Entertainment

Andrea Riseborough has joined the cast of the Paramount+ limited series "9/12," where she will star alongside Jeremy Strong. The six-episode drama centers on the legal battle fought on behalf of first responders affected by the 9/11 attacks. Riseborough is set to portray Molly, a character described as a resilient wife deeply invested in the well-being of her family. The series aims to depict the significant legal challenges and the fight against corruption that ultimately secured justice for those who suffered health consequences after responding to the September 11th attacks. The narrative will explore the "David vs. Goliath" aspect of this legal struggle, highlighting the efforts to achieve accountability and provide support for the ailing first responders. Riseborough, an Oscar nominee for her role in "To Leslie," brings her acclaimed acting talent to this new project. The involvement of both Riseborough and Strong, known for his role in "Succession," suggests a high-caliber production for Paramount+. The series is expected to delve into the personal impact of the legal fight on the families involved, with Riseborough's character, Molly, embodying this resilience and concern. "9/12" is poised to shed light on a critical period of post-9/11 justice advocacy. The series will likely explore the complexities of the legal system and the perseverance required to expose corruption and advocate for victims. The addition of Riseborough to the ensemble cast further elevates the anticipation for this historical legal drama.

Netflix has officially announced that the second season of its action-comedy series, "The Gentlemen," will premiere on September 3. The streaming service also released a first-look teaser trailer for the upcoming season. The series, based on Guy Ritchie's 2019 film of the same name, follows Eddie Horniman as he inherits his aristocratic family's estate only to discover it's part of a vast cannabis empire. Season 2 is expected to continue Eddie's journey as he navigates the complexities of the criminal underworld while trying to maintain control of his family's legacy. The logline for the new season hints at further entanglement in the illegal operations, stating, "It’s been one year since Eddie Horniman inherited his father’s estate and discovered it was the center of a massive weed-growing operation. He’s managed to keep the lid on the family secret, but now, facing threats from within and without the aristocracy, he must embrace the world of gangster capitalism he’s always tried to avoid." The first season premiered on March 7, 2024, and quickly became a popular offering on the platform. The series stars Theo James as Eddie Horniman and Kaya Scodelario as Susie Glass, the daughter of a notorious crime lord who manages the family's drug business. The ensemble cast also includes Daniel Ings, Joely Richardson, and Vinnie Jones. The renewal for a second season was confirmed in April 2024, following strong viewership numbers for the initial eight-episode run.

American Horror Story Season 13 is set to premiere on FX and Hulu on September 24 at 6 p.m. PT. This upcoming installment will mark the return of Jessica Lange, who has not appeared in the anthology series since the 2018 season "Apocalypse." Sarah Paulson will also reprise her role as Cordelia Goode, the Supreme of the Coven. The season's cast also includes Evan Peters, among other notable actors. The series, created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, has consistently drawn a dedicated viewership with its unique blend of horror and drama. Season 13 is expected to continue the show's tradition of exploring different thematic concepts each season, though specific details about the plot or theme for this year have not yet been revealed. The involvement of Lange and Paulson, both fan favorites, is anticipated to generate significant buzz among the show's audience. FX and Hulu have been the primary platforms for "American Horror Story" in recent years, offering both live viewing and on-demand access. The dual release strategy has allowed the series to reach a broad audience across different viewing habits. The network has not yet announced further details regarding the full cast list or the specific narrative arc for Season 13, but the confirmed return of key original cast members suggests a focus on established characters or storylines. Jessica Lange's departure after "Apocalypse" left a void for many fans, and her comeback is a significant event for the series. Similarly, Sarah Paulson's character, Cordelia Goode, played a pivotal role in the "Coven" and "Apocalypse" seasons, making her return a welcome one. The anticipation for Season 13 is high, with fans eager to see how these beloved characters and new additions will contribute to the unfolding horror narrative.

