Ryan Reynolds Champions Nature’s Misfits in Hilarious New Docuseries Underdogs

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Move over, lions and penguins — it’s time for the oddballs to shine.

Ryan Reynolds is swapping Deadpool’s red suit for something a bit more khaki as he lends his voice to Underdogs, a new five-part docuseries celebrating the natural world’s unsung heroes. Premiering 16 June on Disney+, the series is a joint effort from Reynolds’ Emmy® Award-winning Maximum Effort and Wildstar Films, the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning team behind some of the world’s most stunning wildlife documentaries.

But don’t expect your usual slow-motion lion pounce or majestic whale breach. This time, the spotlight belongs to nature’s Z-listers — the awkward, underrated, and often overlooked creatures who prove that survival doesn’t require good looks or graceful moves, just pure ingenuity and a whole lot of hustle.

Narrated with Reynolds’ Signature Wit

Reynolds, known for his razor-sharp humour, is the perfect guide through this wild world of unlikely legends. Underdogs dives headfirst into the fascinating (and frequently gross) lives of animals that typically don’t get the red carpet treatment. Think glow-in-the-dark butt-grubs in a cave in New Zealand, bizarre mating rituals, and some of the most questionable parenting strategies ever caught on camera.

“Getting to work with National Geographic on Underdogs was a dream come true,” said Reynolds. “Mostly because I can finally watch a project of ours with my children. Technically, they saw Deadpool & Wolverine but I don’t think they absorbed much while covering their eyes and ears and screaming for two hours.”

Each episode of Underdogs focuses on a different wild skillset — from strange superpowers to deceptive trickery, all the way to survival techniques that would make Bear Grylls think twice.

A Feast for the Eyes (and Ears)

The show features mind-blowing footage from the world’s top wildlife cinematographers, including scenes that have never been filmed before. One highlight? A glowing cave full of mucus-covered larvae that light up like a dodgy nightclub under UV lights. It’s gross. It’s mesmerising. It’s everything a nature doc should be.

On top of the visuals, the soundtrack absolutely slaps. Award-winning composer Harry Gregson-Williams (you know, from Shrek and The Martian) scores the series, while Green Day delivers the official theme song — fittingly titled “Underdog”. The song debuts in the official trailer, roaring like a wild anthem for every creature who’s ever felt like they were picked last for team sports.

The soundtrack, Underdogs (Original Series Soundtrack), drops on 13 June via Hollywood Records. And if you’re a fan of Green Day, you’ll be glad to know the track is also featured on the deluxe edition of their latest album, Saviors.

More Than Laughs — It’s Clever Science Too

While Underdogs has plenty of cheeky moments, it’s not all for laughs. The series highlights the resilience, intelligence and mind-blowing adaptations of animals that keep the ecosystem ticking. Forget fame — these critters are the real MVPs of the natural world.

So, whether you’re a nature nerd, a Green Day fan, or just in it for Ryan Reynolds’ running commentary on butt-glow worms, Underdogs is set to be a wild ride.

📺 Underdogs premieres **16 June on Disney+_.

Bring your curiosity. Maybe not your lunch.

Heartfelt Film ‘My Eyes’ to Make Emotional Australian Debut on May 28, 2025

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FanForce Films proudly announces the theatrical release of MY EYES on May 28, 2025. Inspired by true events and led by actor/writer/producer Tsu Shan Chambers (SUKA, UNSOUND), this heartfelt Australian story spotlights the remarkable journey of a mother determined to save her daughter’s eyesight—and the broader social impact of living with vision impairment.

MY EYES follows Alana (Chambers), an Optometrist whose life is upended when her young daughter is diagnosed with a hereditary eye condition. Desperate for a stem cell donor, Alana must confront her past—and a life-changing connection to Nico (Eduardo Ávila Sánchez), setting in motion a story of family, cultural identity, and resilience. Adam Garcia (COYOTE UGLY, BOOTMEN) portrays Alana’s devoted husband Sam, and Kieu Chinh (THE JOY LUCK CLUB, THE SYMPATHIZER) appears as Alana’s protective mother.

Produced by Wise Goat Productions in collaboration with an international and diverse creative team, MY EYES highlights social change through its authentic depiction of the vision-impaired community and the power of inclusive storytelling. The film has attracted support from organisations including Vision Australia, the International Blind Sports Federation, Optometry Australia, and many other social impact partners. Premiere fundraisers across Australia—tied to the film’s opening week—will help generate awareness and funds for eye health advocacy and disability inclusion initiatives.

