Moviefone Editorial

Tag: gerard-butler

  • ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’ Director and Producer Interview

    (L to R) Producer Tucker Tooley and writer and director Christian Gudegast for 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'.
    (L to R) Producer Tucker Tooley and writer and director Christian Gudegast for ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’.

    ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’, which is the sequel to 2018’s action classic ‘Den of Thieves’, is once again written and directed by Christian Gudegast and opens in theaters on January 10th.

    The movie features Gerard Butler (‘Law Abiding Citizen’) and O’Shea Jackson Jr. (‘Straight Outta Compton’) reprising their roles as Big Nick and Donnie, respectively, but also includes new cast members Evin Ahmed (‘Girls of the Sun’), Michael Bisping (‘XXX: Return of Xander Cage’), and Salvatore Esposito (‘Fargo’).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with writer and director Christian Gudegast and producer Tucker Tooley to talk about their work on ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’, crafting the idea for the sequel, moving the action to Europe, the action sequences, Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr.’s chemistry together, and how the characters have changed since the first film.

    Related Article: Gerard Butler and Mike Colter Talk New Action-Adventure Thriller ‘Plane’

    Gerard Butler as 'Big Nick' O'Brien in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.
    Gerard Butler as ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.

    Moviefone: To begin with, Christian, at what point during the making of the first film did you realize that you had something special on your hands and when did you start thinking about ideas for a sequel?

    Christian Gudegast: From the very beginning. So, from the research of the first one, Tucker and I worked together from the very beginning, and we saw that we had so much material, almost like enough material for a long form series that we couldn’t possibly put it on the first one. So, we knew that we wanted to go to different parts of the world to examine and dive into different heists because a great heist is just endlessly fascinating. So, we knew that we wanted something to be repeatable around the world.

    O'Shea Jackson Jr as Donnie Wilson in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.
    O’Shea Jackson Jr as Donnie Wilson in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.

    MF: Tucker, from a production standpoint, can you talk about taking the story out of Los Angeles, placing it in Europe and what that adds to the tone of the movie?

    Tucker Tooley: Well, look, the first intention was, let’s open it up. The first one was very focused in the Federal Reserve and in and around Los Angeles. We wanted it to be more of an international experience. So, we scouted several different locations. We were all set to shoot in one place, and then the tax credit fell through, so we had to move to another place. But where we ended up in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands was phenomenal. It was easy to double different places in Europe on the island of Tenerife, and we also shot in the South of France. But that island is incredibly unique because you have multiple different feels and vibes. One side of the island is dry, the other side is tropical. You have the place that literally looks like Nice. So, it was a perfect spot for us, and they have a great tax credit. So that was important.

    Gerard Butler as 'Big Nick' O'Brien in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.
    Gerard Butler as ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.

    MF: Christian, the Benihana sequence in ‘Den of Thieves’ is one of the most iconic scenes from the first movie. Is there a scene, set piece or action sequence in the sequel that you are really excited for fans to watch?

    CG: Aside from the action, I would say in the middle of the film, the nightclub and shawarma sequence, that’s that version thereof. All that’s just based on personal experience and thinking as you’re living your life, “I feel like I’m living in a movie right now. This should be a scene in movie one day” and then it is. So yeah, it’s really that sequence, which is that version thereof in ‘Den 2’.

    (L to R) O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson and Gerard Butler as 'Big Nick' O'Brien in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres.
    (L to R) O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson and Gerard Butler as ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres.

    MF: Tucker, can you talk about the chemistry that Gerard and O’Shea have on screen together playing these characters and what they bring to these roles?

    TT: We think they have incredible chemistry in the movie. In the first movie, they were separate the whole time. We separated the bad guys and the good guys. So, we saw some of that off camera in the first one. Certainly, in the scenes where they were opposite each other. There was a vibe there. When Big Nick is beating up Donnie in that room, there was a lot of tension there. So, when we started designing this one, it became apparent quickly when we were on set, certainly, but even in the writing of it with Christian writing it, that this was going to be much more of a buddy movie, and both just rose to the occasion. Big Nick is perfect for that role. No one can do that role better. That was a huge thing for us in the first movie. Then Donnie gets to evolve into a tough guy. In the first one, he’s sort of a kid. But in this one, he has evolved.