Tony Award nominee Lila Neugebauer has been attached as the pilot director and executive producer for the forthcoming Netflix drama series, titled "The Retrievals." This project marks a significant collaboration, with Neugebauer bringing her directorial expertise to the series. The show is set to be showrun, written, and executive produced by Molly Smith Metzler, who is recognized for her Emmy-nominated work on "Maid" and "Sirens." Metzler's established track record in creating compelling narratives suggests a strong foundation for "The Retrievals." The series is being produced by LuckyChap, an entertainment company known for backing critically acclaimed projects. The involvement of Neugebauer, a Tony nominee for her work in theater, indicates a potential for high-quality visual storytelling and character-driven drama within the series. Her previous directorial credits include "The Beast in Me" and "Sirens," showcasing her ability to handle nuanced and impactful productions. The collaboration between Neugebauer and Metzler, coupled with LuckyChap's production backing, positions "The Retrievals" as a notable upcoming addition to Netflix's scripted content library. Further details regarding the series' plot and cast are anticipated as production progresses.

Julianne Nicholson has joined the cast of HBO's detective drama "Task" for its second season, reprising her Emmy-winning role as Lori Ross. Nicholson previously portrayed Lori Ross in the critically acclaimed HBO series "Mare of Easttown." This casting confirms a crossover between the two shows, with "Task" Season 2 now effectively serving as a continuation or extension of the "Mare of Easttown" universe. While "Task" was not explicitly linked to "Mare of Easttown" prior to this announcement, both series share the same creator and showrunner, Brad Ingelsby. Ingelsby is known for his work on "Mare of Easttown," which garnered significant critical attention and awards, including an Emmy for Nicholson's performance. The integration of Nicholson's character suggests a narrative connection that will bridge the two series. Nicholson's portrayal of Lori Ross in "Mare of Easttown" was a pivotal element of the first season's mystery and emotional core. Her return in "Task" Season 2 indicates that the new installment will delve further into the lives and relationships established in Easttown, potentially exploring new storylines that build upon the established characters and their histories. The specific plot details for "Task" Season 2 remain under wraps, but the crossover is expected to leverage the established character arcs and the gritty, character-driven storytelling that defined "Mare of Easttown."

Nickelodeon announced its "Fun-ergy Factory" experience for San Diego Comic-Con International 2026, expanding its presence beyond the convention center. The brand's 1,800-square-foot booth within the convention center will offer fans interactive challenges and photo opportunities. These attractions are inspired by popular Nickelodeon franchises, including "SpongeBob SquarePants," "Avatar: The Last Airbender," and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." The "Fun-ergy Factory" aims to provide a "slime-fueled" immersive environment for attendees. This initiative marks a significant engagement strategy for Nickelodeon at one of the largest pop culture events of the year, allowing fans to interact directly with beloved characters and worlds. The expanded footprint suggests a commitment to creating a memorable and engaging experience for a broad audience of fans, fostering a deeper connection with the network's diverse content library. The event is scheduled to take place at the San Diego Convention Center.

Jennifer Garner's new limited series, "The Five-Star Weekend," has been reviewed for its departure from typical prestige television tropes, specifically its lack of a central murder mystery. The series, which premiered recently, focuses on the interpersonal relationships and evolving dynamics among a group of friends reuniting for a weekend getaway. This approach distinguishes it from trendsetting shows like "Big Little Lies" and "The White Lotus," which often incorporate significant crime elements. The narrative centers on a group of five women who gather at a secluded beach house, exploring themes of friendship, midlife challenges, and personal growth. The review highlights the ensemble cast, which includes well-known actors, and their ability to portray nuanced emotional landscapes. Instead of relying on external conflict or suspense, the show delves into the internal struggles and shared histories of the characters, offering a more intimate and grounded viewing experience. Critics have noted that the series' strength lies in its relatable characters and the authentic portrayal of their interactions. The absence of a high-stakes plot allows for a deeper exploration of the complexities of female friendships and the individual journeys of women navigating different stages of life. The setting of a beach house provides a backdrop for both relaxation and introspection, facilitating the unfolding of personal revelations and reconciliations. "The Five-Star Weekend" is presented as a refreshing alternative in a television landscape often dominated by crime and thriller genres. The review suggests that the show's success stems from its commitment to character development and its willingness to explore everyday human experiences with sensitivity and humor. This focus on modest stakes and authentic relationships aims to resonate with audiences seeking character-driven storytelling.

