Dakota Johnson is figuring out what she wants from her dating life after admitting she’s interested in women in the first trailer for Am I Ok?
Max announced Monday that the dramedy feature from co-directors Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne is set to launch on the streaming service June 6 after premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in 2022. Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Kiersey Clemons, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael and Notaro round out the cast.
Am I Ok? centers on lifelong friends Lucy (Johnson) and Jane (Mizuno) navigating the changes in their paths after Jane plans a move to London, leading Lucy to reveal a secret about herself.
While encouraging Johnson to come out of her shell, Mizuno says in the trailer, “You try 20 different flavors of ice cream before you settle on a single scoop.” This leads Johnson to respond, “Ice cream is different than vagina.”
Notaro and Allynne,...
Max announced Monday that the dramedy feature from co-directors Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne is set to launch on the streaming service June 6 after premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in 2022. Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Kiersey Clemons, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael and Notaro round out the cast.
Am I Ok? centers on lifelong friends Lucy (Johnson) and Jane (Mizuno) navigating the changes in their paths after Jane plans a move to London, leading Lucy to reveal a secret about herself.
While encouraging Johnson to come out of her shell, Mizuno says in the trailer, “You try 20 different flavors of ice cream before you settle on a single scoop.” This leads Johnson to respond, “Ice cream is different than vagina.”
Notaro and Allynne,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Lately, Dakota Johnson has been battling a sea of negative criticism. Ever since the trailer for her critically blasted superhero movie, Madame Web, first debuted, the actress has suffered trolling. The negativity only intensified once the Sony flick was released, and the aftermath of it can still be felt.
Dakota Johnson in Madame Web
Yet, the actress does not seem to be deterred by all that is negative but instead is gearing up for another theatrical release. Starring alongside the controversial star Sean Penn in the upcoming film Daddio, Johnson is playing a cab passenger named Girlie.
Dakota Johnson Stars With Sean Penn in Daddio Dakota Johnson in a still from Daddio
After her disappointing feat in Sony’s Madame Web, Dakota Johnson has no plans to slow down. The Fifty Shades of Grey star will next be seen along with Sean Penn in the Indie feature titled Daddio. Being described as a character study,...
Dakota Johnson in Madame Web
Yet, the actress does not seem to be deterred by all that is negative but instead is gearing up for another theatrical release. Starring alongside the controversial star Sean Penn in the upcoming film Daddio, Johnson is playing a cab passenger named Girlie.
Dakota Johnson Stars With Sean Penn in Daddio Dakota Johnson in a still from Daddio
After her disappointing feat in Sony’s Madame Web, Dakota Johnson has no plans to slow down. The Fifty Shades of Grey star will next be seen along with Sean Penn in the Indie feature titled Daddio. Being described as a character study,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
Dakota Johnson is a passenger in both life and a yellow taxi cab, seeking connection with whomever is most near. For her, that turns out to be crass driver Clark, played by Sean Penn in the two-hander drama “Daddio.”
Their shared journey is from New York City’s John F. Kennedy Airport to Hell’s Kitchen, with Johnson’s character Girlie determined to get to Clark’s innermost being. He’s not into it. The indie feature written and directed by Christy Hall debuted at TIFF 2023 and will next play at Tribeca 2024.
Johnson produces alongside TeaTime Pictures partner Ro Donnelly, who told IndieWire that Girlie is emotionally “reflective” of the below-the-line team behind the feature itself.
“Because she is our generation of women who are still approaching these men in a nonjudgmental way because it’s fascinating. We’re not threatened by it,” producer Donnelly said. “And that reveals her power,...
Their shared journey is from New York City’s John F. Kennedy Airport to Hell’s Kitchen, with Johnson’s character Girlie determined to get to Clark’s innermost being. He’s not into it. The indie feature written and directed by Christy Hall debuted at TIFF 2023 and will next play at Tribeca 2024.
Johnson produces alongside TeaTime Pictures partner Ro Donnelly, who told IndieWire that Girlie is emotionally “reflective” of the below-the-line team behind the feature itself.
“Because she is our generation of women who are still approaching these men in a nonjudgmental way because it’s fascinating. We’re not threatened by it,” producer Donnelly said. “And that reveals her power,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Sony Pictures Classics announced on Tuesday that it will release its indie drama Daddio, starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn, in theaters nationwide on June 28.
Marking the feature directorial debut of Christy Hall, who also penned the script, Daddio world premiered at last year’s Telluride Film Festival before going on to screen in Toronto. The film is described as character-study, encapsulated in one single cab ride, that explores the complexities inherent to the secrets we keep, particularly the ones locked away on our phones. It’s about truth and illusion, how we so effortlessly substitute one for the other out of survival — about the hurtful memories of childhood, past trauma manifesting in profound ways, and the dance between the pain and poetry that is the human experience.
Johnson and Ro Donnelly produced via their TeaTime Pictures, along with Hercules Film Fund, First Love Films, Raindrop Valley, Projected Picture Works,...
Marking the feature directorial debut of Christy Hall, who also penned the script, Daddio world premiered at last year’s Telluride Film Festival before going on to screen in Toronto. The film is described as character-study, encapsulated in one single cab ride, that explores the complexities inherent to the secrets we keep, particularly the ones locked away on our phones. It’s about truth and illusion, how we so effortlessly substitute one for the other out of survival — about the hurtful memories of childhood, past trauma manifesting in profound ways, and the dance between the pain and poetry that is the human experience.
Johnson and Ro Donnelly produced via their TeaTime Pictures, along with Hercules Film Fund, First Love Films, Raindrop Valley, Projected Picture Works,...
- 3/19/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Dakota Johnson is hopping in a cab to distance herself from the Madame Web fallout for Christy Hall’s upcoming drama Daddio. Setting a destination for theaters on June 28, Daddio stars Johnson and Sean Penn in a character-driven feature about human connectivity and appreciating life’s intricate events that lead to significant changes. The highly anticipated film, written and directed by Christy Hall in her feature directorial debut, received an enthusiastic response and critical praise following its premieres at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival.
Here’s the official synopsis for Daddio courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics:
Daddio celebrates the power found in those rare moments of pure human connection, even with the most unlikely person. This highly contained, yet kinetic character-study – encapsulated in one single cab ride – explores the complexities inherent to the secrets we keep, particularly the ones locked away on our phones. It’s about truth and illusion,...
Here’s the official synopsis for Daddio courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics:
Daddio celebrates the power found in those rare moments of pure human connection, even with the most unlikely person. This highly contained, yet kinetic character-study – encapsulated in one single cab ride – explores the complexities inherent to the secrets we keep, particularly the ones locked away on our phones. It’s about truth and illusion,...
- 3/19/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Following Walden Media’s acquisition of rights to The Sky Blues, the debut novel of New York Times bestseller Robbie Couch, the indie studio has enlisted Jono Mitchell & Madison Hatfield to script a feature adaptation, bringing Michael Medico (Good Trouble) aboard to direct, in his feature debut.
Named a 2022 Barnes & Noble Young-Adult Book of the Year finalist and Junior Library Guild selection following its publication by Simon & Schuster Books in 2021, The Sky Blues follows high school senior Sky Baker, the only openly gay student at his Michigan high school. His big promposal plans for his crush, Ali, get derailed after an anonymous hacker sends a deeply homophobic and Islamophobic e-blast that quickly goes viral. Bt just when Sky considers skipping town altogether, his classmates give him a reason to fight back in a coming-of-age story about bravery, being yourself and embracing a chosen family that supports you through everything.
Named a 2022 Barnes & Noble Young-Adult Book of the Year finalist and Junior Library Guild selection following its publication by Simon & Schuster Books in 2021, The Sky Blues follows high school senior Sky Baker, the only openly gay student at his Michigan high school. His big promposal plans for his crush, Ali, get derailed after an anonymous hacker sends a deeply homophobic and Islamophobic e-blast that quickly goes viral. Bt just when Sky considers skipping town altogether, his classmates give him a reason to fight back in a coming-of-age story about bravery, being yourself and embracing a chosen family that supports you through everything.
- 3/12/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Dakota Johnson got candid about why she feels the entertainment industry is “really fucking bleak.”
