Exclusive: Warner Bros. Pictures Animation is heading to the Discovery vault to adapt their Animal Planet series, Meerkat Manor, into a feature animated movie. Think Happy Feet. That George Miller hatched franchise which centered around tap-dancing penguins raked in over a half billion at the global box office.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Animal Planet first aired Meerkat Manor in 2005, with the series becoming the network’s highest rated show over its four seasons. The Emmy-nominated series reached 204 million households in more than 160 countries on the Animal Planet platform alone.
The Animal Planet docuseries followed the Whiskers, a family of meerkats, as they struggled to survive in South Africa’s Kalahari Desert. Similar to Happy Feet, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation will use photoreal animation to capture the Whiskers for their feature film debut.
The Meerkat Manor movie will be produced by Seth Green and Tracy Falco of The Green Room. Pic...
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Animal Planet first aired Meerkat Manor in 2005, with the series becoming the network’s highest rated show over its four seasons. The Emmy-nominated series reached 204 million households in more than 160 countries on the Animal Planet platform alone.
The Animal Planet docuseries followed the Whiskers, a family of meerkats, as they struggled to survive in South Africa’s Kalahari Desert. Similar to Happy Feet, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation will use photoreal animation to capture the Whiskers for their feature film debut.
The Meerkat Manor movie will be produced by Seth Green and Tracy Falco of The Green Room. Pic...
- 4/16/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Bill Hader is been cast in a Dr. Seuss movie!
The 45-year-old Emmy-winning actor will be voicing the titular character in Warner Bros. upcoming animated adaption of The Cat in the Hat, which will be directed and written by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, Deadline reports.
Fellow stars voicing characters in the new movie include Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, and Paula Pell.
Keep reading to find out more…As of right now, The Cat in the Hat is scheduled to hit theaters on March 6, 2026 and will follow The Cat as he cheers on a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
“We are overjoyed to partner with our friends at Dr. Seuss to take audiences of all ages on an adventure into the beloved world of The Cat in the Hat, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation President Bill Damaschke shared in a statement.
The 45-year-old Emmy-winning actor will be voicing the titular character in Warner Bros. upcoming animated adaption of The Cat in the Hat, which will be directed and written by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, Deadline reports.
Fellow stars voicing characters in the new movie include Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, and Paula Pell.
Keep reading to find out more…As of right now, The Cat in the Hat is scheduled to hit theaters on March 6, 2026 and will follow The Cat as he cheers on a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
“We are overjoyed to partner with our friends at Dr. Seuss to take audiences of all ages on an adventure into the beloved world of The Cat in the Hat, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation President Bill Damaschke shared in a statement.
- 3/18/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Quinta Brunson and Bill HaderPhoto: Rodin Eckenroth (Getty Images)
Bill Hader and Quinta Brunson created two of TV’s best comedies, albeit in very different ways, of the past decade. The creators and stars of Barry and Abbott Elementary, respectively, are now teaming up for another project. Sadly, it’s not an enticing,...
Bill Hader and Quinta Brunson created two of TV’s best comedies, albeit in very different ways, of the past decade. The creators and stars of Barry and Abbott Elementary, respectively, are now teaming up for another project. Sadly, it’s not an enticing,...
- 3/18/2024
- by Saloni Gajjar
- avclub.com
Something is going Bump at Warner Bros. Animation, with President Bill Damaschke looking to turn the studio’s reputation around with an exciting announcement. A new animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat wants to play at WB, and cast members are already creating chaos and giving nervous fish a panic attack. Saturday Night Live and Barry star Bill Hader plays the Cat, with Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry and Paula Pell starring as primary cast members.
Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja direct the new feature version of The Cat in the Hat from a script they wrote. Hoping to cause family-friendly havoc in theaters on March 6, 2026, The Cat in the Hat focuses on an imaginative cat trying to cheer up a pair of siblings who’ve moved to a new town. As the adventure unfolds, the Cat introduces the children to his friends,...
Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja direct the new feature version of The Cat in the Hat from a script they wrote. Hoping to cause family-friendly havoc in theaters on March 6, 2026, The Cat in the Hat focuses on an imaginative cat trying to cheer up a pair of siblings who’ve moved to a new town. As the adventure unfolds, the Cat introduces the children to his friends,...
- 3/18/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Bill Hader is going from playing a hitman turned actor to leading the voice cast of an animated remake of Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat.
The movie will open in theaters on March 6th, 2026, with Hader’s The Cat joined by Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, and Paula Pell. Written and directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, The Cat in the Hat is a joint effort between Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
First published in 1957, The Cat in the Hat revolves around the titular anthropomorphic cat, known for his red-and-white striped top hat and red bow tie. In the book, he attempts to entertain a girl named Sally and her brother but wrecks their house in the process.
“We are overjoyed to partner with our friends at Dr. Seuss to take audiences of all ages on an adventure into the beloved...
The movie will open in theaters on March 6th, 2026, with Hader’s The Cat joined by Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, and Paula Pell. Written and directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, The Cat in the Hat is a joint effort between Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
First published in 1957, The Cat in the Hat revolves around the titular anthropomorphic cat, known for his red-and-white striped top hat and red bow tie. In the book, he attempts to entertain a girl named Sally and her brother but wrecks their house in the process.
“We are overjoyed to partner with our friends at Dr. Seuss to take audiences of all ages on an adventure into the beloved...
- 3/18/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
Bill Hader is set to star as “The Cat in the Hat” for an upcoming animated feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, the companies announced on Monday.
The animated feature will hit theaters worldwide on Mar. 6, 2026.
Along with Hader, the all-star voice cast includes Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”), Bowen Yang (“SNL”), Xochitl Gomez (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”), Matt Berry (“What We Do in the Shadows”) and Paula Pell (“Girls5eva”).
The official logline for the new animated movie is as follows: In the wonderfully whimsical tradition of Dr. Seuss, “The Cat in the Hat” comes to the big screen in his animated theatrical feature film debut, doing what he does best — spreading joy to “happyless” kids. In the film, The Cat takes on his toughest assignment yet … to cheer a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
“The Cat in the Hat...
The animated feature will hit theaters worldwide on Mar. 6, 2026.
Along with Hader, the all-star voice cast includes Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”), Bowen Yang (“SNL”), Xochitl Gomez (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”), Matt Berry (“What We Do in the Shadows”) and Paula Pell (“Girls5eva”).
The official logline for the new animated movie is as follows: In the wonderfully whimsical tradition of Dr. Seuss, “The Cat in the Hat” comes to the big screen in his animated theatrical feature film debut, doing what he does best — spreading joy to “happyless” kids. In the film, The Cat takes on his toughest assignment yet … to cheer a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
“The Cat in the Hat...
- 3/18/2024
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Bill Hader or, at least, an animated character that he voices, will don a red-and-white striped top hat in a new adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat.”
The “Barry” star will lead a vocal ensemble that also includes Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”), Bowen Yang (“SNL”), Xochitl Gomez (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”), Matt Berry (“What We Do in The Shadows”) and Paula Pell (“Girls5eva”). Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises officially announced the casting on Monday.
“The Cat in the Hat” will open in theaters on March 6, 2026. Although the book is a children’s classic, it has a checkered cinematic legacy. A 2003 live-action adaptation, starring Mike Myers as he was riding high off of “Austin Powers,” collapsed at the box office. It earned $134 million on a $109 million budget and became a money-loser when marketing and distribution costs were factored into the equation. It...
The “Barry” star will lead a vocal ensemble that also includes Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”), Bowen Yang (“SNL”), Xochitl Gomez (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”), Matt Berry (“What We Do in The Shadows”) and Paula Pell (“Girls5eva”). Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises officially announced the casting on Monday.
“The Cat in the Hat” will open in theaters on March 6, 2026. Although the book is a children’s classic, it has a checkered cinematic legacy. A 2003 live-action adaptation, starring Mike Myers as he was riding high off of “Austin Powers,” collapsed at the box office. It earned $134 million on a $109 million budget and became a money-loser when marketing and distribution costs were factored into the equation. It...
