REVIEW: Angelina Jolie Makes a Bleak Bosnian War Romance with In the Land of Blood and Honey

In the Land of Blood and Honey isn’t actually Angelina Jolie’s first film as a director — that distinction goes to A Place in Time, a little-seen 2007 documentary showcasing life in different locations around the globe at the same moment, shot with the help of some of her famous friends, including Djimon Hounsou and Anne Hathaway. But like that film, Jolie’s narrative debut arrives surrounded by a halo of good intentions and the sense that celebrity is being used as the spoonful of sugar to make the didacticism go down. Per the activist and star’s own statement in the press notes, with this new feature she “wanted to make a film that would express, in an artistic way, [her] frustrations with the international community’s failure to intervene in conflicts in a timely and effective manner.” The conflict on-screen is the Bosnian War of the ’90s, which puts new lovers Ajla (Zana Marjanovi) and Danijel (Goran Kosti) on opposite sides of a clash that left 100,000 dead and led to accusations of genocide. Despite those austere intentions, In the Land of Blood and Honey is gratifyingly short on lectures and, interestingly, on history lessons. The drama, which was also written by Jolie, is set very specifically during the Bosnian War without delving deeply into the complications of the reasons for the bloodshed. Ajla is a Bosnian Muslim, an aspiring painter who lives with her sister; Danijel is a Bosnian Serb, a policeman whose family has a tradition of going into law enforcement. But neither is a fervent believer in the war, at least not in the beginning. They’re just shuffled off into the parts already assigned to them, Danijel taking a place as a commander in the Serbian army under his father, General Nebojsa Vukojevich (Rade erbedija, who often plays Eastern European baddies in Hollywood fare), Ajla forced into a detention center with other women who are made to wait on the Serb troops. Upon their arrival, one of the soldiers pulls a woman to the front of the group and rapes her, just to make a point, her fellow prisoners looking away as she weeps, her face shoved into the table. It’s here that Danijel and Ajla are reunited and the most compelling part of In the Land of Blood and Honey unfolds, a squirmy, dark romance in which Danijel is at once Ajla’s wooer, protector and persecutor. He tries to shield her from the abuses of the other soldiers without appearing as if he’s too attached to a Muslim woman in their eyes, and he attempts to convince her he’s not like the others when he goes out on campaigns to kill her fellow Bosniaks. “One of your Muslim friends was in my scope, and I’m thinking of you,” he tells her after choosing not to shoot a man and his child on a bridge earlier that day, and it’s unclear whether he wants gratitude or an apology. Marjanovi and Kosti have a potent on-screen chemistry together, when taken with the power dynamics at play, and they present an uncomfortable developing relationship that you can’t turn away from — when we first see it consummated, it’s immediately after another soldier has stepped on Ajla’s hand to punish her for dropping a dish, with Danijel unable to intervene on her behalf. In their desperate coupling it’s clear that Ajla has been reminded of how she needs him on her side as much as she might actually want him there. And yet, given an opportunity to escape, Alja stays. As a director, Jolie sometimes jumbles her visual construction (a firefight late in the film is difficult to follow). But she’s unfailingly generous with her leads, who are both charismatic and watchable — Kosti is handsome but sinister, while Marjanovi’s beauty is centered around her wise, steady gaze. Still, she leaves so much unsaid that we often have no idea what’s going on in the heads of the characters. As their The Night Porter-esque relationship takes new turns and encounters growing complications — Danijel is assigned elsewhere for a while, and things get worse for Alja at the compound until she runs away, though later Danijel has her brought back — it becomes less and less clear, in ways that don’t all seem intentional, what either is thinking and how sincere each is in the faux domesticity they’ve carved out for themselves in an ever-more devastated landscape. “Am I your prisoner?” she asks him once, and he responds, astoundingly, “You’re a prisoner only if you don’t want to be here.” Between engagements with Alja and Danijel the film provides images of the awfulness of the war — the murder of a baby, the use of women as human shields, a mass grave — as well as its surreal quality, as one man reflects that 40 minutes away in Italy tourists are sitting out in the sun. These are haunting scenes, but along with the growing muddiness of our understanding of our two leads they seem disconnected. If In the Land of Blood and Honey aims to be a film about the madness of war, it’s not clear whose madness it is, as war is depicted as descending out of the sky like a contagion. It fits with Jolie’s insistence that there should have been early outside intervention in the conflict, but also seems too facile an explanation for the atrocities committed. As the love between Danijel and Alja curdles in an impossible environment, we mourn for them but don’t feel we understand them. Follow Alison Willmore on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

Judge Approves Pay Bump For Jackson Estate Admins

First Published: December 19, 2011 2:08 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Michael Jackson leaves the Santa Barbara County Courthouse in Santa Maria on May 25, 2005LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The executors of Michael Jacksons estate are getting a pay raise. A judge on Monday approved a request by the two men running the late pop stars estate to receive additional compensation for their professional services. Jacksons estate is overseen by attorney John Branca and music executive John McClain. They say in court filings that they have so far been paid less than the 10 percent of gross entertainment-related earnings of the estate that they agreed to split for managing the singers business affairs. The deal allows Brancas law firm to bill separately for its work, which was previously part of his share. McClain will now be paid for use of his recording studio. Jacksons estate has earned more than $300 million since his June 2009 death. Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Christoph Waltz on 'Carnage,' Roman Polanski, Quentin Tarantino and 'The Three Musketeers'

Good timing for Team 'Carnage.' On Thursday morning, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association nominated Kate Winslet and Jodie Promote within the Best Actress inside a Musical or Comedy category in the Golden Globes, under 24 hrs prior to the new Roman Polanski film is scheduled to reach in limited release. Kismet! Regrettably, 'Carnage's' best artist, Christoph Waltz, did not take pleasure in the glow from the Globes. Not too Waltz most likely minds. Because he told Moviefone recently, the thought of running the 4 co-stars of 'Carnage' (John C. Reilly completes the foursome) as anything apart from supporting stars and stars for award consideration was "ridiculous." Which may as well be another reputation for the Golden Globes. In line with the hit abide by Yasmina Reza -- the Broadway version which won the Tony Award for the best Play last year -- 'Carnage' concentrates on two progressively inebriated and hostile couples, the Longstreets (Reilly and Promote) and also the Cowans (Waltz and Winslet), who meet at inside a Brooklyn apartment to go over your dream their sons got in around the playground. Waltz, who won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for 'Inglourious Basterds' last year, plays Alan Cowan, a calculating and detached business shark who slices a lot of the discussions that ensue having a cold-hearted clearness. Though what else can you expect in the guy who performed Hendes Landa. Waltz rang up Moviefone recently to go over 'Carnage,' debate if the film is simply too theatrical, his busy year of 4 releases, and 'Django Unchained.' How familiar had you been using the play before accepting the role? Well, I have seen it. I have seen it once. The Broadway version? No, I first viewed it years before! I understand People in america have that inclination to think about the Broadway version the initial. It isn't! It's 5 or 6 years following the original. The initial is at Zurich, and strangely enough, despite the fact that it had been designed in French, it had been in German -- the initial. I first viewed it there. What, contrary, remember about this production? I recall which i just loved the various components. I loved the roles. I loved the figures. Despite the fact that I rarely do this, I figured, "Hmm, hmm, I possibly could play each one.Inch [Laughs] They are meaty roles within the film, with a lot of dialogue. It feels very theatrical sometimes... Well, no, I disagree. I apologize to destroy. I do not think the film is theatrical. Because what can that be? On the other hand, It is extremely motion picture. As motion picture because it will get. Simply because it is a limited space does not mean it isn't motion picture. Simply because your camera actions aren't from thirty-feet cranes swooping over Dying Valley and behind the racing stagecoach does not mean it isn't motion picture. Everything offers a bit more focus on detail. But, I question -- and it might be a fascinating discussion to entertain for a while -- I question whether that isn't really more motion picture than technological efforts to prove the purpose. I'd accept that. I resulted in the performances are -- well, not stagey, because that could be an insult... Well, not always. OK, well, it is simply you don't frequently see broad performances such as these in typical movies. Yes, yes. Absolutely. Yet, the confinement from the space, I claim, does not allow it to be less motion picture. And That I question be it not on the contrary. You had been born in Austria, you shot the film in Paris also it happens in NY. And also the NY facet of it's key, since the couples are extremely specific Park Slope-types. How have you get within the mindset from the clever Park Slope shark when you are not filming here? That is indeed a huge compliment, since you, like a NYer, believe that. Which means something. If somebody who has visited NY two times for 3 days states, "Well, it brought to mind NY!" That might be meaningless. You saying that's an enormous compliment. It is a difficult factor to complete, especially not in NY for that shoot. Well, it's. We wanted might we done it. Polanski isn't just an expert of where you can put the camera, he's additionally a master at creating very specific atmospheres and guiding you to definitely a really specific behavior. That is what the attempt was, let us refer to it as such. Apparently, based on you, it had been effective. So, thanks! [Laughs] Well, you are welcome. Just how much preparation have you do before? Was there a serious quantity of rehearsals? We'd two days of rehearsals. That is, for that regular movie, an extravagance. With this, it had been just enough. Although not because we'd more problems to resolve. After eight days we began run-throughs from the whole factor. Had we practiced another couple of weeks, we're able to have carried out it around the stage. That may be next -- you four can embark upon a countrywide tour. That might be fun. [Laughs] You are dealing with three other major stars -- two other Oscar those who win as well as an Oscar nominee -- so... Did we fight? Well, yes. Was there any competition between you four? No, no. This is the one complement Roman compensated us, and that he does not do this gently. At some point we requested him, "Do you know us a bit how it's, what it is going, the way we are?" And that he stated, "Would you like me to stroke your ego?" Sorta beaming, since it is an estimate in the play. The main one large compliment he compensated us was that he's never labored with several stars where there is no oneupmanship. And he's absolutely right! Yet, I credit him with putting this number of stars together. Why do you consider Polanski keeps attracting such major acting talent? Well, you realize, really, its not all actor is attracted to him, incidentally. There has been occurrences in which the stars have stated, "Sorry, I can not do that,Inch and left. It's where your requirements are. I do not think you are a fool if you cannot deal with that. It is where your requirements are, and where they're is really a matter of preference. You will find stars who not work this way. It's their right! I simply occur to like it. This excessively precise, 100-percent concrete, to-the-point, and, in ways, almost pedantic method of what it's that we are doing. It will really make a difference whether you are here or there, even when the length between your two is really a one-half inch. It will really make a difference. The choice is yours to determine what lengths you need to enter into the particulars. So how exactly does his style rival, say, Quentin Tarantino? I wouldn't do a comparison whatsoever. It might be among the silliest attempts ever. How does one compare a race equine to some -- no, that's already casting something. How does one compare -- I'm not sure -- a equine to some bicycle? Well, both of them move places. Both of them can enable you to get somewhere. Both of them move, exactly! If you devote some effort they move faster. You'd a extended career before 'Inglourious Basterds,' but that movie place you into the spotlight for American audiences. How can you keep that momentum and goodwill from 'Basterds' consistent? It isn't been that lengthy. The discussion could be interesting about 10 years from now. It's been 2 yrs and contains been developing nicely. Aside from the truth that I am really thrilled and happy about this and grateful still, it's ... I'm not sure. Sometimes with those who are fantastic. These. I do not use lots of people around me. Agents and publicists. I do not travel by having an entourage. I do not believe for the reason that. However I use the very best. And "best" means perfect for me. It may be not the very best for the following guy, but exactly what do I worry about the following guy? Again, same factor: it certainly is about what it's that you want to do and never how you want to push myself within the foreground. That could be an effect or otherwise. That isn't something to become anticipated. We would like to perform the great work. Carnage' may be the 4th film of yours getting launched this season. It's been a comically busy year for you personally ... That's a great way of putting it. [Laughs] ... so was there a method or anything with one of these options? No, no. You will find certain criteria through which you get to a choice, and they are not fixed. They are not law. They are not gospel. These criteria are dynamic -- let us place it this way. It must function as the right mixture of things the ones. There is no large mystery. You decide to go greatly because of your feeling. While you stated, I have been neighborhood for any week-and-a-half already, so that your instincts are not only your inspiration, but according to experience. You may be totally wrong. Obviously you can! But, with a few experience -- and also you do keep your spontaneity and customary sense -- usually you are taking one step within the right direction. Despite the fact that may possibly not function as the wished for grand success, however, you can't win all of them. That seems like maybe 'The Three Musketeers.' I understand which was a disappointment both financially and significantly. That occurs. It's a part of the overall game. You have 'Django Unchained' approaching. It had been reported that you simply were hurt while training, same with it reliable advice this role is much more physical than Hendes Landa was? It is a Western. Unexpected things happen inside a Western. You do not perform a Western on the bicycle. Despite the fact that, in 'Butch Cassidy and also the Sundance Kid,' there's this large sequence on the bicycle! Obviously, that's probably the most famous scene within the whole movie. Exactly. So, I suppose you are able to perform a Western on the bicycle. However, you were on the equine. Yeah. But it is OK. It had not been a large deal. To 'Carnage,' before we are saying goodbye: I understand The new sony is thinking about running all individuals within the supporting groups... Other things could be ridiculous! The amount that I, personally -- I speak personally -- relied around the others, and i believe how a others relied around the others, anything wouldn't make sense at all whatsoever. Other things is totally unthinkable. You may as well run all people for the best Seem Design. [Photo: AFP/Getty] 2012 Golden Globe Nominees Best Actor inside a DramaBest Actor inside a DramaBest Actor inside a DramaBest Actor inside a DramaBest Actor inside a DramaBest Actress inside a DramaBest Actress inside a DramaBest Actress inside a DramaBest Actress inside a DramaBest Actress inside a DramaBest Actor inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actor inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actor inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actor inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actor inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actress inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actress inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actress inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actress inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Actress inside a Comedy/MusicalBest Supporting ActorBest Supporting ActorBest Supporting Actor'A Harmful Method'Best Supporting ActorBest Supporting ActressBest Supporting ActressBest Supporting ActressBest Supporting ActressBest Supporting ActressBest DirectorBest DirectorBest DirectorBest DirectorBest Director See All Moviefone Art galleries » Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Jennifer Aniston and Luc Besson drama acquired by Universal

