2024 Sundance marks something of a milestone in the documentary space for XYZ Films, best known for championing global genre fare like The Raid, Mandy, and The Invitation.
On Thursday opening night the Los Angeles-based company premieres two documentaries which it produced or executive produced. After years of relatively random engagement in the non-scripted format, producing the likes of Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce’s Framing John DeLorean (2019) and Marq Evans’s 2021 Tribeca premiere Claydream (2022), the documentary division led by Tamir Ardon is in full flow, with multiple projects in the pipeline.
Jeff Zimbalist’s Skywalkers: A Love Story is...
On Thursday opening night the Los Angeles-based company premieres two documentaries which it produced or executive produced. After years of relatively random engagement in the non-scripted format, producing the likes of Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce’s Framing John DeLorean (2019) and Marq Evans’s 2021 Tribeca premiere Claydream (2022), the documentary division led by Tamir Ardon is in full flow, with multiple projects in the pipeline.
Jeff Zimbalist’s Skywalkers: A Love Story is...
- 1/18/2024
- ScreenDaily
Emmy-nominated documentarians Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, directors of the hit Prime Video doc “Kelce,” have signed with CAA for representation.
Argott and Joyce are the founders of 9.14 Pictures, a production company that specializes in feature-length documentaries and non-fiction series, with award-winning work spanning music documentaries, sports, true crime and investigative pieces. Their latest film, “Kelce,” chronicles the life and career of Philadelphia Eagles team captain Jason Kelce.
“Kelce” debuted Sept. 12 on Prime Video as the No. 1 film offered on the streaming platform. Since then, the film has become the streamer’s most-watched documentary ever in the U.S. Directed by Argott and Joyce, the film follows Kelce, the all-pro center, throughout the 2022-23 NFL season, offering an intimate look at his life on and off the field, particularly as he contemplates retirement. Kelce’s 12th season in the league was particularly momentous, as the Eagles went on a fairytale run.
Argott and Joyce are the founders of 9.14 Pictures, a production company that specializes in feature-length documentaries and non-fiction series, with award-winning work spanning music documentaries, sports, true crime and investigative pieces. Their latest film, “Kelce,” chronicles the life and career of Philadelphia Eagles team captain Jason Kelce.
“Kelce” debuted Sept. 12 on Prime Video as the No. 1 film offered on the streaming platform. Since then, the film has become the streamer’s most-watched documentary ever in the U.S. Directed by Argott and Joyce, the film follows Kelce, the all-pro center, throughout the 2022-23 NFL season, offering an intimate look at his life on and off the field, particularly as he contemplates retirement. Kelce’s 12th season in the league was particularly momentous, as the Eagles went on a fairytale run.
- 10/18/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including the Kering Foundation dinner, The Continental: From the World of John Wick special screening and W Magazine and Chanel’s Sofia Coppola Archive: 1999-2023 celebration.
Kelce premiere
Philadelphia Eagles captain Jason Kelce, wife Kylie Kelce and mother Donna Kelce were surrounded by family, friends, teammates and filmmakers to celebrate the Philadelphia premiere of Prime Video’s documentary Kelce on Sept. 8.
Producer Sheena M. Joyce, director Don Argott, Amazon head of original sports content Matt Newman, vp, Prime Video, Amazon global head of sports Jay Marine, Jason Kelce, Amazon unscripted creative executive Karin Hammerberg, Larry Platt and Connor Barwin
Estée Lauder x Highsnobiety party
Highsnobiety and Estée Lauder hosted an “All Beauty No Rest” celebration at the Hotel Chelsea on Sept. 8 to toast New York Fashion Week and Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair serum.
Kelce premiere
Philadelphia Eagles captain Jason Kelce, wife Kylie Kelce and mother Donna Kelce were surrounded by family, friends, teammates and filmmakers to celebrate the Philadelphia premiere of Prime Video’s documentary Kelce on Sept. 8.
Producer Sheena M. Joyce, director Don Argott, Amazon head of original sports content Matt Newman, vp, Prime Video, Amazon global head of sports Jay Marine, Jason Kelce, Amazon unscripted creative executive Karin Hammerberg, Larry Platt and Connor Barwin
Estée Lauder x Highsnobiety party
Highsnobiety and Estée Lauder hosted an “All Beauty No Rest” celebration at the Hotel Chelsea on Sept. 8 to toast New York Fashion Week and Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair serum.
- 9/15/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"Under the helmet." Prime Video has debuted a trailer for another sports biopic documentary titled Kelce, about the All-Pro football player Jason Kelce. This is made by NFL Films, which means it's just one big glorified commercial for the NFL, but don't skip it yet. The film is directed by award-winning doc filmmaker Don Argott, who has directed many other fantastic docs over the last 20 years: The Art of the Steal, The Atomic States of America, As the Palaces Burn, Batman & Bill, Framing John DeLorean, Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time, and Keep Sweet. Kelce is an intimate and emotional feature-length documentary film that chronicles Philadelphia Eagles team captain and All-Pro center Jason Kelce's 2022-23 season, which began with him confronting one of the most challenging decisions any professional athlete will ever face—is now the time to hang it up? The film culminates with the historic Super Bowl face-off...
- 8/25/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Amazon and Skydance on Monday unveiled Kelce, a documentary focused on Philadelphia Eagles team captain and All-Pro center Jason Kelce, which will premiere on Prime Video September 12th.
Debuting on the platform just two days ahead of Thursday Night Football‘s return, pitting the Minnesota Vikings vs. the Eagles, the film directed by 9.14 Pictures’ Don Argott specifically spotlights Kelce’s 2022-23 season, which began with him confronting one of the most challenging decisions any professional athlete will ever face — is now the time to hang it up?
After deciding to return for his 12th NFL season, Kelce embarked on a remarkable journey, highlighted by the arrival of his third daughter; the debut of his chart-topping podcast New Heights, which he co-hosts with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce; and a history-making Super Bowl appearance that placed the entire Kelce family at the center of the sports world.
Debuting on the platform just two days ahead of Thursday Night Football‘s return, pitting the Minnesota Vikings vs. the Eagles, the film directed by 9.14 Pictures’ Don Argott specifically spotlights Kelce’s 2022-23 season, which began with him confronting one of the most challenging decisions any professional athlete will ever face — is now the time to hang it up?
After deciding to return for his 12th NFL season, Kelce embarked on a remarkable journey, highlighted by the arrival of his third daughter; the debut of his chart-topping podcast New Heights, which he co-hosts with his brother, Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce; and a history-making Super Bowl appearance that placed the entire Kelce family at the center of the sports world.
- 8/14/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Showtime’s new four-part documentary Spector, focused on the spectacular rise and spectacular fall of music pioneer and convicted murderer Phil Spector, is the best possible promotion for Showtime’s four-part documentary We Need to Talk About Cosby.
It’s such a difficult tightrope to walk when you’re trying to explore a disgraced icon — not simply the separating of the art from the artist, but finding a smart way to contextualize the art within the life of the flawed person who created it.
W. Kamau Bell’s conversation starter about Bill Cosby handled this task exceptionally. It isn’t aesthetically dynamic, but We Need to Talk About Cosby is smart and challenging at every turn, forcing viewers to ponder inextricable linkages between aspects of Cosby’s career and a personal life that has seen him accused of sexual misconduct by 50+ women. The...
Showtime’s new four-part documentary Spector, focused on the spectacular rise and spectacular fall of music pioneer and convicted murderer Phil Spector, is the best possible promotion for Showtime’s four-part documentary We Need to Talk About Cosby.
It’s such a difficult tightrope to walk when you’re trying to explore a disgraced icon — not simply the separating of the art from the artist, but finding a smart way to contextualize the art within the life of the flawed person who created it.
