Before SpongeBob SquarePants and The Fairly OddParents, there was Rugrats.
Alongside fellow “Nicktoons” Doug and The Ren & Stimpy Show, Rugrats premiered Aug. 11, 1991 on Nickelodeon and helped establish an animated storytelling dynasty on the cable network. Created by Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain, the show was by far the most successful of Nickelodeon’s early offerings and helped set the stage for the Patrick Stars and Timmy Turners to come.
The cartoon followed the daily lives of toddlers Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, and twins Phil and Lil DeVille as they attempted to make sense of the adult world while also indulging in their imaginations for some larger-than-life adventures. Though the children’s parents also featured as secondary characters, Tommy and friends could only communicate with one another in their own unique baby language.
For an audience of a certain age (a.k.a. the geezer writing this), Rugrats...
Alongside fellow “Nicktoons” Doug and The Ren & Stimpy Show, Rugrats premiered Aug. 11, 1991 on Nickelodeon and helped establish an animated storytelling dynasty on the cable network. Created by Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain, the show was by far the most successful of Nickelodeon’s early offerings and helped set the stage for the Patrick Stars and Timmy Turners to come.
The cartoon followed the daily lives of toddlers Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, and twins Phil and Lil DeVille as they attempted to make sense of the adult world while also indulging in their imaginations for some larger-than-life adventures. Though the children’s parents also featured as secondary characters, Tommy and friends could only communicate with one another in their own unique baby language.
For an audience of a certain age (a.k.a. the geezer writing this), Rugrats...
- 8/24/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Frequent collaborators and co-directors Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi’s upcoming documentary, “Personality Crisis: One Night Only,” will premiere April 14 at 8 p.m. on Showtime.
“Personality Crisis: One Night Only” has also released a trailer providing audiences a peek into the lives of Johansen, the one-time New York Dolls lead singer who later performed as Buster Poindexter. Focusing on Johansen, his legacy and his special January 2020 performance, the film documents the punk legend as he “regales the audience with stories and music illuminating the art and cultural evolution of New York City,” according to the film’s logline.
Scorsese explained what drew him to this project: “I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making ‘Mean Streets’… Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City. I often see him perform,...
“Personality Crisis: One Night Only” has also released a trailer providing audiences a peek into the lives of Johansen, the one-time New York Dolls lead singer who later performed as Buster Poindexter. Focusing on Johansen, his legacy and his special January 2020 performance, the film documents the punk legend as he “regales the audience with stories and music illuminating the art and cultural evolution of New York City,” according to the film’s logline.
Scorsese explained what drew him to this project: “I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making ‘Mean Streets’… Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City. I often see him perform,...
- 3/16/2023
- by Katie Reul and Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
The revival of “Rugrats” has been renewed for Season 2 at Paramount Plus.
The second season will consist of 13 episodes. News of the renewal comes as eight new episodes of Season 1 are scheduled to drop on the streamer on Oct. 7. The new episodes also includes a half-hour Halloween special where Tommy needs his friends’ help to save Angelica after she turns into a werewolf at a scary Halloween party as their parents seem to disappear one by one.
“Kids series are a key driver of engagement for Paramount Plus,” said Tanya Giles, chief programming officer for Paramount Plus. “With the renewal of ‘Rugrats’ for a second season, we look forward to bringing even more adventures with Tommy, Chuckie, Angelica and the rest of the Rugrats for kids and families to enjoy.”
The new series stars Eg Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael,...
The second season will consist of 13 episodes. News of the renewal comes as eight new episodes of Season 1 are scheduled to drop on the streamer on Oct. 7. The new episodes also includes a half-hour Halloween special where Tommy needs his friends’ help to save Angelica after she turns into a werewolf at a scary Halloween party as their parents seem to disappear one by one.
“Kids series are a key driver of engagement for Paramount Plus,” said Tanya Giles, chief programming officer for Paramount Plus. “With the renewal of ‘Rugrats’ for a second season, we look forward to bringing even more adventures with Tommy, Chuckie, Angelica and the rest of the Rugrats for kids and families to enjoy.”
The new series stars Eg Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael,...
- 9/21/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The Rugrats are back for more as Paramount+ renews the revival of the classic Nickelodeon series for Season 2.
The revival, which follows the titular tots and their imaginative shenanigans, features original cast members E.G. Daily, Nancy Cartwright, Cheryl Chase, Cree Summer and Kath Soucie as Tommy, Chuckie, Angelica, Susie, Phil and Lil, respectively. The voice cast also touts Nicole Byer, Tony Hale, Natalie Morales, Ashley Rae Spillers, Tommy Dewey, Anna Chlumsky, Timothy Simons, Michael McKean and Omar Miller.
Paramount+ also revealed the premiere date for the second batch of Season 1 episodes, including the upcoming Halloween special.
The second batch of episodes, which will drop on October 7, will continue to see the Rugrats using their wild imaginations to defeat an outer-space villain, travel through Chuckie’s dad’s body, embark upon a daring mission to break Angelica out of preschool and more. The half-hour Halloween-themed special sees Tommy work with...
The revival, which follows the titular tots and their imaginative shenanigans, features original cast members E.G. Daily, Nancy Cartwright, Cheryl Chase, Cree Summer and Kath Soucie as Tommy, Chuckie, Angelica, Susie, Phil and Lil, respectively. The voice cast also touts Nicole Byer, Tony Hale, Natalie Morales, Ashley Rae Spillers, Tommy Dewey, Anna Chlumsky, Timothy Simons, Michael McKean and Omar Miller.
Paramount+ also revealed the premiere date for the second batch of Season 1 episodes, including the upcoming Halloween special.
The second batch of episodes, which will drop on October 7, will continue to see the Rugrats using their wild imaginations to defeat an outer-space villain, travel through Chuckie’s dad’s body, embark upon a daring mission to break Angelica out of preschool and more. The half-hour Halloween-themed special sees Tommy work with...
- 9/21/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount+’s revival of “Rugrats” is getting a second season.
New episodes for the current first season will return on Oct. 7, which will include a Halloween special.
Based on the 1991 Nickelodeon series, the “Rugrats” revival follows a group of toddlers as they “explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point of view.” The new series saw the original voice cast for the babies return: E.G. Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
Joining them were Ashley Spillers and Tommy Dewey as Tommy’s parents; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents; and Michael McKean as Grandpa Lou Pickles.
The series was created by Arlene Klasky,...
New episodes for the current first season will return on Oct. 7, which will include a Halloween special.
Based on the 1991 Nickelodeon series, the “Rugrats” revival follows a group of toddlers as they “explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point of view.” The new series saw the original voice cast for the babies return: E.G. Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
Joining them were Ashley Spillers and Tommy Dewey as Tommy’s parents; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents; and Michael McKean as Grandpa Lou Pickles.
The series was created by Arlene Klasky,...
- 9/21/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
"Rugrats" is the new CG-animated TV series created by Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain, as a reboot of the original 1991 Nickelodeon cartoon TV series. now streaming on Paramount+:
"...'Rugrats' focuses on the experiences of a courageous, adventurous baby named 'Tommy Pickles' and his group of playmates..."
Voice cast includes Kath Soucie, Nancy Cartwright, Cheryl Chase, Cree Summer, Tommy Dewey, Ashley Rae Spillers, Anna Chlumsky, Timothy Simons, Natalie Morales, Tony Hale, Michael McKean and Nicole Byer.
Click the images to enlarge... ...
"...'Rugrats' focuses on the experiences of a courageous, adventurous baby named 'Tommy Pickles' and his group of playmates..."
Voice cast includes Kath Soucie, Nancy Cartwright, Cheryl Chase, Cree Summer, Tommy Dewey, Ashley Rae Spillers, Anna Chlumsky, Timothy Simons, Natalie Morales, Tony Hale, Michael McKean and Nicole Byer.
Click the images to enlarge... ...
- 6/18/2021
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Actress Natalie Morales said her voice character Betty in the rebooted Paramount+ Rugrats series will be an openly gay woman.
Morales made the revelation in a statement to the A.V. Club. The character is mother to two children, Phil and Lil, and has been married to Howard in prior versions.
Morales said in her statement that she thinks “Anyone who watched the original show may have had an inkling Betty was a member of the alphabet mafia.”
She added, “Betty is a single mom with her own business who has twins and still has time to hang out with her friends and her community, and I think it’s just so great because examples of living your life happily and healthily as an out queer person is just such a beacon for young queer people who may not have examples of that.”
Morales said that “cartoons were hugely influential for me as a kid,...
Morales made the revelation in a statement to the A.V. Club. The character is mother to two children, Phil and Lil, and has been married to Howard in prior versions.
Morales said in her statement that she thinks “Anyone who watched the original show may have had an inkling Betty was a member of the alphabet mafia.”
She added, “Betty is a single mom with her own business who has twins and still has time to hang out with her friends and her community, and I think it’s just so great because examples of living your life happily and healthily as an out queer person is just such a beacon for young queer people who may not have examples of that.”
Morales said that “cartoons were hugely influential for me as a kid,...
- 5/28/2021
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
When “Rugrats” went off the air after a decade in 2006, it did so with a handful of Daytime Emmy wins for animated program, a half-a-dozen Kids Choice Awards and its very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It also happened to be the second-longest running animated series on Nickelodeon (“SpongeBob SquarePants” being the longest), it spawned three movies, and the franchise’s licensing and merchandising potential seemed endless.
In other words, reviving the comedic adventures of the animated tots was a no-brainer for Nick, which has already dusted off “SpongeBob” from the shelf and is emerging as one of the biggest subscription drivers to the newly launched Paramount Plus.
When Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil and Angelica return to screens, however, they’ll have a whole new look thanks to the CG-animation style. In reimagining “Rugrats” for new and grown-up audiences alike, executive producers Eryk Casemiro and Kate Boutilier...
In other words, reviving the comedic adventures of the animated tots was a no-brainer for Nick, which has already dusted off “SpongeBob” from the shelf and is emerging as one of the biggest subscription drivers to the newly launched Paramount Plus.
When Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil and Angelica return to screens, however, they’ll have a whole new look thanks to the CG-animation style. In reimagining “Rugrats” for new and grown-up audiences alike, executive producers Eryk Casemiro and Kate Boutilier...
- 5/27/2021
- by Amber Dowling
- Variety Film + TV
Paramount Plus released a trailer for “Rugrats,” an all-new reimagination of the ’90s cartoon debuting on May 27.
In the one-hour premiere episode, “Second Time Around,” Tommy leads the babies on an adventure to help Chuckie after his own courageous endeavor goes horribly wrong.
