Moviefone Editorial

Author: Wendy Lee Szany

  • ‘Candy Cane Lane’ Global Virtual Press Conference

    Thaddeus J. Mixson as Nick Carver, Genneya Walton as Joy Carver, Madison Thomas as Holly Carver, Tracee Ellis Ross as Carol Carver, and Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver star in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    (L to R) Thaddeus J. Mixson as Nick Carver, Genneya Walton as Joy Carver, Madison Thomas as Holly Carver, Tracee Ellis Ross as Carol Carver, and Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver star in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Claudette Barius. © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.

    ‘Candy Cane Lane’ is a comedy adventure for the family, filled with holiday cheers, hilarious hijinks, and the importance of communicating and working together as a family. What starts off as a friendly neighborhood Christmas decorating contest quickly turns into chaos as Chris Carver crosses paths with a mischievous elf with a naughty agenda.

    The movie stars Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, and is directed by Reginald Hudlin (‘Boomerang’), ‘Candy Can Lane’ premieres on Prime Video and in select theaters in Los Angeles and New York on December 1, 2023.
    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of attending the virtual global press conference for ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ In attendance were director Reginald Hudlin, Eddie Murphy, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jillian Bell, Chris Redd, Robin Thede, D.C. Young Fly, Thaddeus J. Mixson, Genneya Walton, Madison Thomas, and screenwriter Kelly Younger.
    Here are 9 things we learned from the ‘Candy Cane Lane’ virtual press conference:

    1. ‘Candy Cane Lane’ is Eddie Murphy’s first Christmas movie, technically

    Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Claudette Barius. © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
    Yes, this movie is technically Eddie Murphy’s first Christmas movie. While the actor’s expansive filmography includes titles such as ‘Coming To America’ and ‘Trading Places,’ in which both movies take place during the holiday season, ‘Candy Cane Lane’ fully embraces everything surrounding the holiday and its themes.
    When asked what it is about this Christmas movie that he loves so much, Murphy said:
    Eddie Murphy: I thought that script was unique, and I thought that it had all the elements that you’re supposed to have in a Christmas movie where you could watch it over and over again. I know the movies that I watched, the Christmas movies, we watched them every year all the time, and I thought this could be one of those kinds of movies that families could revisit.

    Related Article: Reginald Hudlin Talks ‘Candy Cane Lane’ and Working with Eddie Murphy

    2. Eddie Murphy and Reginald Hudlin reunite 30 years later for ‘Candy Cane Lane’

    Reginald Hudlin and Eddie Murphy attend Amazon Studios Candy 'Cane Lane World' Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    (L to R) Reginald Hudlin and Eddie Murphy attend Amazon Studios Candy ‘Cane Lane World’ Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    The pair first worked together on the 1992 rom-com ‘Boomerang.’ Hudlin had been interested in making a Christmas movie and learned during a meeting with Amazon that Murphy was also interested. Everything aligned for the actor and director to reunion 30 years after their first collaboration.
    Reginald Hudlin: Yeah, we had been talking, we would connect and we would throw ideas back and forth. And then, I was meeting with Amazon and I was like, “I really want to do a Christmas movie.” “We have a Christmas movie and Eddie Murphy wants to do it.” I’m like, “Let’s start Monday.” It’s not complicated.
    Eddie Murphy attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Eddie Murphy attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Eddie Murphy: But actually, he put together this great presentation, the best I’d ever seen anybody put together, and how he would do the movie and stuff. It was like, “Hey, this is a no-brainer. He just saw the whole thing from the beginning.”

    3. Tracee Ellis Ross on ‘Candy Cane Lane’ capturing all the elements of a Christmas movie

    Tracee Ellis Ross attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Tracee Ellis Ross attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Playing opposite Eddie Murphy’s Chris Carver is Tracee Ellis Ross as Carol Carver. During the press conference, Ross talks about what defines an iconic Christmas movie for her.
    Tracee Ellis Ross: I think love, family, and a message that’s at the center of it, which we have in this movie, that the family comes together to conquer a bad elf, a rogue elf, so to speak. I think the thing that’s special about this movie is it’s an adventure comedy Christmas movie. It’s funny, there’s adventure. As I said, there’s hijinks, action, children, lots of lights and decorations, special effects, Eddie Murphy. These are a lot of the elements, but it’s a good story that has all these elements on it, and we hope that it becomes a holiday classic.

    4. The younger cast was horrified on their first day on set, for the best reasons possible

    Genneya Walton attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Genneya Walton attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Rounding out the Carver family are Thaddeus J. Mixson as Nick Carver, Genneya Walton as Joy Carver, and Madison Thomas as Holly Carver. ‘Candy Cane Lane’ isn’t their first acting job, but it is their first time working with a legend such as Eddie Murphy.
    Genneya Walton: First of all, I was horrified for the best reasons possible. I was like, “Girl, you better have your stuff together.’ I think my first day was on the track scene.
    Speaking to Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, she says:
    “I look up to you guys so much, and I’m inspired by all of your work, so getting to work with you guys is wonderful, and I learned so much truly, just from watching you guys do what you do, so it was freaking sick.”
    Co-stars Mixson and Thomas express the same sentiment.
    Thaddeus J. Mixon: I’ll tell you right now, boy, I was nervous. I was nervous. I ain’t know what, I was just like, man, I was just watching y’all on TV. Now, I’m about to actually share the screen with y’all. It is truly an honor for real. I’m blessed to even have the opportunity to even work with y’all. And also, work with Reggie as well. I worked with him on my first ever movie, so it’s always fun when I work with him, so it’s a blessing.
    Thaddeus J. Mixson attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Thaddeus J. Mixson attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Madison Thomas: Yeah, I was very nervous because I didn’t know what was happening. I didn’t know anything. I’m going to be honest. I didn’t know anybody. But then, we started working more on set and then I kind of felt comfortable, and then that’s how we started building a relationship.
    Madison Thomas attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Madison Thomas attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.

    5. Jillian Bell as the mischievous elf, Pepper

    Jillian Bell attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Jillian Bell attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    When Eddie Murphy’s character Chris comes across a mysterious Christmas decor store, he is enthralled by the elaborate and magical items. However, the store was run by Pepper- a mischievous elf who liked to play tricks on unsuspecting customers.
    Bell elaborates on what drew her to the character.
    Jillian Bell: The first time I read the script, I just kept talking like her out loud, which is a good sign. It’s a bad sign if you’re not an actor. As an actor, it was a good sign to me because I just kept doing her voice. And I was like, “Oh, there’s something here.” And I just fell in love with the world of it. I was so excited for the opportunity to get to work with everybody that was involved and I just think Reggie is one of the kindest, most wonderful directors, and — you guys can attest this too, like, if you have a creative idea and you’re nervous about it. There’s no nerves attached, approaching Reggie with it. So I think I think after our first meeting, I was like, oh, no, I really want to do this film.
    Tracee Ellis Ross and Robin Thede chimes in about Bell’s performance in the film:
    Robin Thede: The brilliant thing about Jillian Bell is that she does bring that humanity to these characters and exactly what Kelly [Younger] had envisioned, which is that she’s not just a one-note evil person. She truly believes in what she’s doing and like, you get it like. I don’t think that I thought I was rooting against Pepper. I was just like, “Oh, well, obviously you can’t win, but like you’re kind of like misguided. She’s also really fun, and evil and violent, and all of that. But there’s just some really epic acting moments, too.
    Robin Thede attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Robin Thede attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Tracee Ellis Ross: Jillian Bell is… Yes. Seriously, that moment when she appears in this, you’re just like, “What is happening? And why does that twinkle in her eye actually look like evil in her eye?”
    And as Pepper says in the movie, “What’s Christmas without a little terror?”

    6. The cast on working with Nick Offerman

    Robin Thede as, Cordelia, Nick Offerman as, Pip, and Chris Redd as, Gary, in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    (L to R) Robin Thede as, Cordelia, Nick Offerman as, Pip, and Chris Redd as, Gary, in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Courtesy of Prime Video.
    © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
    Nick Offerman (‘The Last of Us’) plays Pip, a man who’s been turned into a porcelain miniature figure by Pepper. He stars alongside Robin Thede’s Cordelia and Chris Redd’s Lamplighter Gary, who have also fallen to the same fate.
    Offerman was not present at the press conference, but his co-stars praised his performance.
    Robin Thede: Nick Offerman talks, everything stops.
    According to Hudlin, it was Offerman’s idea to keep his character British.
    Reginald Hudlin: First of all, Nick was just like, “You know, there’s always British actors and play American parts. I’m gonna play a British part.” I was like, “Oh, that’s great.” Because again, I just wanted the three village people, as we call you guys as different as possible, right? And it’s just like, I’m like, “Okay, I don’t know, my son’s gonna take this because like, he’s so ‘Parks and Rec.’ He’s so locked in.” I’m like, “But, you know, Nick Offerman’s a genius. We’re gonna let him do this.” And he just found a new hilarious character and the way he played off the two of you was exquisite.
    Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver, Jillian Bell as Pepper, and Madison Thomas as Holly Carver star in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    (L to R) Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver, Jillian Bell as Pepper, and Madison Thomas as Holly Carver star in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Claudette Barius. © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
    Jillian Bell: His first line was very reminiscent of ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles.’ And my heart broke for him. And I’m like, he literally has been on screen for 10 seconds. I’m in I’m invested. I mean, I was invested in the tiny version of it, but I’m saying just his face too, like, he is an incredible actor, and he should be in so many.