W. Kamau Bell’s conversation starter about Bill Cosby handled this task exceptionally. It isn’t aesthetically dynamic, but We Need to Talk About Cosby is smart and challenging at every turn, forcing viewers to ponder inextricable linkages between aspects of Cosby’s career and a personal life that has seen him accused of sexual misconduct by 50+ women. The...
- 11/5/2022
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There are several moments throughout Showtime’s four-part docuseries on music producer Phil Spector that could frustrate audience members — and they all revolve around how we talk about Spector. In case you need a refresher: Phil Spector is an integral element in the creation of pop music. His “Wall of Sound” method of production resulted in some of the biggest hits of the ’50s and ’60s, including The Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling.” Spector also was convicted of murdering actress Lana Clarkson and was serving 19 years to life in prison before his death from Covid in 2021.
So on the one hand, musical genius. On the other, murderer. Where do the two halves meet? Can they ever? It’s a trend we’ve seen explored in documentaries like 2019’s “Leaving Neverland” and W. Kamau Bell’s “We Need to Talk About Cosby” earlier this year. In fact, Bell...
So on the one hand, musical genius. On the other, murderer. Where do the two halves meet? Can they ever? It’s a trend we’ve seen explored in documentaries like 2019’s “Leaving Neverland” and W. Kamau Bell’s “We Need to Talk About Cosby” earlier this year. In fact, Bell...
- 11/4/2022
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
Spector, the new, four-part documentary premiering on Showtime on November 4th, is unique among music docs: It’s part true-crime narrative, part monumentally lurid Behind the Music. Directed by Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, it takes us through the well-documented story of how Phil Spector went from iconic and contentious record producer to convicted murderer.
The tale is still both familiar and queasy. After he’d made booming, cathartic pop symphonies like the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby,” the Crystals’ “Then He Kissed Me” and the Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve...
The tale is still both familiar and queasy. After he’d made booming, cathartic pop symphonies like the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby,” the Crystals’ “Then He Kissed Me” and the Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve...
- 11/4/2022
- by David Browne
- Rollingstone.com
‘Spector’ Examines the Life and Crime of Phil Spector, and Reclaims Lana Clarkson’s Story: TV Review
The pop hits of Phil Spector — and there are many of them — depend on a theatrical maximalism. As a producer, Spector’s innovation was the “Wall of Sound,” a shock-and-awe approach to music that is as dazzling as it is overwhelming. Just listen to the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby” or Ike & Tina Turner’s “River Deep — Mountain High” to understand his approach: The songs are so densely orchestrated that they’re practically tactile.
Spector’s reputation today is, rightly, more rooted in the events of his life than in the art he made. But “Spector,” a four-part documentary series on Showtime directed by Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, works to make a case that his music — its particular qualities and the stressful process by which it was made — helps explain the man.
Like many artists, Spector drew from life; his first hit, the Teddy Bears’ “To Know Him Is to Love Him,...
Spector’s reputation today is, rightly, more rooted in the events of his life than in the art he made. But “Spector,” a four-part documentary series on Showtime directed by Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, works to make a case that his music — its particular qualities and the stressful process by which it was made — helps explain the man.
Like many artists, Spector drew from life; his first hit, the Teddy Bears’ “To Know Him Is to Love Him,...
- 11/3/2022
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
Showtime Documentary Films has announced that their network will launch the four-part documentary series "Spector" on November 4, 2022. The docuseries follows the story of the legendary music producer Phil Spector and explores his life and downfall — the events of February 3, 2003, that led to his murder conviction. The producer was arrested for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson in his mansion and was charged with second-degree murder and sentenced to 19 years in prison. Eligible for parole in 2024, Spector died last year at the age of 81, and the titular series will depict both the lives of Clarkson and the man sentenced for her murder.
A chilling trailer for the docuseries has been released. "Spector" comes from an award-winning crew, and there's much information about the show at our disposal. Here's all you need to know about the Showtime docuseries.
What Is Spector About?
"Spector" will examine the life of Phil Spector and his...
A chilling trailer for the docuseries has been released. "Spector" comes from an award-winning crew, and there's much information about the show at our disposal. Here's all you need to know about the Showtime docuseries.
What Is Spector About?
"Spector" will examine the life of Phil Spector and his...
- 9/29/2022
- by Fatemeh Mirjalili
- Slash Film
Showtime Documentary Films has announced that the network will air Spector, a four-part documentary series produced by Lightbox from directors Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott about enigmatic, legendary music producer Phil Spector and what happened on the fateful night of February 3, 2003 when actress Lana Clarkson was shot dead in his mansion. All four episodes of the docuseries will release on demand and on streaming platforms for Showtime subscribers on Friday, November 4, ahead of its on-air premiere on Sunday, November 6 at 9 p.m. Et/Pt. Spector is executive produced by Oscar-nominated producer Jonathan Chinn and Oscar-winning producer Simon Chinn and Oscar-winning director James Marsh. Stephen Neely also serves as executive producer and Janet Ginsburg produces. Spector examines how the destinies of Phil Spector and Lana Clarkson became intertwined with the report of a fatal shooting of a woman at the eccentric French chateau style mansion in Los Angeles owned by the legendary music producer.
- 9/27/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Showtime is targeting a November release for its Phil Spector docuseries and has unveiled a trailer that highlights the guns and mayhem surrounding the legendary and controversial record producer.
The premium cabler is launching four-part series Spector, which is a co-production with British pay-tv broadcaster Sky on November 4.
The series will look at what happened on the fateful night of February 3, 2003 when actress Lana Clarkson was shot dead in his mansion. The victim was a charismatic and once prolific film actress whom Spector had met just that night. Through the lens of this notorious crime and the infamous trial which followed, the explores the stories of both Clarkson and the man who was convicted of her murder.
It comes from Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, the co-directors of Framing John Delorean, Searching for Sugar Man producer Simon Chinn and Tina producer Jonathan Chinn and director James Marsh, who helmed...
The premium cabler is launching four-part series Spector, which is a co-production with British pay-tv broadcaster Sky on November 4.
The series will look at what happened on the fateful night of February 3, 2003 when actress Lana Clarkson was shot dead in his mansion. The victim was a charismatic and once prolific film actress whom Spector had met just that night. Through the lens of this notorious crime and the infamous trial which followed, the explores the stories of both Clarkson and the man who was convicted of her murder.
It comes from Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, the co-directors of Framing John Delorean, Searching for Sugar Man producer Simon Chinn and Tina producer Jonathan Chinn and director James Marsh, who helmed...
- 9/27/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
A new four-part docuseries about Phil Spector and the murder of Lana Clarkson is set to premiere on Showtime this November.
Directed by Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, Spector will largely center around the night of Feb. 3, 2003, when Spector shot and killed Clarkson — an actress he’d just met that night — in his mansion. He was convicted of murder in 2009 and sentenced to 19 years in prison; he died in a prison hospital in 2021.
A new trailer for Spector suggests the docuseries will strike a balance between true crime and music doc,...
Directed by Sheena M. Joyce and Don Argott, Spector will largely center around the night of Feb. 3, 2003, when Spector shot and killed Clarkson — an actress he’d just met that night — in his mansion. He was convicted of murder in 2009 and sentenced to 19 years in prison; he died in a prison hospital in 2021.
A new trailer for Spector suggests the docuseries will strike a balance between true crime and music doc,...
- 9/27/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Sky has greenlit documentaries on England World Cup winner Geoff Hurst, serial killer Fred West and music producer Phil Spector. Scroll down for the full slate below.
The shows come on a seven-strong slate at the Edinburgh Television Festival, which also includes Whales with Steve Backshall, a follow-up to the nature presenter’s Shark series, along with Secret World of Sound [working title] about animal behavior.