Character.ai, a platform enabling users to create and interact with AI-generated characters, has launched "c.ai Series." This new initiative introduces a collection of microseries developed using characters native to the Character.ai ecosystem. The company announced the launch in a blog post on Thursday, highlighting that c.ai Series aims to provide a distinct experience compared to traditional microseries formats. The initial rollout of c.ai Series will feature content across popular genres including anime, horror, and action-adventure. Character.ai stated that this move is intended to foster a "deeper connection between fans and characters." By leveraging its existing user-generated character base, the platform seeks to offer narrative-driven content that resonates with its community. The microseries will be accessible directly within the Character.ai platform, allowing users to engage with the stories and characters in a familiar environment. This expansion into microseries production marks a significant step for Character.ai, moving beyond its core character interaction model to offer curated content. The platform's unique approach involves utilizing its AI capabilities to generate and potentially adapt these series, offering a dynamic and interactive storytelling experience. The company anticipates that c.ai Series will enhance user engagement and provide new avenues for creative expression within its community. Further details regarding specific series titles and release schedules are expected to be announced.

Paramount+ has announced that "MobLand" Season 2 will premiere on September 18. The upcoming season will consist of 10 episodes and follows reports of a fallout involving series star Tom Hardy. Paramount also released the first teaser trailer for the new season. The series, a British crime drama, is set to continue its narrative with the new installment. Specific details regarding the plot of Season 2 or the nature of the reported fallout with Tom Hardy were not immediately disclosed in the announcement. The premiere date was confirmed this week, with the teaser trailer offering a glimpse into the new episodes. The platform aims to build on the success of the first season with this new chapter of the crime drama. Further information about the cast and storyline is expected closer to the release date.

Netflix has secured exclusive rights to video episodes of two popular podcasts from the Vox Media Podcast Network: "Unexplainable" and "Switched on Pop." This deal further expands Netflix's investment in podcast content, following previous agreements with other networks. The "Unexplainable" podcast, hosted by Vox journalist and producer Noam Hassenfeld, delves into scientific mysteries and breakthroughs. The "Switched on Pop" podcast, a collaboration between Vulture and New York Magazine, offers in-depth analysis of popular music. Both podcasts are produced by Vox Media Podcast Network, which is owned by Lupa Systems, a company led by James Murdoch. This agreement signifies Netflix's ongoing strategy to diversify its content offerings by incorporating audio and video podcast formats. The streaming giant aims to attract a wider audience by leveraging the established fan bases of these popular shows. The specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it represents a significant commitment to the podcasting space. Netflix has previously partnered with other podcast creators and networks, indicating a sustained interest in this medium. The inclusion of video episodes is a key component of this strategy, allowing for a more engaging viewing experience on the Netflix platform. The company continues to explore innovative ways to capture viewer attention and expand its library of original and acquired content.

Sabrina Impacciatore, known for her roles in "The White Lotus" Season 2 and "The Paper," will co-star with Alessandro Borghi in the upcoming Italian psychological thriller "Un’Altra Madre." The film, which translates to "Another Mother," is a new Prime Original and is currently in production. "Un’Altra Madre" is set to be directed by Francesco Carrozzini, who previously worked with Borghi on the series "Supersex." The announcement of the project was made on Wednesday during Prime Video's Italy upfront presentation held in Rome. Impacciatore is slated to portray a tormented therapist in the film. The collaboration between Impacciatore and Borghi marks a significant addition to Prime Video's slate of Italian original content. The psychological thriller genre often explores complex character dynamics and suspenseful narratives, suggesting a potentially intense viewing experience for audiences. Further details regarding the plot and supporting cast are expected to be released as production progresses.

A new ranking identifies the 20 best mythological movies, drawing from Greek epics to biblical blockbusters, with the list compiled ahead of the anticipated release of Christopher Nolan's film 'Odyssey'. The ranking evaluates films based on their portrayal of myths, legends, and fables. One film highlighted is Tarsem Singh's "Immortals," which features Henry Cavill as Theseus. While the movie is noted for its striking visual style and theatrical, oppressive look, it is described as offering little deep mythological significance. Memorable imagery from the film includes the Titans imprisoned like table-football players and a campy Mount Olympus resembling a Las Vegas set. The ranking aims to provide a definitive list for enthusiasts of mythological cinema, covering a broad spectrum of stories and cinematic interpretations. The inclusion of Nolan's upcoming 'Odyssey' suggests a contemporary interest in the genre and its potential for modern storytelling. The selection criteria appear to balance visual artistry with narrative fidelity to the source myths and legends. This compilation serves as a guide to films that have successfully translated ancient narratives into compelling cinematic experiences. The focus on visual impact and thematic resonance underscores the enduring appeal of mythological stories across different cultures and historical periods. The list promises a diverse selection, catering to various tastes within the mythological film genre.

