Jacob Elordi to Star Opposite Margot Robbie in Emerald Fennell’s Film Adaptation of the Classic Novel “Wuthering Heights”

Posted on September 23, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Jacob Elordi’s career is reaching new heights…

The 27-year-old half-Spanish Australian actor and Saltburn star will star opposite Margot Robbie in Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights film.

LuckyChap will produce Fennell’s upcoming feature film adaptation based on the iconic romance novel by Emily Brontë. Besides being the studio on the project, MRC also will finance the film.

This marks LuckyChap and Fennell’s third collaboration together, having also produced her most recent pic Saltburn and Promising Young Woman, which won Fennell an Oscar for original screenplay.

Robbie is set to star as Catherine Earnshaw, and Elordi will play Heathcliff.

Fennell is set to write, direct and produce.

The film is in pre-production gearing up for a UK shoot in 2025.

The original novel by Brontë is considered by many to be one of the great pieces of literature when it was published in 1850. The original story follows two families, the Earnshaws and the Lintons and the turbulent relationship they have with the Earnshaws’ foster son, Heathcliff.

Plot details on Fennell’s adaptation are unknown at this time.

Wuthering Heights reunites Elordi and Fennell, with the actor starring in her most recent film Saltburn.

The Swift Horses and Euphoria is set to star in The Narrow Road to the Deep North, directed by Justin Kurzell. He also will star in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.

He played the iconic Elvis Presley in last year’s Priscilla, directed by Sofia Coppola.

Colman Domingo Appointed to The Gotham Film & Media Institute Board of Directors

Posted on January 29, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Colman Domingo is Gotham bound…

The 54-year-old Belizean-Guatemalan American actor, who recently earned his first-ever Oscar nod, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of The Gotham Film & Media Institute.

As the newest member, he’ll work with The Gotham on their mission to celebrate and nurture independent film and media creators by providing career-building resources, access to industry influencers, and pathways to wider recognition.

Domingo joins a board that includes Focus Features Vice Chairman Jason Cassidy and multi-hyphenate Riley Keough, whose additions were announced in November.

Other members include Nancy Abraham, Anthony Bregman, Jeb Brody, Gerry Byrne, Alina Cho, Dan Crown, Mark D’Arcy (Director Emeritus), Amy Emmerich, Philipp Engelhorn, Kai Falkenberg, James Janowitz, Franklin Leonard, Stephanie March, Soledad O’Brien, Dee Poku, Hanna Rodriguez-Farrar, John Schmidt, Lisa Taback, Teddy Schwarzman, Drew Wilson, and Celia Winchester.

“As long-time admirers of Colman’s brilliant acting and dedication to giving back to our community through mentorship and education, we are thrilled to welcome him to The Gotham’s extraordinary Board of Directors,” said Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director of The Gotham. “We know that his experience, vision, and undeniable dedication to the craft of filmmaking will help us nurture independent creators and propel the industry to new heights.”

Stated Domingo: “With its rich history of elevating original voices and supporting independent film, I couldn’t be more excited to dive into my work with The Gotham. I look forward to working alongside some of the most influential and passionate people in film as we champion independent creatives and the stories they strive to share with the world.”

In George C. Wolfe’s Rustin, from Netflix and the Obamas’ Higher Ground, Domingo portrays Bayard Rustin, the activist who helped change the course of Civil Rights history by orchestrating the 1963 March on Washington, confronting racism and homophobia all along the way. This awards season, he also can be seen portraying the menacing Mister in Blitz Bazawule’s new take on The Color Purple for Warner Bros & Amblin.

One of the most celebrated actors of his generation, Domingo is best known for his Emmy-winning performance as recovering drug addict Ali on HBO’s Euphoria, as well as for starring on AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead. In addition to Ethan Coen’s comedic caper Drive-Away Dolls, out February 23 via Focus Features, he’ll next be seen in A24’s drama Sing Sing and Netflix limited series The Madness.

Also active as a director and producer, Domingo was in Sundance this past week in support of It’s What’s Inside, the Greg Jardin horror film snapped up by Netflix in a massive $17M deal, on which he’s an EP.

Colman Domingo to Star as Joe Jackson in the Michael Jackson Biopic “Michael”

Posted on January 25, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Colman Domingo has landed a father of a role…

The 54-year-old Belizean-Guatemalan American actor, who recently earned his first-ever Oscars nomination, has landed the role of Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson in Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International’s Michael Jackson biopic Michael.