Intrusion: Stasi Fc uses personal testimony from survivors and an extensive archive to tell the compelling story of how The Stasi, East Germany’s secret service, abused football to destabilize the last oasis of free speech in the country, meanwhile. Finally, The Good Fight Club will follow a dynamic, young team of mixed martial arts fighters from South East London in training.
The slate, which is led by Matthew Lorenzo Productions’ Hurst: The First and Only, telling off the life of the man who scored a...
The shows come on a seven-strong slate at the Edinburgh Television Festival, which also includes Whales with Steve Backshall, a follow-up to the nature presenter’s Shark series, along with Secret World of Sound [working title] about animal behavior.
Intrusion: Stasi Fc uses personal testimony from survivors and an extensive archive to tell the compelling story of how The Stasi, East Germany’s secret service, abused football to destabilize the last oasis of free speech in the country, meanwhile. Finally, The Good Fight Club will follow a dynamic, young team of mixed martial arts fighters from South East London in training.
The slate, which is led by Matthew Lorenzo Productions’ Hurst: The First and Only, telling off the life of the man who scored a...
- 8/25/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Ronnie James Dio helps director Don Coscarelli craft the classic “Last in Line” music video in a new clip from the upcoming documentary, Dio: Dreamers Never Die. The film will get a special two-night theatrical run on Sept. 28 and Oct. 2.
In the clip, Coscarelli explains hearing “Last in Line” for the first time and bringing Dio an original idea centered around a simple notion: “teenagers in hell.” Coscarelli credited Dio with giving the premise some added depth: “He basically told me, ‘From birth to death, we’re all in a line,...
In the clip, Coscarelli explains hearing “Last in Line” for the first time and bringing Dio an original idea centered around a simple notion: “teenagers in hell.” Coscarelli credited Dio with giving the premise some added depth: “He basically told me, ‘From birth to death, we’re all in a line,...
- 8/18/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Acquisition
Factual content specialist Zinc Media Group has fundraised £5 million (6.1 million) and is using £2.1 million of it towards acquiring award-winning production company The Edge Picture Company, which operates from its bases in London, Doha, Vancouver and Paris. The rest of the cash will be invested in talent, potential IP, and in future acquisitions and collaborations. The Edge’s clients include Amazon, BT Group and FIFA.
The Edge joins Zinc Media Group at the end of August, subject to approval by Zinc shareholders. The Edge will continue to operate in line with other companies wholly owned by Zinc Media Group and it will continue to be run by the same management team, but benefit from the opportunities presented by being part of an enlarged organisation.
Zinc’s TV business includes the labels current affairs, contemporary history and investigations focused Brook Lapping, which was recently commissioned for “Tom Daley: Illegal To Be Me,...
Factual content specialist Zinc Media Group has fundraised £5 million (6.1 million) and is using £2.1 million of it towards acquiring award-winning production company The Edge Picture Company, which operates from its bases in London, Doha, Vancouver and Paris. The rest of the cash will be invested in talent, potential IP, and in future acquisitions and collaborations. The Edge’s clients include Amazon, BT Group and FIFA.
The Edge joins Zinc Media Group at the end of August, subject to approval by Zinc shareholders. The Edge will continue to operate in line with other companies wholly owned by Zinc Media Group and it will continue to be run by the same management team, but benefit from the opportunities presented by being part of an enlarged organisation.
Zinc’s TV business includes the labels current affairs, contemporary history and investigations focused Brook Lapping, which was recently commissioned for “Tom Daley: Illegal To Be Me,...
- 8/3/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The “Bridgerton” literary universe is expanding. Original series writer Julia Quinn and Shonda Rhimes, the executive producer of the romance series’ Netflix adaptation, are set to cowrite a new prequel novel set in the world of “Bridgerton.”
Currently untitled, the new book series is based on the universe of the TV series, and is an adaptation of the upcoming Netflix “Bridgerton” spinoff about a young Queen Charlotte. The book will tell the story of how Charlotte met and married King George, with a focus on how their love lead to a social shift that created the racially inclusive world seen in the television series.
“Queen Charlotte has been such a moving character to write and now having the opportunity to work with Julia to adapt this story into a book is such an exciting opportunity,” Rhimes said in a statement. “I can’t wait for fans of this universe to...
Currently untitled, the new book series is based on the universe of the TV series, and is an adaptation of the upcoming Netflix “Bridgerton” spinoff about a young Queen Charlotte. The book will tell the story of how Charlotte met and married King George, with a focus on how their love lead to a social shift that created the racially inclusive world seen in the television series.
“Queen Charlotte has been such a moving character to write and now having the opportunity to work with Julia to adapt this story into a book is such an exciting opportunity,” Rhimes said in a statement. “I can’t wait for fans of this universe to...
- 7/7/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Matthew Baskharoon is joining United Talent Agency as an agent in the unscripted TV department. Based in the Los Angeles office, Baskharoon will work alongside UTA Partner Darnell Strom and the culture & leadership division.
“Matthew is not only a terrific agent but also an incredible human, said Matt Rice, UTA head of TV and board member, said in a statement. “His clients and colleagues adore him because he leads with his taste and his heart. We are excited to welcome him to the UTA family and know he will further elevate our business and culture.”
“UTA has established themselves as a company willing to disrupt and go against the grain,” added Baskharoon in a statement. “Their culture promotes innovation and entrepreneurship and I look forward to leveraging everything the company has to offer to service my diverse roster of clients.”
Baskharoon comes from WME where he worked in the non-scripted...
“Matthew is not only a terrific agent but also an incredible human, said Matt Rice, UTA head of TV and board member, said in a statement. “His clients and colleagues adore him because he leads with his taste and his heart. We are excited to welcome him to the UTA family and know he will further elevate our business and culture.”
“UTA has established themselves as a company willing to disrupt and go against the grain,” added Baskharoon in a statement. “Their culture promotes innovation and entrepreneurship and I look forward to leveraging everything the company has to offer to service my diverse roster of clients.”
Baskharoon comes from WME where he worked in the non-scripted...
- 3/30/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
In music’s metal subculture, the late singer Ronnie James Dio may still count as the genre’s most widely beloved figure, which makes him ripe for a documentary. He was almost completely uncontroversial, which doesn’t necessarily bode as well for such a treatment. The dude who popularized the so-called “devil horns” hand gesture was no demon. He just played one on MTV, or at least enjoyed dragging out the sinister imagery, even if in in real life he came off as a friendly upstate New York guy who’d made it big with a penchant for vaguely mystic imagery and a mountain-king-sized voice that could fill the biggest halls.
“Dio: Dreamers Never Die,” the latest in a series of effective, mostly unpretentious rock docs produced by BMG, doesn’t present its subject as a particularly tortured or even complicated guy. It may be the most drugless documentary ever...
“Dio: Dreamers Never Die,” the latest in a series of effective, mostly unpretentious rock docs produced by BMG, doesn’t present its subject as a particularly tortured or even complicated guy. It may be the most drugless documentary ever...
- 3/24/2022
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
Sheryl Crow, Nick Cave, King Crimson, Dio, XXXTentacion, Tanya Tucker, Chumbawamba, Courtney Barnett, Cesária Évora and Mojo Nixon — together again for the first time: These are some of the highly diverse subjects of a slate of music documentaries set to unspool at the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin March 11-20.
The 16 movies represented in the “24 Beats Per Second” lineup are nearly all world premieres, in a film festival that skews toward SXSW’s original roots as a pure music festival by always carving out a special category for features that chronicle musicians or music scenes.