Quote from Tsu Shan Chambers (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Practicing Optometrist):

“MY EYES is deeply personal to me—growing up with multiple cultural influences, training as an Optometrist, and experiencing close connections with people aﬀected by vision loss. It’s a story I’ve wanted to share for years, and I’m overjoyed to finally bring it to audiences in a way that sparks empathy and positive change.

As an independent producer, it is important to me to be able to bring to the screen an authentic local story that will take Australian culture and values to a global audience. We have so many stories to share and need more opportunities like this to bring them to life”.

Quote from Adam Garcia (Actor):

“Even though I’m now based in the UK, there was never a doubt in my mind about joining MY EYES. The film’s heart and the team’s dedication to representing meaningful stories made it impossible to say no. I’m thrilled for audiences to see the beauty and realism we’ve created.”

Quote from Eduardo Ávila Sánchez (Actor):

“As someone who understands life with a disability, I hope MY EYES encourages everyone to look past labels and assumptions. This film is about celebrating our abilities, our families, and our determination to make every moment count.”

Vision Australia also voiced support, with a spokesperson adding:

“Stories like MY EYES are essential in showing the resilience and achievements of people living with blindness or low vision. We’re proud to see an authentic portrayal on screen and look forward to the impact it will have on raising awareness for eye health.”

MY EYES also features an original track by Australian sensation Dami Im. Known for her acclaimed run at Eurovision 2016—where she won Semi-Final 2, secured the top Jury Vote, and finished second overall—Dami Im (2013 winner of THE X FACTOR AUSTRALIA and Destiny Rescue Ambassador) lends a moving musical backdrop to Alana’s journey of self-discovery.

Early festival appearances, including at the Gold Coast Film Festival, are scheduled prior to the nationwide release on May 28, 2025. A unique rollout of screenings will follow across Australia and New Zealand, featuring special Q&A events as well as Fan screenings—empowering communities to bring MY EYES to their local cinema. Tickets and more details can be found at Fan-Force.com/ MyEyes.

Make a Splash with Leo the Sea Lion Pup in Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galápagos, Streaming April 22 on Disney+

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Dive in with handsome sea lion pup Leo in Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” streaming on Disney+ beginning April 22. Narrated by Brendan Fraser, the stunning feature film explores the fascinating world of the Galapagos alongside a host of creatures from land and sea. A trailer, key art and film stills are now available to download and share.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

In celebration of Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Disney Conservation Fund is supporting Conservation International, working alongside local organisations to connect more than 1,500 youth with the beauty of the Galápagos and inspire action to reduce ocean plastics for the benefit of marine life like sea lions.

SOUNDTRACK

The “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” Original Score Soundtrack composed by Raphaelle Thibaut will be available on streaming services April 22.

In “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Leo eventually leaves his mother’s colony to find his own home following swimming lessons, fishing expeditions and some growing up. Male sea lions must fight to earn the best spots, and only the strongest will become beachmasters. Leo’s lifelong quest is fraught with challenges and filled with new encounters with an array of creatures, from marine iguanas and racer snakes to yellow fin tuna and huge Galapagos sharks. The archipelago is Leo’s playground—overland and underwater—but he must stay vigilant to find his place in the world. Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” is directed by Wilson, co-directed by Keith Scholey, and produced by Wilson, Scholey and Roy Conli, the adventure features music by composer Raphaelle Thibaut.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney + (photo supplied)

Star-Studded Celebration: Carmen & Bolude Debuts at Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace

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FilmCentral Magazine had the honour of attending the Australian red carpet premiere of Carmen & Bolude at the prestigious Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on March 19th. Following its successful world premiere in Los Angeles, the Australian debut was a spectacular celebration of cinema, drawing an impressive lineup of celebrities, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts.

The event was a star-studded affair, with notable figures from the entertainment industry gracing the red carpet. Producer Yolandi Franken, along with the film’s creator-writers Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, took centre stage, expressing their excitement and gratitude for the film’s reception. Among the many esteemed guests were comedian David Collins of The Umbilical Brothers, actor Joey Vieira known for his role in Dora and the Lost City of Gold, and many more. Celebrated actress and influencer Suzan Mutesi added to the glamour of the night.

The film Carmen & Bolude has been generating significant buzz within the industry. Co-written by Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, the film is a testament to the power of storytelling and cultural exploration. With its successful Los Angeles premiere setting a high benchmark, anticipation for the Australian screening was immense. The film did not disappoint, taking audiences on a deeply engaging cinematic journey that was met with enthusiastic applause.

The Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, one of Sydney’s most iconic theatres, provided the perfect setting for the premiere. Known for its classic Art Deco architecture and rich history, the venue added an air of elegance and grandeur to the evening. The energy on the red carpet was palpable, with attendees posing for photos, conducting interviews, and sharing their excitement for the film. FilmCentral Magazine had the privilege of capturing the essence of the night, from the dazzling red carpet moments to the heartfelt conversations among guests.

Photographer Mohan Raj beautifully documented the night, taking stunning images of the event. These photographs reflect the excitement and grandeur of the evening, preserving the magic of the film’s Australian premiere.

As Carmen & Bolude continues its journey across international film festivals and theatrical releases, its Australian debut marks a significant milestone. The film’s success highlights the growing recognition of diverse storytelling and strengthens Australia’s presence in the global entertainment industry. FilmCentral Magazine is proud to have been part of this remarkable event and looks forward to following the film’s journey. Check out the photos below courtesy of Mohan Raj:

Introducing Kate Godfrey: From Nickelodeon to Hollywood – The Rise of a Multi-Talented Actress

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Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

Award-winning actress Kate Godfrey is solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s brightest rising stars. With her comedic beginnings on Nickelodeon and her recent foray into dramatic roles, Kate has proven her versatility and talent, captivating audiences and industry insiders alike.

Born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, Kate’s journey into the spotlight began at the age of nine. Performing in local productions and the Broadway community in New York City, she quickly showcased her natural flair for acting. Her big break came when she joined the revival of All That on Nickelodeon as a regular cast member, starring in 36 episodes. With sharp comedic timing and infectious energy, Kate received rave reviews for her performances and earned the admiration of none other than Saturday Night Live legend Kenan Thompson, who hailed her as a next-generation comedic talent.

Kate’s comedic prowess continued to shine when she took on the lead role of Ruby in Nickelodeon’s Warped!, a series that allowed her to delve deeper into the world of humour and wit. She also made her late-night debut in a sketch comedy segment on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, solidifying her presence as a force in the entertainment world.

But Kate’s career has not been limited to comedy. Her role in the short film Leading Man marked a significant turning point, earning her the prestigious 2024 Tribeca Most Moving Narrative Award. The film was also an official selection at the Out On Film Festival, qualifying for both the Oscars and BAFTA—an extraordinary feat for a young actress. Kate’s performance in Leading Man demonstrated her emotional depth and versatility, proving she is equally adept at dramatic roles.

Looking ahead, Kate’s trajectory continues to soar. In 2025, she will appear as a recurring guest star in Hulu’s highly anticipated series Paradise. She plays Hadley, the daughter of Julianne Nicholson, in a cast that includes James Marsden and Sterling K. Brown. The series is already generating buzz as one of Hulu’s most anticipated releases. Additionally, Kate has secured a role in the upcoming feature film Red Ants, further expanding her repertoire.

Beyond her acting career, Kate is also a dedicated student at UCLA, where she balances her education with her professional commitments. Her academic pursuits are driven by her desire to understand the entertainment industry from multiple perspectives, including the business and filmmaking aspects.

Kate’s philanthropic efforts are equally inspiring. She volunteers with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart. “A kid should never be sick; St. Jude’s makes those families feel a little safer,” she shares, reflecting her compassionate outlook on life.

FilmCentral Magazine recently had the privilege of interviewing Kate, delving deeper into her journey, influences, and aspirations.

On her most transformative experiences as an actress

Kate credits her short film Leading Man as a pivotal moment in her career. “Seeing our short at Tribeca inspired me not only as an actor but as a filmmaker,” she says. However, she acknowledges that her personal experiences outside the entertainment industry have also played a significant role in shaping her craft. “Being able to live life and go to both high school and college has taught me things about acting that I couldn’t learn on set.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

On Kenan Thompson’s mentorship

Kate speaks highly of Kenan Thompson’s influence, stating, “Kenan’s mentorship has helped me be confident and work hard. It is really challenging to be a working actor, so it is helpful to have words of encouragement from people whose work you admire. He works like crazy and is still a good influence. I hope to be that friendly and humble if I am ever as successful as him.”

Balancing comedy and drama

For Kate, transitioning between comedy and drama is like “playing sports.” She explains, “They can be completely different, but many of the same skills carry over. I will always have a special love for comedy because that is where I learned about the entertainment industry.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

On taking on mature roles

Kate is excited to tackle more layered and dimensional characters as she grows. “You are very limited when you are young as to what you can say or do, but as an adult, I find that my characters are much more dimensional. What excites me most is telling stories that resonate with more people.”

