Yesterday it was reported that Justin Timberlake was in contention to play The Green Lantern. JT had shot a screen test for the film, as had the other three contenders Bradley Cooper, Jared Leto, and Ryan Reynolds. But at the end of the day on Friday, Reynolds was chosen over the other finalists to play the role of Hal Jordan aka The Green Lantern.
The Hollywood Reporter adds that the deal isn’t yet finalized, but Reynolds in the final choice (they just need to agree on money and specifics). The studio “had holding options on the three actors, but, except for Reynolds, those expired Monday. Reynolds’ option would have expired end of day Friday.” Producer Donald De Line, director Martin Campbell and the studio each had different favorites which made it difficult to agree on any one choice.
The film’s budget isn’t finalized but Warner Bros is hoping to begin shooting in January, hoping to have the films in theaters for the previously announced June 17th 2011 release date. Last we heard, Warners was planning to shoot the film at Fox Studios Australia in Sydney (to take advantage of tax rebates), with a budget of around $150 million.
Casino Royale director Martin Campbell is set to helm the project based on a screenplay by Greg Berlanti (Everwood, Eli Stone), Marc Guggenheim (Law & Order, Eli Stone) and Michael Green (Smallville, Heroes). The Green Lantern character was created by writer Bill Finger and artist Martin Nodell in All-American Comics #16, published in July 1940. The Green Lantern possesses a power ring that gives him control over the physical world as long as the wielder has sufficient willpower and strength to wield it.
What do you think of the choice of Ryan Reynolds? He certainly looks the part and has the right physique for the role. He’s very likable and charismatic actor who has been stuck in a bunch of bad films, but I definitely like the choice — especially over Justin Timberlake. But I’m wondering how this may effect Marvel/Fox’s preliminary plans to have him play Deadpool in a stand-alone film.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Ratings: America's Got the Goods, Warehouse 13 and More
Some recent ratings highlights:
• On Tuesday, America's Got Talent ranked second behind an NCIS repeat, drawing 10.4 million total viewers. Come Wednesday, Talent topped the night with an audience of 11.7 mil (up 390K week-to-week).
• Among Tuesday premieres, SyFy's Warehouse 13 scored 3.5 mil, ranking as the cabler's No. 3 premiere of all time (behind Stargate Atlantis and Eureka). ABC Family's 10 Things I Hate About You got love from 1.6 mil, making it the network's most-watched comedy premiere ever.
• Wipeout on Wednesday welcomed 8 million viewers, up 270K. Lead-out I Survived a Japanese Game Show inched up a hair to 4.1 mil.
• Wednesday's edition of So You Think You Can Dance partnered with an audience of 7.46 mil, dipping 200 thou.
• NBC's The Philanthropist continues to cry out for a helping hand, dropping another 10 percent to 5.1 mil.
• On Tuesday, America's Got Talent ranked second behind an NCIS repeat, drawing 10.4 million total viewers. Come Wednesday, Talent topped the night with an audience of 11.7 mil (up 390K week-to-week).
• Among Tuesday premieres, SyFy's Warehouse 13 scored 3.5 mil, ranking as the cabler's No. 3 premiere of all time (behind Stargate Atlantis and Eureka). ABC Family's 10 Things I Hate About You got love from 1.6 mil, making it the network's most-watched comedy premiere ever.
• Wipeout on Wednesday welcomed 8 million viewers, up 270K. Lead-out I Survived a Japanese Game Show inched up a hair to 4.1 mil.
• Wednesday's edition of So You Think You Can Dance partnered with an audience of 7.46 mil, dipping 200 thou.
• NBC's The Philanthropist continues to cry out for a helping hand, dropping another 10 percent to 5.1 mil.
Mel Gibson To Star In The Beaver?
Remember The Beaver? First-time writer Kyle Killen’s spec screenplay created all sorts of buzz around Hollywood, ended up on the 2008 Black List (a list of the hottest unproduced screenplays of the year), and gained the interest of Steve Carell and director Jay Roach. /Film’s own Brendon Connelly called the screenplay “one of the few very best screenplays” he has “ever read.”
But after Steve moved on to Date Night and Roach moved on to Dinner for Schmucks, the producers moved on to Jim Carrey, who signed on the condition that they find a suitable director. Not sure what happened since, but Jodie Foster (who directed Little Man Tate and Home of the Holidays), who was one of the contenders at the time, has officially come on board the project. Carrey is gone. In his place… Mel Gibson?
That’s right. Gibson has signed on to star in the film after Foster apparently brought him the project. The two co-starred together in the 1994 film Maverick.
Gibson will play Walter, a troubled father, husband and CEO of a stalling toy company, who finds a glove puppet named The Beaver, which he begins to wear without pause, and adopts as a kind of avatar through which he carries out all of his communication. Apparently most of the dialogue in the story comes through the Beaver, and be delivered in what Killen describes as a “crisp English accent”. I can’t really imagine Mel Gibson pulling off this role. Foster will be doing dual duties, starring in the film as Walter’s wife.
The producers are pushing for a September start on location in New York City, but financing for the $18-19 million film has yet to be finalized.
But after Steve moved on to Date Night and Roach moved on to Dinner for Schmucks, the producers moved on to Jim Carrey, who signed on the condition that they find a suitable director. Not sure what happened since, but Jodie Foster (who directed Little Man Tate and Home of the Holidays), who was one of the contenders at the time, has officially come on board the project. Carrey is gone. In his place… Mel Gibson?
That’s right. Gibson has signed on to star in the film after Foster apparently brought him the project. The two co-starred together in the 1994 film Maverick.
Gibson will play Walter, a troubled father, husband and CEO of a stalling toy company, who finds a glove puppet named The Beaver, which he begins to wear without pause, and adopts as a kind of avatar through which he carries out all of his communication. Apparently most of the dialogue in the story comes through the Beaver, and be delivered in what Killen describes as a “crisp English accent”. I can’t really imagine Mel Gibson pulling off this role. Foster will be doing dual duties, starring in the film as Walter’s wife.
The producers are pushing for a September start on location in New York City, but financing for the $18-19 million film has yet to be finalized.
Cooper, Reynolds & Timberlake are Green Lantern Frontrunners
The Hollywood Reporter says that Bradley Cooper, Ryan Reynolds and Justin Timberlake are the three frontrunners for Warner Bros. Pictures' Green Lantern.
Along with director Martin Campbell and producers Donald De Line and Greg Berlanti, Warner Bros. has spent the past five months searching for the actor to play Hal Jordan, the hot-shot Air Force pilot who is chosen by a dying alien to be his successor in an intergalactic police force known as the Green Lanterns.
Other actors in the early mix included Michael Fassbender, Henry Cavill and Jared Leto.
The trade adds that De Line, Campbell and the studio each had a different favorite among the three finalists, making it difficult to come to a consensus.
The studio is targeting a June 17, 2011 release.
Along with director Martin Campbell and producers Donald De Line and Greg Berlanti, Warner Bros. has spent the past five months searching for the actor to play Hal Jordan, the hot-shot Air Force pilot who is chosen by a dying alien to be his successor in an intergalactic police force known as the Green Lanterns.
Other actors in the early mix included Michael Fassbender, Henry Cavill and Jared Leto.
The trade adds that De Line, Campbell and the studio each had a different favorite among the three finalists, making it difficult to come to a consensus.
The studio is targeting a June 17, 2011 release.
Sly To World: 'I Hope You Like Your Action Movies Filled With Elderly People!' 'Expendables 2' Planned
Principal photography has been completed on Sylvester Stallone's "The Expendables," but no sooner has the ink dried on the contracts has Milennium Films' Avi Lerner commissioned development to begin on a sequel, possibly more than one. Speaking to nola.com, he says, "Definitely. We already have got some ideas about 'Expendables No. 2,' 'No. 3'... Definitely, it's a franchise movie."
While "The Expendables" could easily result in a sequel (and from the script we read, it certainly leans hard in that direction, keep in mind- Lerner views EVERYTHING as a franchise. Lerner has served as a producer on sequels to "Shark Attack," "Undisputed," "The Prince & Me" and "Bad Lieutenant," among others, and still on his resume is another long-rumored entry in the "Rambo" series. Does this guy walk to the Grand Canyon and think, "Pretty spectacular, but it would be better if it was a trilogy"?
While Stallone is still in fighting shape, he's 63 years old, man! The cast in "Expendables" doesn't skew much younger, from 36 year old slugger Jason Statham to 56 year old Mickey Rourke. If Stallone cranks two more films and his supposed "Rambo" sequel, Stallone would be, at the youngest, 68, writing, directing and starring in these films. Do they make steroids that powerful?
While "The Expendables" could easily result in a sequel (and from the script we read, it certainly leans hard in that direction, keep in mind- Lerner views EVERYTHING as a franchise. Lerner has served as a producer on sequels to "Shark Attack," "Undisputed," "The Prince & Me" and "Bad Lieutenant," among others, and still on his resume is another long-rumored entry in the "Rambo" series. Does this guy walk to the Grand Canyon and think, "Pretty spectacular, but it would be better if it was a trilogy"?
While Stallone is still in fighting shape, he's 63 years old, man! The cast in "Expendables" doesn't skew much younger, from 36 year old slugger Jason Statham to 56 year old Mickey Rourke. If Stallone cranks two more films and his supposed "Rambo" sequel, Stallone would be, at the youngest, 68, writing, directing and starring in these films. Do they make steroids that powerful?
The Foot Clan Confirmed For Live-Action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Movie
In April, it was announced that Mirage Studios would be making a new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles live-action movie with initial discussions involve using “hybrid” ninja turtles. Co-creator Peter Laird said early on that the plan is to do a “Batman Begins-style” reboot, retelling the Turtles’ origin story. But when discussion came to the storyline and villain, Laird seemed more excited about involving some of the characters not explored in the film, like Baxter Stockman and the robotic mousers, than revisiting The Foot Clan.
But it looks like the new film will be revisiting the story of Shredder and the Foot Clan after all. /Film reader movieboy alerts me to a casting call for martial arts experts to be part of the “stealth TMNT nemesis, the Foot Clan.” Details after the jump.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, in association with Mirage Studios, 4Kids Entertainment and TMNT Productions will host an open casting call for martial arts experts to audition for the upcoming Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, hitting theaters in 2011. We will select the best from the auditions to be a part of the stealth TMNT nemesis, the Foot Clan.
But it looks like the new film will be revisiting the story of Shredder and the Foot Clan after all. /Film reader movieboy alerts me to a casting call for martial arts experts to be part of the “stealth TMNT nemesis, the Foot Clan.” Details after the jump.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, in association with Mirage Studios, 4Kids Entertainment and TMNT Productions will host an open casting call for martial arts experts to audition for the upcoming Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, hitting theaters in 2011. We will select the best from the auditions to be a part of the stealth TMNT nemesis, the Foot Clan.
Superman Returning Soon? In Green Lantern Movie, As Well As His Own?
It’s a red letter day for Superman, pun intended. Not only is there some discussion about his potential appearance in the Green Lantern film, a crucially important law suit has been settled. Variety have reported that Warner Bros. and DC have been granted a favorable ruling in their case with the heirs of Jerry Siegel. This suit was first filed on April 16, 1999 so the decision has been a long time coming, and it is only an interim decision too, with more to come on other matters.