Joe Jackson was known for his hard-driving management and often controversial parenting of the Jackson 5. Domingo joins Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, who is playing his King of Pop uncle in the Antoine Fuqua-directed film from Oscar-winning producer Graham King and his GK Films. Three-time Oscar nominee John Logan wrote the screenplay.

“Few actors present themselves with Colman’s screen presence and force of will,” said King. “We’re so fortunate to have an actor with his undeniable talent portraying Joe Jackson on screen. We couldn’t be more excited to have him join us on this journey.”

Fuqua added, “Colman has such incredible range – he puts in the work to deeply inhabit his characters and understand their true essence and motivation. I’m grateful to be working with an actor with his passion and ability to portray the many sides of Joe Jackson: a husband, a father and a manager.”

Domingo said, “I’m excited to be a part of a film that explores both the complicated soul of the legendary Michael Jackson as well as his impact on music and culture as a global icon. Not only am I fortunate to have a rich, complex and flawed character to portray in Joe Jackson, but I also have a front row seat for Jaafar’s incredible transformation. After seeing him in rehearsal, my mind was blown. There is something divine about the way that Jaafar is channeling his late uncle. His talent and embodiment of Michael’s essence is simply on another level.”

Domingo’s turn in Rustin also earned him BAFTA, SAG Award and Golden Globes nominations. He’s also an Emmy winner for his guest role on HBO’s Euphoria and his recent work includes in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Zola, the newly conceived musical film version The Color Purple, as well as his just-completed starring role on Fear the Walking Dead.

Upcoming for the actor is Ethan Coen’s movie Drive-Away Dolls opposite Margaret Qualley, Geraldine Viswanathan, Beanie Feldstein, Pedro Pascal, Bill Camp and Matt Damon, which arrives on February 23.

Later this year, he will be seen starring in the feature film Sing, Sing and in The Madness, a new Netflix limited series.

Michael will be produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain. It is getting an overseas release from Universal Pictures International (sans Japan, which Lionsgate is handling). The film bows day-and-date around the world on April 18, 2025.

Colman Domingo to Serve as Presenter at Primetime Emmy Awards

Posted on January 14, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Colman Domingo is headed to the Emmys…

The 54-year-old Belizean-Guatemalan American actor, who won an Emmy for his guest performance on HBO’s Euphoria, will serve as a presenter at this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, January 15.

Domingo joins a roster of presenters that includes Peter Dinklage, Tom Hiddleston, Ke Huy and Tracee Ellis Ross.

Charlie Puth and acclaimed duo The War and Treaty will perform over the In Memoriam spot, while Travis Barker will team with show host Anthony Anderson for what the show promises will be “a show-stopping open.”

The show will also include cast reunions and tributes to hit TV series spanning more than seven decades, including The Sopranos, Martin, Cheers, Grey’s Anatomy, All in the Family, Ally McBeal and I Love Lucy as well as Saturday Night Live’s signature Weekend Update segment, which will be helmed by Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

The 75th Emmy Awards, executive-produced by Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay of Jesse Collins Entertainment, will broadcast live from the Peacock Theater at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles on Monday, January 15 (8:00-11:00 p.m. ET/5:00-8:00 p.m. PT) on FOX and will also be available the next day on Hulu.

Jacob Elordi Nominated for BAFTA Film Rising Star Award

Posted on January 10, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

Jacob Elordi’s meteoric rise continues…

The 26-year-old half-Spanish Australian actor has been nominated for the prestigious BAFTA Film Rising Star Award 2024 by the by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

Following his breakout roles in The Kissing Booth film trilogy and Euphoria, Elordi led Saltburn opposite Barry Keoghan, Amazon Prime Video’s BAFTA-nominated psychological drama from Emerald Fennell. He also starred as Elvis Presley in the biographical film Priscilla.

Elordi will compete against Bridgerton star Phoebe Dynevor, The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri, Mia McKenna-Bruce, who led hit British indie film How to Have Sex, and Talk to Me’s Sophie Wilde.

Nominees were announced by actor and producer Stephen Graham at a press conference hosted by film critic and radio host, Ali Plumb.

The jury, chaired by Anna Higgs, BAFTA Film Committee Chair, featured actors Daisy Edgar-Jones, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and Himesh Patel, casting directors Lucy Bevan (The Batman), and Nina Gold (Game of Thrones), film producer Adam Ackland (The End We Start From) alongside leading industry specialists.

