TV, Film & Media Industry International News Roundup, Weekend 17-18 August 2024
Deadpool & Wolverine breaks R-rated records; Taiwan selects Oscar entry; Bronfman eyes Paramount; Warner Bros. struggles; Wildflame closes; C4 explores joint ventures; Ben Burtt honoured.
Today’s Highlights:
'Deadpool & Wolverine' Overtakes 'Joker' as the Highest-Grossing R-Rated Film in History—Disney's film became the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever, earning $1.086 billion globally.
International Oscar Race: Taiwan Selects 'Old Fox'—Taiwan chose "Old Fox" for the best international feature category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Edgar Bronfman Jr. Prepares Bid for Paramount - Bronfman's potential bid for Paramount could disrupt Skydance's $8 billion deal.
Warner Bros. Discovery Faces Strategic Challenges - Warner Bros. Discovery is exploring asset sales after significant financial losses.
Wildflame Productions to Close - The prominent Welsh indie company announces its closure, impacting the local freelance community.
Alex Mahon: C4 Exploring Joint Ventures—Channel 4's CEO is exploring joint ventures to secure the broadcaster's intellectual property future.
Peter Bart: Hollywood's Cutbacks and Comebacks - A critical analysis of whether Hollywood's recent cutbacks will hinder future comebacks.
The Crown Casting Director Reflects on Meghan Markle Requests—Robert Sterne discusses ongoing requests to portray Meghan Markle, even after "The Crown" has concluded.
Ben Burtt Honored for Revolutionising Sci-Fi Sound with 'Star Wars' - Ben Burtt receives the Vision Award for his influential work in sound design at the Locarno Film Festival.
Chiwetel Ejiofor's Upcoming Directorial and Acting Projects - Ejiofor is involved in several upcoming films and returns to directing with "Rob Peace."
Plus: News, Festivals, Insights, In Development, Deals, Renewals, Cancellations and Jobs with Warners, ITV, Sky, Paramount, BBC, Channel 4, National Geographic, Prime, Disney & Netflix.
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NEWS
‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Overtakes ‘Joker’ as Highest-Grossing R-Rated Film in History With $1.08 Billion Globally
Disney’s "Deadpool & Wolverine" has become the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever, earning $1.086 billion globally in just 23 days, surpassing 2019's "Joker." The film debuted on July 26 with $211 million domestically and has since grossed $516 million in North America and $568 million internationally. It's the second 2024 blockbuster to reach the billion-dollar mark, following Disney’s "Inside Out 2."
From: Variety
International Oscar Race: Taiwan Selects ‘Old Fox,’ Moral Conflict Drama With Stellar Performances
Taiwan has chosen the acclaimed drama "Old Fox" to enter the best international feature category at the 97th Academy Awards. Directed by Hsiao Ya-chuan, the film explores the struggles of an 11-year-old boy torn between his frugal father and a wealthy landlord. Starring Bai Run-jin and Akio Chen, "Old Fox" premiered at the Tokyo International Film Festival and won four awards, including best director, at Taiwan’s Golden Horse Film Awards.
From: Variety
Former Bruce Lee Studio Orange Sky Golden Harvest Is Worth Less Than $20 Million as Group Issues Fourth Profit Warning in Two Years
Orange Sky Golden Harvest, which evolved from the legendary Golden Harvest studio known for establishing Bruce Lee, has issued its fourth profit warning in two years, signalling deepening losses. For the year's first half, the company expects losses to increase from HK$25 million ($3.2 million) to HK$100 million, citing impairment losses and reduced operating profits. This reflects ongoing challenges in the recovery of cinema box office revenues in East Asia's mature markets, where the company is focused.
From: Variety
Edgar Bronfman Jr. Prepares Bid for Paramount That Could Scupper $8bn Skydance Deal
Edgar Bronfman Jr. is reportedly preparing a bid to acquire Paramount, potentially disrupting Skydance's $8 billion deal with the company. Bronfman's offer could pose significant competition, raising questions about the future of Paramount's ownership and business strategy. Skydance, known for producing major franchises, may face challenges if Bronfman's bid gains traction, impacting the media landscape and Paramount's future direction.