    7. The script is inspired by a personal story, minus the evil elf

    Eddie Murphy and Kelly Younger attend Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    (L to R) Eddie Murphy and Kelly Younger attend Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Writer Kelly Younger based the story on his personal experience as well as the location.
    Kelly Younger: It is a personal true story. My parents live on the street that leads into Candy Cane Lane and El Segundo. They’ve lived there for many years. My dad over-decorates every year, goes over the top, much to my mother’s dismay.
    He continues:
    Kelly Younger: I wanted to bring in magic and mischief and to have lot of fun, but it was really important to me that it was grounded in a real family. And I think especially what Eddie and Tracee did, how they captured what felt like a very real relationship. And this family felt very, really real. To have these folks bring it to life is just wonderful.

    8. The process of blending live-action and CGI together

    Jillian Bell as ‘Pepper,’ Eddie Murphy as ‘Chris Carver,’ and Madison Thomas as ‘Holly Carver’ star in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    (L to R) Jillian Bell as ‘Pepper,’ Eddie Murphy as ‘Chris Carver,’ and Madison Thomas as ‘Holly Carver’ star in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Claudette Barius. © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
    Inside Pepper’s shop, Chris Carver comes across a miniature Christmas town, along with miniature figures – Pip, Cordelia, and Lamplighter Gary, who come to life. The cast talks about the process of making those scenes come together.
    It took the special effects team from ILM and teamwork from the cast and crew to blend the human actors and the porcelain figures together in the final product. Hudlin talks about working with ILM:
    Reginald Hudlin: They had face references but not body references, and [the actors] came up with all this fantastic physical comedy on top of the great verbal comedy, and that was amazing. It was a great collaboration working with them on that.
    Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver and Tracee Ellis Ross as Carol Carver star in 'Candy Cane Lane.'
    (L to R) Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver and Tracee Ellis Ross as Carol Carver star in ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Photo: Claudette Barius. © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
    Eddie Murphy: Yeah, when you see the special effects shots and stuff like that, those things are really time-consuming and it’s awkward, and it’s just a lot of work doing a sequence like that. It’s really putting a jigsaw puzzle together when you’re doing those sequences, so it was just long and frustrating.
    Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross attend Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    (L to R) Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross attend Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Tracee Ellis Ross: Yeah, because you’re acting with an imaginary thing, and it requires a different kind of acting.
    Although Offerman, Thede, and Redd are playing CGI characters, Murphy wanted everyone on set together for every scene to make it more authentic.
    Reginald Hudlin: The very fact that I didn’t intend for us to have to invent some technology, but we did. We had this reindeer system so that the actors, the villagers, and the live-action actors could act in the same scene at the same time and improvise.
    Reginald Hudlin attends Amazon Studios Candy 'Cane Lane World' Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Reginald Hudlin attends Amazon Studios Candy ‘Cane Lane World’ Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Chris Redd: We were in these little booths. And like, so the animators could create, like, animate while we talked, and that was some different ways to see each other, so we were just riffing the whole time.
    Chris Redd attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Chris Redd attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Robin Thede: The cool thing about the process, which was so fun, is that Eddie was really like, “No, I want them on stage with us rehearsing in person”, right in our full size, although I’ve not much taller than my ornament. But that was really fun. So I was saying earlier, like, we were really involved in most of the scenes in the movie, even if you don’t see us on screen, because it was really important to Eddie and Tracy and the kids and everybody that we were there and bouncing off of them just in case we were going to jump in. So all those conversations where we’re at the house or they were at their house or whatever, we were there for months because it was important to really get that vibe, and I think you feel it because they were looking at just lights or like little monopoly pieces. So we would rehearse in person, and then we would be banished to our little sound booths, but we could see them on a monitor, and they could hear us in their IEMs. And then they would shoot our faces with like a GoPro.

    9. The cast on working with Eddie Murphy

    Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross attend Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    (L to R) Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross attend Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Eddie Murphy has been in the industry for over 40 years. His extensive list of credits vary from comedy to action to drama and has been in many classic such as ‘Beverly Hills Cop,’ ‘Coming To America,’ ‘The Nutty Professor,’ ‘Shrek,’ ‘Mulan,’ ‘Dreamgirls,’ ‘Dolemite Is My Name,’ and more.
    The cast talks about being fans of his work and about their experience working with him on ‘Candy Cane Lane.’
    Tracee Ellis Ross: The thing about Eddie is he’s hilarious. But, what makes everyone hilarious around him is he’s a really generous actor. For Eddie, it’s about the groundedness, which is the reason that I have loved his comedy for so long. It’s not based in being funny. It’s based in being real. And so, there’s a connection that has to be there for it to come across in the right way, and that’s what he does. He’s not sitting there trying to get you to set up his funny and his jokes. He’s actually in a scene playing with you. That’s what makes it fun, and that’s what makes it work. I think, I mean, I don’t know about you guys, but that’s what I experienced, and what a treat and an honor at this point in my career to be able to work with somebody that you’ve admired, whose work you’ve known and grown up with to a certain extent.
    Tracee Ellis Ross attends Amazon Studios 'Candy Cane Lane' World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Tracee Ellis Ross attends Amazon Studios ‘Candy Cane Lane’ World Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    Reginald Hudlin: This is the thing. The thing is, I’ve always said that Eddie deserved an Oscar for his performance in ‘The Nutty Professor.’ Because it’s like there’s no acting school that says this is how to act against a tennis ball, but he did that. He played two different women that were completely different women, but because people go, “Oh, it’s just laughs. It’s not funny. That’s not hard.” It’s incredibly hard. He was a pioneer in that style of performance, which he doesn’t get credit for.
    D.C. Young Fly attends Amazon Studios Candy 'Cane Lane World' Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    D.C. Young Fly attends Amazon Studios Candy ‘Cane Lane World’ Premiere in Los Angeles on Nov 28, 2023.
    D. C. Young Fly: If you sit back and watch all the different elements and understand like, just Christmas, and specials, and understanding that Eddie is an icon. It’s just being around that it brings that out of us, you know what I’m saying? I feel like everybody was just trying to be on their A-game because this is an Eddie Murphy movie. Why wouldn’t we come here and not be on our A-game?
    Chris Redd: I swear to God, the first day, I think I wrote fifteen jokes on the way to set, just like “I might use them.”
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    What is the Plot of ‘Candy Cane Lane’?

    A local neighborhood hosts an annual contest over who has the best decorated home for Christmas; desperate to win, Chris Carver (Eddie Murphy) makes a deal with a charismatic stranger, Pepper (Jillian Bell), for the use of magic to make his home the most festive. He soon learns that Pepper is an evil elf who has made similar deals in the past, with her victims being transformed into plastic dolls. Chris must rally his family to stop Pepper from unleashing misery upon his friends and neighbors and break the deal before he loses everything.

    Who’s in the cast of ‘Candy Cane Lane’?

    'Candy Cane Lane' starring Eddie Murphy premieres on Prime Video on December 1st.
    ‘Candy Cane Lane’ starring Eddie Murphy premieres on Prime Video on December 1st.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Candy Cane Lane’:

    Buy Eddie Murphy Movies On Amazon

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  • Where To Watch The Adrenaline-Fueled ‘Expen4bles’

    Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as “Easy Day”, Megan Fox as “Gina”, Dolph Lundgren as “Gunner Jensen,” Jacob Scipio as “Galan” Andy Garcia as “Marsh” in 'Expend4bles.'
    (L to R) Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as “Easy Day”, Megan Fox as “Gina”, Dolph Lundgren as “Gunner Jensen,” Jacob Scipio as “Galan” Andy Garcia as “Marsh” in ‘Expend4bles.’ Copyright: EX4 Productions, Inc. 2022.

    Action stars Jason Statham and Sylvester Stallone return for ‘Expend4bles’, and they’ve brought the team along for the ride. The film promises to be bigger and more explosive than before, return to its R-rating, and introduce a cast of new characters to the franchise.

    Where Can I Watch ‘Expend4bles’?

    Jason Statham as Lee Christmas in 'The Expendables 4.'
    Jason Statham as Lee Christmas in ‘The Expendables 4.’