In an interview with L’Officiel magazine, the Madame Web star said that with production company TeaTime Pictures, she and Ro Donnelly aim to tell intricate, detailed and nuanced stories with powerful female characters at the center. When asked if she felt she had to produce projects like that in order to get them made, the actress did not hold back.
“I am discovering that it’s really fucking bleak in this industry,” she told the publication. “It is majorly disheartening. The people who run streaming platforms don’t trust creative people or artists to know what’s going to work, and that is just going to make us implode. It’s really heartbreaking.”
She explained that she’s found it hard to get things made that are unique and “very forward” in the story they’re trying to tell,...
In an interview with L’Officiel magazine, the Madame Web star said that with production company TeaTime Pictures, she and Ro Donnelly aim to tell intricate, detailed and nuanced stories with powerful female characters at the center. When asked if she felt she had to produce projects like that in order to get them made, the actress did not hold back.
“I am discovering that it’s really fucking bleak in this industry,” she told the publication. “It is majorly disheartening. The people who run streaming platforms don’t trust creative people or artists to know what’s going to work, and that is just going to make us implode. It’s really heartbreaking.”
She explained that she’s found it hard to get things made that are unique and “very forward” in the story they’re trying to tell,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Samantha Racanelli, former SVP of Film Development and Production at Fifth Season, has been hired as President of Production at TeaTime Pictures. In the new role, she will oversee development and production working closely with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly, who co-founded the company in 2019.
This hire reflects a major expansion for the production company which recently promoted Maddie Schiff to Director of Development and Hyunji Ward to Creative Executive.
In addition, Boat Rocker, an independent, integrated global entertainment company, extended its current first-look deal with TeaTime to continue to develop and produce scripted and unscripted television and digital content.
“Dakota and Ro have an incredible appreciation for the content they want to create, driven by their unique taste for telling compelling and artful stories with broad commercial appeal,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “We’re thrilled to...
This hire reflects a major expansion for the production company which recently promoted Maddie Schiff to Director of Development and Hyunji Ward to Creative Executive.
In addition, Boat Rocker, an independent, integrated global entertainment company, extended its current first-look deal with TeaTime to continue to develop and produce scripted and unscripted television and digital content.
“Dakota and Ro have an incredible appreciation for the content they want to create, driven by their unique taste for telling compelling and artful stories with broad commercial appeal,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “We’re thrilled to...
- 1/29/2024
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Dakota Johnson has signed with CAA. The agency will rep her in all areas, including her TeaTime Pictures production company.
Johnson, who had been repped by WME, stars alongside Sean Penn in Daddio, which she produced through TeaTime. Christy Hall wrote and directed the drama, which premiered at Telluride and Toronto. Sony Pictures Classics acquired it, and will release in 2024. Johnson drew raves for Daddio, which is just her and Penn in a yellow cab from JFK to Manhattan, two strangers who briefly get to know each other and the problems each faces. The dialogue is razor sharp and Penn turns in one of his best performances in years. Johnson is right there with him the whole way.
Johnson will next be seen playing the title character in Madame Web, based on the Marvel superhero character for Sony. Directed by S.J. Clarkson, the film is slated for a big theatrical release in February.
Johnson, who had been repped by WME, stars alongside Sean Penn in Daddio, which she produced through TeaTime. Christy Hall wrote and directed the drama, which premiered at Telluride and Toronto. Sony Pictures Classics acquired it, and will release in 2024. Johnson drew raves for Daddio, which is just her and Penn in a yellow cab from JFK to Manhattan, two strangers who briefly get to know each other and the problems each faces. The dialogue is razor sharp and Penn turns in one of his best performances in years. Johnson is right there with him the whole way.
Johnson will next be seen playing the title character in Madame Web, based on the Marvel superhero character for Sony. Directed by S.J. Clarkson, the film is slated for a big theatrical release in February.
- 11/22/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
‘The Disappearance of Shere Hite’ Trailer: Dakota Johnson Narrates an Elusive Sex Reseacher’s Legacy
After publishing “The Hite Report” in 1976, sex researcher Shere Hite all but vanished from the public eye. Now, thanks to documentarian Nicole Newnham and narrator/executive producer Dakota Johnson, Hite’s legacy is on full display.
“The Disappearance of Shere Hite,” which premiered at Sundance 2023, is written and directed by Oscar-nominated “Crip Cramp” filmmaker Newnham.
The bestselling 1976 book “The Hite Report” liberated the female orgasm by revealing the private experiences of 3,000 anonymous survey respondents. Shere Hite’s findings rocked the establishment, presaged current conversations about gender and sexuality, and made her a target of the patriarchy. Actress Johnson narrates the documentary, which charts Hite’s explosive rise to fame and then mysterious retreat, executive produces through her TeaTime Pictures banner. The film was also just nominated for three Critics Choice Documentary Awards: Best Archival Documentary, Best Biographical Documentary, and Best Narration.
As Hite herself says in the trailer, “Equality isn’t so dangerous to me.
“The Disappearance of Shere Hite,” which premiered at Sundance 2023, is written and directed by Oscar-nominated “Crip Cramp” filmmaker Newnham.
The bestselling 1976 book “The Hite Report” liberated the female orgasm by revealing the private experiences of 3,000 anonymous survey respondents. Shere Hite’s findings rocked the establishment, presaged current conversations about gender and sexuality, and made her a target of the patriarchy. Actress Johnson narrates the documentary, which charts Hite’s explosive rise to fame and then mysterious retreat, executive produces through her TeaTime Pictures banner. The film was also just nominated for three Critics Choice Documentary Awards: Best Archival Documentary, Best Biographical Documentary, and Best Narration.
As Hite herself says in the trailer, “Equality isn’t so dangerous to me.
- 10/17/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Sony Pictures Classics is in negotiations to pick up “Daddio,” TheWrap has learned. While the acquisition is not yet a done deal, SPC is on the verge of grabbing the Sean Penn/Dakota Johnson taxi melodrama for North America, Latin America and various European and Asian territories.
The picture, directed by Christy Hall — who previously co-created the Netflix series “I Am Not Okay with This” — had a well-received debut at Telluride and then at Toronto. Her directorial debut concerns a taxi driver (Penn) and a rider as they get to know each other during a trip from the JFK airport to Manhattan.
Repped by CAA Media Finance and WME Independent, the film was granted a SAG-AFTRA interim agreement, which allowed the two actors to do publicity in Toronto. It was produced by Hercules Film Fund, TeaTime Pictures, First Love Films, Raindrop Valley, Projected Picture Works and Rhea Films.
The picture, directed by Christy Hall — who previously co-created the Netflix series “I Am Not Okay with This” — had a well-received debut at Telluride and then at Toronto. Her directorial debut concerns a taxi driver (Penn) and a rider as they get to know each other during a trip from the JFK airport to Manhattan.
Repped by CAA Media Finance and WME Independent, the film was granted a SAG-AFTRA interim agreement, which allowed the two actors to do publicity in Toronto. It was produced by Hercules Film Fund, TeaTime Pictures, First Love Films, Raindrop Valley, Projected Picture Works and Rhea Films.
- 9/21/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Sony Pictures Classics is in exclusive negotiations to acquire Daddio, the Christy Hall-directed two-hander starring Sean Penn and Dakota Johnson. The film established itself as a bright spot in its premiere at Telluride and then at Toronto. SPC will get North America, Latin America and territories throughout Europe and Asia.
Hall, who co-created the series I Am Not Okay With This, makes her feature directorial debut armed with a taxi cab, two terrific actors and a razor-sharp script in which a driver and his fare get to know each other and intimate aspects of their lives during the course of a traffic-snarled road trip from JFK to midtown Manhattan.
Penn plays the cab driver, who engages his passenger in small talk that becomes gradually more revealing. Johnson plays the young woman who is navigating an affair with a married father and who clearly has misgivings about it. Penn,...
Hall, who co-created the series I Am Not Okay With This, makes her feature directorial debut armed with a taxi cab, two terrific actors and a razor-sharp script in which a driver and his fare get to know each other and intimate aspects of their lives during the course of a traffic-snarled road trip from JFK to midtown Manhattan.
