The drama is about a professional people smuggler who tries to save a 12-year-old girl whose family has gone missing in the Syrian war.
LevelK has boarded international sales for Exodus, the debut feature by Sweden’s Abbe Hassan.
The fast-paced drama is about a professional people smuggler who tries to save a 12-year-old girl whose family has gone missing in the Syrian war.
Mattias Nohrborg and Anna-Klara Carlsten produce for B-Reel Films.
Backers include the Swedish Film Institute, Svt, Dr, Nrk, Yle, Film i Vast, the Nordisk Film & TV Fond and Netflix (which has Swedish SVOD rights).
Hassan,...
LevelK has boarded international sales for Exodus, the debut feature by Sweden’s Abbe Hassan.
The fast-paced drama is about a professional people smuggler who tries to save a 12-year-old girl whose family has gone missing in the Syrian war.
Mattias Nohrborg and Anna-Klara Carlsten produce for B-Reel Films.
Backers include the Swedish Film Institute, Svt, Dr, Nrk, Yle, Film i Vast, the Nordisk Film & TV Fond and Netflix (which has Swedish SVOD rights).
Hassan,...
- 5/3/2022
- by Wendy Mitchell
- ScreenDaily
‘Midsommar’ Producers to Make ‘The Helicopter Heist’ Series with Ronnie Sandahl on Board (Exclusive)
B-Reel Films, the Swedish banner behind “Midsommar,” is set to produce a thriller series based on Jonas Bonnier’s true crime novel “The Helicopter Heist,” and has attached Ronnie Sandahl (“Borg vs McEnroe”) as creator and writer.
Boasting offices in Stockholm and Los Angeles, B-Reel has secured the rights to the popular novel from Swedish literary agency Salomonsson, and is adapting it into an eight-episode, character-driven suspense series. Rights to the novel were previously acquired by Jake Gyllenhaal’s Nine Stories banner in 2016, where it was being developed as a feature, but the project fell through.
The plot is based on the true story of four young Swedes who orchestrated the one of the most spectacular daylight heists of all time in 2009 and used a stolen Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter to land on the roof of a G4S cash service depot building in in Stockholm. They stole more than 4 million in cash.
Boasting offices in Stockholm and Los Angeles, B-Reel has secured the rights to the popular novel from Swedish literary agency Salomonsson, and is adapting it into an eight-episode, character-driven suspense series. Rights to the novel were previously acquired by Jake Gyllenhaal’s Nine Stories banner in 2016, where it was being developed as a feature, but the project fell through.
The plot is based on the true story of four young Swedes who orchestrated the one of the most spectacular daylight heists of all time in 2009 and used a stolen Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter to land on the roof of a G4S cash service depot building in in Stockholm. They stole more than 4 million in cash.
- 5/2/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy and Annika Pham
- Variety Film + TV
Hulu’s docuseries on Victoria’s Secret has been added to its summer slate. “Victoria’s Secret: Angels and Demons” will debut on the streamer in July.
The docuseries dives deep into the brand and its former CEO, Les Wexner.
“Truth is not what it seems; as the underworld of fashion, the billionaire class, and Jeffrey Epstein are revealed to all be inextricably intertwined with the fall of this legendary brand,” a logline for the series reads.
Journalist Matt Tyrnauer directs the series. He also executive produces alongside his Altimeter Films partner Corey Reeser, as well as Elizabeth Rogers and Jennifer Ewing. Film 45’s Peter Berg, Matt Goldberg and Brandon Carroll also executive produce.
Prior to its launch on Hulu, “Victoria’s Secret: Angels and Demons” will premiere at the 2022 Tribeca Festival June 18.
The series hits the streamer on July 14.
The series, originally titled “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret,...
The docuseries dives deep into the brand and its former CEO, Les Wexner.
“Truth is not what it seems; as the underworld of fashion, the billionaire class, and Jeffrey Epstein are revealed to all be inextricably intertwined with the fall of this legendary brand,” a logline for the series reads.
Journalist Matt Tyrnauer directs the series. He also executive produces alongside his Altimeter Films partner Corey Reeser, as well as Elizabeth Rogers and Jennifer Ewing. Film 45’s Peter Berg, Matt Goldberg and Brandon Carroll also executive produce.
Prior to its launch on Hulu, “Victoria’s Secret: Angels and Demons” will premiere at the 2022 Tribeca Festival June 18.
The series hits the streamer on July 14.
The series, originally titled “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret,...
- 4/21/2022
- by Katie Campione
- The Wrap
“I Am Greta” director Nathan Grossman will be taking two new projects in development to the Copenhagen Intl. Documentary Film Festival (Cph:Dox), one of which he’s revealed exclusively to Variety.
The documentary feature, with the working title “Amazonia,” follows a series of expeditions into the Amazon led by Sydney Possuelo, considered the leading authority on Brazil’s remaining isolated indigenous peoples. Grossman has been granted exclusive access to more than 100 hours of footage, which spans over a decade from the mid-‘90s and includes the first encounter with an uncontacted indigenous group.
“It’s a forgotten archive,” says the director. “We’re talking exclusive access to one of the biggest unseen archives from the Amazon region, following years of expeditions in the jungle to find indigenous tribes.”
The film – which Grossman describes as an “Indiana Jones”-style “adventure in the jungle” utilizing never-before-seen footage – touches on themes that...
The documentary feature, with the working title “Amazonia,” follows a series of expeditions into the Amazon led by Sydney Possuelo, considered the leading authority on Brazil’s remaining isolated indigenous peoples. Grossman has been granted exclusive access to more than 100 hours of footage, which spans over a decade from the mid-‘90s and includes the first encounter with an uncontacted indigenous group.
“It’s a forgotten archive,” says the director. “We’re talking exclusive access to one of the biggest unseen archives from the Amazon region, following years of expeditions in the jungle to find indigenous tribes.”
The film – which Grossman describes as an “Indiana Jones”-style “adventure in the jungle” utilizing never-before-seen footage – touches on themes that...
- 3/25/2022
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Copenhagen Intl. Documentary Film Festival, which runs March 21-April 3, has revealed the lineup for its international financing and co-production event Cph:forum.
Women are taking central stage in the lineup both as characters and storytellers, and the Forum will feature new projects by Jialing Zhang (“One Child Nation”), Ilinca Calugareanu (“Chuck Norris vs. Communism”), Tova Mozard (“Psychic”), Elizabeth Lo (“Stray”) and Lana Wilson (“Miss Americana”) among others.
The selection of 30 projects in this year’s Cph:forum represents a variety of topics, genres and artistic approaches from a diverse group of filmmakers. According to the festival, “Seeking to demonstrate the richness and heterogeneity of the documentary genre, Cph:forum presents a curated slate of films that speak to the major issues of the world we live in.”
Topics of race, equity and colonial legacy connect a personal film of Barbadian filmmaker Jason Fitzroy Jeffers (“Papa Machete”), and the newest project of the Dutch...
Women are taking central stage in the lineup both as characters and storytellers, and the Forum will feature new projects by Jialing Zhang (“One Child Nation”), Ilinca Calugareanu (“Chuck Norris vs. Communism”), Tova Mozard (“Psychic”), Elizabeth Lo (“Stray”) and Lana Wilson (“Miss Americana”) among others.
The selection of 30 projects in this year’s Cph:forum represents a variety of topics, genres and artistic approaches from a diverse group of filmmakers. According to the festival, “Seeking to demonstrate the richness and heterogeneity of the documentary genre, Cph:forum presents a curated slate of films that speak to the major issues of the world we live in.”
Topics of race, equity and colonial legacy connect a personal film of Barbadian filmmaker Jason Fitzroy Jeffers (“Papa Machete”), and the newest project of the Dutch...
- 2/10/2022
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Management and production company Inner Voice Artists (Iva) is teaming with a pair of environmental activists on a docuseries that will explore topics including climate change, mental health and social justice.
The 8×30 series YouthMundus: Investigations with Lilly Platt and Céline Cousteau will follow 13-year-old Platt, one of the world’s youngest recognized environmentalists who is known for her campaign against plastic waste in the UK, and her mentor Cousteau, a reputed socio-environmental advocate known for her documentary work (as well as being the daughter of Jean-Michel Cousteau and granddaughter of Jacques Cousteau).
In the show, Platt will team up with a roster of activists and influencers as they discuss possible solutions to the problems the Earth is facing, with each episode pinned to a specific industry and how it impacts the environment, such as the restaurant industry and the film business. The end of the season will see Platt...
