Jonathan Kite Cooks Up Comedy in '2 Broke Girls'

Jonathan Kite Cooks Up Comedy in '2 Broke Girls' By Suzy Evans December 27, 2011 Photo by JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY If Jonathan Kite had gone by the breakdown, he never would have landed his role as Ukrainian cook Oleg on CBS's "2 Broke Girls." The part originally called for a bald 45-year-old Russian guy. "I am a 'guy' out of that," jokes the Chicago-bred actor. But Kite didn't let that stop him. For his audition, he bought a ridiculous outfit from Goodwill, completed it with mustard stains and a hairnet, and gave it a shot. "I never thought I'd get the part," Kite says, adding that his costume got a huge laugh from series creators Michael Patrick King and Whitney Cummings. "At the end, it came down to me and a guy who was between 45 and 50, bald, and much shorter than me. We were not really competing against each other; we were competing against type." Kite says he flipped out when he landed the role. The character has garnered criticism as a shallow one-liner type, with little depth beyond his sexual comments. One example of an Oleg-ism is "Once you go Ukraine, you will scream in sex pain." However, Kite says audiences haven't gotten to know Oleg. "I approach him as a real person because that does him justice," Kite explains. "If you look at 'Cheers,' those were very specific archetypes in a bar in the beginning. But after you watch the series, those are human beings. We've only been through nine episodes. Hopefully, there's a lot more for everybody in the future." Kite with the cast of "2 Broke Girls" (Photo Courtesy of CBS) One talent that helped Kite land the role is his knack for accents, a skill for which he has his childhood friends in Skokie, Ill., to thank. Growing up outside Chicago, Kite learned to imitate dialects by listening to his friends' parents, many of whom were eastern European immigrants. "My buddy Andy was actually born over there," Kite says. "I just picked up on it from being around him so much." Kite is something of a master mimic, and he learns accents and impersonations through immersion, whether it be watching YouTube videos of celebrities or hanging out with his Australian friends. "I don't like learning dialects from a textbook, because you don't necessarily get the rhythms of people," Kite says. "You really have to go to the source."Celebrity impersonations are also Kite's specialty, and his favorites include Vince Vaughn, Seth Rogen, and Tom Hanks. Kite has performed his Vaughn impression for the star, who he says was very kind. (See a video of Kite's many impersonations here.)Growing up near Chicago, Kite benefited from the city's extensive comedy scene. He studied at The Second City while stars Tina Fey and Rachel Dratch were on the Mainstage. Kite continues to work in improv and standup, performing gigs around Los Angeles and working with theaters such as iO West. "It prepared me for everything," he says of his improvisation training. "To just be in the mindset of always saying yes and always doing it for the greater good of the scene, it helps keep you selfless."Kite doesn't do much improv on "2 Broke Girls," however, as he says it would take away from the voice of the show. His theater training from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign comes in handy, though, as the sitcom shoots in front of an audience. Filming this way helps the comedy of the show, he says, because it gets an immediate response in terms of what the audience thinks is funny. If a joke doesn't get a laugh, the writers can rewrite it and tailor the show to the audience. "It's like a tennis match with us and them, back and forth," Kite says. "If something's not working, the audience tells you immediately. It's not about being right; it's about making it work."Another thrill of working on "2 Broke Girls" is that Kite gets to work with comedy icon Garrett Morris, an original cast member of "Saturday Night Live." With his comedy background and plentiful impersonations, Kite always wanted to be on "SNL," and although he'd still like to host one day, he says he's living the dream now by working on a show he believes in. "I really enjoy working every day," he says. "I don't even consider it work. It's easy to get up in the morning." Jonathan Kite Cooks Up Comedy in '2 Broke Girls' By Suzy Evans December 27, 2011 PHOTO CREDIT JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY If Jonathan Kite had gone by the breakdown, he never would have landed his role as Ukrainian cook Oleg on CBS's "2 Broke Girls." The part originally called for a bald 45-year-old Russian guy. "I am a 'guy' out of that," jokes the Chicago-bred actor. But Kite didn't let that stop him. For his audition, he bought a ridiculous outfit from Goodwill, completed it with mustard stains and a hairnet, and gave it a shot. "I never thought I'd get the part," Kite says, adding that his costume got a huge laugh from series creators Michael Patrick King and Whitney Cummings. "At the end, it came down to me and a guy who was between 45 and 50, bald, and much shorter than me. We were not really competing against each other; we were competing against type." Kite says he flipped out when he landed the role. The character has garnered criticism as a shallow one-liner type, with little depth beyond his sexual comments. One example of an Oleg-ism is "Once you go Ukraine, you will scream in sex pain." However, Kite says audiences haven't gotten to know Oleg. "I approach him as a real person because that does him justice," Kite explains. "If you look at 'Cheers,' those were very specific archetypes in a bar in the beginning. But after you watch the series, those are human beings. We've only been through nine episodes. Hopefully, there's a lot more for everybody in the future." Kite with the cast of "2 Broke Girls" (Photo Courtesy of CBS) One talent that helped Kite land the role is his knack for accents, a skill for which he has his childhood friends in Skokie, Ill., to thank. Growing up outside Chicago, Kite learned to imitate dialects by listening to his friends' parents, many of whom were eastern European immigrants. "My buddy Andy was actually born over there," Kite says. "I just picked up on it from being around him so much." Kite is something of a master mimic, and he learns accents and impersonations through immersion, whether it be watching YouTube videos of celebrities or hanging out with his Australian friends. "I don't like learning dialects from a textbook, because you don't necessarily get the rhythms of people," Kite says. "You really have to go to the source."Celebrity impersonations are also Kite's specialty, and his favorites include Vince Vaughn, Seth Rogen, and Tom Hanks. Kite has performed his Vaughn impression for the star, who he says was very kind. (See a video of Kite's many impersonations here.)Growing up near Chicago, Kite benefited from the city's extensive comedy scene. He studied at The Second City while stars Tina Fey and Rachel Dratch were on the Mainstage. Kite continues to work in improv and standup, performing gigs around Los Angeles and working with theaters such as iO West. "It prepared me for everything," he says of his improvisation training. "To just be in the mindset of always saying yes and always doing it for the greater good of the scene, it helps keep you selfless."Kite doesn't do much improv on "2 Broke Girls," however, as he says it would take away from the voice of the show. His theater training from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign comes in handy, though, as the sitcom shoots in front of an audience. Filming this way helps the comedy of the show, he says, because it gets an immediate response in terms of what the audience thinks is funny. If a joke doesn't get a laugh, the writers can rewrite it and tailor the show to the audience. "It's like a tennis match with us and them, back and forth," Kite says. "If something's not working, the audience tells you immediately. It's not about being right; it's about making it work."Another thrill of working on "2 Broke Girls" is that Kite gets to work with comedy icon Garrett Morris, an original cast member of "Saturday Night Live." With his comedy background and plentiful impersonations, Kite always wanted to be on "SNL," and although he'd still like to host one day, he says he's living the dream now by working on a show he believes in. "I really enjoy working every day," he says. "I don't even consider it work. It's easy to get up in the morning."

Fashion Slam: The Friday Five: Holiday Presents For Children

First Released: December 16, 2011 1:39 PM EST Credit: Getty Images La, Calif. -- Caption Just a little girl, putting on a winter coat, gives Father Christmas her wish list. Surrounding him are packages and toys.My loved ones keeps asking me for presents for my 2-year-old and i'm stumped! If you have a youngster you have to upgrade on and want some gifting inspiration, Jenny Cooper, Mind of Crewcuts Design, shares her suggestions. 1. Because I wish to provide the gift which will stick out probably the most and become the sparkliestthe women celebrity dress. That will certainly cause me to feel the favourite godmother, if I am not already!!! 2. A collection of books from your Crewcuts Book Club, in which a new connect from J. Crew picks their most favorite book they like to read for their children and that we market it online. One book isn't enough and reading through is easily the most helpful and long lasting skill just a little person can buy. For any boyThe Boy Who Bit Picasso, The Entire Book of U . s . States History (because my boys will always be asking me questions If Only I understood the solutions to!) along with a eco-friendly marbled composition notebook to allow them to write their very own book in. For any girlThe Book About Moomin, Mymble and Little My (that we was raised with), The Angry Fairy (which informs an interesting story in regards to a fairy with blank pages with no illustrations so she will create her very own masterpiece!) and she or he would obtain the neon pink composition notebook also to write her very own story! 3. I would need to obtain the Playforever Bruno Racing CarI dont care what age your children are, that one is timeless! The sleek shape and also the rubber wheels using the little helmeted mind will appear so chic around the mantelpiece after when the child has outgrown it. He'll never finish up inside a tag purchase! 4. The cashmere cable crewneck for children, to ensure that they're warm on snowy days. I believe the cashmere cable complements anythingthe amazing, dyed-in-Italia colors make any outfit! Put on it having a tuxedo pant to holiday occasions and switch to jeans when you are getting home. 5. The women letter hooks 're going along with EVERY gift, even boys, because who does not love their very own initials? Boys can pin their letters on their own backpack. Or rely on them like a tie pin. Thats what is so excellent concerning the pinsthey can embark upon just about anything and they're just $7.50 in order to have them for everybody plus some special people could possibly get both as well as three! For more information, take a look at world wide web.jcrew.com. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Nomination reaction: Judd Apatow, producer, 'Bridesmaids'

It is so nice this year that so many comedic performers like Kristen (Wiig) and Melissa (McCarthy) are getting their due. You know that's what makes the Globes so great is that they have that comedy (category). I think the Oscars should too because it's just as difficult to do comedy as it is to do hard drama."-- Judd Apatow, producer, "Bridesmaids" Contact Justin Kroll at justin.kroll@variety.com

Netflix Prepping Eli Roth-Directed Horror Series

Brad Garrett, the Emmy-winning actor best known for his work on Everybody Loves Raymond, is in negotiations to join the high-powered cast of Burt Wonderstone, New Line's magician comedy.our editor recommendsOlivia Wilde, Steve Buscemi in Talks for Steve Carell's 'Burt Wonderstone' (Exclusive)Showtime Orders Steve Carell-Produced 'Laughing Stock' Steve Carell toplines the movie, set in the world of rival Las Vegas magicians. Carell plays a more traditional magic man who is dethroned by a hipper illusionist doing dangerous tricks. He breaks up with his partner and must find a way to rediscover his love for magic. Jim Carrey, James Gandolfini, Olivia Wilde and Steve Buscemi already are on board. Garrett will play a supporting role as Carrell's accountant, whom he fires. The movie is scheduled to go before cameras in January. Don Scardino (30 Rock) is directing. Garrett won three Emmys for Raymond (he was nominated five times), the long-running and critically acclaimed sitcom. He also starred for four seasons in the comedy 'Til Death. He is repped by UTA, Management 360 and attorney Michael Gendler. Email: Borys.Kit@thr.com Twitter: @Borys_Kit PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Modern Film & Television Comedians Related Topics