Penn plays the cab driver, who engages his passenger in small talk that becomes gradually more revealing. Johnson plays the young woman who is navigating an affair with a married father and who clearly has misgivings about it. Penn,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Though “Daddio” is an intimate chamber piece between Sean Penn as a taxi driver, and Dakota Johnson as a passenger trying to get from John F. Kennedy airport to Hell’s Kitchen, it focuses on a near universal issue, especially coming out of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We don’t talk to each other anymore, and we’re terrified of talking to people that are different from us,” said director Christy Hall to IndieWire.
This love letter to New York, and the power of human connection, was the screenwriter and playwright’s spec script that got her the job running acclaimed Netflix YA series “I Am Not Okay With This,” a job that paired her with executive Ro Donnelly. “‘Daddio’ was forever in my mind, so when I left Netflix I was like, ‘God, that role is so perfect for Dakota.’ We made it happen,” said the producer who runs TeaTime Pictures with the star.
This love letter to New York, and the power of human connection, was the screenwriter and playwright’s spec script that got her the job running acclaimed Netflix YA series “I Am Not Okay With This,” a job that paired her with executive Ro Donnelly. “‘Daddio’ was forever in my mind, so when I left Netflix I was like, ‘God, that role is so perfect for Dakota.’ We made it happen,” said the producer who runs TeaTime Pictures with the star.
- 9/10/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Roku has begun removing titles including scripted shows Most Dangerous Game starring Christoph Waltz and Slip from Zoe Lister-Jones.
It is the latest streamer to remove titles from its service following similar moves by Paramount+, Disney+, Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max and AMC Networks.
Roku revealed yesterday that it was set to remove some content as part of a cost-cutting drive that also saw around 300 employees laid off. It said that it would take a hit of between $55M-$65M for removing “select existing licensed and produced content from company-operated services on its TV streaming platform”.
The company will, however, continue to order original series and sources note that this process is part of its regular review of programming.
Action thriller Most Dangerous Game was originally a Quibi original with the first season starring Liam Hemsworth alongside Waltz. The first season earned two Emmy nominations and it was renewed...
It is the latest streamer to remove titles from its service following similar moves by Paramount+, Disney+, Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max and AMC Networks.
Roku revealed yesterday that it was set to remove some content as part of a cost-cutting drive that also saw around 300 employees laid off. It said that it would take a hit of between $55M-$65M for removing “select existing licensed and produced content from company-operated services on its TV streaming platform”.
The company will, however, continue to order original series and sources note that this process is part of its regular review of programming.
Action thriller Most Dangerous Game was originally a Quibi original with the first season starring Liam Hemsworth alongside Waltz. The first season earned two Emmy nominations and it was renewed...
- 9/7/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
What does it mean to be one of the “hottest” or “buzziest” titles in a film festival sales market if there’s no stars drum up that excitement? Or if there’s little likelihood of an all-night bidding war by a streamer spending in the 7-figures to land their next Oscar contender?
As we reported earlier today, those are all ways in which the strike threatens to weigh on the film markets at Venice, Telluride, and Toronto. A handful of those films are directorial debuts by famous actors-turned-filmmakers, and some even have interim agreements from SAG-AFTRA that will let them promote. But all these films should stand on their own merits and could catch the eyes of the many non-amptp distributors that need creative ways to fill out their slates.
In part because of the strikes, the Venice and TIFF slates are loaded with independent movies without U.S. distribution,...
As we reported earlier today, those are all ways in which the strike threatens to weigh on the film markets at Venice, Telluride, and Toronto. A handful of those films are directorial debuts by famous actors-turned-filmmakers, and some even have interim agreements from SAG-AFTRA that will let them promote. But all these films should stand on their own merits and could catch the eyes of the many non-amptp distributors that need creative ways to fill out their slates.
In part because of the strikes, the Venice and TIFF slates are loaded with independent movies without U.S. distribution,...
- 8/28/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Freeform dropped a teaser for Season 5 of “Good Trouble,” which premieres March 16 and will stream on Hulu the next day.
The series is a spin-off of “The Fosters,” and has followed the characters Callie and Mariana to Los Angeles. In the fifth season of the drama series, the roommates find relationship challenges as well as career opportunities, and “The Coterie” group must support each other as they navigate adulthood.
Season 5 features Cierra Ramirez, Tommy Martinez, Emma Hunton, Sherry Cola, Zuri Adele, Josh Pence, Bryan Craig and Booboo Stewart. Maia Mitchell, who left the show last season, will return for a short arc. The series is executive produced by showrunner Joanna Johnson as well as Christine Sacani, Greg Gugliotta, Jennifer Lopez, Benny Medina, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Cierra Ramirez.
Check out the teaser below.
Also in today’s TV news:
Trailers
Prime Video Sports dropped the official trailer for the new documentary “Reggie,...
The series is a spin-off of “The Fosters,” and has followed the characters Callie and Mariana to Los Angeles. In the fifth season of the drama series, the roommates find relationship challenges as well as career opportunities, and “The Coterie” group must support each other as they navigate adulthood.
Season 5 features Cierra Ramirez, Tommy Martinez, Emma Hunton, Sherry Cola, Zuri Adele, Josh Pence, Bryan Craig and Booboo Stewart. Maia Mitchell, who left the show last season, will return for a short arc. The series is executive produced by showrunner Joanna Johnson as well as Christine Sacani, Greg Gugliotta, Jennifer Lopez, Benny Medina, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Cierra Ramirez.
Check out the teaser below.
Also in today’s TV news:
Trailers
Prime Video Sports dropped the official trailer for the new documentary “Reggie,...
- 3/9/2023
- by Charna Flam and Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Hulu is developing Girlshow, from Sally Bradford McKenna (Son Of Zorn) and Ro Donnelly and Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures, with Search Party alumna Meredith Hagner attached to star. Boat Rocker, which has a stake in TeaTime, produces through its first-look deal with the production company.
Plot details are being kept under wraps for the project, described as a dark comedy, which will be written and executive produced by McKenna.
Donnelly and Johnson executive produce for TeaTime, along with Oly Obst for 3 Arts.
Hagner is known for her role as Portia Davenport on all five seasons of Search Party. She most recently voiced Mora in Disenchantment and will next be seen starring in Apple TV+’s Bad Monkey. Hagner is repped by UTA, Suskin/Karshan Management and Felker Toczek Suddleson Abramson McGinnis Ryan.
McKenna began her writing career on Will and Grace and went on to serve as co-executive...
Plot details are being kept under wraps for the project, described as a dark comedy, which will be written and executive produced by McKenna.
Donnelly and Johnson executive produce for TeaTime, along with Oly Obst for 3 Arts.
Hagner is known for her role as Portia Davenport on all five seasons of Search Party. She most recently voiced Mora in Disenchantment and will next be seen starring in Apple TV+’s Bad Monkey. Hagner is repped by UTA, Suskin/Karshan Management and Felker Toczek Suddleson Abramson McGinnis Ryan.
McKenna began her writing career on Will and Grace and went on to serve as co-executive...
- 2/24/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Award-winning actress Dakota Johnson and her producing partner at TeaTime Pictures, Ro Donnelly, have joined The Disappearance of Shere Hite as executive producers ahead of the documentary’s world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
Johnson also is featured as the voice of Hite in the film about the renowned sex researcher and author of The Hite Report, the mega-bestseller published in 1976 that “liberated the female orgasm by revealing the most private experiences of thousands of anonymous survey respondents.” Oscar-nominated filmmaker Nicole Newnham (Crip Camp) directed the documentary, which premieres Friday, January 20 in U.S. Documentary Competition.
Hite, who died in 2020 at the age of 77, spent the last decades of her life living in Europe, having been subjected to relentless attack by conservatives in the U.S. upset by her work that “challenged restrictive conceptions of sex and opened a dialogue in popular culture around women’s pleasure.”
A description of the film adds,...
Johnson also is featured as the voice of Hite in the film about the renowned sex researcher and author of The Hite Report, the mega-bestseller published in 1976 that “liberated the female orgasm by revealing the most private experiences of thousands of anonymous survey respondents.” Oscar-nominated filmmaker Nicole Newnham (Crip Camp) directed the documentary, which premieres Friday, January 20 in U.S. Documentary Competition.