    ‘Expend4bles’ was released domestically on September 22, 2023. Prior to the movie’s release, standee posters for the film were revealed at CinemaCon in 2022, where attendees were treated to an exclusive viewing of the teaser trailer during Lionsgate’s presentation.

    Buy Tickets: ‘Expend4bles’ Movie Showtimes

    Currently, the movie can be found showing in some theaters, but it has already made its way to VOD. Available to rent for $19.99 or purchase for $24.99 on mainstream services such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Pay, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft.

    Where to Watch: ‘Expend4bles’ Online

    For those waiting on a home release, the movie will be released on UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD on December 26, just barely missing the holidays. ‘Expend4bles’ has a total runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes.

    Buy ‘Expend4bles’ on Amazon

    When Will ‘Expend4bles’ Be Available To Stream?

    Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross in 'The Expendables 4.'
    Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross in ‘The Expendables 4.’

    Lionsgate, the studio behind the action franchise, recently signed a deal with Peacock and Roku to stream the films once it is finished with its theatrical run. However, there are no confirmed dates announced for when ‘Expend4bles’ will stream on Peacock or Roku.

    Viewers can also look to Starz once the movie is available for streaming.

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    The Newcomers

    Megan Fox, Andy García, and Jacob Scipio in 'The Expendables 4.'
    (L to R) Megan Fox, Andy García, and Jacob Scipio in ‘The Expendables 4.’

    Almost 10 years since the third ‘Expendables,’ the fourth installment is Stallon’s final bow in the franchise as he passes the torch on to Jason Statham. As Barney’s past catches up with him, it is up to Christmas and new team members to carry out the team’s mission. Fox and Statham share the screen with witty banter and have nice chemistry, further exploring the character of Christmas.

    Joining the cast are Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as Easy Day, Megan Fox as Gina, Tony Jaa as Decha, Iko Uwais as the film’s villain Suarto Rahmat, Andy Garcia as Marsh, Levy Tran as Lash, and Jacob Scipio as Galan.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Expend4bles’ 

    Bloodier Than Before

    Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross in 'Expend4bles.'
    Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross in ‘Expend4bles.’

    The first two films in the franchise were rated R for its gore and violence, which, given its premise and action scenes, made sense. However, the third film, ‘The Expendables 3,’ got a PG-13 rating in order to capture a wider audience. This meant the film was essentially bloodless. Fans of the series were unhappy with the PG-13 rating and spoke out via social media for future films to return to its R rating.

    In the official red band trailer for ‘Expend4bles’, it opens with the title card, “We heard you loud and clear,” followed by fans’ comments asking for more blood and violence and to reinstate its R-rating. The video goes on to show endless action, accompanied by plenty of blood and gore, to satisfy the fans.

    In an interview with Mandatory, Sylvester Stallone says he believes the PG-13 rating was a miscalculation.

    “Absolutely unequivocally yes. I believe it was a horrible miscalculation on everyone’s part in trying to reach a wider audience, but in doing such, diminish the violence that the audience expects. I’m quite certain it won’t happen again.”

    Watch the official red band trailer for ‘Expend4bles’ below:

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    The official synopsis for ‘Expend4bles’ is below:

    “A new generation of stars join the world’s top action stars for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Expend4bles. Reuniting as the team of elite mercenaries, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, and Sylvester Stallone are joined for the first time by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia. Armed with every weapon they can get their hands on and the skills to use them, The Expendables are the world’s last line of defense and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. But new team members with new styles and tactics are going to give “new blood” a whole new meaning.”

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘Expend4bles’?

    Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Levy Tran, Jacob Scipio in 'The Expendables 4.'
    (L to R) Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Levy Tran, Jacob Scipio in ‘The Expendables 4.’

    The film sees the return of Sylvester Stallone (‘Samaritan‘) as Barney Ross, Jason Statham (‘Fast X’) as Lee Christmas, Dolph Lungren (‘Aquaman‘) as Gunner Jensen, and Randy Couture as (‘Phoenix‘) Toll Road. Joining the action franchise are Megan Fox (‘Jonah Hex‘) as Gina, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (‘Den of Thieves‘) as Easy Day, Tony Jaa (‘xXx: Return of Xander Cage’) as Decha, Iko Uwais (‘Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins’) as Suarto Rahmat, Andy Garcia (‘The Godfather Part III‘) as Marsh, Levy Tran (‘Secret Headquarters‘) as Lash, and Jacob Scipio (‘Bad Boys for Life‘) as Galan.

    'The Expendables 4' is scheduled to be released in the United States on September 22, 2023, by Lionsgate.
    ‘The Expendables 4’ is scheduled to be released in the United States on September 22, 2023, by Lionsgate.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Expend4bles’:

    To watch our exclusive interviews with the director and producers of ‘Expend4bles,’ please click on the video player below.

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  • ‘Wish’ Interview: Disney Animation’s Jennifer Lee

    Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, speaks onstage at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for 'Wish' at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023.
    Jennifer Lee, CCO, Disney Animation Studios, speaks onstage at the Long Lead Press Day & In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.

    Preview: 

    • Jennifer Lee talks about writing and crafting an original fairy tale versus adapting from an existing story and what it is like not to have to stay within the guidelines of a story
    • The future of Disney animation and what the next generation of artists can bring
    • Lee hints at more stories to be told with Elsa and Anna, “ I’m proud of where they’re gonna go next.”

    Walt Disney Studio’s animated feature ‘Wish’ will arrive in theaters on November 22nd. Directed by Chris Buck (‘Frozen II’) and Fawn Veerasunthorn (‘Raya and the Last Dragon’), the story pays homage to the classic Disney message of wishing upon a star. The art style of ‘Wish’ is also inspired by classics such as ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,’ ‘Pinocchio,’ and ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer, Jennifer Lee, about writing and crafting an original fairy tale, the many iterations of the character Star, the future of Disney animation, and the possibilities the new generation of artists can bring.

    I’M A STAR – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    I’M A STAR – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Moviefone: To begin with, you’ve worked on many Disney animated films including ‘Frozen,’ ‘Frozen II,’ and ‘Zootopia,’ just to name a few. Can you talk about writing an original story with ‘Wish,’ versus adapting an existing tale and being able to write without having to stay within the guidelines of an existing story?

    Jennifer Lee: You know, I will say it’s something I almost forgot in a moment because we’ve gotten so steeped in this story for a long time. As a fairy tale, but recognizing, we were creating one from scratch. At first, that was very scary. Because it is like you can do anything, but what is the thing to do? I think what was so wonderful about it was getting to make discoveries that I think we may not have been able to make. I believe in a limited palette at times for focus. But I think in this case, I look at the character of Star, and Star went through many iterations. At one point talked, at one point could turn into a human, at one point, you know, into other things and, to have the freedom to recognize what we said. But hope and possibility don’t talk. They just are there for you. Why would Star speak? It’s millions of years old, it’s evolved beyond language, like we would just take these things that were so freeing, that led us to have really fun discoveries. There was nothing like, “Oh, but people are gonna expect us because in the story it’s that” and I think that that is huge that we can do that. But in many ways, what’s interesting is, and Peter Del Vecho has talked about this, is a moment where the story starts to tell you what it means, and it almost takes on a life of its own. So what’s funny for me is the ‘Wish’ story now, it’s like it’s always been. It’s like, that’s not how we got there but eventually, it starts to just land in a way that you’re bringing to life something that actually already exists. That’s a weird thing that I think only in animation I have ever experienced.

    Related Article: Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthron Talk Easter Eggs In ‘Wish’

    STARRING ROLE – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    STARRING ROLE – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: As Chief Creative Officer and as you celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary, where do you see the future of Disney animation going?

    JL: Well, I think in a very fun way, what I’m seeing is the new generation, and in a really great way, especially with this last decade, I’ve been there watching a whole new team of artists, especially the way animation in the world is in a great place. People are really connecting with it. I feel very lucky to be a part of it. We always say when the animation is doing well, that’s good for all the artists, and so it’s creating new opportunities. I think the new voices of animation are exciting, and they’re daring. I see now for a lot of us who have been doing this for a while or have had the chance to experience our films beyond the world. We have a responsibility now to that new generation because there’s tons of talent. But we can experience it together. I think we’ll find that “Where’s the new voices going?” It’ll be up to them. So right now, I’m loving being in this role because I get to work with them, get to have lunches with the story team – multiple teams, but with the story crew, and we just talked about story. We talk about comedy, and it’s just all about creating that connection in our legacy that’s always been, which is building that next generation. But I think when I came in, I felt like that I was not that young, but I was new. I felt like that receiver as a new generation. You know, almost 13 years later, I feel like that shift where I can see it more clearly. It’s a really fun and ambitious time.

    Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) in Walt Disney Pictures' 'Frozen.'
    (L to R) Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) in Walt Disney Pictures’ ‘Frozen.’

    MF: Finally, speaking of the future of Disney animation, will there be more stories for Anna and Elsa from ‘Frozen’?

    JL: All I’d say, as Bob Iger himself mentioned we are in development on more ‘Frozen’. That’s all I can say. Because there is more story to tell. I love these women, and I think I’m proud of where they’re gonna go next.

    rjoC2SsUUplDR32NluOcZ7

    What Is The Plot Of ‘Wish’?

    Set in the magical kingdom of Rosas, the story introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.

    Who Is In the Cast of ‘Wish’?

    'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Wish:’

    Buy Tickets: ‘Wish’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Disney Animated Movies on Amazon

    6JcZYClo

  • Movie Review: ‘Wish’

    I’M A STAR – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    I’M A STAR – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer, songwriter and musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Wish,’ the latest entry from Walt Disney Studios features a fantasy musical adventure that captures the feeling of classic Disney animation and a fresh new story on the importance of staying true to yourself and the power of wishes. The movie will be released in theaters on November 22nd.

    Initial Thoughts

    Right off the bat, the audience will recognize the animation style inspired by Disney classics such as ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Pinocchio,’ and ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.’ The blending of 3D animation and 2D hand-drawn watercolor is something we haven’t seen before in Disney animation and gives the film a vintage look.

    The story explores the importance of wishes, how even a simple wish can inspire one’s path in life, and what happens when that is taken away. Complete with catchy songs by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice that’ll get you tapping your toes and captivating performances from Ariana DeBose as Asha and Chris Pine as King Magnifico.

    Story and Direction

    Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones, Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck speak for "Wish" at the Long Lead Press Day In-Person Presentation for 'Wish' at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023.
    (L to R) Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones, Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck speak for “Wish” at the Long Lead Press Day In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.

    ‘Wish’ is co-directed by Chris Buck (‘Frozen II’) and Fawn Veerasunthron (‘Raya and the Last Dragon’), with screenplay written by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore. The movie will take you down the road of nostalgia with the opening of the film pans in on a storybook, just as movies such as ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,’ ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ and ‘Pinocchio’ did.

    After a quick exposition of King Magnifico’s past, we understand why he began studying magic to become a sorcerer and how the Kingdom of Rosas came to be – located in the Mediterranean Sea and a travel destination for all. It is also the place where anyone over the age of 18 can give their wish to King Magnifico for a chance to have it granted at a wishing ceremony.

    The story introduces 17-year-old Asha, who works as a tour guide in Rosas and is about to interview to be the King’s apprentice. During the interview, it is revealed that while King Magnifico keeps the townspeople’s wishes safe, he doesn’t intend to grant most wishes. When Ahsa suggests the King return the ungranted wishes, he becomes upset and explains that he only grants wishes he sees fit to keep Rosas safe. When Ahsa further argues that wishes can’t be harmful King Magnifico retaliates by telling her he would never grant her grandfather Sabino’s wish.

    SPINNING A YARN – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Asha’s new ally communicates in creative ways, making captivating use of a magenta ball of yarn. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer/songwriter/musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    SPINNING A YARN – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” sharp-witted idealist Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) makes a wish so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Asha’s new ally communicates in creative ways, making captivating use of a magenta ball of yarn. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” features original songs by Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Julia Michaels and Grammy-winning producer/songwriter/musician Benjamin Rice. The epic animated musical opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Frustrated by this, Asha runs to the giant tree in the forest – the same one she and her father often visited during her childhood – and sings out her plead to the stars. Her wish was so passionate that it manifested a star from the sky into a ball of energy with magical powers. The night sky lights up with Star’s arrival, seen by all in the kingdom, including King Magnifico, who declares that any magic (other than what he conjures) is illegal and whoever uses magic is deemed a traitor.

    This propels the story into Asha rushing against time to find a way to free and return the wishes to the people of Rosas, with the help of Star, her goat sidekick Valentino, and her band of friends.

    The pacing of this movie is well-balanced, with the first act establishing the origins of Rosas, the relationship between Asha and her best friends, and King Magnifico’s past. The second act kicks into high gear as Asha works up a plan to free the wishes, all the while keeping Star hidden from King Magnifico. The songs are well-placed throughout and extremely catchy.

    Animation Style And Easter Eggs

    ASHA’S PLIGHT – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic musical “Wish,” Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) and her pajama-wearing pet goat, Valentino (voice of Alan Tudyk), live in the magical kingdom of Rosas, where wishes really do come true. But when Asha discovers a devastating truth about everyone’s wishes, she turns to the sky. Her wish is so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ASHA’S PLIGHT – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic musical “Wish,” Asha (voice of Ariana DeBose) and her pajama-wearing pet goat, Valentino (voice of Alan Tudyk), live in the magical kingdom of Rosas, where wishes really do come true. But when Asha discovers a devastating truth about everyone’s wishes, she turns to the sky. Her wish is so powerful, it’s answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Helmed by Oscar®-winning director Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, “Wish” opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    The overall look of ‘Wish’ preserves what we loved about the classics yet it retains the updated look wth 3D animation. It is clear to see that Buck and Veerasunthorn themselves are huge fans of Disney. Their love and appreciate of those films in is clearly shown in scenes that take places in the forest, as well as in the town of Rosas.

    Leaning into the nostalgia even more are the easter eggs seen throughout the film. Most are subtle and does not distract from the movie. Sharp eyed fans can spot nods to films like ‘Bambi,’ ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Cinderella,” ‘Peter Pan’ and more. Asha’s group of friends is a nod to the seven dwarves as some of their character design and characteristics hints at at specific traits of the dwarves. The easter eggs sprinkled throughout are not only visual. If you listen carefully, you’ll also hear it in the dialogue and music.

    Related Article: Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthron Talk Easter Eggs In ‘Wish’

    The Songs of ‘Wish’

    'Wish' – Asha. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ – Asha. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    There are seven brand new songs in ‘Wish,’ written by Julia Michaels and Benjamin Rice. Michaels is the youngest songwriter to have worked on a Disney animated feature, and her style brings a contemporary sound to the mix. DeBose’s solo “This Wish” shows off her vocal range and ability to capture the raw emotion of Asha in her moment of desperation and hones in on the empowering message of believing in and fighting for your truth. This ballad has the potential to have the effect of ‘Frozen’s “Let It Go.”

    Another standout number is King Magnifico’s “This Is The Thanks I Get?!” where he descends into dark magic and villainy. As the citizens of Rosas begin to question why they can’t remember their wishes, the King’s charming facade starts to crack. This is an upbeat song with clever lyrics, as the King sings about being under-appreciated after everything he’s done for the kingdom, being constantly asked for more, and ultimately turning to the forbidden spell book. Chris Pine delivers on all fronts in this fun and entertaining number.

    The other songs in ‘Wish’ include “Welcome To Rosas,” “At All Costs,” “I’m A Star,” “Knowing What I Know Now,” and “This Wish (Reprise).”

    Final Thoughts

    IT’S GOOD TO BE KING – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” King Magnifico is the most powerful person in the kingdom of Rosas, where wishes really do come true. People come from all around the world to give their wishes to Magnifico, a charming and confident king who promises to grant their deepest desires—someday. But the king isn’t entirely altruistic; he alone decides whose wish will be granted, and he relishes the control. Featuring the voice of Chris Pine as King Magnifico, the epic animated musical “Wish” hits the big screen on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    IT’S GOOD TO BE KING – In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish,” King Magnifico is the most powerful person in the kingdom of Rosas, where wishes really do come true. People come from all around the world to give their wishes to Magnifico, a charming and confident king who promises to grant their deepest desires—someday. But the king isn’t entirely altruistic; he alone decides whose wish will be granted, and he relishes the control. Featuring the voice of Chris Pine as King Magnifico, the epic animated musical “Wish” hits the big screen on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Wish’ embraces all that is classic Disney animation, from the art style to the message of never stop believing in yourself (and your wishes). The idea of wishing upon a star may be a tale as old as time, but it is told in a refreshing way that’ll capture audiences young and old. The songs are incredibly catchy, and the adorable sidekicks Star and Valentino are guaranteed to steal your heart.

    Chris Pine’s King Magnifico makes a magnificent villain and is extremely very fun to watch, though they could have gone into greater detail about his backstory on why he turned to sorcery, as it would have made his falling into dark magic all the more worth while.

    ‘Wish’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.

    rjoC2SsUUplDR32NluOcZ7

    What Is The Story of ‘Wish’?

    Set in the magical kingdom of Rosas, the story introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.

    Who Is In ‘Wish’?

    'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Wish:’

    Buy Tickets: ‘Wish’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Disney Animated Movies on Amazon

    6JcZYClo

  • ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ Virtual Press Conference

    ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ will be in theaters on November 17th.
    ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ will be in theaters on November 17th.

    ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ is a prequel to the ‘The Hunger Games‘ trilogy and tells the tale of a young Coriolanus Snow before he became president of Panem and dives into the history of the Games.

    The movie is directed by Francis Lawrence, who also helmed ‘The Hunger Games’ films ‘Catching Fire’ and ‘Mockingjay’, parts one and two. ‘The Balland of Songbirds and Snakes’ premieres in theaters on November 17, 2023.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of attending the virtual press conference for ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Talent in attendance were Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Hunter Schafer, and Josh Andrés Rivera.

    Here are 10 things we learned from the ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ virtual press conference:

    1. The cast were huge fans of ‘The Hunger Games’ novels and movies prior to being cast 

    Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird and Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    (L to R) Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird and Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    The cast elaborates on their love for the novels and movies and even dressed up as characters inspired by the franchise.

    Rachel Zegler: I did read all of the books, and I saw all the movies as they came out, and it was a really lovely kind of bonding experience for my mom, my older sister and I, because we all read them together and watched them together and it was so wonderful.

    Co-star Hunter Schafer talked about loving the costume designs described in the novels so much she created her own.

    Hunter Schafer: I read the books in middle school and was deeply obsessed, and then saw the first movie and got obsessed with the costumes, and I made my own literal Capitol person costume for Halloween one year. I was drawing my own graphic novels of the book. It was a real deep obsession for a while, so it feels really full circle to be here now doing this.

    2. Tom Blyth on stepping into Donald Sutherland’s shoes in portraying a young Coriolanus Snow

    Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

    Blyth, who has been a fan of the books and movies since its first release, elaborates on seeing Sutherland’s performance as President Snow and finding out his history in the prequel novel.

    Tom Blyth: Watching what Donald Sutherland did with (Coriolanus Snow), that was kind of like, deliciously evil. Then getting to kind of rewind the history tapes and look at why he became like that, and also just question his morality and get to go through that up and down that he goes through in the book. Yeah, I mean it was an absolute dream for me as an actor.

    The actor talks further about whether Sutherland’s performance had an impact on how he formed a younger version of the character:

    Tom Blyth: Very early on, I kind of put that to the side and Francis and I talked about making it my own, and also just kind of asking what drives him now as opposed to what drives him later on when he is president and a dictator and a tyrant.

    Blyth continues:

    Tom Blyth: I think what the fans are drawn to as a character is seeing that he’s not just one thing, he ends up as a tyrant, but 64 years before that he was something else entirely. The interesting part is seeing what he goes through to get there. To your point, I think by the end, I wanted him to be more like the President Snow that we know. But at the beginning, he’s something completely different and younger.

    3. Rachel Zegler finds similarities in Lucy Gray Baird and Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen

    Stanley Tucci and Jennifer Lawrence
    (L to R) Stanley Tucci and Jennifer Lawrence in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” AP Photo/Lionsgate, Murray Close.

    When asked whether Zegler took any lessons from Jennifer Lawrence’s performance of Katniss and applied them to her own, she says:

    Rachel Zegler: I just think as actors watching Jennifer’s performance in the original trilogy is watching a masterclass performance in general. When it came to the approach of Lucy Gray, I kind of felt like I didn’t have to. I came to what Tom was saying, it kind of puts an unnecessary pressure because it’s a different character at a different time of Panem. I feel like Lucy Gray is a war-torn teenager who’s had everything she knows ripped from her, yet she’s still making the best of it.

    The actress talks about Lucy Gray’s impact on Snow and how that haunts him later on in life when he encounters Katniss.

    Rachel Zegler: I do think that there’s elements of Katniss within her and that makes it all the more fun to go back and watch the original trilogy and see how Coriolanus remains haunted by Lucy Gray even in his late life because there are echoes of her within Katniss Everdeen.

    4. Tom Blyth and Josh Andrés Rivera were the first cast members to meet

    A scene from 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    A scene from ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

    Rivera plays Sejanus Plinth, who viewed Coriolanus as a close friend. The actors were the first to meet among the cast and formed a bond that carried into their scenes.

    Josh André Rivera: We had the real luxury of having that chemistry already be there a bit when we first had to film, because the first scene we shot actually was when Coryo has to rescue Sejanus in the arena, which, if you remember is quite vulnerable and intense, and to have that be your first day is a bit intimidating. It was definitely really nice that we had the luxury to get to know each other beforehand, because I think that manifested a good amount, personally.

    Tom Blyth recounts how Rivera accidentally saved him from a potential peanut allergy.

    Tom Blyth: One of the earliest scenes in the movie, which is the reaping day scene where all the students and mentors are gathered and then told that it’s the reaping day and that we’re being given mentees, basically. In the scene originally he was supposed to give me some cookies because he realizes that Coryo was hungry and that his family aren’t doing that well, even though they’re keeping up appearances. Josh, every time, went to give me the little packet of cookies and I’d put my hand out to reach them and it would feel really light, and I’d be like, okay, great, I’m supposed to eat them in the scene, and I’d go to open it and there’s no cookies left because Josh has been eating them on set.

    5. Who is Tigris Snow?

    Hunter Schafer as Tigris Snow in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    Hunter Schafer as Tigris Snow in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    In ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’, we get to see a younger Tigris Snow. She’s a cousin of Coriolanus and is his main support when he is selected as a mentor for the 10th Hunger Games. The character of Tigris Snow can also be seen in ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2’, portrayed by Eugenie Bondurant.

    Hunter Schafer: I distinctly remember her character in the books, and then seeing that character, because she was so striking in the ‘Mockingjay’ movie. But clearly there’s a pretty big jump from this movie to that Tigris, and I am kind of thankful for that because it allowed us to, in the same respect Tom was talking about, create our own take on this Tigris on a visual level and on a character level. It allowed so many of the literal layers of stuff that she has accumulated, by the time we meet her in Mockingjay, to let those fall away for this and kind of just bring a bit of myself into this Tigris, but also having the resource of the book, which is a blessing.

    Schafer elaborates that Tigris’ love for fashion is similar to her own.

    Hunter Schafer: I think I feel aligned with how she moves throughout the world and uses fashion as an armor, and I also just admire her values towards family and family first, and kind of operating on the fact that she’ll do anything for them.

    Related Article: Francis Lawrence and Nina Jacobson Talk ‘The Hunger Games’ Prequel

    6. Who is Sejanus Plinth?

    Josh Andrés Rivera as Sejanus Plinth and Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    (L to R) Josh Andrés Rivera as Sejanus Plinth and Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

    Played by Josh Andrés Rivera, Sejanus Plinth and his family comes from District 2 and is a student at the Capitol Academy. He forms a close friendship with Coriolanus during the Reaping and the 10th Hunger Games.

    Josh Andrés Rivera: Something I really like about him, and that definitely drew me in when we started filming, too, was the amount of friction he has with so many of the characters. Just as far as portraying something goes, that just tends to be the funner kind of thing to do is just having a lot of people disagree with you and try to convince everyone that you’re right. A lot of times, just as an actor, is really fun. His overall belief system and how that contrasted the world that he was in was really yummy.

    7. Rachel Zegler sang live for every take during filming

    Honor Gillies as Barb Azure, Konstantin Taffet as Clerk Carmine and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    (L to R) Honor Gillies as Barb Azure, Konstantin Taffet as Clerk Carmine and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    In the film, Zegler sings a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “The Hang Tree,” first heard in the 2014 film performed by Jennifer Lawrence. The actress talks about her decision to sing live for every take during filming.

    Rachel Zegler: it was kind of my choice to sing live on set. I had done it before on my first film, and I feel really confident in that sphere of performance, in general. That was what I kind of came out of the womb doing on stage, so getting to do that for my peers and on set for my crew and the creative team was something really special that I felt like I could bring to the table. When you’re working on sets like that, or when you’re even watching movies, it kind of takes you out of the world when all of a sudden somebody starts lip-syncing, and it just kind of takes you out of it.

    The actress felt it was important to the character of Lucy to sing live:

    Rachel Zegler: I felt really blessed that Francis and Nina (Jacobson) trusted me to do that, and getting to bring that into the acoustics of the hob or the stage at the reaping and all of the other places, I don’t want to spoil that Lucy Gray gets to sing, it just adds a completely different tone to the scenes. I felt like it was really important, not only to me, but also to the character that I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t perform live every take. It was a lot, and it was very strenuous, but I trained to do it, and I felt really confident with the outcome, and I hope audiences do too.

    8. The cast’s favorite costumes and set pieces from the movie

    Viola Davis as Dr Volumnia Gaul in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    Viola Davis as Dr Volumnia Gaul in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    The Capitol of Panem has always been filled with dazzling and fascinating fashion. Costume designer Trish Summerville (‘Catching Fire’) returns for the prequel movie.