Universal has closed a deal for your distribution rights for the approaching Luc Besson picture, with Angelina Jolie's title set being round the marquee.The Leon guy, more frequently credited just like a producer nowadays, will probably sire a combination between his acclaimed works The Professional as well as the Fifth Element, together with the studio getting upset within the lion's share of worldwide rights, the untitled project now looks ready.In the move that will prompt many to request, "what's the reason behind even seeing it now?", Universal has revealingly divulged that it's going to be described as a "dramatic thriller with action".Waifish Tourist star Jolie, whose partner also works inside the film industry, is busy haranguing anybody who'll listen about her directorial debut, Bosnian war drama Inside The Land Of Blood stream And Honey, nevertheless it appears that her collaboration with M. Besson will precede almost every other turns before camera.Ridley Scott's Gertrude Bell biopic and Sony's Nefertiti epic are the other projects presently trying to trap her eye.Inside The Land Of Blood stream And Honey are available in US cinemas on 23 December, but you'll find no nuances of the Uk release by yet.

Boardwalk Empires Shocking Finale Hits Season High, Luck So-So In Preview

Boardwalk Empires second season ended on the high note. The finale, featuring the shocking dying of the major character (won’t reveal more with regard to waiting Digital recording device audiences), averaged a season high 3 million audiences at 9 PM on Sunday. Another 834,000 audiences caught the 11 PM replay for any combined audience of three.8 million. Sandwiched between your two airings of Boardwalk Empire would be a preview of HBOs new David Milch/Michael Mann series Luck, which premieres Jan. 29. The pilot episode from the equine-racing drama starring Dustin Hoffman averaged 1.a million audiences, possessing another from the Boardwalk Empire finale audience.

Friday Box Office: New Year's Eve Fizzles in First

Exactly what the saying again? You are able to fool some moviegoers constantly and all sorts of moviegoers a few of the time, however, you can’t fool these constantly? Something of that nature — maybe we ought to request Warner Bros., Garry Marshall and all sorts of the heavens stuffed so tough into Year’s Eve, who recycled the model that gained the aromatic Valentine’s Day a $56 million opening weekend and located under another of this crowd prepared to fall for this again. Still, it will likely be enough for to begin with on the pillow-soft weekend. Your Friday Box Office is here now. 1. Year’S EVE: $5,080,000 (new) 2. THE SITTER: $3,725,000 (new) 3. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING Beginning PART 1: $2,500,000 ($254,083,000) 4. THE MUPPETS: $1,664,000 ($60,427,000) 5. HUGO: $1,600,000 ($28,964,000) [Figures via Box Office Mojo

Fate of net rests on Dodgers

The survival of an entire cable channel effectively depends on the disposition of future TV rights of the Los Angeles Dodgers, reflecting how abruptly sports TV fortunes can rise and fall. When 2011 began, the top two sports franchises in Los Angeles, the Dodgers and the Lakers, were quietly clicking off another year with Fox Sports as their primary cable home. With 2012 beckoning, the Lakers have already been pried away by Time Warner Cable, and Fox is in litigation to preserve its hold on the Dodgers. The stakes are high for both media giants. Time Warner is under pressure to make profitable its multibillion-dollar commitment to English- and Spanish-language networks dedicated to the Lakers -- keeping those networks thriving during the warm-weather months without regular-season NBA games -- while Fox may have to collapse one of its two Los Angeles-centric sports cable channels (either Fox Sports West or Prime Ticket) if it loses the Dodgers. "There's no question, because essentially (Fox would be) left to the Angels and hockey and lesser properties," Sports Business Journal baseball and digital media writer Eric Fisher said. "The legal papers have already suggested as such that Prime Ticket's future is certainly threatened." Should Fox Sports West and Prime Ticket be consolidated into one network, the revenue loss to Fox would be in the hundreds of millions. "Essentially you're not only losing the advertising, but you're losing some of the carriage fees as well," Fisher said. Complicating matters locally is another 2011 development: the Pacific 12 Conference's bold plan to debut its own group of proprietary networks in August 2012, which will pry still more content away from Fox Sports. Time Warner also made a noteworthy, albeit smaller-stakes, raid on Fox Sports content by inking a deal in November for 10 years' worth of TV rights to the Major League Soccer champion Los Angeles Galaxy beginning next year. Fox Sports retains rights to MLB's Angels, the NBA's Clippers and the NHL's Kings and Ducks, but the viability of spreading them over two channels is limited -- especially with the Angels as the only summertime attraction. "Given that Time Warner has got the Galaxy and there's a little bit of a summer foothold, I would say Fox and Prime Ticket are the more desperate party (for the Dodgers)," Fisher said. Whoever gets dibs on the Dodgers will pay dearly for the privilege. Thanks to skyrocketing valuations, the Dodgers figure to cost their next TV home at least $150 million per year, perhaps much more if the bidding heats up. The Lakers' 20-year deal with Time Warner is believed to be worth approximately $200 million per year. The Dodgers' linchpin role for Southern California cable networks is nothing new. When Fox acquired the Dodgers from the O'Malley family in 1998, it was with an eye on having a centerpiece that could launch that second all-sports cable network in Los Angeles and forestall ESPN from invading the territory. In theory, Fox's hold on the Dodgers shouldn't currently be in jeopardy. Their current deal runs through 2013, with a clause that through November gives Fox exclusive negotiating rights to a post-'13 extension, including a chance to match competing offers. But the ongoing legal drama surrounding outgoing Dodger owner Frank McCourt has put Fox's exclusivity on the ropes. With the Dodgers still in bankruptcy court since their filing in June, lawyers for McCourt have requested permission to immediately open the sale of future media rights to all comers in order to maximize value for creditors. Settlement talks are taking place, with a hearing on the matter scheduled for later this month. Mere months ago, before becoming legal combatants, Fox and McCourt were allies. The media giant, which helped finance McCourt's highly leveraged purchase of the Dodgers in 2004 and no doubt was looking to reinforce his dependence, made a personal loan in April to the McCourt to help keep his embattled ownership dreams alive. Two months later, a June deal between Fox and McCourt to extend Dodger broadcasting rights through 2030 was rejected by MLB commissioner Bud Selig on the theory that it sold out the long-term future of the Dodgers. If Fox does comes away with the Dodgers for the long-term future, Fisher speculated, "You could have a situation where Prime Ticket gets amalgamated to a more front-and-center Dodger branding." Contact Jon Weisman at jon.weisman@variety.com