    O'Shea Jackson Jr as Donnie Wilson in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.
    O’Shea Jackson Jr as Donnie Wilson in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres for Lionsgate.

    MF: Finally, Christian, in the first film, Donnie is really pretending to be someone else through most of the movie. Now that Big Nick and the audience know who Donnie really is, what was it like writing for that character this time around?

    CG: Well, it was everything for O’Shea too, he really wanted to lean into “who I really am” and not have to play this, “I’m a bulls**t artist”. You know what I mean? He becomes, as Tucker said a grown man. So, it’s a completely different dynamic and one that then, it’s going to be tougher for Nick to bounce off that. He doesn’t get pushed around anymore. So now you have more natural rivalries. But at the same time, I think they learn to love each other. They’re like, “I like this dude.” It becomes a bromance. It’s like when you travel around the world and you go somewhere strange and different, and suddenly you recognize someone from home, even though he’s not your boy. It’s a weird Kumbaya that develops. So, we had a lot of fun with that.

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    What is the plot of ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’?

    Immediately following the events of ‘Den of Thieves’, sheriff “Big Nick” O’Brien (Gerard Butler) is tracking down Donnie Wilson (O’Shea Jackson Jr.), who escaped to Europe and is planning another heist.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’?

    • Gerard Butler as Nicholas “Big Nick” O’Brien
    • O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson
    • Evin Ahmad as Jovanna
    • Jordan Bridges as Lobbin Bob
    • Salvatore Esposito as Slavko
    • Meadow Williams as Holly
    • Michael Bisping as Connor
    • Orli Shuka as Dushko
    • Nazmiye Oral as Chava
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as 'Big Nick' O'Brien and O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson in 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera'. Photo Credit: Rico Torres.
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien and O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’. Photo Credit: Rico Torres.

    Other Gerard Butler Action Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy ‘Den of Thieves’ On Amazon

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  • Gerard Butler Returning for Live-Action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’

    Presenter Gerard Butler arrives at the 82nd Annual Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, CA, on Sunday, March 7, 2010.
    Presenter Gerard Butler arrives at the 82nd Annual Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, CA, on Sunday, March 7, 2010. Credit/Provider: Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

    Preview:

    • Gerard Butler is back as Stoic for a new ‘How to Train Your Dragon’.
    • Mason Thames and Nico Parker are set to star as Hiccup and Astrid.
    • Regular Director Dean DeBlois is returning to oversee the movie.

    While DreamWorks and Universal have so far plumped for new faces in its live-action conversion of the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ animated franchise, it appears that to play broad, noble Viking chief Stoic the Vast there’s no substituting the person who has played him in the three main movies (and one spin-off TV movie).

    Gerard Butler, who brought such character to the role, will be donning Stoic’s trademark hair and armor to bring him to shouty life in reality (or as close as you can get in a movie that’ll be full of CG dragons).

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    What’s the story of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’?

    Hiccup and Toothless from 'How to Train Your Dragon.'
    Hiccup and Toothless from ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’

    Adapted from Cressida Cowell’s novel series, which saw its first book hit shelves in 2003, the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ movies focused on the special friendship between a young and unheroic Viking boy named Hiccup and Toothless, an injured dragon he nurses back to health.

    Set in a Viking island-based village called Berk, the story is set in a world where humans see dragons as a problem––either a sheep-stealing nuisance or deadly threat, depending on the type of beast. We followed Hiccup and Toothless’ quest to combat humanity’s prejudice against dragons, the ache of overcoming the loss of a parent, and first love. And uniquely, the films did so by consistently aging the protagonists commensurately with the story, becoming a true coming-of-age story.

    ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ first took to the cine-skies in 2010 with the successful first outing, which was followed in 2014 by ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2’ and in 2019 with the final film in the trilogy (at least so far) ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’.