    Rachel Zegler: I was definitely curious to see what Trish Summerville was going to do with the rainbow dress because, really, the only description it gets in the book is that there are pink, blue, and yellow ruffles, and that’s it. I was really wondering how she was going to bring it to life, and it was even better than I could have possibly imagined. I think it really speaks for itself, but then also with the rest of her costumes because the rest of her outfits really don’t get described too much in the book. I think Trish just took the Covey love color line and ran with it and in such a beautiful direction.

    The cast also recounts seeing locations from the book brought to life by production designer Uli Hanisch.

    Tom Blyth: The Hob as a location, for me, was just next level of direction. It was so well done. Actually, what I love about reading a book and then seeing a film adaptation is that sometimes it totally meets your expectations, and you’re like, oh yeah, that’s cathartic because it’s exactly what you had in your mind. Then sometimes your expectation is challenged, and you see something that you’re like, oh, that’s not what I thought at all, it’s even better, it’s even cooler.

    9. What music did the cast listen to when getting into character?

    Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    (L to R) Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Courtesy of Lionsgate Films. Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    Music plays a huge part in ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ The cast talks about what song or artists got them into character or in the right headspace for a scene.

    Hunter Schafer: I think there was one scene where I had to get emotional, and “Sparks” by Coldplay always like…

    Rachel Zegler: That does it?

    Hunter Schafer: Yeah.

    Blyth has several songs on his playlist depending on the scene:

    Tom Blyth: I have a pretty extensive Coryo playlist. Music is a big way in for me. I think “Money Power Glory” by Lana Del Rey is the first song on the playlist, and then it goes to “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles because that song has always since I was a kid, just made me feel really kind of like kooky, and crazy, it feels unhinged, and so when he undergoes his transformation, that was a big one. Then all the way to Wagner’s “Flight Of The Valkyries” or whatever it’s called when he is feeling epic and royalty. I don’t know, it goes all over the place.

    Josh Andrés Rivera: I listened to a lot of Silk Sonic. I don’t know that it got me into character, but I really liked that album.

    10. The cast talk about what strategies or weapon they would bring into the Hunger Games if they were to complete

    Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    Rachel Zegler: I feel like I’d have to go the route of Lucy Gray. We were just talking about this earlier, as you do, and I think I would have to win the affections of Panem and then hide and get a lot of sponsors so that I don’t die of hunger, but hide and wait everyone out.

    Hunter Schafer: I’m going to go with camouflage because I have a little experience with paint, so I feel like I can go Peeta on them and be a rock or something.

    Tom Blyth: I think I like in the movies, in the original franchise, when Peeta does the face paint. I like to think I could do that, but I definitely couldn’t, so I probably would rely on my climbing skills because I’m pretty good at climbing. So, I’d probably climb trees.

    Josh Andrés Rivera: I would probably try to make friends with the strong boys and just see how far I can coast under their shoulders before they backstab me eventually. We will worry about that when we get there.

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    What is the plot of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’?

    Years before he would become the tyrannical President of Panem, eighteen-year-old Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) is the last hope for his fading lineage, a once-proud family that has fallen from grace in a post-war Capitol. With the 10th annual Hunger Games fast approaching, the young Snow is alarmed when he is assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler), the female tribute from impoverished District 12. But, after Lucy Gray commands Panem’s attention by defiantly singing during the reaping ceremony, Snow thinks he might be able to turn the odds in their favor. Uniting their instincts for showmanship and newfound political savvy, Snow and Lucy Gray’s race against time to survive will ultimately reveal who is a songbird, and who is a snake.

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’?

    ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’
    ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ will be in theaters on November 17th, 2023.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon

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  • Where To Watch Kenneth Branagh’s ‘A Haunting In Venice’

    Tina Fey as Ariadne Oliver and Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting In Venice.'
    (L to R) Tina Fey as Ariadne Oliver and Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting In Venice.’ Photo by Rob Youngson. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    The third installment in the Agatha Christie movies takes a chilling turn in ‘A Haunting in Venice’. Actor and director Kenneth Branagh returns to helm the film and reprise his role of the famed mustache detective, Hercule Poirot.

    A Murder Mystery Fit For Halloween

    Michelle Yeoh as Mrs. Reynolds in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting in Venice.'
    Michelle Yeoh as Mrs. Reynolds in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting in Venice.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    The movie is based on Christie’s novel ‘Hallowe’en Party’ and will be available on streaming and digital just in time for Halloween. While these murder mystery novels are often accompanied by a sense of suspense and horror, ‘A Haunting In Venice’ leans straight into the horror theme by placing the murder inside a haunted palazzo.

    Releasing on Halloween means the film will just make the Huluween line-up at the end of its celebration. Additionally, ‘A Haunting In Venice’ will also be available to rent or purchase on digital on the same day.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘A Haunting In Venice’

    The Film Switched From Shooting In 70 Millimeter To Digital

    Director Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot and crew on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting In Venice.'
    (L to R) Director Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot and crew on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting In Venice.’ Photo by Rob Youngson. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Branagh teams up once again with cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos (‘Death on the Nile’, ‘The Orient Express’). In an interview with Collider, the British cinematographer expands on why they made the switch from filming on 70 millimeter to digital, “There were a lot of photographic characteristics that we wanted to maintain in the Poirot films. One was a certain kind of clarity, the other is a sense of depth of field.” he explains.

    “One of the things that I think makes the intimacy of the portraiture that we have used on previous Poirot films is that we work at a slightly higher depth of field than most films, T4. Not ‘Citizen Kane‘ levels, but just enough that a face and its features are all in focus. So, we wanted to shoot with a large format lens camera system that was in the highest sensitivity to light, and that was the Sony Venice 2. Those photographic elements were more important than the analog versus digital – that we were able to shoot at low-light levels but with our preferred depth of field. Those were the choices behind shooting this with a digital camera.”

    Where Can I Watch ‘A Haunting In Venice’?

    Kelly Reilly as Rowena Drake in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting In Venice.'
    Kelly Reilly as Rowena Drake in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting In Venice.’ Photo by Rob Youngson. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘A Haunting In Venice’ held its world premiere at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square at the West End London on September 11th. It was released domestically on September 15, 2023, and is still available in theaters if you want to experiment it in standard format or in IMAX. ‘A Haunting In Venice’ has a total runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes.

    Buy Tickets: ‘A Haunting in Venice’ Movie Showtimes

    Watch the official trailers for ‘A Haunting In Venice’ below:

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    The movie will be available on digital on October 31 on major platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube, and Google Play for rent or purchase.

    Where to Watch: ‘A Haunting In Venice’ Online

    Fans of physical media can also look forward to 4K UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD release of the film on November 28.

    Buy ‘A Haunting In Venice’ Movie On Amazon

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    The official synopsis for ‘A Haunting In Venice’ is below:

    Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) has retired from detective work and has moved to Italy to live a quiet life. His peace is interrupted when old friend and novelist Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey) stops by and insists he attends a séance on Halloween in order to expose a psychic named Joyce Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh). However, when a murder occurs, Poirot vows to catch the killer within the haunted palazzo.

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘A Haunting In’?

    Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting in Venice.'
    Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting in Venice.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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  • ‘Wish’ Interview: Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn

    (Left) 'Wish' co-director Chris Buck. (Right) 'Wish' co-director Fawn Veerasunthorn.
    (Left) ‘Wish’ co-director Chris Buck. (Right) ‘Wish’ co-director Fawn Veerasunthorn.

    Disney Animation Studios gears up for its new feature-length animated movie, timed with the studio’s 100th anniversary. ‘Wish’ is helmed by Chris Buck (‘Frozen II’) and Fawn Veerasunthorn (‘Raya and the Last Dragon’). It’s an original fairy tale with an art style inspired by the looks of classic Disney animated movies and the theming of wishing upon a star.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn after a presentation for ‘Wish’ at the El Capitan Theater in Los Angeles. The two directors discussed the inspiration behind the upcoming animated feature, how many Easter Eggs they managed to sneak into the film, the influences for some of the musical numbers, and working with Ariana DeBose.

    Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones, Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck speak for "Wish" at the Long Lead Press Day In-Person Presentation for 'Wish' at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023.
    (L to R) Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones, Peter Del Vecho, SVP, Feature Film Production, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Chris Buck speak for “Wish” at the Long Lead Press Day In-Person Presentation for ‘Wish’ at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California on September 21, 2023. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.

    Moviefone: To begin with, given the title of this film and how much was inspired by the classic Disney message of “When you wish upon a star,” was it always the plan to release this movie timed to the Disney 100th anniversary?