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Experts and auds alike have experienced it again and again: achingly serious foreign-language film Oscar distribution that appear to possess been selected for that nobility of the intentions instead of their entertainment value."Something that tugs in the heartstrings and sets it against a great historic backdrop tends with an advantage, whether it's really good," states Box Office Magazine and KPCC "FilmWeek" film critic Wade Major. "Should you speak with people around the foreign-language selection committee, a few of the more youthful people, they are very frequently fatigued by all of the well-meaning, serious movies about The Second World War, the Holocaust and oppression in another country -- be it China or Iran -- or families losing farms."But 2011 has introduced a crop of foreign-language films by which po-faced pedantry has had a back chair to dynamic storytelling, from Belgium's "Bullhead," which utilizes a mob movie framework look around the adult aftermath of childhood sexual assault, to Mexico's "Miss Bala," which assumes the-button subject of narco-trafficking using a suspense thriller in regards to a beauty pageant contestant (Stephanie Sigman) kidnapped and pushed to dedicate yourself a criminal offense cartel."We thought when we made it happen well, the social commentary will come from beneath and that we wouldn't need to have lengthy, didactic dialogues," states "Miss Bala" author-director Gerardo Naranjo. "Actually, within the movie, the (lead) actress rarely talks nor does the theif. I believe that certain from the common mistakes of Mexican film is the fact that we overdo our jobs and then try to explain everything and draw conclusions."Italy's "Terraferma" begins off like a coming-of-age tale in regards to a 19-year-old Sicilian (Filippo Pucillo) caught between your old (his grandfather's dying fishing business) and also the new (his uncle's tourism trade). Then their fishing-boat happens upon a declining raft of African refugees, and also the film veers extremely from social drama to suspense."I did not wish to send any message, I had been just attempting to portray the problem, that we thought was interesting enough to become told in (motion picture) language," states the film's author-director Emanuele Crialese. "For me personally, immigration is a vital subject from the century" and, despite the fact that he desired to he wanted look around the problem from the human as opposed to a political perspective, he enables that "once we cope with a persons subject, we we are dealing also with politics in some way."For foreign films that serve their social issues upright, Philippe Falardeau, author-director from the French-language Canadian Oscar entry "Monsieur Lazhar," thinks many people might prefer them simply because they get enough standard-problem action, romance and psycho-drama from movies within their native tongue."Like a spectator, you want to know what is happening in individuals (other) nations," he states. "It's our window for their world."In a long time since "Schindler's List," auds happen to be give an abundance of motion picture portrayals from the Holocaust. But director Agnieszka Holland's fact-based drama "In Darkness" supplies a fresh perspective around the tragedy, while still controlling to become moving and suspenseful.The film explores the moral frailties of both film's protagonist, anti-Semitic Polish-Catholic crook Leopold Socha (Robert Wieckiewicz), and also the Jewish refugees he helps hide within the sewers beneath the Nazi-occupied capital of scotland - Lvov. Additionally, it shows how existence continues both below and above ground -- and not simply through women knitting and kids fighting over crayons. People fornicate, masturbate and skyrocket. A guy commits infidelity while his wife and daughter watch in the next mattress.While these moments will titillate some, Holland incorporated these to illustrate an easy human truth."Throughout the Holocaust, even just in the ghettos, the sexual existence was very wealthy," she states. "I believe that individuals needed this closeness, this sensual dimension."EYE Around The Academy awards: Language Fests get kicks from kudos Designed for greater success Pix playing for national pride Message sent via special delivery Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

CBS Face The Nation Growing To Have An Hour In Spring For 25-Week Election Cycle

CBS’ extended-running Face The Nation will expand to have an hour in the year, moderator Bob Schieffer brought to audiences on Sunday. The move will set the half-hour weekly staple by having an equal time footing having its rivals.I'm not able to consider when Ive been more comfortable to destroy an account than I am tell you this, Schieffer told audiences. The show continues to be available since 1954, and news division professionals have preferred to increase it program to hour for quite a while. The 60-minute format will remain in position for 25 days using the political conventions next summer season. Professionals then will decide on if you should increase the risk for change permanent.Fulfill the Press on NBC, Now on ABC and Fox News Sunday on Fox are each an hour or so approximately.

Tribeca's language of moviemaking

The serious business of fund-raising was at the heart of the Tribeca Film Institute's Dec. 7 benefit screening of New Line/Warner Bros.' "New Year's Eve" at the Ziegfeld. Afterwards, at the Hilton Ballroom dinner, TFI's Jane Rosenthal was upbeat about the future. "My New Year's resolution is to find more reasons to laugh," she joked. Rosenthal also talked up the project "near and dear to my heart, Tribeca Teaches, where we go into middle-school populations and teach kids who have English as a second language or are homeless to learn filmmaking, learn how to tell a story." - -- Stephen Schaefer Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com

Lionsgate launches Stan Lee original

Gough Millar LeeLionsgate has acquired feature rights to have an original superhero property from Stan Lee that Alfred Gough and Miles Millar will write, direct and convey through their Millar/Gough Ink shingle.Particulars in the untitled project are increasingly being saved under systems, but it's known to love a multigenerational superhero movie that spans several decades. Lee and Gil Champion will produce through their Bang! Entertainment banner, having a deal at Disney. The comicbook vet approached Gough and Millar while using superhero concept after becoming interested in "Smallville" and dealing together while using two scribes on "Spider-Guy 2."Furthermore for the "Spider-Guy" follow-up, Millar/Gough Ink's credits are the scripts for Disney's "Shanghai Noon," its follow-up "Shanghai Nights" and DreamWorks' "I am Four.In . For Disney, they are also creating "Zed," which Susannah Grant is scripting using the final occasions of Texas secondary school theater teacher Lynn Shaw. The duo can also be during the time of creating the Sylvester Stallone actioner "Bullet for the Mind," using the French graphic novel "Du Plomb Dans La Tete," that Warner Bros. will release next season. For TV, Gough and Millar were showrunners relating to this season's "Charlie's Angels," for ABC, and oversaw the CW's "Smallville," which recently ended its 10-year run.Lee, who created Marvel's Spider-Guy, Iron Guy, Thor, the X-Males as well as the Incredible Hulk figures, recently also locked lower Serta Gilroy ("Real Steel") to evolve his comicbook "The Annihilator" in to a bigscreen actioner specific at Asian areas. Contact Marc Graser at marc.graser@variety.com

Vans Shoes Designer James Van Doren Dies; Footwear Became National Fad After 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High'

There's a damning set of statistics presented at the beginning of Under Fire: Journalists in Combat that give it a haunting immediacy. It seems that a mere two journalists were killed in World War I, and 63 journalists lost their lives in World War II. Contrast that with 1397 members of the news media killed in the ten years between 1996 and 2006.our editor recommendsTripoli, Libya Hotel Holds Trapped Journalists (Video)London Riots: Journalists Under Attack Share Stories From the Front LinesChina Roughs up Journalists over 'Strolling' Protests That precipitous rate of mortality, as well as an alarming rise in kidnappings and torture, has led journalists to be at increased risk for such conditions as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder and substance abuse. Martin Burke's documentary, currently on the shortlist for an Oscar nomination, provides interviews with a series of prominent war correspondents and photographers who provide vivid testimony as to both the hazards and the allures of the profession. Although the film's series of talking heads interviews--accompanied by flashy visuals and interspersed with often graphic and disturbing combat footage-hardly breaks any new aesthetic ground, the technique is generally effective. That's because the subjects, each of whom is accompanied by a list of their scarily extensive combat credits-- are an almost uniformly articulate, insightful group who frequently prove themselves capable of analyzing their own complex motivations. Thus you have Chris Hedges, a Pulitzer Prize-winning NY Times correspondent and author of War is the Force That Gives Us Meaning, describing himself as being a "war junkie"-"In the same way a drug physically breaks down an addict, I was being broken down by war," he explains. Finbarr O'Reilly, a Reuter's photojournalist who is seen being given onscreen therapy by the film's co-producer, psychiatrist Dr. Anthony Feinstein, admits that he had a compulsion to get into the war: "You sort of resign yourself to the fact that you're probably going to get hurt and just hope that it isn't too badly when it happens." The film, which borrows part if its title from Roger Spottiswoode's superb 1983 film drama about war journalists in Nicaragua, also explores the sort of moral issues haunting war journalists. Paul Watson of The Los Angeles Times describes his lingering guilt over having photographed the corpse of a U.S. soldier being dragged through the streets of Mogadishu, while BBC correspondent Jeremy Bowen is haunted by his decision to stop at a certain location, only to then watch a colleague get killed just a short distance away (we see the live footage). There will hopefully come a time when this documentary will come to seem a piece of vintage history. But right now that time seems a long ways away. Bottom Line: Harrowing documentary details the traumas of combat journalism. Mercury Media International. Production: JUF Pictures. Director/screenwriter: Martyn Burke. Producers: Martyn Burke, Anthony Feinstein. Executive producer: Laura Morton. Director of photography: Donald Purser. Editor: Christopher McEnroe. Music: Mark Korven. No rating, 90 min.

Amy Retzinger & Take advantage of Golenberg Exit Gersh

EXCLUSIVE: Veteran Gersh TV lit agents Amy L. Retzinger and Take advantage of Golenberg have remaining the company. Both have been there for over a decade. The move is really a fallout from Gersh’s recent hire of CAA TV lit agent Roy Ashton as Partner and Mind from the Television Literary Department and a part of a restructuring in the department under Ashton. Forthcoming nexus s that Retzinger is headed to upstart Verve, while Golenberg is incorporated in the procedure for beginning a representation/production business, that they will probably announce following the first of the season.