    Jay Baruchel voiced Hiccup, with the supporting characters of the Viking boy’s friends, including Jonah Hill as Snotlout, Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Fishlegs, T.J. Miller as Tuffnut and Kristen Wiig as Ruffnut.

    Related Article: Mason Thames and Nico Parker Cast in Live-Action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Movie

    Who is in the live-action version of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’?

    Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast in 'How to Train Your Dragon.'
    Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast in ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’ Photo: Paramount Pictures.

    So far, returning filmmaker Dean DeBlois, who handled all three of the theatrical movies (and is back to write, direct and produce this one), has cast fresh faces to play the main characters.

    Mason Thames, who appeared in ‘The Black Phone’ (and is returning for the sequel) will be Hiccup, while Nico Parker (of the live-action ‘Dumbo’ and more recently TV’s ‘The Last of Us’) is Astrid.

    It remains to be seen whether Deblois taps any of the other voice actors to reprise their roles, though given many were older actors playing teens, it seems doubtful.

    When will the new ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ be in theaters?

    The movie is currently scheduled to flap on to screens on June 13th, 2025.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘How to Train Your Dragon:’

    Buy ‘How to Train your Dragon’ Movies On Amazon

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  • ‘In The Hand of Dante’ Find Its Leading Actors

    (Left) Oscar Isaac in 'Big Gold Brick.' (Center) Jason Momoa as Dante in 'Fast X.' (Right) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    (Left) Oscar Isaac in ‘Big Gold Brick.’ (Center) Jason Momoa as Dante in ‘Fast X’, directed by Louis Leterrier. (Right) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Preview

    • ‘In The Hand Of Dante’ secures an Interim Agreement from SAG-AFTRA, allowing the production to begin in Italy
    • The crime thriller will be led by Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, and Gerard Butler
    • The movie is an adaptation of the novel by Nick Tosche, with actor Johnny Depp purchasing the rights through his production company Infinitum Nihil in 2008.

    The book-to-film adaptation ‘In The Hand Of Dante’ finds its leading stars in Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, and Gerard Butler. According to Deadline, the production is set to film in Venice, Italy, and has recently secured an Interim Agreement from SAG-AFTRA.

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    What Is ‘In The Hand Of Dante’ About?

    Oscar Isaac as Marc Spector
    Oscar Isaac as Marc Spector in Marvel Studios’ ‘Moon Knight,’ exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Gabor Kotschy. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.

    The book tells two separate tales, with Dante Alighieri in 14th Century Italy and a fictional version of Nick Tosches in 2001. The two stories alternate between Dante and Tosche. One is trying to finish his magnum opus, while the other is called to authenticate a manuscript of The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri but ends up stealing it.

    The book also touches on modern publishing, including Tosches’ own writing, the 9/11 attacks, and the Rolling Stones.

    Related Article: 25 Best Gerard Butler Movies of All-Time!

    The Leading Actors

    Gerard Butler in 2009's 'Law Abiding Citizen.'
    Gerard Butler in 2009’s ‘Law Abiding Citizen.’

    The star-studded cast for the crime thriller includes Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, and Gerard Butler. All names associated with mega franchises such as ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Aquaman,’ and ‘Olympus Has Fallen.’ While the actors have been on strike since July 14, the production has landed an interim agreement with SAG-AFTRA, allowing the actors to film in Italy.

    The trio of actors possesses quite a resume. Oscar Isaac has been in blockbuster hits such as ‘Dune,’ ‘Spider-man: Across the Spider-Verse’, ‘Moon Knight’, ‘Ex Machina’, and more. Jason Momoa recently joined the ‘Fast & Furious‘ franchise as villain Dante (not to be confused with ‘In The Hand Of Dante’) in ‘Fast X’, and can be seen in the upcoming ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Gerard Butler is known for his role as Leonidas in Frank Miller’s ‘300’, as well as the leading man in the ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ franchise. His next film will be ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’.