The series stars E.G. Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as both Phil and Lil DeVille, all of whom are reprising their iconic roles.
The series also features new voices, including Ashley Rae Spillers and Tommy Dewey, who voice Tommy’s parents, Didi and Stu Pickles, respectively; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father, Chas Finster; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother, Betty DeVille; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents, Charlotte and Drew Pickles, respectively; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents, Lucy and Randy Carmichael,...
In the one-hour premiere episode, “Second Time Around,” Tommy leads the babies on an adventure to help Chuckie after his own courageous endeavor goes horribly wrong.
The series stars E.G. Daily as Tommy Pickles, Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as both Phil and Lil DeVille, all of whom are reprising their iconic roles.
The series also features new voices, including Ashley Rae Spillers and Tommy Dewey, who voice Tommy’s parents, Didi and Stu Pickles, respectively; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father, Chas Finster; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother, Betty DeVille; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents, Charlotte and Drew Pickles, respectively; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents, Lucy and Randy Carmichael,...
- 5/5/2021
- by Haley Bosselman and Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
Nickelodeon is filling out the “Rugrats” voice cast for its grown-ups.
Joining the upcoming revival will be: Ashley Spillers and Tommy Dewey as Tommy’s parents; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents; and Michael McKean as Grandpa Lou Pickles.
The series will premiere this spring on Paramount+.
The CG-animated series returns the original voice cast for the children: E.G. Daily reprise her role as Tommy Pickles alongside Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
“This incredibly talented group of actors provides a fresh and very funny take on these iconic roles, combining humor with heart to bring the characters to life in a whole new way,” said Liz Paulson,...
Joining the upcoming revival will be: Ashley Spillers and Tommy Dewey as Tommy’s parents; Tony Hale as Chuckie’s father; Natalie Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons as Angelica’s parents; Nicole Byer and Omar Miller as Susie’s parents; and Michael McKean as Grandpa Lou Pickles.
The series will premiere this spring on Paramount+.
The CG-animated series returns the original voice cast for the children: E.G. Daily reprise her role as Tommy Pickles alongside Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
“This incredibly talented group of actors provides a fresh and very funny take on these iconic roles, combining humor with heart to bring the characters to life in a whole new way,” said Liz Paulson,...
- 3/18/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Nicole Byer, Tony Hale and Natalie Morales are among the voice talent tapped for the adult roles in Paramount+’s Rugrats series revival. Hale will play Chuckie’s father, Morales as Phil and Lil’s mother and Byer, with Omar Miller, as Susie’s parents.
Also joining the original cast members who voice the adventurous titular toddlers are Ashley Spillers (Vice Principals) and Tommy Dewey, as Tommy’s parents; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons, as Angelica’s parents; and Michael McKean, as Grandpa Lou Pickles. The reimagining is set to debut on Paramount+ this spring. The announcement was made in conjunction with Nickelodeon’s virtual upfront presentation.
Reprising their original Rugrats roles are E.G. Daily (Tommy), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie), Cheryl Chase (Angelica), Cree Summer (Susie) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil).
In an interview with Deadline, Nickelodeon President Brian Robbins addressed the decision to keep the original core original...
Also joining the original cast members who voice the adventurous titular toddlers are Ashley Spillers (Vice Principals) and Tommy Dewey, as Tommy’s parents; Anna Chlumsky and Timothy Simons, as Angelica’s parents; and Michael McKean, as Grandpa Lou Pickles. The reimagining is set to debut on Paramount+ this spring. The announcement was made in conjunction with Nickelodeon’s virtual upfront presentation.
Reprising their original Rugrats roles are E.G. Daily (Tommy), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie), Cheryl Chase (Angelica), Cree Summer (Susie) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil).
In an interview with Deadline, Nickelodeon President Brian Robbins addressed the decision to keep the original core original...
- 3/18/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Nickelodeon cartoons “Dora the Explorer” and “The Fairly OddParents” are getting live-action series on Paramount+.
“Dora” will target kids aged 6-11 and their families, Nick said. The original “Dora the Explorer” cartoon launched in 2000 and wrapped in 2019, the same year the live-action “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” was released theatrically. That film, which starred Isabela Merced in the titular role, made about $120 million worldwide on a budget of $49 million, according to Box Office Mojo.
“The Fairly OddParents,” meanwhile, is one of Nick’s longest-running and most successful animated series.
The announcement was among the deluge of news shared on Wednesday during ViacomCBS’ streaming investor day. Brian Robbins, the president of kids and family entertainment at ViacomCBS, had the honor of sharing this one.
In addition to these live-action shows, Nickelodeon properties “Rugrats” and “Avatar: The Last Airbender” are also getting new versions for Paramount+, which launches on March...
“Dora” will target kids aged 6-11 and their families, Nick said. The original “Dora the Explorer” cartoon launched in 2000 and wrapped in 2019, the same year the live-action “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” was released theatrically. That film, which starred Isabela Merced in the titular role, made about $120 million worldwide on a budget of $49 million, according to Box Office Mojo.
“The Fairly OddParents,” meanwhile, is one of Nick’s longest-running and most successful animated series.
The announcement was among the deluge of news shared on Wednesday during ViacomCBS’ streaming investor day. Brian Robbins, the president of kids and family entertainment at ViacomCBS, had the honor of sharing this one.
In addition to these live-action shows, Nickelodeon properties “Rugrats” and “Avatar: The Last Airbender” are also getting new versions for Paramount+, which launches on March...
- 2/24/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Prepare yourselves for the return of Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, Angelica Pickles, Susie Carmichael and Phil and Lil DeVille.
An all-new “Rugrats” CG-animated series is slated to premiere on streaming service Paramount Plus (née CBS All Access) in 2021, announced Nickelodeon at ViacomCBS’ investor day.
Set to reprise their roles are stars E.G. Daily (Tommy), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie), Cheryl Chase (Angelica), Cree Summer (Susie) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil). Nickelodeon Animation Studio is producing the revival, which promises to follow the toddlers as “they explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point-of-view.”
The original “Rugrats” series, which debuted in 1991 on Nickelodeon, ran for nine seasons across 13 years, earning four Daytime Emmys and six Kids’ Choice Awards.
“Rugrats is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand-new audience,...
An all-new “Rugrats” CG-animated series is slated to premiere on streaming service Paramount Plus (née CBS All Access) in 2021, announced Nickelodeon at ViacomCBS’ investor day.
Set to reprise their roles are stars E.G. Daily (Tommy), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie), Cheryl Chase (Angelica), Cree Summer (Susie) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil). Nickelodeon Animation Studio is producing the revival, which promises to follow the toddlers as “they explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point-of-view.”
The original “Rugrats” series, which debuted in 1991 on Nickelodeon, ran for nine seasons across 13 years, earning four Daytime Emmys and six Kids’ Choice Awards.
“Rugrats is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand-new audience,...
- 2/24/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
The Rugrats gang is coming back in more ways than one. Nickelodeon has revealed that the voice cast behind the original 1991 animated series will reprise their roles for the revival show at Paramount+.
Returning to voice the iconic cartoon toddlers are E.G. Daily (Tommy Pickles), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie Finster), Cheryl Chase (Angelica Pickles), Cree Summer (Susie Carmichael) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil DeVille). The CG-reimagining of the beloved series follows the toddlers as they explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point-of-view. You can watch a first-look clip above.
“Rugrats is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand-new audience,” said Ramsey Naito, President, Nickelodeon Animation. “Having the voice cast behind these special characters come together is one of the essential pieces...
Returning to voice the iconic cartoon toddlers are E.G. Daily (Tommy Pickles), Nancy Cartwright (Chuckie Finster), Cheryl Chase (Angelica Pickles), Cree Summer (Susie Carmichael) and Kath Soucie (Phil and Lil DeVille). The CG-reimagining of the beloved series follows the toddlers as they explore the world and beyond from their pint-sized and wildly imaginative point-of-view. You can watch a first-look clip above.
“Rugrats is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand-new audience,” said Ramsey Naito, President, Nickelodeon Animation. “Having the voice cast behind these special characters come together is one of the essential pieces...
- 2/24/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount+’s upcoming “Rugrats” revival will reunite the entire voice cast from the original run of the Nickelodeon series, the network announced Wednesday.
The CG-animated series will see E.G. Daily reprise her role as Tommy Pickles alongside Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
“‘Rugrats’ is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand new audience,” Ramsey Naito, president of Nickelodeon Animation, said. “Having the voice cast behind these special characters come together is one of the essential pieces to making the show recognizable and we can’t wait to watch this talented group bring them to life again.”
Based on the 1991 Nickelodeon series, the “Rugrats” revival follows a group of...
The CG-animated series will see E.G. Daily reprise her role as Tommy Pickles alongside Nancy Cartwright as Chuckie Finster, Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles, Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael and Kath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVille.
“‘Rugrats’ is one of the most iconic cartoons recognized by fans around the globe, and this original version is one we are taking great care and pride in creating for a brand new audience,” Ramsey Naito, president of Nickelodeon Animation, said. “Having the voice cast behind these special characters come together is one of the essential pieces to making the show recognizable and we can’t wait to watch this talented group bring them to life again.”
Based on the 1991 Nickelodeon series, the “Rugrats” revival follows a group of...
- 2/24/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Former CAA motion picture agent David Neumann has launched Newmation, a management company for film and TV animation creators.
Neumann’s initial clients include Oscar winner Hugh Welchman (Loving Vincent), Anita Doron (The Breadwinner) and Gary Trousdale (Beauty and The Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame). At CAA, Neumann represented Hollywood talent like David Yates (Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts), Welchman, Arlene Klasky and Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Newmation is launching as the global demand for animation content grows, Neumann insisted.
“It is an honor to work with these talented filmmakers and I can’t wait to share our unique projects with ...
Neumann’s initial clients include Oscar winner Hugh Welchman (Loving Vincent), Anita Doron (The Breadwinner) and Gary Trousdale (Beauty and The Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame). At CAA, Neumann represented Hollywood talent like David Yates (Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts), Welchman, Arlene Klasky and Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Newmation is launching as the global demand for animation content grows, Neumann insisted.
“It is an honor to work with these talented filmmakers and I can’t wait to share our unique projects with ...
- 11/19/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Former CAA motion picture agent David Neumann has launched Newmation, a management company for film and TV animation creators.
Neumann’s initial clients include Oscar winner Hugh Welchman (Loving Vincent), Anita Doron (The Breadwinner) and Gary Trousdale (Beauty and The Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame). At CAA, Neumann represented Hollywood talent like David Yates (Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts), Welchman, Arlene Klasky and Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Newmation is launching as the global demand for animation content grows, Neumann insisted.