Hite, who died in 2020 at the age of 77, spent the last decades of her life living in Europe, having been subjected to relentless attack by conservatives in the U.S. upset by her work that “challenged restrictive conceptions of sex and opened a dialogue in popular culture around women’s pleasure.”
A description of the film adds,...
- 1/14/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Roku has welcomed Netflix into the ad streaming market.
As SVoD service Netflix this week launches a low-cost, ad-supported tier in 12 territories, Roku Head of Originals David Eilenberg said his platform doesn’t see a direct threat and instead is focused on the benefits of long-term market changes.
“We believe the that the catalytic effect of [Netflix’s entrance] will have on the holistic shift from linear to streaming on ad spend outweighs short-term competition,” he said.
He also argued that the Roku box is a “fundamentally different” product to Netflix and other low-cost streamers “as ours is truly free and they ultimately require a monthly subscription, even at a reduced fee. They resonate differently with consumers.”
Netflix is also available through Roku in the U.S. “All of these companies who are competitors in one respect are partners in another,” said Eilenberg.
Roku certainly faces challenges, as despite total revenues and user...
As SVoD service Netflix this week launches a low-cost, ad-supported tier in 12 territories, Roku Head of Originals David Eilenberg said his platform doesn’t see a direct threat and instead is focused on the benefits of long-term market changes.
“We believe the that the catalytic effect of [Netflix’s entrance] will have on the holistic shift from linear to streaming on ad spend outweighs short-term competition,” he said.
He also argued that the Roku box is a “fundamentally different” product to Netflix and other low-cost streamers “as ours is truly free and they ultimately require a monthly subscription, even at a reduced fee. They resonate differently with consumers.”
Netflix is also available through Roku in the U.S. “All of these companies who are competitors in one respect are partners in another,” said Eilenberg.
Roku certainly faces challenges, as despite total revenues and user...
- 11/4/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Jay Baruchel has entered into a first-look deal with Boat Rocker. Under the deal, Baruchel will develop and produce film, television, and digital projects for Boat Rocker.
“Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen of Boat Rocker Media and co-chairmen of Boat Rocker Studios. “Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host. Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel is known for his roles in films like “Tropic Thunder,” “The End,” “Knocked Up,” “She’s Out of My League,” and the “How to Train Your Dragon” films. He also co-wrote and starred in the two “Goon” films. He also starred...
“Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen of Boat Rocker Media and co-chairmen of Boat Rocker Studios. “Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host. Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel is known for his roles in films like “Tropic Thunder,” “The End,” “Knocked Up,” “She’s Out of My League,” and the “How to Train Your Dragon” films. He also co-wrote and starred in the two “Goon” films. He also starred...
- 8/16/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Jay Baruchel, host of hit show Lol: Last One Laughing Canada, from Boat Rocker’s Insight Productions, is expanding his relationship with the entertainment company. The actor, writer, producer and director has closed a first-look deal with Boat Rocker to develop and produce original television, film and digital projects for the company.
“Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure. Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel starred as Josh Greenberg on all three seasons of Simon Rich-created Man Seeking Woman on Fxx.
“Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure. Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel starred as Josh Greenberg on all three seasons of Simon Rich-created Man Seeking Woman on Fxx.
- 8/16/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Boat Rocker has struck a first-look deal with Jay Baruchel, the co-writer and star of the “Goon” movies and host of “Lol: Last One Laughing Canada” from the company’s Insight Productions. Under the deal, the actor-director will produce and develop original film, TV and digital projects.
David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen of Boat Rocker Media and co-chairmen of Boat Rocker Studios said, “Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure. Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host. Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel starred as Josh Greenberg on all three seasons of Simon Rich-created “Man Seeking Woman” on Fxx. He is also...
David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen of Boat Rocker Media and co-chairmen of Boat Rocker Studios said, “Proudly wearing the Canadian maple leaf tattooed over his heart, Jay Baruchel is a national treasure. Jay has brought his unique talent, charm and humour to a multitude of rewatchable films and series, whether it be as actor, writer, producer or host. Everyone at Boat Rocker is excited to be working with Jay to help him bring his ideas and stories to global audiences.”
Baruchel starred as Josh Greenberg on all three seasons of Simon Rich-created “Man Seeking Woman” on Fxx. He is also...
- 8/16/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
There’s a quote from the 13th century Persian poet Rumi that sticks with Dakota Johnson as she navigates the early years of running her production company: “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.”
When asked what kinds of films TeaTime Pictures is looking to produce, it’s Rumi that Johnson returns to: “There’s no credo. There’s no mandate. It’s not like we make only one kind of movie with one kind of person. There are so many different worlds and people inside my mind and in my heart that I want to be able to to amplify,” she said in a conversation moderated by associate features editor Jenelle Riley at the Variety Entertainment Marketing Summit presented by Deloitte.
Johnson co-founded TeaTime with former Netflix development exec Ro Donnelly in 2019 and brought on former Boat Rocker vice chair...
When asked what kinds of films TeaTime Pictures is looking to produce, it’s Rumi that Johnson returns to: “There’s no credo. There’s no mandate. It’s not like we make only one kind of movie with one kind of person. There are so many different worlds and people inside my mind and in my heart that I want to be able to to amplify,” she said in a conversation moderated by associate features editor Jenelle Riley at the Variety Entertainment Marketing Summit presented by Deloitte.
Johnson co-founded TeaTime with former Netflix development exec Ro Donnelly in 2019 and brought on former Boat Rocker vice chair...
- 5/24/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
On Thursday, the first official trailer for writer-director Cooper Raiff’s “Cha Cha Real Smooth” was released ahead of its Apple TV+ premiere next month.
Raiff also produced the Sundance Film Festival premiere and plays the lead role in the film.
The official plot synopsis reads as follows:
“Fresh out of college and without a clear life path going forward, 22-year-old Andrew is stuck back at home with his family in New Jersey. But if there’s one thing that belongs on his nonexistent résumé, it’s how to get a party started, which lands him the perfect job of motivational dancing at the bar and bat mitzvahs for his younger brother’s classmates. When Andrew befriends a local mom, Domino, and her daughter, Lola, he finally discovers a future he wants—even if it might not be his own.”
The film stars Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante,...
Raiff also produced the Sundance Film Festival premiere and plays the lead role in the film.
The official plot synopsis reads as follows:
“Fresh out of college and without a clear life path going forward, 22-year-old Andrew is stuck back at home with his family in New Jersey. But if there’s one thing that belongs on his nonexistent résumé, it’s how to get a party started, which lands him the perfect job of motivational dancing at the bar and bat mitzvahs for his younger brother’s classmates. When Andrew befriends a local mom, Domino, and her daughter, Lola, he finally discovers a future he wants—even if it might not be his own.”
The film stars Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Caillou Pettis
- Gold Derby
Sundance winner “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” the sophomore project from indie writer-director Cooper Raiff, has unveiled its official trailer. The film stars Raiff and Dakota Johnson in an unconventional love story between a college graduate and a single mom.
The movie follows 22-year-old Andrew (played by Raiff), who’s fresh out of college and stuck at home with his family in New Jersey, with no clear life path. Andrew has no ambition and no real skills, except for one: he knows how to get a party started. This skill lands him the perfect job of motivational dancing at the bar and bat mitzvahs for his younger brother’s classmates. Things change for Andrew when he meets a local mother named Domino, played by Johnson. He befriends the mom and her daughter, Lola, and finally discovers a future he wants.
The cast is rounded out by Brad Garrett, Leslie Mann, Raúl Castillo,...
The movie follows 22-year-old Andrew (played by Raiff), who’s fresh out of college and stuck at home with his family in New Jersey, with no clear life path. Andrew has no ambition and no real skills, except for one: he knows how to get a party started. This skill lands him the perfect job of motivational dancing at the bar and bat mitzvahs for his younger brother’s classmates. Things change for Andrew when he meets a local mother named Domino, played by Johnson. He befriends the mom and her daughter, Lola, and finally discovers a future he wants.
The cast is rounded out by Brad Garrett, Leslie Mann, Raúl Castillo,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Angelique Jackson, Wilson Chapman and Carson Burton
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Zoe Lister-Jones’ comedy series Slip has rounded out its cast.
The Roku Original has added Schitt’s Creek star Emily Hampshire to its cast as well as Whitmer Thomas, Tymika Tafari and Amar Chadha-Patel.