The 8×30 series YouthMundus: Investigations with Lilly Platt and Céline Cousteau will follow 13-year-old Platt, one of the world’s youngest recognized environmentalists who is known for her campaign against plastic waste in the UK, and her mentor Cousteau, a reputed socio-environmental advocate known for her documentary work (as well as being the daughter of Jean-Michel Cousteau and granddaughter of Jacques Cousteau).
In the show, Platt will team up with a roster of activists and influencers as they discuss possible solutions to the problems the Earth is facing, with each episode pinned to a specific industry and how it impacts the environment, such as the restaurant industry and the film business. The end of the season will see Platt...
- 11/24/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Hulu has promoted two executives Ashley Chang and Beth Osisek in its originals team.
Chang has been promoted to VP, Content Development, Drama and Osisek has been upped to VP, Original Documentaries and Limited Series.
Chang, who was previously director of drama, reports to head of drama Sasha Silver. She worked on series including Michael Keaton’s Dopesick, Conversations with Friends, Washington Black and Love, Victor.
She is currently serving as the co-chair of Disney’s Creative Inclusion Council, established by Bob Iger in 2020, and prior to joining Hulu was a senior director of development at Funny Or Die, where she served as a producer on the Netflix’s American Vandal.
“Ashley has been an instrumental part of the team since the day she joined. She is incredible with talent, has a keen eye for material and, beyond that, is ridiculously kind, to the benefit of every one of her colleagues and creative partners.
Chang has been promoted to VP, Content Development, Drama and Osisek has been upped to VP, Original Documentaries and Limited Series.
Chang, who was previously director of drama, reports to head of drama Sasha Silver. She worked on series including Michael Keaton’s Dopesick, Conversations with Friends, Washington Black and Love, Victor.
She is currently serving as the co-chair of Disney’s Creative Inclusion Council, established by Bob Iger in 2020, and prior to joining Hulu was a senior director of development at Funny Or Die, where she served as a producer on the Netflix’s American Vandal.
“Ashley has been an instrumental part of the team since the day she joined. She is incredible with talent, has a keen eye for material and, beyond that, is ridiculously kind, to the benefit of every one of her colleagues and creative partners.
- 10/26/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Peacock announced that the new docuseries “Paris in Love” will begin streaming Nov. 11, with new episodes dropping every following Thursday.
The 13-part wedding series will follow Hilton as she discovers the road to the altar has a few unexpected turns along the way as she prepares to marry successful venture capitalist Carter Reum. In the midst of planning for the wedding, fans will watch as Hilton navigates adulthood, a demanding work schedule and plans for her future. Hilton’s mother Kathy Hilton and sister Rothschild Hilton will support her through it all, from her engagement part to bridal dress shopping to the bachelor and bachelorette party in Las Vegas.
From Warner Bros. Unscripted Television in association with Shed Media, Telepictures and Slivington Manor Entertainment, “Paris in Love” is executive produced by Mike Darnell, Lisa Shannon, Dan Peirson, Bridgette Theriault, Andrea Metz, Perry Dance, Paris Hilton and Bruce Gersh. Watch a trailer for the series below.
The 13-part wedding series will follow Hilton as she discovers the road to the altar has a few unexpected turns along the way as she prepares to marry successful venture capitalist Carter Reum. In the midst of planning for the wedding, fans will watch as Hilton navigates adulthood, a demanding work schedule and plans for her future. Hilton’s mother Kathy Hilton and sister Rothschild Hilton will support her through it all, from her engagement part to bridal dress shopping to the bachelor and bachelorette party in Las Vegas.
From Warner Bros. Unscripted Television in association with Shed Media, Telepictures and Slivington Manor Entertainment, “Paris in Love” is executive produced by Mike Darnell, Lisa Shannon, Dan Peirson, Bridgette Theriault, Andrea Metz, Perry Dance, Paris Hilton and Bruce Gersh. Watch a trailer for the series below.
- 10/26/2021
- by Katie Song
- Variety Film + TV
Jeff Goldblum has signed on to host the 2021 Environmental Media Association (Ema) Awards gala, which will celebrate a new slate of television and film titles that address climate change, sustainability and other environmental topics.
The Ema Awards Gala will return for an in-person ceremony on Saturday, October 16 at Gearbox LA. Ema has also revealed that it will honor Ed Begley Jr. with its Lifetime Achievement Award, Hip Hop Caucus its Global Justice Award, Tom Steyer the Ongoing Commitment Award and Karla Welch and Sasha Markova the Innovator Award.
“This is a special year for the 2021 Environmental Media Association’s Awards & Honors Gala,” said Goldblum. “I’m thrilled to be able to host as well as to present the Ema Lifetime Achievement Award to my dear friend of over 45 years, Ed Begley Jr. There is no one in the environmental community that has made a greater impact than Ed. He has...
The Ema Awards Gala will return for an in-person ceremony on Saturday, October 16 at Gearbox LA. Ema has also revealed that it will honor Ed Begley Jr. with its Lifetime Achievement Award, Hip Hop Caucus its Global Justice Award, Tom Steyer the Ongoing Commitment Award and Karla Welch and Sasha Markova the Innovator Award.
“This is a special year for the 2021 Environmental Media Association’s Awards & Honors Gala,” said Goldblum. “I’m thrilled to be able to host as well as to present the Ema Lifetime Achievement Award to my dear friend of over 45 years, Ed Begley Jr. There is no one in the environmental community that has made a greater impact than Ed. He has...
- 9/15/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Jonas Poher Rasmussen’s animated documentary “Flee” – already awarded at Sundance and Annecy – was granted the Grand Prix – Bank Millennium Award at the 18th edition of Millennium Docs Against Gravity, which will continue online from September 16 until October 3. Jurors Agnieszka Holland, Christian Frei and Tomasz Wolski were taken by the story of a man who, about to marry his husband, decides to finally open up about his refugee past. The film also picked up the “Zwierciadło” award for the Best Film on Psychology.
“This film speaks about a real, extremely important subject in an artistically powerful, compelling, and complex way,” it was argued. “The original form, the sincerity of the main character, the lack of sentimentality and its strong emotional content make it not only an attractive movie for the wider audience, but also an important statement about the real situation of today’s refugees, helping us to understand their...
“This film speaks about a real, extremely important subject in an artistically powerful, compelling, and complex way,” it was argued. “The original form, the sincerity of the main character, the lack of sentimentality and its strong emotional content make it not only an attractive movie for the wider audience, but also an important statement about the real situation of today’s refugees, helping us to understand their...
- 9/10/2021
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Poland’s documentary festival Millennium Docs Against Gravity is set to finally come of age after postponing its 18th edition due to Covid-19 restrictions, originally slated to take place in May. Once again unspooling in seven different cities between Sept. 3-12, with local authorities sponsoring their own respective awards, the event will then continue online, wrapping on Oct. 3.
“The government’s decision to, so to speak, ‘liberate cinemas’ came too late,” says founder Artur Liebhart, explaining the change. “But we have not given up on our audience, not even for a moment. Most documentary festivals cater to the needs of the industry but to us, the audience and their willingness to participate is the absolute priority.”
The festival’s collaboration with cinemas all over Poland is “based on mutual respect,” says Liebhart, which is why it forgoes the usual hybrid model. “First, we will watch films on 42 screens and only then will we move online,...
“The government’s decision to, so to speak, ‘liberate cinemas’ came too late,” says founder Artur Liebhart, explaining the change. “But we have not given up on our audience, not even for a moment. Most documentary festivals cater to the needs of the industry but to us, the audience and their willingness to participate is the absolute priority.”
The festival’s collaboration with cinemas all over Poland is “based on mutual respect,” says Liebhart, which is why it forgoes the usual hybrid model. “First, we will watch films on 42 screens and only then will we move online,...
- 9/5/2021
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
‘Becoming Cousteau’ Review: Jacques Cousteau’s Undersea World Comes Alive in Liz Garbus’ Documentary
Whether you watched his films and television shows or are simply familiar with his kicky red hat, it’s hard to imagine anyone who doesn’t know the name of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. The Frenchman brought the living world of the oceans into people’s homes and was an early celebrity voice emphasizing the horrors of climate change. But
For many, Cousteau is just the name of a man associated with the oceans, and it’s easy to see the possibility that a splashy outing from a prominent documentarian will do much to bring the man back to prominence. Garbus deftly handles the more educational elements of his life — including the creation of the Aqualung and Cousteau’s discussion of changes in the ocean — with the story of what made him a celebrity. A news segment within the doc notes that, at one point, Cousteau is right there alongside...