The music doc coming into the festival with probably the highest level of fan anticipation is , which promises to have director Sabaah Folayan offering “a sensitive portrayal” of a precocious, highly controversial, Soundcloud-based rapper “whose acts of violence, raw musical talent and open struggles with mental health left an indelible mark on...
The 16 movies represented in the “24 Beats Per Second” lineup are nearly all world premieres, in a film festival that skews toward SXSW’s original roots as a pure music festival by always carving out a special category for features that chronicle musicians or music scenes.
The music doc coming into the festival with probably the highest level of fan anticipation is , which promises to have director Sabaah Folayan offering “a sensitive portrayal” of a precocious, highly controversial, Soundcloud-based rapper “whose acts of violence, raw musical talent and open struggles with mental health left an indelible mark on...
- 2/3/2022
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
When Hulu first entered the streaming game, it was mostly viewed as the place where you streamed television you missed last night. Whether it was the latest episode of “The Simpsons” or an investigative report on “20/20”, Hulu was the hub for television shows. Years later, it still remains that hub considering how many new and old TV shows you can stream. But just like every streaming platform, it has grown to have more of its own original media. While it has become known for exclusive TV series, they do also have a fine selection of original movies. Here are five of the best original new movies that you can stream on Hulu right now:
"Batman & Bill"
If you ask most people who created ‘Batman’, they’ll usually say Bob Kane. The truth, however, is that Bill Finger played a heavier role in the creation of Batman than Kane. And...
"Batman & Bill"
If you ask most people who created ‘Batman’, they’ll usually say Bob Kane. The truth, however, is that Bill Finger played a heavier role in the creation of Batman than Kane. And...
- 1/28/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Keep Sweet director Don Argott with executive producer Glenn Meehan: “Ultimately we all have to figure out how to exist together and this small town is a microcosm of the whole country, in my mind.”
Keep Sweet director Don Argott and executive producer Glenn Meehan discuss with me in great detail the journey they ended up taking together that started for Glenn in 2005 after he read an article with the title The Lost Boys.
Lori Barlow with her family in Keep Sweet Photo: 44 Blue Productions, courtesy of discovery+
A place meant to be a utopia, perhaps in the sense of the word’s original meaning as “no place,” is nestled in the twin towns of Hildale, Utah and Colorado City, Arizona. Fundamentalist Mormons settled there in an attempt to create a community that followed their strict standards. “Plural marriage” is how polygamy is called by the followers. It was...
Keep Sweet director Don Argott and executive producer Glenn Meehan discuss with me in great detail the journey they ended up taking together that started for Glenn in 2005 after he read an article with the title The Lost Boys.
Lori Barlow with her family in Keep Sweet Photo: 44 Blue Productions, courtesy of discovery+
A place meant to be a utopia, perhaps in the sense of the word’s original meaning as “no place,” is nestled in the twin towns of Hildale, Utah and Colorado City, Arizona. Fundamentalist Mormons settled there in an attempt to create a community that followed their strict standards. “Plural marriage” is how polygamy is called by the followers. It was...
- 12/16/2021
- by Anne-Katrin Titze
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
ViacomCBS announced the five participants for its 2021-2022 Directors Initiative: Julie Herlocker, Bao Tran, Joy T. Lane, Pat Santana and Steven J. Kung.
The initiative provides a platform for experienced directors to gain access to showrunners, executives, managers and agents as well as the opportunity to shadow CBS Television Network and CBS Studio shows throughout the year. The program helps directors develop relationships with industry professionals, networks that are essential to finding work in the field. In its 18th year, the program will guarantee all participants of the initiative an episode of television to direct on the CBS Television Network.
“The ViacomCBS Directors Initiative gives television directors the access, exposure and opportunity to be successful in this industry,” said Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i, executive vice president of entertainment diversity and inclusion and global inclusion at ViacomCBS. “Last year’s participant, Morenike Joela Evans, has recently helmed the ‘iCarly’ reboot for Paramount Plus...
The initiative provides a platform for experienced directors to gain access to showrunners, executives, managers and agents as well as the opportunity to shadow CBS Television Network and CBS Studio shows throughout the year. The program helps directors develop relationships with industry professionals, networks that are essential to finding work in the field. In its 18th year, the program will guarantee all participants of the initiative an episode of television to direct on the CBS Television Network.
“The ViacomCBS Directors Initiative gives television directors the access, exposure and opportunity to be successful in this industry,” said Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i, executive vice president of entertainment diversity and inclusion and global inclusion at ViacomCBS. “Last year’s participant, Morenike Joela Evans, has recently helmed the ‘iCarly’ reboot for Paramount Plus...
- 12/15/2021
- by Katie Song and Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Slugfest, the Russo Brothers-exec produced docuseries about the rivalry between comic book companies Marvel and DC, is finally coming to air.
The ten-part series, which is narrated by Kevin Smith, is coming to Roku on December 24 and the streamer has unveiled the first trailer, which you can watch above.
It comes as the series, which was originally commissioned by Quibi in November 2019, was set to launch on the short-form service last year but the Jeffrey Katzenberg-led platform shut down before it could.
The docuseries is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC and will include a history of the rivalry via interviews and re-enactments. Each episode dives into the unique story from the companies rich and intermingled history that’s created a world-wide superhero phenomenon.
Slugfest, which was created in partnership with Agbo, is executive produced by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo.
The ten-part series, which is narrated by Kevin Smith, is coming to Roku on December 24 and the streamer has unveiled the first trailer, which you can watch above.
It comes as the series, which was originally commissioned by Quibi in November 2019, was set to launch on the short-form service last year but the Jeffrey Katzenberg-led platform shut down before it could.
The docuseries is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC and will include a history of the rivalry via interviews and re-enactments. Each episode dives into the unique story from the companies rich and intermingled history that’s created a world-wide superhero phenomenon.
Slugfest, which was created in partnership with Agbo, is executive produced by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo.
- 12/15/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
C’mon C’mon from A24 turned in the best per-screen average for a limited platform release since Covid at five theater in New York and LA as stellar critical response was met by strong exit polls ahead of a wider rollout into top markets over Thanksgiving and continued expansion thereafter.
The Mike Mills’ awards contender led by Phoenix and newcomer Woody Norman posted a PSA of $26,889, grossing $134,447. It was the distributor’s first attempt at a platform release since First Cow early last March into the teeth of Covid. Per screen numbers aren’t apples to apples — Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch did about $25K in ten times the locations (52) when it opened Oct. 22. But this is another twinkle in a sluggish specialty market whose key older demos are slow to return to theaters. That reluctance coupled with (exacerbated by?) early availability on streaming/on demand saw many...
The Mike Mills’ awards contender led by Phoenix and newcomer Woody Norman posted a PSA of $26,889, grossing $134,447. It was the distributor’s first attempt at a platform release since First Cow early last March into the teeth of Covid. Per screen numbers aren’t apples to apples — Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch did about $25K in ten times the locations (52) when it opened Oct. 22. But this is another twinkle in a sluggish specialty market whose key older demos are slow to return to theaters. That reluctance coupled with (exacerbated by?) early availability on streaming/on demand saw many...
- 11/21/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
There’s a good reason why so much of Robert B. Weide and Don Argott’s “Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time” is spent explaining why and how the film came to be: This is a biographical documentary aimed at people who love Vonnegut’s books, but people who love Vonnegut’s books have already read about the key points of his biography. Not only do they bleed through the bindings of “Slaughterhouse-Five” as if his wounds were still fresh, they’re also smudged across the most dog-eared pages of novels like “Player Piano,” “Breakfast of Champions,” and “Timequake” (the last of which even interrogates his creative process in its own playful way).
Vonnegut’s writing laughs at our place in the stars by seeing it through the pinhole of personal experience, and his readers can’t have their minds blown by the cosmic adventures of characters like Billy Pilgrim and...