From: C21Media
Wildflame Productions to Close
Wildflame Productions, a prominent Welsh indie company, will shut down after eight years, dealing a significant blow to the local freelance community. The closure follows the company's struggle to secure new commissions despite producing successful programs like "Wonderful Wales with Michael Ball." The decision reflects broader challenges in the independent production sector, particularly for companies relying heavily on commissions from major broadcasters.
From: Broadcast
FESTIVALS
Sarajevo’s Jovan Marjanovic Talks Physical Expansion, Hometown Heroes, and Tackling Tricky Issues
For its 30th edition, the Sarajevo Film Festival is expanding with new venues and environmentally-friendly initiatives. Jovan Marjanovic, festival director, emphasizes the festival's commitment to tradition and innovation, highlighting local talent and addressing global issues like migration. The festival continues as a cultural hub, with notable guests and premieres reflecting the city’s evolving identity.
From: Screen Daily
“It’s a Step Up,” Say Sarajevo Industry Heads of Boosted 2024 Programme
The Sarajevo Film Festival's 2024 edition is expanding significantly, moving industry activities to the business district and adding more meeting spaces at Swissotel Sarajevo. Head of industry Masa Markovic and CineLink leader Ishak Jalimam emphasize this as a major upgrade. With increased project submissions, notable international guests, and a focus on ethical AI discussions, this marks a pivotal year for the festival.
From: Screen Daily
Busan’s Asian Project Market 2024 Selects New Films from Kirsten Tan, Woo Ming Jin, Daishi Matsunaga
Busan International Film Festival's Asian Project Market 2024 has selected 30 new films from various filmmakers, including Kirsten Tan, Woo Ming Jin, and Daishi Matsunaga. The lineup showcases diverse genres, from crime thrillers to LGBTQ+ dramas, highlighting the market's commitment to creative freedom across Asia. Notable selections include "Crocodile Rock" by Kirsten Tan and "The Camford Experiment" by Woo Ming Jin.
From: Screen Daily
Why Sarajevo Remains ‘Place to Be’ for Industry Tastemakers Looking for Fresh Voices From Balkans and Beyond
Over two decades, CineLink Industry Days, the Sarajevo Film Festival's industry arm, has become the leading film and TV industry event in the Balkan region, fostering talent from Southeast Europe and beyond. Held from Aug. 17-22, the event strategically follows the Locarno Film Festival and precedes Venice and Toronto. Maša Marković, in her third year as head of industry, highlights CineLink’s “curatorial approach,” which ensures valuable connections for filmmakers, distributors, and industry tastemakers in Sarajevo’s dynamic environment.
From: Variety
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INSIGHTS
Pushing the Boat Out
The three-part miniseries La Ley del Mar (The Law of the Sea) dramatizes the true story of a Spanish fishing crew that rescued 51 stranded migrants in 2006, sparking a diplomatic crisis. When the crew, led by Captain José 'Pepe' Durá, attempted to bring the migrants to Malta, they were blocked from landing, leading to a nine-day standoff. The series, created by Enrique Domingo Pérez Vergara, highlights the humanitarian struggle and the subsequent changes in EU immigration laws. Filming at sea presented significant challenges, capturing the tension and urgency of the real events.
From: Drama Quarterly
Alex Mahon: C4 Exploring Joint Ventures Among IP Options
Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon is exploring various options, including joint ventures, to secure the future of the broadcaster's intellectual property (IP). While Mahon confirms that no significant changes are expected before 2026, the focus is on maximising value and ensuring sustainability. The broadcaster is carefully considering strategic partnerships to enhance its IP portfolio.
From: Broadcast
What’s the Path for Warner Bros. Discovery After Dismal Earnings, Sunk Stock Price, and Shrinking Options?