For many, Cousteau is just the name of a man associated with the oceans, and it’s easy to see the possibility that a splashy outing from a prominent documentarian will do much to bring the man back to prominence. Garbus deftly handles the more educational elements of his life — including the creation of the Aqualung and Cousteau’s discussion of changes in the ocean — with the story of what made him a celebrity. A news segment within the doc notes that, at one point, Cousteau is right there alongside...
- 9/3/2021
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
Climate change activist Greta Thunberg has said more stories need to be told about the climate change crisis.
Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival on Tuesday alongside Norwegian crime writer Jo Nesbo, Thunberg encouraged attendees to turn their attention to the environment in their work.
“I know so many — whether it is artists, storytellers, journalists — who tell me they really want to write about [the climate crisis], they really want to make stories about this, report about this, make movies about it, make art about this, but that they don’t really have that support in order to do that,” she said. “So I think yes, there’s a big lack of storytelling when it comes to the climate crisis, whether it is fictional or whether it is reflecting the reality as it looks like today.”
“I think if we would start writing about this, if we were making stories about this, I...
Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival on Tuesday alongside Norwegian crime writer Jo Nesbo, Thunberg encouraged attendees to turn their attention to the environment in their work.
“I know so many — whether it is artists, storytellers, journalists — who tell me they really want to write about [the climate crisis], they really want to make stories about this, report about this, make movies about it, make art about this, but that they don’t really have that support in order to do that,” she said. “So I think yes, there’s a big lack of storytelling when it comes to the climate crisis, whether it is fictional or whether it is reflecting the reality as it looks like today.”
“I think if we would start writing about this, if we were making stories about this, I...
- 8/24/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Updated with trailer: Hulu is continuing its documentary push. The streamer has landed the U.S. rights to Homeroom, a feature doc from Peter Nicks and exec produced by Ryan Coogler. Watch the first trailer above and see the key art below.
Homeroom, which was an official selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, is the final chapter in a trilogy of films examining the relationship between health care, criminal justice, and education in Oakland, CA over the past decade.
Nicks previously directed 2012’s The Waiting Room, set in a public hospital, and 2017’s The Force, which covers the troubled Oakland Police Department, both of which will also be streaming on Hulu.
The film follows Oakland High School’s class of 2020 as they confront an unprecedented year. Anxiety over test scores and college applications gives way to uncertainty springing from a rapidly developing pandemic. Efforts to eliminate the school...
Homeroom, which was an official selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, is the final chapter in a trilogy of films examining the relationship between health care, criminal justice, and education in Oakland, CA over the past decade.
Nicks previously directed 2012’s The Waiting Room, set in a public hospital, and 2017’s The Force, which covers the troubled Oakland Police Department, both of which will also be streaming on Hulu.
The film follows Oakland High School’s class of 2020 as they confront an unprecedented year. Anxiety over test scores and college applications gives way to uncertainty springing from a rapidly developing pandemic. Efforts to eliminate the school...
- 7/20/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
As a cross-section of documentary sales exes winged their way towards the Palais for their first physical Cannes in two years, it wasn’t just the Covid-19 spit tests that marked out the experience as different – the marketplace has also changed, the pandemic exacerbating several trends.
For starters, in terms of investment in new feature-length documentary titles, most sales agents are arriving with co-pro and financing deals in mind, rather than the acquisition of completed films.
The distribution backlog caused by the closure of cinemas in key territories is partly to blame, and the earliest most agents are looking to secure films for distribution is for 2022 and 2023.
“This year I’ve had to say ‘no’ to films I really like and to stop acquiring completed titles and that, to me, is dramatic,” said Anaïs Clanet. partner and head of sales at Paris-based Reservoir Docs.
Deckert Distribution’s Liselott Verbrugge – in...
For starters, in terms of investment in new feature-length documentary titles, most sales agents are arriving with co-pro and financing deals in mind, rather than the acquisition of completed films.
The distribution backlog caused by the closure of cinemas in key territories is partly to blame, and the earliest most agents are looking to secure films for distribution is for 2022 and 2023.
“This year I’ve had to say ‘no’ to films I really like and to stop acquiring completed titles and that, to me, is dramatic,” said Anaïs Clanet. partner and head of sales at Paris-based Reservoir Docs.
Deckert Distribution’s Liselott Verbrugge – in...
- 7/12/2021
- by Ann-Marie Corvin
- Variety Film + TV
Hulu has announced that a six-part music docuseries titled “McCartney 3,2,1” will premiere on July 16.
While there have been many documentaries on the Beatles and McCartney over the years, what makes this one different is the fact that he will be speaking with Rick Rubin, one of the most successful producers of the last 30 years and a music geek of magnitude, who has worked with everyone from Tom Petty to Run-Dmc, from Johnny Cash to Slayer, from Adele to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. His experience and insights into songwriting and recording will likely provide a fresh take on McCartney’s groundbreaking work with the Beatles, his group Wings, and his 51 years as a solo artist.
“Never before have fans had the opportunity to hear Paul McCartney share, in such expansive, celebratory detail, the experience of creating his life’s work — more than 50 years of culture-defining music,” Craig Erwich, president...
While there have been many documentaries on the Beatles and McCartney over the years, what makes this one different is the fact that he will be speaking with Rick Rubin, one of the most successful producers of the last 30 years and a music geek of magnitude, who has worked with everyone from Tom Petty to Run-Dmc, from Johnny Cash to Slayer, from Adele to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. His experience and insights into songwriting and recording will likely provide a fresh take on McCartney’s groundbreaking work with the Beatles, his group Wings, and his 51 years as a solo artist.
“Never before have fans had the opportunity to hear Paul McCartney share, in such expansive, celebratory detail, the experience of creating his life’s work — more than 50 years of culture-defining music,” Craig Erwich, president...
- 5/17/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s Global Bulletin, the Monte-Carlo television festival reveals award nominees; Fremantle takes distribution rights to race relations documentary “Dreamland”; Netflix sets June date for second part of “Lupin”; Bavaria Fiction promotes Nina Maag; Zdf factual documentary series “Africa From Above” commences production; Channel 4 commissions documentary series “The Academy”; Vice launches Fast channel on Roku; Canadian Creative Accelerator announces French-language projects ready for U.S. sales; and the U.K.’s Reel Cinema group reopens with new screens.
After a Covid-enforced pause in 2020, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival is back as an in-person event from June 18-22. Some 27 programs from 14 countries have been officially selected to compete for the Golden Nymph awards.
Fiction nominees include “Ana. all in” (Spain), “It’s A Sin” (U.K.), “Line in the Sand” (Israel), “Made For Love” (U.S.), “Piece of my Heart” (Finland), “Roald & Beatrix: The Tail of the Curious Mouse” (U.
After a Covid-enforced pause in 2020, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival is back as an in-person event from June 18-22. Some 27 programs from 14 countries have been officially selected to compete for the Golden Nymph awards.
Fiction nominees include “Ana. all in” (Spain), “It’s A Sin” (U.K.), “Line in the Sand” (Israel), “Made For Love” (U.S.), “Piece of my Heart” (Finland), “Roald & Beatrix: The Tail of the Curious Mouse” (U.
- 5/11/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Hulu has ordered a nine-part docuseries chronicling the history of the storied Los Angeles Lakers franchise. The project, which joins the Hulu Originals lineup, comes from Lakers’ CEO and controlling owner Jeanie Buss; Emmy-winning director Antoine Fuqua, in association with Fuqua Films; Haven Entertainment; and Los Angeles Media Fund.
The series details the past four decades of the Lakers and featured interviews from more than 35 people within the organization, including the Buss family; legendary coaches Pat Riley and Phil Jackson; and NBA Hall of Famers Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and team captain Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, among numerous other current and former players. Also featured are interviews with a range of high-profile fans and a trove of archival footage featuring never-before-seen interviews with the Lakers’ late owner, Jerry Buss.
Buss and Fuqua will executive produce the series alongside Haven Entertainment’s Kevin Mann, Michael Mann and Brendan Bragg; Los Angeles Media Fund...
The series details the past four decades of the Lakers and featured interviews from more than 35 people within the organization, including the Buss family; legendary coaches Pat Riley and Phil Jackson; and NBA Hall of Famers Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and team captain Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, among numerous other current and former players. Also featured are interviews with a range of high-profile fans and a trove of archival footage featuring never-before-seen interviews with the Lakers’ late owner, Jerry Buss.
Buss and Fuqua will executive produce the series alongside Haven Entertainment’s Kevin Mann, Michael Mann and Brendan Bragg; Los Angeles Media Fund...
- 5/10/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The 14th annual Television Academy Honors list is out, recognizing seven exceptional TV programs and their producers who used powerful and innovative storytelling to advance social change.