REPORTS: NFL Close To Deal Extending TV Rights Through 2021 For $6 Billion A Year

This NFL season’s ratings haven’t been as strong as last year’s which broke a slew of ratings records. But the NFLcontinues to be the most potent TV sports franchise by a mile. So the National Football League and the broadcast, cable and satellite networks are close to whopping deals stretching through 2021 that would give the league a 60% increase over current fees. That’s $6 billion a year or more from all its media “partners,” according to the industry trade publication Sports Business Daily and the Wall Street Journal. The deals are with News Corp’s Fox, Comcast’s NBC, andCBS as well as DirecTV and Disney’s ESPN. Broadcast network share of the yearly fees will amount to about $3.2 billion. ESPN’s share will be about $1.9 billion per season under the league’s separate $15.2 billion deal with the cable network for “Monday Night Football” which also lasts through 2021. (ABC suffered significant drops in ratings when Disney opted to shift Monday Night Football to ESPN.) DirecTV pays roughly $1 billion a year to offer its Sunday Ticket that covers all Sunday afternoon games and some other NFL programming. NFL coverage is also a huge factor for local TV stations, not only for network-owned stations but for affiliates owned by other companies that have to pay the networks for the rights to carry their programming. In turn cable systems and satellite providers have to fork over what are known as retransmission consent fees when they carry local stations from every market where the systems operate. NFL football is a huge bargaining chip in these overall negotiations. Disputes over fees sometimes result in threatened or literal disruptions of service on cable or satellite services that play out in news coverage tugs-of-war with networks. League and media executives have been workingto complete the agreements before the holidays.

How USA Co-Presidents Will Move Beyond the 'Blue Skies' Programming (Q&A)

Spotify on Wednesday announced that it is launching Facebook-style apps that add certain features and functionality to its online music service.our editor recommendsSpotify to Launch Facebook-Style AppsGoogle Music Launch Unveils a Solid Competitor to Apple, Amazon, SpotifySpotify Boasts 458% Year-on-Year Revenue BoostSpotify: As Media Goes Gaga Over Launch, Pandora Stock FallsSpotify Usage Explodes After F8, Facebook Integration According to the company, developers can now create HTML 5 apps for Spotify. The apps announced included ones for THR's sister publication Billboard, Rolling Stone and Pitchfork as well as Songkick, a concert listings site, and TuneWiki, which that displays lyrics to a song as it's playing. PHOTOS: Apple Products in TV and Movies One app will display lyrics while a song plays, while another will generate a list of upcoming concerts by artists in a user's playlist and provide links that allow users to buy tickets. Stockholm-based Spotify's "app finder" is will include reviews from magazines and blogs that let users listen to albums as they read reviews. The apps will be free for paying and non-paying users. During the announcement in NY, CEO Daniel Ek touted the move as "bringing music to where it should have been." Meanwhile, the apps also could help differentiate Spotify amid growing competition from the likes of Google, Apple and Amazon.com. So what do the tech experts have to say about the announcement? CNET's Greg Sandoval was less than impressed. "Maybe because we're so used to the app platforms from iTunes, Android, and Facebook that Spotify's announcement today that it too is building such a platform doesn't inspire much awe," he wrote. "Or maybe it's because the new apps that the company demonstrated today at a press event here don't do much that's new." He also questioned" how much music fans care about new ways to interact with their music users will even be interested in the apps" as well as what motivation developers have "to build for the service when they won't be allowed to generate revenue from their wares like they can with iPhone or Android apps." STORY: Spotify to Launch Facebook-Style Apps Likewise, Gizmodo's Adrian Covert expected more from the announcement. "Many of these apps, only being developed in the past couple of weeks were minimal, and reps for each company promised more features in the near future," Covert wrote. "I'd definitely like to see more dynamic generation of lists and recommendations-- or even filters for general Spotify navigation -- based on a certain criteria unique to each sites content." On the other hand, Wired's Eliot Van Buskirk was more optimistic. "Ever since Spotify launched users have requested new features -- everything from 'DJ mode' to the ability to buy tickets," he wrote. "This strategy of outsourcing those new features to outside app developers makes a lot of sense from that point of view, because it allows Spotify to add a massive number of optional features that will be invisible to users who just want the vanilla version." He added: "Talk of [application programming interfaces mayseem like the stuff of technology wonkery, geekery or nerddom, but think about it: A kid coding away in a basement all night, anywhere in the world, can build apps within the most popular music subscription service in the world. Want to play your friends' Facebook preferences? Create a party playlist automatically based on the people attending? Tag songs to locations so that others can stumble across them? ... With Spotify's revamped API, and the ability to include the apps within Spotify itself, the sky is the limit." STORY: Spotify Boasts 458% Year-on-Year Revenue Boost TechCrunch's Josh Constine was similarly hopeful, writing that Spotify's "new integrations ... unlock the potential of its massive music catalogue." "The apps could inspire longer listening sessions that expose users to more ads, get them more attached to their paid accounts, and share more links that drive referral traffic from Facebook," he added. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Apple Products in TV and Movies Related Topics Facebook Spotify

Occupy Los Angeles: Hundreds of Protesters Planning to Defy Midnight Eviction

This story first appeared in the Dec. 2 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommendsFrom 'The Artist' to 'War Horse,' 23 Awards Contenders That Prominently Feature Animals (Photos)The Making of 'The Artist''The Artist' Star Berenice Bejo to Wear Her 1920s Costumes on Red CarpetsHow Rin Tin Tin Ruined Any Oscar Shot for 'The Artist's' Jack RussellMichel Hazanavicius, the Artist Behind 'The Artist,' On the Great Crowd-Pleaser (Video) Somehow, Michel Hazanavicius managed to come up with something that even the French thought was loopy. For years, the Parisian writer-director -- an analytical guy who sees filmmaking as what he calls "playing with codes" -- had been captivated by an idea. But financiers got cold feet just hearing about it; the boutique television stations that typically fund sophisticated European films walked away. Even in a nation of cineastes and revival houses -- a country in which a major film movement was once launched by a band of movie critics -- his dream looked to be dead on arrival. PHOTOS: The Making of 'The Artist' "I wanted to make one for a long time," the director says about his fascination with doing a black-and-white silent set in the 1920s. His long limbs folded over a table at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills, he talks about his heroes like F.W. Murnau and Fritz Lang. "But it's even difficult to convince myself, or to convince anyone else, it is even possible. I found that some producers -- really all of them -- were a little bit cold." It didn't help that the 44-year-old Hazanavicius was known in France for the box-office-friendly, period-conscious OSS 117 spy parodies, in which a kind of Gallic Bond scampers through the 1950s and '60s. "What I needed was a crazy guy," he says. Enter Thomas Langmann, 40, whom Hazanavicius calls "the craziest producer in France." Langmann, the son of Oscar winner Claude Berri (who directed Manon of the Spring and produced Roman Polanski's Tess), worked a bit with Soderbergh and Coppola as a young man and produced some French smashes in his 30s. Langmann sees producing as a species of gambling. "It was always about betting on directors," he says of the philosophy his father passed down. "I knew if we made a film in black and white and we succeeded, it would be original." It took director and producer awhile to sync up -- early ideas such as a feature with an invisible protagonist didn't make the cut. "I really wanted to make an entertaining movie," Hazanavicius says, noting that many European silents were tragic romances. "I thought it was unfair to ask people to come to a black-and-white silent movie that was also dark -- it would be too much." But finally the two came up with an idea that worked: a film about a '20s matinee idol who struggles with the advent of talkies. PHOTOS: Behind the Scenes of our Directors Roundtable Photo Shoot With Michel Hazanavicius The movie that resulted is being talked about as the first silent film with real best-picture Oscar chances since Wings, the 1927 Clara Bow film that arrived soon before the talkies changed the game (it won). The Artist opened in the U.S. on Nov. 25 -- just two screens each in NY and Los Angeles -- but already has banked an impressive $12 million since its release in France in October. More important, the film took the best actor award at Cannes, where it played to rapturous audiences, and it has gone on to seduce judges at festivals around the world and sweep the season's audience awards from Chicago to the Hamptons to San Sebastien. "It is as wonderful a film as it is modern," says silent-film collector and producer Serge Bromberg, who has seen the movie six times at festivals, "with jaw-dropping cinematography, good acting, wonderful knowledge of classic cinema. And it has the flavor of the old. But it is not a film of the '20s; the pace is not the same, and its constant humor gives it some distance from what a film of the '20s would be." Hazanavicius was already an admirer of the silent era, but as he wrote, he immersed himself deeply for several months, reading actors' biographies, going to screenings of Murnau and Frank Borzage and early John Ford at Paris' Cinematheque, studying photographs and playing music of the '20s and early '30s. STORY: 'The Artist' Star Berenice Bejo to Wear Her 1920s Costumes on Red Carpets He wanted Jean Dujardin -- a bankable French star known mostly for comic roles -- to play the lead, Valentin. "Of course, I said: 'You're crazy. It's impossible,' " says Dujardin. Hazanavicius also asked his girlfriend, Berenice Bejo, the Argentina-born French actress who appeared in A Knight's Tale and in his OSS films, to play a studio extra named Peppy, shot into fame by a chance encounter. "I said, 'No way -- no way,' " recalls Bejo, who has two children with the director. "Not with me." The two eventually were persuaded, and their presence caused a change in the movie itself. The original vision for the film focused on Valentin's isolation. But as Hazanavicius got deeper into the film, Peppy began to seem major, and the movie became a romance. Dujardin had only ever scratched the era's surface. "I knew only the masterpieces of Keaton and Chaplin," he says. "It was a real discovery for me to find King Vidor's The Crowd," a film about a man lost in the big city of the 1920s that the actor calls "very modern, very touching; it helped me to assemble all the different references." PHOTOS: It's a Zoo This Season: 23 Awards Contenders Featuring Animals As a model for his character, he found Douglas Fairbanks -- the actor who started making films in 1915 and whose career faded as talkies ascended. "In all his films," Dujardin says, "he doesn't ask himself any questions," never straining against the limits of the swashbuckling style required by such films as Robin Hood and The Mark of Zorro. "It's pathetic when you know the talkies are coming, but he's also very generous. He's like my character George Valentin: He can be arrogant, but he has integrity. He believes in his art. He fights for it." (Valentin needs that integrity -- as he spirals downward, it's all he has, besides liquor and an attentive, scene-stealing dog to keep him warm.) Bejo's research found inspiration in Gloria Swanson -- who, unlike Fairbanks, excelled after the silent era. She fell for Swanson's autobiography, which describes a life very different from the desiccated former star she played in Sunset Boulevard. "She started in the silent period and then went to the talkies and then to TV," Bejo says. "I got a sense of the atmosphere of the period." To make a film about Hollywood, Langmann reasoned, you had to shoot there. By now he'd drawn some funding from French station Canal+ and invested considerably from his own company, La Petite Reine. But the costs of coming to America -- and surrendering French government subsidies -- raised the stakes substantially. (The film's eventual budget came close to $20 million.) STORY: 'The Artist': The Not-So-Silent Entry Shooting at the Paramount and Warner Bros. lots -- as well as locations like the beautifully lit center court of downtown L.A.'s 1893 Bradbury Building, known to film buffs for its role in Blade Runner -- inspired the crew over the 35-day shoot. (Dujardin was put up in an old house in the Hollywood Hills -- he thinks to amplify his isolation for his slide in the movie's second act.) "Hollywood, in my opinion, is the big star of the movie," says Hazanavicius. Also crucial to re-creating the era onscreen was the work of costume designer Mark Bridges, who worked on all of Paul Thomas Anderson's films, including Boogie Nights and There Will Be Blood. Some of his vision for The Artist came from the MGM documentary 1925 Studio Tour. "You could see what the carpenters, what the plasterers wore," he says. "Even those guys in their bib overalls had a necktie. And a lot of hats, either for warmth or bad hair days." Surprisingly, director of photography Guillaume Schiffman shot the film in color because today's black and white is too sharp, not grainy enough. He used unusual filters to diffuse the whites and mute the blacks slightly -- and as the film went on, with its main character losing some of his sheen, the light got grayer. Although Hazanavicius deliberately had chosen very expressive actors -- Americans John Goodman, James Cromwell and Penelope Ann Miller round out the cast -- they found the limitations were difficult at first. For Bejo, working without lines threw her off. (The actors improvised in English while onscreen, to give their mouths something to do, mixed with a few of the "lines" shown to the audience on intertitles.) But she eventually found a way to inhabit the role. "If it was a talking movie, she would have been the same -- would have moved the same way, winked the same way, danced the same way," she says. "The challenge was to try to focus on the body language, but the rest of it was finding a way of being an American actress. I think of American actors -- they take up a lot of space, they talk really loud, they talk with their hands. So I had to find that, since being a French actor, everything is more petite." STORY: How 'The Artist's' Fashions Are Impacting the Red Carpet To keep communing with the past, the director kept the music of the era -- George Gershwin, Cole Porter -- in constant rotation while they shot, and he brought cast and crew to see films at the Silent Movie Theatre on Fairfax, and to the Nuart for its revival of Murnau's Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (a morality tale about the corrupting influence of the city Murnau made for Fox in 1927) . The director applied some of what he learned: Murnau, for instance, had instructed his protagonist from Sunrise to wear heavy, weighted shoes on set after he fell on hard times; Hazanavicius did something similar when he dressed his fallen star in suits slightly too big for him. "He's not as perfect as he was in the first act," he says. Hazanavicius credits the world's fascination with Hollywood for the film's international appeal, but the enormous enthusiasm of Harvey Weinstein is the reason it has exploded out of the gates during the festival season into the awards race. Weinstein, who had enjoyed the OSS films, had heard about the movie from Langmann and in March flew to Paris, where he saw the film alone in a screening room. Weinstein was not ambiguous in his praise. The Artist, he says now, "treasures the American cinema I love. It's an inspiration, everything about the movie -- where they shot the movie, the way they used American cast and crew. It's just a love letter to American cinema." Langmann was impressed with Weinstein's urge to pull the trigger without any associates along to vet the decision. It was still months before Cannes -- it was not even assured at this point that the film would be released in France -- but by the time of the festival, the deal to distribute in the U.S., the U.K. and other regions was done. The film ends with a tap dance that required more work than anything else in the film. "I think 95 percent of the preparation was for the tap dancing," Hazanavicius says. Bejo recalls her practice with both pleasure and exasperation: "Five months, every day." The film was shot in as close to real sequence as possible -- in part to give the actors time to learn to tap dance, and partly so they would travel the same journey as George and Peppy before arriving at the climactic scene. "The dance is all about their characters," Hazanavicius says. "If it's just a performance, it's not interesting." Bejo's attitude toward the conclusion captures some of the quality that makes her character -- and the film -- so winning. "I kept telling myself: 'Just smile, look at each other, enjoy the moment. The happier you are, the less people will look at your feet. Just act, don't try to be good -- your feet will follow.' " PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery The Making of 'The Artist' Related Topics The Artist 1 2 next last