Police Arrest 4 Occupy L.A. Protesters After Midnight Evacuation Deadline Ignored

NY - Shares of Madison Square Garden Co. rose more than 10 percent in early Monday trading following an agreement in the NBA labor dispute. As of 10:25am ET, the stock of MSG was up 11.2 percent at $28.65. That gave the company, which is controlled by the Dolan family, a market value of $2.1 billion. Miller Tabak analyst David Joyce early Monday upgraded his rating on MSG from "neutral" to "buy" and lifted his shorter-term price target to $30 from $27, citing the apparent end of the labor dispute. And Morgan Stanley analyst Benjamin Swinburne, in a report entitled "Game On," wrote that "the likely end of the NBA lockout is an incremental positive for MSG shares - both in terms of near-term earnings and the removal of a major overhang." The benefit of the proposed 66 game season versus his prior assumption of 50 games "should have a modest positive impact on earnings per share," he added. Swinburne also commented on the NY Knicks, which MSG owns. "The new deal brings harsher luxury tax penalties, which should help to limit the payrolls of high-revenue teams such as the Knicks," he said. A labor agreement unveiled this weekend is tentative and still needs approvals, but would get the season started on Dec. 25. Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com Twitter: @georgszalai Related Topics Cablevision

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

Bloomberg/Getty Images Jimmy Fallon has apologized to Republican presidential hopeful Bachmann Wanted for that introduction which was performed when she made an appearance on his show Monday.our editor recommendsMichele Bachmann Condemned with Song by 'Jimmy Fallon' BandMichele Bachmann's Campaign Manager Calls CBS News Producer a 'Piece of S---' Among 'Media Bias' Accusations PHOTOS: Hollywood's Memorable Mea Culpas Once the Minnesota Congresswoman arrived on the scene to greet Fallon, the Late Evening With Jimmy Fallon house band, The Roots, welcomed her using the 1985 Fishbone song known as "Lyin' Ass B--ch." Fallon tweeted Tuesday, "I'm honored that @michelebachmann was on our show yesterday and that i'm so sorry concerning the intro mess. I am hoping she returns." PHOTOS: Bachmann Wanted around the Campaign Trail The song choice was belittled by many people, including Fox News' Todd Stames, who authored, "Would you let's suppose the network had drawn an identical stunt with First Lady Michelle Obama or Secretary of Condition Hillary Clinton? NBC isn't leaving comments and Fallon does not have the symptoms of the fortitude to reply. So let me complete the blanks: NBC, you disgust me." Stames continued to slam Fallon, "For Fallon, what's there to say of a guy who makes his living playing pretend? He's a sniveling, inurbane court jester who degrades women." PHOTOS: 10 Artists Dems and Republicans Like to Hate Democratic Congresswoman Nita Lowey known as the incident "insulting and inappropriate" inside a statement Tuesday, "The option of song introducing Bachmann Wanted on Late Evening With Jimmy Fallon last evening was insulting and inappropriate. I don't share Bachmann Wanted's politics, but she warrants to become given respect. No female politician -- with no lady -- ought to be exposed to sexist and offensive innuendo like she was last evening. The Roots, Jimmy Fallon, and NBC should apologize." The Roots' drummer Questlove had notified his Twitter fans from the pending song choice on Monday. He told The Hollywood Reporter that Fallon and producers was not told about this ahead of time, "The performance would be a tongue-in-oral cavity and sporadically decision. The show was unaware of it and that i feel below par if her feelings were hurt. Which was not my intention." Jimmy Fallon Late Evening With Jimmy Fallon Politics Bachmann Wanted

Hot Trailer: The Woman In Black

A completely new, more tightly edited trailer for your Lady In Black doesn’t skimp round the chills readily available for Daniel Radcliffe when he travelsto an online village to remain a deceased clients matters.James Watkins directs in the script by Jane Goldman (Kick-Ass, Your Financial Troubles, X-Males: Top Quality, Stardust) modified from Susan Hill’s novel. Jesse McTeer also stars inside the CBS Films release slated to start February 3.

New on DVD and Blu-ray, Week of Nov. 15: 'Beginners,' 'Larry Crowne,' 'My Fair Lady' and 'West Side Story'

A pair of romantic comedies highlight the home entertainment releases this week. At one end of the spectrum is the low-key but thoroughly entertaining indie 'Beginners,' a funny and sad tale of a commitment-phobic young man whose father comes out of the closet in his 70s just before being diagnosed with terminal cancer. At the other end is the lackluster 'Larry Crowne,' a star-studded studio production about a middle-aged man who has to reinvent himself after losing his long-time job. Small is better. Read on. 'Beginners' What It's About: Director-writer Mike Mills ('Thumbsucker') has a unique take on life in this lovingly told story of a father, a son and a dog. Chistopher Plummer plays the father, a man who has hidden his homosexuality from his son (Ewan McGregor) for decades. Now that his wife has died, Plummer decides to spill the beans to McGregor, who has his own problems with women ... he can't seem to commit to one. The hook: Plummer's character is dying of cancer, so there's little time for the pair to get close. But with the help of a smooth talking dog (in subtitles), and a clever script, father and son find a deep bond in this touching and continuously entertaining story. It's Kinda Like: 'Greenberg' meets 'Sideways' What We Say: This heartwarming story hits all the right notes about the way family members might stray from each other ... and then come together before it's too late. The script paints its three-dimensional characters with plenty of heart and great courage, creating personalities and situations that are about as real as fiction can aspire to. And don't forget that talking (and very smart) pooch, who steals the show and displays as much of the script's humor as the humans do. This charming indie outing has great performances by Plummer and McGregor, and by Goran Visnjic and Melanie Laurent as the men's respective lovers. Watch it with a very close friend. • Extras: Commentary by writer-director Mills, 'A Short Film About Making Beginners.' Rotten Tomatoes Reviews | Buy DVD | Save DVD to your Netflix queue Watch a trailer: 'Larry Crowne' What It's About: Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts come together for a romantic comedy about how it's never too late to reinvent yourself. When he suddenly is laid off from his long-standing blue-collar job, Larry Crowne (Hanks) enrolls at his local college to start over. There, he becomes part of an eclectic community of students and develops a crush on his teacher (Roberts), whose passion for teaching -- and her husband -- have waned. Naturally Hanks reinvigorates Roberts while learning his own lesson about finding one's place in the world. It's Kinda Like: 'Last Chance Harvey' meets 'Back to School' What the Critics Say: Despite the mega-star power of Hanks and Roberts, 'Larry Crowne' fizzled at the box office. And the critics weren't enthralled by the film: "When it comes to unemployment-themed cinema, I'll take the greater realism of last year's 'The Company Men' or this year's 'Everything Must Go' over Hanks's too rosy vision of life after the pink slip," Time magazine's Mary F. Pols said. Anthony Lane of the NYer chimed in with "To pluck romantic comedy from the jaws of a social crisis is a laudable project, worthy of Preston Sturges, and it's a pity that this featherlight drama -- written by Tom Hanks and Nia Vardalos, and directed by Hanks himself -- should falter in its task." And, lastly, Ella Taylor of NPR said: "Neither fish nor fowl, 'Larry Crowne' skitters between pathos and shtick, wasting abundant acting talent as it goes." On the other hand, David Edelstein of NY Magazine said "The film is sometimes gentle to the point of blandness, but it's never flimsy." And Roger Moore of the Orlando Sentinel smacked his lips over the film: "It's perfectly pleasant ... comfort food -- meatloaf, potatoes and apple cobbler served as bubbly Tom Petty and ELO tunes waft from the soundtrack." • Extras: Deleted scenes and behind-the-scene featurettes. Rotten Tomatoes Reviews | Buy DVD | Save DVD to your Netflix queue Watch a trailer: Blu-ray Debuts: 'My Fair Lady': (1964) George Cukor's classic musical version of George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion' starred Audrey Hepburn -- at the peak of her career -- and Rex Harrison, whose turn as Professor Henry Higgins resurrected his sagging career. Though corny by today's standards, the film still holds up, with gorgeous cinematography by Harry Stradling Sr. (who photographed the 1939 film version of 'Pygmalion') and wonderful songs by Lerner and Loewe. 'The Rules of the Game': (1939) Considered one of the greatest films ever made, Jean Renoir's classic is a scathing critique of corrupt French society cloaked in a comedy of manners, in which a weekend at a marquis's countryside chateau lays bare some ugly truths about a group of haute bourgeois acquaintances. Still stunning and beautiful -- and pertinent -- after seven decades. 'Three Colors: Blue, White, Red': (1993-94) A boldly cinematic trio of stories about love and loss from Krzysztof Kieslowski. The films were named for the colors of the French flag and stand for the tenets of the French Revolution -- ­liberty, equality, and fraternity -- with each film using the title symbol to examine a group of ambiguously interconnected people experiencing tragedy to comedy in their personal lives. 'Red' was Kieslowski's last film -- he died at age 54 during open-heart surgery following a heart attack in 1996. 'West Side Story': (1961) Five decades after its historic debut, the iconic musical returns in a 50th anniversary hi-def edition. With a record-breaking 10 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Directing and Best Original Score, the 1961 film took home more awards than any other movie-musical in the history of cinema. This monumental production not only features the timeless lyrics from master American composer Stephen Sondheim, but a brilliant score from Leonard Bernstein and beautiful direction by Robert Wise and co-director and choreographer Jerome Robbins. Stars Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, Simon Oakland, Ned Glass, William Bramley and Tucker Smith. Watch an exclusive Blu-ray clip: Other New November 15 Releases: 'Bellflower': (2011) Best friends Woodrow and Aiden spend all of their free time building "Mad Max"-inspired flamethrowers and muscle cars in preparation for a global apocalypse. But when Woodrow meets a charismatic young woman and falls hard in love, he and Aiden quickly integrate into a new group of friends, setting off on a journey of love and hate, betrayal, infidelity, and extreme violence. Written, directed by and starring Glodell, the film is a heartfelt story of obsession, friendship, and young-love gone awry, showcasing Glodell's real-life creations: homemade flamethrowers and a fire-spewing 1972 Buick Skylark, Medusa. A painfully honest and quirky film 'Flypaper': (2011) A nervous bank customer tries to thwart two gangs of robbers -- a high-tech trio who plan to break into the vault, and two dumb hicks whose idea of a big score is knocking off the ATMs -- who both descend on the building, setting off a gun fight and taking everyone hostage. Stars Patrick Dempsey, Ashley Judd, Jeffrey Tambor, Mekhi Phifer, Curtis Armstrong and Tim Blake Nelson. 'Griff the Invisible': (2011) Griff, a shy and awkward office worker by day, finds escape from his ordinary, "invisible" life by assuming the identity of a fantastic superhero each night. But his secret is jeopardized when he meets Melody, a cute but unconventional daydreamer who quickly becomes fascinated by his idiosyncrasies, which are equal only to her own, and who takes it upon herself to rescue him. A warm, loving "underdog" superhero romance -- that could have used tighter editing -- with offbeat, engaging characters. Stars Ryan Kwanten and Maeve Dermody. Watch an exclusive clip: 'Highway Patrol Man': (1999) Director Alex Cox's ('Repo Man') Mexican cult film fav has finally made its way to DVD. Against his father's wishes, Pedro -- a naive kid from Mexico City -- joins the Federal Highway Patrol but his simple desire to do good rapidly comes into conflict with the reality of police work in a lonely rural environment populated by poor farmers, rich drug dealers, beautiful women, and his father's ghost. Stars Roberto Sosa, Bruno Bichir and Vanessa Bauche. 'Rio Sex Comedy': (2010) A mixed group of tourists and visitors on a working trip find themselves footloose and under the sway of the Brazilian city's erotic spell. Stars Charlotte Rampling, Bill Pullman, Irene Jacob, Jean-Maric Roulot. 'Walk a Mile in My Pradas': (2010) Two weeks before his wedding, a homophobic young man is turned gay -- and his ridiculed gay co-worker turned straight -- by a magical Christmas tree. Stars Nathaniel Marston, Tom Archdeacon, Tom Arnold, Mike Starr, Dee Wallace and Kirsten Lea. Check out more November 15 DVD releases at OnVideo. Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