On her role in Hulu’s Paradise

Reflecting on her role in Paradise, Kate reveals, “I play Hadley. I have a small role, but I learned a lot while filming it. Julianne Nicholson showed me that acting is something you can master. She not only knew how to do her job perfectly but also made everyone else’s jobs easier.”

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

Balancing UCLA studies with acting

Kate’s commitment to education is unwavering. “It has always been one of my life goals to get a degree,” she shares. While juggling acting and academics is challenging, Kate finds value in understanding the business side of the industry. “Learning about the entertainment industry as a film student has made me an easier actor to work with because I know why productions make the business choices they do.”

Looking to the future

Kate’s aspirations include roles that challenge her and allow her to grow. “In the next few years, I would like to play roles that require me to learn new skills and tell unique stories,” she says.

With her undeniable talent, humility, and drive, Kate Godfrey is undoubtedly on the cusp of becoming one of Hollywood’s next big stars. Whether it’s her comedic charm or her dramatic prowess, one thing is clear—Kate’s star is only just beginning to rise.

Photo Credit: Jonny Marlow

Casting Guild of Australia Awards Set to Return to Sydney in November 2024

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The annual Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) Awards Ceremony is returning to Sydney this year. The prestigious invite-only event will be held at the Establishment Hotel on Friday, November 15, 2024. Nominees for the awards will be announced in late October.

Launched in 2015, the CGA Awards is the only casting awards ceremony in the southern hemisphere that celebrates and recognises casting across all mediums, including film, television, television commercials, theatre, new media, and reality. The annual Awards Ceremony seeks to acknowledge and support the critical role casting directors play in bringing together great casting opportunities on a national and international stage.

CGA President Thea McLeod said, “We are thrilled to announce the Casting Guild Award nominations for 2024! Our role is like piecing together a brilliant puzzle—understanding each character’s unique needs and finding the perfect actor to fit each piece. By working closely with directors and producers, we bring their vision to life and make the script truly shine. It’s where the magic happens.

This year has been nothing short of amazing, with a fantastic array of talent showcased in the awards submissions. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of casting directors, who are often the unsung heroes making those brilliant performances possible. We’re incredibly excited to come together at this year’s CGA Awards to celebrate the outstanding work of Australian casting directors and the fantastic contributions they’ve made over the past year.”

2024 CGA AWARD CATEGORIES:

Best Casting in a Feature Film
Best Casting in a Short Film
Best Casting in a TV Comedy
Best Casting in a TV Drama
Best Casting in a Telemovie & Miniseries
Achievement in Casting
Best Casting in a Theatre Production
Best Casting in a TVC – Community
Best Casting in a TVC

The CGA will also name ten extraordinary actors with the potential to break out on the world stage as the 2024 CGA Rising Stars. The Rising Stars will be announced in early November, and recipients will be interviewed by some of Australia’s top casting directors on CGA’s social pages before the official presentation on November 15.

For further information about CGA visit www.castingguild.com.au and be sure to follow their official socials channels for the latest news and updates.

Madman Entertainment Unveils Teaser Trailer for Adam Elliot’s “Memoir of a Snail”

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Madman Entertainment has officially launched the teaser trailer for “Memoir of a Snail,” the latest project from Academy Award®-winning animation writer and director Adam Elliot, renowned for his work on “Mary and Max” and “Harvie Krumpet.” This highly anticipated stop-motion feature boasts a stellar voice cast, including Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana, Magda Szubanski, Dominique Pinon, Tony Armstrong, and Jacki Weaver.

“Memoir of a Snail” tells the poignant and bittersweet story of Grace Pudel (voiced by Sarah Snook), a lonely woman who shares the narrative of her life with a humble garden snail named Sylvia. The film recently had its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and will serve as the opening night feature at the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 8.

Produced by Arenamedia, “Memoir of a Snail” received significant production investment from Screen Australia, in collaboration with Anton and Charades. The project was developed and produced in association with VicScreen, and financed with additional support from Soundfirm, Mind the Gap Finance, Jameker, Shadowlane, and the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund (MIFF).

Film Synopsis:

“Memoir of a Snail” follows the life of Grace Pudel, a solitary misfit with a passion for collecting ornamental snails and a deep love for books. After being separated from her fiery twin brother Gilbert at a young age, Grace experiences profound anxiety and distress. However, she finds solace and inspiration through an enduring friendship with an eccentric elderly woman named Pinky, whose zest for life brings hope and joy to Grace’s world. This heartfelt and humorous film from Adam Elliot chronicles Grace’s journey to find confidence and silver linings amidst life’s challenges.

“Memoir of a Snail” is slated for a cinematic release on October 17, 2024. Check out the trailer below: