Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights today announced that Fran Drescher, SAG-AFTRA president, actor, writer, and activist, will receive the 2023 Ripple of Hope Award in recognition of her leadership advocating for workers’ rights.
Drescher will join fellow 2023 honorees, including The Edwin Barbey Charitable Trust, a donor-advised fund of the Arizona Community Foundation, and the previously announced January 6th Select Committee, at the annual Ripple of Hope Gala in New York City on December 6.
The Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope Award honors exemplary leaders across government, business, advocacy, and entertainment who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social change and worked to protect and advance equity, justice, and human rights. Since being elected SAG-AFTRA president in 2021 during an unprecedented time in the union’s history, Drescher has sought to safeguard workers and performers amid new industry challenges, has encouraged a culture of respect and empathy, and has advocated for a living wage.
Drescher will join fellow 2023 honorees, including The Edwin Barbey Charitable Trust, a donor-advised fund of the Arizona Community Foundation, and the previously announced January 6th Select Committee, at the annual Ripple of Hope Gala in New York City on December 6.
The Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope Award honors exemplary leaders across government, business, advocacy, and entertainment who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social change and worked to protect and advance equity, justice, and human rights. Since being elected SAG-AFTRA president in 2021 during an unprecedented time in the union’s history, Drescher has sought to safeguard workers and performers amid new industry challenges, has encouraged a culture of respect and empathy, and has advocated for a living wage.
- 11/22/2023
- Look to the Stars
Click here to read the full article.
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Enola Holmes 2, Blockbuster and Wif Honors.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever world premiere
The highly anticipated sequel made its debut on Wednesday night in Hollywood, alongside director Ryan Coogler and stars Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, Winston Duke and newcomers Tenoch Huerta and Michaela Coel. Rihanna, who has new music on the film’s soundtrack, also made an appearance, as well as a starry guest list including Michael B. Jordan, Daniel Kaluuya, Janelle Monáe, Tessa Thompson, Kumail Nanjiani, Regé-Jean Page, Tyler Perry, Simu Liu and Quinta Brunson.
Lupita Nyong’o Winston Duke and Letitia Wright Kevin Feige, Disney Studios Content chairman Alan Bergman and Ryan Coogler Rihanna and Aap Rocky
Enola Holmes 2...
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Enola Holmes 2, Blockbuster and Wif Honors.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever world premiere
The highly anticipated sequel made its debut on Wednesday night in Hollywood, alongside director Ryan Coogler and stars Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, Winston Duke and newcomers Tenoch Huerta and Michaela Coel. Rihanna, who has new music on the film’s soundtrack, also made an appearance, as well as a starry guest list including Michael B. Jordan, Daniel Kaluuya, Janelle Monáe, Tessa Thompson, Kumail Nanjiani, Regé-Jean Page, Tyler Perry, Simu Liu and Quinta Brunson.
Lupita Nyong’o Winston Duke and Letitia Wright Kevin Feige, Disney Studios Content chairman Alan Bergman and Ryan Coogler Rihanna and Aap Rocky
Enola Holmes 2...
- 10/28/2022
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The inaugural gala for The Grio Awards are set to honor icons, leaders and legends like Tyler Perry, Patti Labelle, Dave Chappelle and Normal Lear.
Created by Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, The Grio Awards celebrate excellence in film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice, education and the cultural icons and innovators, whose many contributions positively impact America.
“I created theGrio Awards to celebrate and amplify African-American excellence and the incredible champions from other communities who truly support us,” said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group. “As a child, strong, positive African-American icons such as Berry Gordy, Jr., Rosa Parks, Muhammad Ali, and Martin Luther King, Jr. helped me see myself differently, and changed the trajectory of my life. Celebrating and amplifying iconic individuals is something we can never do enough of, especially for our children.”
At the first award show,...
Created by Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, The Grio Awards celebrate excellence in film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice, education and the cultural icons and innovators, whose many contributions positively impact America.
“I created theGrio Awards to celebrate and amplify African-American excellence and the incredible champions from other communities who truly support us,” said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group. “As a child, strong, positive African-American icons such as Berry Gordy, Jr., Rosa Parks, Muhammad Ali, and Martin Luther King, Jr. helped me see myself differently, and changed the trajectory of my life. Celebrating and amplifying iconic individuals is something we can never do enough of, especially for our children.”
At the first award show,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group on Monday announced the launch of a new awards ceremony, theGrio Awards, with honorees set to include Tyler Perry, Dave Chappelle and Jennifer Hudson.
TheGrio Awards aim to celebrate luminaries from the worlds of film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice and education, as well as cultural icons and innovators “whose many contributions positively impact America.”
The ceremony, which will be hosted by Sheryl Underwood and Taye Diggs, will take place Oct. 22 at the Beverly Hilton and will air Nov. 5 on TV stations around the country, as well as on theGrio Television Network and other Allen Media Group television and digital platforms. Allen Media Group purchased theGrio, an African American-focused news, lifestyle, sports and entertainment platform, in 2016.
Perry will receive the Icon Award at the event, while Chappelle will accept the Cultural Icon Award,...
Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group on Monday announced the launch of a new awards ceremony, theGrio Awards, with honorees set to include Tyler Perry, Dave Chappelle and Jennifer Hudson.
TheGrio Awards aim to celebrate luminaries from the worlds of film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice and education, as well as cultural icons and innovators “whose many contributions positively impact America.”
The ceremony, which will be hosted by Sheryl Underwood and Taye Diggs, will take place Oct. 22 at the Beverly Hilton and will air Nov. 5 on TV stations around the country, as well as on theGrio Television Network and other Allen Media Group television and digital platforms. Allen Media Group purchased theGrio, an African American-focused news, lifestyle, sports and entertainment platform, in 2016.
Perry will receive the Icon Award at the event, while Chappelle will accept the Cultural Icon Award,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Floyd Mayweather Jr. is set to chronicle his life and career as a champion boxer through a new docuseries, titled “The Goat,” after inking a life-rights deal with Hidden Empire Films’ Deon Taylor and Roxanne Avent Taylor.
“Now is the perfect time to share my story with the world and let viewers in on my journey from early days of hardships to overcoming adversity to become the athlete and entrepreneur I am today,” Mayweather said in a statement announcing the deal. “As someone who owns his own brand, I can’t think of better partners than Deon, Roxanne, Robert F. Smith — the wealthiest African American in the world — and Hidden Empire Films, a prolific Black-owned production company. This is going to be incredibly special!”
Under the new pact, Hidden Empire Films gains exclusive access to Mayweather’s personal library of never-before-seen footage, including hundreds of hours of video and audio...
“Now is the perfect time to share my story with the world and let viewers in on my journey from early days of hardships to overcoming adversity to become the athlete and entrepreneur I am today,” Mayweather said in a statement announcing the deal. “As someone who owns his own brand, I can’t think of better partners than Deon, Roxanne, Robert F. Smith — the wealthiest African American in the world — and Hidden Empire Films, a prolific Black-owned production company. This is going to be incredibly special!”
Under the new pact, Hidden Empire Films gains exclusive access to Mayweather’s personal library of never-before-seen footage, including hundreds of hours of video and audio...
- 10/6/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Sun Valley, the annual event colloquially known as “summer camp for billionaires,” kicks off as usual on July 5.
But the moguls who flock to the Allen & Co. retreat may not be as relaxed as usual when they touch down at the Sun Valley Lodge in the Idaho resort town: From darkening economic clouds to choppy leadership transitions at some of the most storied media companies, there are plenty of reasons for the 1 of the 1 to be breaking a sweat these days.
The stock market’s roller coaster ride in the first half of the year means that some regulars at the annual gathering hosted by investment bank Allen & Co. will be arriving with much-diminished market caps. Shari Redstone, chairman of Paramount Global, and David Zaslav, CEO of the newly minted Warner Bros. Discovery, may be among those commiserating about taking brutal equity losses. Although Warner Bros. Discovery is barely three months old in this configuration,...
But the moguls who flock to the Allen & Co. retreat may not be as relaxed as usual when they touch down at the Sun Valley Lodge in the Idaho resort town: From darkening economic clouds to choppy leadership transitions at some of the most storied media companies, there are plenty of reasons for the 1 of the 1 to be breaking a sweat these days.
The stock market’s roller coaster ride in the first half of the year means that some regulars at the annual gathering hosted by investment bank Allen & Co. will be arriving with much-diminished market caps. Shari Redstone, chairman of Paramount Global, and David Zaslav, CEO of the newly minted Warner Bros. Discovery, may be among those commiserating about taking brutal equity losses. Although Warner Bros. Discovery is barely three months old in this configuration,...
- 7/4/2022
- by Brent Lang and Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
FX's "Atlanta" is famous for taking inspiration from real-life events and controversy, but season three's ninth episode picks up a new storyline we have yet to see from the series. In yet another detour episode without our mainstay crew - Earn (Donald Glover), Paper Boi (Brian Tyree Henry), Darius (Lakeith Stanfield), and Van (Zazie Beetz) - titled "Rich Wigga, Poor Wigga" (a clever nod to Jay-Z's "The Story of O.J."), we follow a new protagonist named Aaron (played by Tyriq Withers), a high school senior who struggles with being biracial.
Throughout the episode, "Atlanta" tugs at Aaron's inner quarrel that pits his Black and white identities against each other through a series of ridiculous scenarios and subtle hints (like the Outkast "Stankonia" poster recreation Aaron pays no mind to or his out-of-touch views on police violence) that eventually force him to make a tough decision. By way...
Throughout the episode, "Atlanta" tugs at Aaron's inner quarrel that pits his Black and white identities against each other through a series of ridiculous scenarios and subtle hints (like the Outkast "Stankonia" poster recreation Aaron pays no mind to or his out-of-touch views on police violence) that eventually force him to make a tough decision. By way...
- 5/13/2022
- by Njera Perkins
- Popsugar.com
Exclusive: Deon Taylor and Roxanne Avent Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group is partnering with actor, comedian and digital content creator Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor to develop a scripted series chronicling his rise to fame on social media amid mainstream entertainment aspirations.
The new series is just the latest to center on the multi-hyphenate, who first garnered international recognition as the biggest star on the now-defunct video sharing service, Vine. Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele had looked to develop a Fox comedy loosely based on a King Bach Vine all the way back in 2015, as a follow-up to their beloved sketch show Key & Peele, with Bachelor set to star, though that series never made it to air.
Deon Taylor will direct the untitled project and exec produce with Roxanne Avent Taylor, alongside Andrew Bachelor, Christina Bachelor and Gary Glushon of Bach Enterprises, and Caleeb Pinkett via his Twentyfive8 Entertainment. It...
The new series is just the latest to center on the multi-hyphenate, who first garnered international recognition as the biggest star on the now-defunct video sharing service, Vine. Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele had looked to develop a Fox comedy loosely based on a King Bach Vine all the way back in 2015, as a follow-up to their beloved sketch show Key & Peele, with Bachelor set to star, though that series never made it to air.
Deon Taylor will direct the untitled project and exec produce with Roxanne Avent Taylor, alongside Andrew Bachelor, Christina Bachelor and Gary Glushon of Bach Enterprises, and Caleeb Pinkett via his Twentyfive8 Entertainment. It...
- 2/23/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Hidden Empire Film Group — the film and TV production entity run by filmmaker Deon Taylor, Roxanne Avent and billionaire businessman Robert F. Smith — has brought industry veteran Quincy Newell on board as chief operating officer.
In his new role, Newell will oversee the day-to-day running of the indie producer. Before launching TwentyOne14 Media — where he will continue as CEO of the boutique producer and distributor — Newell co-founded Codeblack Entertainment, which eventually became the movie label Codeblack Films at Lionsgate.
And Hidden Empire Film Group has promoted Omar Joseph to president, production and music, where he will ...
In his new role, Newell will oversee the day-to-day running of the indie producer. Before launching TwentyOne14 Media — where he will continue as CEO of the boutique producer and distributor — Newell co-founded Codeblack Entertainment, which eventually became the movie label Codeblack Films at Lionsgate.
And Hidden Empire Film Group has promoted Omar Joseph to president, production and music, where he will ...
- 3/26/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Hidden Empire Film Group — the film and TV production entity run by filmmaker Deon Taylor, Roxanne Avent and billionaire businessman Robert F. Smith — has brought industry veteran Quincy Newell on board as chief operating officer.
In his new role, Newell will oversee the day-to-day running of the indie producer. Before launching TwentyOne14 Media — where he will continue as CEO of the boutique producer and distributor — Newell co-founded Codeblack Entertainment, which eventually became the movie label Codeblack Films at Lionsgate.
And Hidden Empire Film Group has promoted Omar Joseph to president, production and music, where he will ...
In his new role, Newell will oversee the day-to-day running of the indie producer. Before launching TwentyOne14 Media — where he will continue as CEO of the boutique producer and distributor — Newell co-founded Codeblack Entertainment, which eventually became the movie label Codeblack Films at Lionsgate.
And Hidden Empire Film Group has promoted Omar Joseph to president, production and music, where he will ...
- 3/26/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Harry Belafonte will turn 94 years old on March 1. To honor his birthday, a cadre of friends and famous fans are gathering Feb. 28 for a virtual event that will feature performances, video tributes and testimonials by civil rights and racial justice leaders, politicians, artists, athletes and more. It will serve as a fundraiser for Belafonte’s Gathering for Justice organization and is sponsored in part by the Hope and Robert F. Smith family.
Belafonte founded the org in 2005 after seeing a news story of a 5-year-old Black girl who was cuffed and arrested in her Florida classroom for “being unruly....
Belafonte founded the org in 2005 after seeing a news story of a 5-year-old Black girl who was cuffed and arrested in her Florida classroom for “being unruly....
- 2/17/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Harry Belafonte will turn 94 years old on March 1. To honor his birthday, a cadre of friends and famous fans are gathering Feb. 28 for a virtual event that will feature performances, video tributes and testimonials by civil rights and racial justice leaders, politicians, artists, athletes and more. It will serve as a fundraiser for Belafonte’s Gathering for Justice organization and is sponsored in part by the Hope and Robert F. Smith family.
Belafonte founded the org in 2005 after seeing a news story of a 5-year-old Black girl who was cuffed and arrested in her Florida classroom for “being unruly....
Belafonte founded the org in 2005 after seeing a news story of a 5-year-old Black girl who was cuffed and arrested in her Florida classroom for “being unruly....
- 2/17/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A live virtual party in honor of actor Harry Belafonte’s 94th birthday will be held on Sunday, February 28th at 7:00 p.m. Et.
The event will feature performances and appearances from Common, Danny Glover, Chuck D, Bernie Sanders with his wife Jane, Stacey Abrams, Aloe Blacc, Tamika D. Mallory, Rev. Al Sharpton, Jackie Cruz, Aja Monet, Mysonne the General, Diane Nash, Carmen Perez-Jordan, DJ Carisma, Bryan Stevenson, Kerry Kennedy, Matt Post, and more.
Proceeds from the Gathering for Harry will benefit the non-profit group the Gathering for Justice,...
The event will feature performances and appearances from Common, Danny Glover, Chuck D, Bernie Sanders with his wife Jane, Stacey Abrams, Aloe Blacc, Tamika D. Mallory, Rev. Al Sharpton, Jackie Cruz, Aja Monet, Mysonne the General, Diane Nash, Carmen Perez-Jordan, DJ Carisma, Bryan Stevenson, Kerry Kennedy, Matt Post, and more.
Proceeds from the Gathering for Harry will benefit the non-profit group the Gathering for Justice,...
- 2/16/2021
- by Claire Shaffer
- Rollingstone.com
Writer-director Deon Taylor will direct the upcoming film “Freedom Ride,” based on first-person accounts of the original freedom riders, including the late Congressman John Lewis.
Taylor and his Hidden Empire Film Group partner Robert F. Smith will executive produce the project, joining a producing team that includes civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and his company, Brooklyn Media, as well as The Hideaway Entertainment and Inde Companies.
“John Lewis once said, ‘You are a light. You are the light! Never let anyone — any person or any force — dampen, dim or diminish your light…Release the need to hate, to harbor division, and the enticement of revenge. Release all bitterness. Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won.’ His words not only resonate with me as human, but inspire me to tell his amazing story,” Taylor said in a statement.
Taylor and his Hidden Empire Film Group partner Robert F. Smith will executive produce the project, joining a producing team that includes civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and his company, Brooklyn Media, as well as The Hideaway Entertainment and Inde Companies.
“John Lewis once said, ‘You are a light. You are the light! Never let anyone — any person or any force — dampen, dim or diminish your light…Release the need to hate, to harbor division, and the enticement of revenge. Release all bitterness. Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won.’ His words not only resonate with me as human, but inspire me to tell his amazing story,” Taylor said in a statement.
- 2/4/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Deon Taylor, director of the recently released thriller “Fatale,” is set to direct “Freedom Ride,” a biopic about the late Georgia Congressman John Lewis and his leadership of the 1961 Freedom Riders.
Taylor will also executive produce through his Hidden Empire Film Group alongside his partner Robert F. Smith, civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and documentarian Steven Vosburgh, who will write the script based on his interviews with Lewis and other Freedom Riders. Producers include Inde Companies’ Kim Leadford and Mark R. Harris, The Hideaway Entertainment’s Matthew Rhodes and Hidden Empire Film Group’s Roxanne Avent Taylor.
The Freedom Riders were a group of protesters who challenged the non-enforcement of Supreme Court rulings that found segregated public buses to be unconstitutional. The Riders risked their lives by traveling throughout the Deep South in desegregated buses, and were regularly attacked by white mobs led by the Ku Klux Klan. Their efforts...
Taylor will also executive produce through his Hidden Empire Film Group alongside his partner Robert F. Smith, civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and documentarian Steven Vosburgh, who will write the script based on his interviews with Lewis and other Freedom Riders. Producers include Inde Companies’ Kim Leadford and Mark R. Harris, The Hideaway Entertainment’s Matthew Rhodes and Hidden Empire Film Group’s Roxanne Avent Taylor.
The Freedom Riders were a group of protesters who challenged the non-enforcement of Supreme Court rulings that found segregated public buses to be unconstitutional. The Riders risked their lives by traveling throughout the Deep South in desegregated buses, and were regularly attacked by white mobs led by the Ku Klux Klan. Their efforts...
- 2/4/2021
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Producers targeting summer start in Georgia and Alabama.
Deon Taylor has come on board to direct Civil Rights drama Freedom Ride, recounting the efforts by the late Congressman John Lewis and other activists to end segregation laws.
The Hideaway Entertainment, Inde Companies and Hidden Empire Film Group have targeted a summer production start and plan to film in Atlanta, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama.
Steven Vosburgh, Dusdi Fissette, and Taylor wrote the screenplay set in 1961 about the Freedom Riders – a multiracial group of young activists led by Lewis, who went on to become a Congressman and died last summer, as they...
Deon Taylor has come on board to direct Civil Rights drama Freedom Ride, recounting the efforts by the late Congressman John Lewis and other activists to end segregation laws.
The Hideaway Entertainment, Inde Companies and Hidden Empire Film Group have targeted a summer production start and plan to film in Atlanta, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama.
Steven Vosburgh, Dusdi Fissette, and Taylor wrote the screenplay set in 1961 about the Freedom Riders – a multiracial group of young activists led by Lewis, who went on to become a Congressman and died last summer, as they...
- 2/4/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Deon Taylor is set to direct Freedom Ride, a period drama that will be produced by The Hideaway Entertainment’s Matthew Rhodes (Cherry), Inde Companies’ Kim Leadford (The Butler), Mark R. Harris (Crash) and Hidden Empire Film Group’s Roxanne Avent Taylor (Fatale). Taylor, whose films include Fatale and Black and Blue, has written the script with Steven Vosburgh and Dusdi Fissette based on first-person accounts by a dozen of the original Freedom Riders, including the late civil rights icon and U.S. Congressman John Lewis.
Taylor and his Hidden Empire Film Group partner Robert F. Smith will be exec producers, along with Benjamin Crump and his company Brooklyn Media. Crump is the noted civil rights attorney who represents the family of the late George Floyd and repped the family of Trayvon Martin. The filmmakers will go out quickly to land a distributor for the package, in time for a hoped-for summer start date.
Taylor and his Hidden Empire Film Group partner Robert F. Smith will be exec producers, along with Benjamin Crump and his company Brooklyn Media. Crump is the noted civil rights attorney who represents the family of the late George Floyd and repped the family of Trayvon Martin. The filmmakers will go out quickly to land a distributor for the package, in time for a hoped-for summer start date.
- 2/4/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
The Jackie Robinson Foundation (Jrf) announced today the recipients of the 2020 Robie Awards to be presented at its annual Awards Dinner on Monday, March 2nd, at the New York Marriott Marquis.
The event pays tribute to individuals who embody the humanitarian ideals of Jackie Robinson while raising funds for the Jackie Robinson Foundation.
For 47 years, Jrf has provided generous four-year scholarships, year-round mentoring and leadership development opportunities to talented college students known as Jrf Scholars. The opening of the Jackie Robinson Museum later this year will expand the Foundation’s mission and will educate and inspire the public about the life and legacy of American hero Jackie Robinson.
Dorothea and her husband, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jon Bon Jovi, will receive the Foundation’s Robie Humanitarian Award for their extraordinary efforts to break the cycle of poverty, hunger and homelessness through the Jbj Soul Foundation. John W. Rogers,...
The event pays tribute to individuals who embody the humanitarian ideals of Jackie Robinson while raising funds for the Jackie Robinson Foundation.
For 47 years, Jrf has provided generous four-year scholarships, year-round mentoring and leadership development opportunities to talented college students known as Jrf Scholars. The opening of the Jackie Robinson Museum later this year will expand the Foundation’s mission and will educate and inspire the public about the life and legacy of American hero Jackie Robinson.
Dorothea and her husband, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jon Bon Jovi, will receive the Foundation’s Robie Humanitarian Award for their extraordinary efforts to break the cycle of poverty, hunger and homelessness through the Jbj Soul Foundation. John W. Rogers,...
- 3/2/2020
- Look to the Stars
In today’s film news roundup, Eric Bana and Melissa Leo launch movie projects, Paradigm names four agents, Michael B. Jordan is being honored and Hilary Swank’s “Fatale” gets a release date.
Project Launches
Eric Bana’s Pick Up Truck Pictures and Robert Connolly’s Arenamedia have secured rights to the “Mike the Bike” motorcycle story.
Bana will star as Mike Hailwood, considered among the greatest motorcycle racers of all time. Bana and Connolly will direct from a screenplay written by Bana. The story will focus on the story of Hailwood, a nine-time world-champion motorcycle racer returning to the Isle of Man race in 1978 after an 11-year hiatus. Run on public roads on the British Island, The Isle of Man is among to most dangerous races in the world, with 151 fatalities since its inception in 1907.
“We are absolutely thrilled that Eric Bana and Robert Connolly have taken Mike’s...
Project Launches
Eric Bana’s Pick Up Truck Pictures and Robert Connolly’s Arenamedia have secured rights to the “Mike the Bike” motorcycle story.
Bana will star as Mike Hailwood, considered among the greatest motorcycle racers of all time. Bana and Connolly will direct from a screenplay written by Bana. The story will focus on the story of Hailwood, a nine-time world-champion motorcycle racer returning to the Isle of Man race in 1978 after an 11-year hiatus. Run on public roads on the British Island, The Isle of Man is among to most dangerous races in the world, with 151 fatalities since its inception in 1907.
“We are absolutely thrilled that Eric Bana and Robert Connolly have taken Mike’s...
- 2/26/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Lionel Essrog (Edward Norton), a lonely private detective living with Tourette Syndrome, ventures to solve the murder of his mentor and only friend, Frank Minna (Bruce Willis). Armed only with a few clues and the engine of his obsessive mind, Lionel unravels closely guarded secrets that hold the fate of New York in the balance. In a mystery that carries him from gin-soaked jazz clubs in Harlem to the hard-edged slums of Brooklyn and, finally, into the gilded halls of New York’s power brokers, Lionel contends with thugs, corruption and the most dangerous man in the city to honor his friend and save the woman who might be his own salvation.
Oscar nominee Edward Norton directed, wrote, produced and stars in “Motherless Brooklyn.” The film’s journey to the screen began in 1999 when Norton saw the cinematic potential in Jonathan Lethem’s novel Motherless Brooklyn and its unforgettable central character.
Oscar nominee Edward Norton directed, wrote, produced and stars in “Motherless Brooklyn.” The film’s journey to the screen began in 1999 when Norton saw the cinematic potential in Jonathan Lethem’s novel Motherless Brooklyn and its unforgettable central character.
- 10/28/2019
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Exclusive: Hidden Empire Film Group has acquired screen rights to Alex Owumi’s 2013 autobiography Qaddafi’s Point Guard. The book was adapted into a screenplay by Jp Ouellette (Captured) and Ryan Ginnetty, Owumi’s childhood friend and associate. Deon Taylor is set to direct and is producing in conjunction with his Hidden Empire Film Group partners Roxanne Taylor and Robert F. Smith. The company is also financing the film.
Taylor is coming off the Screen Gems summer hit The Intruder, which starred Dennis Quaid and Michael Ealy.
Owumi was a professional basketball player in Libya and the book chronicles his journey after finding himself trapped in Benghazi as the civil war broke out in the spring of 2011. Owumi previously discussed his experiences in Benghazi in his powerful
“> Ted Talk in 2014. He spoke about all he witnessed while trapped there and the people that rallied to save him as he journeyed to escape.
Taylor is coming off the Screen Gems summer hit The Intruder, which starred Dennis Quaid and Michael Ealy.
Owumi was a professional basketball player in Libya and the book chronicles his journey after finding himself trapped in Benghazi as the civil war broke out in the spring of 2011. Owumi previously discussed his experiences in Benghazi in his powerful
“> Ted Talk in 2014. He spoke about all he witnessed while trapped there and the people that rallied to save him as he journeyed to escape.
- 9/26/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Mission: Impossible – Fallout, Roma, Jack Ryan, and Chernobyl all picked up honors tonight from the 6th annual Location Managers Guild International Awards at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica. The awards are handed out by the Location Managers Guild International (Lmgi) and honor features, television and commercials for creative use of filming locations.
In addition to the competition categories, director Peter Weir was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Lmgi gave its Trailblazer Award to location manager Michael J. Meehan. Meanwhile, Hidden Empire Film Group received the Humanitarian Award for its philanthropic work across the globe.
Below is the full list of the evening’s winners.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Peter Weir
Trailblazer Award
Location Manager Michael J. Meehan
Humanitarian Award
Hidden Empire Film Group’s Deon Taylor,...
In addition to the competition categories, director Peter Weir was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Lmgi gave its Trailblazer Award to location manager Michael J. Meehan. Meanwhile, Hidden Empire Film Group received the Humanitarian Award for its philanthropic work across the globe.
Below is the full list of the evening’s winners.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Peter Weir
Trailblazer Award
Location Manager Michael J. Meehan
Humanitarian Award
Hidden Empire Film Group’s Deon Taylor,...
- 9/22/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Two major 2018 releases – actioner “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” and critics’ darling “Roma” – were honored for film location work by the Location Managers Guild International at a ceremony this evening at the Eli & Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica.
The 6th Annual Lmgi Awards also recognized “Chernobyl” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” in the television category.
The Lmgi Awards spotlight “productions in which the creative use of filming locations sets the tone, enriches the character and enhances the narrative,” per the organization.
Paramount’s “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” filmed at locations in France, the U.K., Abu Dhabi, Norway and New Zealand. Netflix’s “Roma” was shot in and around Mexico City. HBO’s “Chernobyl” derived its authentic look from locations in Lithuania, not far from Ukraine, where the nuclear disaster itself took place. And Amazon’s “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” traveled to Montreal, Morocco, France and Washington D.C.
Also at the Lmgi event,...
The 6th Annual Lmgi Awards also recognized “Chernobyl” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” in the television category.
The Lmgi Awards spotlight “productions in which the creative use of filming locations sets the tone, enriches the character and enhances the narrative,” per the organization.
Paramount’s “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” filmed at locations in France, the U.K., Abu Dhabi, Norway and New Zealand. Netflix’s “Roma” was shot in and around Mexico City. HBO’s “Chernobyl” derived its authentic look from locations in Lithuania, not far from Ukraine, where the nuclear disaster itself took place. And Amazon’s “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” traveled to Montreal, Morocco, France and Washington D.C.
Also at the Lmgi event,...
- 9/22/2019
- by Peter Caranicas
- Variety Film + TV
“Roma” and “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” have won the top film awards from the 2019 Location Managers Guild International’s Lmgi Awards, which were handed out in Los Angeles on Saturday night.
“Mission: Impossible,” which was shot in France, the U.K., Abu Dhabi, Norway and New Zealand, won in the Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Feature category. Alfonso Cuaron’s “Roma,” shot entirely in Mexico City, won for Outstanding Locations in a Period Feature.
Voting in the television categories followed suit, with the contemporary award going to an action-packed franchise, “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” and the period award going to a more contemplative work, “Chernobyl” (shot in Lithuania).
Also Read: 'Fallout' Director Christopher McQuarrie to Write, Direct Next 2 'Mission: Impossible' Films
The awards covered an unusual 17-month eligibility period, with films and television shows released between Jan. 1, 2018 and May 31, 2019 qualifying for consideration.
Director Peter Weir received the Lmgi Lifetime Achievement Award,...
“Mission: Impossible,” which was shot in France, the U.K., Abu Dhabi, Norway and New Zealand, won in the Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Feature category. Alfonso Cuaron’s “Roma,” shot entirely in Mexico City, won for Outstanding Locations in a Period Feature.
Voting in the television categories followed suit, with the contemporary award going to an action-packed franchise, “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” and the period award going to a more contemplative work, “Chernobyl” (shot in Lithuania).
Also Read: 'Fallout' Director Christopher McQuarrie to Write, Direct Next 2 'Mission: Impossible' Films
The awards covered an unusual 17-month eligibility period, with films and television shows released between Jan. 1, 2018 and May 31, 2019 qualifying for consideration.
Director Peter Weir received the Lmgi Lifetime Achievement Award,...
- 9/22/2019
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The official trailer for the upcoming Warner Bros. film “Motherless Brooklyn” written, directed by and starring Edward Norton has been released. You can view the trailer below: Director: Edward Norton Writer: Edward Norton, from the novel by Jonathan Lethem Producers: Bill Migliore, Edward Norton, Michael Bederman, Gigi Pritzker, Rachel Shane, Executive Producers: Adrian Alperovich, Sue Kroll, Daniel Nadler, Robert F. Smith, Brian Niranjan Sheth Cast: Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Bobby Cannavale, Cherry Jones, Michael Kenneth Williams, Leslie Mann, Ethan Suplee, Dallas Roberts, Josh Pais, Robert Ray Wisdom, Fisher Stevens, with Alec Baldwin and Willem Dafoe About the film: Set against the backdrop of 1950s New York, “Motherless Brooklyn” follows Lionel Essrog (Edward Norton), a lonely private detective living with Tourette Syndrome, as he ventures to solve the murder of his mentor and only friend, Frank Minna (Bruce Willis). Armed only with a few clues and the engine of his obsessive mind,...
- 8/23/2019
- by Kristyn Clarke
- Age of the Nerd
Fox Searchlight has acquired Exit 12, a documentary short that picked up the Grand Jury Award at this year’s SXSW. The pic is currently available on Fox Searchlight’s “Searchlight Shorts” Facebook page and YouTube channel. Directed by Mohammad Gorjestani, the doc follows U.S. Marine Roman Baca, who returns from the Iraq War as a broken veteran ravaged by depression, anxiety and anger. Turning to dance as a way to cope, Baca founded the Exit12 Dance Company in New York City, where other veterans and military families use dance to tell their unique stories about the personal impact of war and work to shift stereotypes of the veteran community. Erick Kwiecien produced the pic for Square, Inc. with Taylor Feltner of Even/Odd Films, while Justin Lomax and Malcolm Pullinger served as exec producers. Fox Searchlight’s Ray Strache negotiated the deal with Lomax on behalf of the filmmakers.
Hidden Empire Film Group,...
Hidden Empire Film Group,...
- 8/22/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Watch intrigue and drama unfold in the trailer for Motherless Brooklyn, starring Writer/Director Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, with Alec Baldwin and Willem Dafoe. Only in theaters November 1.