The list spans three documentaries, two dramas, an anthology series and a late-night comedy news show: For Life, I Am Greta, I May Destroy You, Little America, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, The Social Dilemma and Welcome to Chechnya. Read details on each program below.
Television Academy Honors annually celebrates programs across numerous platforms and genres that elevate complex issues facing society. This year’s honorees addressed racism, criminal justice, social justice, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ persecution, immigration and climate change — energizing, educating and challenging audiences around the world.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history, these seven extraordinary programs illuminated and championed some of the most critical issues facing our communities,” said Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma.
The list spans three documentaries, two dramas, an anthology series and a late-night comedy news show: For Life, I Am Greta, I May Destroy You, Little America, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, The Social Dilemma and Welcome to Chechnya. Read details on each program below.
Television Academy Honors annually celebrates programs across numerous platforms and genres that elevate complex issues facing society. This year’s honorees addressed racism, criminal justice, social justice, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ persecution, immigration and climate change — energizing, educating and challenging audiences around the world.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history, these seven extraordinary programs illuminated and championed some of the most critical issues facing our communities,” said Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma.
- 5/3/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO’s ‘I May Destroy You,’ Comedy Central’s ‘The Daily Show’ Among TV Academy Honors 2021 Recipients
The Television Academy has unveiled recipients of its 14th Television Academy Honors, including HBO’s “I May Destroy You” and Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.” The seven honorees also include “For Life,” “I Am Greta,” “Little America,” “The Social Dilemma” and “Welcome to Chechnya.”
“During one of the most challenging years in television history, these seven extraordinary programs illuminated and championed some of the most critical issues facing our communities,” said Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma. “We are thrilled to be honoring programs and producers who are influencing social change around the globe.”
The Television Academy Honors are meant to single out “programs across numerous platforms and genres that elevate complex issues facing society,” the org said, Topics addressed in this year’s crop of programs include issues of racism, criminal justice, social justice, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ persecution, immigration and climate change.
Howard Meltzer,...
“During one of the most challenging years in television history, these seven extraordinary programs illuminated and championed some of the most critical issues facing our communities,” said Television Academy Chairman and CEO Frank Scherma. “We are thrilled to be honoring programs and producers who are influencing social change around the globe.”
The Television Academy Honors are meant to single out “programs across numerous platforms and genres that elevate complex issues facing society,” the org said, Topics addressed in this year’s crop of programs include issues of racism, criminal justice, social justice, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ persecution, immigration and climate change.
Howard Meltzer,...
- 5/3/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
For Life, I Am Greta, I May Destroy You, Little America, The Daily Show With Trevor Noah, The Social Dilemma and Welcome to Chechnya will be celebrated at the 14th Television Academy Honors, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences announced Monday.
These seven programs and their producers — three documentaries, two drama series, one anthology series and one late night comedy news show — “have used powerful and innovative storytelling to advance social change” “and “elevate complex issues facing society,” the organization said in a statement.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history,...
These seven programs and their producers — three documentaries, two drama series, one anthology series and one late night comedy news show — “have used powerful and innovative storytelling to advance social change” “and “elevate complex issues facing society,” the organization said in a statement.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history,...
For Life, I Am Greta, I May Destroy You, Little America, The Daily Show With Trevor Noah, The Social Dilemma and Welcome to Chechnya will be celebrated at the 14th Television Academy Honors, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences announced Monday.
These seven programs and their producers — three documentaries, two drama series, one anthology series and one late night comedy news show — “have used powerful and innovative storytelling to advance social change” “and “elevate complex issues facing society,” the organization said in a statement.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history,...
These seven programs and their producers — three documentaries, two drama series, one anthology series and one late night comedy news show — “have used powerful and innovative storytelling to advance social change” “and “elevate complex issues facing society,” the organization said in a statement.
“During one of the most challenging years in television history,...
Once seen as rather elitist and niche, the documentary feature market is expanding as audience demand for real life stories continues to grow.
Documentaries have become a huge genre in their own right, says Lia Devlin, head of distribution at Altitude Films, whose slate includes “Tina,” “Zappa,” “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet,” and festival hit “Gunda,” which it releases this June.
“Audiences have reappraised the documentary genre. They are treated very much now as feature films and a solid entertainment format.”
Streamers have played a key part in helping broaden the appeal of feature docs, offering thrilling and emotional real-life stories that are often as dramatic as anything that fiction could dream up. Netflix, in particular, has helped to raise awareness. The streamer, for example, has two hotly tipped Oscar documentary contenders this year, “My Octopus Teacher” and “Crip Camp,” having previously won the category in 2018 with “Icarus” and in 2020 with “American Factory.
Documentaries have become a huge genre in their own right, says Lia Devlin, head of distribution at Altitude Films, whose slate includes “Tina,” “Zappa,” “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet,” and festival hit “Gunda,” which it releases this June.
“Audiences have reappraised the documentary genre. They are treated very much now as feature films and a solid entertainment format.”
Streamers have played a key part in helping broaden the appeal of feature docs, offering thrilling and emotional real-life stories that are often as dramatic as anything that fiction could dream up. Netflix, in particular, has helped to raise awareness. The streamer, for example, has two hotly tipped Oscar documentary contenders this year, “My Octopus Teacher” and “Crip Camp,” having previously won the category in 2018 with “Icarus” and in 2020 with “American Factory.
- 4/20/2021
- by Tim Dams
- Variety Film + TV
The documentary film community gathered virtually on Facebook Tuesday night to chat and cheer each other on at the annual Cinema Eye Honors Awards. Oscar ballots are due Wednesday at 5pm Pt, and many documentary branch voters were on the livestream.
At the start of the evening, as we waited for the pre-taped presentation to begin, “Crip Camp” nominee Jim Lebrecht congratulated “The Dissident” director Bryan Fogel for his BAFTA nomination that morning. International Documentary Association chief Simon Kilmurry was on the chat, along with Sundance artistic director Tabitha Jackson and Kirsten (Kj) Johnson.
She took home the directing prize for “Dick Johnson is Dead,” one of nine Netflix films nominated and among three winners for the streamer, including “Rolling Thunder Revue” and non-fiction short “Love Song for Latasha.”
Many filmmakers sent in videos introducing themselves, from Martin Scorsese in New York (“Rolling Thunder Revue” won an editing award) and...
At the start of the evening, as we waited for the pre-taped presentation to begin, “Crip Camp” nominee Jim Lebrecht congratulated “The Dissident” director Bryan Fogel for his BAFTA nomination that morning. International Documentary Association chief Simon Kilmurry was on the chat, along with Sundance artistic director Tabitha Jackson and Kirsten (Kj) Johnson.
She took home the directing prize for “Dick Johnson is Dead,” one of nine Netflix films nominated and among three winners for the streamer, including “Rolling Thunder Revue” and non-fiction short “Love Song for Latasha.”
Many filmmakers sent in videos introducing themselves, from Martin Scorsese in New York (“Rolling Thunder Revue” won an editing award) and...
- 3/10/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The documentary film community gathered virtually on Facebook Tuesday night to chat and cheer each other on at the annual Cinema Eye Honors Awards. Oscar ballots are due Wednesday at 5pm Pt, and many documentary branch voters were on the livestream.
At the start of the evening, as we waited for the pre-taped presentation to begin, “Crip Camp” nominee Jim Lebrecht congratulated “The Dissident” director Bryan Fogel for his BAFTA nomination that morning. International Documentary Association chief Simon Kilmurry was on the chat, along with Sundance artistic director Tabitha Jackson and Kirsten (Kj) Johnson.
She took home the directing prize for “Dick Johnson is Dead,” one of nine Netflix films nominated and among three winners for the streamer, including “Rolling Thunder Revue” and non-fiction short “Love Song for Latasha.”
Many filmmakers sent in videos introducing themselves, from Martin Scorsese in New York (“Rolling Thunder Revue” won an editing award) and...
At the start of the evening, as we waited for the pre-taped presentation to begin, “Crip Camp” nominee Jim Lebrecht congratulated “The Dissident” director Bryan Fogel for his BAFTA nomination that morning. International Documentary Association chief Simon Kilmurry was on the chat, along with Sundance artistic director Tabitha Jackson and Kirsten (Kj) Johnson.
She took home the directing prize for “Dick Johnson is Dead,” one of nine Netflix films nominated and among three winners for the streamer, including “Rolling Thunder Revue” and non-fiction short “Love Song for Latasha.”
Many filmmakers sent in videos introducing themselves, from Martin Scorsese in New York (“Rolling Thunder Revue” won an editing award) and...