“It is an honor to work with these talented filmmakers and I can’t wait to share our unique projects with ...
Neumann’s initial clients include Oscar winner Hugh Welchman (Loving Vincent), Anita Doron (The Breadwinner) and Gary Trousdale (Beauty and The Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame). At CAA, Neumann represented Hollywood talent like David Yates (Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts), Welchman, Arlene Klasky and Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Newmation is launching as the global demand for animation content grows, Neumann insisted.
“It is an honor to work with these talented filmmakers and I can’t wait to share our unique projects with ...
- 11/19/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Paramount has hired family film specialist David Bowers as the director of its upcoming live-action/CG “Rugrats” movie.
Bowers directed the second, third and fourth “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” movies. He also directed the animated movies “Astro Boy” and “Flushed Away.”
Producers are Brian Robbins, series creator Gabor Csupo and Karen Rosenfelt. “Rugrats” is being produced through the studio’s Paramount Players division. Paramount has set a Jan. 29, 2021 release date.
“Rugrats” is based on animated children’s television series created by Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain for Nickelodeon. The show, which first aired in 1991, ran for nine seasons with 176 episodes and focused on the comic adventures of a group of toddlers including Tommy, Chuckie, twins Phil and Lil, and Angelica. The studio released three animated “Rugrats” movies between 1998 and 2003.
The script for the movie was written by David A. Goodman, who had gained notice over the past...
Bowers directed the second, third and fourth “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” movies. He also directed the animated movies “Astro Boy” and “Flushed Away.”
Producers are Brian Robbins, series creator Gabor Csupo and Karen Rosenfelt. “Rugrats” is being produced through the studio’s Paramount Players division. Paramount has set a Jan. 29, 2021 release date.
“Rugrats” is based on animated children’s television series created by Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain for Nickelodeon. The show, which first aired in 1991, ran for nine seasons with 176 episodes and focused on the comic adventures of a group of toddlers including Tommy, Chuckie, twins Phil and Lil, and Angelica. The studio released three animated “Rugrats” movies between 1998 and 2003.
The script for the movie was written by David A. Goodman, who had gained notice over the past...
- 4/26/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid” director David Bowers has been tapped to direct Paramount Players’ live-action “Rugrats” movie, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The popular Nicktoon show ran from 1991 to 2004 and followed a group of toddlers — Tommy, Chuckie, Phil and Lil and Angelica — through their day-to-day lives as well as their big adventures.
Three other animated “Rugrats” movie were released between 1998 and 2003.
Also Read: 'Rugrats' Gets Nickelodeon Revival, Live-Action Film From Paramount Players
David Goodman wrote the script, and Gabor Csupo (who created the show alongside Arlene Klasky and Paul Germain) and President of Nickelodeon Brian Robbins are producing. Paramount Players will release the film on Jan. 29, 2021.
Bowers directed three of the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” films, as well as “Flushed Away” and “Astro Boy.” He also wrote the screenplay for “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul” and “Danny and the Dinosaur.
The popular Nicktoon show ran from 1991 to 2004 and followed a group of toddlers — Tommy, Chuckie, Phil and Lil and Angelica — through their day-to-day lives as well as their big adventures.
Three other animated “Rugrats” movie were released between 1998 and 2003.
Also Read: 'Rugrats' Gets Nickelodeon Revival, Live-Action Film From Paramount Players
David Goodman wrote the script, and Gabor Csupo (who created the show alongside Arlene Klasky and Paul Germain) and President of Nickelodeon Brian Robbins are producing. Paramount Players will release the film on Jan. 29, 2021.
Bowers directed three of the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” films, as well as “Flushed Away” and “Astro Boy.” He also wrote the screenplay for “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul” and “Danny and the Dinosaur.
- 4/26/2019
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
As Nickelodeon turns 40, Variety breaks down some of the network’s most important titles to date.
“All That”
“All That” launched careers in its 1994-2005 run, and is being resurrected with a new cast and many of the same producers this summer. “It just seemed like a quirky, different hang out for kids,” says original cast member Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”) who is coming back as an executive producer on the reboot.
“Blue’s Clues & You!”
“Blue’s Clues & You!,” premiering in November, reinvents the 1996-2007 hit for another generation. Series co-creator Angela Santomero looked at specific elements of the original when reviving the show, including music: “How can we make sure fans can sing along, but kids of today feel like it’s a show for them?”
“Dora the Explorer”
“Dora the Explorer” comes back as a live-action movie in August. “The reason to make that movie wasn...
“All That”
“All That” launched careers in its 1994-2005 run, and is being resurrected with a new cast and many of the same producers this summer. “It just seemed like a quirky, different hang out for kids,” says original cast member Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”) who is coming back as an executive producer on the reboot.
“Blue’s Clues & You!”
“Blue’s Clues & You!,” premiering in November, reinvents the 1996-2007 hit for another generation. Series co-creator Angela Santomero looked at specific elements of the original when reviving the show, including music: “How can we make sure fans can sing along, but kids of today feel like it’s a show for them?”
“Dora the Explorer”
“Dora the Explorer” comes back as a live-action movie in August. “The reason to make that movie wasn...
- 3/20/2019
- by Rob Owen
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Arlene Klasky has signed with CAA at a time when her beloved Rugrats franchise is being relaunched.
Nickelodeon is bringing the animated series back with a 26-episode order on which Klasky will serve as Ep. Concurrently, Paramount Players is developing a Rugrats live action/animated hybrid with Klasky as a producer.
Klasky won three-time Daytime Emmy Awards for Rugrats, which she co-created, and counts 12 Primetime Emmy noms overall for the animated series which she executive produced including As Told by Ginger and Duckman: Private Dick/Family Man. Rugrats ran for nine seasons and nearly 200 episodes from 1991 to 2004 and was spun off into a successful film trilogy which grossed close to $300M worldwide. The first Rugrats Movie was the first non-Disney animated film to gross $100 million domestically, while its soundtrack went platinum.
Klasky went on to co-create other hit shows for Nickelodeon such as Rocket Power, The Wild Thornberrys (she...
Nickelodeon is bringing the animated series back with a 26-episode order on which Klasky will serve as Ep. Concurrently, Paramount Players is developing a Rugrats live action/animated hybrid with Klasky as a producer.
Klasky won three-time Daytime Emmy Awards for Rugrats, which she co-created, and counts 12 Primetime Emmy noms overall for the animated series which she executive produced including As Told by Ginger and Duckman: Private Dick/Family Man. Rugrats ran for nine seasons and nearly 200 episodes from 1991 to 2004 and was spun off into a successful film trilogy which grossed close to $300M worldwide. The first Rugrats Movie was the first non-Disney animated film to gross $100 million domestically, while its soundtrack went platinum.
Klasky went on to co-create other hit shows for Nickelodeon such as Rocket Power, The Wild Thornberrys (she...
- 2/15/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Greenlit means a project is officially a go, so all you have to do is follow these leads to stay up to date. You never know where you’ll find an opportunity to land an audition! “Rugrats” With recent revivals of popular animated series like “Animaniacs!,” “Rocko’s Modern Life,” “Daria,” and more, millennials have no shortage of childhood favorites to revisit, and another big series can be added to that list. The hit Nickelodeon cartoon “Rugrats” will be the latest series to receive a relaunch. The network and Paramount Pictures have given a 26-episode order for an animated revival, as well as a live-action and CGI movie featuring the characters from the celebrated 90s cartoon. Original creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain will all return as executive producers. The movie is expected to be released in 2020, and the airdate for the series is expected to be released in the coming months.
- 7/23/2018
- backstage.com
If you grew up with the Rugrats in your life, I've got some cool news for you! Nickelodeon and Paramount Pictures are reviving the franchise. There's going to be a new animated series that has already received a 26-episode order and they are also developing a live-action feature film!
Deadline explains that both the TV series and the movie will include "new adventures with the famous characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, and will also introduce a new world of characters." it will follow their day-to-day lives that became adventures in their imaginations.
Original series creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain be coming back to executive producer the series and production on it is already underway.
As for the Rugrats movie, it will be written by David Goodman and it already has been given a release date of November 13th, 2020. it's going to be really interesting...
Deadline explains that both the TV series and the movie will include "new adventures with the famous characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, and will also introduce a new world of characters." it will follow their day-to-day lives that became adventures in their imaginations.
Original series creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain be coming back to executive producer the series and production on it is already underway.
As for the Rugrats movie, it will be written by David Goodman and it already has been given a release date of November 13th, 2020. it's going to be really interesting...
- 7/17/2018
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Tommie, Chuckie and his pals are coming back — on both TV and the big screen. Viacom’s Nickelodeon and Paramount Pictures have set a revival of the iconic kids series Rugrats with a 26-episode order from Nickelodeon and a live-action film featuring CGI characters from Paramount Players. Both the TV series and the movie will include new adventures with the famous characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, and will also introduce a new world of characters.
Original series creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return to the new series as executive producers. Rugrats the series will be produced in Burbank, California, with production already underway.
The Rugrats movie will be written by David A. Goodman and is set to be released on November 13, 2020 by Paramount Players, the division of Paramount Pictures that develops and produces co-branded feature films with Viacom’s flagship cable networks. Rugrats...
Original series creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return to the new series as executive producers. Rugrats the series will be produced in Burbank, California, with production already underway.
The Rugrats movie will be written by David A. Goodman and is set to be released on November 13, 2020 by Paramount Players, the division of Paramount Pictures that develops and produces co-branded feature films with Viacom’s flagship cable networks. Rugrats...
- 7/16/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Nickelodeon and Paramount Pictures announced today a relaunch of the kids’ entertainment franchise “Rugrats.” A new animated-series revival featuring the characters from the ’90s cartoon has received with a 26-episode order from Nickelodeon; and Paramount Players, the new film division launched to develop projects based on properties from Viacom cable channels, has given a greenlight to a live-action film featuring CGI characters. Both the TV series and the movie will include new adventures with beloved characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, and will also introduce a new world of characters.
The show’s original creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return to the TV series as executive producers. Nickelodeon’s “Rugrats” will be produced in Burbank, Calif., with production already underway. Additional news of the TV series, airdate and casting will be announced in the coming months.
“Rugrats is hands-down one of the most celebrated cartoons in TV history,...
The show’s original creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return to the TV series as executive producers. Nickelodeon’s “Rugrats” will be produced in Burbank, Calif., with production already underway. Additional news of the TV series, airdate and casting will be announced in the coming months.