- 3/18/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The new Warner Bros. Pictures Animation under President Bill Damaschke has booked the cast for their upcoming feature take of the Dr. Seuss classic, The Cat in the Hat, which they’re producing with Dr. Seuss Enterprises with SNL alum Bill Hader playing the title role. Joining him are Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Bowen Yang (SNL), Xochitl Gomez (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Matt Berry (What We Do in The Shadows) and Paula Pell (Girls5eva).
A global theatrical release of March 6, 2026 has been set. In this new feature version, directed and written by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, The Cat takes on his toughest assignment yet… to cheer a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
Pic is produced by Daniela Mazzucato and Jared Stern. Hader and Susan Brandt, the President and CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises are EPs. Dneg Animation will be the animation studio partner.
A global theatrical release of March 6, 2026 has been set. In this new feature version, directed and written by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, The Cat takes on his toughest assignment yet… to cheer a pair of siblings struggling with their move to a new town.
Pic is produced by Daniela Mazzucato and Jared Stern. Hader and Susan Brandt, the President and CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises are EPs. Dneg Animation will be the animation studio partner.
- 3/18/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Bill Hader is learning how to meow.
Warner Bros. announced Monday it will release its animated event pic The Cat in the Hat — based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale — in theaters on March 6, 2026. It also revealed the movie’s voice cast for the first time. Hader, who will play The Cat, will star opposite Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Bowen Yang (SNL), Xochitl Gomez (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Matt Berry (What We Do in The Shadows) and Paula Pell (Girls5eva).
The film is being written and directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, with Daniela Mazzucato and Jared Stern producing. Susan Brandt, president-ceo of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, and Hader will executive produce. Dneg Animation will be the animation studio partner.
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises are backing the feature, which centers on the fanciful feline as he tries to cheer up a pair...
Warner Bros. announced Monday it will release its animated event pic The Cat in the Hat — based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale — in theaters on March 6, 2026. It also revealed the movie’s voice cast for the first time. Hader, who will play The Cat, will star opposite Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Bowen Yang (SNL), Xochitl Gomez (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Matt Berry (What We Do in The Shadows) and Paula Pell (Girls5eva).
The film is being written and directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, with Daniela Mazzucato and Jared Stern producing. Susan Brandt, president-ceo of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, and Hader will executive produce. Dneg Animation will be the animation studio partner.
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and Dr. Seuss Enterprises are backing the feature, which centers on the fanciful feline as he tries to cheer up a pair...
- 3/18/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Update: Will Forte has an update about the shelved Coyote vs. Acme movie that could make you feel like you’ve run face-first into a fake tunnel painted on a mountainside. WB executives killed the film in November, leading to social media outrage from cinephiles tired of seeing higher-ups scrap films in favor of a tax cut and other “benefits.” Forte knows people’s anger toward Warner’s decision to shelve Coyote vs. Acme and has some words to add to the ongoing conversation.
In a social media post this morning, Forte said, “I know that a lot of you haven’t gotten a chance to see our movie. And sadly, it’s a looking like you never will.” Forte also says that when he heard the film was getting deleted, he had yet to see it.
“So I was thinking what everyone else must have been thinking: this thing...
In a social media post this morning, Forte said, “I know that a lot of you haven’t gotten a chance to see our movie. And sadly, it’s a looking like you never will.” Forte also says that when he heard the film was getting deleted, he had yet to see it.
“So I was thinking what everyone else must have been thinking: this thing...
- 2/29/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation is expanding its executive team under President Bill Damaschke, adding Kim Mackey and Jessie Carbonaro, as EVP of Production Talent and VP of Production Talent, respectively, and elevating Susan Akinbola to VP of Development.
Mackey was most recently head of recruiting for Netflix Animation. She will be overseeing the hiring across the film, series, and adult animation divisions, responsible for recruiting and talent development strategy as well as the artistic management and training for the feature film animation division. Prior to Netflix, she led recruiting for DreamWorks Animation, where she also worked in production and executives roles for Prince of Egypt, Spirit, Shark Tale, and Flushed Away. As a talent acquisition studio executive, she managed resource needs across the studio’s production slate including franchises Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon.
Carbonaro also joins from Netflix where she was director of talent acquisition for feature animation.
Mackey was most recently head of recruiting for Netflix Animation. She will be overseeing the hiring across the film, series, and adult animation divisions, responsible for recruiting and talent development strategy as well as the artistic management and training for the feature film animation division. Prior to Netflix, she led recruiting for DreamWorks Animation, where she also worked in production and executives roles for Prince of Egypt, Spirit, Shark Tale, and Flushed Away. As a talent acquisition studio executive, she managed resource needs across the studio’s production slate including franchises Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon.
Carbonaro also joins from Netflix where she was director of talent acquisition for feature animation.
- 2/27/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Those following the saga of Coyote vs. Acme waited with bated breath Friday for Warner Bros. Discovery’s earnings report to hint at any signs of the animated film’s fate.
The feature became the most talked about movie in town on Nov. 10, when The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Warners intended to scrap the movie. The outcry from filmmakers on social media was swift, and Warners soon reversed course, and decided to allow director Dave Green to shop the film to other buyers — something Green had been preparing to do when Warners surprised him by scrapping the film. Green ultimately showed the film to multiple buyers, with at least one bid coming in at around $40 million, according to one source.
Friday brought no definitive news on Coyote vs. Acme‘s future, but there are troubling signs for those rooting for its release. As part of an earnings filing,...
The feature became the most talked about movie in town on Nov. 10, when The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Warners intended to scrap the movie. The outcry from filmmakers on social media was swift, and Warners soon reversed course, and decided to allow director Dave Green to shop the film to other buyers — something Green had been preparing to do when Warners surprised him by scrapping the film. Green ultimately showed the film to multiple buyers, with at least one bid coming in at around $40 million, according to one source.
Friday brought no definitive news on Coyote vs. Acme‘s future, but there are troubling signs for those rooting for its release. As part of an earnings filing,...
- 2/24/2024
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It looks like the Coyote vs. Acme movie starring John Cena won’t see the light of day after all. According to a report in TheWrap, the hybrid live-action/animated film hasn’t found a new distributor after Warner Bros. turned down offers from multiple would-be buyers.
This past November, Warner Bros. confirmed it was permanently shelving Coyote vs. Acme for a tax write-off. Following public outcry, the studio reversed course just days later, allowing the filmmakers to shop the project to other distributors.
However, TheWrap reports that Warner Bros. was looking for a hefty asking price, effectively torpedoing any chance of a sale. Netflix, Amazon, and Paramount reportedly submitted “handsome offers” to acquire the movie.
In a “take it or leave it” scenario, Warner Bros. held steadfast in seeking $75 – $80 million — double the amount of $35 – $40 million it would make on the tax write-off — and didn’t take any counteroffers.
All this time,...
This past November, Warner Bros. confirmed it was permanently shelving Coyote vs. Acme for a tax write-off. Following public outcry, the studio reversed course just days later, allowing the filmmakers to shop the project to other distributors.
However, TheWrap reports that Warner Bros. was looking for a hefty asking price, effectively torpedoing any chance of a sale. Netflix, Amazon, and Paramount reportedly submitted “handsome offers” to acquire the movie.
In a “take it or leave it” scenario, Warner Bros. held steadfast in seeking $75 – $80 million — double the amount of $35 – $40 million it would make on the tax write-off — and didn’t take any counteroffers.
All this time,...
- 2/9/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
Remember that brief moment in November of 2023 where we all thought Warner Bros. wasn't led by a soulless, money-hungry ghoul but by human beings who could see reason and allow "Coyote vs. Acme" to be shopped to other studios rather than delete it from existence? Well, that didn't last long.
In a damning report by TheWrap, it appears David Zaslav, head of Warner Bros. Discovery and eternal enemy of the Animaniacs, has reversed course and decided no one should ever watch the finished film "Coyote vs. Acme" even if other studios were willing to pay money for it. As producer Chris DeFaria told TheWrap, "They just want to get this behind them," referring to what he heard from a Warner Bros. executive in early January. "They want to close the books." According to TheWrap, Warner Bros. won't even announce that they were unable to find a home for the film.