    Chris Buck: Yeah. Jen (Lee) had sort of whispered in my ear. We were in the last year of ‘Frozen 2’. She says, “You know 2023 – is just around the corner, we gotta do something special.” We weren’t sure what yet, and so even though we were still finishing up from ‘Frozen 2,’ we pinned up all these stills from each Disney animated movie. I could see on one bulletin board the breadth of all the different styles and all the different years. Everything that Walt (Disney) and beyond had done, what the company had done. So that’s where it started because it wasn’t just the breadth of everything, but then you can see the connection between the movies, and then you can see characters wishing on stars. So then it just became sort of obvious, it’s like this movie has to be about a wish and it has to be wishing on stars.

    Ariana DeBose as Asha and Alan Tudyk as the pajama-wearing goat, Valentino in “Wish,” which is helmed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn.
    (L to R) Ariana DeBose as Asha and Alan Tudyk as the pajama-wearing goat, Valentino in “Wish,” which is helmed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn. The feature film releases Fall 2023.

    MF: You talked about being inspired by Disney classics like ‘Beauty and the Beast‘ and ‘Pinocchio.’ We definitely saw the inspiration in the film’s artwork. Did you manage to sneak in Easter eggs for all the Disney fans and if so, can you tease any?

    Fawn Veerasunthorn: You’ve seen some today. The big musical number where you may have heard a certain deer’s name (‘Bambi‘) in there. And there might have been some bunny who thumps a lot. I know we started from the ground up with aiming for this to be an original fairy tale, right? Part of celebrating the future, and coming up with something new with a contemporary song. Along the way, we just couldn’t help ourselves – being Disney fans, creating movies for Disney fans – that there are these ideas that come up, and we try to be tasteful about it and not that it’s distracting, but if you love Disney movies, when you go to see this film…

    CB: …You’ll pick up quite a few. There’ll be some fans who pick out ones that maybe we didn’t even consciously do. I mean, it’s already happened. We have a list. It’s a long list.

    Related Article: ‘Once Upon a Studio’ Features 543 Characters From 85 Different Disney Movies

    'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: One of the scenes that we got to see today is where Asha is the tour guide, and she breaks into a musical number and we know that she’s voiced by Ariana DeBose but Asha’s movement matches the way Ariana moves. How was that achieved? Did you capture her dancing in the studio, or was it from purely watching her dance footage?

    VF: For this song, we work with a choreographer from Spain, actually. We talked about Rosas as being a fictional place, but it’s a destination that people come from all over the world, but the main influence is North Africa and Southern Europe. In talking with him, we also wanted to infuse that modern sensibility because with Julian Michael’s writing of these songs, you can’t avoid it. So those aspects came together, and he created the dance reference for us onstage in Spain where we filmed it. Then our animators studied it. We also talked to Ariana about the way she moves and the way she thinks Asha would move and react to those two big factors

    CB: They would also record not only for the dialect sessions but also her musical sessions. So when she is singing and acting, you know, she’s moving, and so our animators are looking at that, getting the cues and all that.

    'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Finally, were there any specific sequences, numbers or characters that were a bit challenging for you in the making of this film?

    CB: They all have their own challenges. Sometimes what you think is going to be a very simple one could be deceiving. I mean, they’re all a challenge, they are all so exciting to play with and to do new things. But I don’t think there’s ever a formula that you say, ‘It’s gonna be easy.”

    VF: They come with their own sets of joy and challenges.

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    What Is The Plot Of ‘Wish’?

    Set in the magical kingdom of Rosas, the story introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), an optimist with a sharp wit who deeply cares about her community. When Asha turns to the sky in a moment of need and makes a wish, her plea is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.

    Who Is In the Cast of ‘Wish’?

    'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Wish:’

    Buy Tickets: ‘Wish’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Disney Animated Movies on Amazon

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  • ‘Blue Eye Samurai’ Interview: Amber Noizumi and Michael Green

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    Netflix’s latest adult animation series ‘Blue Eye Samurai’ arrives on the streaming service beginning November 3 and was created by Amber Noizumi and Michael Green (‘Logan’, ‘Blade Runner 2049’).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with showrunners Amber Noizumi and Michael Green about the inspiration behind the upcoming animated series, casting Maya Erskine as the lead character Mizu, the influences from various samurai films and shows, and how the process of approaching their first animated project.

    'Blue Eye Samurai's Amber Noizumi and Michael Green.
    (L to R) ‘Blue Eye Samurai’s Amber Noizumi and Michael Green.

    You can read our full interview below or click on the video player above to watch the interview. 

    Moviefone: To begin with, how did this story come together, and what was it about the Eddo period that made you want to focus on it specifically?

    Amber Noizumi: So the Eddo period is heralded as Japan’s golden age. I mean, to this day, they call it the golden age of Japan. That was when their borders were closed, completely closed off to the outside world, where it was its most homogenous. The idea to have somebody who’s mixed race, as I am, and we have a daughter who was born with blue eyes, and we called her our Blue Eye Samurai, which was the start of our conversations about it. What would it have been like to be different, to look different, to be a different race during that time? So ultimately, that was the beginning of it, and it just, with our research, our ideas got richer from there.

    Maya Erskine as Mizu in 'Blue Eye Samurai.'
    Maya Erskine as Mizu in ‘Blue Eye Samurai.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2023.

    MF: Speaking of the blue eyes, the main character’s name is Mizu, which means water in Japanese. Was that the inspiration for naming the character,  based on the color and the meaning of water?

    AN: Yes, but also the idea of water, the idea of its various forms of steam, and ice, and sublimation, and then fire, when she’s sword making, and the fire that’s within her. We just used a lot of that element. Those elemental things to describe what’s going on in her and around her.

    MF: With a show focused on a samurai, were there any samurai films or shows that inspired certain scenes or fighting styles?

    Michael Green: We work with so many wonderful people, all of whom have encyclopedic knowledge. So it was so much fun, everyone bringing their favorite clips, and we would watch them. I’m going to say where I’m going to get to, is we ended up working with Sunny Sun, a fight choreographer who’s one of the greatest stunt choreographers in the world. So it’s really his movies that I want to talk about. He came at this with so much character focus. Jane Wu, our supervising director, also comes from with martial arts background. I mean, we talked about everything from ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ with the tension of scenes, or ‘Once Upon Time in the West,’ same thing. But in Eastern Films, we talked about the way Zatoichi moves and how he always moves differently from everyone around him. Of course, we looked at Kurosawa‘s compositions.

    AN: And then we have a song lifted directly from ‘Kill Bill’. There’s so much greatness to steal from.

    MG: We wear our homages on our sleeve and hope the originators notice and go, “Oh yeah.”

    Masi Oka as Ringo and Maya Erskine as Mizu in 'Blue Eye Samurai.'
    (L to R) Masi Oka as Ringo and Maya Erskine as Mizu in ‘Blue Eye Samurai.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2023.

    MF:  Mizu is voiced by Maya Erskine, who audiences know from ‘PEN15’. What has it been like to watch her bring the character of Mizu to life, and how did you know that you found the right actor in Maya?

    AN: Maya is such a talented, versatile actor, and you could see in ‘PEN15,’ even though it is a hilarious show, you could see how she brought that kind of raw pain of growing up mixed race and just growing up in general. I actually think that that’s how the character of Maya might envision herself. She might envision herself like Mizu. This might be who she aspires to be. But Maya really was able to bring a lot of that pain into the character of Mizu. I mean, she just did it beyond our expectations.

    Related Article: Director Marc Jobst Talks ‘One Piece’ and His Work On Netflix’s Marvel Projects

    Maya Erskine as Mizu in 'Blue Eye Samurai.'
    (L to R) Maya Erskine as Mizu in ‘Blue Eye Samurai.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2023.

    MF: Finally, the series is the first major animated project you’ve worked on as showrunners, what was the process like? Has it been different than your past projects, and did you approach it differently?

    MG: We approached it the same, which might’ve been naive, but that’s good because it ended up working out.

    AN: We would’ve been scared away otherwise.

    MG: If we knew exactly how hard it was going to be. Some of the ways were very similar. We wrote the script as if it was a live-action piece. We ran our meetings, and mixed it and scored it, and worked with the type of people, with casting directors and costume designers from live action. Suttirat Larlarb did our costumes, worked with her on ‘American Gods’. She’s done everything from Star Wars to Bond, and on and on. Our casting directors work on ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Avatar’. We really just worked with as many live-action people, including Jane Wu, our supervising director and executive producer. But then we met the reality of animation, where we knew we had to learn a lot, where we had to work with people who knew it much better than we ever could, and could teach us and be patient with us, and also just lead us through it. So it was very different. The main difference is how slow animation is. It is for the patient. It’s just the dough needs to rise and you can’t rush it. But you can have anything you want if you’re patient. So it made the show everything we wanted and more.