“Rugrats is hands-down one of the most celebrated cartoons in TV history,...
- 7/16/2018
- by Ellis Clopton
- Variety Film + TV
Nickelodeon is reviving the animated kids series “Rugrats” with a 26-episode order and a live-action film from Paramount Players.
Production has already begun on the new series, though no premiere date or cast information has been announced. Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain, creators of the original 1991 series, will return as executive producers.
The movie, which is written by David Goodman and described as a “live-action film featuring CGI characters,” is slated for a November 13, 2020 release.
Also Read: Cyma Zarghami Steps Down as President of Nickelodeon Group
Both projects will feature the original characters Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, twins Phil and Lil DeVille and Angelica Pickles, as well as introduce new ones. It becomes the latest Nick project to get a revival, following the recently announced return of “Blue’s Clues” and upcoming “Rocko’s Modern Life” and “Invader Zim” specials.
“Rugrats is hands-down one of the most celebrated cartoons in TV history,...
Production has already begun on the new series, though no premiere date or cast information has been announced. Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain, creators of the original 1991 series, will return as executive producers.
The movie, which is written by David Goodman and described as a “live-action film featuring CGI characters,” is slated for a November 13, 2020 release.
Also Read: Cyma Zarghami Steps Down as President of Nickelodeon Group
Both projects will feature the original characters Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, twins Phil and Lil DeVille and Angelica Pickles, as well as introduce new ones. It becomes the latest Nick project to get a revival, following the recently announced return of “Blue’s Clues” and upcoming “Rocko’s Modern Life” and “Invader Zim” specials.
“Rugrats is hands-down one of the most celebrated cartoons in TV history,...
- 7/16/2018
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Viacom is bringing Rugrats back to both the big and small screens.
The media conglomerate on Monday announced that it is reviving the children's television series for a 26-episode greenlight at cable network Nickelodeon as well as a new live-action feature film featuring CGI characters for Paramount Players.
The TV series and movie will include new adventures with original characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, while also introducing a new world of characters.
Original creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return for the Nickelodeon series as executive producers. Production on the new animated ...
The media conglomerate on Monday announced that it is reviving the children's television series for a 26-episode greenlight at cable network Nickelodeon as well as a new live-action feature film featuring CGI characters for Paramount Players.
The TV series and movie will include new adventures with original characters Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, Susie and Angelica, while also introducing a new world of characters.
Original creators Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó and Paul Germain will return for the Nickelodeon series as executive producers. Production on the new animated ...
- 7/16/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
As you undoubtedly know, San Diego’s Comic-Con International happened this past weekend, and I was fortunate to be amongst the tens of thousands of attendees. There was, as always, a mega-ton to see and do, and it was hard to keep the Fomo (Fear Of Missing Out) from getting completely out of control over the 4.5 days of the con. To stay sane, though, at some point you just have to accept that you’re going to miss a bunch, and focus on what you do have the opportunity to see.
This year, one of my main interests was what Nickelodeon was showcasing. Of course, Nickelodeon is always on my radar, and particularly the current Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series, which I adore. But even beyond the coolness that is the Tmnt, this year, Nickelodeon was focusing on its past – in the best way possible. Through its late-night programming block of “The Splat,...
This year, one of my main interests was what Nickelodeon was showcasing. Of course, Nickelodeon is always on my radar, and particularly the current Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series, which I adore. But even beyond the coolness that is the Tmnt, this year, Nickelodeon was focusing on its past – in the best way possible. Through its late-night programming block of “The Splat,...
- 7/30/2016
- by Emily S. Whitten
- Comicmix.com
I participated in a Dreamago panel moderated by WGA-West VP and USC film writing prof and an artistic director at the Sundance Institute Wrting Labs, Howard Rodman.
Other panelists included Vince Fischer who, having been educated and working in Paris, Montreal, New York in business and advertising, event production, and creating the endorsement agency GlamCom which initiates deals between celebrities and products, such as he did with George Clooney and Nespresso, has gone on to create Artistic Alliance Eci which represents screenwriters, directors and actors with offices in Beijing, L.a. and Paris, to match people and projects abroad. Daniel Hsia, the writer/ director of Shanghai Calling, (Isa: Aldamisa) a U.S. - China co-production distributed in China by China Film Group and in So. Korea by Sookie and due to be released in Norht America in 2013 works with Janet Yang and is eager to do more co-productions in China though he admits to difficulties with censors, etc. You can see the trailer of Shanghai Calling here.
Neil Landau who wrote Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, the 3D animated feature Tad: The Lost Explores from Paramount which is the highest grossing animated film in Spain's history and the #1 Spanish box ofice movie of the year, is now working on its sequel and another animated feature by the same director. His latest screenplay is being produced by Cary Brokaw for Avenue Pictures (The Player, Closer, Angels in America). He is curretnly developing an original miniseries for HBO for the Russian Market and a crime drama for Sreda in Moscow.
Paula Manzanedo-Schmitt is VP of Film Finances Inc. the world leader in completion guarantees. She has been involved in more than 1,000 films and TV programs internationally and in U.S. She spoke of the various cross-cultural requisites in film production abroad.
The discussion centered around whether filmmakers could make a film without the notorioius interference of studios (they should all be so lucky as to have this problem). In other words, the panelists discussed their experiences making films with Russians and Chinese. All agreed that working abroad, and especially with international sales agents who also produce allows for greater freedom of vision (although in China the reward is writng so that China censorship does not interfere because one has written to their specifications). All agreed also that there is a certain cross-cultural divide one must discover in order to work effectively.
My suggestions for finding a way to create without corporate interferences are listed below:
** Coproduce with Canada who has the most coproduction treaties in the world, or go directly to producers or sales agents who do not rely on treaties.
** Work with international sales agents who produce international coproductions which include U.S., or with the producers of those films who now have established track records.
Take a look at Level K, Tine Klint's relatively new Danish company which is preselling films from U.K., Canada and Australia:
Not Another Happy Ending by Brit John McKay 33 Liberty Lane by Canadian Peter Hewitt The Turning by Australian Cate Blanchett and Robert Connelly starring Emily Watson The Last Ocean by New Zealander Peter Young
French sales agent Films Distribution is selling
Marina Zenovich's doc Roman Polanski: Odd Man Out which Showtime acquired for U.S. TV. Citadel from Ireland has sold to Cinedigm/ New Video for U.S. and Mongrel for Canada. 30 Beats from the U.S. sold to Roadside Attractions for U.S. and Codex Media And Advertising Corporation for Turkey.
Other French companies are doing likewise.
Studio Canal is selling
Liz Garbus' Love, Marilyn - though this was picked up complete at Tiff 12. Don Mazer's I Give It A Year from the U.K. and produced by Tim Bevan. It began presales in Cannes.
Celluloid Dreams is selling
Greetings From Tim Buckley--U.S.-Tiff 12 Special Presentations World Premiere - Director: Daniel Algrant The Comedian a U.K. comedy by Tom Shkolnik Francis Ha - U.S. - Tiff 12. by Noah Baumbach Satellite Boy - Australia The Conspiracy - U.K.
Snd is preselling The Love Punch an English language French comedy
Wild Bunch is selling
Blood Ties written by James Gray, directed by Guillaume Canet, Cast : Billy Crudup, Clive Owen, Marion Cottillard, Mila Kunis, Zoe Saldana, Producers: Alain Attal (Les Productions du Tresor), Hugo Selignac, John Lesher.
This very American sotry takes place in New York, 1974. Chris Pierzynski has just been released after years in prison for his part in a gangland murder. Waiting reluctantly outside the prison gates is his younger brother, Frank, a cop with a bright future. Chris and Frank have always been different, and their father, who raised them alone, has always favored Chris - despite all his troubles. Frank has known this since they were kids, and it eats at him like nothing else.
It has presold to Belgium-Lumière, Scandinvia -Scanbox Entertainment, Netherlands-Lumiere, Romania-Independenta Film, Switzerland-Frenetic Films, Turkey-Codex Media, Ukraine Top Film Distribution
Maniac by Franck Khalfoun U.S. English Horror, Writers : Alexandre Aja, Gregory Levasseur, Cast : Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder, America Olivo, Producers : Thomas Langmann (La Petite Reine), Alexandre Aja. It has presold to Germany -Ascot Elite, Japan - Comstock Only God Forbids by Nicolas Winding Refn from Denmark, in English has been selliing since Berlin 2012 and has sold to Bulgaria-A Plus Films Ltd., Germany-Tiberius Film Gmbh & Co. Kg, Hungary-Budapest Film (Distributor), Hungary-Mtva, Italy-Italian International Film, Korea (South)-Daisy & Cinergy Entertainment, Poland-Gutek Film Ltd, Romania-Independenta Film, Turkey-Calinos Films
Global Screen (Germany) has many English language films, some originating from U.S. and English speaking countries and others from non-English speaking countries.
• No Place on Earth (The Cave) by Emmy Award winning director Janet Tobias a U.S., U.K., German co-production. the doc tells the longest recorded underground survival story in human history, when 5 Jewish families descended into a pitch black cave to escape the Nazis for 511 days.
Hungaricom Ltd (Hungary) has the English language animated comedy feature The Secret of Moonacre and Immigrants - L.A. Dolce Vita both produced by Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo, and Gabor Kalomista, a Los Angeles based company with Hungarian born principals. The synopsis of Immigrants is worth repeating: More people immigrate to America than to all other countries in the whole world combined. Why? Is it because they love hot dogs and hamburgers? Or because they want to meet Snoop Dogg or have a close encounter with Pamela Anderson? Maybe. But the real reason is – immigrants go to the U.S. to chase the American dream. Immigrants is the story of Vladislav (a Russian), and Joska (a Hungarian). Both are immigrants and best friends, living and chasing the American dream together. Vlad has a daughter, Ana, who’s adapting to life in America at the speed of light, while her dad is in complete culture shock. They stay at the Vista del Mar, an apartment complex run by an old failed actress, Greta Knight, who is always after Vlad for sexual favors. The building is home to immigrants from all over the world: Flaco, a friend from Mexico; Mr. Chea, who runs a Chinese family restaurant; Nazim, a former Pakistani nuclear scientist who drives a tour bus; and Mr. Splits, an old black pimp. We follow Vlad and Joska in their adventures… through their encounter with the American capitalist company Glut-co, through their attempt to open a Russian/Hungarian restaurant, and as their friendship is put in jeopardy when they hit the L.A. night scene. All the while Vlad is looking for a way to make a life for himself and his daughter; and Joska… well, Joska is mainly looking for women.