To cut this story down to the bits and pieces that really impact upon /Film business, I’ll quote the key lines from the Variety report after the break.
Here’s the first juicy nugget:
The judge, who conducted a 10-day bench trial, also noted that Warner Bros. chairman Alan Horn had testified that he hopes to make another “Superman” movie but added that the property wasn’t under development at the studio, that no script had been written and that the earliest another “Superman” pic could be released would be in 2012.
And the second:
[Siegel's attorney] Toberoff also asserted in a written statement that the Siegel heirs and the heirs of co-creator Joe Shuster will own the entire Superman copyright in 2013.
Which means, in effect, no more Superman comics from DC or Superman films from Warner Bros. after that date, unless the heirs of Siegel and Shuster strike a new deal. Mind boggingly, this could even see Superman travel over to become part of the Marvel universe. Wow.
So, any new Superman film would have to be in production relatively quickly, though nothing is actually on the cards. Perhaps there’s not even time for a full-on Supes feature, so our only hope of seeing Kal-El astride the multiplexes in new adventure might be a his rumored appearance in Green Lantern - though that, apparently, would be in his alter-ego guise of Clark Kent.
In an interview with MTV, Marc Guggenheim commented on the possibility:
Honestly, it changes on a daily basis. Whatever information I gave you today would be obsolete in a week, and maybe come back again in two weeks. And even if it wasn’t in flux at the script stage, it would still be constantly in flux because you can film it, put it in the original cut, and eventually it could end up on the editing room floor.
If I were Alan Horn I’d get Michael Dougherty, Dan Harris and Bryan Singer in my office first thing in the morning and start winding their keys.
To cut this story down to the bits and pieces that really impact upon /Film business, I’ll quote the key lines from the Variety report after the break.
Here’s the first juicy nugget:
The judge, who conducted a 10-day bench trial, also noted that Warner Bros. chairman Alan Horn had testified that he hopes to make another “Superman” movie but added that the property wasn’t under development at the studio, that no script had been written and that the earliest another “Superman” pic could be released would be in 2012.
And the second:
[Siegel's attorney] Toberoff also asserted in a written statement that the Siegel heirs and the heirs of co-creator Joe Shuster will own the entire Superman copyright in 2013.
Which means, in effect, no more Superman comics from DC or Superman films from Warner Bros. after that date, unless the heirs of Siegel and Shuster strike a new deal. Mind boggingly, this could even see Superman travel over to become part of the Marvel universe. Wow.
So, any new Superman film would have to be in production relatively quickly, though nothing is actually on the cards. Perhaps there’s not even time for a full-on Supes feature, so our only hope of seeing Kal-El astride the multiplexes in new adventure might be a his rumored appearance in Green Lantern - though that, apparently, would be in his alter-ego guise of Clark Kent.
In an interview with MTV, Marc Guggenheim commented on the possibility:
Honestly, it changes on a daily basis. Whatever information I gave you today would be obsolete in a week, and maybe come back again in two weeks. And even if it wasn’t in flux at the script stage, it would still be constantly in flux because you can film it, put it in the original cut, and eventually it could end up on the editing room floor.
If I were Alan Horn I’d get Michael Dougherty, Dan Harris and Bryan Singer in my office first thing in the morning and start winding their keys.
Todd Phillips and Zach Galifianakis Book Two Films: Due Date and Hangover 2
Now we know what Zach Galifianakis and Todd Phillips are going to do to celebrate The Hangover making several boatloads of cash: they’ll do two more movies together. Variety reports that both have signed on to make Due Date for Warner Bros., and then they’ll do The Hangover 2 next year. (Actually, the trade doesn’t specifically say that anyone but Phillips and his co-writer Scot Armstrong are currently set for H2, but the returning trio is a very safe bet.) Due Date is one of the three possible projects we reported on a couple of days ago, and one that has kind of a Hangover plus Planes, Trains and Automobiles implication as we learn more about the plot.
Due Date, by Alan R. Cohen and Alan Freedland, with rewrites by Adam Sztykiel, has Galifianakis as the companion to an expectant father as they dash cross-country to (hopefully) arrive in time for the childbirth. The father role is yet to be cast. That’ll shoot at the beginning of October for and early June release in 2010. Then Hangover 2 will go in front of cameras later next year for a Memorial Day ‘11 release. That schedule probably also leaves room to scuttle the sequel if Due Date tanks.
I’m glad that these guys have work set up, and I’m glad that Phillips got The Hangover made by brokering a deal that, in the end, has netted him a serious amount of money. But neither of these movies are anything I can get excited about. Maybe that’ll change as further cast and story details are announced. And I thought The Hangover sounded dumb when first announced too, so what the hell do I know? One thing I do know is that I’m getting as tired of writing about this series of projects as you might be of reading about it; hopefully we can now take a break for a while.
Oh, one last note: Man-Witch, the Phillips film that once was slated for Jack Black, is still happening in some form, but he’s off as director and will only produce as it goes forward. Now we’re done. Really.
Due Date, by Alan R. Cohen and Alan Freedland, with rewrites by Adam Sztykiel, has Galifianakis as the companion to an expectant father as they dash cross-country to (hopefully) arrive in time for the childbirth. The father role is yet to be cast. That’ll shoot at the beginning of October for and early June release in 2010. Then Hangover 2 will go in front of cameras later next year for a Memorial Day ‘11 release. That schedule probably also leaves room to scuttle the sequel if Due Date tanks.
I’m glad that these guys have work set up, and I’m glad that Phillips got The Hangover made by brokering a deal that, in the end, has netted him a serious amount of money. But neither of these movies are anything I can get excited about. Maybe that’ll change as further cast and story details are announced. And I thought The Hangover sounded dumb when first announced too, so what the hell do I know? One thing I do know is that I’m getting as tired of writing about this series of projects as you might be of reading about it; hopefully we can now take a break for a while.
Oh, one last note: Man-Witch, the Phillips film that once was slated for Jack Black, is still happening in some form, but he’s off as director and will only produce as it goes forward. Now we’re done. Really.
Nas' Next Album All About 'Peace And Love'
Though he's in the midst of finishing his "Distant Relatives" collaboration with Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, rap superstar Nas is looking towards making a followup to his 2008 album "Untitled." "After this (Marley) project is done," he tells Billboard.com, "I'll start my record."
The album's direction is still germinating, Nas says. "Untitled," of course, came out amidst great controversy over the racial epithet he originally wanted to use for the title. The new material will also come in the wake of divorce proceedings filed by his wife, Kelis.
"It's funny; drama is something that definitely kicks a fire underneath artists," Nas says. "But I try not to make that my focus. I'm trying to have peace and love.
"My shit right now is age-appropriate for myself. I love everything, most of the things that are going on musically. But my music will talk about what I see, how I see it, and it should be interesting. My last things were about what I felt about hip-hop and what I felt about race matters. This new thing will be a natural thing. I have a few things that I feel like doing, but who knows what it will be."
Nas is currently touring with Marley as part of this year's Rock The Bells package and will to finish "Distant Relatives" after the tour. They also plan to tour extensively following its release, and Nas is feeling both that album and his next release will be part of a hip-hop scene he finds more potent than it's been in recent years.
"I think it is headed in a good direction," he says. "Everybody is trying to beat the life back into it. People are forced to beat the life back into it because it's either that or, if hip-hop dies completely, then it's our fault. So no one wants that on their shoulders. No one wants that on their brain. We have a responsibility to keep this shit crunchy. That means a lot to fans and people, and we should care more about the music."
The album's direction is still germinating, Nas says. "Untitled," of course, came out amidst great controversy over the racial epithet he originally wanted to use for the title. The new material will also come in the wake of divorce proceedings filed by his wife, Kelis.
"It's funny; drama is something that definitely kicks a fire underneath artists," Nas says. "But I try not to make that my focus. I'm trying to have peace and love.
"My shit right now is age-appropriate for myself. I love everything, most of the things that are going on musically. But my music will talk about what I see, how I see it, and it should be interesting. My last things were about what I felt about hip-hop and what I felt about race matters. This new thing will be a natural thing. I have a few things that I feel like doing, but who knows what it will be."
Nas is currently touring with Marley as part of this year's Rock The Bells package and will to finish "Distant Relatives" after the tour. They also plan to tour extensively following its release, and Nas is feeling both that album and his next release will be part of a hip-hop scene he finds more potent than it's been in recent years.
"I think it is headed in a good direction," he says. "Everybody is trying to beat the life back into it. People are forced to beat the life back into it because it's either that or, if hip-hop dies completely, then it's our fault. So no one wants that on their shoulders. No one wants that on their brain. We have a responsibility to keep this shit crunchy. That means a lot to fans and people, and we should care more about the music."
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Eli Roth Not Involved With Hostel III
Eli Roth has been doing some phone interviews over the last couple days to promote Inglorious Basterds, and Shock Till You Drop got a lot of info out of the director about various upcoming projects. Most notably, he says that he’s learned that he really only wants to direct original stories that he writes. And while the idea of doing sequels hasn’t been ruled out, Roth has nothing to do with Hostel III, of which he says “If I started something and other people want to continue it, go for it. I’m just not involved in any way.” So what is Roth doing?
Despite a lot of talk about Trailer Trash over the last couple years, which was pitched as a Grindhouse-esque collection of faux movie trailers, it seems like Endangered Species could still be next. That’s the film that Roth teased in an interview at Cannes, which he’d now like to cast in the fall and shoot hopefully this year, or at latest next spring. Will he still use some of that budget to make the full version of his Grindhouse trailer Thanksgiving, as he also said at Cannes? Let’s hope so, as Thanksgiving remains the most entertaining thing he’s done to date. (Really, after Grindhouse failed to make money, was anyone really dying to finance Trailer Trash? Probably not, even though he’s described it as a Monty Python and the Holy Grail or Amazon Women on the Moon style comedy more than a horror film.)
Roth also confirms that his adaptation of Stephen King’s Cell is dead, though the Weinsteins could well make it with someone else. “I walked off Cell kind of quietly,” Roth says. “There was just sort of a difference in opinion on how to make to film and what the story should be, and there’s a different direction the studio wants to go with it.” He’s still producing the RZA film The Man With the Iron Fist, though, as well as the remake of Tobe Hooper’s Funhouse and the exorcism film Cotton, which is now in post-production.
Despite a lot of talk about Trailer Trash over the last couple years, which was pitched as a Grindhouse-esque collection of faux movie trailers, it seems like Endangered Species could still be next. That’s the film that Roth teased in an interview at Cannes, which he’d now like to cast in the fall and shoot hopefully this year, or at latest next spring. Will he still use some of that budget to make the full version of his Grindhouse trailer Thanksgiving, as he also said at Cannes? Let’s hope so, as Thanksgiving remains the most entertaining thing he’s done to date. (Really, after Grindhouse failed to make money, was anyone really dying to finance Trailer Trash? Probably not, even though he’s described it as a Monty Python and the Holy Grail or Amazon Women on the Moon style comedy more than a horror film.)
