey, according to Variety.

“We started doing [‘Shrek 5’] months ago,” Murphy mentioned, adding, “I did this. I recorded the first act, and we’ll be doing it this year, we’ll finish it up. ‘Shrek’ is coming out and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie.”

The ‘Shrek’ franchise, which began as a surprising box office success in 2001, has since become a cultural phenomenon, earning accolades including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature for its inaugural film.

With subsequent installments like ‘Shrek 2,’ which reportedly grossed nearly USD 1 billion worldwide, the series has remained a staple of animated entertainment.

Chris Meledandri, overseeing the franchise’s revival at Universal Pictures, emphasised the importance of retaining the original voice cast, which he described as integral to the charm and success of the series.

“The challenge for us has been to find something that really does feel like it’s not simply yet another film in a series of sequels,” Meledandri remarked in an interview, according to Variety.

The announcement of ‘Shrek 5’ comes amidst the continued popularity of the franchise’s spinoff, ‘Puss in Boots,’ with recent entries like ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ enjoying both critical acclaim and box office success.

Reportedly, negotiations are currently underway to finalise deals with the returning cast members, ensuring that fans can look forward to the familiar voices of Myers, Murphy, and Diaz bringing their beloved characters back to life once again. (ANI)

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Thriller Series ‘The Tourist’ Set for Indian Adaptation

The second season of the show, which launched earlier this year, sees the characters relocate to Ireland as the mystery deepens…reports Asian Lite News

Hollywood star Jamie Dornan-starrer thriller television series “The Tourist” is all set to get an Indian adaptation.

Entertainment company Banijay Asia has signed a deal with distributor All3Media International, acquiring the rights to create a local adaptation, reports variety.com.

Written by Harry and Jack Williams, “The Tourist” has Dornan playing a man who wakes up in Australia with amnesia after a near-fatal car crash.

“Seeking answers, he encounters a local woman who remembers him and volunteers to help him rediscover his identity,” the logline said.

The logline further read: “What few clues he can find hint that he has a dark past from which he must escape before it catches up with him.”

The second season of the show, which launched earlier this year, sees the characters relocate to Ireland as the mystery deepens.

The original series was produced by Two Brothers Pictures and Highview Productions.

Mrinalini Jain, group chief development officer for Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India, said: “‘The Tourist’ offers a unique blend of mystery and suspense that we believe will resonate deeply with our viewers. We are ecstatic to bring an adaptation of such a gripping and internationally celebrated series to Indian audiences.”

“Collaborating with All3Media International allows us to maintain the high standards set by the original while infusing it with a distinct Indian touch.”

Sabrina Duguet, EVP for Asia Pacific at All3Media International, added: “‘The Tourist’ has been a phenomenal success globally, and we are delighted to see it being adapted for the Indian market.”

“Banijay Asia has an impressive track record of creating high-quality local adaptations, and we are confident that they will deliver an exceptional version of this globally loved thriller. We look forward to seeing how the story will be reimagined for Indian viewers.”

Banijay Asia has previously adapted shows including “The Night Manager,” “Call My Agent” and “The Trial”.

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Will Reeve to Make Cameo in James Gunn’s ‘Superman’

Reeve’s father, Christopher, is indelibly linked to the Superman franchise, having become the definitive portrayal of the iconic superhero for an entire generation…reports Asian Lite News

Filmmaker and DC head honcho James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ is set to feature Will Reeve, the son of the late Superman star Christopher Reeve, in a cameo role.

The production is currently in motion in Cleveland, reports ‘Deadline’.

While representatives for Warner Bros. and DC could not be reached for comment, the younger Reeve will reportedly be playing a TV reporter, which is fitting given his real-world work as a correspondent for ABC News.

Reeve’s father, Christopher, is indelibly linked to the Superman franchise, having become the definitive portrayal of the iconic superhero for an entire generation.

According to Deadline, his relationship with the franchise began in 1978, when he was cast as the titular character in Richard Donner’s ‘Superman: The Movie’. He went on to don the cape in three sequels between 1980 and 1987, ‘Superman II’, ‘Superman III’, and ‘Superman IV: The Quest for Peace’.

The elder Reeve’s story is at the heart of ‘Superman: The Christopher Reeve Story’, a documentary directed by Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui, which premiered to critical acclaim at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. It will be released in select US theatres via DC Studios and Fathom Events on September 21, with an encore presentation on Christopher Reeve’s birthday on September 25.

The documentary chronicles Reeve’s astonishing rise from unknown actor to iconic movie star, shows how his definitive portrayal of Clark Kent/Superman set the benchmark for the superhero cinematic universes that dominate cinema today, and examines the near-fatal horse-riding accident that left him paralysed from the neck down in 1995, as well as his later work as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care.

Gunn is directing from his own script, which draws on characters created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Peter Safran produces the movie, which is slated for release on July 11, 2025.

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HBO Renews ‘House of the Dragon’ for Another Season

Based on author Martin’s “Game of Thrones” book “Fire & Blood,” “House of the Dragon” follows the Targaryen dynasty in the fictional continent of Westeros…reports Asian Lite News

Ahead of the premiere of the second season of ‘House of the Dragon’, HBO has greenlit the third part.

The network has ordered another season of the Game of Thrones prequel series, though isn’t specifying how many episodes, The Hollywood Reporter stated. Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, praised co-creators George R.R. Martin and Ryan Condal while announcing the pickup.

“George, Ryan, and the rest of our incredible executive producers, cast, and crew, have reached new heights with the phenomenal second season of House of the Dragon,” she said. “We are in awe of the dragon-sized effort the entire team has put into the creation of a spectacular season two, with a scope and scale that is only rivaled by its heart. We could not be more thrilled to continue the story of House Targaryen and watch this team burn bright again for season three.”