The series, which marks the first TV series from Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures to go into production, tells the story of Mae Cannon, played by Lister-Jones, a 30-something that finds herself restless inside a marriage that totally works. The series will follow Mae through a fantastical journey of parallel universes, as she enters new relationships, trying to find her way back to her partner, and ultimately, herself.
Hampshire, who is best known for playing Stevie Budd in the Canadian comedy smash, plays Sandy. Hampshire is also currently starring in Epix horror series Chapelwaite, is starring in Amazon’s The Rig and is working with Norman Lear on a remake of Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman for TBS.
The Roku Original has added Schitt’s Creek star Emily Hampshire to its cast as well as Whitmer Thomas, Tymika Tafari and Amar Chadha-Patel.
The series, which marks the first TV series from Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures to go into production, tells the story of Mae Cannon, played by Lister-Jones, a 30-something that finds herself restless inside a marriage that totally works. The series will follow Mae through a fantastical journey of parallel universes, as she enters new relationships, trying to find her way back to her partner, and ultimately, herself.
Hampshire, who is best known for playing Stevie Budd in the Canadian comedy smash, plays Sandy. Hampshire is also currently starring in Epix horror series Chapelwaite, is starring in Amazon’s The Rig and is working with Norman Lear on a remake of Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman for TBS.
- 4/26/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount Plus has released the official trailer for “The Offer,” the upcoming drama miniseries that chronicles the making of “The Godfather.”
Set in the early 1970s, “The Offer” stars Miles Teller as Albert S. Ruddy, who is hired as the producer for the film adaptation of the best-selling novel “The Godfather,” written by Mario Puzo (played by Patrick Gallo). While the series faces typical behind the scenes tension between its director Francis Ford Coppola (Dan Fogler) and producing team, the filming grows more complicated when mob boss Joe Colombo (Giovanni Ribisi) signs on to help assist in the production. In addition to Teller, Gallo, Fogler and Ribisi, the series will also star Matthew Goode, Juno Temple, Burn Gorman and Colin Hanks.
The trailer shows Teller as Ruddy as he assembles the creative team for the film and battles with producers, only for the involvement of the mob to cause the...
Set in the early 1970s, “The Offer” stars Miles Teller as Albert S. Ruddy, who is hired as the producer for the film adaptation of the best-selling novel “The Godfather,” written by Mario Puzo (played by Patrick Gallo). While the series faces typical behind the scenes tension between its director Francis Ford Coppola (Dan Fogler) and producing team, the filming grows more complicated when mob boss Joe Colombo (Giovanni Ribisi) signs on to help assist in the production. In addition to Teller, Gallo, Fogler and Ribisi, the series will also star Matthew Goode, Juno Temple, Burn Gorman and Colin Hanks.
The trailer shows Teller as Ruddy as he assembles the creative team for the film and battles with producers, only for the involvement of the mob to cause the...
- 3/23/2022
- by Sasha Urban and Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Zoe Lister-Jones is set to write, direct, and star in Roku’s Slip, the first-ever production from Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures. Slip, according to the series description, “tells the story of Mae Cannon (Lister-Jones), a 30-something that finds herself restless inside a marriage that totally works. The series will follow Mae through a fantastical journey of parallel universes, as she enters new relationships, trying to find her way back to her partner, and ultimately, herself.” The series was created by the Life In Pieces star, who has previously written, directed, and starred in projects like MGM’s How It Ends, A24’s Disappointment Blvd, and The Craft: Legacy, which she also produced. Boat Rocker studios will develop the series, beginning production in April in Toronto. Slip will stream exclusively on The Roku Channel in the U.S. and Canada. TeaTime Pictures was founded by Johnson and Ro Donnelly. Katie...
- 3/23/2022
- TV Insider
Zoe Lister-Jones has created and will star in a comedy series for Roku.
The Life In Pieces star will also direct seven episodes series Slip for the streaming service. Slip marks the first TV series from Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures to go into production.
It marks the latest non-Quibi original for Roku, which has previously ordered projects including Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas and Weird: The Weird Al Yankovic Story starring Daniel Radcliffe.
Slip, which is set to start production next month in Toronto, will be available on The Roku Channel in the U.S. and Canada.
It tells the story of Mae Cannon, played by Lister-Jones, a 30-something that finds herself restless inside a marriage that totally works. The series will follow Mae through a fantastical journey of parallel universes, as she enters new relationships, trying to find her way back to her partner, and ultimately, herself.
It will be produced by TeaTime Pictures,...
The Life In Pieces star will also direct seven episodes series Slip for the streaming service. Slip marks the first TV series from Dakota Johnson’s TeaTime Pictures to go into production.
It marks the latest non-Quibi original for Roku, which has previously ordered projects including Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas and Weird: The Weird Al Yankovic Story starring Daniel Radcliffe.
Slip, which is set to start production next month in Toronto, will be available on The Roku Channel in the U.S. and Canada.
It tells the story of Mae Cannon, played by Lister-Jones, a 30-something that finds herself restless inside a marriage that totally works. The series will follow Mae through a fantastical journey of parallel universes, as she enters new relationships, trying to find her way back to her partner, and ultimately, herself.
It will be produced by TeaTime Pictures,...
- 3/23/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
“Maid” star Margaret Qualley is set to lead the cast of a love story for Amazon called “The End of Getting Lost,” and “Normal People” actor Paul Mescal is in talks to star as the male lead.
“The End of Getting Lost” is based on an upcoming novel by Robin Kirman, who also wrote the script. Deniz Gamze Ergüven is directing, and Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly are producing the film through her TeaTime Pictures banner.
The film and book are both described as a dark, cunning love tale set against 1990s Europe in which a young couple claims to be on their honeymoon. But after Qualley’s character suffers a mysterious accident, audiences are brought into a dizzying journey that toggles between past and present, husband and wife, to uncover a portrait of love’s power, as well as its dangers. The pair hops borders across Europe as their...
“The End of Getting Lost” is based on an upcoming novel by Robin Kirman, who also wrote the script. Deniz Gamze Ergüven is directing, and Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly are producing the film through her TeaTime Pictures banner.
The film and book are both described as a dark, cunning love tale set against 1990s Europe in which a young couple claims to be on their honeymoon. But after Qualley’s character suffers a mysterious accident, audiences are brought into a dizzying journey that toggles between past and present, husband and wife, to uncover a portrait of love’s power, as well as its dangers. The pair hops borders across Europe as their...
- 2/2/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The deals keep coming at the 2022 Virtual Sundance Film Festival. Mubi closed the docu Free Chol Soo Lee, including North America, and Warner Bros is negotiating a near $7 million WW rights deal for the Tig Notaro/Stephanie Allynne film Am I Ok? to place the film on HBO Max. The Lauren Pomerantz-scripted film stars Dakota Johnson, Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Molly Gordon, and Sean Hayes.
Am I Ok? premiered January 24 and played in the Premieres category. Lucy and Jane have been best friends for most of their lives and think they know everything there is to know about each other. But when Jane announces she’s moving to London, Lucy reveals a longheld secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy, their friendship is thrown into chaos. The film is produced by Stephanie Allynne, Ro Donnelly, Jessica Elbaum, Erik Feig and Will Ferrell, a coproduction between Gloria Sanchez Productions and Picturestart.
Am I Ok? premiered January 24 and played in the Premieres category. Lucy and Jane have been best friends for most of their lives and think they know everything there is to know about each other. But when Jane announces she’s moving to London, Lucy reveals a longheld secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy, their friendship is thrown into chaos. The film is produced by Stephanie Allynne, Ro Donnelly, Jessica Elbaum, Erik Feig and Will Ferrell, a coproduction between Gloria Sanchez Productions and Picturestart.
- 1/29/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
The film is directed by Cooper Raiff, who also stars alongside Dakota Johnson.
Apple has acquired worldwide rights to Cooper Raiff’s Sundance title Cha Cha Real Smooth, in a deal worth a reported $15m, making it the bigges so far at this year’s virtual festival.
The film premiered in the US dramatic competition and stars Raiff as an aimless college student who befriends a young mother played by Dakota Johnson. The cast also includes Leslie Mann, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante, Brad Garett, Raúl Castillo, and Odeya Rush.