Actor and producer Seth Green has joined the advisory board of Global Gaming League (GGL), an esports entertainment company. This appointment coincides with GGL's launch of its new gaming platform, GGL Primes. The platform offers users access through both free and paid subscription tiers, aiming to provide a comprehensive esports experience. As part of the celebration for Green's integration into the organization, GGL Primes will feature a month-long event titled "Ready, Seth, Go!". This initiative is designed to be an immersive experience for users, highlighting Green's involvement and the platform's capabilities. The specific details of the event's content and engagement mechanics were not fully disclosed in the initial announcement. Global Gaming League's expansion with GGL Primes signifies a strategic move to enhance its presence in the competitive esports landscape. The company aims to leverage its new platform to attract a wider audience and provide a robust environment for gamers and fans. Green's advisory role is expected to bring valuable industry insights and creative direction to GGL's future endeavors.

Four musical parodies inspired by the television series "Heated Rivalry" are scheduled to premiere this summer, with multiple productions heading to the Edinburgh fringe festival. The creators of these musicals cite the show's unique combination of hockey action and romantic storylines as a primary source of inspiration. Dylan MarcAurele, a writer and composer, conceived the idea for a parody musical after watching the series, initially envisioning it as a small concert for friends. However, the project quickly gained momentum with the involvement of producer Alan Kliffer, leading to sold-out performances even before the script was finalized. "Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody," following a successful off-Broadway run, is now slated for the Edinburgh fringe. Producers believe the show's popularity, characterized by its explicit content and focus on gay relationships within a sports context, made it a natural subject for musical adaptation. Alan Kliffer stated that he anticipated a surge of musical adaptations from the gay community due to the series' themes. The success of the original series, which features elements such as "perky keisters, swanky hotel shags, a secret sex cottage and just a smidgeon of hockey," has evidently resonated with audiences and creators alike, prompting this wave of theatrical interpretations. The Edinburgh fringe festival will host three of these musical spoofs, highlighting the significant cultural impact of "Heated Rivalry" on the performing arts scene.

Filming for "Dune: Part Three" is underway in Abu Dhabi, with the Liwa Desert in the Western Region of the Emirate once again serving as the primary filming location for the desert planet Arrakis. The Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) released new behind-the-scenes images showcasing the production, featuring stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, alongside director Denis Villeneuve. The Liwa Desert has been a pivotal location throughout the "Dune" trilogy, providing the expansive, arid landscapes that define Arrakis, the home of the iconic sandworms. This continued use of the location highlights its effectiveness in creating the visual world of the science fiction epic. "Dune: Part Three" is the anticipated continuation of Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert's seminal science fiction novel. The first two installments, "Dune" (2021) and "Dune: Part Two" (2024), were critically acclaimed and commercially successful, with "Part Two" grossing over $711 million worldwide. The films have garnered numerous awards, including multiple Academy Awards for their technical achievements in cinematography, visual effects, and sound design. The production's return to Abu Dhabi underscores the Emirate's growing status as a significant hub for international film and television production. The ADFC has actively supported the "Dune" franchise, facilitating the logistical and creative needs of the large-scale shoot. The presence of major stars and a renowned director like Villeneuve further solidifies Abu Dhabi's appeal to the global film industry.