Based on author Martin’s “Game of Thrones” book “Fire & Blood,” “House of the Dragon” follows the Targaryen dynasty in the fictional continent of Westeros. It takes place nearly 200 years before the events of “Game of Thrones” and about 100 years after the Targaryens united the Seven Kingdoms. (ANI)

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New Cast Joins ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Prequel

The official synopsis of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ teases an epic tale set a century before the events of Game of Thrones. It follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, portrayed by Peter Claffey, and his loyal squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell)…reports Asian Lite News

The highly anticipated ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel series, ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,’ has officially commenced filming in Belfast, Northern Ireland, marking a return to the iconic production hub of its predecessor. Accompanying the start of filming of the HBO series a first-look photo featuring Peter Claffey in the character of Ser Duncan the Tall was unveiled on the production’s official Instagram handle.

The image offers fans a glimpse into the world of Westeros before the events chronicled in ‘Game of Thrones’. Directed by Sarah Adina Smith, known for her work on ‘Lessons In Chemistry,’ and Owen Harris of ‘Black Mirror’ fame, the series has also added a stellar cast to its roster.
New additions include Finn Bennett as Aerion Targaryen, Bertie Carvel as Baelor Targaryen, Tanzyn Crawford as Tanselle, Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Baratheon, and Sam Spruell as Maekar Targaryen, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The official synopsis of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ teases an epic tale set a century before the events of Game of Thrones. It follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, portrayed by Peter Claffey, and his loyal squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell).

Amidst the backdrop of a Westeros still under the rule of House Targaryen, the series promises thrilling encounters and the exploration of powerful destinies. Creators George R.R. Martin and Ira Parker are at the helm of the project, bringing their vision to life with a narrative that delves into the lore and legends of Westeros. The filming location in Belfast signifies a return to the roots of the ‘Game of Thrones’ franchise, echoing the grandeur and cinematic appeal that captured audiences worldwide. (ANI)

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Lucas Honoured with Honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes

Coppola continued by saying: “And with that began an association that has lasted a lifetime. And he went on and on, making film history, story history, business history, and now history in France.”…reports Asian Lite News

George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola reflected on their lifelong bond as the ‘Godfather’ director, who just presented ‘Megalopolis’ at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, feted the ‘Star Wars’ visionary with the honorary Palme d’Or on Saturday night, reports ‘Variety’.

Before Lucas received the award, he was greeted in the theatre by a several-minute standing ovation, a Cannes expression of appreciation, during which he gave the crowd a thumbs-up and got a little teary-eyed, ‘Variety’ notes.

When Coppola came on stage, the two embraced and exchanged some private remarks.

In his speech, Coppola recalled his first meeting with Lucas, who shadowed him on the set of his film ‘Finian’s Rainbow’ in 1968.

The auteur recalled those days and said: “Pleased to have someone in my own generation, I suggested he come every day, but only on one condition: That he come up with a brilliant suggestion every day, which he consistently did.”

Coppola continued by saying: “And with that began an association that has lasted a lifetime. And he went on and on, making film history, story history, business history, and now history in France.”

He also mentioned, according to ‘Variety’, that when Lucas was rejected by the owners of the ‘Flash Gordon’ comic strip when he pitched a film adaptation, “he looked at me and he said, ‘Well, I’ll make my own movie, I’ll call it ‘Star Battles’ or ‘Star Wars’ or something.’ And so he did, and in the process risked everything he had to make it.”

Accepting the award, Lucas said, “I can’t thank all of you enough because I’m just a kid that grew up in a vineyard in Modesto, California, who makes movies in San Francisco with Francis.”

Looking back on his nearly 60 years in the film industry, Lucas added that “it’s definitely a different world” now.

Lucas and Coppola, to quote ‘Variety’, “held hands as they walked across the stage to take photos together with the award, supporting each other in more ways than one.”

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Avengers bond

Hemsworth also opened up about his regret on ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’…reports Asian Lite News

Hollywood stars Chris Hemsworth and Robert Downey Jr are celebrating their ‘Avenger’ co-star Jeremy Renner’s recovery after his 2023 fatal snow plow accident.

Hemsworth and Downey Jr said in a new interview that the crew is still in contact with each other via a group text chain, which is how they initially found out about Renner’s accident.

“He sent us all a sort of a doped out, hospital, beat-up image and said, ‘All good, guys.’ And then I didn’t hear from him for a while as he was in the thick of it,” Hemsworth said in an interview with Vanity Fair, reports deadline.com.

Last year in September, Renner attended Chris Evans’ wedding, where they all praised him for his recovery.

Downey Jr said: “If there’s one characteristic we’d all agree is paramount… it’s resilience. To see Renner embody that literally and in the context of what was basically Portuguese-American wedding was mind-blowing. Fully recovered and ready to celebrate. So, yes, miracles happen.”

Hemsworth added: “There was an astounding sense of gratitude from him around just being alive.”

Hemsworth also opened up about his regret on ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’.

“I got caught up in the improv and the wackiness, and I became a parody of myself. I didn’t stick the landing.”

He added: “Sometimes I felt like a security guard for the team. I would read everyone else’s lines, and go, ‘Oh, they got way cooler stuff. They’re having more fun.’ What’s my character doing? It was always about, ‘You’ve got the wig on. You’ve got the muscles. You’ve got the costume.”

“Where’s the lighting?’ Yeah, I’m part of this big thing, but I’m probably pretty replaceable.”

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