It was announced that the movie will be the closing night selection at the 57th New York Film Festival.
https://www.filmlinc.org/nyff2019/films/motherless-brooklyn/
This is Oscar/Awards season bait… for sure! We can’t wait for this one!
Lionel Essrog (Edward Norton), a lonely private detective living with Tourette Syndrome, ventures to solve the murder of his mentor and only friend, Frank Minna (Bruce Willis). Armed only with a few clues and the engine of his obsessive mind, Lionel unravels closely guarded secrets that hold the fate of New York in the balance. In a mystery that carries him from gin-soaked jazz clubs in Harlem to the hard-edged slums of Brooklyn and, finally, into the gilded halls...
It was announced that the movie will be the closing night selection at the 57th New York Film Festival.
https://www.filmlinc.org/nyff2019/films/motherless-brooklyn/
This is Oscar/Awards season bait… for sure! We can’t wait for this one!
Lionel Essrog (Edward Norton), a lonely private detective living with Tourette Syndrome, ventures to solve the murder of his mentor and only friend, Frank Minna (Bruce Willis). Armed only with a few clues and the engine of his obsessive mind, Lionel unravels closely guarded secrets that hold the fate of New York in the balance. In a mystery that carries him from gin-soaked jazz clubs in Harlem to the hard-edged slums of Brooklyn and, finally, into the gilded halls...
- 8/22/2019
- by Melissa Thompson
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Lionsgate has acquired North American and key foreign territories to Deon Taylor’s psychological thriller Fatale starring two-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank, Michael Ealy, Mike Colter, and Tyrin Turner.
Fatale centers on a married man who finds himself living a nightmare as he is relentlessly compromised, out-witted and morally manipulated by a mysterious woman with whom he had a wild one-night stand. How far will he go to save his marriage from his mistake?
Written and produced by David Loughery, the film is produced by Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group partner Roxanne Taylor and is executive produced by partner Robert F. Smith. Time-time Oscar nominee Dante Spinotti served as Dp, marking his third collaboration with Taylor on Fatale. Deadline exclusively announced Fatale last August.
Taylor was behind this past summer’s The Intruder, which grossed $37M WW off an $8M net cost before P&a.
Fatale centers on a married man who finds himself living a nightmare as he is relentlessly compromised, out-witted and morally manipulated by a mysterious woman with whom he had a wild one-night stand. How far will he go to save his marriage from his mistake?
Written and produced by David Loughery, the film is produced by Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group partner Roxanne Taylor and is executive produced by partner Robert F. Smith. Time-time Oscar nominee Dante Spinotti served as Dp, marking his third collaboration with Taylor on Fatale. Deadline exclusively announced Fatale last August.
Taylor was behind this past summer’s The Intruder, which grossed $37M WW off an $8M net cost before P&a.
- 8/22/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Lionsgate has picked up the North American and key international rights to the psychological thriller “Fatale” starring Hilary Swank and Michael Ealy, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chairman Joe Drake announced Thursday.
Mike Colter and Tyrin Turner also star in the film directed by Deon Taylor, who most recently directed the summer sleeper hit “The Intruder.”
“Fatale” follows a married man who finds himself living in a nightmare as he is manipulated by a mysterious woman after having a one-night stand with her. David Loughery wrote and produced the film. Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group partner Roxanne Taylor also produced, while Robert F. Smith executive produced.
Also Read: Hilary Swank's 'I Am Mother' Lands at Netflix
“We previously acquired Deon’s thriller ‘Traffik,’ and when Damon Wolf came to Lionsgate on the heels of working with Deon, he mentioned we should keep our eye on ‘Fatale.’ He could not have been more right.
Mike Colter and Tyrin Turner also star in the film directed by Deon Taylor, who most recently directed the summer sleeper hit “The Intruder.”
“Fatale” follows a married man who finds himself living in a nightmare as he is manipulated by a mysterious woman after having a one-night stand with her. David Loughery wrote and produced the film. Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group partner Roxanne Taylor also produced, while Robert F. Smith executive produced.
Also Read: Hilary Swank's 'I Am Mother' Lands at Netflix
“We previously acquired Deon’s thriller ‘Traffik,’ and when Damon Wolf came to Lionsgate on the heels of working with Deon, he mentioned we should keep our eye on ‘Fatale.’ He could not have been more right.
- 8/22/2019
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights today announced its 2019 Ripple of Hope laureates: U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Jk Rowling, writer of the renowned Harry Potter series and founder of the children’s charity Lumos; Wendy Abrams, environmental activist and founder of Cool Globes, Inc; and Glen Tullman, founder and executive chairman of Livongo Health.
Laureates were selected for their lifelong commitment to human rights and their exceptional work toward a more just and peaceful world.
“My father believed that each time a person stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, they send forth a tiny ripple of hope,” said Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights President Kerry Kennedy. “We are proud to honor these extraordinary laureates who have sent forth countless ripples of hope to millions of people inspired by their example.”
Kennedy will present the awards to the...
Laureates were selected for their lifelong commitment to human rights and their exceptional work toward a more just and peaceful world.
“My father believed that each time a person stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, they send forth a tiny ripple of hope,” said Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights President Kerry Kennedy. “We are proud to honor these extraordinary laureates who have sent forth countless ripples of hope to millions of people inspired by their example.”
Kennedy will present the awards to the...
- 8/14/2019
- Look to the Stars
Lena Waithe is calling on African-American movie stars to do more to support up-and-coming black filmmakers.
Waithe, who created Showtime series The Chi and wrote the script for upcoming Universal drama Queen & Slim from director Melina Matsoukas, says A-listers like Denzel Washington and Will Smith should do more to support independent movies from young black storytellers.
“You can make a very well-done independent black movie for three million bucks, and that’s a drop in the bucket for what some of these black stars make per movie,” Waithe told The New York Times writer Kyle Buchanan in a story published Friday.
During the interview about Queen & Slim — which is slated for a November release — and the future of movies, Waithe said one of the biggest challenges young black filmmakers face is securing financing. She called on successful black stars to do more to help.
“Don’t get me started on black financiers!
Waithe, who created Showtime series The Chi and wrote the script for upcoming Universal drama Queen & Slim from director Melina Matsoukas, says A-listers like Denzel Washington and Will Smith should do more to support independent movies from young black storytellers.
“You can make a very well-done independent black movie for three million bucks, and that’s a drop in the bucket for what some of these black stars make per movie,” Waithe told The New York Times writer Kyle Buchanan in a story published Friday.