Roth also confirms that his adaptation of Stephen King’s Cell is dead, though the Weinsteins could well make it with someone else. “I walked off Cell kind of quietly,” Roth says. “There was just sort of a difference in opinion on how to make to film and what the story should be, and there’s a different direction the studio wants to go with it.” He’s still producing the RZA film The Man With the Iron Fist, though, as well as the remake of Tobe Hooper’s Funhouse and the exorcism film Cotton, which is now in post-production.
Comedy Central Orders New Jon Heder Comedy
Comedy Central has ordered an initial run of 10 episodes of a new, untitled sitcom starring Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory) from Gary Sanchez Productions and Debmar-Mercury, it was announced today by Gary Sanchez Productions, Comedy Central and Debmar-Mercury.
Produced by Gary Sanchez Productions, the production company led by Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Chris Henchy, distributed by Debmar-Mercury, the untitled, multi-camera sitcom for Comedy Central will star Jon Heder as an out of work computer IT specialist who leaves the big city and returns to his small home town, where he moves back in with his parents and younger brother. Ferrell, McKay and Henchy will write and produce the series.
Modeled after previous successful groundbreaking Tyler Perry sitcom ventures from Debmar-Mercury co-presidents Mort Marcus and Ira Bernstein, Comedy Central has initially ordered 10 episodes of the Heder sitcom and will then have the option to order an additional 90 episodes upon a successful first-season run. Debmar-Mercury would retain the rights to take the series into syndication after its run on Comedy Central. Prior to this deal, Debmar-Mercury had partnered with Comedy Central in 2003 to distribute the broadcast syndication rights to the Emmy® and Peabody® Award-winning series "South Park."
"Combining the creative genius of the Gary Sanchez gang with the brilliant business model established by Mort and Ira at Debmar-Mercury should ensure many, many great laughs in the years to come on Comedy Central," says Michele Ganeless, president, Comedy Central. "With a proven track record featuring some of the most memorable comedy films ever made, we are so excited to be in business with Will, Adam, Chris and Jon," says Lauren Corrao, president, original programming and development, Comedy Central.
"We've always been fans of Jon's," McKay comments. "This deal gives us a chance to take some big creative swings without the risk of testing and focus grouping the show to death."
"We immediately jumped at the opportunity to be in business with this elite team of A-list comedy talents, who are among a handful of people in Hollywood capable of pulling off a project of this magnitude," notes Marcus. Adds Bernstein, "As we expand on a proven business model, we could not be more pleased that Comedy Central chose this concept to serve as its first full-fledged, live-action original sitcom."
Produced by Gary Sanchez Productions, the production company led by Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Chris Henchy, distributed by Debmar-Mercury, the untitled, multi-camera sitcom for Comedy Central will star Jon Heder as an out of work computer IT specialist who leaves the big city and returns to his small home town, where he moves back in with his parents and younger brother. Ferrell, McKay and Henchy will write and produce the series.
Modeled after previous successful groundbreaking Tyler Perry sitcom ventures from Debmar-Mercury co-presidents Mort Marcus and Ira Bernstein, Comedy Central has initially ordered 10 episodes of the Heder sitcom and will then have the option to order an additional 90 episodes upon a successful first-season run. Debmar-Mercury would retain the rights to take the series into syndication after its run on Comedy Central. Prior to this deal, Debmar-Mercury had partnered with Comedy Central in 2003 to distribute the broadcast syndication rights to the Emmy® and Peabody® Award-winning series "South Park."
"Combining the creative genius of the Gary Sanchez gang with the brilliant business model established by Mort and Ira at Debmar-Mercury should ensure many, many great laughs in the years to come on Comedy Central," says Michele Ganeless, president, Comedy Central. "With a proven track record featuring some of the most memorable comedy films ever made, we are so excited to be in business with Will, Adam, Chris and Jon," says Lauren Corrao, president, original programming and development, Comedy Central.
"We've always been fans of Jon's," McKay comments. "This deal gives us a chance to take some big creative swings without the risk of testing and focus grouping the show to death."
"We immediately jumped at the opportunity to be in business with this elite team of A-list comedy talents, who are among a handful of people in Hollywood capable of pulling off a project of this magnitude," notes Marcus. Adds Bernstein, "As we expand on a proven business model, we could not be more pleased that Comedy Central chose this concept to serve as its first full-fledged, live-action original sitcom."
Ratings: Jackson Memorial Draws 31 Million TV Viewers, Millions More Online
Michael Jackson's memorial service on Tuesday drew 31.1 million total viewers across 18 broadcast and cable networks tallied by Nielsen.
Princess Diana's September 1997 funeral (which began at 6 am/ET), by comparison, drew 33.25 million viewers, while former President Ronald Reagan's June 2004 funeral (a midday service) had an audience of 20.8 million.
Check out photos of musicians who've died too young
As far as other daytime TV ratings milestones go, the November 1981 wedding of General Hospital's Luke and Laura was attended by 30 million viewers.
TV viewership only tells a fraction of the Jackson memorial story, however. The event also accounted for tens of millions of live streams online - 32 million alone from just MSNBC.com, ABCNews.com and FoxNews.com.
AEG, which produced the Staples Center event, estimates that all told, some 1 billion people worldwide watched the service in some manner. Such a grand total, however, perhaps never can be verified.
During Tuesday's prime-time hours, four different network newsmagazine specials — ABC's 20/20 and Primetime, CBS' 48 Hours Mystery, and NBC's Dateline — combined to deliver 26.2 million total viewers. By comparison, prime-time coverage of Reagan's burial drew 35 million viewers.
Princess Diana's September 1997 funeral (which began at 6 am/ET), by comparison, drew 33.25 million viewers, while former President Ronald Reagan's June 2004 funeral (a midday service) had an audience of 20.8 million.
Check out photos of musicians who've died too young
As far as other daytime TV ratings milestones go, the November 1981 wedding of General Hospital's Luke and Laura was attended by 30 million viewers.
TV viewership only tells a fraction of the Jackson memorial story, however. The event also accounted for tens of millions of live streams online - 32 million alone from just MSNBC.com, ABCNews.com and FoxNews.com.
AEG, which produced the Staples Center event, estimates that all told, some 1 billion people worldwide watched the service in some manner. Such a grand total, however, perhaps never can be verified.
During Tuesday's prime-time hours, four different network newsmagazine specials — ABC's 20/20 and Primetime, CBS' 48 Hours Mystery, and NBC's Dateline — combined to deliver 26.2 million total viewers. By comparison, prime-time coverage of Reagan's burial drew 35 million viewers.
Free agent McDyess chooses Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs landed free agent Antonio McDyess on Wednesday in another big offseason pickup for the aging NBA power that apparently isn't ready to fade away just yet.
McDyess, who despite being 34 was among the most sought players on the market this summer, reached a deal with the Spurs and is expected to sign later this week, team spokesman Cliff Puchalski said.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the Spurs had their full midlevel exception, worth about $5.85 million this season, to offer the 6-foot-9 forward. McDyess spent the last five seasons with Detroit, which also officially lost Rasheed Wallace on Wednesday when the veteran signed with Boston.
The Spurs reportedly sought Wallace, too, but got what they were looking for in McDyess: a big and proven frontcourt presence alongside Tim Duncan. The Spurs have won four NBA championships in the Duncan era, but their star centerpiece will be 33 come next year's playoffs.
With their window for a fifth title shrinking, the Spurs began a busy offseason in June by trading for Milwaukee swingman Richard Jefferson in a four-player deal that pushed San Antonio into the luxury tax.
Between Jefferson and McDyess, the Spurs have added two former Olympians to their lineup after being ousted in the first round of the playoffs last season for the first time since 2000. Following that series, the Spurs candidly admitted to not packing the same firepower as Dallas.
McDyess averaged 9.6 points and 9.8 rebounds in his 14th NBA season. His rebounding average last season was the third highest of his career.
The second overall pick in the 1995 draft, McDyess spent six seasons in Denver and also had stops in Phoenix and New York. He has never won an NBA title, going to Detroit the year after the Pistons won their last in 2004.
San Antonio also added a lesser-known big man Wednesday in Marcus Haislip, the former first-round pick who spent the past two years in Spain after fizzling in his first three NBA seasons. The 6-10 forward was picked 13th overall by Milwaukee in 2002 before going to Europe to work on his game.
The Spurs also brought back forward Malik Hairston, who played 15 games with the Spurs last season and spent much of the year in the NBA development league.
San Antonio needed size after dealing backups Fabricio Oberto and Kurt Thomas in the Jefferson trade. The deal amounted to a salary dump for the Bucks, who wanted to shed the $29.2 million owed Jefferson over the next two seasons.
McDyess, who despite being 34 was among the most sought players on the market this summer, reached a deal with the Spurs and is expected to sign later this week, team spokesman Cliff Puchalski said.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the Spurs had their full midlevel exception, worth about $5.85 million this season, to offer the 6-foot-9 forward. McDyess spent the last five seasons with Detroit, which also officially lost Rasheed Wallace on Wednesday when the veteran signed with Boston.
The Spurs reportedly sought Wallace, too, but got what they were looking for in McDyess: a big and proven frontcourt presence alongside Tim Duncan. The Spurs have won four NBA championships in the Duncan era, but their star centerpiece will be 33 come next year's playoffs.
With their window for a fifth title shrinking, the Spurs began a busy offseason in June by trading for Milwaukee swingman Richard Jefferson in a four-player deal that pushed San Antonio into the luxury tax.
Between Jefferson and McDyess, the Spurs have added two former Olympians to their lineup after being ousted in the first round of the playoffs last season for the first time since 2000. Following that series, the Spurs candidly admitted to not packing the same firepower as Dallas.
McDyess averaged 9.6 points and 9.8 rebounds in his 14th NBA season. His rebounding average last season was the third highest of his career.
The second overall pick in the 1995 draft, McDyess spent six seasons in Denver and also had stops in Phoenix and New York. He has never won an NBA title, going to Detroit the year after the Pistons won their last in 2004.
San Antonio also added a lesser-known big man Wednesday in Marcus Haislip, the former first-round pick who spent the past two years in Spain after fizzling in his first three NBA seasons. The 6-10 forward was picked 13th overall by Milwaukee in 2002 before going to Europe to work on his game.
The Spurs also brought back forward Malik Hairston, who played 15 games with the Spurs last season and spent much of the year in the NBA development league.
San Antonio needed size after dealing backups Fabricio Oberto and Kurt Thomas in the Jefferson trade. The deal amounted to a salary dump for the Bucks, who wanted to shed the $29.2 million owed Jefferson over the next two seasons.
Mortal Kombat 3 Filming in September?
It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything about a new Mortal Kombat movie. Back in September of last year, director Christopher ‘mink’ Morrison told moviehole that they were still trying to find the money before going ahead with Mortal Kombat 3 (or whatever it will likely be titled).
And then there is that pesky lawsuit filed by film producer Larry Kasanoff (Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation) and his production company Threshold Entertainment against Midway Games alleging intellectual property claims to the Mortal Kombat franchise. But somehow all pending lawsuits filed against Midway were magically “resolved” last week, right before the court gave Warner Bros the okay to acquire Midway. We assume this means out of court settlements. But does this mean that a new Mortal Kombat film is closer to reality?