In a damning report by TheWrap, it appears David Zaslav, head of Warner Bros. Discovery and eternal enemy of the Animaniacs, has reversed course and decided no one should ever watch the finished film "Coyote vs. Acme" even if other studios were willing to pay money for it. As producer Chris DeFaria told TheWrap, "They just want to get this behind them," referring to what he heard from a Warner Bros. executive in early January. "They want to close the books." According to TheWrap, Warner Bros. won't even announce that they were unable to find a home for the film.
- 2/9/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Some have already seen a screening of the Warner Bros. squashed live-action hybrid animated movie Coyote vs. Acme, and they’re giving a big endorsement on social. As we reported the Warner Bros new motion picture administration of Michael De Luca, Pam Abdy and animation head Bill Damaschke axed the film for a $30M tax writedown. However, now the movie is being shopped with Apple, Amazon and Netflix taking interest. We hear that some of those streamers are catching the movie in the near future.
We also hear that the screening, which drew a huge applause at the end, and had wall-to-wall laughs, had Nun 2 Michael Chaves in attendance as well as Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once filmmaker Daniel Scheinert, in addition to pic’s cast of Will Forte, Lana Candor and P.J. Byrne and Coyote vs. Acme director Dave Green.
Said Lego Movie co-director and Spider-verse producer Christopher Miller,...
We also hear that the screening, which drew a huge applause at the end, and had wall-to-wall laughs, had Nun 2 Michael Chaves in attendance as well as Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once filmmaker Daniel Scheinert, in addition to pic’s cast of Will Forte, Lana Candor and P.J. Byrne and Coyote vs. Acme director Dave Green.
Said Lego Movie co-director and Spider-verse producer Christopher Miller,...
- 11/15/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Texas congressman Joaquin Castro has taken to X to slam Warner Bros Discovery for axing the $70M Coyote vs. Acme for a reported $30M tax writeoff.
That said, as we first reported, the studio is changing course this week and screening the film for potential buyers, i.e. Amazon Prime (a leading contender), Apple and Netflix. This pivot by studio brass was made after a weekend in which the studio’s phone rang off the hook as the creative community complained about the canceling of the finished film. There also was an outcry by the pic’s composer Steven Price, among others online.
“The @Wbd tactic of scrapping fully made films for tax breaks is predatory and anti-competitive,” wrote Castro, who has protested Wbd before on antitrust issues.
“As the Justice Department and @FTC revise their antitrust guidelines they should review this conduct,” he continued.
“As someone remarked, it’s...
That said, as we first reported, the studio is changing course this week and screening the film for potential buyers, i.e. Amazon Prime (a leading contender), Apple and Netflix. This pivot by studio brass was made after a weekend in which the studio’s phone rang off the hook as the creative community complained about the canceling of the finished film. There also was an outcry by the pic’s composer Steven Price, among others online.
“The @Wbd tactic of scrapping fully made films for tax breaks is predatory and anti-competitive,” wrote Castro, who has protested Wbd before on antitrust issues.
“As the Justice Department and @FTC revise their antitrust guidelines they should review this conduct,” he continued.
“As someone remarked, it’s...
- 11/14/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Article updated at 2:54Pm Screenings are being set up this week for streamers Amazon Prime Video, Apple and Netflix to check out and potentially acquire Warner Bros’ axed Looney Tunes movie Coyote vs. Acme after the studio’s phone ran off the hook the entire weekend from angry filmmakers and talent reps over their third feature film kill after Batgirl and Scoob Holiday Haunt!
The more egregious Hollywood sin with Coyote vs. Acme is that it’s a finished film was intended for a theatrical release, while the other two movies were still in the works.
Of those kicking the tires, even though no deals have been drafted, I hear Amazon is a leading contender given the fact that Courtenay Valenti, the Head of Film, Streaming and Theatrical for Amazon Studios and MGM, was a big champion and linchpin for the movie while she was President of Production...
The more egregious Hollywood sin with Coyote vs. Acme is that it’s a finished film was intended for a theatrical release, while the other two movies were still in the works.
Of those kicking the tires, even though no deals have been drafted, I hear Amazon is a leading contender given the fact that Courtenay Valenti, the Head of Film, Streaming and Theatrical for Amazon Studios and MGM, was a big champion and linchpin for the movie while she was President of Production...
- 11/13/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. has reportedly reversed course on the Coyote vs. Acme movie starring John Cena. According to Puck News, the studio will now allow the filmmakers to shop the project to other distributors after shelving it for a tax write-off just last week.
Puck News’ Matthew Belloni reports that the abrupt decision was made by Warner film executives Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy alongside new head of animation Bill Damaschke after online backlash from Coyote vs. Acme director Dave Green and composer Steven Price, as well as the animation community overall.
Amazon is one of the contenders to pick up Coyote vs. Acme, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Screenings will take place for potential buyers this month.
“For three years, I was lucky enough to make a movie about Wile E. Coyote, the most persistent, passionate, and resilient character of all time,” Green wrote on Twitter about the James Gunn-produced film.
Puck News’ Matthew Belloni reports that the abrupt decision was made by Warner film executives Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy alongside new head of animation Bill Damaschke after online backlash from Coyote vs. Acme director Dave Green and composer Steven Price, as well as the animation community overall.
Amazon is one of the contenders to pick up Coyote vs. Acme, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Screenings will take place for potential buyers this month.
“For three years, I was lucky enough to make a movie about Wile E. Coyote, the most persistent, passionate, and resilient character of all time,” Green wrote on Twitter about the James Gunn-produced film.
- 11/13/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
Last week, filmmakers, critics and movie fans showed a rare, completely united front in castigating the move by Warner Bros. to lock another of its projects away in a vault, preferring to take a tax write-down instead of releasing it, as with Batgirl and Scoob! Holiday Haunt last year. The new movie was Coyote Vs. Acme, which blends CG Wile E. Coyote with live-action John Cena and more. Now, after the outcry, Puck brings word that executives are reportedly changing their minds and allowing the movie's producers to shop it elsewhere.
Earth To Echo (see review)[/link]Dave Green directed the film, with Samy Birch on script duty (adapting a New Yorker article of the same title by Ian Frazier). James Gunn (who currently runs WB's DC Studios) worked on the story and is an executive producer.
Earth To Echo (see review)[/link]Dave Green directed the film, with Samy Birch on script duty (adapting a New Yorker article of the same title by Ian Frazier). James Gunn (who currently runs WB's DC Studios) worked on the story and is an executive producer.
- 11/13/2023
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
“Coyote Vs. Acme” may have just dodged a fatal anvil.
The live-action/animated movie is getting a new shot at being released after Warner Bros. pulled the plug on the completed film. John Cena and Will Forte star in the Warner Bros. movie, with the studio announcing November 9 that it would be scrapped for a tax write-off for Warner Bros. Discovery’s Q3 earnings. The $70 million project was completed in New Mexico in 2022 and was set to stream on Max July 21. James Gunn produced the feature and was also credited with the story; “May December” screenwriter Samy Burch penned the script with Dave Green directing.
Now, Warner Bros. is allowing director Green to shop the movie to other potential distributors, as IndieWire confirmed. Puck first reported the news.
Per Puck, Warner Bros. film chiefs Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, plus animation head Bill Damaschke, decided to let “Coyote Vs. Acme...
The live-action/animated movie is getting a new shot at being released after Warner Bros. pulled the plug on the completed film. John Cena and Will Forte star in the Warner Bros. movie, with the studio announcing November 9 that it would be scrapped for a tax write-off for Warner Bros. Discovery’s Q3 earnings. The $70 million project was completed in New Mexico in 2022 and was set to stream on Max July 21. James Gunn produced the feature and was also credited with the story; “May December” screenwriter Samy Burch penned the script with Dave Green directing.
Now, Warner Bros. is allowing director Green to shop the movie to other potential distributors, as IndieWire confirmed. Puck first reported the news.