David Yates, 'Harry Potter' Director, To Produce New 'Doctor Who' For That Large-Screen

Using the finish of 'Deathly Hallows,' 'Harry Potter' fans searching for another grand British adventure could get their fix in 'Doctor Who.' Variety reviews that David Yates -- the director behind four from the 'Potter' movie adaptations, including both areas of 'The Deathly Hallows' -- is searching to build up a large-screen version of times-traveling Physician. Without having three hrs to kill reading through among Wikipedia's biggest pages, think about this the CliffsNotes version: 'Doctor Who' may be the longest-running, most effective sci-fi show ever, along with a touchstone of British popular culture. The Physician is really a world-exploring alien who travels with the cosmos in the TARDIS, a period machine formed just like a police box. He's usually supported with a spunky female companion and the finest enemy may be the Daleks, a race of cybernetic aliens located in roaming personalized tanks. Physician Who also is able to regenerate his body when near to dying, the industry handy method of explaining away the eleven stars who've described the part since 1963. The show presently airs on BBC One out of the United kingdom and stateside on BBC America, with star Matthew Cruz. Since you are all swept up, you'll gladly realize that this planned movie version is a brand-new version not attached to the TV show's lengthy mythology. Yates describes that you simply "need to put that aside and begin on your own.Inch 'Doctor Who' was modified for movies two times before within the sixties with Peter Cushing (plus some liberal changes towards the mythos), however the BBC has battled to obtain a motion picture version off its ft for a long time. Yates is presently dealing with BBC Worldwide on getting a film writer, hinting that 'Harry Potter' scripter Steve Kloves could easily get the task: "We would like an english sensibility, but with that said, Steve Kloves authored the Potter films and taken that British sensibility perfectly." If 'Doctor Who' becomes a complete-blown 'Potter' reunion behind-the-moments, expect the "Daniel Radcliffe because the Physician!" fan-campaign to begin up soon (whether it has not already). This provides for us a reason to publish the theme song, which we'll happily take. [Photo thanks to BBC America] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Kim Kardashian's Divorce Exposes Her Ambition for Fame and Money, Say Brand Experts (Analysis)

Kim Kardashian may not fully understand how Monday's quickie divorce filing has affected the way people look at her, otherwise known as her brand. Yet, experts in the marketing field already know that her actions have damaged her brand identity and threaten to change how the masses and future employers view her.our editor recommendsKardashians, Charlie Sheen Among Stars Earning Up to $71 Per Character for Sponsored TweetsE! Network's Kim Kardashian Wedding Encore Adds Special Divorce AnnouncementKim Kardashian Speaks Out About Divorce: 'It's Hard to Go Through Everything Right Now' (Video)Kris Jenner Tears Up While Discussing Kim Kardashian's Divorce on 'The View'Kim Kardashian's Marriage 'Wasn't a Sham,' Mom Says on 'Today' (Video)Related Topics•Kim Kardashian PHOTOS: 19 of Hollywood's All-Time Shortest Marriages "She's completely betrayed the expectations of her brand, because she was a girl with ordinary values, ordinary hopes and dreams who happened to be very glamorous and exotic and happened to be living a very extraordinary life," President and Brand Strategist at NY's Truth Consulting, Linda Ong, tells The Hollywood Reporter. Ong's company produces a comprehensive biannual cultural analysis of reality TV, which they started in January 2010. "Now, what she's done is shown that she is as shallow as people like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan and the train wrecks of Hollywood that we detest," Ong continues. "She's exposed herself as really not one of us, but someone who is the kind of person we thought she wasn't." PHOTOS: Inside Kardashian Inc. Christine Kirk, CEO and founder of the Los Angeles-based boutique PR and social media marketing firm, Social Muse Communications, also believes that damage has been done to Kardashian's brand, though she doesn't call the affect "shallow." "Now, what shes done is shown that she is as shallow as people like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan and the train wrecks of Hollywood that we detest" -- Linda Ong, brand strategist "I think it's more about revealing her desire, her hunger for continuing to grow this empire that she's built," Kirk says. "And I don't necessarily think it's shallowness, I think it's getting caught up in maybe dollar signs and the overall potential that the wedding could have on her overall brand and her empire. And I think that she revealed that." PHOTOS: Hollywood's Top Earners Kardashian's actions after the divorce filing was confirmed didn't help with the impression that she was driven by monetary gain either. Kirk points out that soon after the news broke, Kardashian tweeted that she's leaving for Australia to launch her and her sisters' Kardashian Kollection handbag line. "It was literally posted about an hour after the divorce announcement was made," Kirk says. "And that was kind of the last message on there for at least 24 hours and I just thought it was an ill-timed tweet." STORY: 10 Signs Kim Kardashian's Marriage Was One Big Hoax All Along And then there was the statement she released on Tuesday where she admitted that she should have called off the wedding, but she was caught up in the "hoopla" of the event, E!'s filming of it, and her fear of disappointing everyone involved. "I think it was a very calculated effort to make her more relatable," Ong says of the statement. "I think what it did was prove she was materialistic, because the fact that she's cited the TV show is a big clue, right? It's not that 'I didn't want to disappoint my family.' It was like 'We had a TV show.' It tells you that the goals were fame and money." COVER STORY: How the Kardashians Made $65 Million Last Year "And you know the fact that she didn't want disappoint people, sure everybody can relate to that," Ong adds. "But the reasons that she gave for going on with the show are literally that her primary motivation was she had to make good TV, so she could make money, and stay famous and get endorsements and that is what's obvious in her statement." "While she's known for her sponsorships and things like that," Kirk says. "Maybe people didn't realize just how much this kind of thing takes over. And we've seen that it's kind of taken over Kim in that way." STORY: Kim Kardashian, Kris Humphries' Divorce By the Numbers So, the big question is will Kardashian's divorce and subsequent actions affect her ability to make money. The experts tell us there are still opportunities for her even if the public's view of her has changed. "When people hire and when they do endorsement deals they are looking to have the same qualities and the same credibility as the person that's endorsing them," Ong explains. "She was impulsive and flighty and naive or money hungry. I mean none of these things are good qualities." "It will depend on the brand," Kirk says. "Certainly, conservative, family-oriented brands won't want to hire her for their spokesperson. But, there will be others who don't care and will want to ride the wave of the buzz around this." STORY: Kim Kardashian Divorce Caught E! by Surprise, Holding Emergency Meetings One thing is for sure among the brand experts that THR has spoken to, though. The upcoming new season of Kourtney and Kim Take NY will have no shortage of viewers. "If anything, there's even more of a fascination now with Kim Kardashian," Bob Horowitz, President of Reality TV production company, JUMA Entertainment (Ultimate Merger, The Singing Bee) tells THR. "This will be huge for the Kardashian brand on E!." "It will be kind of similar to the Taylor Armstrong situation with the Real Housewives," Kirk, who's careful to point out that big fans of the reality star will probably rally around her, but brand identity includes how the masses view a product. And she says that curiosity will definitely translate into big numbers for the upcoming series. STORY: Kim Kardashian Flees Australia Amid Divorce Controversy "People are going to want to tune in just to see what they can see, to read between the lines and see the events leading up to a tragic event," she says. On the other hand, while Kardashian's brand has suffered as a result of the failed marriage and her actions after the divorce filing, the experts agree that her family's brand has been greatly strengthened by their support of Kim at this time. "I think they're doing everything right," Ong says. "I think you know their whole message is family, family, family. 'We stand by our sister. We stand by our daughter.' What they're communicating to the public are exactly this ordinary person values. Some people will buy it, but other people are going to say "yeah right.' I think if I was their communication strategist, I would give them the same advice. The worst the family could do is turn against her." Email: Jethro.Nededog@thr.com; Twitter:@TheRealJethro Related Topics Khloe Kardashian Kim Kardashian Kourtney Kardashian Kris Jenner E! Keeping Up With the Kardashians

'Hangover' and 'Twilight' Actresses Joining CBS Films' '7500' (Exclusive)

Getty Images Jamie Chung, Christian Serratos of The Twilight Saga and Scout Taylor-Compton have joined the cast of CBS Films' airborne thriller 7500.our editor recommends'Twilight': Behind the Scenes of the Saga's First Film'Twilight: Breaking Dawn': New Images From the Pentultimate Film in the Saga Leslie Bibb, Ryan Kwanten and Amy Smart are already on board the creeper, which is being directed by Takashi Shimizu (The Grudge). The story follows a group of passengers on a trans-Pacific flight who run into strange, possibly supernatural problems. PHOTOS: 'Twilight': Behind the Scenes of the Saga's First Film Chung is a newly-engaged flight attendant on her first flight working alongside Bibb while Taylor-Compton is one of the passengers described as having a "unique perspective on death." Serratos will play a woman who shares a secret with her boyfriend prior to boarding. (At this stage, this is threatening to be one of the best-looking flights in all of moviedom.) Lost writer Craig Rosenberg penned the screenplay.Grudge producer Taka Ichise is producing along with Roy Lee (The Ring). Chung may be best known as Ed Helm's fiancée in The Hangover Part 2 and also co-starred in Zack Snyder's Sucker Punch. The Gersh-repped actress will next be seen opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt in Premium Rush. PHOTOS: 'Twilight: Breaking Dawn': New Images From the Pentultimate Film in the Saga Taylor-Compton, repped by Gersh, portrayed Lita Ford in The Runaways and also played the lead in the recent Halloween remakes. WME-repped Serratos is best known for her work in the Twilight movie, playing a character who is perhaps the only human friend of Bella, played by Kristen Stewart. Christian Serratos CBS Films Twilight Jamie Chung

