Author: Mark D

Dan Ewing Cast as Aussie Lead in Exciting New US-Australia Film Collaboration

Posted on by Mark D

Dan Ewing, known for his roles in Home and Away, SAS Australia, and Love and Monsters, is set to take on the Australian lead role in the upcoming film Rembrandt Mansion. This thrilling project is a collaboration between Australian and American filmmakers, with US A-list stars to be announced later. Joining Dan Ewing in the cast are fellow Australian actors Daniel James and Brodie Henson. Daniel James will portray Mike, a shock jock radio announcer in the upcoming film Patched, directed by Steve Mann. Brodie Henson recently appeared as Tito in Deep Red Water, filmed on the Gold Coast and directed by Danial Donai.

With Hollywood increasingly turning to Australia as a prime filming location, and new studios popping up across the country, Rembrandt Mansion aims to strengthen film industry ties between Australia and the US. The film is a novel-to-screen adaptation spearheaded by American film producer and novelist Alexandria Altman. The project is a joint venture between Altman’s Rembrandt Mansion LLC and SWG Entertainment, based in Queensland’s Scenic Rim and Inverell in New South Wales.

Alexandria Altman, often likened to authors Stephanie Meyer and Anne Rice for her unique and captivating writing style, is leading the US production team. The team also includes legendary composer and music director Alan Howarth, known for his work on the Star Trek and Halloween franchises, as well as Escape From New York. With over 160 films to his name, Howarth’s involvement promises an epic score. Screenwriter Melody Rowland, whose credits include Hill Street Blues, Full House, and Growing Pains, has also joined the team, adding her expertise to what is expected to be a Hollywood blockbuster.

On the Australian side, the production team includes Mike Donnelly, Ross Wohlsen, and Pamela Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment. More announcements about the project and the Australian team are expected soon, with updates to be available on the SWG Entertainment website.

Dan Ewing’s casting in Rembrandt Mansion marks another significant milestone in his career, as well as an exciting step forward in the growing collaboration between the Australian and American film industries. Keep an eye out for more details on this highly anticipated film!

This article was sourced from a media release supplied by Pam Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment (image supplied)

Paramount Pictures Releases Thrilling New Trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Featuring Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog

Posted on by Mark D

Paramount Pictures has just released the highly anticipated trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” offering fans a first look at the epic showdown between Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz) and his formidable new enemy, Shadow the Hedgehog, voiced by none other than Keanu Reeves. The trailer teases a high-stakes battle that will take the franchise to new heights, promising an action-packed adventure full of surprises.

Synopsis

This holiday season, Sonic returns to the big screen for his most thrilling adventure yet. The beloved blue hedgehog, along with his friends Knuckles and Tails, faces an unprecedented challenge as they confront Shadow, a mysterious new villain with powers that far exceed anything they have encountered before. With their skills and abilities pushed to their limits, Team Sonic is forced to seek an unlikely alliance in order to stop Shadow and protect the planet from impending danger.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Director Jeff Fowler returns to helm the third instalment of the Sonic franchise, alongside a star-studded cast featuring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, and newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter. The film introduces Keanu Reeves to the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog, bringing his iconic voice and gravitas to the role of Sonic’s new arch-nemesis.

Production Details

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and Hitoshi Okuno, with Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, Yukio Sugino, Jeff Fowler, Tommy Gormley, and Tim Miller serving as executive producers. The screenplay, crafted by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, is based on the popular SEGA video game series that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

This new chapter in the Sonic saga is brought to life by a collaboration between Original Film, Marza Animation Planet, and Blur Studio, in association with Sega Sammy Group. The story, penned by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, promises to blend humour, heart, and high-octane action, staying true to the spirit of the beloved video game franchise.

Anticipation Builds for a Holiday Release

As the release date approaches, anticipation for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is reaching fever pitch. The film is expected to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience, with stunning animation, compelling characters, and a storyline that will captivate audiences of all ages. With Keanu Reeves joining the cast as Shadow, the stakes have never been higher for Sonic and his friends.

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” races into theatres this holiday season. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable adventure that promises to be the franchise’s most exciting instalment yet. Don’t miss this epic showdown between Sonic and Shadow—mark your calendars now!

Exclusive First Look at “Disney’s Snow White” Unveiled at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

Posted on by Mark D

Excitement reached new heights at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event as fans were treated to an exclusive preview of the upcoming live-action musical, Disney’s Snow White. The highly anticipated film, which is set to open exclusively in Australian cinemas in March 2025, was showcased with a captivating teaser trailer and a stunning new poster.

Stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, who bring to life the beloved characters of Snow White and the Evil Queen respectively, were on hand to share exclusive details about the production. Fans were also given a sneak peek at the enchanting “Whistle While You Work” scene, showcasing the film’s vibrant and magical reimagining of the classic 1937 animated feature.

Disney’s Snow White is a fresh, live-action take on the timeless story, directed by Marc Webb and produced by Marc Platt and Jared LeBoff. The film features all-new original songs composed by the acclaimed duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Callum McDougall serves as executive producer, ensuring that this musical adventure remains true to the heart of the original while introducing new elements to captivate a new generation of audiences.

The film will feature all the cherished characters from the beloved story, including Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy, bringing them to life with a blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Australian fans can look forward to a magical experience when Disney’s Snow White graces the big screen in March 2025. Check out the trailer below:

 

Oscar Winner Kate Winslet to Tour Australia to Promote New Film “LEE”

Posted on by Mark D

STUDIOCANAL Australia is thrilled to announce that Academy Award® Winner Kate Winslet will embark on an Australian publicity tour later this year to promote her highly anticipated new film, “LEE.” The tour will take place in October 2024 and will include appearances by Winslet’s producing partner, Kate Solomon, and Lee Miller’s son, Antony Penrose.

About the Film

“LEE” is a captivating portrait of the renowned American war correspondent and photographer Lee Miller. The film stars Kate Winslet in the titular role, showcasing Miller’s extraordinary talent and unyielding tenacity, which brought some of the most unforgettable images of the 20th century to the world.

Synopsis:

Oscar-winner Kate Winslet stars in this fascinating portrait of the great American war correspondent Lee Miller, whose singular talent and ferocious tenacity gave us some of the 20th century’s most indelible images. “LEE” also features an impressive ensemble cast including Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgård, Marion Cotillard, Josh O’Connor, Andrea Riseborough, and Noémie Merlant.

Release Date: October 24, 2024

Cast:

  • Kate Winslet
  • Andy Samberg
  • Alexander Skarsgård
  • Marion Cotillard
  • Josh O’Connor
  • Andrea Riseborough
  • Noémie Merlant

Directed By: Ellen Kuras

Written By: Liz Hannah, Marion Hume, John Collee

Produced By: Kate Winslet, Kate Solomon, Troy Lum, Andrew Mason, Marie Savare, Lauren Hantz

Kate Winslet, Kate Solomon, and Antony Penrose will visit several major Australian cities to participate in various promotional events, including media interviews, fan meet-and-greets, and special screenings of “LEE.”

This tour presents a unique opportunity for Australian fans and media to engage with Winslet and learn more about the making of this remarkable film that brings to life the story of one of the 20th century’s most influential photographers.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Studio Canal

Bill Bennett’s “The Way, My Way” Reaches $1 Million Box Office Milestone in Australia and New Zealand Within First 2 Weeks

Posted on by Mark D

Photo supplied by NIXCO

Since its debut on May 16, 2024, in Australia and New Zealand, “The Way, My Way” has reached the notable milestone of AU$1 million in just two weeks.

In 2023, only three Australian films surpassed the AU$1 million mark at the local box office (“Talk to Me,” “Blueback,” and “John Farnham: Finding The Voice”). “The Way, My Way” has achieved this feat in mere days and is now the third highest-grossing Australian film of 2024, following “Furiosa” and “Force of Nature: The Dry 2.”

Moreover, the film is set to become the second biggest Australian film of the year at the New Zealand box office, soon overtaking “Force of Nature: The Dry 2.”

The release expanded to 177 screens in Australia in its third weekend and enjoyed an unprecedented 19% increase in box office revenue, showcasing growing interest and positive word-of-mouth about the Camino, helping this independent film connect with audiences nationwide.

Marc Wooldridge, Managing Director for Maslow Entertainment, stated: “This is the sort of film that people are craving right now. It’s feel-good, funny, inspiring and transportive. People are also finding it deeply emotional and effecting too. We are so grateful for all the support the film has received from cinemas in both Australia and New Zealand, and the results over the past weekend suggest that there is still a very long road ahead for this beautiful and life-affirming movie.”