If Niel Landau's adventures in Russia appeal to you, but you don't have the connections there, visit Rosskino and the L.A. based Eleonora Granata Russian Film Commissioner or produce in Russia through international sales agents which were founded by Russian-Americans who know both cultures such as Aldamisa (where longtime Disney acquisitons VP Jere Hausfater is now looking for projects), 108 Media who has Myn Bala the Kazahkistan submission for Best Foreign Language Academy Award nomination is Canadian owned, or Red Sea, all of whom are Russian – American and/ or Canadian owned.
Singapore is looking for Looking for copros and Icon has stepped up to the plate with James Wan Presents House of Horrors, an English language U.S. horror film now in pre-productions. In the aftermath of a horrific massacre, lead Detective, Mark Lewis, and the police department’s psychologist, Dr. Elizabeth Klein, question a suspect for the brutal murder of five college students. This has been preselling at Cannes 2012 (Line up), Afm 2011, Cannes 2011 and Berlin Efm 2012. Directed by Javier Guttierrez, written by James Wan and Max La Bella it will be distributed in Singapore by Cathay.
British companies are also packaging and preselling U.S. films:
Content is selling American indies 96 Minutes, Hick, Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence In The House Of God by Alex Gibney
Stealth Indie (Michael Cowan) is selling two U.S. indies, Crave and The Giant Mechanical Man
Bankside has a deal with New York based Killer Films for Innocence, now in post. This thriller is a modern-gothic vampire story where a recently bereaved teenage girl finds herself the focus of everyone’s attention at her elitist private school where life is steeped in tradition and ceremony.It has been preselling this at Afm 2011 and 2012, Toronto and Cannes 2011 and it has presold to Le Pacte for France, Videovision for So. Africa, Umut Sanat Filmcilik for Turkey, Shooting Stars for UAE.
Ealing Metro is preselling
Nina directed and written by Cynthia Mort, a U.S. production, a biopic about Nina Simone, a tormented genius who eventually finds love and peace. Produced by Barnaby Thompson, Stuart Parr, Mark Burton and Ben Latham Jones, it has presold since Toronto 2011 to Orlando for Israel, Entertainment One for Benelux, Cinesky has U.S. Better Living Through Chemistry directed and written by David Posamentier, a U.S. comedy now in post-production.A straight-laced pharmacist's uneventful life spirals out of control when he starts an affair with a dangerously seductive customer who takes him on a joyride with explosive consequenses involving sex, drugs and possibly murder. Starring Sam Rockwell, Olivia Wilde, Michelle Monaghan and Ray Liotta, produced by Felipe Marino, Joe Neurater and Keith Calder, it has presold to Metro Pictures of India. Bailout is being presold. One morning Matt Prior wakes up to find himself jobless, crippled with debt, convinced his wife is having an affair and six days away from losing his home. Bailout is a hysterical, heartfelt tale of how we can reach the edge of ruin and begin to make our way back.
Salt is preselling Welcome to the Jungle, a U.S. comedy directed by Rob Meltzer, written by Jeff Kauffman, produced by Justin Kanew and Luillo Ruiz and starring Adam Brody, Dennis Haysbert, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Kristen Schaal, Megan Boone and Rob Huebel. A group of co-workers including Chris (Adam Brody) get stranded on a desert island when their nutty teambuilding coach (Jean Claude Van Damme) is mauled by a wild cougar. in the spirit of "lost in the wilderness" comedies such as Tropic Thunder and workplace comedies like The Office, Welcome to the Jungle is a rare beast in today's market: a comedy that delivers on the laughs - both the high and the lowbrow. It has already presold to Front Row for the Middle East.
Westend is preselling Joe which will start shooting this month be delivered in 2013. It is to be directed by David Gordon Green, produced by lisa Muskat and stars Nicholas Cage. Joe is the story of a man who becomes the unlikeliest of role models to 15-year-old Gary Jones, the oldest child of a family ruled by a worthless father. Together they try to find a path to redemption and the hope for a better life in the rugged, dirty world of a small Southern town. Joe is the story of the last hold-out of the cowboy age, when it was okay to shoot up a bar room or tell a lady what to do.
Other panelists included Vince Fischer who, having been educated and working in Paris, Montreal, New York in business and advertising, event production, and creating the endorsement agency GlamCom which initiates deals between celebrities and products, such as he did with George Clooney and Nespresso, has gone on to create Artistic Alliance Eci which represents screenwriters, directors and actors with offices in Beijing, L.a. and Paris, to match people and projects abroad. Daniel Hsia, the writer/ director of Shanghai Calling, (Isa: Aldamisa) a U.S. - China co-production distributed in China by China Film Group and in So. Korea by Sookie and due to be released in Norht America in 2013 works with Janet Yang and is eager to do more co-productions in China though he admits to difficulties with censors, etc. You can see the trailer of Shanghai Calling here.
Neil Landau who wrote Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, the 3D animated feature Tad: The Lost Explores from Paramount which is the highest grossing animated film in Spain's history and the #1 Spanish box ofice movie of the year, is now working on its sequel and another animated feature by the same director. His latest screenplay is being produced by Cary Brokaw for Avenue Pictures (The Player, Closer, Angels in America). He is curretnly developing an original miniseries for HBO for the Russian Market and a crime drama for Sreda in Moscow.
Paula Manzanedo-Schmitt is VP of Film Finances Inc. the world leader in completion guarantees. She has been involved in more than 1,000 films and TV programs internationally and in U.S. She spoke of the various cross-cultural requisites in film production abroad.
The discussion centered around whether filmmakers could make a film without the notorioius interference of studios (they should all be so lucky as to have this problem). In other words, the panelists discussed their experiences making films with Russians and Chinese. All agreed that working abroad, and especially with international sales agents who also produce allows for greater freedom of vision (although in China the reward is writng so that China censorship does not interfere because one has written to their specifications). All agreed also that there is a certain cross-cultural divide one must discover in order to work effectively.
My suggestions for finding a way to create without corporate interferences are listed below:
** Coproduce with Canada who has the most coproduction treaties in the world, or go directly to producers or sales agents who do not rely on treaties.
** Work with international sales agents who produce international coproductions which include U.S., or with the producers of those films who now have established track records.
Take a look at Level K, Tine Klint's relatively new Danish company which is preselling films from U.K., Canada and Australia:
Not Another Happy Ending by Brit John McKay 33 Liberty Lane by Canadian Peter Hewitt The Turning by Australian Cate Blanchett and Robert Connelly starring Emily Watson The Last Ocean by New Zealander Peter Young
French sales agent Films Distribution is selling
Marina Zenovich's doc Roman Polanski: Odd Man Out which Showtime acquired for U.S. TV. Citadel from Ireland has sold to Cinedigm/ New Video for U.S. and Mongrel for Canada. 30 Beats from the U.S. sold to Roadside Attractions for U.S. and Codex Media And Advertising Corporation for Turkey.
Other French companies are doing likewise.
Studio Canal is selling
Liz Garbus' Love, Marilyn - though this was picked up complete at Tiff 12. Don Mazer's I Give It A Year from the U.K. and produced by Tim Bevan. It began presales in Cannes.
Celluloid Dreams is selling
Greetings From Tim Buckley--U.S.-Tiff 12 Special Presentations World Premiere - Director: Daniel Algrant The Comedian a U.K. comedy by Tom Shkolnik Francis Ha - U.S. - Tiff 12. by Noah Baumbach Satellite Boy - Australia The Conspiracy - U.K.
Snd is preselling The Love Punch an English language French comedy
Wild Bunch is selling
Blood Ties written by James Gray, directed by Guillaume Canet, Cast : Billy Crudup, Clive Owen, Marion Cottillard, Mila Kunis, Zoe Saldana, Producers: Alain Attal (Les Productions du Tresor), Hugo Selignac, John Lesher.
This very American sotry takes place in New York, 1974. Chris Pierzynski has just been released after years in prison for his part in a gangland murder. Waiting reluctantly outside the prison gates is his younger brother, Frank, a cop with a bright future. Chris and Frank have always been different, and their father, who raised them alone, has always favored Chris - despite all his troubles. Frank has known this since they were kids, and it eats at him like nothing else.
It has presold to Belgium-Lumière, Scandinvia -Scanbox Entertainment, Netherlands-Lumiere, Romania-Independenta Film, Switzerland-Frenetic Films, Turkey-Codex Media, Ukraine Top Film Distribution
Maniac by Franck Khalfoun U.S. English Horror, Writers : Alexandre Aja, Gregory Levasseur, Cast : Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder, America Olivo, Producers : Thomas Langmann (La Petite Reine), Alexandre Aja. It has presold to Germany -Ascot Elite, Japan - Comstock Only God Forbids by Nicolas Winding Refn from Denmark, in English has been selliing since Berlin 2012 and has sold to Bulgaria-A Plus Films Ltd., Germany-Tiberius Film Gmbh & Co. Kg, Hungary-Budapest Film (Distributor), Hungary-Mtva, Italy-Italian International Film, Korea (South)-Daisy & Cinergy Entertainment, Poland-Gutek Film Ltd, Romania-Independenta Film, Turkey-Calinos Films
Global Screen (Germany) has many English language films, some originating from U.S. and English speaking countries and others from non-English speaking countries.
• No Place on Earth (The Cave) by Emmy Award winning director Janet Tobias a U.S., U.K., German co-production. the doc tells the longest recorded underground survival story in human history, when 5 Jewish families descended into a pitch black cave to escape the Nazis for 511 days.
Hungaricom Ltd (Hungary) has the English language animated comedy feature The Secret of Moonacre and Immigrants - L.A. Dolce Vita both produced by Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo, and Gabor Kalomista, a Los Angeles based company with Hungarian born principals. The synopsis of Immigrants is worth repeating: More people immigrate to America than to all other countries in the whole world combined. Why? Is it because they love hot dogs and hamburgers? Or because they want to meet Snoop Dogg or have a close encounter with Pamela Anderson? Maybe. But the real reason is – immigrants go to the U.S. to chase the American dream. Immigrants is the story of Vladislav (a Russian), and Joska (a Hungarian). Both are immigrants and best friends, living and chasing the American dream together. Vlad has a daughter, Ana, who’s adapting to life in America at the speed of light, while her dad is in complete culture shock. They stay at the Vista del Mar, an apartment complex run by an old failed actress, Greta Knight, who is always after Vlad for sexual favors. The building is home to immigrants from all over the world: Flaco, a friend from Mexico; Mr. Chea, who runs a Chinese family restaurant; Nazim, a former Pakistani nuclear scientist who drives a tour bus; and Mr. Splits, an old black pimp. We follow Vlad and Joska in their adventures… through their encounter with the American capitalist company Glut-co, through their attempt to open a Russian/Hungarian restaurant, and as their friendship is put in jeopardy when they hit the L.A. night scene. All the while Vlad is looking for a way to make a life for himself and his daughter; and Joska… well, Joska is mainly looking for women.