FirstShowing has discovered an article in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune where 44-year-old eighth-degree black belt Chris Casamassa claims he’s set to start filming the third Mortal Kombat film in September. Casamassa is a stunt performer who played the role of Scorpion in the first two films. Is it possible that Mortal Kombat 3 now has funding from new Midway owner Warner Bros? It’s also possible that Warner Bros could produce the film on the cheap and release it through their Warner Premiere direct-to-dvd/Blu-ray unit. Who knows.
Right now we’re going off a short quote from a stunt actor, so I don’t feel the need to speculate much further. The real question should be, do we really need another Mortal Kombat film? Didn’t we learn our lesson from Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, which is considered one of the worst movies of all time (rated 3.1 out of 10 on IMDb)?
And then there is that pesky lawsuit filed by film producer Larry Kasanoff (Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation) and his production company Threshold Entertainment against Midway Games alleging intellectual property claims to the Mortal Kombat franchise. But somehow all pending lawsuits filed against Midway were magically “resolved” last week, right before the court gave Warner Bros the okay to acquire Midway. We assume this means out of court settlements. But does this mean that a new Mortal Kombat film is closer to reality?
FirstShowing has discovered an article in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune where 44-year-old eighth-degree black belt Chris Casamassa claims he’s set to start filming the third Mortal Kombat film in September. Casamassa is a stunt performer who played the role of Scorpion in the first two films. Is it possible that Mortal Kombat 3 now has funding from new Midway owner Warner Bros? It’s also possible that Warner Bros could produce the film on the cheap and release it through their Warner Premiere direct-to-dvd/Blu-ray unit. Who knows.
Right now we’re going off a short quote from a stunt actor, so I don’t feel the need to speculate much further. The real question should be, do we really need another Mortal Kombat film? Didn’t we learn our lesson from Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, which is considered one of the worst movies of all time (rated 3.1 out of 10 on IMDb)?
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Hawks agree to 3-year deal with Bibby
The Atlanta Hawks have reached an agreement to re-sign Mike Bibby to a three-year deal.
Bibby's agent, David Falk, said Tuesday he has reached an "oral understanding" that will allow the Hawks to retain the point guard who has led the team to two straight playoff appearances.
"We've reached an agreement in principle that hopefully will be announced very soon," Falk said.
Bibby was an unrestricted free agent. Wednesday is the first day NBA free agents are allowed to sign contracts.
Hawks general manager Rick Sund said Tuesday he could not comment on the status of the talks with Bibby.
Falk said the agreement is a good fit for both parties. Falk said the 31-year-old Bibby has enjoyed his time with Atlanta coach Mike Woodson, who has leaned on the 11-year veteran to lead a young team.
"It has been a very good environment for Mike," Falk said. "He enjoys playing for Coach Woodson, who has allowed him to be a coach on the floor."
Bibby made $14.9 million this season.
The new deal was first reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Falk would not confirm the paper's report the new three-year deal is worth $18 million.
Falk said Bibby and other free agents have found "the market is extremely conservative this year for free agents, compared to last year."
Falk said "a number of teams had interest in him ... but I think Mike was comfortable in the environment" with the Hawks.
"He wanted to stay with a team making a commitment to win," Falk said. "He has stabilized the team, given it direction."
The Hawks are re-signing Bibby after drafting another point guard, Jeff Teague of Wake Forest, in the first round last month and trading for guard Jamal Crawford.
Woodson has said the Hawks couldn't have reached the playoffs in 2008 for the first time since 1999 without Bibby.
The Hawks acquired Bibby from Sacramento on Feb. 16, 2008, sending four players and a second-round draft pick to the Kings.
Before the trade for Bibby, point guard was a weak spot for the team. Former general manager Billy Knight passed on point guards Chris Paul and Deron Williams when making Marvin Williams the No. 2 overall pick in 2005. Deron Williams and Paul were the next two picks.
Bibby averaged 14.9 points and 5.0 assists per game last season as the Hawks won 47 games and advanced to the second round of the playoffs.
Marvin Williams is a restricted free agent and may be Sund's next priority. Crawford may fill the role of another restricted free agent, guard Flip Murray, who averaged 12.2 points as the top scorer off the bench.
Another top backup, center Zaza Pachulia, also is a restricted free agent.
Bibby's agent, David Falk, said Tuesday he has reached an "oral understanding" that will allow the Hawks to retain the point guard who has led the team to two straight playoff appearances.
"We've reached an agreement in principle that hopefully will be announced very soon," Falk said.
Bibby was an unrestricted free agent. Wednesday is the first day NBA free agents are allowed to sign contracts.
Hawks general manager Rick Sund said Tuesday he could not comment on the status of the talks with Bibby.
Falk said the agreement is a good fit for both parties. Falk said the 31-year-old Bibby has enjoyed his time with Atlanta coach Mike Woodson, who has leaned on the 11-year veteran to lead a young team.
"It has been a very good environment for Mike," Falk said. "He enjoys playing for Coach Woodson, who has allowed him to be a coach on the floor."
Bibby made $14.9 million this season.
The new deal was first reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Falk would not confirm the paper's report the new three-year deal is worth $18 million.
Falk said Bibby and other free agents have found "the market is extremely conservative this year for free agents, compared to last year."
Falk said "a number of teams had interest in him ... but I think Mike was comfortable in the environment" with the Hawks.
"He wanted to stay with a team making a commitment to win," Falk said. "He has stabilized the team, given it direction."
The Hawks are re-signing Bibby after drafting another point guard, Jeff Teague of Wake Forest, in the first round last month and trading for guard Jamal Crawford.
Woodson has said the Hawks couldn't have reached the playoffs in 2008 for the first time since 1999 without Bibby.
The Hawks acquired Bibby from Sacramento on Feb. 16, 2008, sending four players and a second-round draft pick to the Kings.
Before the trade for Bibby, point guard was a weak spot for the team. Former general manager Billy Knight passed on point guards Chris Paul and Deron Williams when making Marvin Williams the No. 2 overall pick in 2005. Deron Williams and Paul were the next two picks.
Bibby averaged 14.9 points and 5.0 assists per game last season as the Hawks won 47 games and advanced to the second round of the playoffs.
Marvin Williams is a restricted free agent and may be Sund's next priority. Crawford may fill the role of another restricted free agent, guard Flip Murray, who averaged 12.2 points as the top scorer off the bench.
Another top backup, center Zaza Pachulia, also is a restricted free agent.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Ratings: 5th Grader's Return Lacks Fireworks, and More
Some ratings highlights from the long holiday weekend:
• So You Think You Can Dance on Thursday drew 7.15 million total viewers, up 250K week-to-week. NBC's The Listener (3.28 mil) dropped 14 percent.
• On Friday, Fox's Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? returned to an audience of 4.26 mil — a 40 percent plunge from its last outing (which was on a Thursday in December). Lead-out Mental dipped 7 percent from its previous, Tuesday outing, to 3.43 mil.
• NBC's Kings (1.3 mil) slipped 240 thou on Saturday, while the penultimate episode of ABC's Eli Stone held steady at 2.65 mil.
• Sunday's most-watched programs were 60 Minutes (7.7 mil) and a Cold Case repeat (6.95 mil). NBC's Merlin inched up a hair, to 4.3 mil.
• So You Think You Can Dance on Thursday drew 7.15 million total viewers, up 250K week-to-week. NBC's The Listener (3.28 mil) dropped 14 percent.
• On Friday, Fox's Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? returned to an audience of 4.26 mil — a 40 percent plunge from its last outing (which was on a Thursday in December). Lead-out Mental dipped 7 percent from its previous, Tuesday outing, to 3.43 mil.
• NBC's Kings (1.3 mil) slipped 240 thou on Saturday, while the penultimate episode of ABC's Eli Stone held steady at 2.65 mil.
• Sunday's most-watched programs were 60 Minutes (7.7 mil) and a Cold Case repeat (6.95 mil). NBC's Merlin inched up a hair, to 4.3 mil.
Kidd agrees to 3-year deal with Mavs
Jason Kidd isn't going anywhere.
The free agent point guard has agreed to sign a three-year contract for more than $25 million to remain with Dirk Nowitzki and the rest of the Mavericks. The New York Knicks were among Kidd's suitors.
"We are excited that JKidd and the Mavs have reached an agreement to have Jason return to the Mavs," Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said via e-mail Monday. "We look forward to him continuing to take a major role with the team."
With the contract, the 36-year-old Kidd could end his career in Dallas, which is where he started in 1994. The Oakland, Calif., native was the No. 2 overall pick out of California, and he has also played for Phoenix and New Jersey.
Kidd's return helps the Mavericks as they pursue a supporting cast around Nowitzki, from not having to find a replacement to recruiting players. Kidd, who is third on the career assist list, also will continue to mentor J.J. Barea, who emerged as a solid backup last season, and raw rookie Rodrigue Beaubois, who is coming over from France.
The deal -- which can't be signed until Wednesday -- was first reported by ESPN.com.
The Mavericks also plan to send an offer sheet Wednesday to Marcin Gortat, a 25-year-old center who backed up Dwight Howard in Orlando last season, according to a person with knowledge of negotiations. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of NBA rules against commenting on deals before the signing period opens.
Gortat is expected to receive the full midlevel exception of about $5.6 million, which means any more big moves Dallas makes this offseason will come through trades.
The Mavs can dangle the expiring contract of Erick Dampier and the trade-friendly contract of Jerry Stackhouse in front of other teams. Pretty much everyone but Nowitzki could be dealt, too, as the Mavericks explore ways to keep up with the changes made by top rivals in the Western Conference, especially the defending champion Lakers and division foe San Antonio.
The free agent point guard has agreed to sign a three-year contract for more than $25 million to remain with Dirk Nowitzki and the rest of the Mavericks. The New York Knicks were among Kidd's suitors.
"We are excited that JKidd and the Mavs have reached an agreement to have Jason return to the Mavs," Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said via e-mail Monday. "We look forward to him continuing to take a major role with the team."
With the contract, the 36-year-old Kidd could end his career in Dallas, which is where he started in 1994. The Oakland, Calif., native was the No. 2 overall pick out of California, and he has also played for Phoenix and New Jersey.
Kidd's return helps the Mavericks as they pursue a supporting cast around Nowitzki, from not having to find a replacement to recruiting players. Kidd, who is third on the career assist list, also will continue to mentor J.J. Barea, who emerged as a solid backup last season, and raw rookie Rodrigue Beaubois, who is coming over from France.
The deal -- which can't be signed until Wednesday -- was first reported by ESPN.com.
The Mavericks also plan to send an offer sheet Wednesday to Marcin Gortat, a 25-year-old center who backed up Dwight Howard in Orlando last season, according to a person with knowledge of negotiations. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of NBA rules against commenting on deals before the signing period opens.
Gortat is expected to receive the full midlevel exception of about $5.6 million, which means any more big moves Dallas makes this offseason will come through trades.
The Mavs can dangle the expiring contract of Erick Dampier and the trade-friendly contract of Jerry Stackhouse in front of other teams. Pretty much everyone but Nowitzki could be dealt, too, as the Mavericks explore ways to keep up with the changes made by top rivals in the Western Conference, especially the defending champion Lakers and division foe San Antonio.