AFM 2011: Possible Moving to Downtown La Sparks Outrage

Among mounting potential to deal with a move from Santa Monica to downtown La by many people purchasers and retailers, there's a veiled threat towards the American Film Market: If you achieve this wrong, we might not require your market.our editor recommendsAmerican Film Market Owner Verifies Foretells Proceed to Downtown L.A.American Film Market Thinking about Large Move From Santa Monica to Downtown L.A. (Exclusive) "When they move downtown I'll need to wonder if I ought to come whatsoever," stated Ruediger Boess, purchases mind for European broadcaster ProSiebenSat 1. "You will find many film marketplaces all over the world and also the effective ones are the type that consider their participants," reads a petition being circulated in the AFM to stay in Santa Monica. "We don't want to become packed into soulless places in the center of a crowded downtown." Jeffrey Beach, Boss for UFO Worldwide Productions, stated purchasers have told him "it is a hindrance to maneuver it downtown." He stated some purchasers check this out as arrogance through the AFM, which reminds them of once the market was moved from The month of january to November killing the MIFED market in Milan. "The purchasers continue to be furious about this,Inch stated Beach. "The (AFM) functions just like you put available on the market, the purchasers can come, and that is not the situation. They are able to easily send sales men (all over the world) and bypass the forex market and remain in Europe. There's Berlin now, which is a brand privileges market there's film festivals and there is the MIPs. You actually have no need for the forex market.Inch Julie Sultan, mind of sales for W2 Media, stated many purchasers wish to discuss a potential move and many don't like the thought: "People resist change. They enjoy being through the pier. That like the restaurants n Santa Monica. It's normal to feel some resistance." However, she thinks the purchasers goes in which the movies are now being offered, and she or he doubts it might get rid of the sell to move. "I recall years back they stated nobody visits Berlin in Feb," stated Sultan, "and today counseled me there." A buyer who would like to remain anonymous, however, stated the AFM could hurt itself. He stated using the rise from the market at Toronto "being an unofficial marketplace for project pitches and pre-sales and also the development of business at Berlin's European Film Market, the AFM gets squashed out." Jonathan Wolf, the AFM's controlling director, stated a week ago that no decision has yet occurred. "There is not any emergency," stated Wolf. "Any move continues to be 2 yrs away. Lots of backwards and forwards is happening.Inch A resource stated IFTA board people are utilizing the forex market to complete a casual survey from the purchasers, especially individuals originating from outdoors the U.S. "We are searching for stability," stated the board member. Two several weeks ago the AFM confirmed it had been thinking about a proceed to the L.A. Live complex and also the nearby L.A. Convention Center. The impetus was that in discussions to resume, the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel requested elevated costs. That brought to some bid through the Anschutz Company which is the owner of L.A. Live and it is searching for a powerful anchor tenant. L.A. Live has over 5.six million sq ft of ballrooms, bars, restaurants, concert theaters, an apartment tower and hotels, together with a 879-room JW Marriott and 123 room Ritz Carlton Hotel. Tests downtown could be inside a multiplex operated by Regal Entertainment Group, that has 14 screens and three,772 seats. Which includes the Regal Premiere House, that has 806 seats, continues to be promoted for movie premieres That's attractive to some within the AFM, who've complained you will find no theaters in Santa Monica for red-colored carpet premieres. Presently tests are split among 23 screens around the Third Street Promenade, and screening rooms produced at two area hotels. Santa Monica has taken care of immediately the threat. Based on the Santa Monica Convention & Site visitors Bureau, the AFM brings business throughout their off-season to cause a minimum of $16 million in direct investing (hotels, restaurants) and $700,000 from hotel taxes. "It is also an incredible marketing chance for that destination, with more than 7,000 participants hailing from around the globe,Inch stated Misti Kerns, Leader and Boss from the SM Visitor's Bureau. Kim Baker from the visitor's bureau stated the theater situation will quickly improve. A brand new AMC Theater complex with 12 theaters opens in mid-2014. The Loews has additionally woken up, and posted a lesser bid to IFTA, making a general change in management. Paul Leclerc, that has been controlling director since September, stated, "We absolutely want the film sell to remain within the Loews." A resource near to the IFTA stated that whenever the marketplace, the board will come across to go over a move. However, that does not always mean a fast decision. Georg Szalai and Scott Roxborough led for this article. Related Subjects AFM AFM 2011

New Movie Reviews: 'Tower Heist,' 'A Very Harold & Kumar three dimensional Christmas,' 'The Boy of No One' Striking Theaters

The very first weekend of November sees two large comedies opening together with a bittersweet rock dramedy along with a gritty cop drama.our editor recommendsEddie Murphy States John Grazer Saved 'Tower Heist' (Video)Ben Stiller Discloses 'Zoolander' Follow up Secrets Way forward for the Fockers and What He Thinks about 'Tower Heist' Co-Star Eddie Murphy as Oscar HostEddie Murphy in 'Tower Heist': Exactly what the Experts Say Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy in 'Tower Heist' Trailer (Video)'Charlotte Rampling: The Look' Puts the Actress' Style within the SpotlightSUNDANCE: Al Pacino-Katie Holmes The Boy of Nobody Tanks, Prompts Walkouts 'Tower Heist' Director Brett Ratner Apologizes for Epilepsy Joke in Movie's Trailer (Video) Universal takes the lead withBrett Ratner's comic caper flickTower Heist.LiketheOcean's series, Heist posseses an all-star cast, includingBen Stilleras the straight guy, Eddie Murphyas therude, confrontational wiseass and Alan Alda because the Bernie Madoff-like swindler. PHOTOS: 'Ben Stiller Show' Alumni: Where Could They Be Now? Another large comedy premiering a few days ago may be the third installment in theHarold & Kumar series, A Really Harold & Kumar 3DChristmas,from Warner Bros./New Line Cinema. Also opening now is Killing Bono, aBritish dramedy about a set of siblings who attended school with U2but could never replicate their success as music artists. Around the serious side,Dito Montiel's Sundance movieSon of Nobody,from NuImage/Millennium Films,agritty cop drama about hidden secrets occur publish-9/11 NY starringAl Pacinoand Katie Holmes, opens in choose theaters. PHOTOS: ྌs Action Stars: Where Could They Be Now? Here's exactly what the Hollywood Reporter's experts have to say of individuals films -- yet others opening a few days ago -- and find out the way they are required to do in the box office: Tower Heist Brett Ratner's comic caper about colleagues who turn the tables on the Bernie Madoff type is really a easily designed crowd pleaser.Click the link to see Todd McCarthy's review. THR COVER STORY: Ben Stiller Discloses What He Thinks about 'Tower Heist' Co-Star Eddie Murphy Hosting the Academy awards A Really Harold & Kumar three dimensional Christmas It's Harold & Kumar versus. Christmas and, yes, Christmas wins out.Click the link to see Kirk Honeycutt's review. Charlotte now Rampling: The Appearance An engaging doc discloses lots of sweet Charlotte now together with just a little hush-hush.Click the link to see Jordan Mintzer's review. VIDEO: 'A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas' Red-colored Band Trailer: The 2nd Coming of Neil Patrick Harris The Boy of Nobody Atmospheric and intriguing, this cop movie turning around a hidden secret and occurring in 2 time frames stars Al Pacino and Katie Holmes.Click the link to see John DeFore's review. Killing Bono Modified from rock critic Neil McCormick's autobiography, Nick Hamm's British comedy stars Ben Barnes, Robert Sheehan and Krysten Ritter.Click the link to see Jordan Mintzer's review. VIDEO: Al Pacino, Channing Tatum Sport Badges, Mustaches in 'Son of Nobody' Trailer Youthful Goethe for each other German director Philipp Stölzl's film falls lightly between your stools of high-brow camping and genuine seduction by its many period charms, fine stars and lovely landscapes.Click the link to see John DeFore's review. Related Subjects Brett Ratner Channing Tatum Eddie Murphy Katie Holmes Al Pacino Ben Stiller The Boy of Nobody Tower Heist A Really Harold & Kumar three dimensional Christmas Charlotte now Rampling: The Appearance Killing Bono Youthful Goethe for each other

Ratings: The X Factor Establishing Itself as a Steady Performer

Lakoda Rayne Fresh off the announcement of a second season renewal (despite delivering far fewer than the 20 million Simon Cowell prophesied), The X Factor averaged 11.50 million viewers and 3.9 rating among 18-to-49-year-olds Wednesday night, preliminary Nielsen data shows. Cowell's sucky soothsaying aside, the singing competition has settled in as a steady, even stalwart, ratings performer. It got 11.78 million for its last outing. X Factor's Rachel Crow: I'm singing Etta James next (and Simon can't stop me!) Meanwhile, Modern Family keeps winning Wednesday night and this week entertained 13.28 million people and posting a 5.6 rating in the coveted demo - both highs for the night. Happy Endings had 7.85 million people (3.5 demo rating, tying its series high) tuning in at 9:30/8:30c. Also in prime time's middle hour: the night's second most-watched show Criminal Minds (12.80 million), NBC's Harry's Law (7.09 million) and America's Next Top Model on The CW (1.80 million). At 8/7, Survivor: South Pacific rounded up 11.87 million viewers on CBS, while ABC's The Middle grabbed 9.35 million and NBC's Up All Night 4.75 million. A repeat of The CW's Ringer got 1.20 million. Fall TV Survey: You can't get enough TV, can you? In the next half-hour, Suburgatoryscored 8.49 million people while a rerun of Up All Night managed 3.39 million. In the final prime-time hour, CBS' CSI: Crime Scene Investigation attracted 10.64 million fans; ABC's Revenge drew 8.57 million (its second straight increase); and NBC's Law & Order: Special Victims Unit was watched by 7.04 million. But again, Revenge - the No. 1 new show, according to TVGuide.com survey -- won the demo fight with a 3.0.

Kris Humphries: I am Devastated That Kim Declared Divorce

Kris Humphries and Kim Kardashian Kris Humphries is not quitting on his marriage to Kim Kardashian at this time. "I am devoted to this marriage and everything this covenant signifies. I really like my spouse and am devastated to understand she declared divorce ... I am prepared to do whatever needs doing to really make it work," he told TMZ. Kim Kardashian divorcing Kris Humphries Kardashian, 31, declared divorce Monday in the 26-year-old professional basketball player after just 72 times of marriage. Celebs respond to Kim Kardashian's divorce "After consideration, I've made the decision to finish my marriage," Kardashian stated inside a statement to Ryan Seacrest. "I really hope everybody knows it was no easy decision. I'd wished this marriage was forever, but sometimes everything doesn't appear. We remain buddies and desire one another the very best.Inch The happy couple get married in August after eight several weeks of dating.