Per Puck, Warner Bros. film chiefs Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, plus animation head Bill Damaschke, decided to let “Coyote Vs. Acme...
- 11/13/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Last week, Warner Bros. made headlines and raised eyebrows when they revealed they would not be releasing their completed live-action/animation hybrid movie "Coyote vs. Acme." The news came with the following statement:
"With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its global strategy to focus on theatrical releases. With this new direction, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with 'Coyote vs Acme.' We have tremendous respect for the filmmakers, casts, and crew, and are grateful for their contributions to the film."
Needless to say, this did not go over well. Folks involved with the film and everyday individuals just eager to see the flick took to social media to unleash outrage on Warner Bros. and its CEO David Zaslav. Zaslav has become a lightning rod for anti-art controversy, as it really seems like he's a movie studio...
"With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its global strategy to focus on theatrical releases. With this new direction, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with 'Coyote vs Acme.' We have tremendous respect for the filmmakers, casts, and crew, and are grateful for their contributions to the film."
Needless to say, this did not go over well. Folks involved with the film and everyday individuals just eager to see the flick took to social media to unleash outrage on Warner Bros. and its CEO David Zaslav. Zaslav has become a lightning rod for anti-art controversy, as it really seems like he's a movie studio...
- 11/13/2023
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
Filming for the Coyote vs. Acme movie starring John Cena completed in 2022, but audiences won’t ever get to see the finished product. On Thursday, Warner Bros. confirmed that the film has been permanently shelved in favor of a tax write-off.
A Looney Tunes hybrid film produced by James Gunn, Coyote vs. Acme was first announced in December 2020 and reportedly cost around $72 million to make, with principal photography wrapping last year in New Mexico. It was originally slated for release on Max on July 21st, 2023, and later considered for theatrical release, but was eventually removed from the Warner Bros. release calendar in April 2022 (with the July 21st release date ultimately going to Barbie instead). Now, the confirmation that it’s been shelved is arriving after a change-up at Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and the ascent of its new leader, Bill Damaschke, who is seeking to prioritize theatrical releases over streaming titles.
A Looney Tunes hybrid film produced by James Gunn, Coyote vs. Acme was first announced in December 2020 and reportedly cost around $72 million to make, with principal photography wrapping last year in New Mexico. It was originally slated for release on Max on July 21st, 2023, and later considered for theatrical release, but was eventually removed from the Warner Bros. release calendar in April 2022 (with the July 21st release date ultimately going to Barbie instead). Now, the confirmation that it’s been shelved is arriving after a change-up at Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and the ascent of its new leader, Bill Damaschke, who is seeking to prioritize theatrical releases over streaming titles.
- 11/10/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Film News
Warner Bros. has shelved 'Coyote vs. Acme'.The studio has decided not to release the live-action/animated hybrid film based on the Looney Tunes characters that had been set to star John Cena, Will Forte and Lana Condor.The film was due to follow Wile E. Coyote, who after Acme products fail him constantly in his dogged pursuit of the Roadrunner, decides to hire a lawyer to sue the corporation.The case pits Wile E. and his lawyer against the Acme company's intimidating former boss (Cena), but a growing friendship between man and cartoon stokes the pair's determination to win.The project – based on the 1990 New Yorker magazine article 'Coyote vs. Acme' by Ian Frazier - had completed principal photography in New Mexico last year but the decision to abandon the release comes after veteran executive Bill Damaschke took charge of the Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
- 11/10/2023
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Another Warner Bros. movie bites the dust.
The studio no longer plans to release “Coyote vs. Acme,” a live action-animation hybrid starring John Cena, which completed filming in 2022. A similar situation transpired a little over a year ago as Warner Bros. shocked the entertainment industry by shelving the $90 million-budgeted DC adventure “Batgirl” and the kid-friendly “Scoob! Holiday Haunt” as tax write-offs.
Those films, as well as the $30 million “Coyote vs. Acme,” were greenlit by the former regime, led by Jason Kilar and intended for release on HBO Max. His successor, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, has shifted the studio’s priorities back to theatrical and felt this movie didn’t fit with the new creative direction of the company. The decision also comes after Bill Damaschke took over Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
“With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its...
The studio no longer plans to release “Coyote vs. Acme,” a live action-animation hybrid starring John Cena, which completed filming in 2022. A similar situation transpired a little over a year ago as Warner Bros. shocked the entertainment industry by shelving the $90 million-budgeted DC adventure “Batgirl” and the kid-friendly “Scoob! Holiday Haunt” as tax write-offs.
Those films, as well as the $30 million “Coyote vs. Acme,” were greenlit by the former regime, led by Jason Kilar and intended for release on HBO Max. His successor, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, has shifted the studio’s priorities back to theatrical and felt this movie didn’t fit with the new creative direction of the company. The decision also comes after Bill Damaschke took over Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
“With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its...
- 11/9/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
In another maneuver by the David Zaslav-run Warner Bros Discovery to kill movies, we hear on very good authority that Warner Bros will not be releasing the hybrid live-action/animated Coyote vs. Acme, with the conglom taking an estimated $30M write-down on the $70M production. We understand the write-down for the pic was applied to the recently reported Q3.
This reps the third time that Zaslav’s Warner Bros has pulled the plug on a movie greenlighted by the previous Warner Media administration, the other two being the Max-destined Batgirl and the animated Scoob Holiday Haunt!
The difference here is that Coyote vs. Acme is a completed movie with very good test scores, 14 points above the family norm. We’re told that the cash-strapped Warners finds that it’s not worth the cost to release the film theatrically or to sell to other buyers (and there are parties who...
This reps the third time that Zaslav’s Warner Bros has pulled the plug on a movie greenlighted by the previous Warner Media administration, the other two being the Max-destined Batgirl and the animated Scoob Holiday Haunt!
The difference here is that Coyote vs. Acme is a completed movie with very good test scores, 14 points above the family norm. We’re told that the cash-strapped Warners finds that it’s not worth the cost to release the film theatrically or to sell to other buyers (and there are parties who...
- 11/9/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
A little over a year after the shelving of Batgirl sent shockwaves throughout Hollywood, Warner Bros. is putting another of its films in the studio vault.
Warners no longer plans to release Coyote vs. Acme, a live-action, CG animation hybrid that completed principal photography last year in New Mexico. The move follows veteran animation executive Bill Damaschke taking over Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
“For three years, I was lucky enough to make a movie about Wile E. Coyote, the most persistent, passionate, and resilient character of al time,” filmmaker Dave Green wrote on X after this story initially published. “I was surrounded by a brilliant team, who poured their souls into this project. … Along the ride, we were embraced by test audiences who rewarded us with fantastic scores.”
The feature, which sources believe cost around $72 million to make, had key Warners talent involved in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
Warners no longer plans to release Coyote vs. Acme, a live-action, CG animation hybrid that completed principal photography last year in New Mexico. The move follows veteran animation executive Bill Damaschke taking over Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
“For three years, I was lucky enough to make a movie about Wile E. Coyote, the most persistent, passionate, and resilient character of al time,” filmmaker Dave Green wrote on X after this story initially published. “I was surrounded by a brilliant team, who poured their souls into this project. … Along the ride, we were embraced by test audiences who rewarded us with fantastic scores.”
The feature, which sources believe cost around $72 million to make, had key Warners talent involved in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
- 11/9/2023
- by Borys Kit and Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Robbie Fairchild, a Broadway lead and former New York City Ballet principal dancer, will star in the stage version of Michel Hazanavicius’ 2011 Oscar-winning movie The Artist, set in the 1920s when movies found their voice with the advent of talking pictures.
Fairchild received a Tony Award nomination for An American In Paris, another show based on a celebrated movie when it premiered on Broadway in 2015. Two years later, he helped launch that show in the West End.
In The Artist, he will play Silent Era matinee idol George Valentin, who finds his career torn away from him when the talkies arrive.
The part won French actor Jean Dujardin the Best Actor Oscar.
The Artist, co-written for the theater by Drew McOnie and playwright and screenwriter Lindsey Ferrentino, will have its world premiere at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from May 11 to May...