Baywatch: The Movie Gets A New Writer/Director
If you’re like me, you’ve hoped that the Baywatch movie would just dry up and go away. The television show, which ran an astounding ten-year run (arguably dying out just as acceptance of the internet rendered a TV show filled with slo-mo jiggling red bathing suits irrelevant) has long been considered fodder for a theatrical film. A few years back there was news/rumor that Jessica Simpson would topline, but that never happened. Now Jeremy Garelick, who came up in the business working for Joel Schumacher, then co-wrote The Break-Up and became part of Todd Phillips’ rewrite crew (he did uncredited work on The Hangover) has been tapped to rewrite and direct Baywatch as a broad comedy. Get it? ‘Broad’. Yeah, I know, never mind.
To Garelick’s credit, he claims never to have seen the original show. He was tapped to rewrite the 2005 draft by Jay Sherick and David Ronn, which was written as more of an action movie. “It felt like the template to do a movie that was similar to Stripes and Police Academy, the comedies I loved growing up,” Garelick said. Stripes, OK. Police Academy? Eugh. In other words, write some really silly, easy to digest material, cast it with boobs and oddballs and you’ve got the recipe for a six-film series that will be wholly irrelevant well before it is finished. Got it!
What’s the plot? According to Variety, “The script now focuses on two unlikely lifeguard candidates trying to catch on alongside the buff bodies that will be as abundant in the film as they were in the TV series.” Too bad David Hasslehoff has aged beyond acceptable suspension of lifeguard disbelief, because I’d love to see him as a Police Academy style hardass antagonist. It would only be fitting. No word on casting yet, or even a real green light; Paramount has the film (it was one of the titles the studio got in the split with Dreamworks) and new president Adam Goodman is evidently considering it strongly.
To Garelick’s credit, he claims never to have seen the original show. He was tapped to rewrite the 2005 draft by Jay Sherick and David Ronn, which was written as more of an action movie. “It felt like the template to do a movie that was similar to Stripes and Police Academy, the comedies I loved growing up,” Garelick said. Stripes, OK. Police Academy? Eugh. In other words, write some really silly, easy to digest material, cast it with boobs and oddballs and you’ve got the recipe for a six-film series that will be wholly irrelevant well before it is finished. Got it!
What’s the plot? According to Variety, “The script now focuses on two unlikely lifeguard candidates trying to catch on alongside the buff bodies that will be as abundant in the film as they were in the TV series.” Too bad David Hasslehoff has aged beyond acceptable suspension of lifeguard disbelief, because I’d love to see him as a Police Academy style hardass antagonist. It would only be fitting. No word on casting yet, or even a real green light; Paramount has the film (it was one of the titles the studio got in the split with Dreamworks) and new president Adam Goodman is evidently considering it strongly.
Zach Galifianakis Circles Three New Projects
Just last week, Marshall Fine wrote an open letter to Zach Galifianakis that echoed what a lot of his long-time fans are probably thinking as The Hangover crosses the $200m mark. Basically: “Zach, please don’t screw this up.” Now the Hollywood Reporter has news that the comic is circling three different projects at Warner Brothers (in addition to the potential Hangover sequel), two of which don’t sound particularly compelling. As Galifianakis becomes the latest unlikely superstar, what’s his next move?
First off, his next move is already made — as we’ve reported, he’s co-starring in the HBO series Bored to Death opposite Jason Schwartzman. He’s in Youth in Revolt, Rogue’s Gallery and a couple other projects that are near completion. So after that, THR mentions three possibilities: Man-Witch, the Todd Phillips film that Jack Black abandoned last summer, Due Date, also with Philips, and Say Uncle.
Man-Witch sounded awful when it came up as a possible project for Black last year; Galifianakis would play a guy who discovers he has supernatural talents, which leads him to attend an all-girls witch school. Given the leering, uncomfortable comedy in his talk show parody Between Two Ferns, and the fact that Phillips is part of the equation, that could be a suitable channel for the persona that Galifianakis crafted in his stand-up routines over the last few years. Or it could just become a broad, silly waste of time.
Due Date sounds less likely, unless it somehow gets reworked as a Hangover sequel: THR describes it as a story of a slacker on a road trip with an uptight businessman, with a baby worked in as subplot. Far too much like The Hangover, really, at least based on the logline. There aren’t any significant details on Say Uncle, so I’ll leave off speculating on that. It’s probably a good sign that he didn’t sign right onto a couple of pictures as The HAngover started to become huge, and that he’s still apparently circling films. Let’s just hope that, after crafting a weird and unpredictable comic persona, Galifianakis doesn’t just abandon it for the easy paycheck.
First off, his next move is already made — as we’ve reported, he’s co-starring in the HBO series Bored to Death opposite Jason Schwartzman. He’s in Youth in Revolt, Rogue’s Gallery and a couple other projects that are near completion. So after that, THR mentions three possibilities: Man-Witch, the Todd Phillips film that Jack Black abandoned last summer, Due Date, also with Philips, and Say Uncle.
Man-Witch sounded awful when it came up as a possible project for Black last year; Galifianakis would play a guy who discovers he has supernatural talents, which leads him to attend an all-girls witch school. Given the leering, uncomfortable comedy in his talk show parody Between Two Ferns, and the fact that Phillips is part of the equation, that could be a suitable channel for the persona that Galifianakis crafted in his stand-up routines over the last few years. Or it could just become a broad, silly waste of time.
Due Date sounds less likely, unless it somehow gets reworked as a Hangover sequel: THR describes it as a story of a slacker on a road trip with an uptight businessman, with a baby worked in as subplot. Far too much like The Hangover, really, at least based on the logline. There aren’t any significant details on Say Uncle, so I’ll leave off speculating on that. It’s probably a good sign that he didn’t sign right onto a couple of pictures as The HAngover started to become huge, and that he’s still apparently circling films. Let’s just hope that, after crafting a weird and unpredictable comic persona, Galifianakis doesn’t just abandon it for the easy paycheck.
And here I thought the Blade franchise was dead in the water after Blade Trinity’s abysmal failure. Stephen Dorff, who played the villain Deacon Frost
And here I thought the Blade franchise was dead in the water after Blade Trinity’s abysmal failure. Stephen Dorff, who played the villain Deacon Frost in the first film, mentioned to the Sunday Mail last year that a prequel trilogy spearheaded by Blade director Stephen Norrington was in the works:
It will be a prequel to the Blade movies, Deacon’s story. It’s a new trilogy the director has created. It will be cool. We hope to shoot the first film next year. Frost is a character I have never been able to shake.
Without further confirmation from Norrington, we’ve pretty much treated the news as rumor, but today he admitted to Comics2Film that a prequel film is indeed in the works (as soon as he finishes his Crow reboot). Norrington mentions that the project isn’t exactly like Dorff described, but it’s close. He goes on to say that it “has evolved into a very interesting story,” and that “the linkage to Blade is still big in the equation.”
Norrington has had it tough since the first Blade in 1998. He went on to direct The League of Extraordinary Gentleman, an experience that turned him off of the movie making business for several years. His remake of The Crow will be his first project since 2003. Dorff has appeared in various roles since Blade, but nothing has been as successful with mainstream viewers.
While this project is in such early stages that it could probably fall apart at any moment, it’s an interesting prospect. Norrington managed to turn what could have been a throwaway comic adaptation into a memorable action film that also helped jump start the comic book film frenzy. I’m not the only fan that came away soured by Blade Trinity, and this sounds like a good chance to reboot the franchise. I don’t suspect we’ll see much of Wesley Snipes, though given Blade’s connection to Frost I wouldn’t be surprised if we see the character in child or teenage form.
It will be a prequel to the Blade movies, Deacon’s story. It’s a new trilogy the director has created. It will be cool. We hope to shoot the first film next year. Frost is a character I have never been able to shake.
Without further confirmation from Norrington, we’ve pretty much treated the news as rumor, but today he admitted to Comics2Film that a prequel film is indeed in the works (as soon as he finishes his Crow reboot). Norrington mentions that the project isn’t exactly like Dorff described, but it’s close. He goes on to say that it “has evolved into a very interesting story,” and that “the linkage to Blade is still big in the equation.”
Norrington has had it tough since the first Blade in 1998. He went on to direct The League of Extraordinary Gentleman, an experience that turned him off of the movie making business for several years. His remake of The Crow will be his first project since 2003. Dorff has appeared in various roles since Blade, but nothing has been as successful with mainstream viewers.
While this project is in such early stages that it could probably fall apart at any moment, it’s an interesting prospect. Norrington managed to turn what could have been a throwaway comic adaptation into a memorable action film that also helped jump start the comic book film frenzy. I’m not the only fan that came away soured by Blade Trinity, and this sounds like a good chance to reboot the franchise. I don’t suspect we’ll see much of Wesley Snipes, though given Blade’s connection to Frost I wouldn’t be surprised if we see the character in child or teenage form.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Major League 4 In The Works
Will Wild Thing return to the plate for another at-bat? Bob Uecker revealed while chatting up the game at Wrigley stadium last week that he’s recently had contact from the creative team behind the first three Major League films, and that they’re developing a Major League 4.
For those who might not remember, Uecker played commentator Harry Doyle in the original 1989 film, which was about a loser underdog baseball team which becomes a World Series contender much to the surprise of their manager, who was betting on their failure. The last film in the series, Major League: Back to the Minors, followed Gus (Scott Bakula) as he became the manager for a minor league team.
He later retired to the box where he proceeded to chat up the game, but also his involvement in the “Major League” films. Uecker confirmed that a “Major League 4″ isin the works. He’s apparently had contact from the creative team behind the first three films. And apparently it’s not the first time Uecker has mentioned it in recent weeks. It was poorly received by critics (22% on Rotten Tomatoes), fans (4.0 out of 10 on IMDb) and made only $3.55 million at the box office (compared to $30.6 million that the sequel made, or nearly $50 million of the original).
But this year is the twentieth anniversary of the original film, which must have gotten some executive at Warner Bros thinking. More likely than not, this film will be a direct-to-dvd sequel, as Warner Bros has set up an entire division focused on the development and production of home video sequels of past franchise films. The only good news is that with most of the stars far out of the limelight, fans might get treated to a reunion of sorts, and not just one of these remake/quasi-sequel DVD productions with completely new actors.
However, I wouldn’t expect Charlie Sheen to reprise the role of Rick ‘Wild Thing’ Vaughn. Sheen didn’t return for the last film, and this would likely be an even smaller production.
For those who might not remember, Uecker played commentator Harry Doyle in the original 1989 film, which was about a loser underdog baseball team which becomes a World Series contender much to the surprise of their manager, who was betting on their failure. The last film in the series, Major League: Back to the Minors, followed Gus (Scott Bakula) as he became the manager for a minor league team.
He later retired to the box where he proceeded to chat up the game, but also his involvement in the “Major League” films. Uecker confirmed that a “Major League 4″ isin the works. He’s apparently had contact from the creative team behind the first three films. And apparently it’s not the first time Uecker has mentioned it in recent weeks. It was poorly received by critics (22% on Rotten Tomatoes), fans (4.0 out of 10 on IMDb) and made only $3.55 million at the box office (compared to $30.6 million that the sequel made, or nearly $50 million of the original).