    Actor Johnny Depp purchased the rights to Nick Tosches’ book in 2008 through his production company, Infinitum Nihil. Originally, Oscar-nominated director Julian Schnabel planned to work with Depp on the film, with the actor playing the role of Tosches. However, the director revealed last month that Oscar Isaac has been cast in the leading role.

    Visionary Director Martin Scorsese To Executive Produce

    Director Martin Scorsese at the Academy Awards.
    Director Martin Scorsese at the Academy Awards.

    The crime thriller will be executive produced by none other than Martin Scorsese (‘Killers of the Flower Moon’), along with DreamCrew, Screen Capital/Screen One, and Tribune Pictures. Jon Killik, Francesco Melzi d’eril for MeMo Films, and Olmo Schnabel for TWIN Productions will also produce.

    Jason Momoa in 'Superpowered: The DC Story.'
    Jason Momoa in ‘Superpowered: The DC Story.’ Photograph by Courtesy of Max/Warner Bros.

    Movies Starring Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa or Gerard Butler:

    Buy Oscar Isaac Movies on Amazon

    Buy Jason Momoa Movies on Amazon

    Buy Gerard Butler Movies on Amazon

     

    To watch our exclusive interview with Gerard Butler and Mike Colter for ‘Plane,’ please click on the video player below.

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  • Where To Watch The Action Thriller ‘Plane’

    Daniella Pineda as Bonnie Lane, Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance, and Yoson An as Samuel Dele in 'Plane.'
    (L to R) Daniella Pineda as Bonnie Lane, Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance, and Yoson An as Samuel Dele in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Talk about a movie that’ll make you think twice before booking your next flight.

    ‘Plane’ is the latest action-thriller that is plenty of fun with elements of ‘Con Air’, ‘Speed’, and ‘The Grey’. Packed with passengers trying to get home in time to ring in the New Year, the weather takes a turn for the worse and pilot Brodie Torance is forced to makes an emergency landing on a remote island. The passengers are safe from the deadly storm and lightning strikes, but the island they have just landed on is filled with more danger than they realize.

    The film is directed by Jean-François Richet (‘Assault on Precinct 13‘) and stars Gerard Butler (‘Greenland‘) as commercial pilot Brodie Torrance, and Mike Colter (‘South Of Heaven‘) as accused murderer Louise Gaspare. As the movie tagline says “survive together or die along”, the two must learn to work together to survive the violent rebel group on the island.

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    The official synopsis for ‘Plane’ is:

    “In the white-knuckle action movie “Plane,” pilot Brodie Torrance (Gerard Butler) saves his passengers from a lightning strike by making a risky landing on a war-torn island — only to find that surviving the landing was just the beginning. When most of the passengers are taken hostage by dangerous rebels, the only person Torrance can count on for help is Louis Gaspare (Mike Colter), an accused murderer who was being transported by the FBI. In order to rescue the passengers, Torrance will need Gaspare’s help, and will learn there’s more to Gaspare than meets the eye.”

    Butler is no stranger to action-packed movies such as ‘Plane’. From his portrayal as King Leonidas in ‘300’ to the ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ trilogies, you know you’re going to have a good time in the theater with him in the lead. Mike Colter is known for his role as the title character in Netflix’s hit Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’, and like Butler, is no stranger to action. With him playing opposite Butler, the pair creates an dynamic relationship that is worth watching.

    The film also stars Yoson An (‘Mulan‘), Tony Goldwyn (‘People We Hate At The Wedding‘), Paul Ben-Victor (‘Emancipation‘), Evan Dane Taylor (‘Castle Falls‘), and Danelle Pineda (‘Cowboy Bebop’).

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in 'Plane.'
    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Mike Colter To Return In ‘Plane’ Sequel

    ‘Plane’ opened on January 13, 2023 and has earned $32.1 million domestically. Worldwide, it has grossed just over $51 million. It has a Tomatoe-meter score of 77% from critics and 94% from audiences.