Fairchild received a Tony Award nomination for An American In Paris, another show based on a celebrated movie when it premiered on Broadway in 2015. Two years later, he helped launch that show in the West End.
In The Artist, he will play Silent Era matinee idol George Valentin, who finds his career torn away from him when the talkies arrive.
The part won French actor Jean Dujardin the Best Actor Oscar.
The Artist, co-written for the theater by Drew McOnie and playwright and screenwriter Lindsey Ferrentino, will have its world premiere at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from May 11 to May...
- 9/28/2023
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation has hired Shane Prigmore to serve as Senior Creative Advisor for the newly relaunched film unit under President Bill Damaschke.
In addition to advising on creative development for Wbpa’s ambitious production slate, Prigmore will also direct a film for the unit. He will be based at the studio’s HQ in Burbank, reporting directly to Damaschke.
A veteran of Skydance Animation, Walt Disney Television Animation, DreamWorks Animation, and Laika, the Annie Award winner returns to Warner Bros. more than two decades after the company gave him his start on the seminal animated classic The Iron Giant.
Prigmore’s announcement comes just as Damaschke has outlined his strategy for the newly relaunched features animation division to energize its legacy IP and develop partnerships with artists and creators worldwide to foster a slate of original storytelling resonant with global audiences of all ages.
“Shane is a trusted...
In addition to advising on creative development for Wbpa’s ambitious production slate, Prigmore will also direct a film for the unit. He will be based at the studio’s HQ in Burbank, reporting directly to Damaschke.
A veteran of Skydance Animation, Walt Disney Television Animation, DreamWorks Animation, and Laika, the Annie Award winner returns to Warner Bros. more than two decades after the company gave him his start on the seminal animated classic The Iron Giant.
Prigmore’s announcement comes just as Damaschke has outlined his strategy for the newly relaunched features animation division to energize its legacy IP and develop partnerships with artists and creators worldwide to foster a slate of original storytelling resonant with global audiences of all ages.
“Shane is a trusted...
- 6/13/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group has signed a first-look deal with London- and Los Angeles-based Locksmith Animation to develop and produce animated features for worldwide distribution.
Locksmith is an independent producer of animated features and series and was behind the 20th Century Studios feature Ron’s Gone Wrong. That pic was released theatrically and on Disney+ in 2021.
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’
The first of Locksmith’s two properties being developed under the new deal is Bad Fairies, a subversive musical comedy set in contemporary London. It focuses on a badass gang of fairies who break every rule in the book. Deborah Frances-White, creator and host of podcast The Guilty Feminist, is writing the screenplay. Megan Nicole Dong, creator and director of Netflix’s animated musical series Centaurworld, is attached to direct.
The second project is The Lunar Chronicles, based on Marissa Meyer’s bestselling novels. A sci-fi twist on Grimms’ Fairy Tales,...
Locksmith is an independent producer of animated features and series and was behind the 20th Century Studios feature Ron’s Gone Wrong. That pic was released theatrically and on Disney+ in 2021.
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’
The first of Locksmith’s two properties being developed under the new deal is Bad Fairies, a subversive musical comedy set in contemporary London. It focuses on a badass gang of fairies who break every rule in the book. Deborah Frances-White, creator and host of podcast The Guilty Feminist, is writing the screenplay. Megan Nicole Dong, creator and director of Netflix’s animated musical series Centaurworld, is attached to direct.
The second project is The Lunar Chronicles, based on Marissa Meyer’s bestselling novels. A sci-fi twist on Grimms’ Fairy Tales,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: As the Annecy Animation Film Festival gets underway this weekend, Warner Bros’ newly hired President of Feature Animation Bill Damaschke has announced a rebranding of the motion picture division with a focus on filmmakers.
Previously known as Wag, aka Warner Animation Group, the Burbank, CA lot’s feature toon unit will now be known as Warner Bros Pictures Animation.
“It’s honoring the past and rich history of the company. Warner Bros Pictures Animation released movies like Iron Giant, Space Jam, Corpse Bride, Polar Express, Happy Feet and The Lego Movie — benchmark films that broke new ground, new technology, new ways of telling stories and were successful, artistically and commercially. They last in people’s hearts, every one of those films,” said Damaschke about the label, which counts a filmmaker-driven original feature animated canon from such directors as Brad Bird, Tim Burton, George Miller, Robert Zemeckis, and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.
Previously known as Wag, aka Warner Animation Group, the Burbank, CA lot’s feature toon unit will now be known as Warner Bros Pictures Animation.
“It’s honoring the past and rich history of the company. Warner Bros Pictures Animation released movies like Iron Giant, Space Jam, Corpse Bride, Polar Express, Happy Feet and The Lego Movie — benchmark films that broke new ground, new technology, new ways of telling stories and were successful, artistically and commercially. They last in people’s hearts, every one of those films,” said Damaschke about the label, which counts a filmmaker-driven original feature animated canon from such directors as Brad Bird, Tim Burton, George Miller, Robert Zemeckis, and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.
- 6/9/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Discovery not only turned a corner to post a quarterly streaming profit on Friday, but its CEO David Zaslav told analysts during an earnings conference call that he is also excited about the improving outlook for the Hollywood giant’s venerable studio.
Discussing Warner Bros., Zaslav touted its 100th anniversary this year and emphasized that “this studio has historically been the crown jewel of the industry, and we are working hard to rebuild it to its former glory.” He touted “meaningful creative momentum, with more and more of the most talented storytellers in the business choosing to partner with us.”
“After a very challenging year at the box office,” Zaslav touted such upcoming movie releases as Dune: Part Two, Barbie, Blue Beetle and The Flash. And he said that “we are committed not just to expanding the size of our film slate next year, but even more importantly,...
Discussing Warner Bros., Zaslav touted its 100th anniversary this year and emphasized that “this studio has historically been the crown jewel of the industry, and we are working hard to rebuild it to its former glory.” He touted “meaningful creative momentum, with more and more of the most talented storytellers in the business choosing to partner with us.”
“After a very challenging year at the box office,” Zaslav touted such upcoming movie releases as Dune: Part Two, Barbie, Blue Beetle and The Flash. And he said that “we are committed not just to expanding the size of our film slate next year, but even more importantly,...
- 5/5/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: A new musical based on the award-winning 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles and the life of beauty queen, socialite and TV personality Jacqueline “Jackie” Siegel is in development, with Kristin Chenoweth attached to star and produce.
The project would reunite Chenoweth with her Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, who is on board to write the music. An industry reading is set for March 24 in New York City, in preparation for an out of town engagement with additional details to be announced.
Stephen Schwartz (Photo: Nathan Johnson)
Lauren Greenfield’s The Queen of Versailles 2012 documentary depicted the often bizarre lives of Jackie Siegel and David Siegel, owners of Westgate Resorts, as they struggled to build the largest private home in America in Orlando, Florida — a $100 million house inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Their plans – and their lives – were derailed by the Great Recession of 2008.
The stage musical will reunite Schwartz with Broadway superstar Chenoweth (who will play Jackie Siegel), and feature a book by Lindsey Ferrentino and direction by Tony nominee Michael Arden. The project is described as “a new musical exploring the true cost of fame, fortune, and family.”
The Queen of Versailles is produced by Bill Damaschke. Chenoweth will also act as producer through her production banner Diva Worldwide Entertainment.
The project would reunite Chenoweth with her Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, who is on board to write the music. An industry reading is set for March 24 in New York City, in preparation for an out of town engagement with additional details to be announced.
Stephen Schwartz (Photo: Nathan Johnson)
Lauren Greenfield’s The Queen of Versailles 2012 documentary depicted the often bizarre lives of Jackie Siegel and David Siegel, owners of Westgate Resorts, as they struggled to build the largest private home in America in Orlando, Florida — a $100 million house inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Their plans – and their lives – were derailed by the Great Recession of 2008.