But this year is the twentieth anniversary of the original film, which must have gotten some executive at Warner Bros thinking. More likely than not, this film will be a direct-to-dvd sequel, as Warner Bros has set up an entire division focused on the development and production of home video sequels of past franchise films. The only good news is that with most of the stars far out of the limelight, fans might get treated to a reunion of sorts, and not just one of these remake/quasi-sequel DVD productions with completely new actors.
However, I wouldn’t expect Charlie Sheen to reprise the role of Rick ‘Wild Thing’ Vaughn. Sheen didn’t return for the last film, and this would likely be an even smaller production.
Harrison Ford Set for Indiana Jones 5? 2011 Release Date Planned?
Is development on a fifth Indiana Jones film further along than we think? CBS’s The Insider claims that Harrison Ford is set to return as Indy for another adventure, which won’t “start until next year, and it will not be released before 2011, when the star will be 69.”
Lets keep in mind, The Insider isn’t exactly the best source for information. They’re one of those gossipy television show like Entertainment Tonight. Their Internet website cites unnamed sources for the information. And aside from the tentative shoot and release dates, what does the source say?
“Harrison has kept himself in good shape and could still do a lot of the stunts in the last film.”
Back in mid June, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull star Shia LaBeouf told the BBC that Steven Spielberg had “cracked a story on [Indiana Jones 5] before I left and I think they’re gearing that up.” So, who knows? It is possible. I’ll believe it when its officially announced. Lets just hope that Spielberg keeps Lucas away from the story meetings this time around.
Lets keep in mind, The Insider isn’t exactly the best source for information. They’re one of those gossipy television show like Entertainment Tonight. Their Internet website cites unnamed sources for the information. And aside from the tentative shoot and release dates, what does the source say?
“Harrison has kept himself in good shape and could still do a lot of the stunts in the last film.”
Back in mid June, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull star Shia LaBeouf told the BBC that Steven Spielberg had “cracked a story on [Indiana Jones 5] before I left and I think they’re gearing that up.” So, who knows? It is possible. I’ll believe it when its officially announced. Lets just hope that Spielberg keeps Lucas away from the story meetings this time around.
The TJ Hooker Movie Is Moving Forward
Stay with this story for the frightening clue that the TJ Hooker movie is actually going to star William Shatner. It’s worth it for the shudder factor.
Variety have named Chuck Russell as the director out in the lead for the TJ Hooker gig. The screenplay is being written by Brent Maddock and SS Wilson, who previously took up pens for Tremors, Short Circuit and Ghost Dad. While the 80s TV series was a straight up cop action drama, his movie is being pegged as a comedy, perhaps inevitably.
The plot details available from Variety are vague but perhaps very telling, revealing that the story “focuses on the relationship between the title character and his father”. There was no father in the original set-up, so I think I can sniff out the gimmick here. This new TJ Hooker will be, I guess, ‘the next generation’. My hunch is that Shatner will return as Thomas Jefferson Hooker, with a younger, comedic actor cast in the role of TJ Jr. This will, effectively, prevent the film from being a remake adaptation and turn it into a sequel instead. I’d say there’s also a chance that they’ll finally end up solving (or re-solving?) the murder of TJ Hooker Sr.’s partner.
I expect that in the filmmaker’s dreams they’d wind up with Ben Stiller as Hooker mk2, though Seann William Scott seems like a more reasonable bet. Perhaps they can get Michael Rappaport in to audition for a bad guy, at least. Of course, this is all supposition and True Romance jokes on my part, but I’m stacking shinies on Shatner’s involvement. He certainly seems keen to remain in the orbit of his TV franchises and, over here at least, he’s definitely still seen with a lot of sentimental nostalgia.
The last time Maddock and Wilson translated a TV drama into big screen comedy, we ended up with Wild Wild West. It doesn’t bode well, does it?
Variety have named Chuck Russell as the director out in the lead for the TJ Hooker gig. The screenplay is being written by Brent Maddock and SS Wilson, who previously took up pens for Tremors, Short Circuit and Ghost Dad. While the 80s TV series was a straight up cop action drama, his movie is being pegged as a comedy, perhaps inevitably.
The plot details available from Variety are vague but perhaps very telling, revealing that the story “focuses on the relationship between the title character and his father”. There was no father in the original set-up, so I think I can sniff out the gimmick here. This new TJ Hooker will be, I guess, ‘the next generation’. My hunch is that Shatner will return as Thomas Jefferson Hooker, with a younger, comedic actor cast in the role of TJ Jr. This will, effectively, prevent the film from being a remake adaptation and turn it into a sequel instead. I’d say there’s also a chance that they’ll finally end up solving (or re-solving?) the murder of TJ Hooker Sr.’s partner.
I expect that in the filmmaker’s dreams they’d wind up with Ben Stiller as Hooker mk2, though Seann William Scott seems like a more reasonable bet. Perhaps they can get Michael Rappaport in to audition for a bad guy, at least. Of course, this is all supposition and True Romance jokes on my part, but I’m stacking shinies on Shatner’s involvement. He certainly seems keen to remain in the orbit of his TV franchises and, over here at least, he’s definitely still seen with a lot of sentimental nostalgia.
The last time Maddock and Wilson translated a TV drama into big screen comedy, we ended up with Wild Wild West. It doesn’t bode well, does it?
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs Dominates Overseas Box Office
20th Century Fox's Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs dominated the international box office this weekend, earning an estimated $148 million from 11,652 screens in 101 markets. The worldwide total for "Dawn of the Dinosaurs" is $215.5 million.
The opening-weekend total set an overseas record for an animation film and was the sixth-biggest for any film. It also is the largest foreign introduction of a 3D title.
The threequel set overseas records for biggest weekend openings in 16 markets including Russia, Mexico and Brazil. Opening-weekend records for an animation title were set in 11 other territories including France, India and Greece.
The huge foreign opening more than doubled the $67.5 million No. 1 debut of the previous installment, 2006's Ice Age: The Meltdown.
DreamWorks/Paramount's Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen came in at second place with $55.3 million from 9,546 locations in 62 territories.
Since it opened internationally June 19, director Michael Bay's sequel has grossed $298 million overseas, just $91 million shy of the $389 million the 2007 original earned in its entire foreign run. The sequel's worldwide total is $591.5 million.
The opening-weekend total set an overseas record for an animation film and was the sixth-biggest for any film. It also is the largest foreign introduction of a 3D title.
The threequel set overseas records for biggest weekend openings in 16 markets including Russia, Mexico and Brazil. Opening-weekend records for an animation title were set in 11 other territories including France, India and Greece.
The huge foreign opening more than doubled the $67.5 million No. 1 debut of the previous installment, 2006's Ice Age: The Meltdown.
DreamWorks/Paramount's Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen came in at second place with $55.3 million from 9,546 locations in 62 territories.
Since it opened internationally June 19, director Michael Bay's sequel has grossed $298 million overseas, just $91 million shy of the $389 million the 2007 original earned in its entire foreign run. The sequel's worldwide total is $591.5 million.
Turkoglu makes verbal commitment to Raptors
An already crazy free agent period in the NBA got downright bizarre on Friday, with the supposed sure deal between Orlando free agent forward Hedo Turkoglu and the Portland Trail Blazers falling apart late in the afternoon, and the veteran, late Friday evening, making a verbal commitment to the Toronto Raptors on a five-year deal that will pay him in excess of $60 million, according to league sources.
Turkoglu's change of heart -- he was in Portland Thursday and Friday, meeting with team officials along with his agent, Lon Babby -- came after the Raptors decided to do what they had been reluctant to do until then -- renounce their rights to several of their own free agents, including forward Shawn Marion and guards Anthony Parker and Carlos Delfino, in order to create the more than $10 million in cap room necessary to make a superior offer to Portland's.
A league source divulged late Friday that Portland's offer to Turkoglu was actually $57 million over five years, not the $50 million that has been reported. But by deciding to renounce their rights to the free agents, the Raptors can give Turkoglu a deal averaging more than $12 million annually. They only have a little more than $48 million committed for next season, including the first-year salary of rookie swingman DeMar DeRozan, taken ninth overall.
The final amount of the deal won't be known until the league officially sets the salary cap figure for the 2009-10 season. The cap is expected to drop from its current $58.7 million, though perhaps not as much as teams had initially feared. A source with knowledge of the auditing process currently underway between the league and the Players' Association that will determine next year's cap figure said this week that the cap may fall by less than $1 million.
Earlier Friday, ESPN.com reported that Turkoglu had reached verbal agreement on a deal with the Blazers, and numerous other media outlets reported the same thing within minutes. But a Portland team official cautioned TNT's David Aldridge later in the day that a deal was not yet done, and after several hours of discussions between the team, Turkoglu and Babby left the Blazers' facility. Within a couple of hours, Turkoglu had committed to Toronto.
In the end, Turkoglu, who spent the last two days in Portland, seemingly with every intention of agreeing to terms on a deal, simply changed his mind, deciding that he and his family would be more comfortable in Toronto, with its international makeup and large Turkish population. When the Blazers realized that Toronto had a superior offer on the table, they didn't try to change Turkoglu's mind, disappointed that Turkoglu didn't want to take a little less money in order to play with a better team.
"He won't be coming" to Portland, a league source said late Friday, closing all doors to a potential revisiting of the issue after the Fourth of July weekend. The Raptors looked into keeping Delfino, the guard who left Toronto last summer to sign a lucrative deal with a Russian team. But Delfino wants to come back to the NBA, and Toronto had a strong interest in bringing him back; he was considered a key part of the team's attempt to bring more talent to surround All-Star forward Chris Bosh. Bosh can terminate the last year of his contract next summer and become an unrestricted free agent. But Delfino had to go, too, though a source indicated late Friday that the Raptors may explore a sign-and-trade deal with Orlando that would send Delfino to the Magic.
Before Turkoglu's change of heart, numerous league sources believed early Friday afternoon that the Raptors had reached an agreement on a three-year extension worth $24 million with Marion, who was acquired from Miami in February in a package for forward Jermaine O'Neal. But a Raptors source categorically denied that Friday afternoon.
The Blazers had cleared a little more than $8 million in cap space to sign Turkoglu, whose veteran presence and outstanding playoff performance for Orlando this year was exactly what Portland management thought could most help its core of young, talented -- but inexperienced -- players. The Blazers made the postseason this year for the first time in six years, falling in the first round to Houston. But their future is bright, with All-Star guard Brandon Roy, forward LaMarcus Aldridge and center Greg Oden all under 25.
Now, Portland will have to go in a different direction. The Blazers could, potentially, become players for another multiple-use forward like the Lakers' Lamar Odom, who has been expected to ultimately re-sign in Los Angeles. Or they could try to sign one of several veteran free agent point guards, from Dallas' Jason Kidd -- whom Portland has long coveted -- Philadelphia's Andre Miller or Atlanta's Mike Bibby. Bibby was, according to league sources, close to re-signing with Atlanta on Friday, and Kidd was taking the weekend to decide between three-year offers from the Mavericks and the Knicks, with Dallas in the driver's seat.