Vonnegut’s writing laughs at our place in the stars by seeing it through the pinhole of personal experience, and his readers can’t have their minds blown by the cosmic adventures of characters like Billy Pilgrim and...
- 11/19/2021
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
“Listen” a voiceover says as a puff of smoke fills a black screen. Borrowed from the first chapter of Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s most well-known novel ‘Slaughterhouse-Five’, Robert B. Weide and Don Argott’s documentary ‘Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time’ is well versed in the iconography of its subject. Unfortunately, the film lacks the author’s witty creativity. The voiceover continues, “we don’t understand the first thing about time.” What follows is a mostly linear greatest hits look at the life and work of one of the 20th century’s most unique literary voices.
Continue reading ‘Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time’ Review: The Well-Versed Documentary Lacks The Subject’s Witty Creativity at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time’ Review: The Well-Versed Documentary Lacks The Subject’s Witty Creativity at The Playlist.
- 11/19/2021
- by Marya E. Gates
- The Playlist
Doc NYC Artistic Director Thom Powers on Mel Brooks in the Special Event screening of Lisa Hurwitz’s The Automat: “This is a real New Yorker’s film.”
In the final instalment with Doc NYC Artistic Director Thom Powers, we discuss a number of the films that are screening in the 12th edition of Doc NYC. I start with Marc Shaffer’s Exposing Muybridge which has comments from Eadweard Muybridge admirer Gary Oldman; Tom Donahue’s Dean Martin: King Of Cool; Alessandro Rossellini’s The Rossellinis; Andrea Arnold’s Cow; Vincent Liota’s Objects; Eva Orner’s Burning; Abby Epstein’s The Business Of Birth Control; Mads Brügger’s The Mole; Robert B Weide and Don Argott’s Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time; Peter Middleton and James Spinney’s The Real Charlie Chaplin; Lisa Hurwitz’s The Automat As A Special Event, and end with the Closing Night selection,...
In the final instalment with Doc NYC Artistic Director Thom Powers, we discuss a number of the films that are screening in the 12th edition of Doc NYC. I start with Marc Shaffer’s Exposing Muybridge which has comments from Eadweard Muybridge admirer Gary Oldman; Tom Donahue’s Dean Martin: King Of Cool; Alessandro Rossellini’s The Rossellinis; Andrea Arnold’s Cow; Vincent Liota’s Objects; Eva Orner’s Burning; Abby Epstein’s The Business Of Birth Control; Mads Brügger’s The Mole; Robert B Weide and Don Argott’s Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time; Peter Middleton and James Spinney’s The Real Charlie Chaplin; Lisa Hurwitz’s The Automat As A Special Event, and end with the Closing Night selection,...
- 11/15/2021
- by Anne-Katrin Titze
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Exclusive: Discovery+ is ramping up its feature doc slate with a range of new titles including a documentary about Michael Brody Jr., a hippie-millionaire and heir to a margarine fortune who publicly offered his $25-million inheritance to anyone in need in 1970.
The streamer has acquired the rights to Dear Mr. Brody, which is directed by Keith Maitland (Tower) and was an official selection at the Telluride Film Festival, as well as screening at SXSW and Tribeca Festival.
It has also picked up feature docs Set!, Dead Man’s Switch and Keep Sweet.
Dear Mr. Brody, which will be released theatrically by Greenwich Entertainment ahead of its streaming bow, will launch in winter 2022. It follows the complex story of Brody, who announced that he would be giving away his fortune in 1970. He and his wife became instant celebrities and they were mobbed by the public, scrutinized by the press, and overwhelmed...
The streamer has acquired the rights to Dear Mr. Brody, which is directed by Keith Maitland (Tower) and was an official selection at the Telluride Film Festival, as well as screening at SXSW and Tribeca Festival.
It has also picked up feature docs Set!, Dead Man’s Switch and Keep Sweet.
Dear Mr. Brody, which will be released theatrically by Greenwich Entertainment ahead of its streaming bow, will launch in winter 2022. It follows the complex story of Brody, who announced that he would be giving away his fortune in 1970. He and his wife became instant celebrities and they were mobbed by the public, scrutinized by the press, and overwhelmed...
- 10/1/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Hamptons Intl. Film Festival will open with the world premiere of Matthew Heineman’s “The First Wave” on Oct. 7 and buzzy titles including Pablo Larrain’s “Spencer” as the Saturday centerpiece film and Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog” in the additional spotlight selection. The in-person festival ends Oct. 13 with Wes Anderson’s “French Dispatch.” The festival takes place in the Hamptons on the Eastern End of Long Island, N.Y. from Oct. 7-13. Masks and proof of vaccination are required in theaters.
Spotlight Titles
Newly announced Spotlight titles include the East Coast premiere of Joe Wright’s “Cyrano,” Maggie Gyllenhaal’s directorial feature debut of “The Lost Daughter,” Academy Award-winning director Pedro Almodóvar’s “Parallel Mothers,” Rebecca Hall’s directorial debut “Passing” and Campion’s “The Power of the Dog.”
Signature Programs
As part of the Signature Programs, the Conflict and Resolution section will include Jonas Poher Rasmussen’s “Flee,...
Spotlight Titles
Newly announced Spotlight titles include the East Coast premiere of Joe Wright’s “Cyrano,” Maggie Gyllenhaal’s directorial feature debut of “The Lost Daughter,” Academy Award-winning director Pedro Almodóvar’s “Parallel Mothers,” Rebecca Hall’s directorial debut “Passing” and Campion’s “The Power of the Dog.”
Signature Programs
As part of the Signature Programs, the Conflict and Resolution section will include Jonas Poher Rasmussen’s “Flee,...
- 9/15/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma
- Variety Film + TV
Nearly 40 years after Robert B. Weide wrote a letter to Kurt Vonnegut asking for permission to make a documentary, Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time will finally see its release in summer 2021.
Co-directed by Don Argott, the film captures two decades of footage shot between 1988 and 2007, when Vonnegut died at the age of 84. It documents the author’s life, covering his childhood in Indianapolis, being a Prisoner of War in World War II, his personal life, and eventual success as a writer in 1969 with the release of Slaughterhouse-Five.
The 40-second teaser...
Co-directed by Don Argott, the film captures two decades of footage shot between 1988 and 2007, when Vonnegut died at the age of 84. It documents the author’s life, covering his childhood in Indianapolis, being a Prisoner of War in World War II, his personal life, and eventual success as a writer in 1969 with the release of Slaughterhouse-Five.
The 40-second teaser...
- 11/11/2020
- by Angie Martoccio
- Rollingstone.com
IFC Films has acquired a documentary film about legendary novelist and humorist Kurt Vonnegut that’s been in the works for 39 years. The indie distributor, which will release “Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time” in summer 2021, also released a teaser with the “Slaughterhouse-Five” author’s voice.
Robert B. Weide, best known as a director on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” directed the film with Don Argott (“The Art of the Steal),” and it traces Vonnegut’s life and Weide and Vonnegut’s close friendship together up until the author’s death in 2007 at age 84.
“Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time” is a rare portrait of the author that dives into his upbringing and creative output, and the film includes footage and interviews Weide began shooting of Vonnegut as far back as 1988, well before they had plans for a film or any idea how close their friendship would become.
In the clip above,...
Robert B. Weide, best known as a director on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” directed the film with Don Argott (“The Art of the Steal),” and it traces Vonnegut’s life and Weide and Vonnegut’s close friendship together up until the author’s death in 2007 at age 84.
“Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck In Time” is a rare portrait of the author that dives into his upbringing and creative output, and the film includes footage and interviews Weide began shooting of Vonnegut as far back as 1988, well before they had plans for a film or any idea how close their friendship would become.