Last year’s gong was won by Sex Education’s Emma Mackey and previous winners include Letitia Wright, Daniel Kaluuya, John Boyega and Tom Holland.

“These remarkable individuals represent what BAFTA and the EE Rising Star Award stand for as the future of the film industry, embodying innovation, dedication, and a commitment to storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide,” said BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip.

Host Ali Plumb added: “Each rising star talent deserves this spotlight, having provided extraordinary performances serving as inspiration for the next generation.”

Amanda Serrano to Fight Nina Meinke in Puerto Rico This March

Posted on December 25, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Amanda Serrano is ready to battle in her homeland…

The 35-year-old Puerto Rican professional boxer, mixed martial artist and professional wrestler, the boxing unified women’s featherweight champion, will headline a fight in Puerto Rico early next year — with Jake Paul in the co-main event, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) has announced.

Serrano will defend her belts against Germany’s Nina Meinke on March 2 in San Juan. Paul will compete against an opponent yet to be named in the co-headliner. And 17-year-old Javon “Wanna” Walton, an up-and-coming Hollywood star who has a role in the hit show Euphoria, will make his professional boxing debut on the card.

Serrano vs. Meinke is contracted for 12 three-minute rounds. It will be Serrano’s second straight bout competing over three-minute rounds, which is the men’s standard in boxing and is not regularly used for women. Serrano relinquished her WBC women’s featherweight title earlier this month because the sanctioning body would not let her defend the belt in bouts with three-minute rounds.

Serrano (46-2-1, 30 KOs) has won four straight since falling in a close loss to Katie Taylor at Madison Square Garden in April 2022. “The Real Deal” successfully defended her titles against Danila Ramos on October 27. Serrano will be fighting in Puerto Rico for the first time since becoming undisputed champ.

Meinke (18-3, 4 KOs) has won six straight and is coming off a unanimous decision win over Laura Ledezma in October. She has never competed outside of Europe.

Paul (8-1, 5 KOs), a 26-year-old YouTuber-turned-prizefighter, just fought December 15, beating Andre August with a huge uppercut knockout in the first round. The fight in Puerto Rico will represent another lower-profile bout as he gains experience and seasoning en route to what he and his team hopes is a future shot at a boxing world championship.

Also on the card, WBO junior flyweight champion Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez will make his third title defense and 21-year-old Serrano protégé Krystal Rosado will compete in her third pro fight. Both also hail from Puerto Rico.

Enrique Iglesias & Influence Media Partners Agree to Major Partnership Deal

Posted on December 6, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Enrique Iglesias has a new influence…

The 48-year-Spanish superstar and Influence Media Partners have agreed to a major partnership deal.

Influence and Iglesias have partnered on the rights management of his pre-2021 recorded music rights, according to a press release, including his independent masters and his Universal recorded music royalties, along with name, image and likeness (NIL) rights to expand future licensing opportunities for the singer.

This marks the first NIL deal for Influence Media, which last year partnered with Black Rock and Warner Music Group for funding and infrastructure.

“My songs hold immense significance for both my fans and me,” Iglesias said in a statement. “I’m excited to be working with the Influence Media team. I feel confident we will build an enduring partnership for my music and future projects.”

“Enrique is a global icon and having him as a part of our Influence Media family is a game-changing moment for us,” added Lylette Pizarro, Influence Media founder/co-managing partner. “For a quarter of a century, he has captivated fans globally with chart-topping and record-breaking hits. From ‘Experiencia Religiosa’ to ‘Hero’ and ‘Bailando’ to ‘I Like It’ and ‘Be With You,’ there are few artists who come close to accomplishing what Enrique has achieved commercially. He has played a pivotal role in introducing bilingual music to the masses. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with one of the most recognizable figures in modern music.”

“It has been an honor to be part of Enrique’s team for more than two decades,” said John Branca, partner/head of music at Ziffren Brittenham, who represented Iglesias in the deal. “As the most successful Latin artist of all time he is also one of the most accomplished and beloved artists of his generation. Enrique was highly selective in choosing a partner with whom he will enhance his already monumental legacy.”

With a career that spans over three decades, Iglesias is one of the first Spanish-language acts to successfully cross over into the English-language market. He has placed five top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “I Like It,” “Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You)” and “Hero.” He’s also placed three top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 (Escape, Euphoria and Sex And Love) and 27 No. 1 hits on the Hot Latin Songs chart.