However, the Blazers feel that consistent perimeter shooting is a must for whomever they add, which would eliminate all the point guards other than Bibby, and make Odom less of a fit. That was why they quickly zeroed in on Turkoglu, a career 38.5 percent shooter from three-point range who shot almost 39 percent behind the arc in this year's postseason. Almost none of the remaining significant free agents available are great shooters; among the better ones is Denver forward Linas Kleiza -- whom, ironically, Toronto has been working hard on signing.
Turkoglu opted out of the final year of his six-year, $36 million deal with the Magic, which would have paid him $7.34 million in 2009, after the Finals. While the Magic said it would pay the luxury tax in order to keep the team together, Turkoglu's desire for $10 million annually was far too much for Orlando to bear, and the Magic quickly went to work, acquiring Vince Carter from the Nets on draft day. Carter's remaining three years and $51.9 million in salary precluded any hope of a Turkoglu re-signing in Orlando.
Signed by Orlando as a free agent in 2004, Turkoglu had gradually assumed a leadership role on the Magic, winning the league's Most Improved Player award last season. This past season, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.9 assists, and after Jameer Nelson was lost for four months with a shoulder injury, Turkoglu assumed much more command of the ball. Down the stretch of games, it was Turkoglu who ran screen-and-roll plays with Dwight Howard, either taking last-second shots himself or creating for others.
He hit the game-winning shot against the 76ers in the first round, in the key Game 4, with Orlando down two games to one. Against Cleveland in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals, he temporarily gave the Magic a lead with one second left after hitting a jumper, only to see LeBron James knock in a three-pointer at the buzzer. He had more good moments against the Lakers in the Finals.
Along with possibly losing Turkoglu, the Magic may lose backup center Marcin Gortat, who has agreed to an offer sheet with the Dallas Mavericks. The sheet can't officially be delivered until next week, and Orlando would have seven days to match it upon receipt. But general manager Otis Smith told the Orlando Sentinel Friday that he did not think he'd be inclined to match an offer to Gortat for the full mid-level exception.
Turkoglu's change of heart -- he was in Portland Thursday and Friday, meeting with team officials along with his agent, Lon Babby -- came after the Raptors decided to do what they had been reluctant to do until then -- renounce their rights to several of their own free agents, including forward Shawn Marion and guards Anthony Parker and Carlos Delfino, in order to create the more than $10 million in cap room necessary to make a superior offer to Portland's.
A league source divulged late Friday that Portland's offer to Turkoglu was actually $57 million over five years, not the $50 million that has been reported. But by deciding to renounce their rights to the free agents, the Raptors can give Turkoglu a deal averaging more than $12 million annually. They only have a little more than $48 million committed for next season, including the first-year salary of rookie swingman DeMar DeRozan, taken ninth overall.
The final amount of the deal won't be known until the league officially sets the salary cap figure for the 2009-10 season. The cap is expected to drop from its current $58.7 million, though perhaps not as much as teams had initially feared. A source with knowledge of the auditing process currently underway between the league and the Players' Association that will determine next year's cap figure said this week that the cap may fall by less than $1 million.
Earlier Friday, ESPN.com reported that Turkoglu had reached verbal agreement on a deal with the Blazers, and numerous other media outlets reported the same thing within minutes. But a Portland team official cautioned TNT's David Aldridge later in the day that a deal was not yet done, and after several hours of discussions between the team, Turkoglu and Babby left the Blazers' facility. Within a couple of hours, Turkoglu had committed to Toronto.
In the end, Turkoglu, who spent the last two days in Portland, seemingly with every intention of agreeing to terms on a deal, simply changed his mind, deciding that he and his family would be more comfortable in Toronto, with its international makeup and large Turkish population. When the Blazers realized that Toronto had a superior offer on the table, they didn't try to change Turkoglu's mind, disappointed that Turkoglu didn't want to take a little less money in order to play with a better team.
"He won't be coming" to Portland, a league source said late Friday, closing all doors to a potential revisiting of the issue after the Fourth of July weekend. The Raptors looked into keeping Delfino, the guard who left Toronto last summer to sign a lucrative deal with a Russian team. But Delfino wants to come back to the NBA, and Toronto had a strong interest in bringing him back; he was considered a key part of the team's attempt to bring more talent to surround All-Star forward Chris Bosh. Bosh can terminate the last year of his contract next summer and become an unrestricted free agent. But Delfino had to go, too, though a source indicated late Friday that the Raptors may explore a sign-and-trade deal with Orlando that would send Delfino to the Magic.
Before Turkoglu's change of heart, numerous league sources believed early Friday afternoon that the Raptors had reached an agreement on a three-year extension worth $24 million with Marion, who was acquired from Miami in February in a package for forward Jermaine O'Neal. But a Raptors source categorically denied that Friday afternoon.
The Blazers had cleared a little more than $8 million in cap space to sign Turkoglu, whose veteran presence and outstanding playoff performance for Orlando this year was exactly what Portland management thought could most help its core of young, talented -- but inexperienced -- players. The Blazers made the postseason this year for the first time in six years, falling in the first round to Houston. But their future is bright, with All-Star guard Brandon Roy, forward LaMarcus Aldridge and center Greg Oden all under 25.
Now, Portland will have to go in a different direction. The Blazers could, potentially, become players for another multiple-use forward like the Lakers' Lamar Odom, who has been expected to ultimately re-sign in Los Angeles. Or they could try to sign one of several veteran free agent point guards, from Dallas' Jason Kidd -- whom Portland has long coveted -- Philadelphia's Andre Miller or Atlanta's Mike Bibby. Bibby was, according to league sources, close to re-signing with Atlanta on Friday, and Kidd was taking the weekend to decide between three-year offers from the Mavericks and the Knicks, with Dallas in the driver's seat.
However, the Blazers feel that consistent perimeter shooting is a must for whomever they add, which would eliminate all the point guards other than Bibby, and make Odom less of a fit. That was why they quickly zeroed in on Turkoglu, a career 38.5 percent shooter from three-point range who shot almost 39 percent behind the arc in this year's postseason. Almost none of the remaining significant free agents available are great shooters; among the better ones is Denver forward Linas Kleiza -- whom, ironically, Toronto has been working hard on signing.
Turkoglu opted out of the final year of his six-year, $36 million deal with the Magic, which would have paid him $7.34 million in 2009, after the Finals. While the Magic said it would pay the luxury tax in order to keep the team together, Turkoglu's desire for $10 million annually was far too much for Orlando to bear, and the Magic quickly went to work, acquiring Vince Carter from the Nets on draft day. Carter's remaining three years and $51.9 million in salary precluded any hope of a Turkoglu re-signing in Orlando.
Signed by Orlando as a free agent in 2004, Turkoglu had gradually assumed a leadership role on the Magic, winning the league's Most Improved Player award last season. This past season, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.9 assists, and after Jameer Nelson was lost for four months with a shoulder injury, Turkoglu assumed much more command of the ball. Down the stretch of games, it was Turkoglu who ran screen-and-roll plays with Dwight Howard, either taking last-second shots himself or creating for others.
He hit the game-winning shot against the 76ers in the first round, in the key Game 4, with Orlando down two games to one. Against Cleveland in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals, he temporarily gave the Magic a lead with one second left after hitting a jumper, only to see LeBron James knock in a three-pointer at the buzzer. He had more good moments against the Lakers in the Finals.
Along with possibly losing Turkoglu, the Magic may lose backup center Marcin Gortat, who has agreed to an offer sheet with the Dallas Mavericks. The sheet can't officially be delivered until next week, and Orlando would have seven days to match it upon receipt. But general manager Otis Smith told the Orlando Sentinel Friday that he did not think he'd be inclined to match an offer to Gortat for the full mid-level exception.
Phil Jackson says he'll return to Lakers
Phil Jackson will return to coach the Los Angeles Lakers next season, getting a clean bill of health following a record championship season.
The Hall of Fame coach turns 64 in September and said on the team's Web site Friday he got the go-ahead for another season after consulting the team doctor.
Jackson led the Lakers to their 15th NBA championship and his 10th title in June, breaking the mark he shared with the late Boston Celtics coach Red Auerbach.
"I feel confident that I can gainfully pursue an NBA season with another long playoff postseason," he said. "All things point to go!"
He signed a two-year contract extension last season and holds the option on a second year.
Last season, Jackson missed two West Coast road games because of pain and swelling in his lower legs caused by plantar fasciitis, a problem he had checked out. He blamed late-night flights that aggravated the condition.
He has undergone two hip replacement operations since October 2006 -- using a cane at various times -- and walks with a noticeable hitch in his step. He underwent an angioplasty in 2003 to open a clogged artery in his heart.
Jackson became the Lakers' coach in 1999, and guided the team to NBA titles in each of his first three seasons. He left following the 2003-04 season but returned the following season.
Jackson coached the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s. His .705 regular-season winning percentage is tops in league history and his 1,041 victories are sixth best.
The Hall of Fame coach turns 64 in September and said on the team's Web site Friday he got the go-ahead for another season after consulting the team doctor.
Jackson led the Lakers to their 15th NBA championship and his 10th title in June, breaking the mark he shared with the late Boston Celtics coach Red Auerbach.
"I feel confident that I can gainfully pursue an NBA season with another long playoff postseason," he said. "All things point to go!"
He signed a two-year contract extension last season and holds the option on a second year.
Last season, Jackson missed two West Coast road games because of pain and swelling in his lower legs caused by plantar fasciitis, a problem he had checked out. He blamed late-night flights that aggravated the condition.
He has undergone two hip replacement operations since October 2006 -- using a cane at various times -- and walks with a noticeable hitch in his step. He underwent an angioplasty in 2003 to open a clogged artery in his heart.
Jackson became the Lakers' coach in 1999, and guided the team to NBA titles in each of his first three seasons. He left following the 2003-04 season but returned the following season.
Jackson coached the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s. His .705 regular-season winning percentage is tops in league history and his 1,041 victories are sixth best.
Hope of title leads Wallace to commit to Celtics
For Rasheed Wallace, the lure of playing with Boston's superstar-laden lineup was just too much to pass up.
The Celtics have reached an agreement with Wallace on a two-year deal for the mid-level exception, which was $5.585 million last season and is expected to rise for the 2009-10 season. Figures for all salary cap exceptions and the cap itself will be finalized this week after the league and the Players' Association complete their audit of league finances.
Wallace played the last six seasons with the Detroit Pistons, where he won an NBA championship in 2004. He heads to a Celtics team loaded with veterans such as Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce, and hoping to make at least one more title run.
Wallace was in the process of scheduling visits to San Antonio, Orlando and Dallas this week. But the Celtics' team recruiting, with Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, coach Doc Rivers, general manager Danny Ainge and majority owner Wyc Grousbeck all coming to visit Wallace in the Detroit suburbs last week moved the 35-year-old into action sooner than expected.
The notion of playing with three All-Stars, including a certain Hall of Famer in Garnett and a possible one in Pierce, plus the opportunity to compete for a championship solidified Wallace's desire to play for the Celtics.