Bendita Film Sales has acquired the international sales rights for the upcoming feature film "Donkey Princess." This latest project comes from the acclaimed Chilean filmmaking duo Cristóbal León and Joaquín Cociña, known for their previous work. The film is slated for its world premiere in the main International Competition at the prestigious Locarno Film Festival. The acquisition marks a renewed collaboration between Bendita Film Sales and the directors León & Cociña. Bendita Film Sales previously handled the international sales for their critically recognized film, "The Wolf House." This established relationship suggests confidence in the duo's continued artistic vision and market appeal. "Donkey Princess" will compete among a curated selection of international films at the Locarno Film Festival, a significant platform for independent cinema. The festival, held annually in Locarno, Switzerland, is a key event for filmmakers, distributors, and industry professionals worldwide. The inclusion in the main competition highlights the festival's anticipation for León and Cociña's new narrative. Cristóbal León and Joaquín Cociña have garnered international attention for their distinctive cinematic style, often characterized by innovative animation techniques and thematic depth. Their previous film, "The Wolf House," received numerous accolades and was praised for its unique visual language and unsettling narrative. The announcement of "Donkey Princess" has generated considerable interest within the film industry, with anticipation building for its debut.

Cinetic Media announced this week that it has acquired the North American sales rights for the film "Manhunt." This acquisition comes as the film is slated for its world premiere in the main competition at the Locarno Film Festival, where it will contend for the prestigious Golden Leopard award. "Manhunt" is the second feature film directed by Wayne Wapeemukwa, whose previous work, "Luk'Luk'I," was recognized as the best Canadian first film. In a concurrent development, Aspect Ratio has secured the international sales rights for "Manhunt." The film's inclusion in the Locarno Film Festival's main competition highlights its potential significance within the independent film circuit. The festival is known for showcasing emerging talent and critically acclaimed international cinema, making its selection a notable achievement for Wapeemukwa and the production team. Wayne Wapeemukwa's directorial debut, "Luk'Luk'I," garnered critical attention and awards, setting expectations for his follow-up project. The acquisition by Cinetic Media and Aspect Ratio suggests strong industry confidence in "Manhunt's" commercial and artistic appeal. Further details regarding the film's plot or cast have not yet been released, but its premiere at Locarno is anticipated to generate significant buzz.

The Locarno Film Festival announced the complete lineup for its 79th edition, scheduled to take place from August 7-17, 2024. The festival will showcase 103 world premieres across its various sections. Artistic Director Giona A. Nazzaro described the selection as "an adventurous selection, full of surprises, which tackles the challenges of the present without ever sacrificing the pleasures of storytelling and entertainment." This year's program includes works from established filmmakers and emerging talents, aiming to reflect contemporary cinematic trends and diverse narrative approaches. The festival's main competition, the Concorso Internazionale, will feature 14 films, including new works from acclaimed directors. Festival regular Hong Sang-soo will present his latest film, "Nowhere to Lay My Eyes." Other notable directors with films in competition include Isabelle Huppert, who will be honored with a lifetime achievement award, and Monica Bellucci, who stars in a new film. The lineup also features performances by Caleb Landry Jones. The Piazza Grande section, a hallmark of the Locarno Festival, will screen 12 films, offering a mix of anticipated releases and auteur cinema to a large audience in the iconic open-air venue. This section is known for its blend of popular appeal and artistic merit, drawing significant international attention. The festival aims to provide a platform for cinematic innovation and dialogue, fostering a vibrant exchange between filmmakers, industry professionals, and the public. Beyond the competitive sections, Locarno will host retrospectives, masterclasses, and industry events. The festival's commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of global cinema remains a central tenet, with films hailing from numerous countries and representing a wide array of genres and styles. The 79th edition continues Locarno's tradition of celebrating cinematic art and its evolving landscape.

Netflix has released a new television adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House on the Prairie" novels, more than four decades after the original NBC series concluded its nine-season run. The new series is created by Rebecca Sonnenshine and executive produced by Trip Friendly, whose father, Ed Friendly, produced the original show. The adaptation aims to reimagine the beloved stories for a contemporary audience, blending elements of family drama with the adventurous spirit of Wilder's semi-autobiographical books. The original "Little House on the Prairie" television series, which aired from 1974 to 1983, was based on Wilder's series of children's books detailing her childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th century. This new iteration seeks to capture the essence of the Ingalls family's resilience, resourcefulness, and close-knit bonds as they navigate the challenges of frontier life. The series is expected to explore themes of community, perseverance, and the enduring strength of family in the face of adversity, drawing from the rich narrative tapestry established by Laura Ingalls Wilder's original literary works.