    Clearly, the masses enjoyed the film and for those craving for more ‘Plane’ action, you’re in luck. Taking a nautical turn, Mike Colter will return to lead the sequel, titled ‘Ship’. The next installment will follow Mike Colter’s character Louise Gaspare, after he has disappeared into the jungles of Jolo Island. ‘Ship’ is expected to begin production in late 2023. Jean-François Richet will return as executive producer. No word yet if Gerarld Butler will be returning to the film to reprise his role.

    Here’s what we know about the sequel so far – but be warned, if you haven’t seen ‘Plane’, there are spoilers ahead!

    ‘Ship’ will see Louis Gaspare (trying to lay low after the events on Jolo Island) aboard a cargo ship in East Asia to escape the Philippine island. While onboard, he discovers the very vessel he is on is being used as a ferry for a human trafficking ring. Gaspare will need to join forces with the ship’s second mate/navigator to take down the corrupt captain and free the ship’s passengers and captives.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in "Plane.' Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in “Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Where Can I Watch ‘Plane’?

    For those who prefer to see the action on the big screen, the action-thriller is still playing in select theaters. ‘Plane’ has a total runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes.

    Buy Tickets: ‘Plane’ Movie Showtimes

    Watch the official trailer for ‘Plane’ below:

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    When Will It Be Available To Stream Online?

    We get it, you want to see the action from the comfort of your couch. ‘Plane’ is now available to rent On Demand for $19.99.

    Where To Watch: ‘Plane’ Online

    Prefer the own the physical copy? ‘Plane’ will be available for purchase on DVD and Blu-Ray (with special features) on March 28th, 2023.

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    (L to R) Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    More Action-Thriller Films Like ‘Plane’

    ‘Plane’ packs a punch, complete with nail-biting suspense, and huge action sequences. Paired with the unlikely partnership between Captain Brodie Torrance and Louise Gaspare, it makes it a very entertaining watch. For more high-octane action, check out the following films.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    See Gerard Butler In Action In These Titles

    Whether he’s spartan kicking the messenger into the dark pit in ‘300’ or saving the President in ‘Olympus Has Fallen’, Gerard Butler has proven he is the man for the job. You can check out the following films to see him in action.

    Gerard Butler and Mike Colter star in "Plane.'
    (L to R) Gerard Butler and Mike Colter star in “Plane.’

    ‘Plane’ was released in theaters on January 13th, 2022 from Di Bonaventura Pictures, MadRiver Pictures, G-BASE, and Olive Hill Media. Directed by Jean-François Richet, and written by Charles Cumming and J. P. Davis, the film stars Gerard Butler, Mike Colter, Tony Goldwyn, Paul Ben-Victor, Yonson An, and Daniella Pineda.

    Watch Moviefone’s ‘Plane’ interviews with Gerard Butler and Mike Colter below:

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  • DreamWorks Plans ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Live Action Movie

    Hiccup and Toothless from 'How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.'
    Hiccup and Toothless from ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.’

    Disney had been getting a lot of mileage out of turning its animated classic canon into live-action (and usually live-action/CG mixes) with the likes of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘The Lion King’ and this year’s ‘The Little Mermaid’, it was perhaps only a matter of time before other studios decided to give it a try.

    The first to step up are Universal and DreamWorks Animation, who have started work on a live-action adaptation of the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ stories.

    ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ first took to the cine-skies in 2010 with the successful first outing, which was followed in 2014 by ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2’ and in 2019 with the final film in the trilogy (at least so far) ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’.

    Dean DeBlois, who wrote all three films, co-directed the first with Chris Sanders and took on the other two alone, is aboard to write, direct and produce this new film, where he’ll face the unenviable task of bringing central dragon Toothless to life in live-action, and somehow making him as charming as the beloved animated version.

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    What’s the story of ‘How to Train Your Dragon?

    Adapted from Cressida Cowell’s novel series, which saw its first book hit shelves in 2003, the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ movies focused on the special friendship between a young and unheroic Viking boy named Hiccup and Toothless, an injured dragon he nurses back to health.