"He decided to forgo the other trips and stuff and decided he's going to Boston," Wallace's agent, Bill Strickland said late Sunday evening. "When he sat down and thought about it some over this weekend, he thought Boston, in his mind, was the best fit for him, in terms of his skill set and what they already had. He decided, 'why waste time? I don't have to hassle over it.'"
Wallace has averaged 15 points and 6.9 rebounds in 14 NBA seasons. He averaged 12 points and 7.4 rebounds last season.
The Celtics have reached an agreement with Wallace on a two-year deal for the mid-level exception, which was $5.585 million last season and is expected to rise for the 2009-10 season. Figures for all salary cap exceptions and the cap itself will be finalized this week after the league and the Players' Association complete their audit of league finances.
Wallace played the last six seasons with the Detroit Pistons, where he won an NBA championship in 2004. He heads to a Celtics team loaded with veterans such as Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce, and hoping to make at least one more title run.
Wallace was in the process of scheduling visits to San Antonio, Orlando and Dallas this week. But the Celtics' team recruiting, with Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, coach Doc Rivers, general manager Danny Ainge and majority owner Wyc Grousbeck all coming to visit Wallace in the Detroit suburbs last week moved the 35-year-old into action sooner than expected.
The notion of playing with three All-Stars, including a certain Hall of Famer in Garnett and a possible one in Pierce, plus the opportunity to compete for a championship solidified Wallace's desire to play for the Celtics.
"He decided to forgo the other trips and stuff and decided he's going to Boston," Wallace's agent, Bill Strickland said late Sunday evening. "When he sat down and thought about it some over this weekend, he thought Boston, in his mind, was the best fit for him, in terms of his skill set and what they already had. He decided, 'why waste time? I don't have to hassle over it.'"
Wallace has averaged 15 points and 6.9 rebounds in 14 NBA seasons. He averaged 12 points and 7.4 rebounds last season.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
WB Picks Up Rights to Midway Video Games
Variety is reporting that Warner Bros. has picked up most of Midway Games' assets in a bankruptcy court fire sale to the tune of $33 million, including the rights to some of their most popular video games like "Mortal Kombat," "Spy Hunter" and "Joust."
The Chicago-based video game developer started manufacturing arcade video games over 35 years ago with games like "Space Invaders" and "Pac-Man" before moving their focus to console video games. They declared bankruptcy earlier this year and Warner Bros. made a bid for the properties in May that was declined, as Midway chose to put out a call for other bids and hold an auction for its properties. Last week, a Delaware bankruptcy court judge okayed the deal after the initial objections were resolved.
Warner Bros. wouldn't disclose to Variety what their plans might be for the properties, although they decided not to buy Midway development studios in San Diego and England. Mortal Kombat already spawned two feature films as well as animated and live action television shows, but attempts at relaunching the franchise at New Line (now folded into Warner Bros.) have generally faltered, while a Spy Hunter movie has been in development hell at Universal for many years with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson attached. The last update had Paul W.S. Anderson, director of the first Mortal Kombat, taking over development of Spy Hunter, after a long line of Hollywood writers have tried to tackle a script. It's also interesting to note that the latest incarnation of the "Mortal Kombat" video game had them fighting characters from the DC Universe, of which the film rights belong to Warner Bros.
Let us know in the comments what you think of this new development. Do you want to see another "Mortal Kombat" movie or finally see that long-discussed Spy Hunter movie or even (shudder) a possible movie based on "Joust" or "Ms. Pac Man"? Let us know!
The Chicago-based video game developer started manufacturing arcade video games over 35 years ago with games like "Space Invaders" and "Pac-Man" before moving their focus to console video games. They declared bankruptcy earlier this year and Warner Bros. made a bid for the properties in May that was declined, as Midway chose to put out a call for other bids and hold an auction for its properties. Last week, a Delaware bankruptcy court judge okayed the deal after the initial objections were resolved.
Warner Bros. wouldn't disclose to Variety what their plans might be for the properties, although they decided not to buy Midway development studios in San Diego and England. Mortal Kombat already spawned two feature films as well as animated and live action television shows, but attempts at relaunching the franchise at New Line (now folded into Warner Bros.) have generally faltered, while a Spy Hunter movie has been in development hell at Universal for many years with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson attached. The last update had Paul W.S. Anderson, director of the first Mortal Kombat, taking over development of Spy Hunter, after a long line of Hollywood writers have tried to tackle a script. It's also interesting to note that the latest incarnation of the "Mortal Kombat" video game had them fighting characters from the DC Universe, of which the film rights belong to Warner Bros.
Let us know in the comments what you think of this new development. Do you want to see another "Mortal Kombat" movie or finally see that long-discussed Spy Hunter movie or even (shudder) a possible movie based on "Joust" or "Ms. Pac Man"? Let us know!
Ice Age & Transformers Tie Up the 4th!
The ComingSoon.net Box Office Report has been updated with studio estimates for the weekend.
If today's Wimbledon Men's Finals wasn't exciting enough, the box office estimates for the Top 10 movies over 4th of July weekend included two dead heat ties, and for the first time ever, one of those was for first place! Over the last few months, we've seen a number of close calls for first place and even one weekend where first place changed between the Sunday estimates and Monday actuals, but this weekend, the studios couldn't agree which movie won, as both Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (20th Century Fox) and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (DreamWorks) ended up with an estimated gross of $42.5 million for the three-day holiday weekend. Opening on Wednesday with $13.8 million in 4,038 conventional and digital 3D theaters, the "Ice Age" 3-quel was thought to be able to topple Michael Bay's own sequel, but on Friday, "Transformers" pulled slightly ahead then took a bigger plunge on the 4th of July proper, allowing "Ice Age" to catch up.
"Ice Age" took in an estimated $67.5 million in its first five days, which is just slightly less than the previous installment, Ice Age: the Meltdown grossed in its opening weekend. Meanwhile, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has grossed roughly $294 million in twelve days and will remain behind The Dark Knight in the race to $300 million, which it should cross tomorrow.
Chances are that the actual box office receipts will decide the clear winner of the weekend. It would be a big coup for "Ice Age" to take down Michael Bay, who has been responsible for two previous 4th of July blockbusters. Oddly, the two movies are also tied for the tenth spot in terms of the top grossers for the 4th of July weekend.
Meanwhile, Michael Mann's gangster flick Public Enemies (Universal), pitting Christian Bale against Johnny Depp, also opened on Wednesday with roughly $10 million, then continued to hold up with $26.7 million in 3,334 theaters over the holiday weekend, a respectable $7,850 per site and $41 million in its first five days.
With the smallest percentage drop in the Top 10, the Sandra Bullock-Ryan Reynolds rom-com The Proposal (Disney/Touchstone) took fourth place with $12.8 million and a running total of $94 million, based on a reported production budget of $40 million. It once again remained ahead of Todd Phillips sleeper comedy hit The Hangover (Warner Bros.), which managed to crossed $200 million over the 4th of July weekend, adding another $10.4 million for fifth place. The latter is currently the ninth highest grossing R-rated movie ever and by next week, it should pass Wedding Crashers (also starring Bradley Cooper!) as the 2nd highest grossing R-rated comedy .
Disney•Pixar's animated-adventure Up reached its own milestone, adding another $6.6 million to its own gross to surpass The Incredibles as the 2nd highest grossing Pixar movie with a total of roughly $265 million.
In its second weekend, Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper (New Line/WB), starring Cameron Diaz, plummeted 58% to seventh place with $5.2 million and a total of $26 million, whilethe Sony remake of The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3, starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta, took eighth place with $2.5 million and a total of $58.5 million.
The other undetermined position of the weekend was for 9th place, as both Harold Ramis' comedy Year One (Sony) and Ben Stiller's comedy sequel Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (20th Century Fox) were considered a tie with an estimated $2.1 million. NIght at the Museum is holding well with $168 million while Ramis' comedy continues to lose business, dropping 65% in its third weekend to end up with $38 million.
The Top 10 grossed roughly $153 million, up a meager 2% from the 4th of July weekend last year when Will Smith's superhero movie Hancock won the weekend with $62.6 million over WALL•E and Wanted.
If today's Wimbledon Men's Finals wasn't exciting enough, the box office estimates for the Top 10 movies over 4th of July weekend included two dead heat ties, and for the first time ever, one of those was for first place! Over the last few months, we've seen a number of close calls for first place and even one weekend where first place changed between the Sunday estimates and Monday actuals, but this weekend, the studios couldn't agree which movie won, as both Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (20th Century Fox) and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (DreamWorks) ended up with an estimated gross of $42.5 million for the three-day holiday weekend. Opening on Wednesday with $13.8 million in 4,038 conventional and digital 3D theaters, the "Ice Age" 3-quel was thought to be able to topple Michael Bay's own sequel, but on Friday, "Transformers" pulled slightly ahead then took a bigger plunge on the 4th of July proper, allowing "Ice Age" to catch up.
"Ice Age" took in an estimated $67.5 million in its first five days, which is just slightly less than the previous installment, Ice Age: the Meltdown grossed in its opening weekend. Meanwhile, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has grossed roughly $294 million in twelve days and will remain behind The Dark Knight in the race to $300 million, which it should cross tomorrow.
Chances are that the actual box office receipts will decide the clear winner of the weekend. It would be a big coup for "Ice Age" to take down Michael Bay, who has been responsible for two previous 4th of July blockbusters. Oddly, the two movies are also tied for the tenth spot in terms of the top grossers for the 4th of July weekend.
Meanwhile, Michael Mann's gangster flick Public Enemies (Universal), pitting Christian Bale against Johnny Depp, also opened on Wednesday with roughly $10 million, then continued to hold up with $26.7 million in 3,334 theaters over the holiday weekend, a respectable $7,850 per site and $41 million in its first five days.
With the smallest percentage drop in the Top 10, the Sandra Bullock-Ryan Reynolds rom-com The Proposal (Disney/Touchstone) took fourth place with $12.8 million and a running total of $94 million, based on a reported production budget of $40 million. It once again remained ahead of Todd Phillips sleeper comedy hit The Hangover (Warner Bros.), which managed to crossed $200 million over the 4th of July weekend, adding another $10.4 million for fifth place. The latter is currently the ninth highest grossing R-rated movie ever and by next week, it should pass Wedding Crashers (also starring Bradley Cooper!) as the 2nd highest grossing R-rated comedy .
Disney•Pixar's animated-adventure Up reached its own milestone, adding another $6.6 million to its own gross to surpass The Incredibles as the 2nd highest grossing Pixar movie with a total of roughly $265 million.
In its second weekend, Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper (New Line/WB), starring Cameron Diaz, plummeted 58% to seventh place with $5.2 million and a total of $26 million, whilethe Sony remake of The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3, starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta, took eighth place with $2.5 million and a total of $58.5 million.
The other undetermined position of the weekend was for 9th place, as both Harold Ramis' comedy Year One (Sony) and Ben Stiller's comedy sequel Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (20th Century Fox) were considered a tie with an estimated $2.1 million. NIght at the Museum is holding well with $168 million while Ramis' comedy continues to lose business, dropping 65% in its third weekend to end up with $38 million.
The Top 10 grossed roughly $153 million, up a meager 2% from the 4th of July weekend last year when Will Smith's superhero movie Hancock won the weekend with $62.6 million over WALL•E and Wanted.
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