The stage musical will reunite Schwartz with Broadway superstar Chenoweth (who will play Jackie Siegel), and feature a book by Lindsey Ferrentino and direction by Tony nominee Michael Arden. The project is described as “a new musical exploring the true cost of fame, fortune, and family.”
The Queen of Versailles is produced by Bill Damaschke. Chenoweth will also act as producer through her production banner Diva Worldwide Entertainment.
- 2/24/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Animation Group, the Warner Bros. animation unit responsible for feature-length animation, is getting some new leadership. Bill Damaschke, an animation veteran who started his career as a production assistant on Disney’s “Pocahontas” and eventually became COO of DreamWorks Animation, is in final negotiations to become head of Warner Animation Group, TheWrap has confirmed.
Executive VP Allison Abbate was the last person to lead the unit; she departed in summer 2022 after the merger with Discovery. The fallout of the new leadership included the cancellation of the mostly finished “Scoob: Haunted Holiday,” a follow-up to the 2020 animated feature “Scoob,” as a cost-cutting measure (done at the same time as the shelving of “Batgirl”).
At Warner Bros. Discovery, Damaschke will report to Warner Bros Film Group co-chairpersons and CEOs Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy. It hasn’t been announced what Damaschke’s title will be.
Also Read:
Disney Sets Sequels for ‘Frozen,...
Executive VP Allison Abbate was the last person to lead the unit; she departed in summer 2022 after the merger with Discovery. The fallout of the new leadership included the cancellation of the mostly finished “Scoob: Haunted Holiday,” a follow-up to the 2020 animated feature “Scoob,” as a cost-cutting measure (done at the same time as the shelving of “Batgirl”).
At Warner Bros. Discovery, Damaschke will report to Warner Bros Film Group co-chairpersons and CEOs Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy. It hasn’t been announced what Damaschke’s title will be.
Also Read:
Disney Sets Sequels for ‘Frozen,...
- 2/10/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
A new era for Warner Bros. animation is about to begin.
Veteran animation executive Bill Damaschke, who rose to lead DreamWorks Animation before its sale to NBCUniversal, is in final talks to take over as head of Warner Animation Group, the beleaguered animation arm of Warner Bros. Pictures..
The company has been leaderless since the exit of executive vp Allison Abbate, who departed in the summer of 2022 amid the Warners takeover by Discovery and the shake-up that followed. That included the shelving of Scoob!: Holiday Haunt, a completed feature that was co-written and produced by Abbate’s husband, Tony Cervone.
The executive is expected to report to Warners film bosses Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy. It is unclear what title he will hold.
Damaschke spent 20 years at DreamWorks Animation, joining it from startup level in 1995 and rising to COO. He oversaw productions such as Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon...
Veteran animation executive Bill Damaschke, who rose to lead DreamWorks Animation before its sale to NBCUniversal, is in final talks to take over as head of Warner Animation Group, the beleaguered animation arm of Warner Bros. Pictures..
The company has been leaderless since the exit of executive vp Allison Abbate, who departed in the summer of 2022 amid the Warners takeover by Discovery and the shake-up that followed. That included the shelving of Scoob!: Holiday Haunt, a completed feature that was co-written and produced by Abbate’s husband, Tony Cervone.
The executive is expected to report to Warners film bosses Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy. It is unclear what title he will hold.
Damaschke spent 20 years at DreamWorks Animation, joining it from startup level in 1995 and rising to COO. He oversaw productions such as Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon...
- 2/9/2023
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: We’ve been hearing for some time that former Skydance President of Animation and DreamWorks Animation Chief Creative Officer Bill Damaschke is in talks for the top Warner Bros Animation feature position. It’s not a done deal yet, and last we heard both sides were far apart. But it sounds like talks have heated up.
Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav was looking to fill this post, just like he did for DC Studios with James Gunn and Peter Safran. The animation position will report directly to Warner Bros Motion Picture co-chairs Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy.
Damaschke had a two-decade run at Dwa and oversaw such franchise features as as Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and The Croods. He also oversaw all of its live theatrical productions, including the award-winning Shrek the Musical. In addition, he continued to produce theater projects through his production company StoryKey Entertainment.
Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav was looking to fill this post, just like he did for DC Studios with James Gunn and Peter Safran. The animation position will report directly to Warner Bros Motion Picture co-chairs Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy.
Damaschke had a two-decade run at Dwa and oversaw such franchise features as as Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and The Croods. He also oversaw all of its live theatrical productions, including the award-winning Shrek the Musical. In addition, he continued to produce theater projects through his production company StoryKey Entertainment.
- 2/9/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Aside from taking a bow (or three) and receiving applause, actors don’t typically address the audience following a stage performance.
But last night’s production of the one-woman show The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe at L.A.’s Mark Taper Forum was not an average night at the theater for Cecily Strong, which is why she took 30 seconds at the end of a very enthusiastic standing ovation to make an announcement.
“I want to acknowledge one very special person who’s here tonight — our original Trudy, our hero, the incredible Lily Tomlin,” she said, her voice quivering with emotion as she shouted out the comedy legend, a reveal that was greeted by shock and awe from the sold-out crowd on opening night. The room responded by intensifying an already electric round of applause as guests scanned the seats to locate Tomlin.
Aside from taking a bow (or three) and receiving applause, actors don’t typically address the audience following a stage performance.
But last night’s production of the one-woman show The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe at L.A.’s Mark Taper Forum was not an average night at the theater for Cecily Strong, which is why she took 30 seconds at the end of a very enthusiastic standing ovation to make an announcement.
“I want to acknowledge one very special person who’s here tonight — our original Trudy, our hero, the incredible Lily Tomlin,” she said, her voice quivering with emotion as she shouted out the comedy legend, a reveal that was greeted by shock and awe from the sold-out crowd on opening night. The room responded by intensifying an already electric round of applause as guests scanned the seats to locate Tomlin.
- 9/30/2022
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Cecily Strong will soon be hitting the stage in Los Angeles.
The Emmy-nominated Saturday Night Live star will perform in Jane Wagner’s one-woman show The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe at the Mark Taper Forum. Directed by Leigh Silverman, the show begins previews Sept. 21 with an official opening set for Sept. 28, running through Oct. 23. Produced in association with SNL honcho Lorne Michaels and veteran stage producer Bill Damaschke, the show will be presented in association with The Shed.
The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe follows the “seemingly disparate lives of a punk-rock rebel, a socialite, a feminist and a deceptively insightful observer, among many others.” It earned Lily Tomlin a Tony Award for best actress in a play in 1986, and Strong knows the material well as the new production was originally produced by The Shed...
Cecily Strong will soon be hitting the stage in Los Angeles.
The Emmy-nominated Saturday Night Live star will perform in Jane Wagner’s one-woman show The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe at the Mark Taper Forum. Directed by Leigh Silverman, the show begins previews Sept. 21 with an official opening set for Sept. 28, running through Oct. 23. Produced in association with SNL honcho Lorne Michaels and veteran stage producer Bill Damaschke, the show will be presented in association with The Shed.
The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe follows the “seemingly disparate lives of a punk-rock rebel, a socialite, a feminist and a deceptively insightful observer, among many others.” It earned Lily Tomlin a Tony Award for best actress in a play in 1986, and Strong knows the material well as the new production was originally produced by The Shed...
- 9/2/2022
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
In early 2020 while preparing to direct Luck, Skydance Animation’s first feature film, Peggy Holmes met with some unlikely consultants on the story. The lead character in Luck, an unlucky yet indomitable young woman named Sam, has grown up in foster care, and so Holmes interviewed kids with similar experiences in Ventura County, California, to better understand their perspective and help find the emotional core of Sam’s story. “We met with these young people and they shared their stories with us, and we were so incredibly moved by their positivity, their generosity, their never-give-up kind of attitude,” Holmes says. “These are people who have had some real bad luck in their lives. We wanted to honor that bravery.”
It’s the kind of creativity-sparking, empathy-building research that became common in the field of animation after it gained currency at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios...