- 3/10/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The Romanian film “Collective” has been named the best nonfiction film of 2020 at the 13th annual Cinema Eye Honors, a New York-based awards show devoted to all facets of documentary filmmaking.
Kirsten Johnson took the directing prize for “Dick Johnson Is Dead,” while the award for outstanding debut went to Garrett Bradley for “Time,” which also won for its editing.
“Boys State” won the Audience Award, the only Cinema Eye Honor category in which the public was invited to cast ballots.
The Spotlight Award, which was designed to put attention on a film that deserves wider exposure, went to “The Earth is Blue as an Orange,” directed by Iryna Tsilyk. The Heterodox Award, given to a film that combines nonfictional and fictional techniques, was won by Bill and Turner Ross’ “Bloody Nose, Empty Pockets.”
“The Truffle Hunters” won for cinematography, while “Feels Good Man” won in the graphic design or...
Kirsten Johnson took the directing prize for “Dick Johnson Is Dead,” while the award for outstanding debut went to Garrett Bradley for “Time,” which also won for its editing.
“Boys State” won the Audience Award, the only Cinema Eye Honor category in which the public was invited to cast ballots.
The Spotlight Award, which was designed to put attention on a film that deserves wider exposure, went to “The Earth is Blue as an Orange,” directed by Iryna Tsilyk. The Heterodox Award, given to a film that combines nonfictional and fictional techniques, was won by Bill and Turner Ross’ “Bloody Nose, Empty Pockets.”
“The Truffle Hunters” won for cinematography, while “Feels Good Man” won in the graphic design or...
- 3/10/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Thursday revealed the 366 feature films that are eligible for consideration at the 93rd Oscars, which are set to air April 25 live on ABC.
The total number of films is up from last year’s 344 films in contention.
This year’s list was compiled based on tweaked eligibility rules implemented because of the coronavirus pandemic, which has pushed the ceremony to its latest date ever. For this year, feature films had to open by February 28 in a commercial motion picture theater for a seven-day qualifying run in at least one of six metro areas: Los Angeles County, New York City, the Bay Area, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta. Drive-in theaters open nightly were included as qualifying venues, as were films intended for theatrical release but because of the lockdown made available first via streaming, VOD service or other broadcast.
Today’s news comes...
The total number of films is up from last year’s 344 films in contention.
This year’s list was compiled based on tweaked eligibility rules implemented because of the coronavirus pandemic, which has pushed the ceremony to its latest date ever. For this year, feature films had to open by February 28 in a commercial motion picture theater for a seven-day qualifying run in at least one of six metro areas: Los Angeles County, New York City, the Bay Area, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta. Drive-in theaters open nightly were included as qualifying venues, as were films intended for theatrical release but because of the lockdown made available first via streaming, VOD service or other broadcast.
Today’s news comes...
- 2/25/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
A docuseries titled “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret” has been ordered at Hulu, TheWrap has learned.
The show comes from “Valentino” and “The Reagans” director and former Vanity Fair journalist Matt Tyrnauer. It consists of three hourlong episodes about the fashion brand, which has been plagued by public criticism and internal complaints in recent years.
Per its official description, “‘The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret’ takes us behind the scenes through first-hand accounts and deep investigative research to reveal the inner workings of one of the country’s largest brands and cultural institutions.”
L Brands, which owns the lingerie company, scrapped the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2019.
“We think it’s important to evolve the messaging of Victoria’s Secret,” Stuart Burgdoerfer, L Brands chief financial officer, said in an interview with New York Magazine in November 2019. “We will be communicating to customers but...
The show comes from “Valentino” and “The Reagans” director and former Vanity Fair journalist Matt Tyrnauer. It consists of three hourlong episodes about the fashion brand, which has been plagued by public criticism and internal complaints in recent years.
Per its official description, “‘The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret’ takes us behind the scenes through first-hand accounts and deep investigative research to reveal the inner workings of one of the country’s largest brands and cultural institutions.”
L Brands, which owns the lingerie company, scrapped the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2019.
“We think it’s important to evolve the messaging of Victoria’s Secret,” Stuart Burgdoerfer, L Brands chief financial officer, said in an interview with New York Magazine in November 2019. “We will be communicating to customers but...
- 2/23/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret, a new docuseries from Peter Berg and Matt Tyrnauer, has landed at Hulu.
First revealed by Deadline back in March 2020, The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret will shed light on the inner workings of a once-powerful sector of the world of fashion, adding context to both the positive and negative aspects of a rapidly transforming industry. Tentatively set to for a 2020 launch, the Tyrnauer-directed docuseries is currently in production.
The series will chronicle the lingerie franchise’s start as a small mail order brand to its ascension as a a global juggernaut embroiled in controversies including the relationship between owner Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein.
The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret joins Hulu’s growing slate of documentaries including Fyre Fraud, Minding The Gap, Ask Dr. Ruth, I Am Greta and Hillary.
The director recently executive produced and helmed The Reagans,...
First revealed by Deadline back in March 2020, The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret will shed light on the inner workings of a once-powerful sector of the world of fashion, adding context to both the positive and negative aspects of a rapidly transforming industry. Tentatively set to for a 2020 launch, the Tyrnauer-directed docuseries is currently in production.
The series will chronicle the lingerie franchise’s start as a small mail order brand to its ascension as a a global juggernaut embroiled in controversies including the relationship between owner Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein.
The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret joins Hulu’s growing slate of documentaries including Fyre Fraud, Minding The Gap, Ask Dr. Ruth, I Am Greta and Hillary.
The director recently executive produced and helmed The Reagans,...
- 2/23/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Hulu has ordered the three-part docuseries “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret.”
From director and former Vanity Fair journalist Matt Tyrnauer, “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret” takes viewers behind the scenes through first-hand accounts and investigative research to reveal the inner workings of one of the country’s largest brands and cultural institutions.
Tyrnauer, whose past credits include “Studio 54,” “Where’s My Roy Cohn,” and “The Reagans,” will direct all three episodes. Tyrnauer will also executive produce along with Corey Reeser under their Altimeter Films banner. Peter Berg, Matt Goldberg, and Brandon Carroll of Film 45 will also executive produce along with Elizabeth Rogers.
Endeavor Content is handling worldwide sales on the docuseries, which is currently slated to be released on Hulu in early 2022. Production is currently underway.
Victoria’s Secret was originally founded in the 1970s and expanded into a retail powerhouse going into the 1990s.
From director and former Vanity Fair journalist Matt Tyrnauer, “The Rise and Fall of Victoria’s Secret” takes viewers behind the scenes through first-hand accounts and investigative research to reveal the inner workings of one of the country’s largest brands and cultural institutions.
Tyrnauer, whose past credits include “Studio 54,” “Where’s My Roy Cohn,” and “The Reagans,” will direct all three episodes. Tyrnauer will also executive produce along with Corey Reeser under their Altimeter Films banner. Peter Berg, Matt Goldberg, and Brandon Carroll of Film 45 will also executive produce along with Elizabeth Rogers.
Endeavor Content is handling worldwide sales on the docuseries, which is currently slated to be released on Hulu in early 2022. Production is currently underway.
Victoria’s Secret was originally founded in the 1970s and expanded into a retail powerhouse going into the 1990s.
- 2/23/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The BBC and PBS have boarded a previously-announced BBC Studios documentary series on climate change superstar Greta Thunberg.
The two broadcasters will co-produce three-part series Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World (working title), which follows the 18-year-old activist on her climate crusade and features a chorus of experts laying out the science behind her mission.
Filming commenced on the series in August 2019, when Thunberg was just 16. Cameras were there as she has visited extraordinary locations across the globe to see the impact of the climate crisis. Producers have also filmed her at home in Sweden as Covid-19 swept the world.
Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World is made by BBC Studios in association with B-Reel Films. The executive producer is Rob Liddel, while BBC Studios is distributing the series internationally.
It is not the first time Thunberg has allowed cameras into her life. She was the...
The two broadcasters will co-produce three-part series Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World (working title), which follows the 18-year-old activist on her climate crusade and features a chorus of experts laying out the science behind her mission.
Filming commenced on the series in August 2019, when Thunberg was just 16. Cameras were there as she has visited extraordinary locations across the globe to see the impact of the climate crisis. Producers have also filmed her at home in Sweden as Covid-19 swept the world.
Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World is made by BBC Studios in association with B-Reel Films. The executive producer is Rob Liddel, while BBC Studios is distributing the series internationally.
It is not the first time Thunberg has allowed cameras into her life. She was the...