In the clip above,...
- 11/11/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
IFC Films is acquiring the North American rights to the documentary “Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time” with plans for a release in the summer of 2021.
The deal was announced Wednesday to coincide with Vonnegut’s 98th birthday. IFC also released a teaser video for “Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time,” containing a voicemail left by Vonnegut himself to the co-director of the film, Robert B. Weide.
“When I first approached Vonnegut to authorize this film in 1982, I envisioned a fairly conventional author documentary,” Weide said. “As the decades rolled by, fate stepped in, and what I wound up with was far from conventional. As my friendship with my literary idol grew, full disclosure was called for, and Don Argott came on to document the meta element of this story, as I continued to focus on Vonnegut’s biography. What we wound up with was a hybrid that combined our respective strengths...
The deal was announced Wednesday to coincide with Vonnegut’s 98th birthday. IFC also released a teaser video for “Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time,” containing a voicemail left by Vonnegut himself to the co-director of the film, Robert B. Weide.
“When I first approached Vonnegut to authorize this film in 1982, I envisioned a fairly conventional author documentary,” Weide said. “As the decades rolled by, fate stepped in, and what I wound up with was far from conventional. As my friendship with my literary idol grew, full disclosure was called for, and Don Argott came on to document the meta element of this story, as I continued to focus on Vonnegut’s biography. What we wound up with was a hybrid that combined our respective strengths...
- 11/11/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
IFC Films has scooped up the North American rights to Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time, the documentary about the life and career of legendary novelist by directors Robert B. Weide and Don Argott.
Vonnegut, who died in 2007 at age 84, became renowned for novels like the Slaughterhouse-Five, Cat’s Cradle and Breakfast of Champions. His novels, short stories, essays and plays were filled with humor, social commentary, science fiction and autobiography.
IFC Films plans a summer 2021 release for the long-gestating feature documentary that has 32-year-old footage that the Oscar-nominated Weide captured of Vonnegut through their long friendship.
“IFC Films has ...
Vonnegut, who died in 2007 at age 84, became renowned for novels like the Slaughterhouse-Five, Cat’s Cradle and Breakfast of Champions. His novels, short stories, essays and plays were filled with humor, social commentary, science fiction and autobiography.
IFC Films plans a summer 2021 release for the long-gestating feature documentary that has 32-year-old footage that the Oscar-nominated Weide captured of Vonnegut through their long friendship.
“IFC Films has ...
- 11/11/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
IFC Films has scooped up the North American rights to Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time, the documentary about the life and career of legendary novelist by directors Robert B. Weide and Don Argott.
Vonnegut, who died in 2007 at age 84, became renowned for novels like the Slaughterhouse-Five, Cat’s Cradle and Breakfast of Champions. His novels, short stories, essays and plays were filled with humor, social commentary, science fiction and autobiography.
IFC Films plans a summer 2021 release for the long-gestating feature documentary that has 32-year-old footage that the Oscar-nominated Weide captured of Vonnegut through their long friendship.
“IFC Films has ...
Vonnegut, who died in 2007 at age 84, became renowned for novels like the Slaughterhouse-Five, Cat’s Cradle and Breakfast of Champions. His novels, short stories, essays and plays were filled with humor, social commentary, science fiction and autobiography.
IFC Films plans a summer 2021 release for the long-gestating feature documentary that has 32-year-old footage that the Oscar-nominated Weide captured of Vonnegut through their long friendship.
“IFC Films has ...
- 11/11/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 review contains spoilers.
Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 comes back even more serious than the first volume. The theme music may have a new arrangement which forebodes horrifying tales, but the telling has become even further removed from the overwrought drama of the original series which aired from 1987 to 2010. I have to admit, I miss the cheese of the gravelly melodrama which host Robert Stack exposed from under his raincoat. The crimes are exactly as promised, they are mysterious and open. But the Netflix series is almost too forensic in its unraveling, and it doesn’t even rely too much on the science itself.
The six new episodes profile fantastically mysterious happenings and tragic events in the hope a viewer holds the key to solving the cases. Viewers have also been calling tips into the Unsolved.com website. The first volume episode investigating the death of...
Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 comes back even more serious than the first volume. The theme music may have a new arrangement which forebodes horrifying tales, but the telling has become even further removed from the overwrought drama of the original series which aired from 1987 to 2010. I have to admit, I miss the cheese of the gravelly melodrama which host Robert Stack exposed from under his raincoat. The crimes are exactly as promised, they are mysterious and open. But the Netflix series is almost too forensic in its unraveling, and it doesn’t even rely too much on the science itself.
The six new episodes profile fantastically mysterious happenings and tragic events in the hope a viewer holds the key to solving the cases. Viewers have also been calling tips into the Unsolved.com website. The first volume episode investigating the death of...
- 10/19/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Avengers: Endgame and Marvel Studios auteurs Joe & Anthony Russo, Slugfest directors Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow alum Brandon Routh as well as comic book pioneers Jenette Kahn and Jim Starlin took the virtual dais and New York Comic-Con with fanboy godfather Kevin Smith on Thursday afternoon to talk about the upcoming Quibi series which details the complex history (or some may say rivalry) between DC Comics and Marvel. They revealed plenty of details about the new short-form series including its November 9 premiere date and key art. Two big bombshells that were shared on the panel including the fact that Smith would narrate the series and on top of that, they shared the first full episode of the series.
The docuseries is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC and will include a history of...
The docuseries is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC and will include a history of...
- 10/8/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
The first thing you might notice in Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2 trailer is the music. The familiar theme of the original, classic series, has been twisted into a cross between the themes to the film Halloween and The Exorcist. We can still make out the melody, but it is far more haunting in its new mix. The same can be said of the show.
The new iteration Unsolved Mysteries is haunting and serious, avoiding some of the cheesier aspects which endeared viewers to the original, which began airing in 1987. Unsolved Mysteries Volume 1 featured six episodes which began streaming in July. Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2’s second set of sixes premieres on Oct. 19. With only one more 6 to make it a devilish enumeration, it is a perfect way to celebrate Halloween.
“In six new episodes, Unsolved Mysteries profiles more unexplained disappearances, tragic events, and bizarre occurrences,” according to the official logline.
The new iteration Unsolved Mysteries is haunting and serious, avoiding some of the cheesier aspects which endeared viewers to the original, which began airing in 1987. Unsolved Mysteries Volume 1 featured six episodes which began streaming in July. Unsolved Mysteries Volume 2’s second set of sixes premieres on Oct. 19. With only one more 6 to make it a devilish enumeration, it is a perfect way to celebrate Halloween.
“In six new episodes, Unsolved Mysteries profiles more unexplained disappearances, tragic events, and bizarre occurrences,” according to the official logline.
- 10/8/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The official trailer for Netflix’s “Unsolved Mysteries Vol. 2” is out, and it features “haunting” footage from real-life cases that is sure to give you goosebumps.
The second installment of Netflix’s reboot of the classic mystery TV series comes out Oct. 19, featuring six all-new stories that have left investigators scratching their heads for years.
As always, the show’s goal is to generate new information from viewers that could lead to a break in each case.
“Somebody out there knows something,” a voice says in the trailer, which you can watch above and on YouTube.
From the murder of a Washington insider to a case of stolen children, Volume 2 “profiles more unexplained disappearances, tragic events, and bizarre occurrences,” according to Netflix.
The series comes from the original creators, Terry Meurer and John Cosgrove, who also executive produce with Robert M. Wise. Shawn Levy and Josh Barry executive produce for 21 Laps Entertainment,...
The second installment of Netflix’s reboot of the classic mystery TV series comes out Oct. 19, featuring six all-new stories that have left investigators scratching their heads for years.