During the interview about Queen & Slim — which is slated for a November release — and the future of movies, Waithe said one of the biggest challenges young black filmmakers face is securing financing. She called on successful black stars to do more to help.
“Don’t get me started on black financiers!
- 6/22/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
3:22 Pm Pt -- We're told Goldberg had the audience cracking up throughout his speech, including when he joked about the current college admissions scandal. He encouraged graduates as they walked up to get their diplomas to tip the trustees a few bucks -- or a few thousand -- if they want to get their relatives admitted ... in jest of course.Journalist Jeffrey Goldberg could have given the best speech of all time to the graduates of Johns Hopkins University,...
- 5/23/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
9:40 Pm -- The jewelers at Jadelle are producing the cufflinks for Morehouse's class of 2019 on their own, and the Smiths will not be involved. We're told Hope was contacted, but only to request a family logo Jadelle wanted to include in the design. Morehouse College's class of 2019 is getting another amazing gift to commemorate the Robert F. Smith covering their student loans -- and this one involves a Bev Hills jeweler. Sources...
- 5/20/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Al Sharpton's looking up at the scoreboard and it currently reads Robert F. Smith 1, President Trump 0 ... at least when it comes to taking care of America's crushing student debt. We got the reverend out Monday morning at Reagan National Airport in D.C. and got his take on the billionaire investor's shocking commencement speech at Morehouse College. If ya missed it, Smith told the 2019 class he was paying off All of their student loans.
- 5/20/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Philanthropist Robert F. Smith delivered a life-changing commencement speech Sunday at Morehouse College in Atlanta.
The billionaire businessman, who received an honorary degree from the historically black school, surprised the nearly 400 graduating seniors by announcing his family would provide a grant to pay off student debt for the entire Class of 2019.
“On behalf of the eight generations of my family who have been in this country, we’re gonna put a little fuel in your bus,” Smith said in a video posted on social media.
“This is my class,” he added, “and I know my class will pay this forward.”
[Video Above]
The gift to the private, all-male school is said to be worth about $40 million. It comes in addition to a $1.5 million donation Smith gave Morehouse earlier this year for scholarships and a new park.
Some students told the Atlanta Journal Constitution they were graduating with around $90,000 in debt.
Smith is a Cornell grad,...
The billionaire businessman, who received an honorary degree from the historically black school, surprised the nearly 400 graduating seniors by announcing his family would provide a grant to pay off student debt for the entire Class of 2019.
“On behalf of the eight generations of my family who have been in this country, we’re gonna put a little fuel in your bus,” Smith said in a video posted on social media.
“This is my class,” he added, “and I know my class will pay this forward.”
[Video Above]
The gift to the private, all-male school is said to be worth about $40 million. It comes in addition to a $1.5 million donation Smith gave Morehouse earlier this year for scholarships and a new park.
Some students told the Atlanta Journal Constitution they were graduating with around $90,000 in debt.
Smith is a Cornell grad,...
- 5/20/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Geoffrey Owens is on a roll. After Hollywood came to his defense when media outlets attempted to shame the former Cosby Show actor for his job as a Trader Joe’s cashier, Owen has landed yet another role, this time opposite Hilary Swank, Michael Ealy, and Mike Colter in the noir thriller Fatale, which is being directed by Deon Taylor.
David Loughery penned the screenplay, which centers on a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective (Swank).
Taylor is producing with his Hidden Empire Film Group partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith.
In addition to this film, Owens has recently been cast in Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots, and is set to guest star on NCIS: New Orleans.
Owens is repped by Semler Entertainment and Bret Adams Agency.
David Loughery penned the screenplay, which centers on a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective (Swank).
Taylor is producing with his Hidden Empire Film Group partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith.
In addition to this film, Owens has recently been cast in Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots, and is set to guest star on NCIS: New Orleans.
Owens is repped by Semler Entertainment and Bret Adams Agency.
- 9/20/2018
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Michael Ealy (“The Perfect Guy”) and Mike Colter (“Luke Cage”) will star opposite Hilary Swank in Deon Taylor’s noir thriller “Fatale,” Variety has learned exclusively.
Ealy will portray a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective, played by Swank. Colter plays Ealy’s best friend and business partner. Tyrin Turner (“Menace II Society”) has also been cast in a supporting role.
Taylor is directing “Fatale” from a script by David Loughery (“Lakeview Terrace”). He is also producing the film with his Hidden Empire Film Group partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith. Two-time Oscar nominee Dante Spinotti will be the director of photography.
The film begins shooting Monday in Los Angeles. Endeavor Content will handle worldwide sales of the film, and Avent is overseeing the production for Hidden Empire Film Group, which is fully financing the movie.
“Fatale” marks the second collaboration between Ealy and Taylor.
Ealy will portray a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective, played by Swank. Colter plays Ealy’s best friend and business partner. Tyrin Turner (“Menace II Society”) has also been cast in a supporting role.
Taylor is directing “Fatale” from a script by David Loughery (“Lakeview Terrace”). He is also producing the film with his Hidden Empire Film Group partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith. Two-time Oscar nominee Dante Spinotti will be the director of photography.
The film begins shooting Monday in Los Angeles. Endeavor Content will handle worldwide sales of the film, and Avent is overseeing the production for Hidden Empire Film Group, which is fully financing the movie.
“Fatale” marks the second collaboration between Ealy and Taylor.
- 9/17/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Inside The NBA analyst and former NBA star Kenny Smith has inked a multi-series pact with director-producer Deon Taylor (Meet The Blacks), which includes a zinger out the gate in the shape of new reality TV show Ready For The League, showcasing 2018’s hottest college basketball talent.
The pact is formally between Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group and Smith’s Seg Productions and the duo are already underway on their first show, in which Smith, one of the most respected NBA analysts around, will profile a different draft prospect in each 30-minute episode. Taylor, himself a former college player at San Diego State and later a pro in Germany, will direct.
In a similar vein to Jon Gruden’s Qb Camp series for ESPN, two-time NBA champ Smith will sit down with college stars and discuss what it takes to make it in the pro league both on and off the court.
The pact is formally between Taylor’s Hidden Empire Film Group and Smith’s Seg Productions and the duo are already underway on their first show, in which Smith, one of the most respected NBA analysts around, will profile a different draft prospect in each 30-minute episode. Taylor, himself a former college player at San Diego State and later a pro in Germany, will direct.
In a similar vein to Jon Gruden’s Qb Camp series for ESPN, two-time NBA champ Smith will sit down with college stars and discuss what it takes to make it in the pro league both on and off the court.