Raiff wrote the script and produced alongside Johnson, Ro Donnelly, Erik Feig and Jessica Switch.
Apple has acquired worldwide rights to Cooper Raiff’s Sundance title Cha Cha Real Smooth, in a deal worth a reported $15m, making it the bigges so far at this year’s virtual festival.
The film premiered in the US dramatic competition and stars Raiff as an aimless college student who befriends a young mother played by Dakota Johnson. The cast also includes Leslie Mann, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante, Brad Garett, Raúl Castillo, and Odeya Rush.
Raiff wrote the script and produced alongside Johnson, Ro Donnelly, Erik Feig and Jessica Switch.
- 1/27/2022
- by Orlando Parfitt
- ScreenDaily
Apple has closed the biggest deal of the 2022 Virtual Sundance Film Festival, securing worldwide rights to the Cooper Raiff-directed Cha Cha Real Smooth for around $15 million. The streamer has been the front runner for the picture since it premiered January 23 in the US Dramatic Competition category.
Pic is Raiff’s followup to his 2020 SXSW Grand Jury Prize–winning debut feature Shithouse. He plays a directionless college graduate in New Jersey who gets over his head in a relationship with a young mom and her autistic teenage daughter, as he works a job party-starting bar and bat mitzvahs of his younger brother’s classmates. Co-financed by Picturestart and Endeavor Content, the pic is a real crowd pleaser. It stars Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Leslie Mann, Brad Garrett, Vanessa Burghardt, Raul Castillo and Evan Assante.
Raiff wrote the script and he produced with Johnson, Ro Donnelly, Erik Feig and Jessica Switch. The exec producers are Jeff Valeri,...
Pic is Raiff’s followup to his 2020 SXSW Grand Jury Prize–winning debut feature Shithouse. He plays a directionless college graduate in New Jersey who gets over his head in a relationship with a young mom and her autistic teenage daughter, as he works a job party-starting bar and bat mitzvahs of his younger brother’s classmates. Co-financed by Picturestart and Endeavor Content, the pic is a real crowd pleaser. It stars Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Leslie Mann, Brad Garrett, Vanessa Burghardt, Raul Castillo and Evan Assante.
Raiff wrote the script and he produced with Johnson, Ro Donnelly, Erik Feig and Jessica Switch. The exec producers are Jeff Valeri,...
- 1/27/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Cooper Raiff’s “Cha Cha Real Smooth” is officially dancing to Apple TV Plus. The tech giant has nabbed the second feature from the heat-seeking director out of this year’s virtual edition of the Sundance Film Festival.
Apple emerged victorious from a competitive bidding situation that attracted Netflix, Amazon and Sony Pictures as potential buyers.
The deal was brokered by ICM Partners, WME and Endeavor Content. It closed close to $15 million, an individual familiar with the talks stated.
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” stars Raiff as a recent graduate working as a bar mitzvah hype man. While on the job, he strikes up a unique friendship with a young mother (Dakota Johnson) and her teenage daughter (Vanessa Burghardt). Leslie Mann, Evan Assante, Raúl Castillo and Odeya Rush fill out the ensemble.
Erik Feig’s PictureStart and Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures produced the film alongside Endeavor Content. The...
Apple emerged victorious from a competitive bidding situation that attracted Netflix, Amazon and Sony Pictures as potential buyers.
The deal was brokered by ICM Partners, WME and Endeavor Content. It closed close to $15 million, an individual familiar with the talks stated.
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” stars Raiff as a recent graduate working as a bar mitzvah hype man. While on the job, he strikes up a unique friendship with a young mother (Dakota Johnson) and her teenage daughter (Vanessa Burghardt). Leslie Mann, Evan Assante, Raúl Castillo and Odeya Rush fill out the ensemble.
Erik Feig’s PictureStart and Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures produced the film alongside Endeavor Content. The...
- 1/27/2022
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
With a promising start with his first film Shithouse for which he starred, directed and wrote and won the Grand Jury Narrative Prize at SXSW, Cooper Raiff looms now also to be one of the breakouts of this year’s Sundance Film Festival where Cha Cha Real Smooth, his small but splendid second film for which he performs the same triple threat duties debuted Sunday as part of the Dramatic Competition lineup. I can only imagine if the festival had managed to be in person as originally planned rather than virtual in this Omicron-stricken year it would be met with a massive standing ovation. Raiff is bound to become an indie darling as if further proof was needed, but Cha Cha Real Smooth cements him as the real deal both in front of and behind the camera.
In the wake of Ted Lasso hitting the zeitgeist by centering on a...
In the wake of Ted Lasso hitting the zeitgeist by centering on a...
- 1/23/2022
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Cooper Raiff can’t seem to catch a break from Covid. A hyphenate who comes into Sundance with one of the buzziest acquisitions titles in Cha Cha Real Smooth, Raiff is coming off the debut Shithouse — it’s more thoughtful than it sounds — that won the Grand Jury Prize at 2020 SXSW. Unfortunately, it was also the first major festival forced to cancel in-person events by Austin when Covid exploded. Raiff has made another charming confused young man comes of age film that he wrote, directed, produced and starred in. And now has run smack into Covid Delta’s sequel, Omicron. Which means he’ll keep intact his festival streak of being unable to experience his film playing in a crowded theater, a disadvantage since he makes crowd-pleasing films. The film, which stars Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Leslie Mann, Brad Garrett, Vanessa Burghardt and Evan Assante, makes its virtual Sundance debut tomorrow.
- 1/22/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Many life-defining friendships likely have a moment when the two parties look at one another and say, “This should be a movie.” It so happens that writer Lauren Pomerantz and producer Jessica Elbaum, best friends since 2004, had the skill set to make that happen.
The sisterly bond shared by the women is the basis for “Am I Ok?,” one of the most anticipated titles premiering at this year’s virtual Sundance Film Festival. The indie stars Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno, surrogates for Pomerantz and Elbaum respectively, and is directed by work and life partners Stephanie Allynne and Tig Notaro. The film is the kind of bittersweet indie the festival is known for highlighting, with a message about the need to live in truth.
Pomerantz had settled into her comedy-writing career by the end of her 20s, contributing to “Saturday Night Live” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” At 30, however, something...
The sisterly bond shared by the women is the basis for “Am I Ok?,” one of the most anticipated titles premiering at this year’s virtual Sundance Film Festival. The indie stars Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno, surrogates for Pomerantz and Elbaum respectively, and is directed by work and life partners Stephanie Allynne and Tig Notaro. The film is the kind of bittersweet indie the festival is known for highlighting, with a message about the need to live in truth.
Pomerantz had settled into her comedy-writing career by the end of her 20s, contributing to “Saturday Night Live” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” At 30, however, something...
- 1/21/2022
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Boat Rocker has acquired a minority equity stake in TeaTime Pictures, founded by Dakota Johnson and former Netflix executive Ro Donnelly, which has had a first-look deal with the Canadian TV studio since 2019. Under the agreement, Boat Rocker will extend its current first-look deal with TeaTime to develop and produce scripted and unscripted television and digital content.
Katie O’Connell Marsh is stepping down as Vice-Chair of Boat Rocker effective January 2022 and will be joining TeaTime as a partner. Additionally, O’Connell Marsh has signed an overall deal with Boat Rocker to focus on adding scripted projects to the studio’s roster.
“Dakota and Ro are building TeaTime into a cultural platform with massive creative and commercial promise. The addition of Katie’s experience and acumen to this growing enterprise will undoubtedly supercharge TeaTime’s existing robust slate and ambitions,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen,...
Katie O’Connell Marsh is stepping down as Vice-Chair of Boat Rocker effective January 2022 and will be joining TeaTime as a partner. Additionally, O’Connell Marsh has signed an overall deal with Boat Rocker to focus on adding scripted projects to the studio’s roster.
“Dakota and Ro are building TeaTime into a cultural platform with massive creative and commercial promise. The addition of Katie’s experience and acumen to this growing enterprise will undoubtedly supercharge TeaTime’s existing robust slate and ambitions,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen,...
- 12/20/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Taking place online and in person, the Sundance Film Festival will return for its 2022 edition January 20th through 30th and now the main lineup has been unveiled. With 82 feature-length films representing 28 countries, these films were selected from 14,849 submissions, including 3,762 feature-length films.