Miranda involves 'Merrily'

Lin-Manuel Miranda will topline the city Center Encores! presentation of "Merrily We Roll Along" in the year. Miranda, the Tony-winning creator and star of "Inside the Levels," look with Celia Keenan-Bolger ("Peter as well as the Starcatcher") and Colin Donnell ("Anything Goes") in Stephen Sondheim's 1981 tuner in regards to the disintegrating friendship from the songwriting duo, told backwards chronological order. Betsy Wolfe and Elizabeth Stanley will are also made of the show, being helmed by frequent Sondheim collaborator James Lapine and choreographed by Serta Knechtges ("Lysistrata Manley"). "Merrily," getting a magazine by George Furth good 1934 follow George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, will be a flop within the original Broadway bow but has since gone onto be considered a cult fave among legit fans. City Center's Encores! centers presents an annual season of limited-run, concert-staged revivals of Primary Stem tuners, with past activities yielding Broadway transfers including "Chicago" and "Finian's Rainbow." The series' approaching staging of little-seen "Merrily" already remains extended beyond the traditional one-weekend-only operate on most Encores! shows, getting a 2-week stint set to see Feb. 8-19. Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com

Acad muzzles the clink and guzzle scene

In the town that loves to celebrate itself, the premier award-giving org limits lavish parties for Oscar competitors quite normal for 'The Social Network' together with other 2009 photos.When Jennifer Aniston situated a The month of the month of january screening of "Biutiful" to showcase Javier Bardem's Acad-nominated performance, it made an appearance as being a passionate way of an Oscar champion showing support on her behalf "Eat Pray Love" co-star. However, as truly sincere as Roberts may have been in their enthusiasm for your movie, her private event and subsequent effusive interview with Entertainment Weekly only decided to be another stop around the campaign trail that was regarded as as overrun with Academy people trying to wield their affect around the Oscar election. Even honours campaigners ended this year's-11 season thinking arrived for something different.It might appear as being a champagne problem to anybody outdoors Hollywood, but firming lower the round of glitzy publish-nomination receptions and member-backed tests has converted into important for your Academy of motion Picture Arts & Sciences. Changes passed this season present rules for from the quantity of Q&A periods through which anybody connected getting a movie may participate lower to when food can accompany a screening.Though a correctly-placed campaigner states last season's festivities had become somewhat "unseemly," the Academy's changes, no less than for your publish-nom period of time, tend to be about maintaining the worth and integrity in the award itself. Really, losing the credibility of the 8 1/2-pound trophy is not great for publicists, party coordinators and so on print guides as Variety -- any entity that has aided turn honours season into Honours Season."The perception the Academy Award could be bought might be the final factor anybody wants," states veteran honours consultant and Academy member Tony Angellotti.Another campaigner states 5-week glow Oscar nominees enjoy just before the ceremony needs to be about letting the task speak alone, rather than making the nominee speak for your be employed in a never-ending procession of sections, parties and pressing palms. Wise words should you be described as a circuit veteran like Meryl Streep or Tom Hanks, nevertheless it could transform the whole process with an actor who's studying the hurry from the nomination the very first time.Most campaigners the rule changes did little to affect their daily, even though it's most likely prone to mean most occasions and tests can happen inside the pre-nomination several days."Many of us are testing it at this time around,Inch states strategist Lisa Taback. "We must respect the recommendations. I'd rather not condition that they're good or bad.InchObviously no modifications can quell whisper campaigns after Oscar nominations are introduced Jan. 24, but meanwhile, restrictions are somewhat lighter for pre-nomination campaigning.Unlike previous years, campaigners can directly invite Academy individuals to tests and Q&As people cost nothing to visit and take in the food offered there. Along with this being very good news for publicists whose primary goal is to find as much people as you can for the movies they represent, furthermore, it serves the Academy's intention to own its people films round the bigscreen (an insurance policy on digital delivery and screeners notwithstanding).Encouraging theatergoing dovetails to the Academy's other major move, which leaves room for between five and ten best picture nominations, in line with the quantity of films earn a No. 1 ranking round the ballot.It's largely a go to correct a couple of from the natural record anomalies in the Academy's voting process, but it's also keeping prognosticators and campaigners alert. Still, most campaigners aren't counting votes to uncover where their films stand. They're still carrying it out the old-fashioned way: getting people into theaters, gauging reactions and disbursing the word regarding films.Honours SEASON LAUNCH:Acad muzzles the clink and guzzle scene New rules redraw Oscar's picture, doc, toon races Tricky photos spend years in route Fest test weeds out essentially Oscar's best Contact Christy Grosz at christy.grosz@variety.com

'Paranormal Activity 3' Hits Theaters, Reveals New Clip

The Next installment inside the "Paranormal Activity" franchise creeps into theaters a couple of days ago. To help you prepare for supernatural chills, there's a sixth viral clip that has been released. "Catfish" company company directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman direct the film that finds a young Katie (from the second films), and her sister Kristi fighting evil. The most recent clip shows more found footage, set throughout the evening inside the mattress room. Vital has associated with their grassroots, viral marketing campaign for your film since Oren Peli's 2007 movie. Mysterious VHS tapes simply labeled while using date, 1988 were passed around to several websites, revealing similar found footage. See what terror that certain includes by clicking the next. Hit the break for further Horror Bites! "The Frozen Ground" Can get Their Girl It's been too extended since we now have had news in regards to the Nicolas Cage serial killer movie, "The Frozen Ground." We miss hair, Nic! "Crazy Eyes" Cage plays an Alaskan condition trooper monitoring a killer named Hansen. (It's bad that we could consider is "MMMBop", right?) "Large Love's" Katherine LaNasa been cast as Hansen's (John Cusack) wife inside the film. She's one of the handful of women the well-known psychopath hasn't kidnapped and hunted like game inside the backwoods. Lucky! Sorry, "The Culling" Isn't associated with The Cullens Presently shooting in New Orleans, "The Culling" finds five pals within the commonest but never tiring horror situations ever. The college pals anticipate trading a pleasurable-filled weekend together on holiday, however itinerary changes when something evil can get in the way. After finding an abandoned 7-year-old girl within an empty caf, the pals drive her home, but they don't realize that the nightmare awaits them in the home after they arrive to stay for your evening. People behind "Machine Gun Preacher" and "Black Swan" are coming up with that certain, meaning it will not suck. Jeremy Sumpter, Bret Davern, Elizabeth DiPrinzio, Chris Coy, Lindsey Godfrey, Virginia Williams, Jonathan Schaech and Harley Graham are starring inside the indie horror-thriller. "Ghost Driver: Spirit of Vengeance" Rides On Nic Cage makes another Horror Bites appearance now. The Spike TV Scream Honours opened up a clip within the approaching "Ghost Driver: Spirit of Vengeance." Mark Neveldine and John Taylor's new celebs Cage since the hell-on-wheels biker Johnny Blaze (Also called Ghost Driver), and that he is not searching too happy in this clip. Ghost Rider's sequestered themselves in Eastern Europe trying to repress his curse, but he's used to fight the demon who want to possess a boy's body. The preview looks a lot better than the 2007 film, so possibly there's expect that certain. Notice all come down on February 17 next season. Zombie God George Romero Works "The Zombie Autopsies" Legendary "Evening in the Living Dead" director George A. Romero may be taunting us with fleshmunchers once more in the new film. A buddy in the director's written a novel referred to as "The Zombie Autopsies," which surrounds an "isolated group doing autopsies on zombies through the zombie apocalypse and racking your brains on what is triggered this. They are offered upon [a] discovery." Romero's new movie purports to be bloody good. "I wish it to be perfectly accurate, almost shockingly so," he told io9. "Piranha 3DD" Trailer is Absurd Fun Also within the Scream Honours now, a clip for "Piranha 3DD" arrived on the scene, also it does not dissatisfy. Up to now the film lives around its title, as you have seen within the multiple small bikinis inside the clip. David Hasselhoff. Ving Rhames, Christopher Lloyd, Danielle Panabaker plus much more also star inside the sea food flick that concentrates on angry piranha that dominate a waterpark a mecca for bare flesh. Reveal everything you consider this week's Horror Bites inside the comments and also on Twitter!

Spider-Man's Rhys Ifans's Lizard Voice Sounds Like a Screamo Gollum on Steroids

When Rhys Ifans crosses paths with Peter Parker & Co. as the villain The Lizard in the upcoming Spider-Man reboot, his performance will partially be obscured by CG accoutrements. But one element of the baddie should be a little more recognizable, even after, as Ifans suggests, audio effects will be employed to make him sound even more otherworldly. Not that he needed much help terrifying intrepid MTV reporter Josh Horowitz, as he did when he unleashed a voice akin to Gollum on steroids. Watch and listen for yourself after the jump. Get More: Movie Trailers, Movies Blog Pretty intimidating — I bet Ifans could front his own screamo-metal band — even if the mental image of Ifans in a green leotard isn’t quite so frightening. But you decide: does this seem like the kind of Lizard you’re hoping to see, Spidey fans? [via MTV]

Linda Cardellini Expecting Her First Child

Linda Cardellini Positive factor she formerly labored inside an ER. Linda Cardellini is pregnant along with her first child, People reviews. See the relaxation of current day news The actress, whose credits are the extended-running NBC hospital drama, the live-action Scooby-Doo movie franchise and Freaks and Brainiacs, is expecting her first baby with boyfriend Steven Rodriguez early next season. "They're excited to start a family group together," a repetition for your actress states.

Maria Grasso & Deb Spera Sell 3 Dramas, Including Modern-Day Treasure Island

In their first development season at their Sony Pictures TV-based One-Two Punch Prods., Maria Grasso and Deborah Spera have sold 3 projects to the broadcast networks: a modern-day Treasure Island written by Eagle Eye scribe John Glenn and astronaut drama Riding Rockets created by Peter Elkoff, both to NBC, and a family soap Heiress by Jennifer Robinson to ABC. Additionally, Grasso and Spera have Wayward Bound, an hourlong dramedy at USA created by novelist Richard Murphy (Confessions Of A Contractor), about the employees at a boutique tour guide company. Former Lifetime and OWN programming executive Grasso and former Mark Gordon Prods. president Spera, who met while working together on the Mark Gordon Prods.’ Lifetime series Army Wives, teamed up in June to launch One-Two Punch, which signed a two-year pod deal with Sony TV. Here are descriptions of the company’s broadcast projects: Glenn’s Treasure Island is described as a modern-day revisionist take on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel. Glenn’s concept postulates that the novel is based on real life events and characters and that Manhattan is actually the legendary Treasure Island. Elkoff’s Riding Rockets is inspired by Mike Mullanes memoir and tells his coming-of-age story of being an astronaut in the first class of NASA’s Space Shuttle program. The project tackles the rocky integration of women into NASA’s ranks, the fallout of the Challenger disaster and the growing frustration with government bureaucracy, all through Mike’s eyes. The Heiress, created by Imagine-exec-turned-screenwriter Jennifer Robinson, is an upstairs/downstairs-style soap. Inspired by a true story, it follows Huguette Clark, who upon her death, left behind a $100 million dollar, fully-staffed estate in Santa Barbara, which she hadn’t visited in decades.