'Twilight' bests holiday beginners

'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning -- Part 1'Despite the Thanksgiving glut of B.O. champion "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning - Part 1" along with a trio of kidpics, brought by Disney's "The Muppets," overall domestic box office still was lower roughly 10% versus. last year's extended holiday play period.In 5 days, "Breaking Beginning" collected $62.3 million for any cume of $221.3 million, while "The Muppets" settled for second place, having a debut of $42 million through Sunday.Neither pic could match last year's top game titles: "Harry Potter and also the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" made almost $75 million in 5 days "Twisted" bowed with $68.7 million.The 2010 other debut VIP's, including new records "Arthur Christmas" and "Hugo," handled to keep their very own, though large budgets might make that it is hard for either film being lucrative. "Arthur Christmas," which cost you a reported $98 million, arrived in the high-finish of anticipation, by having an believed $17 million. "Hugo," meanwhile, was created by GK Films for north of $150 million and obtained a five-day take of $15.4 million (substantially much better than pre-weekend forecasts within the low-double numbers)."Hugo," distribbed Stateside by Vital, were built with a relatively reserved rollout at 1,277 locations, which 75% from the weekend gross originated from roughly 1,000 three dimensional locations. In comparison, "Arthur Christmas," which released at 3,376 locations, gained 53% of their total from 2,378 three dimensional playdates.Componen vice chairman Take advantage of Moore said on "Hugo's" release strategy, calling it "a great rollout for any movie that are more expensive than $100 million." He added that "this movie has certain assets that warrant another type of release pattern," namely, reviews that are positive and reactions from kudos groups.Componen intends to expand "Hugo" to a lot more than 2,000 locations by 12 ,. 9.Overseas grosses can help both "Hugo" and "Arthur Christmas." The first kind pic launches next weekend within the U.K., where "Arthur Christmas" already continues to be carrying out extremely well for 3 days, having a local cume of $12.7 million. As a whole, "Arthur Christmas" has cumed $22.3 million from 24 marketplaces outdoors the U.S.Warner Bros.' second-week Stateside holdover "Happy Ft Two" could beat both "Arthur Christmas" and "Hugo," landing within the No. 3 place by having an believed $18.4 million in 5 days. Pic's Stateside cume now stands at $43.8 million.Despite the fact that overall totals lagged, no-one can blame the small men.Fox Searchlight saw an outstanding expansion for "The Descendants," which cracked the very best ten because of its second straight week - this time around, grossing a five-day $9.two million from just 433 locations.Also carrying out well was the Weinstein Co.'s niche set of "My Week With Marilyn" and "The Artist," the second which bowed at four locations for that weekend's greatest per-screen average in 72 hours at $52,604. "My Week With Marilyn," which bowed Wednesday at 123 engagements, obtained within the lengthy weekend an overall total $2.a million, using the weekend's best Friday-Saturday bump of 31%. (Pic broadened to 244 playdates on Friday.)The new sony Pictures Classics' new entry "A Harmful Method" first showed Wednesday at four locations, calculating an outstanding $60,236 per screen for 5 days. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

'Cole Project' bows in Queens

Director-choreography Chet Walker, one of the co-creators of the 1999 terp tribute revue "Fosse," is at work on a new dance-centric outing, "The Jack Cole Project," set to have its world preem this spring at Queens Theater in the Park. Walker's latest tribute tuner focuses on choreographer Jack Cole, whose work is best known from his dance numbers in classic pics including "Some Like It Hot," "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "Gilda." Cole's Broadway credits included "Kismet" and "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," and he's considered an influence on legit names including Fosse and Jerome Robbins. "Cole Project" aims to re-create dances in Cole's style as well as incorporate new numbers based on Cole's work in Hollywood, on Broadway and in nightclubs. Show follows in the footsteps of another musical, "Chix 6," which recently debuted at Queens Theater, a troupe in the midst of a new-tuner push that's unusually ambitious for an outer-borough company. Walker's troupe Walkerdance is the resident dance company at Queens Theater. Cast has not yet been set for "Cole Project," which is skedded to open May 3. Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com

'Harry Potter' Stays Put at Top of Home Entertainment Charts

Industrial Light and Magic/ParamountJ.J. Abrams' 2009 "Star Trek" Paramount has plotted a course for May 17, 2013, for its next Star Trek sequel, which it plans to shoot in 3D. The release date slots the sci-fi franchise into a very busy tentpole-filled May 2013, coming right after Marvel/Disney's Iron Man 3 and Warner Bros.' Guillermo del Toro-directed Pacific Rim.our editor recommendsComic-Con 2011: 'Terra Nova' EPs Talk 'Star Trek' Memories, Killing Captain Kirk and Their Hopes for the Upcoming Fox DramaHollywood's A-List Redefined PHOTOS: Hollywood's A-List Redefined Earlier this year, director-producer J.J. Abrams, who directed the first Trek reboot, was tied up with Super 8 and hadn't committed to directing the new episode, forcing the studio to abandon its original date of June 29, 2012. But the studio's announcement of a new release date for Summer 2013 indicates that Abrams is happy with the status of the script from Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof. The 2009 Star Trek movie grossed $386 million worldwide. Paramount, looking to the way Christopher Nolan and Warner Bros. relaunched the Batman franchise with Batman Begins, is hoping the newly refurbished Starship Enterprise will reach even greater heights with this second installment. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Hollywood's A-List Redefined J.J. Abrams Paramount Pictures Star Trek