    Maya Erskine as Mizu in 'Blue Eye Samurai.'
    (L to R) Maya Erskine as Mizu in ‘Blue Eye Samurai.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2023.

    What Is The Plot Of ‘Blue Eye Samurai?

    Set in 17th-century Edo-period Japan, Blue Eye Samurai follows Mizu (Maya Erskine), a mixed-race master of the sword who lives a life in disguise seeking to deliver revenge. In her search for vengeance, she meets Ringo, a soba maker born who longs to be a samurai, Taigen, a pompous samurai, and Princess Akemi, the daughter of Lord Daichi of the Tokunobu clan.

    Who Is In the Cast of ‘Blue Eye Samurai’?

    A scene from 'Blue Eye Samurai.'
    A scene from ‘Blue Eye Samurai.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2023.

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  • Where To Watch Antoine Fuqua’s ‘The Equalizer 3’

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer‘ started out as a 1980s TV series by Michael Sload and Richard Lindhelm. Later, director Antoine Fuqua would adapt the series into a movie, with Denzel Washington starring as Robert McCall.

    The last time we saw Robert McCall was in ‘The Equalizer 2,’ facing off against former DIA colleagues Dave York (Pedro Pascal), Kovak, Ari, and Resnik in the midst of a hurricane. McCall realized that he could have walked down the same path of crime but instead chose forgiveness. In the most recent film, Robert McCall has moved to Southern Italy in an attempt to leave his past behind.

    Where Can I Watch ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ was released domestically on September 1, 2023, and is available in standard formats as well as in IMAX. Currently, the movie is still playing in theaters if you want a chance to experience it on the big screen. ‘The Equalizer 3’ has a total runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Equalizer 3’ Movie Showtimes

    Watch the official trailer for ‘The Equalizer 3’ below:

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    The movie was released on digital on October 6 and is available for purchase for $24.99 or rent for $19.99 on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube, and Google Play. No date has been released as to when the movie will arrive on streaming.

    Where to Watch: ‘The Equalizer 3’ Online

    Fans can also look forward to 4K UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD release for the film. While no dates have been announced for the Blu-Ray/DVD release, retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon have the movie listed for pre-order. There will be a steelbook edition as a Best Buy exclusive. Bonus features for the physical release include:

    • Blood Brothers – The collaboration of Denzel Washington and Antoine Fuqua.
    • Call To Action
    • Robert McCall: A Man of the People
    • Denzel and Dakota: A Reunion
    • Postcards From The Amalfi Coast
    • Jacob Banks “Monster” Lyric Video

    Buy ‘The Equalizer 3’ On Amazon

    Watch The First 10 Minutes Of The Film

    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo by: Stefano Montesi.

    Although the movie was just released on September 1st, it is already available on digital. Timed with the digital release, the first ten minutes of the film is available for free on IGN’s website. Opening on a Sicilian vineyard, where McCall has already left a path of dead henchmen along the path of the driveway and inside the building. As Lorenzo Vitale ventures inside, he finds Robert sitting calmly on a chair at gunpoint.

    “You took something that didn’t belong to you, I’m here to take it back,” McCall says before he hops into action, effortlessly taking down everyone in the room. Critics and audiences reacted positively to the film, garnering it a 75% critics score and a 94% audience score.

    Related Article: Denzel Washington Triumphantly Returns as Robert McCall in ‘The Equalizer 3’

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ official synopsis:

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    “Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he’s done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.”

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.
    Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Cristiiano Montesi.

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    To watch our exclusive interview with Antoine Fuqua, as well as interviews with Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning about ‘The Equalizer 3,’ please click on the video player below.

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  • Where To Watch DC Studios’ ‘Blue Beetle’

    Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure Blue Beetle,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure Blue Beetle,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Hopper Stone/SMPSP/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

    The latest movie from the DC cinematic universe showcases Jaime Reyes as he gains incredible superhero powers from an ancient alien tech known as The Scarab.

    Blue Beetle was first introduced in comic books in 1939 and has since made appearances in animated shows such as ‘Young Justice’, and live-action TV series such as ‘Smallville’. The film marks the Latino superhero’s first entry into the DCU, where it focuses on the origin of his power and the introduction of Kord Industries.

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    Aside from great action sequences, the film also highlights Jaime’s family. Their close-knit relationship shows that not all superheroes need to go it alone. The Reyes family was always a part of the character’s story, and showcasing this in the movie adds an extra layer of emotion and heart.

    The official synopsis for ‘Blue Beetle‘ is below:

    “Recent college grad Jaime Reyes returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it. As he searches to find his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab. When the Scarab suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the superhero Blue Beetle.”

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘Blue Beetle’?

    Elpida Carrillo as Rocio, George Lopez as Uncle Rudy, Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes, Melissa Escobedo as Milagro and Damian Alcazar as Alberto in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure 'Blue Beetle,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Elpida Carrillo as Rocio, George Lopez as Uncle Rudy, Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes, Melissa Escobedo as Milagro and Damian Alcazar as Alberto in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure ‘Blue Beetle,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Hopper Stone/SMPSP/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

    ‘Blue Beetle’ Was Initially Set For Streaming

    Xolo Mariduena as Blue Beetle on the set of Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure 'Blue Beetle,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (Left) Xolo Mariduena as Blue Beetle on the set of Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure ‘Blue Beetle,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Hopper Stone/SMPSP/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Originally, the movie was not intended for a theatrical release. ‘Blue Beetle’ was set to hit streaming service Max (formerly HBO Max), but during development, the studio decided to give the film a theatrical run. Filmed for IMAX, audiences are able to be immersed in the story and action scenes of Blue Beetle.

    Related Article: ‘Blue Beetle’ Showcases The Journey Of A Young Superhero And His Family

    Will Blue Beetle Be In Future DCU Films?

    (Left) Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure Blue Beetle,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Hopper Stone/SMPSP/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. (Center) Viola Davis as Amanda Waller in 2016's 'Suicide Squad.' (Right) John Cena in HBO Max's 'Peacemaker.'
    (Left) Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure Blue Beetle,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Hopper Stone/SMPSP/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. (Center) Viola Davis as Amanda Waller in 2016’s ‘Suicide Squad.’ (Right) John Cena in HBO Max’s ‘Peacemaker.’

    As the newest superhero in the DCU line-up since James Gunn and Peter Safran took over as co-CEO, fans wonder if Blue Beetle will return in future projects. James Gunn took to his Instagram account with a photo from the screening to confirm that Jaime Reyes will remain in the DCU, “I can’t wait for audiences to meet Jaime Reyes, who will be an amazing part of the DCU going forward!”

    Currently, there’s no word on whether a ‘Blue Beetle’ sequel is in development. However, this doesn’t mean Maridueña won’t show up in upcoming DC projects. Gunn has also confirmed that John Cena and Viola Davis will continue to have a presence in the DCU as their characters, Peacemaker and Amanda Waller.

    Where Can I Watch ‘Blue Beetle’?

    Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure 'Blue Beetle,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure ‘Blue Beetle,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures/™ & © DC Comics. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

    ‘Blue Beetle’ was released domestically on August 18, 2023. Currently, the movie is still playing in theaters, and if you want a chance to experience it on the big screen, AMC Theaters has the movie available for $5 as a part of its Fave Faves deal. ‘Blue Beetle’ has a total runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes

    Buy Tickets: ‘Blue Beetle’ Movie Showtimes

    Watch the official trailers for ‘Blue Beetler’ below:

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    The movie was released on digital on September 26 and is available for purchase for $24.99 or rent for $19.99 on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube, and Google Play. The movie has yet to arrive on streaming, but once it meets its 90 to 120-day window, it should arrive on Max.

    Where to Watch: ‘Blue Beetle’ Online

    Fans can look forward to 4K UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD release on October 31, 2023. There will be a steelbook edition as a Best Buy exclusive. Bonus features for the physical release include:

    • Generations: Blue Beetle” – 4-part documentary
      Told in distinct chapters, explore the journeys of actors and filmmakers bringing “Blue Beetle” to the big screen for the first time ever. Audiences will be immersed in the POV of filmmakers who showcase their experiences on set and in their creative studios making the story of this DC character a reality.
    • Nana Knows Best – featurette
      Witness Nana’s transformation from an adorable ‘abuelita’ into a machine gun-wielding revolutionary, and stop in for a few of her most fun moments on set throughout production.
    • Scarab Vision – 2-part featurette
      Xolo Maridueña hosts this series of scene study walk throughs that showcases how the scarab works and the role it plays in some of Blue Beetle’s most epic moments.

    Buy ‘Blue Beetle’ On Amazon

    'Blue Beetle' is scheduled to be released in the United States on August 18, 2023.
    ‘Blue Beetle’ is scheduled to be released in the United States on August 18, 2023.

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