Lionsgate, Roy Bank in unscripted pact

Lionsgate is plunging much much deeper into unscripted TV, announcing an over-all deal Tuesday with Roy Bank, former leader of television at Merv Griffin Entertainment. The studio will both enter a partnership with Bank's own shingle, Banca Studio, and obtain from MGE the expansion and development slate he was on while still with this particular company. One project that will arrived at Lionsgate consequently can be a new ABC game show, "Big Mind Game," which will premiere March. 23 inside an mid-evening slot. Among the other unscripted series that can come over from Banca include NBC summer season game show "It's Worth What?" and Bloomberg Television's "The Mentor." Before joining MGE in 2008, Bank offered as mind of production at Mark Burnett Prods., where his credits include "The Apprentice" and "Rockstar: INXS." "Roy includes the kind of expertise and business spirit we prize so highly," mentioned Kevin Beggs, leader of Lionsgate TV. "He's had impressive success becoming an innovative producer and industry executive, which we anticipate a fantastic collaboration." Lionsgate signaled its intent to accomplish more unscripted programming a year ago. In March, the studio inked Eli Frankel, senior V . p . development at Magical Elves, with a two-year overall deal with its TV division. Frankel aided shepherd reality hits including "Top Chef" and "Project Runway," John Veskosky will join Banca as executive V . p .. Mark Itkin and WME were instrumental in putting the sale together. Contact Andrew Wallenstein at andrew.wallenstein@variety.com

Ratings: Unforgettable Trends Downward Like Most Shows in Week 3

Unforgettable Unforgettable - the highest-rated new drama of the 2011-12 TV season's first week - apparently isn't memorable enough for some people to return to. The show's third episode attracted 11.35 million viewers and nabbed a 2.4 rating among industry-prized 18-to-49-year-olds, overnight Nielsen ratings showed. It drew 19 percent fewer viewers two weeks after its debut, and last week it fell behind Person of Interest as the most popular new network drama. It still emerged victorious in prime time's final hour Tuesday against Body of Proof, which went against the grain by improving (10.22 million/2.1 - up 11 percent and 17 percent, respectively), and Parenthood (5 million/2.0 - down 9 percent). Fall Preview: Get scoop on your favorite returning shows The first new show to earn the assurance of full season- New Girl - lured 8.62 million people and posted Tuesday night's high demo rating: 4.3. While sustaining Fox's faith, the show also trended downward for the third week (vs. 9.26 million/4.4 rating last week, and 10.98 million for the premiere). Glee grabbed 8.30 million viewers and 3.5 demo rating (vs. last week's 8.34 million/3.6 and 8.91 million/3.8 for the Season 3 premiere). And if it's Tuesday, it means CBS has won the first two hours of prime time with NCIS, which attracted 18.86 million (4.1) and NCIS: Los Angeles, which lured 14.65 million (3.6). At 9:30/8:30c, Fox's Raising Hope defied the downward trend by reaching 6.51 million people. Read our Dancing with the Stars recap Against NCIS and Glee at 8/7c, the first hour of Dancing with the Stars entertained 9.11 million viewers vs. The Biggest Loser on NBC (5.52 million) and The CW's 90210 (1.32 million - down 16 percent). At 9/8c, the DWTS results drew 14.83 million vs. Loser (5.69 million) and the fourth round of Ringer, which, after nabbing 2.01 million last week, got just 1.49 million - its lowest yet and far below the 2.7 million for its premiere. Numbers also may have been down because many eyes, particularly in the nation's largest TV market, were turned to the playoff game between the NY Yankees and Detroit Tigers. Some 7.01 million fans watched the prime-time game on TBS, making it the most watched division-series contest in four years.

Hunt, Paul, Grace join 'Decoding'

Helen Hunt, Aaron Paul (''Breaking Bad'') and Maggie Grace have joined the cast of indie drama-comedy ''Decoding Annie Parker'' opposite Samantha Morton in the title role and Christina Hendricks.Filming is set to begin later this month in Los Angeles''Decoding'' is directed by Steven Bernstein from a script he co-wrote with Adam Bernstein. The story centers on the irrepressible Parker, a breast-cancer patient who stops at nothing to solve the mystery behind her illness, despite the beliefs of the medical establishment.''Decoding'' is produced by Clark Peterson, Stuart Ross, Keith Kjarval, Mary Vernieu and Ron Senkowski. Jonathan Brownlee and Sahil Chanana are exec producing.Project originated with Steven Bernstein and Clark Peterson and is based on a true story. The production has received the state of California's tax credit incentive, one of 27 named in June for the third year of the program -- aimed at preventing production companies from moving their projects, jobs and spending out of the Golden State..''Decoding'' is the feature directing debut for Bernstein, who was the cinematographer on ''Monster'' and ''Like Water for Chocolate.'' Bernstein and Peterson collaborated on ''Monster'' and several other projects. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

X-Men: First Class Watch Online Free

Tokyo Disney parks see 17% visitor fall

TOKYO -- Oriental Land, which operates the Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea parks, has reported a 17% or 2.2 million drop year-on in park attendance for the first half of the fiscal year, April through September, to 10.73 million. This was the biggest drop for the period since Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983. The big reason for the plunge is the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, which forced closures of Disneyland until April 14 and DisneySea until April 27 while OL conducted inspections and made repairs. Both parks recovered strongly in the summer season, setting a new record for the July to September period. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

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VIDEO: Andy Rooney Signs Off an hour

Tonight 92-year-old Andy Rooney made his 1,097th and final regular appearance on an hour. If only I possibly could do that forever, he stated in the final essay entitled My Lucky Existence, by which he thanked his audiences and, in the trademark curmudgeonly style also become a huge hit for them, “If you find me inside a restaurant, please, just allow me to eat my dinner.” This is actually the video:

'Puss in Boots' Opening a Week Earlier on Oct. 28

DreamWorks Animation and Paramount have moved up the release of animated family film Puss in Boots by one week, from Nov. 4 to Oct. 28. The relocation to Halloween weekend gives Puss in Boots more breathing room before a crush of family pics debut around the Thanksgiving holiday. Directed by Chris Miller, the Shrek spin-off is an origins pic about the popular feline voiced by Antonio Banderas. In March, the movie was one of the biggest hits of theater owners trade show CinemaCon, where footage was shown for the first time. Puss in Boots doesn't have to worry about serious competition in its new date (just as it didn't in its old). The other films opening on Oct. 28 are Sony's Anonymous, Fox's In Time, FilmDistrict's The Rum Diaries and Universal's Johnny English Reborn. Puss in Boots' voice cast also includes Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Billy Bob Thornton and Amy Sedaris. Tom Wheeler penned the screenplay basd on a story by Brian Lynch, Will Davies and Tom Wheeler. Andrew Adamson and Guillermo del Toro executive produced, while Joe M. Aguilar and Latifa Ouaou produced. Related Topics

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A Look at the Trends at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival

A Look at the Trends at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival By Jenelle Riley September 29, 2011 Photo by Getty Images The 36th Toronto International Film Festival was held Sept. 8 to 18, bringing film titles from around the world in an effort to find distribution and audiences. While Hollywood provided star power with films that already have release dates, such as Brad Pitt's "Moneyball" and George Clooney's star-laden "The Ides of March," the festival also offered a chance for audiences to view more than 300 films from more than 60 countries. In the end, a bittersweet comedy from Lebanon, "Where Do We Go Now?" won the Cadillac People's Choice Award. Lebanese director Nadine Labaki, who also stars in the film, wasn't on hand to accept her award but was reached at the airport in Germany for comment. "I'm running around jumping up and down at the Frankfurt airport," she said in a statement read by festival programmer Rasha Salti. "Tomorrow we'll be screening 'Where Do We Go Now?' for the first time in Lebanon, and I will be proud and happy to announce the news in front of my crew, my family, and the Lebanese audience." Last year's winner, "The King's Speech," of course did very well at the Oscars, and "Where Do We Go Now?" has already been submitted as Lebanon's official entry in the foreign language film category. Read on for other trends and standouts at the 11-day festival.The Play's the Thing: Several films that began their lives as plays premiered at the festival to strong notices. Ralph Fiennes directs and stars in a modern version of Shakespeare's tale of a vain army general, "Coriolanus," which earned strong Oscar buzz for Vanessa Redgrave as the title character's scheming mother. Fiennes first played the role 10 years ago onstage but says it's timelier than ever. "The play has resonance with the times we're in, especially now with so much uncertainty in the world and the constant tension between leadership and the voice of the people," Fiennes said. "It's a continually resonant political thriller with a Greek tragedy at the center of it."Also finding its way from stage to screen was "The Ides of March," co-written by, directed by, and starring George Clooney as a presidential candidate, and based on Beau Willimon's play "Farragut North." Ryan Gosling, who stars as a campaign adviser who uncovers unsavory secrets about the candidate, admitted he hadn't seen the play but was won over by the film's script and director. "When George Clooney calls," he noted, "you say yes." Also intriguing audiences was Christopher Hampton adapting his play "The Talking Cure," now titled "A Dangerous Method" and starring Viggo Mortensen and Michael Fassbender as Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, respectively. And then there was "Killer Joe," Tracy Letts' adaptation of his dark comedy about a hit man (Matthew McConaughey) and the dysfunctional family that hires him. The film was directed by William Friedken, who previously brought Letts' play "Bug" to the big screen, and who earned raves for performances from McConaughey as the cold-blooded killer and Juno Temple as the object of his affection. "Coriolanus," "The Ides of March," and "A Dangerous Method" will be released before the end of the year, in time for Oscar consideration, and "Killer Joe" was acquired at the festival for U.S. distribution by Liddell Entertainment.Actors Pull Double Duty: Many actors were appearing in more than one film at the festival, including Phillip Seymour Hoffman ("Moneyball," "The Ides of March"), Clooney ("The Ides of March," "The Descendants"), Gerard Butler ("Coriolanus," "Machine Gun Preacher"), Redgrave ("Coriolanus," "Anonymous"), Seth Rogen ("50/50," "Take This Waltz"), and Elizabeth Olsen ("Martha Marcy May Marlene," "Peace, Love & Misunderstanding"). Perhaps no one was more visible, however, than Ontario's own Gosling, in town to promote "Drive" and "The Ides of March" and seeming to be on the cover of every magazine at the newsstand. "It's a very strange thing and a thing you can't control, having all this happen at once," noted Gosling, who also appeared in "Crazy, Stupid, Love" earlier this year. "Fortunately, I didn't just make three films this year, I made three films that I love and am very proud of."Michael Fassbender Has "Shame": Also headlining two films was Fassbender, starring in the aforementioned "A Dangerous Method" and earning Oscar buzz for his role as a sex addict in "Shame." The latter reteams him with director Steve McQueen, who gave Fassbender a breakout role as IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands in 2008's "Hunger." Fassbender said he was eager to work with McQueen again, noting, "The opportunity he gave me with 'Hunger' changed my life. And just the working relationship is a very honest and exciting and scary and rewarding one, so I jumped at the opportunity." Fox Searchlight acquired "Shame" and plans to release it before the end of the year to capitalize on the Oscar buzz surrounding Fassbender. "I don't think about it too much, to be honest," Fassbender said when asked about the hype. He then quoted "King Lear," quipping, "That way madness lies.""The Artist" Continues to Charm: After a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, where The Weinstein Company acquired it for a November release, "The Artist" wowed Toronto audiences. The movie tells the story of a silent film star (Jean Dujardin) who finds his career on the skids on the advent of talking pictures. "The Artist" is a silent film, shot in stunning black-and-white and done in the style of the era. It's a love letter from French director Michel Hazanavicius, making his first movie in America. His cast includes John Goodman and James Cromwell. Noted Hazanavicius, "It's funnywe don't use the same word in French for acting. We say 'play.' An actor plays. Here you say, 'An actor acts.' I think it's very different. In the term play, there's something about pretend. And in acting, you don't pretend, you do the thing. It's the difference I noticed between American and French actors." Dujardin was also on hand, but the film's leading lady, Brnice Bejo, was not, as she was due to give birth to her child with Hazanavicius. "The Artist" is the third film pairing Hazanavicius and Dujardin, who won the best actor prize at Cannes. Dujardin couldn't be more proud of his friend. "This movie came from a very deep artistic desire from Michel," he noted. "It's only his fourth movie, but he gained 10 years of experience on itnot just in terms of learning to make films but in terms of the exposure it will get for him."Gretchen Lodge Makes a Terrifying Debut: One of the popular titles in the Midnight Madness section of the festival was "Lovely Molly," written and directed by Eduardo Snchez, a co-director of horror phenom "The Blair Witch Project." Playing the lead role of a young bride who moves into her childhood home and finds herself questioning her sanity is Gretchen Lodge in her film debut. After moving to London as a teenager, Lodge appeared in shows such as "Chicago" and "A Chorus Line" in the West End. Shortly after moving to NY, she read a casting notice for the film (then called "The Possession") in Back Stage and went in for an audition. After an additional day of callbacks, she landed the role. She arrived in the Baltimore area two weeks before shooting, where she says she "stalked" locals. "I'd pick someone who reminded me of Molly and watch them for an afternoon." Lodge recently moved to Los Angeles, where she says she has no acting projects lined up and is seeking representation. But it's hard to imagine that not changing as the industry gets a look at her raw, emotional performance. "Lovely Molly" is seeking distribution.Bobcat's Blessed Duo: In recent years, Bobcat Goldthwait has made a name for himself as the writer-director of low-budget dark comedies that push the envelope. His fifth film, "God Bless America," is no exception, telling the story of an office drone named Frank who, infuriated with where he feels America is heading thanks to reality TV and a lack of manners, goes on a cross-country killing spree with 15-year-old Roxy in tow. For the role of Frank, Goldthwait cast his old friend Joel Murray, best known as drunkard Fred Rumsen on "Mad Men." Recalled Murray, "Bob sent me the script, and I loved it. I said, 'It's really good, Bob. Who do you want me to play, the guy in the office? The accountant?' He said, 'No. I want you for Frank.' I couldn't believe it. I don't get offered leads in movies very oftenI know it's hard to believe." For the role of Roxy, Goldthwait discovered 17-year-old Tara Lynne Barr, whose previous work on Nickelodeon series like "Zoey 101" couldn't have prepared her for the profane, raunchy lines she got to deliverincluding one particularly delicious rant against Diablo Cody. But the pair doesn't seem worried that the film, which was acquired by Magnet Releasing, pushes that envelope too far. "The people who are offended by it seem to be the people the movie is condemning," Barr pointed out. Echoed Murray, "You're either going to hate the movie or love it. And I think about 90 percent of people have been loving it." A Look at the Trends at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival By Jenelle Riley September 29, 2011 PHOTO CREDIT Getty Images The 36th Toronto International Film Festival was held Sept. 8 to 18, bringing film titles from around the world in an effort to find distribution and audiences. While Hollywood provided star power with films that already have release dates, such as Brad Pitt's "Moneyball" and George Clooney's star-laden "The Ides of March," the festival also offered a chance for audiences to view more than 300 films from more than 60 countries. In the end, a bittersweet comedy from Lebanon, "Where Do We Go Now?" won the Cadillac People's Choice Award. Lebanese director Nadine Labaki, who also stars in the film, wasn't on hand to accept her award but was reached at the airport in Germany for comment. "I'm running around jumping up and down at the Frankfurt airport," she said in a statement read by festival programmer Rasha Salti. "Tomorrow we'll be screening 'Where Do We Go Now?' for the first time in Lebanon, and I will be proud and happy to announce the news in front of my crew, my family, and the Lebanese audience." Last year's winner, "The King's Speech," of course did very well at the Oscars, and "Where Do We Go Now?" has already been submitted as Lebanon's official entry in the foreign language film category. Read on for other trends and standouts at the 11-day festival.The Play's the Thing: Several films that began their lives as plays premiered at the festival to strong notices. Ralph Fiennes directs and stars in a modern version of Shakespeare's tale of a vain army general, "Coriolanus," which earned strong Oscar buzz for Vanessa Redgrave as the title character's scheming mother. Fiennes first played the role 10 years ago onstage but says it's timelier than ever. "The play has resonance with the times we're in, especially now with so much uncertainty in the world and the constant tension between leadership and the voice of the people," Fiennes said. "It's a continually resonant political thriller with a Greek tragedy at the center of it."Also finding its way from stage to screen was "The Ides of March," co-written by, directed by, and starring George Clooney as a presidential candidate, and based on Beau Willimon's play "Farragut North." Ryan Gosling, who stars as a campaign adviser who uncovers unsavory secrets about the candidate, admitted he hadn't seen the play but was won over by the film's script and director. "When George Clooney calls," he noted, "you say yes." Also intriguing audiences was Christopher Hampton adapting his play "The Talking Cure," now titled "A Dangerous Method" and starring Viggo Mortensen and Michael Fassbender as Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, respectively. And then there was "Killer Joe," Tracy Letts' adaptation of his dark comedy about a hit man (Matthew McConaughey) and the dysfunctional family that hires him. The film was directed by William Friedken, who previously brought Letts' play "Bug" to the big screen, and who earned raves for performances from McConaughey as the cold-blooded killer and Juno Temple as the object of his affection. "Coriolanus," "The Ides of March," and "A Dangerous Method" will be released before the end of the year, in time for Oscar consideration, and "Killer Joe" was acquired at the festival for U.S. distribution by Liddell Entertainment.Actors Pull Double Duty: Many actors were appearing in more than one film at the festival, including Phillip Seymour Hoffman ("Moneyball," "The Ides of March"), Clooney ("The Ides of March," "The Descendants"), Gerard Butler ("Coriolanus," "Machine Gun Preacher"), Redgrave ("Coriolanus," "Anonymous"), Seth Rogen ("50/50," "Take This Waltz"), and Elizabeth Olsen ("Martha Marcy May Marlene," "Peace, Love & Misunderstanding"). Perhaps no one was more visible, however, than Ontario's own Gosling, in town to promote "Drive" and "The Ides of March" and seeming to be on the cover of every magazine at the newsstand. "It's a very strange thing and a thing you can't control, having all this happen at once," noted Gosling, who also appeared in "Crazy, Stupid, Love" earlier this year. "Fortunately, I didn't just make three films this year, I made three films that I love and am very proud of."Michael Fassbender Has "Shame": Also headlining two films was Fassbender, starring in the aforementioned "A Dangerous Method" and earning Oscar buzz for his role as a sex addict in "Shame." The latter reteams him with director Steve McQueen, who gave Fassbender a breakout role as IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands in 2008's "Hunger." Fassbender said he was eager to work with McQueen again, noting, "The opportunity he gave me with 'Hunger' changed my life. And just the working relationship is a very honest and exciting and scary and rewarding one, so I jumped at the opportunity." Fox Searchlight acquired "Shame" and plans to release it before the end of the year to capitalize on the Oscar buzz surrounding Fassbender. "I don't think about it too much, to be honest," Fassbender said when asked about the hype. He then quoted "King Lear," quipping, "That way madness lies.""The Artist" Continues to Charm: After a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, where The Weinstein Company acquired it for a November release, "The Artist" wowed Toronto audiences. The movie tells the story of a silent film star (Jean Dujardin) who finds his career on the skids on the advent of talking pictures. "The Artist" is a silent film, shot in stunning black-and-white and done in the style of the era. It's a love letter from French director Michel Hazanavicius, making his first movie in America. His cast includes John Goodman and James Cromwell. Noted Hazanavicius, "It's funnywe don't use the same word in French for acting. We say 'play.' An actor plays. Here you say, 'An actor acts.' I think it's very different. In the term play, there's something about pretend. And in acting, you don't pretend, you do the thing. It's the difference I noticed between American and French actors." Dujardin was also on hand, but the film's leading lady, Brnice Bejo, was not, as she was due to give birth to her child with Hazanavicius. "The Artist" is the third film pairing Hazanavicius and Dujardin, who won the best actor prize at Cannes. Dujardin couldn't be more proud of his friend. "This movie came from a very deep artistic desire from Michel," he noted. "It's only his fourth movie, but he gained 10 years of experience on itnot just in terms of learning to make films but in terms of the exposure it will get for him."Gretchen Lodge Makes a Terrifying Debut: One of the popular titles in the Midnight Madness section of the festival was "Lovely Molly," written and directed by Eduardo Snchez, a co-director of horror phenom "The Blair Witch Project." Playing the lead role of a young bride who moves into her childhood home and finds herself questioning her sanity is Gretchen Lodge in her film debut. After moving to London as a teenager, Lodge appeared in shows such as "Chicago" and "A Chorus Line" in the West End. Shortly after moving to NY, she read a casting notice for the film (then called "The Possession") in Back Stage and went in for an audition. After an additional day of callbacks, she landed the role. She arrived in the Baltimore area two weeks before shooting, where she says she "stalked" locals. "I'd pick someone who reminded me of Molly and watch them for an afternoon." Lodge recently moved to Los Angeles, where she says she has no acting projects lined up and is seeking representation. But it's hard to imagine that not changing as the industry gets a look at her raw, emotional performance. "Lovely Molly" is seeking distribution.Bobcat's Blessed Duo: In recent years, Bobcat Goldthwait has made a name for himself as the writer-director of low-budget dark comedies that push the envelope. His fifth film, "God Bless America," is no exception, telling the story of an office drone named Frank who, infuriated with where he feels America is heading thanks to reality TV and a lack of manners, goes on a cross-country killing spree with 15-year-old Roxy in tow. For the role of Frank, Goldthwait cast his old friend Joel Murray, best known as drunkard Fred Rumsen on "Mad Men." Recalled Murray, "Bob sent me the script, and I loved it. I said, 'It's really good, Bob. Who do you want me to play, the guy in the office? The accountant?' He said, 'No. I want you for Frank.' I couldn't believe it. I don't get offered leads in movies very oftenI know it's hard to believe." For the role of Roxy, Goldthwait discovered 17-year-old Tara Lynne Barr, whose previous work on Nickelodeon series like "Zoey 101" couldn't have prepared her for the profane, raunchy lines she got to deliverincluding one particularly delicious rant against Diablo Cody. But the pair doesn't seem worried that the film, which was acquired by Magnet Releasing, pushes that envelope too far. "The people who are offended by it seem to be the people the movie is condemning," Barr pointed out. Echoed Murray, "You're either going to hate the movie or love it. And I think about 90 percent of people have been loving it."