As always, the show’s goal is to generate new information from viewers that could lead to a break in each case.
“Somebody out there knows something,” a voice says in the trailer, which you can watch above and on YouTube.
From the murder of a Washington insider to a case of stolen children, Volume 2 “profiles more unexplained disappearances, tragic events, and bizarre occurrences,” according to Netflix.
The series comes from the original creators, Terry Meurer and John Cosgrove, who also executive produce with Robert M. Wise. Shawn Levy and Josh Barry executive produce for 21 Laps Entertainment,...
- 10/8/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Universal Studio Group’s Ucp has unveiled its unscripted development slate, which includes projects from Seth MacFarlane’s Fuzzy Door, the Jim Henson Company and Wondery.
“While we have had great success in the realm of true-crime, we also have a softer side that we want to show off. I can’t think of a better time for some fun, smart, light-hearted yet timely fare for our unscripted slate,” said Dawn Olmstead, president of Ucp.
“Micronations” is one such project, executive produced by MacFarlane and Erica Huggins for Fuzzy Door alongside Jason Clark and Sarah Ullman, as part of MacFarlane’s overall deal with Ucp. The documentary tackles the question of what it means to belong, to be a citizen, and to build a country. The show’s host will go on “an adventure around the world to the countries that don’t exist.”
Ucp and the Jim Henson Company...
“While we have had great success in the realm of true-crime, we also have a softer side that we want to show off. I can’t think of a better time for some fun, smart, light-hearted yet timely fare for our unscripted slate,” said Dawn Olmstead, president of Ucp.
“Micronations” is one such project, executive produced by MacFarlane and Erica Huggins for Fuzzy Door alongside Jason Clark and Sarah Ullman, as part of MacFarlane’s overall deal with Ucp. The documentary tackles the question of what it means to belong, to be a citizen, and to build a country. The show’s host will go on “an adventure around the world to the countries that don’t exist.”
Ucp and the Jim Henson Company...
- 9/2/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Ucp is ramping up its development on unscripted programming and is moving into the family space.
The company is working on family-friendly projects with Seth MacFarlane, Jim Henson Company and Wondery.
This comes after the division of Universal Studio Group has produced a slew of true-crime series and investigative doc series such as Netflix’s Business of Drugs, FX’s A Wilderness of Error and Oxygen’s DNA of Murder with Paul Holes and Unspeakable Crime: The Killing of Jessica Chambers.
Micronations, which is exec produced by MacFarlane and and Erica Huggins for Fuzzy Door, looks at what it takes to build a country, what it means to be a citizen and takes a host on an adventure around the world to the countries that don’t exist. Jason Clark and Sarah Ullman will also exec produce.
Imagined Life is based on the eponymous Wondery podcast, which takes people on...
The company is working on family-friendly projects with Seth MacFarlane, Jim Henson Company and Wondery.
This comes after the division of Universal Studio Group has produced a slew of true-crime series and investigative doc series such as Netflix’s Business of Drugs, FX’s A Wilderness of Error and Oxygen’s DNA of Murder with Paul Holes and Unspeakable Crime: The Killing of Jessica Chambers.
Micronations, which is exec produced by MacFarlane and and Erica Huggins for Fuzzy Door, looks at what it takes to build a country, what it means to be a citizen and takes a host on an adventure around the world to the countries that don’t exist. Jason Clark and Sarah Ullman will also exec produce.
Imagined Life is based on the eponymous Wondery podcast, which takes people on...
- 9/2/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: We can tell you first that Oscar- and Emmy-nominated producer David Permut has picked up the rights to produce a narrative adaptation of Netflix’s acclaimed docuseries The Pharmacist which premiered earlier this year.
Permut is producing the film through his Permut Presentations banner alongside Jenner Furst, Julia Willoughby Nason and Mike Gasparro at The Cinemart, the team that directed and produced the docuseries. Brandon Riley and Keenan Porterfield will serve as EPs.
The docuseries tells the story of Dan Schneider, a small-town pharmacist in Louisiana who took it upon himself in 1999 to seek justice after the mysterious murder of his teenage son. Through his own detective work, Dan discovers that his only son was addicted to opioids and was murdered while on a desperate attempt to buy oxycontin. His obsession with convicting his son’s murderer leads him to uncover a string of highly illegal pill-mills, and ultimately...
Permut is producing the film through his Permut Presentations banner alongside Jenner Furst, Julia Willoughby Nason and Mike Gasparro at The Cinemart, the team that directed and produced the docuseries. Brandon Riley and Keenan Porterfield will serve as EPs.
The docuseries tells the story of Dan Schneider, a small-town pharmacist in Louisiana who took it upon himself in 1999 to seek justice after the mysterious murder of his teenage son. Through his own detective work, Dan discovers that his only son was addicted to opioids and was murdered while on a desperate attempt to buy oxycontin. His obsession with convicting his son’s murderer leads him to uncover a string of highly illegal pill-mills, and ultimately...
- 7/9/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Ronnie James Dio — the influential heavy metal singer who performed in Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell as well as fronting his own eponymous supergroup — will be the subject of a new documentary. Executive produced by BMG and Wendy Dio, the film is the first-ever career-spanning documentary on the artist. Dio died from stomach cancer in 2010 at the age of 67.
Authorized by the artist’s estate, the feature-length documentary is currently in production. Helmed by Don Argott and Demian Fenton, the film will include previously unseen archival footage and photos...
Authorized by the artist’s estate, the feature-length documentary is currently in production. Helmed by Don Argott and Demian Fenton, the film will include previously unseen archival footage and photos...
- 2/19/2020
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
The next feature-length film from BMG will be the first-ever career-spanning documentary on legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio.
Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest and most influential hard rock vocalists of all time, Dio fronted Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Elf, Heaven & Hell and his own eponymous band over the course of a 40-plus year-long career. He died from cancer in 2010 at the age of 67.
The forthcoming film is the first documentary about Dio to be fully authorized by the artist’s estate. BMG is both financier and executive producer of the film, with all rights available worldwide.
The Dio doc is the latest project in BMG’s fast-growing line of music-related films and television projects, including the Sundance Film Festival selections “David Crosby: Remember My Name” — which was nominated for a Grammy — and the Joan Jett documentary, “Bad Reputation.” Other titles include “The Show’s the Thing,” a...
Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest and most influential hard rock vocalists of all time, Dio fronted Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Elf, Heaven & Hell and his own eponymous band over the course of a 40-plus year-long career. He died from cancer in 2010 at the age of 67.
The forthcoming film is the first documentary about Dio to be fully authorized by the artist’s estate. BMG is both financier and executive producer of the film, with all rights available worldwide.
The Dio doc is the latest project in BMG’s fast-growing line of music-related films and television projects, including the Sundance Film Festival selections “David Crosby: Remember My Name” — which was nominated for a Grammy — and the Joan Jett documentary, “Bad Reputation.” Other titles include “The Show’s the Thing,” a...
- 2/18/2020
- by Jem Aswad
- Variety Film + TV
‘Avengers: Endgame’ helmers Joe and Anthony Russo just can’t keep away from the world of comics, the filmmaking duo are set to produce a documentary series highlighting the Marvel Vs. DC rivalry.
Inspired by Reed Tucker’s book ‘Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC.‘, the series will explore the heated rivalry between the two comic publishers which transformed the marketplace from Marvel going from obscurity to dominating the cinemas of today, to DC with its big film success in the 80s and 90s along with some recent hits and major footprint in television with no less than six live-action series on the air.
The documentary, which will air on streaming service Quibi, will highlight little-known stories of the men and women who were behind the creation of some of the best-known and most revered characters in the world will share their stories and reflect on...