In early 2020 while preparing to direct Luck, Skydance Animation’s first feature film, Peggy Holmes met with some unlikely consultants on the story. The lead character in Luck, an unlucky yet indomitable young woman named Sam, has grown up in foster care, and so Holmes interviewed kids with similar experiences in Ventura County, California, to better understand their perspective and help find the emotional core of Sam’s story. “We met with these young people and they shared their stories with us, and we were so incredibly moved by their positivity, their generosity, their never-give-up kind of attitude,” Holmes says. “These are people who have had some real bad luck in their lives. We wanted to honor that bravery.”
It’s the kind of creativity-sparking, empathy-building research that became common in the field of animation after it gained currency at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios...
- 7/27/2022
- by Rebecca Keegan and Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This year sees the release of "Luck," the debut film from Skydance Animation in collaboration with Apple TV+ that has had a less-than-lucky production history. In 2019, Skydance was quick to hire alleged sexual harasser and disgraced former head of Pixar, John Lasseter, to run the studio — replacing "Kung Fu Panda" producer Bill Damaschke. Shortly after, Emma Thompson resigned from doing a voice in "Luck" after refusing to work with Lasseter, and then in 2020 director Alessandro Carloni ("Kung Fu Panda 3") and screenwriters Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger were all quietly replaced with Peggy Holmes and Kiel Murray, a director and...
The post Luck Footage Reaction: Skydance Animation's First Movie Borrows From the Pixar Playbook [Annecy 2022] appeared first on /Film.
The post Luck Footage Reaction: Skydance Animation's First Movie Borrows From the Pixar Playbook [Annecy 2022] appeared first on /Film.
- 6/14/2022
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Moulin Rouge! The Musical producers Bill Damaschke and Carmen Pavlovic reflected during tonight’s Tony Awards on how differently the show plays in 2021 than it did before the onset of Covid-19.
The show, which took home 10 Tonys tonight, including Best Musical, just resumed performances last Friday. The return added even more of a jolt to an already highly emotional evening.
Escapism and razzle-dazzle are still keys to the show’s appeal, Damaschke said in a backstage press interview, “but now the heart and the story is even more resonant.” He mused on the arc of the musical and how it tracks the agonizing year and a half endured by Broadway, New York and the world.
“The show is about a group of people who make theater and who are fighting for their home and coming together against extreme odds to do so,” he said. “We had that in our own...
The show, which took home 10 Tonys tonight, including Best Musical, just resumed performances last Friday. The return added even more of a jolt to an already highly emotional evening.
Escapism and razzle-dazzle are still keys to the show’s appeal, Damaschke said in a backstage press interview, “but now the heart and the story is even more resonant.” He mused on the arc of the musical and how it tracks the agonizing year and a half endured by Broadway, New York and the world.
“The show is about a group of people who make theater and who are fighting for their home and coming together against extreme odds to do so,” he said. “We had that in our own...
- 9/27/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Natalie Mendoza, a star of the BBC One drama series Hotel Babylon and The Descent horror film franchise, has been cast in the lead role of Broadway’s Moulin Rouge! The Musical, filling the vacancy left when the Tony-nominated Karen Olivo resigned in April over what she perceived as industry silence regarding the workplace harassment and abuse claims levied against theater producer Scott Rudin.
(Rudin had no involvement in Moulin Rouge!)
With the casting of Mendoza, announced today by producers Carmen Pavlovic and Bill Damaschke, the full Moulin Rouge! cast is in place for the resumption of performances on Friday, September 24, at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. The musical originally opened on July 25, 2019, but performances were suspended in March 2020 when Broadway went dark due to the Covid pandemic shutdown.
Mendoza joins a principal cast that also includes Aaron Tveit, Danny Burstein, Sahr Ngaujah, Tam Mutu, Ricky Rojas and Robyn Hurder.
The...
(Rudin had no involvement in Moulin Rouge!)
With the casting of Mendoza, announced today by producers Carmen Pavlovic and Bill Damaschke, the full Moulin Rouge! cast is in place for the resumption of performances on Friday, September 24, at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. The musical originally opened on July 25, 2019, but performances were suspended in March 2020 when Broadway went dark due to the Covid pandemic shutdown.
Mendoza joins a principal cast that also includes Aaron Tveit, Danny Burstein, Sahr Ngaujah, Tam Mutu, Ricky Rojas and Robyn Hurder.
The...
- 8/2/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Multiple Tony nominee Moulin Rouge! The Musical will resume Broadway performances on Friday, September 24 at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, producers announced today, but the successor to former (and Tony-nominated) lead actress Karen Olivo, who left the role in protest of Broadway’s silence over Scott Rudin, was not revealed.
Back on stage will be Aaron Tveit, Danny Burstein, Sahr Ngaujah, Robyn Hurder, Tam Mutu and Ricky Rojas. Ashley Loren has been cast at the alternate Satine (a position she held at the time of the shutdown). Additional casting, including the role of Satine, will be confirmed at a later date.
Produces also announced that Moulin Rouge! will honor New York’s Frontline Workers at a special dress rehearsal on September 23.
“Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a story about artists fighting to keep...
Back on stage will be Aaron Tveit, Danny Burstein, Sahr Ngaujah, Robyn Hurder, Tam Mutu and Ricky Rojas. Ashley Loren has been cast at the alternate Satine (a position she held at the time of the shutdown). Additional casting, including the role of Satine, will be confirmed at a later date.
Produces also announced that Moulin Rouge! will honor New York’s Frontline Workers at a special dress rehearsal on September 23.
“Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a story about artists fighting to keep...
- 5/13/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Update, with Moulin Rouge producers’ statement Karen Olivo, the Tony-nominated star of Broadway hit musical Moulin Rouge!, will not return to the production when the industry re-opens in protest of what she says is the industry silence over the workplace harassment and abuse claims levied against film and theater producer Scott Rudin.
“Social justice is more important than being the sparkling diamond,” referencing one of their big Moulin Rouge! numbers in a scathing Instagram video today. “Building a better industry for my students is more important than me putting money in my pockets. Building a better industry – I’m yelling now – building a better industry is more important than putting money in my pockets.
Moulin Rouge! producers Carmen Pavlovic and Bill Damaschke released a statement to Deadline confirming Olivo’s departure and expressing support for the actress. (Rudin is not a producer of Moulin Rouge!).
“We can confirm that Karen...
“Social justice is more important than being the sparkling diamond,” referencing one of their big Moulin Rouge! numbers in a scathing Instagram video today. “Building a better industry for my students is more important than me putting money in my pockets. Building a better industry – I’m yelling now – building a better industry is more important than putting money in my pockets.
Moulin Rouge! producers Carmen Pavlovic and Bill Damaschke released a statement to Deadline confirming Olivo’s departure and expressing support for the actress. (Rudin is not a producer of Moulin Rouge!).
“We can confirm that Karen...
- 4/14/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Variety's Awards Circuit is home to the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars from Film Awards Editor Clayton Davis. Following Academy Awards history, buzz, news, reviews and sources, the Oscar predictions are updated regularly with the current year's contenders in all categories. Variety's Awards Circuit Prediction schedule consists of four phases, running all year long: Draft, Pre-Season, Regular Season and Post Season. Eligibility calendar and dates of awards will determine how long each phase lasts and will be displayed next to revision date.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Golden Globe Predictions:
Best Motion Picture (Comedy Or Musical)
Updated: Feb. 24, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The Golden Globes nominations were announced on Feb. 3, with Netflix’s “Mank” from David Fincher leading with six nods. As the ceremony approaches on Feb. 28, the categories have been analyzed...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Collective
Draft>>>Pre Season>>>Regular Season>>>Post Season
2021 Golden Globe Predictions:
Best Motion Picture (Comedy Or Musical)
Updated: Feb. 24, 2021
Awards Prediction Commentary: The Golden Globes nominations were announced on Feb. 3, with Netflix’s “Mank” from David Fincher leading with six nods. As the ceremony approaches on Feb. 28, the categories have been analyzed...
- 2/24/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Moulin Rouge! The Musical will kick off its North American tour in February 2022, two years after the originally scheduled opening date that was knocked out by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Producers are now targeting Feb. 26, 2022, for the start of performances at Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre. Opening night will be March 11, 2022, and the Chicago engagement will run through April 24, 2022.