“The Way, My Way,” based on Bill Bennett’s best-selling book, stars Chris Haywood (“Muriel’s Wedding,” “Kiss or Kill”), Jennifer Cluff (“Kiss or Kill,” “In a Savage Land”), Pia Thunderbolt (“Three Thousand Years of Longing,” “Here Out West”), and Laura Lakshmi (TV’s “Colin from Accounts,” “Home and Away”). It tells the true story of a stubborn, self-centered Australian man who decides to walk the famed 800-kilometer Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route through Spain and the people he meets along the way that change his life forever, one step at a time.

The Camino de Santiago is renowned worldwide, with paths leading to the tomb of St. James in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. It has become a spiritual experience for many, with around six million people walking at least some of the Camino annually, a number expected to grow in the coming years.

To celebrate the film’s continuing success, Bill Bennett and Jennifer Cluff will participate in additional Q&A screening events in the coming weeks, following a highly successful national Q&A tour where the film played to full theatres across the country.

This press release has been sourced from an article provided by NIXCO

Discover the Next Chapter: ‘Moana 2’ Teaser Trailer Promises Thrilling Oceanic Voyage

Posted on by Mark D

Walt Disney Animation Studios is poised to make waves once again with the highly anticipated release of “Moana 2.” This November, audiences will be treated to the return of the beloved heroine Moana in a brand-new feature film. Auli‘i Cravalho reprises her role as the spirited protagonist, while Dwayne Johnson is back as the charismatic demigod Maui. The recent unveiling of the teaser trailer, along with an eye-catching poster and exclusive images, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the adventure that awaits.

Set to premiere exclusively in cinemas on November 28, 2024, “Moana 2” continues the narrative three years after the original film. The sequel reunites Moana and Maui for another epic journey, this time accompanied by a diverse crew of seafarers. The story kicks off when Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, prompting her to embark on a daring expedition into the uncharted and treacherous waters of Oceania. This new adventure promises to exceed the scope of her previous exploits, highlighting her growth as a navigator and leader.

The film is helmed by the talented directorial trio of David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, with Christina Chen and Yvett Merino serving as producers. The musical score is crafted by an impressive lineup of artists, including Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foaʻi, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina. This ensemble of musical talent is set to deliver a soundtrack that will leave a lasting impression on audiences.

As “Moana 2” sails towards its release date, the anticipation continues to build. The teaser trailer, poster, and images provide just a taste of the thrilling journey that lies ahead. Make sure to experience Moana’s latest adventure on the big screen this November, as she and Maui navigate new challenges and forge unforgettable memories.

Yorgos Lanthimos Returns to Cannes Film Festival with World Premiere of “Kinds of Kindness”

Posted on by Mark D

Photo supplied by Brooke Birch of Disney

The 77th Edition of the Cannes Film Festival just witnessed the unveiling of a cinematic masterpiece as Searchlight Pictures proudly presents the world premiere of “Kinds of Kindness,” the latest offering from acclaimed director Yorgos Lanthimos. Set to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and stellar ensemble cast, the film is slated to open exclusively in Australian cinemas on July 11, 2024.

Synopsis:

“Kinds of Kindness” weaves a triptych fable, exploring the lives of three individuals caught in the throes of fate. From a man grappling with the illusion of choice to a perplexed policeman confronting the enigma of his wife’s return, and a determined woman on a quest for a destined spiritual leader, the film delves into the complexities of human existence with Lanthimos’ signature blend of wit and profundity.

Director’s Legacy at Cannes:

For Yorgos Lanthimos and screenwriter Efthimis Filippou, “Kinds of Kindness” marks their fourth in-competition film at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival. From the groundbreaking “Dogtooth,” which earned Lanthimos the Un Certain Regard Prize in 2009, to the award-winning “The Lobster” in 2015 and the riveting “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” in 2017, the director’s Cannes journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

All-Star Cast:

Joining Lanthimos at Cannes will be an illustrious ensemble cast, including Academy Award winners and nominees such as Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer. Their collective talent promises to bring the multifaceted characters of “Kinds of Kindness” to life in spellbinding fashion.

Production Details:

“Kinds of Kindness” is a testament to the creative collaboration between Lanthimos and Efthimis Filippou, marking their fifth joint venture following acclaimed works such as “The Lobster” and “The Killing of a Sacred Deer.” Produced by Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Kasia Malipan, the film represents the pinnacle of cinematic excellence.

Don’t Miss the Premiere:

Prepare to be transported into a world of intrigue and introspection when “Kinds of Kindness” graces the screens of Australian cinemas on July 11, 2024. Experience the magic of Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest cinematic triumph and witness the brilliance of an all-star cast in action.