Inspired by Reed Tucker’s book ‘Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC.‘, the series will explore the heated rivalry between the two comic publishers which transformed the marketplace from Marvel going from obscurity to dominating the cinemas of today, to DC with its big film success in the 80s and 90s along with some recent hits and major footprint in television with no less than six live-action series on the air.
The documentary, which will air on streaming service Quibi, will highlight little-known stories of the men and women who were behind the creation of some of the best-known and most revered characters in the world will share their stories and reflect on...
- 11/14/2019
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Joseph Baxter Nov 13, 2019
Quibi docuseries Slugfest will chronicle the comic book rivalry between Marvel and DC, executive-produced by the Russo Brothers.
Slugfest, a docuseries focused on the comic book industry rivalry between Marvel and DC, might just draw the ever-potent genre fandom demographic to the 2020-launching streaming platform, Quibi, the billion-dollar-backed, millennial-aimed streaming service designed for short-form stories.
A greenlight has been given to Slugfest by Quibi, adapting the 2017 book by Reed Tucker, Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC. While the prospect of getting a docuseries that gives proper reverence to the comic book industry is exciting to any discerning fan, said excitement should be compounded with the series presence of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo, who will be involved as executive producers.
Serving as directors for Slugfest are the duo of Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, who helmed...
Quibi docuseries Slugfest will chronicle the comic book rivalry between Marvel and DC, executive-produced by the Russo Brothers.
Slugfest, a docuseries focused on the comic book industry rivalry between Marvel and DC, might just draw the ever-potent genre fandom demographic to the 2020-launching streaming platform, Quibi, the billion-dollar-backed, millennial-aimed streaming service designed for short-form stories.
A greenlight has been given to Slugfest by Quibi, adapting the 2017 book by Reed Tucker, Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC. While the prospect of getting a docuseries that gives proper reverence to the comic book industry is exciting to any discerning fan, said excitement should be compounded with the series presence of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo, who will be involved as executive producers.
Serving as directors for Slugfest are the duo of Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, who helmed...
- 11/13/2019
- Den of Geek
Quibi has greenlit Slugfest, a new documentary series executive produced by Anthony Russo and Joseph Russo (Avengers: Endgame) that will delve into the pitched rivalry between Marvel and DC Comics, the publishers whose combined IP has become a dominant source material for today’s film and television.
The series is inspired by the book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC.
The directors of Framing John DeLorean and Believer, Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, are on board. The series will be produced by Agbo CEO Todd Makurath, Peter Rieveschl (The Amazing Race), Nick Gilhool (Top Chef) and Jen Casey (Extreme Weather).
Slugfest will bring to light little-known stories from the history of this uniquely American art form. The men and women who were behind the creation of some of the best-known and most revered characters in the world will share their stories and reflect on the...
The series is inspired by the book Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-year Battle Between Marvel and DC.
The directors of Framing John DeLorean and Believer, Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, are on board. The series will be produced by Agbo CEO Todd Makurath, Peter Rieveschl (The Amazing Race), Nick Gilhool (Top Chef) and Jen Casey (Extreme Weather).
Slugfest will bring to light little-known stories from the history of this uniquely American art form. The men and women who were behind the creation of some of the best-known and most revered characters in the world will share their stories and reflect on the...
- 11/13/2019
- by Geoff Boucher
- Deadline Film + TV
Anthony and Joseph Russo, who have been key creative members of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, are now bringing a new show to Quibi documenting the decades-long rivalry between Marvel and DC.
Quibi, the mobile TV subscription startup founded by Jeffrey Katzenberg, greenlit “Slugfest,” a documentary series executive produced by the Russo Brothers, whose directing credits include a string of hits for Marvel: “Avengers: Endgame,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Captain America: Winter Soldier” and “Captain America: Civil War.”
“Slugfest” is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book “Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-Year Battle between Marvel and DC.” The docu-series will chronicle the growth of comic books as a new American art form, following the rise of the two companies that went on to become comics-publishing and Hollywood powerhouses.
Producers promise that “Slugfest” will bring to light little-known stories from the history of both Marvel and DC, including interviews with creators of the best-known superhero characters in the world.
Quibi, the mobile TV subscription startup founded by Jeffrey Katzenberg, greenlit “Slugfest,” a documentary series executive produced by the Russo Brothers, whose directing credits include a string of hits for Marvel: “Avengers: Endgame,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Captain America: Winter Soldier” and “Captain America: Civil War.”
“Slugfest” is inspired by Reed Tucker’s book “Slugfest: Inside the Epic, 50-Year Battle between Marvel and DC.” The docu-series will chronicle the growth of comic books as a new American art form, following the rise of the two companies that went on to become comics-publishing and Hollywood powerhouses.
Producers promise that “Slugfest” will bring to light little-known stories from the history of both Marvel and DC, including interviews with creators of the best-known superhero characters in the world.
- 11/13/2019
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Quibi has greenlit a new documentary series from “Avengers: Infinity War” directors Anthony Russo and Joseph Russo highlighting the rise of comic book juggernauts Marvel and DC, the upcoming mobile-only streaming service shared on Wednesday morning.
The series, dubbed “Slugfest,” will be executive produced by both Russo brothers. “Slugfest” will chronicle the early days and growth of Marvel and DC, as the two preeminent comic book publishers — fueled by creativity and competition — battled for bragging rights; the series will also look at the lasting cultural impact stemming from the Marvel-dc rivalry, as well as little-known stories from behind-the-scenes.
“Slugfest” will be directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, who both worked together previously on “Framing John DeLorean” and “Believer.” Agbt CEO Todd Makurath, Peter Rieveschl, Nick Gilhool, and Jen Casey will serve as producers.
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The series is...
The series, dubbed “Slugfest,” will be executive produced by both Russo brothers. “Slugfest” will chronicle the early days and growth of Marvel and DC, as the two preeminent comic book publishers — fueled by creativity and competition — battled for bragging rights; the series will also look at the lasting cultural impact stemming from the Marvel-dc rivalry, as well as little-known stories from behind-the-scenes.
“Slugfest” will be directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, who both worked together previously on “Framing John DeLorean” and “Believer.” Agbt CEO Todd Makurath, Peter Rieveschl, Nick Gilhool, and Jen Casey will serve as producers.
Also Read: Trump #MAGAChallenge at TikTok Rival Triller Sparks Resignations, Protests (Exclusive)
The series is...
- 11/13/2019
- by Sean Burch
- The Wrap
Nearly 15 years after his death, John DeLorean’s life story still feels tailor-made for the movies. He rose and fell, and then did it again. He married and remarried, and then did it again. He made huge mistakes, miraculously escaped punishment, and then — well, you get the idea.
So perhaps the problem is that there’s too much material here? “Driven” is the second film this summer to address DeLorean’s life, and the second one to feel overwhelmed by its subject. In the more ambitious “Framing John DeLorean,” documentarians Sheena Joyce and Don Argott addressed their subject head-on, mixing various styles and genres in an attempt to understand him.
Here, director Nick Hamm (“The Journey”) and writer Colin Bateman skirt the edges of his experience, as if they’re too intimidated to approach it directly. So we get a relatively amusing dramedy, but one in which DeLorean remains a...
So perhaps the problem is that there’s too much material here? “Driven” is the second film this summer to address DeLorean’s life, and the second one to feel overwhelmed by its subject. In the more ambitious “Framing John DeLorean,” documentarians Sheena Joyce and Don Argott addressed their subject head-on, mixing various styles and genres in an attempt to understand him.
Here, director Nick Hamm (“The Journey”) and writer Colin Bateman skirt the edges of his experience, as if they’re too intimidated to approach it directly. So we get a relatively amusing dramedy, but one in which DeLorean remains a...
- 8/15/2019
- by Elizabeth Weitzman
- The Wrap
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