Warner Bros. Discovery is facing a critical period following a 70% drop in stock value since its April 2022 merger and a poor Q2 earnings report, which included a $9 billion write-down. CEO David Zaslav is pressured to explore strategic alternatives, such as asset sales, to revive the company's fortunes, particularly as it risks losing a lucrative NBA deal to competitors.
From: The Wrap
Holding on in Hollywood: A Hairdresser’s Journey from ‘Star Wars’ to Survival Mode
Sallie Ciganovich, a Hollywood hairdresser with credits on The Mandalorian and Ahsoka, has been forced to adapt to a lack of steady work by opening a small salon in her backyard. Despite her Emmy nominations, the industry's challenges, worsened by recent strikes, have left her contemplating a move or even a career shift to ensure her family's survival.
From: The Wrap
Aussie Commercial Channels Keeping Up with Local Content Obligations, Watchdog Finds
According to a new Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) report, Australia's commercial TV channels reportedly meet their local content obligations. The report highlights that these channels successfully deliver the required amount of local drama, documentaries, and children's programming, which is crucial for promoting Australian culture and supporting the local production industry.
From: C21Media
Kevin Bacon Details His Journey to Reality TV for 'Lucky 13'
Kevin Bacon has ventured into reality TV as an executive producer for ABC's new game show, Lucky 13, which he describes as an "outside-the-box" idea. Co-hosted by Gina Rodriguez and Shaquille O'Neal, the show challenges contestants with true-or-false trivia questions. Bacon also makes a special appearance on the show, which he believes will resonate with viewers due to its unique concept and engaging hosts.
From: The Wrap
'Runt' Director John Sheedy on the Film's Charm and Cheekiness
John Sheedy's film Runt captures a heartfelt bond between a young girl and her rescue dog. The director credits the film’s charm to the natural chemistry between lead actress Lily LaTorre and the dog, Squid, achieved through their time spent on and off set. Sheedy believes the film's blend of humour and emotion is what audiences need right now.
From: IF
Influencers Imbue Travel with a New Spirit of Adventure
Travel influencers are transforming the travel industry by promoting unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, emphasising adventure and cultural immersion. Their influence drives tourism trends, encouraging travellers to seek authentic, meaningful experiences rather than just popular destinations. This shift reshapes how the travel industry approaches marketing and content creation, focusing more on storytelling and genuine engagement.
From: C21Media
Peter Bart: Will Hollywood’s Cutbacks Inhibit The Comebacks? We’re Nearing The Moment Of Truth
The pressing question in Hollywood is whether recent cutbacks will hinder future comebacks. Paramount is slimming down and facing a year of federal and banking constraints before pursuing its ambitious plans. At Amazon MGM, Stuber navigates a complex corporate landscape to launch new projects. A hit film is the key to a renaissance, but the genre remains uncertain. Like Paramount’s in the ‘60s and ‘70s, historical studio comebacks were often driven by modestly budgeted, unique films. Despite risks, these successes shared a common trait: a singular creative voice.
From: Deadline
‘The Crown’ Casting Director Robert Sterne on the Requests He Still Gets: ‘Please, Can I Be Meghan Markle?’
Casting director Robert Sterne, who has worked on all six seasons of Netflix's "The Crown," still receives requests from actors wanting to portray Meghan Markle, even though the show has concluded. Sterne reflects on the nine-year journey that began with discussions about recasting every two years, a decision he believes was more effective than using makeup to age actors. The approach paid off, as "The Crown" won 21 Emmys and was nominated for 19 more this year. Sterne is known for discovering new talent and emphasises creating a supportive environment for actors during auditions.
From: Variety
‘Alien: Romulus’ Filmmaker Fede Alvarez Teases His Vision For ‘Alien Vs. Predator’
Alien: Romulus filmmaker Fede Alvarez is open to directing a new Alien vs. Predator movie, potentially co-directing with Dan Trachtenberg, who helmed the popular Prey prequel. Alvarez suggests a collaborative approach similar to Tarantino and Rodriguez's From Dusk Till Dawn, with each directing half. While 20th Century Fox's previous Alien vs. Predator films were profitable, Alvarez indicated that a new project would depend on the success of Romulus, which opened with a strong $40 million, making it the second-biggest opening in the franchise.
From: Deadline
Peter Morgan Isn’t Done With the Royal Family After Ending ‘The Crown’
Netflix’s historical drama The Crown, created by Peter Morgan, has garnered both criticism and praise, including 18 Emmy nominations for its sixth and final season. However, the show's subjects, the royal family have not publicly shared their opinions. “I’ve heard they love it, I’ve heard they hate it, I’ve heard everything,” Morgan says. “But until a royal family member tells me directly, I won’t believe anything I hear.”
From: The Hollywood Reporter
Ben Burtt on Revolutionising Sci-Fi Sound With ‘Star Wars’ and Creating Darth Vader’s Breathing
Ben Burtt, the legendary sound designer behind iconic sounds like the lightsaber and Darth Vader's breathing, is honoured with the Vision Award Ticinomoda at the 2024 Locarno Film Festival. Known for shaping the soundscape of films like Star Wars, E.T., and Indiana Jones, Burtt has earned four Oscars and 12 nominations throughout his career. Locarno’s artistic director, Giona A. Nazzaro, acknowledges that awarding a sound designer might seem unusual but emphasises Burtt’s profound influence on cinema.
From: The Hollywood Reporter
Chiwetel Ejiofor on Directing Biopic ‘Rob Peace,’ How Mary J. Blige Helped ‘Galvanize’ the Film Post-Pandemic and Joining the ‘Venom’ and ‘Bridget Jones’ Families
Chiwetel Ejiofor’s upcoming film lineup is packed with diverse projects, including Venom: The Last Dance, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, a Stephen King adaptation (The Life of Chuck), and Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut (Eleanor the Great). Despite his busy acting schedule, Ejiofor has also returned to directing with his sophomore feature, Rob Peace, released by Paramount’s Republic Pictures. Adapted from Jeff Hobbs’ book, the film tells the tragic true story of Robert Peace, a Yale biochemistry major from Orange, N.J., who faced insurmountable challenges and was tragically murdered at 30.
From: Variety
Crispin Glover Is in Search of an Exit in the Kafkaesque ‘Mr. K’
Crispin Glover stars in Mr. K., a surreal film bound for the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival’s Platform section. Directed by Tallulah H. Schwab, the movie follows Glover’s character, a traveling magician, who becomes trapped in a once-stately hotel and struggles to find the exit. Along the way, he encounters an eccentric cast of characters, including musicians, kitchen workers, and an elderly guest played by Fionnula Flanagan. The film, reminiscent of Franz Kafka's The Trial and Barton Fink, promises one of Glover’s most intriguing performances yet.
From: IndieWire
Producing Short Films with Hollie Bryan | BFI Film Academy Labs August 2024
Here, award-winning BFI NETWORK and BFI Filmmaking Fund-supported producer Hollie Bryan (The Ceremony, The Old Oak) leads a conversation about her filmmaking journey. Hollie discusses the daily responsibilities of a producer and the essential skills and experience required for the role and explores various entry points into the industry for aspiring film producers.
Sky Peals director Moin Hussain and producer Michelle Stein | BFI Q&A
Director Moin Hussain and producer Michelle Stein visit BFI Southbank to discuss Hussain's feature debut, a coming-of-age tale exploring a father-son relationship with a potential otherworldly twist. The film blends realist drama with subtle science-fiction elements, following Adam, a nightshift worker at a motorway service station who feels isolated and out of place. After learning of his estranged father Hassan's death, Adam embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about a man he never knew, leading him to believe he may be descended from an alien race. Hussain's debut, which premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, is unsettling and laced with deadpan humour.
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