Jimmy Fallon Apologizes to Michele Bachmann for 'Late Night' Song Intro

Bloomberg/Getty Images Jimmy Fallon has apologized to Republican presidential hopeful Michele Bachmann for the introduction that was played when she appeared on his show Monday.our editor recommendsMichele Bachmann Slammed with Song by 'Jimmy Fallon' BandMichele Bachmann's Campaign Manager Calls CBS News Producer a 'Piece of S---' Amid 'Media Bias' Allegations PHOTOS: Hollywood's Memorable Mea Culpas When the Minnesota Congresswoman came out to greet Fallon, the Late Night With Jimmy Fallon house band, The Roots, greeted her with the 1985 Fishbone song called "Lyin' Ass B--ch." Fallon tweeted Tuesday, "I'm honored that @michelebachmann was on our show yesterday and I'm so sorry about the intro mess. I really hope she comes back." PHOTOS: Michele Bachmann on the Campaign Trail The song choice was criticized by many, including Fox News' Todd Stames, who wrote, "Could you imagine if the network had pulled a similar stunt with First Lady Michelle Obama or Secretary of State Hillary Clinton? NBC is not commenting and Fallon doesn't appear to have the fortitude to respond. So allow me to fill in the blanks: NBC, you disgust me." Stames went on to slam Fallon, "As for Fallon, what's there to say about a man who earns his living playing make believe? He's a sniveling, inurbane court jester who degrades women." PHOTOS: 10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate Democratic Congresswoman Nita Lowey called the incident "insulting and inappropriate" in a statement Tuesday, "The choice of song to introduce Michele Bachmann on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon last night was insulting and inappropriate. I do not share Michele Bachmann's politics, but she deserves to be treated with respect. No female politician -- and no woman -- should be subjected to sexist and offensive innuendo like she was last night. The Roots, Jimmy Fallon, and NBC should apologize." The Roots' drummer Questlove had alerted his Twitter followers of the pending song choice on Monday. He told The Hollywood Reporter that Fallon and producers had not been told about it in advance, "The performance was a tongue-in-cheek and spur of the moment decision. The show was not aware of it and I feel bad if her feelings were hurt. That was not my intention." Jimmy Fallon Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Politics Michele Bachmann

Covert Matters Exclusive Sneak Look: Joan Notifies Annie to get the job done in the Nice Way!

Kari Matchett and Piper Perabo Joan, who's been very challenging to Annie on Covert Matters, will need another approach now.Hidden Affairs' Chris Gorham on Auggie's new girlfriend: It's a very complicated relationshipAfter an resource is destroyed in Russia, Annie (Piper Perabo) has reservations about considering the main suspect: the daughter from the ex-CIA analyst whom she'd been designated with monitoring. Enter Joan (Kari Matchett) to once again talk her into happening the mission. But unlike her past orders, that certain is really a lesser stern edict plus much more of sweet heart-to-heart.Watch the clip: Covert Matters airs Tuesdays at 10/9c on USA.

Summer season Games ((Giochi d'estate))

'Summer Games'A Look Now! (in Europe) relieve a Peacock Film, Classic production, in colaboration with RSI, RSG SSR, Arte. (Worldwide sales: Rezo Films, Paris.) Produced by Elena Pedrazzoli, Amedeo Pagani. Executive producer, Ilann Girard. Directed by Rolando Colla. Script, Colla, Roberto Scarpetti, Olivier Lorelle, Pilar Anguita-MacKay, Zoe Galeron.With: Armando Condolucci, Fiorella Campanella, Francesco Huang, Chiara Scolari, Marco d'Orazi, Alessia Barela, Antonio Merone, Roberta Fossile, Aaron Hitz, Monica Cervini, Giorgio Gobbi, Max Zampetti, Michele Napoleone. (Italian, French dialogue)There's not new in the world in "Summer season Games," a fantastically shot and mostly well-socialized drama that crudely juxtaposes the every once in awhile overlapping cell phone industry's of grownups and youngsters within an Italo campground. Latest feature by Rolanda Colla, a Swiss director of Italian descent, is credited with a staggering five screenwriters (like the helmer) but struggles to build up something original to convey the grown-up characters' pre-divorce bickering particularly comes lower to some pileup of threadbare cliches. Good-searching pic will repetition Europe inside the foreign-language Oscar derby and contains arranged a few scattered niche theatrical activities in continental Europe. Occur a campground round the sunny Italian coast, "Games" initially focuses on sulky digital digital rebel kid Nic (Armando Condolucci), who's at odds along with his somewhat crass working-class father, Vincenzo (Antonio Merone). They're on vacation with Nic's kid brother, Agostino (Marco d'Orazi), as well as the boys' mother, Adriana (Alessia Barela), whose marriage to Vincenzo clearly has seen better days. When safeguarding Agostino's recognition, Nic (short for Nicola) can get in to a scuffle with Marie (Fiorella Campanella), a lady from French-speaking Europe who also talks Italian. She's also on vacation along with her family, having a youthful sister (Chiara Scolari). As often happens with kids, their mutual bitterness is rapidly forgotten when bigger group adventures beckon, namely a rickety shed in the nearby cornfield that becomes the hideout of those two sister sets together with a nearby kid (Francesco Huang). Even though daredevilry, cruelty and uninhibited character in the children's games appear somewhat familiar, Colla finds exactly the right tone with this particular material, remaining observant without becoming sensationalistic, preachy or too detached. Sadly, the identical cannot be mentioned in the film's portrait of Nic's parents, who appear stuck less in the loveless marriage just like a simple template of conjugal strife. The means by which Colla and also the small military of authors contrast the overbearing presence of Nic's father, which has anger-management issues, with the fact Marie, Nic's potential paramour, does not have father, is actually on-the-nose it handles to get rid of any symbolic or undercover impact. Carrying out a somewhat shaky start, youthful Condolucci evolves into his role and can acquire some strong moments through which he becomes the narrative linchpin, embodying that difficult age when kids become conscious of a number of things their parents do aren't right, but haven't enter their particular enough to forthrightly dismiss authority. Opposite him, Campanella is less consistent, while Merone particularly is boxed in by weak character development. Other artists are often fine. Besides Condolucci, the film's other star is undoubtedly the cinematography of newcomer Lorenz Merz, which luxuriates in sun-dappled and penumbral designs and tanned summer season skin tone. It achieves some contrasts and detail that's rarely seen on HD films (shot here while using Red-colored-colored camera) and may catapult him up report on youthful lensers to make use of in Euroland.Camera (color, HD-to-35mm), Lorenz Merz editors, Colla, Didier Ranz music, Bernd Schurer, Nikolaj Grandjean production designers, Paola Genni, Martino Sulmoni, Andi Schraemli costume designers, Daniela Verdenelli, Sara Facchini appear (Dolby Digital), Juerg Lempen. Examined at Thessaloniki Film Festival (Open Horizons), November. 7, 2011. (In Venice, Toronto, Busan, Warsaw film festivals.) Running time: 98 MIN. Contact Boyd van Hoeij at news@variety.com

Steve Carell, Dork Craig Team for 'Lunatics'

If you are creating a movie in Hollywood and Steve Carell is not attached in some manner, you are most likely doing the work wrong. The hilariously busy and beloved star will apparently team with famous authors Dork Craig and Alan Zweibel to have an adaptation of the forthcoming novel 'Lunatics.' In The month of january, it concentrates on two warring suburban fathers, whose conflicts escalate with world-altering results. Carell, who'll produce, would play Phil, a dog-store owner and kids's soccer ref, who will get right into a major disagreement with another father throughout one game. Not sure yet alternatively father, consider Universal may be the studio behind that one, start speculating the studio's usual comedy suspects: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn and can Ferrell. Since departing 'The Office,' Carell continues to be acting just like a guy possessed. He's set to star in 'Burt Wonderstone' with Jim Carrey, 'Foxcatcher' for director Bennett Burns, 'Great Hope Springs' with Meryl Streep, 'Despicable Me 2' and 'Dogs of Babel,' along with the already shot 'Seeking a buddy for that Finish around the globe.A No moss about this moving stone. Craig is really a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, while Zweibel is among the original authors of 'Saturday Evening Live' and who owns many Emmys in addition to a Thurber Award. 'Lunatics' comes to print an internet-based on Jan. 10, 2012. [via Deadline] [Photo: Getty] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED

ROLL CALL: Olsen Twins Top Vogues Best Dressed List

First Published: November 10, 2011 2:37 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen attend the Christian Louboutin Cocktail party at Barneys NY in NY City on November 1, 2011 LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Your Daily Dispatch of Celebrity Shenanigans Mary-Kate & Ashley Best The Middleton Sisters: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen might have received their fair share of fashion flack over the years, but this year the twins are golden in the eyes of Vogue. The 25-year-old sisters top Vogues annual Best Dressed issue, which also includes fellow celebrity siblings Dakota and Elle Fanning, Beyonce and Solange Knowles and Kate and Pippa Middleton. Check out the entire list, HERE! CMNay!: Speaking of the opposite of Best Dressed, we present to you country singer Laura Bell Bundy from the CMA Awards last night in Nashville did she think she was going to a pool party? RippedNicki!: Jonathan Lipnicki is letting it all hang out and we mean the guns and the abs! Check out a recent photo shoot the former child star did where he shows off his extremely worked-out body. And for more Lipnicki fun, check out his recent visit to Access Hollywood Live, HERE! Nics Wise Purchase: Oh Nicolas Cage, Roll Call doesnt like having to tell people what to spend their money on, but according to TMZ, the actor recently dropped two thousand dollars on a knife! The actor reportedly bought a Don Dezarn original at Northern Knives in Anchorage, AK, on Wednesday. The pricey blade has a mammoth ivory handle and a bald eagle engraved on the blade! And what will Nic reportedly do with his knife? He allegedly told employees at the shop that he plans to use it as a steak knife! Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Craig Sloane will get 'Penthouse' view

Brit thesp Craig Sloane ("Hollyoaks") is placed to become listed on Michelle Monaghan and Michael Keaton in Dimension Films' thriller "Penthouse North." Monaghan stars like a blind photojournalist instructed to play a deadly bet on cat and mouse having a sadistic criminal (Keaton) who'll visit absolutely nothing to retrieve a lot of money of stolen diamonds hidden in her own penthouse apartment. Sloane will have Chad, Keaton's partner in crime, who poses like a useful stranger to be able to obtain a crucial bit of information in the protag. Their own existence is endangered when he does not get what he needs and it is instructed to call his sadistic boss for help. Frederick Ruben ("Sleeping Using the Enemy") is pointing from the script by David Loughery ("Obsessed"). Duo will also be creating with Shaun Sackman and Michael Baker, while Jon Shiffman is professional creating the pic, which begins production on 12 ,. 7 in Ottawa. Sloane, who's most widely known for his role as Niall Rafferty around the Funnel 4 cleaning soap "Hollyoaks," presently stars opposite Mark Rylance in "Jerusalem" around the West Finish, which follows a effective operate on Broadway. Sloane is repped by Innovative Artists, Lisa Willoughby at BWH Agency working in london and Isaac Dunham at Schreck Rose Dapello Adams Hurwitz. Contact Shaun Sneider at shaun.sneider@variety.com

Jennifer Lawrence: 'Hunger Games Isn't Twilight

First Released: November 2, 2011 5:11 PM EDT Credit: Lionsgate Caption Jennifer Lawrence and Liam Hemsworth within the Hunger GamesLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The approaching film adaptation of Suzanne Collins dystopia books, The Hunger Games, may have a hardcore group of followers along with a female lead caught between two males, but star Jennifer Lawrence states her approaching project isn't the Twilight Saga, a minimum of not. Hunger Games isn't Twilight, even though I hear the evaluations, its really premature to express that it'll function as the same phenomenon, the actress told Vanity Festivals December problem. Im so happy with the job we did around the film [director Gary Ross] and also the entire cast and crew were amazing, and that i cant wait for this to become introduced to existence because I believe its an essential story, she ongoing. Whether it does be a crazy phenomenon, Ill take in my freedom now! For her beloved Katniss character who endures numerous attempts on her behalf existence while fighting to outlive within the games and it is instructed to kill others Jennifer suggested that shes representing her as somebody who takes zero pleasure in taking somebody's existence. These children are killing each other only if it normally won't, theyll die. Its pointless, pointless, unjustified violence. Its heartbreaking, she described. After I auditioned, I told Gary, I realize if you do not hire me, but please keep in mind that after Katniss shoots a bow and kills someone, her face can't be bada**. Adding, So, theres nothing awesome about her. It is not like she looks round the arena and goes, Yeah, I acquired this. I believe she looks around helplessly, and thinks, I designed a promise to my sister which i would survive now I must kill to be able to achieve this. The Hunger Games, that also features Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Woodsy Harrelson and Lenny Kravitz, is slated hitting theaters on March 23, 2012. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Jerry Seinfeld First Guest Host To Follow Along With Regis Philbins Live! Departure

First Released: November 1, 2011 3:18 PM EDT Credit: Getty Images NY, N.Y. -- Caption Jerry Seinfeld attends the Broadway opening of Colin Quinn Lengthy Story Short in the Royalton Hotel, New york city, November. 9, 2010Departing morning TV hosts Regis Philbins chair on Live! wont have enough time to awesome off before Jerry Seinfeld arrives because the first guest host from the publish-Regis era. The most popular week day talk show is announcing that Seinfeld will join ongoing co-host Kelly Ripa for 3 days, airing November. 21-23. The show stated Tuesday that visitors scheduled to become listed on Ripa and Seinfeld are actor Jason Segal, actress Kim Cattrall, comedian-host Howie Mandel, Naked Chef Jamie Oliver which fabulous Muppet, Miss Piggy. Philbin is departing the show November. 18 after 28 years since it's host. You will find no intends to immediately announce a lasting successor. The soon-to-be-re-named Live! with Kelly continues to air in many metropolitan areas at 9 AM ET. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Bill Paxton Could Direct Kung Fu, and 6 Other Stories You'll Be Talking About Today

Also in today’s edition of The Broadsheet: Big-screen Fall Guy reboot gains speed… An evangelical Christian blockbuster is en route to a reboot… A Verge favorite lands a new role… Guess who’s getting the porn treatment… and more. · Some mornings I feel like I just can’t do this any more — not because there’s anything inherently disaffecting or terrible about news that Bill Paxton (yes, that Bill Paxton) is rumored to be in discussions to direct a movie reboot of the TV show Kung Fu, but because, like, I don’t know. Is this interesting? I mean, I think so? I can’t tell. Someone persuade me to look forward to hearing more about this or Sunlight Jr. or Untitled Werewolf Thriller, please, or just put me down like one of those ruined carriage horses at the end of its run. Either/or, whatever works. [Deadline] · Ah, here’s another one: “Martin Campbell Eyeing The Fall Guy,” a report that the man who brought you Green Lantern may pair with the writers of Thor and X-Men: First Class to revive the ’80s stuntman-cum-bounty hunter TV show. Whatever. [Deadline] · Or how about this: “Left Behind, the faith-based, action-packed book and movie series about the End Times, is getting a film reboot.” This one will apparently have a more of a disaster edge; the producers are presently on the lookout for a director, and/or a beating. [THR] · Erstwhile Verge designee Corey Stoll — who broke into the big-time big-screen ranks this year as Ernest Hemingway in Midnight in Paris — will be back at the movies in the indie dramedy Decoding Annie Parker. Stoll will play Sean, a young doctor who befriends Samantha Morton’s title character and tries to help her achieve her medical goals. [Press Release] · The sordid sexual-assault saga of Dominique Strauss-Kahn will finally get the porn-flick treatment you always hoped it receive. [Gawker] · Three days after leading his team to one of the more dramatic World Series victories in the last 20 years, veteran St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony LaRussa called it a career. Right behind ya, buddy. [AP]

Oscarcast taps new talent producer

A completely new face remains put in the 84th Academy awards telecast, according to producers Brett Ratner and Don Mischer. Melissa Watkins Trueblood, which has also done the Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy telecasts, remains named talent producer for your show. "Since the latest addition towards the team, Melissa brings a good amount of experience and years of great talent associations for the table," Ratner and Mischer mentioned. "Everyone knows she'll be described as a fantastic resource."Furthermore, telecast veteran Danette Herman has signed on as speaking to producer for your 84th and 85th shows."Danette remains an important and committed Oscar presence for well 38 years," mentioned Academy prez Tom Sherak. "Over the following couple of years, her ongoing guidance and participation inside the show will probably be invaluable." Contact Christy Grosz at christy.grosz@variety.com

The Actor-kaira Pitt can get Golden Globes revenge on Ough Gervais

The Actor-kaira Pitt finally has some payback over comments Ough Gervais produced in the Golden Globes a year ago about his film The Tourist.It's under the media spat you could expect though, as Depp's jibes feature on Gervais' new comedy series Life's Short.Warwick Davis stars inside the show since the mind from the talent agency run exclusively for additional compact stars.Depp appears just like a guest star and you will obtain an idea of his revenge below.

Toronto Mayor Calls Police After Being Ambushed by CBC TV Crew

TORONTO - As though carrying out a farce by remaining perfectly serious, Toronto mayor Take advantage of Ford rang law enforcement Monday after being faced by actress Mary Walsh and along with a cameraman in the Canadian Broadcasting Corp.'s satirical news show This Hour Has 22 Minutes.our editor recommends'Everybody Loves Raymond' Director to Helm CBC's 'The Debaters''Hockey Night' energy play not so good news for CBC "I arrived on the scene of the house and that i was ambushed," Ford told reporters after Walsh, garishly outfitted as smart journalist Marg Delahunty, suddenly turned up close to the mayor's front yard, having a microphone in hands. "There is a girl outfitted up and she or he was screaming my title: 'We got you Take advantage of Ford, we've got you,'" Ford, the poster boy for Canada's Tea Party movement, recounted. The mayor, supported by his five-year child, who he stated was frightened through the incident, came back to his house making a 911 call towards the police. "Whenever you arrived at my private house early each morning and ambush me, I believe that crosses the road,Inch Ford added, having a remark that rang with Canadians questioning Tuesday why the CBC crew made a decision to confront the mayor at his home. CBC spokesperson Chris Ball told the CBC.ca website the This Hour Has 22 Minutes crew tried to ambush Ford outdoors his the place to find shoot a segment for any future show. "These surprise interviews are what 22 Minutes are recognized for and also have been an element of the show for a long time. The job interview started in the finish of his front yard and came to the conclusion shortly after that. The crew didn't have interaction using the Toronto police," Ball stated. Most Canadian political figures, including former Ontario premier Mike Harris and former Canadian pm Jean Chrétien, place their fights using the Marg Delahunty character within their stride, and mostly smile broadly as Walsh provides her comic lines before a TV camera. Walsh also notoriously ambushed former Alaska governor Sarah Palin throughout a U.S. book tour. But Ford offered notice to Canadian satirical news shows to not doorstep him again, otherwise. "Don't arrived at the house. I simply hope another person does not do this again because I simply do not want other things serious to occur,Inch he told reporters. Related Subjects Worldwide Sarah Palin

Attorney: Judge Finalizes Christina Milian Divorce While Using-Dream

First Launched: October 24, 2011 6:21 PM EDT Credit: Getty Premium ATLANTA, Ga. -- Caption Christina Milian reaches this year's American Music Honours held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live in La on November 21, 2010A judge has completed singer Christina Milians divorce from singer-songwriter-producer The-Dream. Milians attorney Randy Kessler mentioned Monday the judge in Atlanta signed the best documents this month. Milian as well as the-Dream, whose real title is Terius Nash, were married this past year and separated within this summer time 2010. The Two include a baby daughter together. Kessler mentioned the divorce was resolved by mutual agreement. Milian is much better recognized for tunes for instance Dip it Low. The-Dream, whose hits include Shawty can be a 10, has produced for artists including Mariah Carey, Beyonce and Britney Warrior warrior spears he won two Grammys for his concentrate on Beyonces Single Ladies (Put A Band about it). Copyright 2011 with the Connected Press. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Why ABC Is Depending on 'Once Upon a Time' Star Ginnifer Goodwin

This story first came out inside the Sept. 30 problem in the The Hollywood Reporter magazine.our editor recommends'Once Upon a Time's' Ginnifer Goodwin and Jennifer Morrison Explain Its Version of 'Ever After' (Video)Ginnifer Goodwin to Star in ABC's 'Once Upon a Time' After five seasons on Cinemax's acclaimed drama Large Love coupled with film roles (Walk the street, Something Given), Ginnifer Goodwin, 33, is trying her hands inside a network drama from Lost producers Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz. She plays Snow White-colored and Sister Mary Margaret inside the mythic saga Not such a long time ago. PHOTOS: ABC's Year Tv Shows: 'Pan Am,' 'Charlie's Angels' plus much more My first acting role was ... A toy inside the Little Engine That Could at Auburndale Elementary in Memphis. My large break was ... My first role that I really could support myself had been an actress on [the NBC series] Erection dysfunction, however'd say [2003's] Hireling Shepherd Smile was my break. Being a member of that changed everything personally. I made a decision to accomplish TV now because ... That's where all the great authors go. The most popular factor about my character is ... As Snow White-colored, she's never self-indulgent enough to permit her obstacles discourage her. PHOTOS: Fall TV's 12 Most Anticipated Shows My least favorite factor about my character is ... Sister Mary Margaret's emotional journey is actually treacherous it's very hard will be able to remind her story empathetically. I walk home having a couple of residual discomfort. Most likely probably the most exciting part in regards to the TV customers are ... Systems take large risks. ... I've not been as impressed while using [film] scripts that we've become. The truly special ones are couple of in number because we're making less movies, and individuals we are making are large and fancy as well as the storytelling is much less harmful. I am in a position to't say it's as appealing an area being personally. PHOTOS: Fall TV Dying Pool: Which New Show Will Probably Be Canceled? Most likely probably the most frustrating part in regards to the TV customers are ... It's a double-edged sword should you're sufficiently fortunate to get finish up inside the TV world, you're undertaking all of your time for any very long time. An average day on set lasts ... 12 to 14 several hours, that's short personally compared to Large Love. Essentially could cast my dream guest star, I'd cast ... Anybody from Lost, Michael Emerson or Terry O'Quinn. The most popular Tv shows (excluding mine) are ... Lost, Pushing Daisies and South Park. Related Subjects ABC Ginnifer Goodwin Not such a long time ago Lost

Best Movie Art Ever (Now): Marvel-Disney Mash-ups

For comic fans, next summer's 'Avengers' movie might be the realization from the fantasy that didn't appear possible only a few years back. But since the just-released trailer has proven, that which was once pure imagination is becoming movie reality. While using large-screen superhero team-up set to achieve in May, it is time for your die-hard Marvel zombies to begin speaking over the following film milestone -- since Marvel Comics and Wally Disney Art galleries interact, the film choices are endless. Could we view the Incredibles fighting side-by-affiliate with Captain America and Iron Guy from our multiplex? You don't need to wait to uncover what which will appear like because of there being several gifted artists using sites like Flickr, Tumblr and DeviantArt to show their movie-inspired artwork. From an adamantium-laced waterfowl with a amusing new acting work for Winnie the Pooh, see the amazing Dinsey-Marvel mash-up art. Best Movie Art Ever (Now): October 15, 2011 Epic MisneyFrom the webcomic 'Lil Formers'Incredibles versus. IncredibleA Crazy MarvelLogald DuckerineDisney InvadersThe New Marvel HeroesJ J Jameson's DilemmaAnd finally... See All Moviefone Galleries » Need a close-from that first photo? Here you decide to go: Our sister site, ComicsAlliance, comprises an exercise of spotlighting particular artists and/or specific physiques at work, there's however a lot great attempt to observe they have began Best Art Ever (Now), a weekly depository for are are just some of the virtually numerous items of especially compelling artwork they encounter inside their travels within the digital media landscape. Numerous it's new, numerous it's old, numerous it's created by working professionals, numerous it's created by gifted fans, and several of it's endearingly stupid. And all of it's awesome. Want more? Have a look at ComicsAlliance's Best Art Ever (Now). Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook RELATED #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-257572.cke_show_edges #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-257572, #postcontentcontainer #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-257572

Can Clouds Convince Americans to Buy Streaming Movies?

Attention, home video viewers: Hollywood has noticed you're not buying as many movies lately, and that not even the introduction of Blu-ray has slowed the slump. Now, the industry is hoping that the advent of cloud storage will get you to buy movies again, using streaming video. (Yes, you're already accustomed to using streaming video to rent movies, but the studios want you to buy as well.) As such, say hello to two new rival cloud services -- UltraViolet, launching this week with the home video releases of 'Green Lantern' and 'Horrible Bosses,' and Apple's yet-unnamed movie service, launching soon -- designed to hopefully change your movie-buying behavior. Both services offer you the option of watching your movie on a variety of devices, wherever you happen to be, but can Hollywood use the convenience of cloud storage and streaming to get you to spend more on what you're already getting? UltraViolet, which is a partnership among all the major studios except Disney, works this way: if you buy a Blu-ray or DVD that has the UltraViolet logo on the package (right photo), you are entitled to a digital copy residing in the cloud, which you can stream on any Web device, be it a computer, a smartphone, a tablet, or an Internet-enabled TV. In other words, it's like the digital file you're used to getting with some DVDs, only it's not on your hard drive and you can play it on any machine."We want to emphasize the concept of 'buy once, play anywhere,'" Warner Bros president of digital distribution Thomas Gewecke said in a statement. Apple's service, which doesn't yet have a formal name or launch date, is expected to work this way: you'd buy the movie online through the iTunes store, and you'd be able to stream it on any Apple device. According to the Los Angeles Times, the service should be up and running by late 2011 or early 2012. There are some caveats, of course. Right now, you can't buy UltraViolet streaming movies without buying a disc. In fact, if you want to stream 'Green Lantern,' you can't even buy the mere single-disc DVD; you have to buy either the Blu-ray combo pack (retailing for $35.99) or the Blu-ray 3D combo pack ($40.99). And even though you're buying a high-definition version of the movie on disc, the streaming copy is not hi-def (or 3D, for that matter). Also, you have to jump through some hoops to use it: there's an online UltraViolet code that you must enter to claim your copy; to play it, you have to set up an account with a service like Flixster (the movie-themed social networking site owned by Warner Bros., one of the four UltraViolet studios). As for Apple's service, it will work only on Apple's own mobile devices and Internet-TV boxes. Users of non-Apple smartphones, or set-top boxes like Roku are out of luck. And it's not even clear when Apple users will be able to access the service. The new iOS5 operating system for Apple mobile devices, introduced Wednesday, allows cloud storage of music, photos, and some other media, but not movies -- yet. Some of those difficulties will be ironed out in the future. In 2012, UltraViolet will start selling streaming copies alone, without having to buy a physical copy as well. 'Green Lantern DVD' - Clip No. 1 Still, questions remain. What will Disney do? Will it side with Apple or UltraViolet? Or both? Will the two services undercut each other? According to the Times, studio executives think not; in fact, they welcome Apple's entry into the streaming-movie market, on the theory that iTunes can get people in the habit of buying cloud movies the way it got consumers acclimated to buying music downloads, and that behavioral shift will benefit all the studios. But will viewers change their behavior? Right now, you're going to spend more to own a streaming movie than you will to subscribe to an entire library (like Netflix's) for two months. And UltraViolet certainly isn't as easy to use (yet) as Netflix. More broadly speaking, are streaming users and DVD/Blu-ray users the same people? At the risk of overgeneralizing, disc fans like the storage medium's picture quality, its bonus features, and the ability to replay a movie an unlimited number of times. Streaming users prefer digital's convenience and portability, don't mind watching a movie on a three-inch screen, don't need extras, and are accustomed to watching a movie only once. The studio's cloud strategy depends on getting both groups to change the way they watch movies. So far, it's not clear whether either UltraViolet or Apple offers a compelling enough set of enticements to make viewers change. Nonetheless, it's been clear for some time that Hollywood doesn't really want to be in the disc business anymore. It still wants you to buy movies, but it doesn't want to spend money producing and shipping the physical product. Eventually, streaming may become the primary -- or even the only -- delivery system for private movie viewing. So the question becomes not "Can viewers learn to start loving streaming?" but rather, "Do we have to start loving it now?" [Photo Credit: Warner Bros.] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook Follow Gary Susman on Twitter @garysusman RELATED

UPDATE: Hulu Entrepreneurs Abruptly Call Off Purchase Just What Went Wrong?

UPDATE: Today News Corporation, Providence Equity Partners, The Wally Disney Company, as well as the Hulu senior management team launched some pot statement it had been terminating purchasing Hulu.”We anticipate cooperating to continue mapping out its route to elevated success.”(Full statement below.) Just what went wrong?A number of things. But people near the process tell me that particular problem was particularly tough to overcome: Comcast, Disney, and News Corp could never accept the scope in the programming they were ready to offer someone buying Hulu. It had been particularly so foradvertising supported VOD, the kind of service that Hulu offers now. Hulu simply wasn’t worth much once the merchants wouldn’t add in exclusive rights to stream popular first-runshows.Sources tell me that Disney was more open to offering hit programming, and for your reason with a Hulu purchase, than News Corp was — even thoughNews Corp’s digital chiefJon Burns was the reason a part of wrangling the bids. (Comcast required to quit its election at Hulu to win federal approval due to its acquisition of NBCUniversal.) To date because the particular investing in an offer, Dish Network was ready to bargain but offered underneath the $2B the merchants wanted. Google was ready to pay a lot more, only if it incorporated lots of exclusive programming guarantees. However the one factor to think about is always that the three of Hulu’s primary backers collect lots of money from cable channels — and for your reason have a very lot at risk in ale satellite and cable companies to unveil ‘TV Everywhere’ services. The concept is always that pay TV companies can give the time to watch first-run shows if needed on cell phones and pills without expense, as extended when you’re a person. If Hulu has compelling ad-supported content designed for free,then clients may have a reason to reduce the cable tv cord. Designers don’t have to consider this choice. Even though Hulu is certainly a recognised service and TV Everywhere is just getting started,satellite and cable companies with one another cash more clients than Hulu probably ever will. PREVIOUS 4:40 PM: Here’s the condition announcement: La, NY & Providence, RI October 13, 2011 This really is some pot statement from Hulu entrepreneurs News Corporation, Providence Equity Partners, The Wally Disney Company as well as the Hulu senior management team: Since Hulu holds a unique and compelling proper value to each of the entrepreneurs, we've ended the acquisition process and anticipate cooperating to continue mapping out its route to elevated success. Our focus now rests solely on making sure our efforts as entrepreneurs lead in the significant approach to the exciting future that's approaching next for Hulu.

Rankings: Modern Family A Dominant Pressure X Factor Postponed by Baseball

Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell, David Mix Whether it's facing The X Factor, Modern Family keeps winning Wednesday evening. Family sustained its strong showing, entertaining 13.42 million people and posting a 5.7 rating among 18-to-49-year-olds - both levels for that evening. A 2-hour-plus rain delay pressed Game 4 from the American League Championship Series in the mid-day into prime time on Fox, putting off X Step to Thursday evening. The overall game averaged 9.44 million fans along with a 3. demo rating, preliminary Nielsen data shows. Fall Preview: Get scoop in your favorite coming back shows Following Family, Happy Being had 7.55 million people tuning in at 9:30/8:30c. Also in prime time's middle hour: the night's second most-viewed show Criminal Minds (12.68 million), NBC's Harry's Law (7.64 million) and America's Next Top Model around the CW (1.86 million). At 8/7, Survivor: South Off-shore put together 10.55 million audiences on CBS, while ABC's The Center snapped up 8.83 million and NBC's Up Through The Night 5.25 million. A repeat from the CW's Ringer got 1.17 million, that was hardly worse compared to time slot's previous tenant, H8R. CW gives Sarah Michelle Gellar's Ringer a complete season Within the next half-hour, Suburgatoryscored 8.79 million people while a rerun of Whitney handled 3.99 million - a lot more than the final first-run episode from the rapidly canceled Free Agents . Within the final prime-time hour, CBS' CSI: Crime Scene Analysis attracted 10.78 million fans ABC's Revenge 7.94 million (its first uptick after precipitously trending downward to 7.70 million from 8.55 million and 10.15 million because of its premiere) and NBC's Law & Order: Special Sufferers Unit 7.18 million. Particularly happy news for ABC: the brand new dramanotched a slot-winning 2.7 rating in the market-valued demo while CSI's 2.6 marked a set low for any fall episode.

A Monster in Paris (Un monstre a Paris)

A EuropaCorp, Bibo Films, France 3 Cinema, Walking the Dog co-production, in association with UFilm and UFund, with the participation of Canal Plus, France Televisions, Cinecinema. (International sales: EuropaCorp, Paris.) Executive producers, Eric Goossens, Toon Roebben. Directed by Bibo Bergeron. Screenplay, Stephane Kazandjian, Bergeron, based on an original story by Bergeron.Voices: Adam Goldberg, Jay Harrington, Danny Huston, Bob Balaban, Sean Lenon, Vanessa Paradis, Madeline Zima, Catherine O'Hara, Matthew Geczy. (English dialogue)A terrifyingly overgrown flea turns out to be harmless and likable in "A Monster in Paris," and so does French animator Bibo Bergeron's funny valentine to retro horror and musical conventions. Evincing a warmer, more personal touch than his splashy Stateside toons "Shark Tale" and "The Road to El Dorado," this homegrown production warbles its way through a bevy of good-natured Gallic cliches and a sweet if scarcely inspired story about unexpected friendship and the infectious power of song. Still, it's a modestly conceived kidpic unlikely to achieve monster-hit status outside Gaul, where it opens Oct. 12. Unfolding in a gray, mist-enshrouded Paris circa 1910, the film takes excellent advantage of its turn-of-the-century setting by tipping its beret to various technological innovations of the period. The opening reels pay brief, affectionate tribute to the era of silent cinema with a glimpse of the black-and-white reels shown by film projectionist Emile (voiced by Jay Harrington). Bergeron and Stephane Kazandjian's script goes through some leisurely exposition before introducing the eponymous monster, a flea magnified to gargantuan proportions thanks to a freak accident overseen by Emile's zany inventor friend, Raoul (Adam Goldberg). Fallout from this unfortunate incident involves Paris' mayor, Victor Maynott (Danny Huston), a rotten bully hoping to exterminate the beast and boost his political cachet; and Raoul's frenemy/love interest, Lucille (Vanessa Paradis), a nightclub chantoosie who befriends the misunderstood monster, names him Francoeur, and helps unlock his latent musical gifts. A spontaneous lounge act, in which angel-winged Lucille supplies the vocals while a white-masked Francoeur accompanies on guitar, provides one of the film's two hummable highlights, the other being a bewitching number titled "La Seine" (the songs and score were composed by M and Patrice Renson). These interludes prove more consistently diverting than the story, which tosses off a series of twists, deceptions and chase scenes as Lucille and her friends try to hide Francoeur from Maynott; it's all engaging enough, but never kicks things up a notch to produce the desired levels of narrative invention or excitement. Facial animation favors the sort of comic exaggeration that makes it easy to overlook the characters' clearly digitized features and artificial-looking hair; on the non-human side, clear care has been taken to make Francoeur look benign but not exactly cuddly. While no d.p. is credited, the painterly backgrounds and delicate modulation of lighting and color tonalities from scene to scene betray a cinematographer's sensitivity, shown to good effect in 3D. Images of the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre-Coeur and other Parisian landmarks blend with the film's rainy weather patterns to make this an unusually lovely, melancholy mash note to the City of Lights. Voicework on the English-language version reviewed was topnotch, with Paradis' musical perf the clear standout. (Color/B&W, 3D); editor, Pascal Cheve; music, M, Patrice Renson; music supervisor, Alexandre Mahout; production designer, Francois Moret; art director, Neil Ross; animation director, Fabrice Joubert; main characters designer, Carlos Leon; set design supervisor, Sebastien Piquet; main characters modeler, Michel Guillemain; sound (DTS/Dolby Digital), Samy Bardet, Thierry Lebon, Nicolas Stretta; sound designer, Bardet; special effects supervisor, Laurent Gillet; visual effects supervisor, Jo Plaete; stereographer, Rodolphe Chabrier; assistant director, Bertrand Schutz. Reviewed at Toronto Film Festival (TIFF Kids), Sept. 10, 2011. (Also in Busan Film Festival -- Open Cinema.) Running time: 90 MIN. Contact Justin Chang at justin.chang@variety.com

Small crowd for Ultra purple cloud

Horrible Bosses will be the first Ultra purple-supported pic. Pals With Benefits One Tree Hill UltraViolet is forgoing the big splash due to its rollout Tuesday. Despite an industrywide push to acquire Hollywood to back the launch in the digital locker, up to now, among the majors, only Warner Bros. and also the new the new sony are likely to supply films and tv shows for Ultra purple inside the coming several days.Other art galleries are needed to follow along with together with between early 2012, according to reps for your Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem, the consortium of 75 content entrepreneurs, retailers and technology companies that developed the cloud-based service within the last four years.Art galleries and retailers would like to reverse growing online rental costs and boost digital homevid sales to exchange using the lowering DVD biz. Digital sales were up 19% a year ago, in line with the Digital Entertainment Group, however when these were up another 4% throughout the initial half of 2011, amounting to $270 million, video-on-demand created $929 million throughout the identical period.Clients are actually frustrated with requiring to purchase multiple versions of the title to see on items that require different file formats.UV's backers hope digital lockers will eliminate many of the annoyance by creating a single extension and destination where purchases from numerous retailers might be saved and utilized using most items having a net connection -- laptops, cell phones, pills and videogame consoles. Items with Ultra purple incorporated inside them will hit store shelves next season, though Apple is up to now around the holdout on its hardware.LodgeNet is wanting this buy-once-play-anywhere approach will benefit their VOD biz in hotels, where it's searching to enhance sales at its 1.8 million rooms permitting site visitors store films they rent or buy inside their digital lockers.The very first report on Ultra purple-supported game game titles set to bow through December can be a short one, however.WB will start with "Horrible Bosses," Tuesday "Eco-friendly Lantern," Friday "Harry Potter as well as the Deathly Hallows: Part 2," November. 11 and "The Hangover Part II," 12 ,. 6. The brand new the new sony has "The Smurfs" and "Pals With Benefits," both on 12 ,. 2.Furthermore to films, WB will even increase the risk for DVD and Blu-ray collections of CW's "One Tree Hill: The Whole Eighth Season" designed for Ultra purple on 12 ,. 20, and Showtime's "Shameless: The Whole First Season" will bow on 12 ,. 27.Once they purchase Ultra purple-supported Digital video disks and Blu-sun sun rays, clients will probably be likely to open a free of charge internet account providing you with an opportunity to watch the title via streaming to be able to download copies onto numerous approved items. Online retailers may even provide purchases of movies and tv shows with Ultra purple rights.WB's game game titles will initially be around for streaming or download through Flixster, the film discovery service which works film review website Rotten Tomato vegetables. The studio acquired the business in May.Just 16 companies have registered for Ultra purple licenses since DECE built them into accessible within the U.S. within this summer time. The brand new the new sony and WB will be the only two art galleries among the businesses that have Comcast, Apple, Rovi and PacketVideo.The DECE hasn't lost the support in the other art galleries. However, many wouldn't like to supply their unique game game titles prior to the org introduces its common extension for downloads, which will enable all Ultra purple retailers to deploy it inside the first half of 2012.Ultra purple will be a hot subject at Mipcom in Cannes the other day, with Miramax Boss Mike Lang, alongside WB and also the new the new sony professionals, pushing Hollywood to relieve the process of building digital libraries to boost sales."Clearly, once we can create a digital locker experience that's as basic for your consumer and interoperable, then no less than (it may be) an chance," Lang mentioned. "Hopefully, and make a purchase-transaction market. It's very a difficulty around the customer to know that whenever they are purchasing a thing that it produces any device. It's either tied into an Apple ecosystem or best wishes trying to really make it work."When the Ultra purple extension reveals, clients will have a way to join up around 12 Ultra purple-supported items inside their accounts to see back files and tell six family people or pals.The timing coincides while using Electronic Products Show, which occur in The month of the month of january in Las vegas, where DECE's backers can provide Ultra purple a considerable marketing and PR push. Ultra purple was revealed there this year.The initial game game titles should get clients familiar with seeing the Ultra purple logo design design on packaging and determine what what this means is before it may be ubiquitous. Ultra purple-enabled movies and tv shows will bow inside the U.K. across the holidays, with Canada also soon to create. Other locations follows in 2012. Contact Marc Graser at marc.graser@variety.com