If Niel Landau's adventures in Russia appeal to you, but you don't have the connections there, visit Rosskino and the L.A. based Eleonora Granata Russian Film Commissioner or produce in Russia through international sales agents which were founded by Russian-Americans who know both cultures such as Aldamisa (where longtime Disney acquisitons VP Jere Hausfater is now looking for projects), 108 Media who has Myn Bala the Kazahkistan submission for Best Foreign Language Academy Award nomination is Canadian owned, or Red Sea, all of whom are Russian – American and/ or Canadian owned.
Singapore is looking for Looking for copros and Icon has stepped up to the plate with James Wan Presents House of Horrors, an English language U.S. horror film now in pre-productions. In the aftermath of a horrific massacre, lead Detective, Mark Lewis, and the police department’s psychologist, Dr. Elizabeth Klein, question a suspect for the brutal murder of five college students. This has been preselling at Cannes 2012 (Line up), Afm 2011, Cannes 2011 and Berlin Efm 2012. Directed by Javier Guttierrez, written by James Wan and Max La Bella it will be distributed in Singapore by Cathay.
British companies are also packaging and preselling U.S. films:
Content is selling American indies 96 Minutes, Hick, Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence In The House Of God by Alex Gibney
Stealth Indie (Michael Cowan) is selling two U.S. indies, Crave and The Giant Mechanical Man
Bankside has a deal with New York based Killer Films for Innocence, now in post. This thriller is a modern-gothic vampire story where a recently bereaved teenage girl finds herself the focus of everyone’s attention at her elitist private school where life is steeped in tradition and ceremony.It has been preselling this at Afm 2011 and 2012, Toronto and Cannes 2011 and it has presold to Le Pacte for France, Videovision for So. Africa, Umut Sanat Filmcilik for Turkey, Shooting Stars for UAE.
Ealing Metro is preselling
Nina directed and written by Cynthia Mort, a U.S. production, a biopic about Nina Simone, a tormented genius who eventually finds love and peace. Produced by Barnaby Thompson, Stuart Parr, Mark Burton and Ben Latham Jones, it has presold since Toronto 2011 to Orlando for Israel, Entertainment One for Benelux, Cinesky has U.S. Better Living Through Chemistry directed and written by David Posamentier, a U.S. comedy now in post-production.A straight-laced pharmacist's uneventful life spirals out of control when he starts an affair with a dangerously seductive customer who takes him on a joyride with explosive consequenses involving sex, drugs and possibly murder. Starring Sam Rockwell, Olivia Wilde, Michelle Monaghan and Ray Liotta, produced by Felipe Marino, Joe Neurater and Keith Calder, it has presold to Metro Pictures of India. Bailout is being presold. One morning Matt Prior wakes up to find himself jobless, crippled with debt, convinced his wife is having an affair and six days away from losing his home. Bailout is a hysterical, heartfelt tale of how we can reach the edge of ruin and begin to make our way back.
Salt is preselling Welcome to the Jungle, a U.S. comedy directed by Rob Meltzer, written by Jeff Kauffman, produced by Justin Kanew and Luillo Ruiz and starring Adam Brody, Dennis Haysbert, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Kristen Schaal, Megan Boone and Rob Huebel. A group of co-workers including Chris (Adam Brody) get stranded on a desert island when their nutty teambuilding coach (Jean Claude Van Damme) is mauled by a wild cougar. in the spirit of "lost in the wilderness" comedies such as Tropic Thunder and workplace comedies like The Office, Welcome to the Jungle is a rare beast in today's market: a comedy that delivers on the laughs - both the high and the lowbrow. It has already presold to Front Row for the Middle East.
Westend is preselling Joe which will start shooting this month be delivered in 2013. It is to be directed by David Gordon Green, produced by lisa Muskat and stars Nicholas Cage. Joe is the story of a man who becomes the unlikeliest of role models to 15-year-old Gary Jones, the oldest child of a family ruled by a worthless father. Together they try to find a path to redemption and the hope for a better life in the rugged, dirty world of a small Southern town. Joe is the story of the last hold-out of the cowboy age, when it was okay to shoot up a bar room or tell a lady what to do.
- 11/5/2012
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Arlene Klasky and her partner, Gábor Csupó, formed Klasky Csupo, Inc. in 1981. While they have worked on numerous projects over the years, and still continue to do so, they are perhaps best known for the creation of the Emmy Award-winning Rugrats and The Wild Thornberries. With big screen box office hits such as The Rugrats Movie (1998), it's unlikely that you will be unfamiliar with the Klasky's work, while many of you (myself included) will have grown up watching shows such as those mentioned above. The studio is now working on two new digital comic books, Ollie Mongo Adventures in the Apocalypse and Splaat!. Recently, I was able to quiz Arlene Klasky on all of the above and much more (including the online debut of never-before-seen animated pilots). Links to where you can see all of these can be found in the interview below. Firstly, can you tell us about the...
- 8/8/2012
- ComicBookMovie.com
The brainchild of Arlene Klasky of Klasky Csupo Animation Studio and Craig Singer (film director/producer of Perkins 14 and Dark Ride), Ollie Mongo is a skatebaording zombie from the future (and New Jersey) who's determined to make all of our lives a lot more interesting; and who will be starring in his own digital comic book this summer. After the jump, check out my exclusive interview with Mr. Mongo. Who is Ollie Mongo, and where can zombie fans find him? Ollie Mongo? That's me! I'm a 16 year old skateboardin' fool...and a zombie! I live in the once beautiful seaside resort of Asbury Park, NJ, in the year 2210. Since the Apocalypse, things are pretty ramshackle around here. Hey, if ya wanna find...
- 5/4/2012
- FEARnet
It’s not every day, fright fans, one gets to interview the walking dead via e-mail so without further delay let me introduce Ollie Mongo: Skateborder, Zombie, New Jerseyan—hailing from Exits Unknown. He comes from the zombie future but through the magic of 1’s and 0’s has reached out to us in this present time to say hey, he’s undead and loving it. Ollie also wants nothing less than to share his world with us modern human beings. Dare you read ahead?
We now bring you Ollie, uncut and uncensored:
Q: So, Ollie, How Do You Like The Garden State?
Ollie: Yo, Heather, it’s rad to meet ya! Do ya skate? To answer your question, I dig the Garden State and love Asbury Park, my home town. I live in the year 2210… things have changed around here since the Apocalypse. I hear Asbury Park used to be the Jewel o’ Jersey,...
We now bring you Ollie, uncut and uncensored:
Q: So, Ollie, How Do You Like The Garden State?
Ollie: Yo, Heather, it’s rad to meet ya! Do ya skate? To answer your question, I dig the Garden State and love Asbury Park, my home town. I live in the year 2210… things have changed around here since the Apocalypse. I hear Asbury Park used to be the Jewel o’ Jersey,...
- 1/30/2012
- by Heather Buckley
- DreadCentral.com
It's been almost a decade since everyone's favorite bunch of toddlers were crawling around the animation studios at Nickelodeon. And longer still since we saw the Rugrats on the big-screen. Well, it seems like the long wait is finally over because Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil and Angelica are all coming back to theaters and this time in glorious live-action. Here's the red-band trailer for the Rugrats movie. Wait. What? Red-band trailer? I guess they have really grown up since their last adventure. Of course, there isn't a real Rugrats movie in production that would actually require a red-band trailer. Writer/director Ryan Perez has taken more than a few liberties in adapting the beloved children's cartoon from Arlene Klasky, Gábor Csupó, and Paul Germain, the biggest might be the desire to make it "the most disturbing film ever made." I don't think I'd go that far (Salò anyone?) but ...
- 1/18/2012
- cinemablend.com
The 2011 Undead Festival took place last weekend (October 21-23) in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and Dread Central was on the scene. We've returned with an overflowing image gallery and the following day-by-day event report. Read on to see what you might have missed so you can make your plans to be there next year!
New Jersey is becoming a veritable melting pot in which we appropriate anything awesome anyone does around the U.S. (or even the planet in some cases). As is the NJ tradition, we see something we like, we make it Ours!! In recent years this has included roller derby, burlesque events, Dr. Sketchy and the all-important Zombie Walk. Last year the Asbury Park Zombie Walk drew crowds of over 5 thousand shambling undead, all counted by the Guinness Book of World's Records, shattering the previous record. This year the promoters of this event, led by an overworked...
New Jersey is becoming a veritable melting pot in which we appropriate anything awesome anyone does around the U.S. (or even the planet in some cases). As is the NJ tradition, we see something we like, we make it Ours!! In recent years this has included roller derby, burlesque events, Dr. Sketchy and the all-important Zombie Walk. Last year the Asbury Park Zombie Walk drew crowds of over 5 thousand shambling undead, all counted by the Guinness Book of World's Records, shattering the previous record. This year the promoters of this event, led by an overworked...
- 10/28/2011
- by Nomad
- DreadCentral.com
The producers of last year’s Guinness World Record breaking New Jersey Zombie Walk present the 2011 Undead Festival ... because one day of zombie fun just isn’t enough! Alongside the world famous Zombie Walk, this year’s three-day event includes live entertainment, brand new movies to chill your bones, rows of vendors with spooky goodies, celebrities from your favorite horror films, and lots of free swag to take home! Here are some of the highlights...
• Take in the New Jersey premieres of films Chillerama and The Dead on Friday night, October 21, free to all convention attendees!
• The NJ Zombie Walk 2011, Saturday, October 22nd: A team of professional make-up artists will be on hand to give demonstrations and assist in giving complete zombie makeovers for a nominal fee to cover the artist’s expenses. The day starts at 10am, but the walk itself begins at 5pm so don’t be late!
• Take in the New Jersey premieres of films Chillerama and The Dead on Friday night, October 21, free to all convention attendees!
• The NJ Zombie Walk 2011, Saturday, October 22nd: A team of professional make-up artists will be on hand to give demonstrations and assist in giving complete zombie makeovers for a nominal fee to cover the artist’s expenses. The day starts at 10am, but the walk itself begins at 5pm so don’t be late!