Notable titles include Ramin Bahrani’s 2nd Chance, Lena Dunham’s Sharp Stick, Riley Stearns’ Dual, Ricky D’Ambrose’s The Cathedral, two Dakota Johnson-led films, Cha Cha Real Smooth and Am I Ok?, the Bill Nighy-led Ikiru remake Living, Sierra Pettengill’s Riotsville, USA, Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead’s Something in the Dirt, Phyllis Nagy’s Call Jane, W. Kamau Bell’s We Need to Talk About Cosby, Jesse Eisenberg’s When You Finish Saving the World, Kogonada’s After Yang, James Ponsoldt’s Summering, and more.
“The online dimension of the festival was something that after, having done it last year, we valued greatly,” says Tabitha Jackson,...
Notable titles include Ramin Bahrani’s 2nd Chance, Lena Dunham’s Sharp Stick, Riley Stearns’ Dual, Ricky D’Ambrose’s The Cathedral, two Dakota Johnson-led films, Cha Cha Real Smooth and Am I Ok?, the Bill Nighy-led Ikiru remake Living, Sierra Pettengill’s Riotsville, USA, Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead’s Something in the Dirt, Phyllis Nagy’s Call Jane, W. Kamau Bell’s We Need to Talk About Cosby, Jesse Eisenberg’s When You Finish Saving the World, Kogonada’s After Yang, James Ponsoldt’s Summering, and more.
“The online dimension of the festival was something that after, having done it last year, we valued greatly,” says Tabitha Jackson,...
- 12/9/2021
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Firstly, it seems like something of a miracle that any film will be premiering at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. Like, in-person, in theaters, in Park City. After launching an ambitious — and quite popular — hybrid festival for its 2021 edition, the annual event is preparing for a slightly more traditional event in 2022. As announced earlier this year, online screenings will still take place in 2022, but Park City is readying to mount a larger in-person event as well.
And while we can’t wait for that, there’s a whole pack of other eager would-be Sundance attendees feeling a very different kind of anticipation these days: the filmmakers. While the end of November spells the start of holiday time for most, it also comes with a particular anxiety for those who have submitted their film to the fest. As we approach the inevitable lineup announcements, we’ve done our usual scouting around to...
And while we can’t wait for that, there’s a whole pack of other eager would-be Sundance attendees feeling a very different kind of anticipation these days: the filmmakers. While the end of November spells the start of holiday time for most, it also comes with a particular anxiety for those who have submitted their film to the fest. As we approach the inevitable lineup announcements, we’ve done our usual scouting around to...
- 11/22/2021
- by Kate Erbland and Eric Kohn
- Indiewire
Brothers Shamier Anderson and Stephan James have struck a first-look deal with Boat Rocker, ahead of starring in the company’s upcoming series “Invasion” and “Beacon 23,” respectively. The two will develop and produce original television projects via their Bay Mills Studios production banner. Anderson and James’ banner joins other first-look deals struck by Boat Rocker, including Lena Headey’s Peephole Productions, Stephanie Langhoff’s High Tide Productions and TeaTime Pictures with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly.
“Shamier and Stephan are true creative forces,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen, Boat Rocker Media, and co-chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios, in a statement. “As actors, producers, business leaders and activists, they are breaking new ground and achieving new heights. Everybody at Boat Rocker is thrilled to be partnering with them as they embark on telling the stories they want to tell to the world. Stephan’s and Shamier’s unabating...
“Shamier and Stephan are true creative forces,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, co-executive chairmen, Boat Rocker Media, and co-chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios, in a statement. “As actors, producers, business leaders and activists, they are breaking new ground and achieving new heights. Everybody at Boat Rocker is thrilled to be partnering with them as they embark on telling the stories they want to tell to the world. Stephan’s and Shamier’s unabating...
- 10/5/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Boat Rocker is expanding its relationship with brothers Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, stars of Boat Rocker’s anticipated series Invasion and Beacon 23, respectively, with a first-look deal. Under the pact, the brothers will develop and produce original television projects for the company under their Bay Mills Studios banner.
“Shamier and Stephan are true creative forces,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “As actors, producers, business leaders and activists, they are breaking new ground and achieving new heights. Everybody at Boat Rocker is thrilled to be partnering with them as they embark on telling the stories they want to tell to the world. Stephan’s and Shamier’s unabating energy and enthusiasm combined with their talent and creativity make the potential behind this venture truly special.”
Anderson stars in Simon Kinberg’s epic upcoming Boat Rocker-produced series, Invasion, for...
“Shamier and Stephan are true creative forces,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “As actors, producers, business leaders and activists, they are breaking new ground and achieving new heights. Everybody at Boat Rocker is thrilled to be partnering with them as they embark on telling the stories they want to tell to the world. Stephan’s and Shamier’s unabating energy and enthusiasm combined with their talent and creativity make the potential behind this venture truly special.”
Anderson stars in Simon Kinberg’s epic upcoming Boat Rocker-produced series, Invasion, for...
- 10/5/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Stephanie Langhoff, exec producer of Starz’ Vida and former Duplass Brothers Productions President, has launched her own production company and struck a first-look deal with Boat Rocker.
Langhoff, who exec produced series including Togetherness during her time with the Duplass brothers, has set up High Tide Productions. She will develop TV, digital projects and feature films under the deal.
It is the latest partnership for the American Rust and Invasion producer, which has struck first-look deals with the likes of Lena Headey’s Peephole Productions and TeaTime Pictures with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly.
As President of Jay and Mark Duplass’ firm, Langhoff also produced films including Jeff, Who Lives at Home and The Do-Deca-Pentathlon as well as The Bronze, The Skeleton Twins, and Safety Not Guaranteed. Prior to that she was an executive at Revolution Studios in New York.
“Stephanie is a formidable producer with a strong track record...
Langhoff, who exec produced series including Togetherness during her time with the Duplass brothers, has set up High Tide Productions. She will develop TV, digital projects and feature films under the deal.
It is the latest partnership for the American Rust and Invasion producer, which has struck first-look deals with the likes of Lena Headey’s Peephole Productions and TeaTime Pictures with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly.
As President of Jay and Mark Duplass’ firm, Langhoff also produced films including Jeff, Who Lives at Home and The Do-Deca-Pentathlon as well as The Bronze, The Skeleton Twins, and Safety Not Guaranteed. Prior to that she was an executive at Revolution Studios in New York.
“Stephanie is a formidable producer with a strong track record...
- 9/9/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Dakota Johnson indie “Cha Cha Real Smooth” has added seven stars to its supporting cast, as production kicks off Thursday in Pittsburgh.
Leslie Mann, Brad Garrett, Raúl Castillo, Odeya Rush, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante and Colton Osorio have all joined the film project from writer-director-star Cooper Raiff.
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” follows a directionless college grad embarking on a relationship with a young mom and her teenage daughter, all while learning the boundaries of his new gig as a bar mitzvah hype man. Erik Feig’s Picturestart, Endeavor Content, and Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures are producing. Financing is from Picturestart and Endeavor Content, and the latter is co-repping worldwide distribution rights with ICM Partners.
The feature comes on the heels of Raiff’s debut “Shithouse,” which won the 2020 SXSW Grand Jury Prize.
“We are thrilled to begin production on this heartwarming, heartbreaking, heart-pumping and unique film of Cooper Raiff’s,...
Leslie Mann, Brad Garrett, Raúl Castillo, Odeya Rush, Vanessa Burghardt, Evan Assante and Colton Osorio have all joined the film project from writer-director-star Cooper Raiff.
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” follows a directionless college grad embarking on a relationship with a young mom and her teenage daughter, all while learning the boundaries of his new gig as a bar mitzvah hype man. Erik Feig’s Picturestart, Endeavor Content, and Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures are producing. Financing is from Picturestart and Endeavor Content, and the latter is co-repping worldwide distribution rights with ICM Partners.
The feature comes on the heels of Raiff’s debut “Shithouse,” which won the 2020 SXSW Grand Jury Prize.
“We are thrilled to begin production on this heartwarming, heartbreaking, heart-pumping and unique film of Cooper Raiff’s,...