- 2/15/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
“Saint Maud,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” “Nomadland,” “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and “Ammonite” are among the leading films on the British Academy of Film and Television Arts’ (BAFTA) longlist for annual British Film Awards that were announced Thursday.
The publication of the longlists follows the BAFTA 2020 Review, where over 120 wide-ranging changes were introduced across voting, membership and campaigning to address a lack of diversity in the 2020 Film Awards nominations. As part of these changes, a new longlisting initial round was introduced for the awards, resulting in three rounds of voting. Round one voting, which took place from Jan. 12-26, produced the longlists in all categories.
The directing category sees the BAFTA make an effort towards gender parity. To determine this longlist, in Round One, the directing chapter voted and the top eight female and top eight male directed films were automatically longlisted. The remaining two female and two...
The publication of the longlists follows the BAFTA 2020 Review, where over 120 wide-ranging changes were introduced across voting, membership and campaigning to address a lack of diversity in the 2020 Film Awards nominations. As part of these changes, a new longlisting initial round was introduced for the awards, resulting in three rounds of voting. Round one voting, which took place from Jan. 12-26, produced the longlists in all categories.
The directing category sees the BAFTA make an effort towards gender parity. To determine this longlist, in Round One, the directing chapter voted and the top eight female and top eight male directed films were automatically longlisted. The remaining two female and two...
- 2/4/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has unveiled “longlists” that narrow the field in 24 categories at the Ee British Academy Film Awards. The longlists were part of an overhaul of BAFTA voting procedures instituted in September to increase the diversity of nominations. Longlists existed in BAFTA voting prior to 2012 but were eliminated that year.
Aaron Sorkin’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7” led all films by being longlisted in 15 different categories, buoyed by four different cast members in the Best Supporting Actor category. It was followed by David Fincher’s “Mank” with 14, Emerald Fennell’s “Promising Young Woman” with 13 and Paul Greengrass’ “News of the World” with 12.
Other films that hit double digits included “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” “The Mauritanian” and “Saint Maud,” which were each shortlisted in 11 categories.
The lists cast a wide net, with Best Film semifinalists including everything from “Da 5 Bloods,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom...
Aaron Sorkin’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7” led all films by being longlisted in 15 different categories, buoyed by four different cast members in the Best Supporting Actor category. It was followed by David Fincher’s “Mank” with 14, Emerald Fennell’s “Promising Young Woman” with 13 and Paul Greengrass’ “News of the World” with 12.
Other films that hit double digits included “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” “The Mauritanian” and “Saint Maud,” which were each shortlisted in 11 categories.
The lists cast a wide net, with Best Film semifinalists including everything from “Da 5 Bloods,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom...
- 2/4/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
BAFTA has published the longlists for its 2021 Film Awards, which members will now whittle down to the final nominations. You can see the lists in full below, there are 15 per category for most awards, with exceptions.
These aren’t nominations, so drawing too many conclusions from them is premature at this stage. However, if a title didn’t make the cut here, it won’t be getting a nom.
A few takeaways: as per the Globes, Minari is in for foreign-language movie but not for Best Film (Another Round made both); Tenet missed both Best Film and British Film but did make Director and below-the-line categories; Spike Lee isn’t on the Director list, but Da 5 Bloods is on nine including Best Film and Screenplay; Malcolm & Marie missed everything aside from the two lead performances; zilch for On The Rocks, and fairly slim pickings for Apple in total,...
These aren’t nominations, so drawing too many conclusions from them is premature at this stage. However, if a title didn’t make the cut here, it won’t be getting a nom.
A few takeaways: as per the Globes, Minari is in for foreign-language movie but not for Best Film (Another Round made both); Tenet missed both Best Film and British Film but did make Director and below-the-line categories; Spike Lee isn’t on the Director list, but Da 5 Bloods is on nine including Best Film and Screenplay; Malcolm & Marie missed everything aside from the two lead performances; zilch for On The Rocks, and fairly slim pickings for Apple in total,...
- 2/4/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Thursday released its official entries for 2021 Oscars in the categories of Documentary Feature, Animated Feature and International Films. The takeaway: As expected, the eligible Documentary Feature lineup shatters the record for the most ever.
A total of 238 features are eligible for consideration in the Doc Feature category, breaking the previous record of 170 set in 2017. Last year, by contrast, 159 feature documentaries qualified. The Academy relaxed eligibility rules in light of Covid-19, so that any film that could make a claim of an intended theatrical release was deemed eligible. Earning awards from film festivals was an alternative way to qualify.
For the International Feature race, Lesotho, Sudan and Suriname are first-time entrants among the 93 eligible titles, the same total as last year. Earlier this year, the Academy’s Board of Governors boosted the number of films eligible for the shortlist from 10 to 15. Under the new rules,...
A total of 238 features are eligible for consideration in the Doc Feature category, breaking the previous record of 170 set in 2017. Last year, by contrast, 159 feature documentaries qualified. The Academy relaxed eligibility rules in light of Covid-19, so that any film that could make a claim of an intended theatrical release was deemed eligible. Earning awards from film festivals was an alternative way to qualify.
For the International Feature race, Lesotho, Sudan and Suriname are first-time entrants among the 93 eligible titles, the same total as last year. Earlier this year, the Academy’s Board of Governors boosted the number of films eligible for the shortlist from 10 to 15. Under the new rules,...
- 1/28/2021
- by Patrick Hipes and Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
The number of films available to Oscar voters in a screening room devoted to the Best Picture category hit the 200 mark on Wednesday, which means that $2.5 million has entered the Academy coffers from films paying $12,500 each to be represented in the screening room.
The members-only Academy Screening Room hit the milestone with the addition of more than a dozen movies this week, including Fisher Stevens’ “Palmer,” Lee Daniels’ “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” John Lee Hancock’s “The Little Things,” the Russo brothers’ “Cherry,” Josh Trank’s “Capone,” the documentary “Coup 53,” the Studio Ghibli animated film “Earwig and the Witch,” the international films “Funny Boy” and “Bacarau” (neither eligible in the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film category) and some off-the-wall selections, including “Snake White – Love Endures” and “Soorarai Pottru.”
Other late additions to the screening room have included “Minari,” “Promising Young Woman,” “The White Tiger” and “Cherry,” which were not added until January.
The members-only Academy Screening Room hit the milestone with the addition of more than a dozen movies this week, including Fisher Stevens’ “Palmer,” Lee Daniels’ “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” John Lee Hancock’s “The Little Things,” the Russo brothers’ “Cherry,” Josh Trank’s “Capone,” the documentary “Coup 53,” the Studio Ghibli animated film “Earwig and the Witch,” the international films “Funny Boy” and “Bacarau” (neither eligible in the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film category) and some off-the-wall selections, including “Snake White – Love Endures” and “Soorarai Pottru.”
Other late additions to the screening room have included “Minari,” “Promising Young Woman,” “The White Tiger” and “Cherry,” which were not added until January.
- 1/28/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Both films won three prizes each at Sweden’s top film awards.
Henrik Schyffert’s Run Uje Run has won best film at the 2021 Guldbagge Awards, Sweden’s top film accolade, which also saw Amanda Kernell’s Charter score a hat-trick including best director.
Run Uje Run, written by and starring Swedish musician Uje Brandelius, is an autobiographical comedy-drama that centres on a pop star who is diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
Scroll down for full list of winners
The feature, which won the audience award and Fipresci prize when its debuted at Goteborg Film Festival last year, also scored the...
Henrik Schyffert’s Run Uje Run has won best film at the 2021 Guldbagge Awards, Sweden’s top film accolade, which also saw Amanda Kernell’s Charter score a hat-trick including best director.
Run Uje Run, written by and starring Swedish musician Uje Brandelius, is an autobiographical comedy-drama that centres on a pop star who is diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
Scroll down for full list of winners
The feature, which won the audience award and Fipresci prize when its debuted at Goteborg Film Festival last year, also scored the...
- 1/27/2021
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Hulu is continuing to ramp up its original documentary push with a three-part series about Bigfoot from the Duplass Brothers and Lorena director Joshua Rofé.
The streamer has ordered Sasquatch, which investigates rumors of a bizarre twenty-five-year old triple homicide said to be the work of a mythical creature.
The series will launch this spring.
Rofé, who directed Amazon’s doc series on the Lorena Bobbitt case, will direct the series and will exec produce alongside Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass, and Mel Eslyn of Duplass Brothers Productions, Steven Berger of Number 19, David Holthouse and Zach Cregger. M. Elizabeth Hughes produces.