Currently on the U.S. Trilogy Tour with Pitbull and Ricky Martin, Iglesias most recently scored his eighth No. 1 on the Tropical Airplay chart with his bachata collab “Así Es La Vida” with Maria Becerra. He is set to drop his new album, Final Vol. 2, next year.

Influence Media previously acquired the commercially-released master recording catalog of Blake Shelton for his 2001-2019 output, Future’s song publishing catalog and Puerto Rican songwriter-producer Tainy’s song publishing catalog from 2005-2021, among other investments.

John Leguizamo Starring in “Bob Trevino Likes It”

Posted on August 24, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

John Leguizamo likes it!

The 63-year-old Colombian actor, comedian and film producer stars in Bob Trevino Likes It, which recently wrapped production in Louisville, Ky.

Bob Trevino Likes It marks the feature debut for writer and director Tracie Laymon.

In addition to Leguizamo, the film also stars Barbie Ferreira, best known for her work on Euphoria.

They appear alongside the previously announced French Stewart, Lauren “Lolo” Spencer and Rachel Bay Jones.

The film is inspired by Laymon’s life. It centers around a people-pleasing young woman who, while searching for her estranged father online, unexpectedly forms a close bond with a grieving, childless man with the same name on Facebook.

“This is a story about learning to let go of the people who continually hurt you to make room for the people who want to love and support you,” says Laymon. “Having personally experienced many of the events that inspired this film, I’ve witnessed how our small acts of kindness toward others create a ripple effect that can change the world for the better.”

“We are so pleased to have been able to help Tracie Laymon and her team get through principal photography. The cast has provided extraordinary performances,” says executive producer Kirk D’Amico. “I think distributors will be pleasantly surprised to see this unique comedy with heart come to life on the screen. We look forward to introducing the film to distributors around the world during this upcoming TIFF.”

Myriad Pictures has acquired worldwide sales rights and will launch sales out of Toronto in September.

The film is one of the first independent productions to be approved for a SAG-AFTRA interim agreement during the actors strike.

Mubi Acquires Distribution Rights Across Multiple Territories for “Priscilla,” Starring Jacob Elordi as Elvis

Posted on August 22, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Jacob Elordi’s king of all projects is going global…

Mubi has acquired the rights across multiple territories for Sofia Coppola’s upcoming feature Priscilla, starring the 26-year-old half-Spanish Australian actor as Elvis Presley.

The announcement comes ahead of the film’s world premiere in Competition at the 80th Venice Film Festival.

Under the deal, the global film distributor, production company and streaming service will retain all rights in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, Latin America, Benelux and Turkey.

The company is planning to release the drama theatrically in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Latin America, Belgium and Netherlands, starting in 2023, and will announce release dates soon.

The Match Factory is handling sales for the rest of the world excluding North America and Italy, which have been previously announced as pre-sold respectively to A24 and Rome-based Sky Italia subsidiary Vision Distribution.

Written and directed by Sofia Coppola, Priscilla is based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me co-authored by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon.

Cailee Spaeny stars as Priscilla opposite Elordi (Euphoria, The Kissing Booth) as Elvis, with Dagmara Dominczyk also featuring in the cast.

The official synopsis reads: “When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley at a party, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a vulnerable best friend. Through Priscilla’s eyes, Sofia Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla’s long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame.”

The production released a teaser trailer for the film back in June, showing quick shots of the Presleys’ story, from her school girl years and his Army days through marriage, pregnancy, parenthood and fame.

The film unites Coppola with a number of long-time collaborators including cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd, costume designer Stacey Battat, editor Sarah Flack and production designer Tamara Deverell.

The Match Factory is handling international sales for both films.

The Venice Film Festival runs August 9 to September 9.

AMC Releases Trailer for Colman Domingo’s Travel Series “You Are Here”

Posted on June 14, 2023 by Tom Castaneda

Colman Domingo is here for it all…

AMC has released the official trailer for the 53-year-old Belizean-Guatemalan American actor and social justice activist’s upcoming travel series You Are Here.

Domingo, an Emmy and Tony Award winner, appears as host on the show, sharing personal and national stories as he takes viewers through four American cities: Savannah, Philadelphia, New York and Chicago.

The first two episodes premiere on June 19 at 7 p.m. ET.

Domingo is an award-winning actor, writer and director.

The Euphoria star has directed episodes of Fear of the Walking Dead and starred in the 2021 film Candyman.

You Are Here is produced by Domingo’s Edith Production and ZeroPointZero, and it was created in partnership with Johnnie Walker.

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