Before the pandemic, the touring production was to have started on Nov. 21, 2020, in New Orleans. The remaining original engagement dates are being rescheduled and will be announced later along with casting and venue on-sale dates.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is nominated for 14 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Earlier this year, the production won the 2020 Drama League Award for Outstanding Production of a Musical and received ten Outer Critics Circle Award Honors including New Broadway Musical. The musical, based on Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film, is directed by Alex Timbers with a book by John Logan.
Producers are now targeting Feb. 26, 2022, for the start of performances at Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre. Opening night will be March 11, 2022, and the Chicago engagement will run through April 24, 2022.
Before the pandemic, the touring production was to have started on Nov. 21, 2020, in New Orleans. The remaining original engagement dates are being rescheduled and will be announced later along with casting and venue on-sale dates.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is nominated for 14 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Earlier this year, the production won the 2020 Drama League Award for Outstanding Production of a Musical and received ten Outer Critics Circle Award Honors including New Broadway Musical. The musical, based on Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film, is directed by Alex Timbers with a book by John Logan.
- 12/16/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s time to go to prom.
On Thanksgiving, Netflix debuted the first trailer for Ryan Murphy’s movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “The Prom,” set for release on Dec. 11.
The 2018 Broadway musical is based on an original concept from Jack Viertel with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin. The performance follows four Broadway actors who travel to a conservative Indiana town to help a lesbian teenager who is banned from bringing her girlfriend to her high school prom. The show was nominated for six Tony Awards, including best musical, original score and lead actor and lead actress in a musical.
“There is so much passion and warmth in the movie,” Murphy told Variety in an interview. “I think the reason everyone said ‘Yes’ so quickly was because of the message. The passionate idea at the core of the movie is ‘Everyone should be able to...
On Thanksgiving, Netflix debuted the first trailer for Ryan Murphy’s movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “The Prom,” set for release on Dec. 11.
The 2018 Broadway musical is based on an original concept from Jack Viertel with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin. The performance follows four Broadway actors who travel to a conservative Indiana town to help a lesbian teenager who is banned from bringing her girlfriend to her high school prom. The show was nominated for six Tony Awards, including best musical, original score and lead actor and lead actress in a musical.
“There is so much passion and warmth in the movie,” Murphy told Variety in an interview. “I think the reason everyone said ‘Yes’ so quickly was because of the message. The passionate idea at the core of the movie is ‘Everyone should be able to...
- 11/26/2020
- by Janet W. Lee
- Variety Film + TV
The latest trailer for director Ryan Murphy’s “The Prom,” the star-stuffed movie musical adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, has landed from Netflix. Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, Kerry Washington, James Corden, Andrew Rannells, Keegan-Michael Key, and many more headline this splashy song-and-dance movie, which arrives on the streaming platform and in select theaters on December 11. Watch the new trailer below.
One of the year’s buzziest late-breaking awards season contenders, and already anticipated for its infectious soundtrack, “The Prom” is the film adaptation of Chad Beguelin, Bob Martin and Matthew Sklar’s award-winning, Tony-nominated Broadway musical. Here’s the synopsis courtesy of Netflix:
Dee Dee Allen (three-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep) and Barry Glickman (Tony Award winnerJames Corden) are New York City stage stars with a crisis on their hands: their expensive new Broadway show is a major flop that has suddenly flatlined their careers.
Meanwhile, in small-town Indiana,...
One of the year’s buzziest late-breaking awards season contenders, and already anticipated for its infectious soundtrack, “The Prom” is the film adaptation of Chad Beguelin, Bob Martin and Matthew Sklar’s award-winning, Tony-nominated Broadway musical. Here’s the synopsis courtesy of Netflix:
Dee Dee Allen (three-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep) and Barry Glickman (Tony Award winnerJames Corden) are New York City stage stars with a crisis on their hands: their expensive new Broadway show is a major flop that has suddenly flatlined their careers.
Meanwhile, in small-town Indiana,...
- 11/26/2020
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
The hit Broadway musical The Prom is coming to Netflix, courtesy of Ryan Murphy.
In this adaptation, coming to the streaming platform on December 11th, Meryl Streep and James Corden star as Dee Dee Allen and Barry Glickman, two New York City stage stars whose big, expensive Broadway show was a major flop. With their careers taking a turn for the worse, they learn the story of Emma Nolan (Jo Ellen Pellman), a high school student in a conservative town in Indiana who, despite the support of her school principal...
In this adaptation, coming to the streaming platform on December 11th, Meryl Streep and James Corden star as Dee Dee Allen and Barry Glickman, two New York City stage stars whose big, expensive Broadway show was a major flop. With their careers taking a turn for the worse, they learn the story of Emma Nolan (Jo Ellen Pellman), a high school student in a conservative town in Indiana who, despite the support of her school principal...
- 10/22/2020
- by Claire Shaffer
- Rollingstone.com
Netflix just dropped the trailer for its ensemble musical “The Prom.”
Based on the Broadway production of the same name, “The Prom” follows an Indiana teenager who wants to bring her girlfriend to her school’s prom. After they are banned from attending, a group comes together to fight the injustice.
Meryl Streep, James Corden, Nicole Kidman, Keegan-Michael Key, Andrew Rannells, Jo Ellen Pellman, Ariana Debose, Tracey Ullman, Kevin Chamberlin, Mary Kay Place, Nico Greetham, Logan Riley, Nathaniel J. Potvin, Sofia Deler and Kerry Washington star.
Ryan Murphy will direct and produce. Other producers include Alexis Woodall and the Broadway musical’s producers, Bill Damaschke and Dori Berinstein. More of the stage show’s creative team is coming over to help on the TV movie adaptation, with Bob Martin and Chad Beguelin writing the script and Beguelin and Matthew Sklar handling music and lyrics, which are based on an original concept by Jack Viertel.
Based on the Broadway production of the same name, “The Prom” follows an Indiana teenager who wants to bring her girlfriend to her school’s prom. After they are banned from attending, a group comes together to fight the injustice.
Meryl Streep, James Corden, Nicole Kidman, Keegan-Michael Key, Andrew Rannells, Jo Ellen Pellman, Ariana Debose, Tracey Ullman, Kevin Chamberlin, Mary Kay Place, Nico Greetham, Logan Riley, Nathaniel J. Potvin, Sofia Deler and Kerry Washington star.
Ryan Murphy will direct and produce. Other producers include Alexis Woodall and the Broadway musical’s producers, Bill Damaschke and Dori Berinstein. More of the stage show’s creative team is coming over to help on the TV movie adaptation, with Bob Martin and Chad Beguelin writing the script and Beguelin and Matthew Sklar handling music and lyrics, which are based on an original concept by Jack Viertel.
- 10/22/2020
- by Beatrice Verhoeven and Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Netflix has released the first official trailer for Ryan Murphy’s musical “The Prom.” Showcasing an all-star cast that includes Academy Award winners Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman, along with Emmy winner James Corden, Andrew Rannells, Ariana DeBose and newcomer Jo Ellen Pellman, the film looks to bring lots of energy to the holiday season.
“I hope it provides a way back to some normalcy,” Murphy tells Variety. “This is the prom we all get to have this year. It celebrates movies and celebrates Broadway, and it comes at the end of a very hard year. I’m just incredibly thankful.”
In her feature film debut, Jo Ellen Pellman sees her role as “a once in a lifetime experience,” as she shares the screen with so many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Ariana DeBose says it’s been a “wild year and is not something she’s taking lightly.” Playing...
“I hope it provides a way back to some normalcy,” Murphy tells Variety. “This is the prom we all get to have this year. It celebrates movies and celebrates Broadway, and it comes at the end of a very hard year. I’m just incredibly thankful.”
In her feature film debut, Jo Ellen Pellman sees her role as “a once in a lifetime experience,” as she shares the screen with so many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Ariana DeBose says it’s been a “wild year and is not something she’s taking lightly.” Playing...
- 10/22/2020
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.