- 6/6/2018
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Wme has signed Deon Taylor, the writer, director and producer whose recently completed thriller Intruder was acquired for wide release in a world rights deal with Sony Screen Gems. Hidden Empire Film Group — which Taylor runs with Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith — enters into a strategic partnership with Endeavor Content, which is packaging Taylor’s next film, the noir thriller Fatale.
This comes after Endeavor Content negotiated the Screen Gems deal for Intruder, a psychological thriller about a young married couple who buy a beautiful Napa Valley home only to find that the seller (Dennis Quaid) is a lunatic who refuses to leave. Robert F. Smith financed the film.
Taylor and Hidden Empire next tackle Fatale. The psychological noir thriller was written by Intruder screenwriter David Loughery and centers on a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective.
This comes after Endeavor Content negotiated the Screen Gems deal for Intruder, a psychological thriller about a young married couple who buy a beautiful Napa Valley home only to find that the seller (Dennis Quaid) is a lunatic who refuses to leave. Robert F. Smith financed the film.
Taylor and Hidden Empire next tackle Fatale. The psychological noir thriller was written by Intruder screenwriter David Loughery and centers on a married man who is tricked into a murder scheme by a seductive female police detective.
- 6/1/2018
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Kroll & Co. Entertainment, the recently launched production company of producer Sue Kroll, has acquired the rights to Jonathan Lethem’s new novel, The Feral Detective, through her exclusive deal at Warner Bros. Pictures. The novel which will be published this November is Lethem’s first detective story since his New York Times bestseller Motherless Brooklyn, which Edward Norton is directing for the big screen with Kroll as executive producer. The Feral Detective furthers the collaborative relationship between the award-winning author and Kroll. Ecco, the imprint of HarperCollins, is the publisher of The Feral Detective.
Wme brokered the deal on behalf of Lethem and the novel. Stewart Brookman of Hansen, Jacobson negotiated on behalf of Kroll & Co.
The Feral Detective follows Phoebe Siegler, a sarcastic and garrulous woman who heads to California to try to find her best friend’s missing teenaged daughter. When a lead brings her to...
Wme brokered the deal on behalf of Lethem and the novel. Stewart Brookman of Hansen, Jacobson negotiated on behalf of Kroll & Co.
The Feral Detective follows Phoebe Siegler, a sarcastic and garrulous woman who heads to California to try to find her best friend’s missing teenaged daughter. When a lead brings her to...
- 5/30/2018
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Jonathan Lethem adaptation begins New York shoot.
Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Alec Baldwin have joined Edward Norton’s noir Motherless Brooklyn as production got underway this week.
Norton directs the Jonathan Lethem adaptation about a 1950s detective with Tourette’s and produces alongside his Class 5 partner Bill Migliore, as well as Gigi Pritzker and Rachel Shane from Mwm Studios.
Warner Bros holds worldwide distribution rights to the feature, which also stars Willem Dafoe, Cherry Jones, Ethan Suplee, and Leslie Mann.
Executive producers are Michael Bederman, Adrian Alperovich, Sue Kroll, Robert F. Smith, Brian Sheth, and Daniel Nadler.
Norton adapted the screenplay. Motherless Brooklyn marks his second feature directorial outing after 2000’s Keeping The Faith.
Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Alec Baldwin have joined Edward Norton’s noir Motherless Brooklyn as production got underway this week.
Norton directs the Jonathan Lethem adaptation about a 1950s detective with Tourette’s and produces alongside his Class 5 partner Bill Migliore, as well as Gigi Pritzker and Rachel Shane from Mwm Studios.
Warner Bros holds worldwide distribution rights to the feature, which also stars Willem Dafoe, Cherry Jones, Ethan Suplee, and Leslie Mann.
Executive producers are Michael Bederman, Adrian Alperovich, Sue Kroll, Robert F. Smith, Brian Sheth, and Daniel Nadler.
Norton adapted the screenplay. Motherless Brooklyn marks his second feature directorial outing after 2000’s Keeping The Faith.
- 2/5/2018
- by Jenn Sherman
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate's Codeblack Films has acquired the rights to the Paula Patton thriller Traffik.
Deon Taylor (Meet the Blacks) wrote and directed the feature, which also stars Omar Epps and follows a couple who travel on a romantic getaway to the mountains only to be terrorized by a vicious group of sex traffickers with whom they become locked in a desperate struggle for survival.
Taylor produced through his Hidden Empire Film Group, along with Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith, as well as Patton’s Third Eye Productions. Mark Burg of Primary Wave Entertainment acted as the executive producer.
ICM Partners negotiated the deal...
Deon Taylor (Meet the Blacks) wrote and directed the feature, which also stars Omar Epps and follows a couple who travel on a romantic getaway to the mountains only to be terrorized by a vicious group of sex traffickers with whom they become locked in a desperate struggle for survival.
Taylor produced through his Hidden Empire Film Group, along with Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith, as well as Patton’s Third Eye Productions. Mark Burg of Primary Wave Entertainment acted as the executive producer.
ICM Partners negotiated the deal...
- 9/8/2017
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Deon Taylor to direct and produce through Hidden Empire Film Group
Dennis Quaid, Michael Ealy, Meagan Good, and Joseph Sikora will star in the psychological thriller Motivated Seller for director Deon Taylor.
Taylor will direct and serve as producer through his Hidden Empire Film Group alongside producing partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith.
Mark Burg will also produce through Primary Wave Entertainment, with David Guillod, Brad Kaplan, and Jonathan Schwartz.
David Loughery (Lakeview Terrace, Obsessed) wrote the screenplay styled as a thriller in the vein of Fatal Attraction, Split and Get Out.
Motivated Seller centres on a young couple who move into their dream house in the county, unaware the previous owner who has his eyes on the house and the young woman.
“David’s script blew me away and I knew it would challenge me as a filmmaker, but the inner competitor in me likes to be tested, so I knew...
Dennis Quaid, Michael Ealy, Meagan Good, and Joseph Sikora will star in the psychological thriller Motivated Seller for director Deon Taylor.
Taylor will direct and serve as producer through his Hidden Empire Film Group alongside producing partners Roxanne Avent and Robert F. Smith.
Mark Burg will also produce through Primary Wave Entertainment, with David Guillod, Brad Kaplan, and Jonathan Schwartz.
David Loughery (Lakeview Terrace, Obsessed) wrote the screenplay styled as a thriller in the vein of Fatal Attraction, Split and Get Out.
Motivated Seller centres on a young couple who move into their dream house in the county, unaware the previous owner who has his eyes on the house and the young woman.
“David’s script blew me away and I knew it would challenge me as a filmmaker, but the inner competitor in me likes to be tested, so I knew...
- 6/20/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
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