- 10/15/2011
- by Nomad
- DreadCentral.com
Prolific production company Klasky-Csupo is to animated ugliness and freakish character design what Disney is to doe-eyed animals and syrupy cuteness. Klasky-Csupo animated The Simpsons back when the beloved cartoon family still looked like mutants. (Film Roman later gave the show a smoother, slicker look.) Then its Rugrats gave the world babies with faces only an unusually indulgent mother could love. In 1994, Klasky-Csupo capos Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo developed and executive-produced Duckman, a dark, adult animated adaptation of Everett Peck's Dark Horse comic about an irascible, bespectacled duck who's as ugly morally as he is physically. Jason Alexander voices the title character with an intentionally grating rasp and an emotional palette that runs the spectrum from mildly annoyed to exasperated to apoplectic. He's a cantankerous fowl along the lines of Daffy and Donald Duck, but without their impulse control and social graces. It's telling that the show's only.
- 9/24/2008
- by Nathan Rabin
- avclub.com
Kid-savvy producers Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo bring The Wild Thornberrys to the big screen in a big, satisfying way. A magical blend of wit (a hallmark of the Klasky Csupo imprint) and a big-hearted view of the world and all its creatures makes the film more than a good bet to bring in family audiences during the holidays and beyond. Sequels loom large.
Kate Boutilier's screenplay retains the characters' original charm while giving them a large canvas for a big, bouncy adventure. In their first movie, the venerable Thornberrys take on important (sometimes disturbing) issues involving the evils of animal poaching that are nevertheless carefully tempered with humor and optimism to keep them manageable for young audiences. Along the way, directors Jeff McGrath and Cathy Malkasian enliven the story with a sprightly pace that never lags.
For audiences unfamiliar with the family, some explaining is apparently in order: The producers wisely attach the television series' familiar preface instead of sullying the film's enchanting dialogue with awkward explanations of the family business.
Nigel Thornberry (the voice of Tim Curry) and wife Marianne (Jodi Carlisle) produce a television nature show from the wilds of Africa, traveling around that continent with two daughters, the bratty teenager Debbie (Danielle Harris) and the younger, sweet-natured Eliza (Lacey Chabert). The family comes to the aid of endangered animals and generally takes up an array of other good causes. The hook, of course, is that young Eliza has a secret only the audience shares: She can converse with animals.
One day, as Eliza plays with cheetah cubs, one is snatched by two poachers. Eliza believes she is to blame and vows to rescue the cub, no matter what it takes. From here the movie turns into her official rite of passage as she confronts not only the poachers but also a crucial decision involving her magical powers with the animals.
The film has a fundamentally feminist view of the world. Eliza is a tough cookie. Both her humor and deeply felt convictions about animal rights and conservation grow organically from the story's center without so much as a whiff of tacked-on political correctness.
The film's optimism and intelligence are heightened by its buoyant animation, an uplifting score by Drew Neumann and especially by Paul Simon's touching song "Father and Daughter". The voices of Lynn Redgrave, Brenda Blethyn, Alfre Woodard, Brock Peters, Rupert Everett and Marisa Tomei add even more charm.
THE WILD THORNBERRYS MOVIE
Paramount Pictures
Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies present a Klasky Csupo production
Credits:
Directors: Jeff McGrath, Cathy Malkasian
Screenwriter: Kate Boutilier
Producers: Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Julia Pistor, Eryk Casemiro, Hal Waite
Co-producers: Tracy Kramer, Terry Thoren, Norton Virgien, Sean Lurie
Music: Drew Neumann
Additional music: Randy Kerber
Production designer: Dima Malanitchev
Editor: John Bryant
Voices:
Eliza Thornberry: Lacey Chabert
Darwin: Tom Kane
Nigel Thornberry: Tim Curry
Marianne Thornberry: Jodi Carlisle
Donnie: Michael Balzary (aka Flea)
Debbie: Danielle Harris
Cordelia Thornberry: Lynn Redgrave
Sloan Blackburn: Rupert Everett
Bree Blackburn: Marisa Tomei
Mrs. Fairgood: Brenda Blethyn
Running time -- 88 minutes
MPAA rating: PG...
Kate Boutilier's screenplay retains the characters' original charm while giving them a large canvas for a big, bouncy adventure. In their first movie, the venerable Thornberrys take on important (sometimes disturbing) issues involving the evils of animal poaching that are nevertheless carefully tempered with humor and optimism to keep them manageable for young audiences. Along the way, directors Jeff McGrath and Cathy Malkasian enliven the story with a sprightly pace that never lags.
For audiences unfamiliar with the family, some explaining is apparently in order: The producers wisely attach the television series' familiar preface instead of sullying the film's enchanting dialogue with awkward explanations of the family business.
Nigel Thornberry (the voice of Tim Curry) and wife Marianne (Jodi Carlisle) produce a television nature show from the wilds of Africa, traveling around that continent with two daughters, the bratty teenager Debbie (Danielle Harris) and the younger, sweet-natured Eliza (Lacey Chabert). The family comes to the aid of endangered animals and generally takes up an array of other good causes. The hook, of course, is that young Eliza has a secret only the audience shares: She can converse with animals.
One day, as Eliza plays with cheetah cubs, one is snatched by two poachers. Eliza believes she is to blame and vows to rescue the cub, no matter what it takes. From here the movie turns into her official rite of passage as she confronts not only the poachers but also a crucial decision involving her magical powers with the animals.
The film has a fundamentally feminist view of the world. Eliza is a tough cookie. Both her humor and deeply felt convictions about animal rights and conservation grow organically from the story's center without so much as a whiff of tacked-on political correctness.
The film's optimism and intelligence are heightened by its buoyant animation, an uplifting score by Drew Neumann and especially by Paul Simon's touching song "Father and Daughter". The voices of Lynn Redgrave, Brenda Blethyn, Alfre Woodard, Brock Peters, Rupert Everett and Marisa Tomei add even more charm.
THE WILD THORNBERRYS MOVIE
Paramount Pictures
Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies present a Klasky Csupo production
Credits:
Directors: Jeff McGrath, Cathy Malkasian
Screenwriter: Kate Boutilier
Producers: Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Julia Pistor, Eryk Casemiro, Hal Waite
Co-producers: Tracy Kramer, Terry Thoren, Norton Virgien, Sean Lurie
Music: Drew Neumann
Additional music: Randy Kerber
Production designer: Dima Malanitchev
Editor: John Bryant
Voices:
Eliza Thornberry: Lacey Chabert
Darwin: Tom Kane
Nigel Thornberry: Tim Curry
Marianne Thornberry: Jodi Carlisle
Donnie: Michael Balzary (aka Flea)
Debbie: Danielle Harris
Cordelia Thornberry: Lynn Redgrave
Sloan Blackburn: Rupert Everett
Bree Blackburn: Marisa Tomei
Mrs. Fairgood: Brenda Blethyn
Running time -- 88 minutes
MPAA rating: PG...
- 12/16/2002
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The bodily functions flow liberally in "Rugrats in Paris: The Movie", the lively animated feature follow-up to the popular Nickelodeon residents' hit 1998 big-screen outing.
Faster-paced and noisier than its predecessor, the revved-up sequel's obsession with potty humor will likely have some parents exclaiming "mon Dieu" or, at least, "mon doo-doo." But despite the film's rather frenetic efforts to address pint-sized attention spans, there's plenty to amuse kids and their long-suffering caregivers.
Armed with those trademark satirical and tenderhearted moments, not to mention the Baha Men's ridiculously catchy "Who Let the Dogs Out" on the soundtrack, those irresistible Rugrats should do some gross stuff at the boxoffice before cleaning up on video.
After a funny "Godfather" parody, the new adventure begins when one of Stu Pickles' (voiced by Jack Riley) mechanical Reptar inventions goes seriously on the fritz, and he and the rest of the Rugrats roster is dispatched to Paris, home of the dazzling EuroReptarland amusement park.
It doesn't take long for plotting Angelica (Cheryl Chase) to meet her match with the attraction's kid-hating manager, the Cruella De Vil-lainous Coco La Bouche (Susan Sarandon), who's angling for a major promotion but needs to first set herself up as a loving family person.
She quickly sets her sights on widowed Charles Finster (Michael Bell), whose perpetually congested son Chuckie (Christine Cavanaugh, a k a the voice of Babe the pig) has been pining for a new Mom.
Ultimately, the good guys see through her little scheme -- but not before Angelica, Chuckie, Tommy, Phil, Lil, Baby Dil and company manage to effectively trash the City of Lights.
Once again, the character work is strong, and the celebrity recruits are fun, including Sarandon, being uncharacteristically nasty; John Lithgow as her pretentious personal assistant, Jean-Claude; and, in cameo turns, Debbie Reynolds as Grandpa Lou's new love interest, Tim Curry as a sumo karaoke singer and Casey Kasem as -- surprise -- a DJ.
And while it seems they could have toned it all down a few notches without fear of losing their audience, co-directors Stig Bergqvist and Paul Demeyer -- working from a script credited to J. David Stem and David N. Weiss (both of whom penned "The Rugrats Movie") along with series writers Jill Gorey, Barbara Herndon and Kate Boutilier -- do a good job of keeping things moving, physically and emotionally.
Technically speaking, the animation, while definitely not state-of-the-art, is richer than that found on the TV version. The computer-generated images have been retouched by hand to give the characters more warmth.
In addition to those infectious "Dogs", the inspired Maverick soundtrack surrounds the bouncy Mark Mothersbaugh score with similarly energetic tracks by the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Isaac Hayes and TLC's "T-Boz" Watkins as well as quieter things by Cyndi Lauper and Sinead O'Connor.
RUGRATS IN PARIS: THE MOVIE
Paramount
Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies
present a Klasky/Csupo production
Directors: Stig Bergqvist, Paul Demeyer
Producers: Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo
Screenwriters: J. David Stern & David N. Weiss, Jill Gorey & Barbara Herndon, Kate Boutilier
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Julia Pistor, Eryk Casemiro, Hal Waite
Production designer: Dima Malantichev
Editor: John Bryant
Music: Mark Mothersbaugh
Music supervisor: George Acogny
Color/stereo
Voices:
Coco La Bouche: Susan Sarandon
Jean-Claude: John Lithgow
Tommy Pickles: E.G. Daily
Chuckie Finster: Christine Cavanaugh
Phil and Lil Deville: Kath Soucie
Angelica Pickles: Cheryl Chase
Stu Pickles: Jack Riley
Chas Finster: Michael Bell
Kira Watanabe: Julia Kato
Kimi: Dionne Quan
Running time - 86 minutes
MPAA rating: G...