- 8/12/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Here’s another lucrative package set to hit the Cannes market as We are hearing Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn are attached to star in Daddio with Christy Hall on board to write and direct. Endeavor Content will launch worldwide sales at Cannes with CAA Media Finance co-repping the U.S. Johnson will also produce the pic alongside Ro Donnelly through their TeaTime Pictures with Emma Tillinger Koskoff also on board to produce. Hall is also on board to produce.
The film follows a young woman, who after landing at JFK airport in New York City, jumps into the backseat of a yellow taxi. The cabbie, Clark, throws the vehicle into drive and the two head out into the night… striking up the most unexpected conversation. What begins as amusing chit chat quickly takes a turn towards mysterious and playful, then grows into viscerally honest revelations about relationships, sex and power dynamics,...
The film follows a young woman, who after landing at JFK airport in New York City, jumps into the backseat of a yellow taxi. The cabbie, Clark, throws the vehicle into drive and the two head out into the night… striking up the most unexpected conversation. What begins as amusing chit chat quickly takes a turn towards mysterious and playful, then grows into viscerally honest revelations about relationships, sex and power dynamics,...
- 6/16/2021
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Following a competitive bidding situation, Picturestart and Endeavor Content are set to co-finance and produce Cha Cha Real Smooth. Cooper Raiff, whose debut film Shithouse won the Grand Jury Prize at last year’s SXSW, will direct a script he has written. Raiff will star with Dakota Johnson.
Raiff will produce with Johnson and her TeaTime Pictures partner Ro Donnelly. Johnson this week wrapped Am I Ok?, which Picturestart financed, and produced with Johnson.
Endeavor Content is handling global sales with ICM Partners. Production is set to begin this summer.
In the film, Raiff takes a job as a bar mitzvah party starter — a guy who gets the young crowd dancing and having fun — while he separately strikes up a friendship with a young mother (Johnson) and her autistic daughter.
Jessica Switch and Julia Hammer are overseeing the project for Picturestart.
Raiff, who wrote, directed, produced, starred in and edited Shithouse,...
Raiff will produce with Johnson and her TeaTime Pictures partner Ro Donnelly. Johnson this week wrapped Am I Ok?, which Picturestart financed, and produced with Johnson.
Endeavor Content is handling global sales with ICM Partners. Production is set to begin this summer.
In the film, Raiff takes a job as a bar mitzvah party starter — a guy who gets the young crowd dancing and having fun — while he separately strikes up a friendship with a young mother (Johnson) and her autistic daughter.
Jessica Switch and Julia Hammer are overseeing the project for Picturestart.
Raiff, who wrote, directed, produced, starred in and edited Shithouse,...
- 3/12/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: We have learned that the Tig Notaro- and Stephanie Allynne-directed feature film Am I Ok? had to stop production here in Los Angeles after a person involved with the movie was diagnosed with Covid-19.
Dakota Johnson stars in the Lauren Pomerantz-scripted movie that follows lifelong best friends Lucy and Jane. However, when Jane announces she’s moving from Los Angeles to London for a job, Lucy reveals a deeply buried, long-held secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy sort through old patterns and new feelings, their lifelong friendship is thrown into chaos.
Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Whitmer Thomas, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael, Notaro and Sean Hayes also star.
Said a production spokesperson, “Earlier this week a supporting member from production on our film Am I Ok? tested positive for Covid-19. The diagnosis was confirmed as a result of required and ongoing testing that all members of production receive.
Dakota Johnson stars in the Lauren Pomerantz-scripted movie that follows lifelong best friends Lucy and Jane. However, when Jane announces she’s moving from Los Angeles to London for a job, Lucy reveals a deeply buried, long-held secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy sort through old patterns and new feelings, their lifelong friendship is thrown into chaos.
Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Whitmer Thomas, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael, Notaro and Sean Hayes also star.
Said a production spokesperson, “Earlier this week a supporting member from production on our film Am I Ok? tested positive for Covid-19. The diagnosis was confirmed as a result of required and ongoing testing that all members of production receive.
- 2/5/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Dakota Johnson is among a slew of actors joining a new feature film from co-directors Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne, which marks the first solo financing effort from Erik Feig’s company Picturestart.
The project, titled “Am I Ok?,” will see Johnson co-star alongside Sonoya Mizuno, “Coming 2 America” star Jermaine Fowler, Whitmer Thomas, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael, Notaro and Sean Hayes.
The film follows lifelong best friends Lucy and Jane, who are convinced they know everything there is to know about each other. When Jane announces she’s moving from L.A. to London for a job, Lucy reveals a deeply buried, long-held secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy sort through old patterns and new feelings, their bond is thrown into chaos.
Lauren Pomerantz wrote the script, which is set to start shooting on Feb. 1 in Los Angeles. Jessica Elbaum and Will Ferrell will produce through their Gloria Sanchez Productions,...
The project, titled “Am I Ok?,” will see Johnson co-star alongside Sonoya Mizuno, “Coming 2 America” star Jermaine Fowler, Whitmer Thomas, Molly Gordon, June Diane Raphael, Notaro and Sean Hayes.
The film follows lifelong best friends Lucy and Jane, who are convinced they know everything there is to know about each other. When Jane announces she’s moving from L.A. to London for a job, Lucy reveals a deeply buried, long-held secret. As Jane tries to help Lucy sort through old patterns and new feelings, their bond is thrown into chaos.
Lauren Pomerantz wrote the script, which is set to start shooting on Feb. 1 in Los Angeles. Jessica Elbaum and Will Ferrell will produce through their Gloria Sanchez Productions,...
- 1/28/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Platform One Media has struck a first-look deal with Peephole Productions, the production company run by Game of Thrones star Lena Headey.
The Boat Rocker company will work with actor, who played Cersei Lannister in the hit HBO drama and also recently starred in Fighting with my Family, to develop scripted and unscripted TV and digital projects.
Headey, who recently wrapped action thriller Gunpowder Milkshake directed by Navot Papushado and has joined the voice cast of sci-fi animation series New-Gen, based on the Marvel comic book series, will executive produce on all projects under the deal with Platform One Media.
Peephole Productions co-produced Headey’s BAFTA-nominated short The Trap and will produce the feature length version in 2021.
It is the latest first-look deal struck by Platform One Media, which is run by Chairman and CEO Katie O’Connell Marsh. The firm has inked deals with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures,...
The Boat Rocker company will work with actor, who played Cersei Lannister in the hit HBO drama and also recently starred in Fighting with my Family, to develop scripted and unscripted TV and digital projects.
Headey, who recently wrapped action thriller Gunpowder Milkshake directed by Navot Papushado and has joined the voice cast of sci-fi animation series New-Gen, based on the Marvel comic book series, will executive produce on all projects under the deal with Platform One Media.
Peephole Productions co-produced Headey’s BAFTA-nominated short The Trap and will produce the feature length version in 2021.
It is the latest first-look deal struck by Platform One Media, which is run by Chairman and CEO Katie O’Connell Marsh. The firm has inked deals with Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s TeaTime Pictures,...
- 11/12/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Platform One Media, a Boat Rocker company, has optioned writer Bexy Cameron’s upcoming memoir Cult Following, with Dakota Johnson and Riley Keough (Logan Lucky) attached to star and executive produce through Johnson and Ro Donnelly’s production company TeaTime Pictures and Keough and Gina Gammell’s production company Felix Culpa.
The project stems from TeaTime Pictures’ first look deal with Platform One.
“We were so happy that TeaTime introduced us to Bexy’s incredible story,” said Katie O’Connell Marsh, Platform One Media Chairman and CEO. “It’s rare to find writing so pure and captivating and this project is an incredible opportunity to bring a truly unique journey to life with two of the most talented actors working today and the fact that Dakota and Riley have been best friends since they were 15 is an incredibly exciting chemistry to bring to screen.
The project stems from TeaTime Pictures’ first look deal with Platform One.
“We were so happy that TeaTime introduced us to Bexy’s incredible story,” said Katie O’Connell Marsh, Platform One Media Chairman and CEO. “It’s rare to find writing so pure and captivating and this project is an incredible opportunity to bring a truly unique journey to life with two of the most talented actors working today and the fact that Dakota and Riley have been best friends since they were 15 is an incredibly exciting chemistry to bring to screen.
- 10/29/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
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