It is the latest documentary series from Mark and Jay Duplass, who are behind Netflix’s Wild Wild Country and Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist. Their four-part series The Lady and the Dale, which tells the story of Elizabeth Carmichael and the Twentieth Century Motor Car Corporation,...
The streamer has ordered Sasquatch, which investigates rumors of a bizarre twenty-five-year old triple homicide said to be the work of a mythical creature.
The series will launch this spring.
Rofé, who directed Amazon’s doc series on the Lorena Bobbitt case, will direct the series and will exec produce alongside Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass, and Mel Eslyn of Duplass Brothers Productions, Steven Berger of Number 19, David Holthouse and Zach Cregger. M. Elizabeth Hughes produces.
It is the latest documentary series from Mark and Jay Duplass, who are behind Netflix’s Wild Wild Country and Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist. Their four-part series The Lady and the Dale, which tells the story of Elizabeth Carmichael and the Twentieth Century Motor Car Corporation,...
- 1/14/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
I Am Greta director Nathan Grossman first began filming climate change activist Greta Thunberg long before the Swedish teenager became an international cause célèbre.
“It started with a tip…that told us she was going to do some kind of a small [protest] outside the Swedish government,” Grossman says during Deadline’s Contenders Documentary awards-season event, recalling that Thunberg sat alone against a stone wall holding a sign reading “School Strike for the Climate.” “That was the first time I saw her.”
Grossman went on to spend more than a year with Thunberg and her family for his Hulu documentary. He tells Deadline that he didn’t anticipate the teen’s protest would ignite a movement.
“She’s interesting and she has a special way of speaking about this [issue] but it’s not something that big,” Grossman remembers thinking. “When I understood that this is definitely an international kind of grand...
“It started with a tip…that told us she was going to do some kind of a small [protest] outside the Swedish government,” Grossman says during Deadline’s Contenders Documentary awards-season event, recalling that Thunberg sat alone against a stone wall holding a sign reading “School Strike for the Climate.” “That was the first time I saw her.”
Grossman went on to spend more than a year with Thunberg and her family for his Hulu documentary. He tells Deadline that he didn’t anticipate the teen’s protest would ignite a movement.
“She’s interesting and she has a special way of speaking about this [issue] but it’s not something that big,” Grossman remembers thinking. “When I understood that this is definitely an international kind of grand...
- 1/10/2021
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
The coronavirus pandemic pushed the release of a slew of narrative films into 2021, reducing the number of Best Picture contenders this Oscar season. But it’s a completely different story with documentary. Streaming platforms and other players didn’t hold back their nonfiction slate, and with the Academy relaxing qualification rules, the record for films in contention for Best Documentary is about to be shattered this year.
That makes this the perfect time to launch Deadline’s first Contenders Documentary, a virtual showcase of top nonfiction films this awards season. The event kicks off today at 8 a.m. Pt. Click here to register and join the livestream, and follow along for the day on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram via @Deadline and #DeadlineContenders. See the full schedule of panels below.
The Contenders Documentary program, featuring conversations with a raft of Oscar-winning and Oscar-nominated filmmakers including Alex Gibney, Liz Garbus, Ron Howard,...
That makes this the perfect time to launch Deadline’s first Contenders Documentary, a virtual showcase of top nonfiction films this awards season. The event kicks off today at 8 a.m. Pt. Click here to register and join the livestream, and follow along for the day on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram via @Deadline and #DeadlineContenders. See the full schedule of panels below.
The Contenders Documentary program, featuring conversations with a raft of Oscar-winning and Oscar-nominated filmmakers including Alex Gibney, Liz Garbus, Ron Howard,...
- 1/10/2021
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Following the continuing success of its long-running Contenders events during Oscar and Emmy seasons, Deadline is making new additions to the franchise with Contenders Documentary, focusing on the year’s most noteworthy non-fiction films, and Contenders International, with its eye on a great lineup of foreign-language entries. Both of these events, designed to put the spotlight on worthy movies that don’t always get the attention they deserve, will be presented virtually due to the pandemic — as we did for the Emmys — in their inaugural year over the course of one weekend, with International taking place on Saturday, January 9, and Documentary on Sunday, January 10. Both will be starting their livestreams at 8 a.m. Pt.
Fifteen studios, streamers and distributors will be participating in the kickoff for Contenders International, with an impressive and varied presentation involving clips and filmmaker/talent Q&As from a total of 23 films from around the world...
Fifteen studios, streamers and distributors will be participating in the kickoff for Contenders International, with an impressive and varied presentation involving clips and filmmaker/talent Q&As from a total of 23 films from around the world...
- 1/1/2021
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Hulu is wrapping up a deal for domestic distribution rights to “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” a move that will likely allow the drama to premiere in time for Oscars consideration.
The film, which is directed by Lee Daniels and stars Andra Day as the legendary jazz and blues singer, was being shopped to streaming services by CAA Media Finance. The film was originally set up at Paramount Pictures, but with most U.S. theaters closed due to coronavirus, it was difficult to figure out a viable way to distribute the movie in a traditional manner. Paramount won the domestic rights to the film in auction at this year’s Cannes, but apparently the sale never closed. That may be the case, but Paramount had been preparing advertising material and overseeing reshoots.
The deal gives Hulu a major Academy Awards contender at a time when streaming services such as Netflix,...
The film, which is directed by Lee Daniels and stars Andra Day as the legendary jazz and blues singer, was being shopped to streaming services by CAA Media Finance. The film was originally set up at Paramount Pictures, but with most U.S. theaters closed due to coronavirus, it was difficult to figure out a viable way to distribute the movie in a traditional manner. Paramount won the domestic rights to the film in auction at this year’s Cannes, but apparently the sale never closed. That may be the case, but Paramount had been preparing advertising material and overseeing reshoots.
The deal gives Hulu a major Academy Awards contender at a time when streaming services such as Netflix,...
- 12/24/2020
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Passionate Swedish teen environmentalist Greta Thunberg has galvanized her peers and adults to become climate change activists. She was nominated for a Nobel Prize. Addressed the U.N. General Assembly proclaiming ‘How dare you?’ You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words.” Donald Trump slammed her in a tweet telling her she needed to “chill.” Greta, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, was cruelly described by a Fox News commentator as a “mentally ill Swedish child.”
She also recently won the Critics Choice Documentary Award for most compelling living subject of a documentary for “I Am Greta.” The Hulu documentary that premiered at the Venice Film Festival and also played Toronto before it began streaming in November. Film Independent recently invited filmmaker Nathan Grossman to discuss the film.
“I Am Greta” began with a tip in 2018 from a friend who knew Greta’s family “a little bit...
She also recently won the Critics Choice Documentary Award for most compelling living subject of a documentary for “I Am Greta.” The Hulu documentary that premiered at the Venice Film Festival and also played Toronto before it began streaming in November. Film Independent recently invited filmmaker Nathan Grossman to discuss the film.
“I Am Greta” began with a tip in 2018 from a friend who knew Greta’s family “a little bit...
- 12/24/2020
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
The Academy has added 93 more films to the members-only screening room devoted to entries in the Best Documentary Feature category, bringing the total number of eligible contenders to a record-shattering 215.
The previous record for entries was 170 in 2017. And this year’s crop of nonfiction films is expected to pass that number by an even bigger margin — at least 50 — once a final, smaller group of films is added to the screening room in January.
New eligibility rules that were passed in the wake of the Covid-19 theater closings made it easier for documentaries to qualify this year by allowing them to do so by playing at film festivals, even virtual ones, and by easing requirements for theatrical runs. In an email to members detailing the new additions, the Academy said, “The Documentary Branch Executive Committee felt it was important to be inclusive and supportive of documentary filmmakers in this unprecedented and challenging year.
The previous record for entries was 170 in 2017. And this year’s crop of nonfiction films is expected to pass that number by an even bigger margin — at least 50 — once a final, smaller group of films is added to the screening room in January.
New eligibility rules that were passed in the wake of the Covid-19 theater closings made it easier for documentaries to qualify this year by allowing them to do so by playing at film festivals, even virtual ones, and by easing requirements for theatrical runs. In an email to members detailing the new additions, the Academy said, “The Documentary Branch Executive Committee felt it was important to be inclusive and supportive of documentary filmmakers in this unprecedented and challenging year.
- 12/22/2020
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Hot on the heels of its Sundance selection, London-based sales agent and distributor Dogwoof has acquired Hogir Hirori’s documentary “Sabaya” and will shop global rights.
The film will receive its world premiere in the World Cinema Documentary section of the 2021 festival. Dogwoof previously repped Hirori’s IDFA-winning documentary “The Deminer” (2017), which follows a former Iraqi soldier on a personal mission to disarm thousands of landmines using just a pocketknife and some wirecutters.