Faster-paced and noisier than its predecessor, the revved-up sequel's obsession with potty humor will likely have some parents exclaiming "mon Dieu" or, at least, "mon doo-doo." But despite the film's rather frenetic efforts to address pint-sized attention spans, there's plenty to amuse kids and their long-suffering caregivers.
Armed with those trademark satirical and tenderhearted moments, not to mention the Baha Men's ridiculously catchy "Who Let the Dogs Out" on the soundtrack, those irresistible Rugrats should do some gross stuff at the boxoffice before cleaning up on video.
After a funny "Godfather" parody, the new adventure begins when one of Stu Pickles' (voiced by Jack Riley) mechanical Reptar inventions goes seriously on the fritz, and he and the rest of the Rugrats roster is dispatched to Paris, home of the dazzling EuroReptarland amusement park.
It doesn't take long for plotting Angelica (Cheryl Chase) to meet her match with the attraction's kid-hating manager, the Cruella De Vil-lainous Coco La Bouche (Susan Sarandon), who's angling for a major promotion but needs to first set herself up as a loving family person.
She quickly sets her sights on widowed Charles Finster (Michael Bell), whose perpetually congested son Chuckie (Christine Cavanaugh, a k a the voice of Babe the pig) has been pining for a new Mom.
Ultimately, the good guys see through her little scheme -- but not before Angelica, Chuckie, Tommy, Phil, Lil, Baby Dil and company manage to effectively trash the City of Lights.
Once again, the character work is strong, and the celebrity recruits are fun, including Sarandon, being uncharacteristically nasty; John Lithgow as her pretentious personal assistant, Jean-Claude; and, in cameo turns, Debbie Reynolds as Grandpa Lou's new love interest, Tim Curry as a sumo karaoke singer and Casey Kasem as -- surprise -- a DJ.
And while it seems they could have toned it all down a few notches without fear of losing their audience, co-directors Stig Bergqvist and Paul Demeyer -- working from a script credited to J. David Stem and David N. Weiss (both of whom penned "The Rugrats Movie") along with series writers Jill Gorey, Barbara Herndon and Kate Boutilier -- do a good job of keeping things moving, physically and emotionally.
Technically speaking, the animation, while definitely not state-of-the-art, is richer than that found on the TV version. The computer-generated images have been retouched by hand to give the characters more warmth.
In addition to those infectious "Dogs", the inspired Maverick soundtrack surrounds the bouncy Mark Mothersbaugh score with similarly energetic tracks by the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Isaac Hayes and TLC's "T-Boz" Watkins as well as quieter things by Cyndi Lauper and Sinead O'Connor.
RUGRATS IN PARIS: THE MOVIE
Paramount
Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies
present a Klasky/Csupo production
Directors: Stig Bergqvist, Paul Demeyer
Producers: Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo
Screenwriters: J. David Stern & David N. Weiss, Jill Gorey & Barbara Herndon, Kate Boutilier
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Julia Pistor, Eryk Casemiro, Hal Waite
Production designer: Dima Malantichev
Editor: John Bryant
Music: Mark Mothersbaugh
Music supervisor: George Acogny
Color/stereo
Voices:
Coco La Bouche: Susan Sarandon
Jean-Claude: John Lithgow
Tommy Pickles: E.G. Daily
Chuckie Finster: Christine Cavanaugh
Phil and Lil Deville: Kath Soucie
Angelica Pickles: Cheryl Chase
Stu Pickles: Jack Riley
Chas Finster: Michael Bell
Kira Watanabe: Julia Kato
Kimi: Dionne Quan
Running time - 86 minutes
MPAA rating: G...
- 11/13/2000
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After seven hit seasons on Nickelodeon, "The Rugrats" have finally crawled their way to the big screen in a full-length, action-filled adventure that will neither disappoint fans nor overwhelm the uninitiated.
Retaining the refreshingly non-pandering tone that has made the series an animated success story -- by drawing more than 23 million viewers each week it's TV's No. 1 kids show -- "The Rugrats Movie" packs a duo-generational appeal that should translate into a "diapie-ful" of dollars for Paramount, with even bigger dividends waiting just around the video corner.
Kicking off with a delightful "Indiana Jones" fantasy sequence, the picture wastes little time in getting to the crux of the story -- the impending arrival of a new addition to the Pickles family.
While toddler Tommy (voiced by E.G. Daily) is initially unsure of how to welcome has new baby brother Dylan (Dil, for short, of course; voiced by Tara Charendoff), his playmates Chuckie Finster (Christine Cavanaugh) and twins Phil and Lil DeVille (Kath Soucie) decide there's only one way to stop his incessant crying -- to take him back to the "hopsickle" and ask for a refund since he's obviously "broked."
Loading the little one in the Reptar Wagon, the latest of dad Stu Pickles' (Jack Riley) wacky inventions, the Rugrats take a couple of unexpected turns, ending up stuck in a scary forest where they battle a troupe of derailed circus monkeys and a hungry wolf, not to mention tyrannical cousin Angelica (Cheryl Chase), who makes like Shirley-Lock Holmes on the trail of her missing Cynthia doll.
In expanding from the usual 13-15-minute segments to the feature-length big time, screenwriters David N. Weiss and J. David Stem and directors Norton Virgien and Igor Kovalyov have generally succeeded in retaining the show's rambunctious flavor, although the pacing, like the kids, occasionally loses its way during the extended woods sequence.
But it's a minor quibble given all the bright, bold visuals, the rich voice work (joining the regulars are guest turns from Whoopi Goldberg, Tim Curry, Andrea Martin, David Spade, Busta Rhymes and Roger Clinton) and music supervisor Karyn Rachtman's whimsical selection of tunes that are far more happening than those of that big purple guy, ranging from the familiar ("One Way or Another" and "Witch Doctor") to the brand spanking new ("I Throw My Toys Around", performed by No Doubt and Elvis Costello).
The hands-down-highlight, however, has to be the irresistibly scatological "This World is Something New to Me" number, a delivery ward "We Are the World" penned by the film's composer and former Devo member Mark Mothersbaugh, featuring an inspired vocal ensemble including Beck, Iggy Pop, the B-52's, Lenny Kravitz, Patti Smith, Jakob Dylan, Lisa Loeb, Laurie Anderson and Lou Rawls.
As kidflicks go, they just don't get any hipper than that.
THE RUGRATS MOVIE
Paramount
Paramount Pictures and
Nickelodeon Movies present
a Klasky-Csupo production
Directors: Norton Virgien and Igor Kovalyov
Producers: Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo
Screenwriters: David N. Weiss & J. David Stem
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Debby Beece
Art director: Dima Malanitchev
Music supervisor: Karyn Rachtman
Music: Mark Mothersbaugh
Color/stereo
Voices:
Tommy Pickles: E.G. Daily
Chuckie Finster: Christine Cavanaugh
Phil and Lil DeVille: Kath Soucie
Angelica Pickles: Cheryl Chase
Dylan Pickles: Tara Charendoff
Didi Pickles: Melanie Chartoff
Stu Pickles: Jack Riley
Grandpa Boris: Joe Alaskey
Running time -- 82 minutes
MPAA Rating: G...
Retaining the refreshingly non-pandering tone that has made the series an animated success story -- by drawing more than 23 million viewers each week it's TV's No. 1 kids show -- "The Rugrats Movie" packs a duo-generational appeal that should translate into a "diapie-ful" of dollars for Paramount, with even bigger dividends waiting just around the video corner.
Kicking off with a delightful "Indiana Jones" fantasy sequence, the picture wastes little time in getting to the crux of the story -- the impending arrival of a new addition to the Pickles family.
While toddler Tommy (voiced by E.G. Daily) is initially unsure of how to welcome has new baby brother Dylan (Dil, for short, of course; voiced by Tara Charendoff), his playmates Chuckie Finster (Christine Cavanaugh) and twins Phil and Lil DeVille (Kath Soucie) decide there's only one way to stop his incessant crying -- to take him back to the "hopsickle" and ask for a refund since he's obviously "broked."
Loading the little one in the Reptar Wagon, the latest of dad Stu Pickles' (Jack Riley) wacky inventions, the Rugrats take a couple of unexpected turns, ending up stuck in a scary forest where they battle a troupe of derailed circus monkeys and a hungry wolf, not to mention tyrannical cousin Angelica (Cheryl Chase), who makes like Shirley-Lock Holmes on the trail of her missing Cynthia doll.
In expanding from the usual 13-15-minute segments to the feature-length big time, screenwriters David N. Weiss and J. David Stem and directors Norton Virgien and Igor Kovalyov have generally succeeded in retaining the show's rambunctious flavor, although the pacing, like the kids, occasionally loses its way during the extended woods sequence.
But it's a minor quibble given all the bright, bold visuals, the rich voice work (joining the regulars are guest turns from Whoopi Goldberg, Tim Curry, Andrea Martin, David Spade, Busta Rhymes and Roger Clinton) and music supervisor Karyn Rachtman's whimsical selection of tunes that are far more happening than those of that big purple guy, ranging from the familiar ("One Way or Another" and "Witch Doctor") to the brand spanking new ("I Throw My Toys Around", performed by No Doubt and Elvis Costello).
The hands-down-highlight, however, has to be the irresistibly scatological "This World is Something New to Me" number, a delivery ward "We Are the World" penned by the film's composer and former Devo member Mark Mothersbaugh, featuring an inspired vocal ensemble including Beck, Iggy Pop, the B-52's, Lenny Kravitz, Patti Smith, Jakob Dylan, Lisa Loeb, Laurie Anderson and Lou Rawls.
As kidflicks go, they just don't get any hipper than that.
THE RUGRATS MOVIE
Paramount
Paramount Pictures and
Nickelodeon Movies present
a Klasky-Csupo production
Directors: Norton Virgien and Igor Kovalyov
Producers: Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo
Screenwriters: David N. Weiss & J. David Stem
Executive producers: Albie Hecht, Debby Beece
Art director: Dima Malanitchev
Music supervisor: Karyn Rachtman
Music: Mark Mothersbaugh
Color/stereo
Voices:
Tommy Pickles: E.G. Daily
Chuckie Finster: Christine Cavanaugh
Phil and Lil DeVille: Kath Soucie
Angelica Pickles: Cheryl Chase
Dylan Pickles: Tara Charendoff
Didi Pickles: Melanie Chartoff
Stu Pickles: Jack Riley
Grandpa Boris: Joe Alaskey
Running time -- 82 minutes
MPAA Rating: G...
- 11/9/1998
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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