“Sabaya” is the term used for individuals abducted and forced into sexual slavery. The film follows Mahmud, Ziyad and their group of fellow Yazidis who, armed with only a mobile phone and a gun, risk their lives trying to save Yazidi women and girls being held by Isis as Sabaya in the most dangerous camp in the Middle East, Al-Hol in Syria.
“Following a great collaboration with Dogwoof for my previous documentary, ‘The Deminer,’ it was an...
The film will receive its world premiere in the World Cinema Documentary section of the 2021 festival. Dogwoof previously repped Hirori’s IDFA-winning documentary “The Deminer” (2017), which follows a former Iraqi soldier on a personal mission to disarm thousands of landmines using just a pocketknife and some wirecutters.
“Sabaya” is the term used for individuals abducted and forced into sexual slavery. The film follows Mahmud, Ziyad and their group of fellow Yazidis who, armed with only a mobile phone and a gun, risk their lives trying to save Yazidi women and girls being held by Isis as Sabaya in the most dangerous camp in the Middle East, Al-Hol in Syria.
“Following a great collaboration with Dogwoof for my previous documentary, ‘The Deminer,’ it was an...
- 12/16/2020
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Cinema Eye Honors (Ceh) announced the nominees for its 14th annual awards on December 10, raising the profile of three contenders in the Documentary Feature Oscar derby. Garrett Bradley‘s “Time,” Victor Kossakovsky‘s “Gunda,” and Alexander Nanau‘s “Collective” all reaped bids for Best Documentary Feature, Direction and Editing.
“Time” leads the Ceh’s nominees with six overall, including Debut, Score and Audience Choice. “Gunda” added Cinematography to its tally for four overall, equal to the four for “Collective” which added Production. The other two films nominated for Feature are Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss‘s “Boys State” and Kirsten Johnson‘s “Dick Johnson Is Dead.”
In the last five years the group has matched with the academy’s documentary branch on three nominees, including a nomination and win last year for the eventual Oscar champ “American Factory.” With that precedent in mind, we might expect three of Ceh’s...
“Time” leads the Ceh’s nominees with six overall, including Debut, Score and Audience Choice. “Gunda” added Cinematography to its tally for four overall, equal to the four for “Collective” which added Production. The other two films nominated for Feature are Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss‘s “Boys State” and Kirsten Johnson‘s “Dick Johnson Is Dead.”
In the last five years the group has matched with the academy’s documentary branch on three nominees, including a nomination and win last year for the eventual Oscar champ “American Factory.” With that precedent in mind, we might expect three of Ceh’s...
- 12/11/2020
- by John Benutty
- Gold Derby
The influential Cinema Eye Honors nominations, voted on by documentary filmmakers, help to narrow the wide field for documentary awards contenders. Amazon Studios release “Time,” Garrett Bradley’s poetic black-and-white portrait of one family’s struggle through years of incarceration, leads the field with six nominations, including Outstanding Feature, Direction, Editing, Score and Debut.
Garnering four nominations: Alexander Nanau’s Romanian health system exposé “Collective” (Magnolia), Victor Kossakovsky’s story of a mother pig, “Gunda” (Neon), and David France’s “Welcome to Chechnya” (HBO) with four.
With three nominations each: Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss’ “Boys State” (Apple), Kirsten Johnson’s “Dick Johnson is Dead” (Netflix), Liz Garbus’ series “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” (HBO), Gianfranco Rosi’s Italian Oscar submission “Notturno” (Super Ltd), and Michael Dweck & Gregory Kershaw’s “The Truffle Hunters” (Sony Pictures Classics).
Per usual, prolific Netflix leads all distributors/broadcasters with thirteen nominations, while HBO Documentary Films grabbed ten,...
Garnering four nominations: Alexander Nanau’s Romanian health system exposé “Collective” (Magnolia), Victor Kossakovsky’s story of a mother pig, “Gunda” (Neon), and David France’s “Welcome to Chechnya” (HBO) with four.
With three nominations each: Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss’ “Boys State” (Apple), Kirsten Johnson’s “Dick Johnson is Dead” (Netflix), Liz Garbus’ series “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” (HBO), Gianfranco Rosi’s Italian Oscar submission “Notturno” (Super Ltd), and Michael Dweck & Gregory Kershaw’s “The Truffle Hunters” (Sony Pictures Classics).
Per usual, prolific Netflix leads all distributors/broadcasters with thirteen nominations, while HBO Documentary Films grabbed ten,...
- 12/10/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The influential Cinema Eye Honors nominations, voted on by documentary filmmakers, help to narrow the wide field for documentary awards contenders. Amazon Studios release “Time,” Garrett Bradley’s poetic black-and-white portrait of one family’s struggle through years of incarceration, leads the field with six nominations, including Outstanding Feature, Direction, Editing, Score and Debut.
Garnering four nominations: Alexander Nanau’s Romanian health system exposé “Collective” (Magnolia), Victor Kossakovsky’s story of a mother pig, “Gunda” (Neon), and David France’s “Welcome to Chechnya” (HBO) with four.
With three nominations each: Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss’ “Boys State” (Apple), Kirsten Johnson’s “Dick Johnson is Dead” (Netflix), Liz Garbus’ series “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” (HBO), Gianfranco Rosi’s Italian Oscar submission “Notturno” (Super Ltd), and Michael Dweck & Gregory Kershaw’s “The Truffle Hunters” (Sony Pictures Classics).
Per usual, prolific Netflix leads all distributors/broadcasters with thirteen nominations, while HBO Documentary Films grabbed ten,...
Garnering four nominations: Alexander Nanau’s Romanian health system exposé “Collective” (Magnolia), Victor Kossakovsky’s story of a mother pig, “Gunda” (Neon), and David France’s “Welcome to Chechnya” (HBO) with four.
With three nominations each: Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss’ “Boys State” (Apple), Kirsten Johnson’s “Dick Johnson is Dead” (Netflix), Liz Garbus’ series “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” (HBO), Gianfranco Rosi’s Italian Oscar submission “Notturno” (Super Ltd), and Michael Dweck & Gregory Kershaw’s “The Truffle Hunters” (Sony Pictures Classics).
Per usual, prolific Netflix leads all distributors/broadcasters with thirteen nominations, while HBO Documentary Films grabbed ten,...
- 12/10/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
If you were to look at the members-only screening room where films in contention for the Academy Award for Best Picture stream for voters, you might think that documentaries are going to do very well in the Oscars top category this year.
As of Dec. 7, there were 104 films in the Academy Screening Room for the Best Picture category, 26 of which were documentaries. That’s a full 25% of the field, which seems to suggest that nonfiction filmmakers and the companies that release them are optimistic that Oscar voters will recognize docs when they vote this year. After all, it costs $12,500 to put a film in that screening room — and all 26 docs that paid the cost to be there are also in the separate screening room available to the Academy’s Documentary Branch. Spots in that screening room are free for any film that qualifies in the Best Documentary Feature category.
Common sense,...
As of Dec. 7, there were 104 films in the Academy Screening Room for the Best Picture category, 26 of which were documentaries. That’s a full 25% of the field, which seems to suggest that nonfiction filmmakers and the companies that release them are optimistic that Oscar voters will recognize docs when they vote this year. After all, it costs $12,500 to put a film in that screening room — and all 26 docs that paid the cost to be there are also in the separate screening room available to the Academy’s Documentary Branch. Spots in that screening room are free for any film that qualifies in the Best Documentary Feature category.
Common sense,...
- 12/8/2020
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Talking about the problems of civilization easily leads to a gloomy, pessimistic perspective - after all, serial information about the increasingly deepening climate crisis is not exhilarating. Nathan Grossman, in his documentary I Am Greta, tries to implement the opposite strategy by following teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg. The teenager bears the responsibility of the leader of the younger generation, fighting for their future. The climate crisis is both the background of the film and the driving force behind the activist’s actions. Grossman tries to look at the now-17-year-old activist holistically, almost fictionalising her coming-of-age.
The fight against climate change and the ossified political system are connected with her personal struggle with Asperger's syndrome and the search for one's place and acceptance in the world. The condition, being part of what Greta is, is both a challenge and an aid in dealing with the Goliath she is facing.
The fight against climate change and the ossified political system are connected with her personal struggle with Asperger's syndrome and the search for one's place and acceptance in the world. The condition, being part of what Greta is, is both a challenge and an aid in dealing with the Goliath she is facing.
- 11/20/2020
- by Mateusz Tarwacki
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
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