    Set in a Viking island-based village called Berk, the story is set in a world where humans see dragons as a problem––either a sheep-stealing nuisance or deadly threat, depending on the type of beast. We followed Hiccup and Toothless’ quest to combat humanity’s prejudice against dragons, the ache of overcoming the loss of a parent, and first love. And uniquely, the films did so by consistently aging the protagonists commensurately with the story, becoming a true coming-of-age story.

    Jay Baruchel voiced Hiccup, with the supporting characters of the Viking boy’s friends, including Jonah Hill as Snotlout, Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Fishlegs, T.J. Miller as Tuffnut and Kristen Wiig as Ruffnut.

    Aside from the core group, the movies also featured the voices of Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Cate Blanchett, Kit Harington and more.

    Hiccup and Toothless from 'How to Train Your Dragon.'
    Hiccup and Toothless from ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’

    Related Article: ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’ Director Dean DeBlois on His Own Epic Journey

    What else is there to the franchise?

    The ‘Dragon’ movies have been successful enough to spawn a wealth of merchandise (including a Build-A-Bear Toothless tie-in, clothes, games, toys and more).

    And it has also generated several TV spin-offs featuring other dragon riders, which have screened on Cartoon Network, Netflix and Hulu.

    Universal clearly believes this is a franchise that can make the leap, and has already planted a flag in March 14th, 2025 for the movie’s theatrical release.

    2014's 'How to Train Your Dragon 2.'
    2014’s ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2.’

    Other Movies Similar to ‘How to Train Your Dragon:’

    Buy ‘How to Train your Dragon’ Movies On Amazon

  • Gerard Butler Thriller ‘Plane’ Spawns ‘Ship’ Sequel

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in 'Plane.'
    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    There’s simplicity in storytelling and then there’s the quick, easy-to-understand but also easy-to-joke-about nature of this year’s Gerard Butler-starring action thriller ‘Plane’.

    The internet naturally had a lot of fun when ‘Plane’ was announced, becoming the latest movie in which Butler has trouble in the air (or, in this case, the real trouble started when the plane crashed).

    ‘Plane’, which landed in theaters last month starred Butler alongside Mike Colter, Tony Goldwyn, Daniella Pineda, Lilly Krug and Paul Ben-Victor.

    Jean-François Richet called the shots, working from a script by writers Charles Cumming and J.P. Davis. With a $25 million budget, the indie release has so far earned more than $43 million worldwide. So of course, a sequel is now on the way. The title this time? ‘Ship’!

    According to Variety, ‘Ship’ will pick up where the original left off but focus on Colter’s character.

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    What was the story of ‘Plane’?

    For those who have yet to sample the testosterone-driven delights of ‘Plane’, here’s a basic briefing.

    Pilot Brodie Torrance (Butler) saves his passengers on Trailblazer Flight 119 from a lightning strike by making a risky landing on a war-torn island––only to find that surviving the landing was just the beginning.

    When most of the passengers are taken hostage by dangerous rebels, the only person Torrance can count on for help is Louis Gaspare (Colter), an accused murderer who was being transported by the FBI. In order to rescue the passengers, Torrance will need Gaspare’s help, and will learn there’s more to Gaspare than meets the eye…

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    (L to R) Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Plane’

    What will ‘Ship’ be about?

    It might not have either writers or a director officially aboard yet, but ‘Ship’ has a concept…

    Following a high-octane showdown with the local militia on Jolo’s shores, Gaspare manages to commandeer a fishing boat and escape the Philippines. But he’s not out of the woods yet: the media circus surrounding Flight 119 has elevated his public profile, making him the subject of an international manhunt.

    Hoping to stay under the radar and get far away from his last known location, Gaspare hops aboard a cargo ship in East Asia that’s bound for South Africa. But as he settles in for a long voyage, the stowaway discovers that the ocean vessel is transporting more than goods—it’s also being used as a ferry for a human trafficking ring.

    A strong moral code won’t allow Gaspare to simply stand by, so he once again puts his own freedom on hold. Together with the ship’s second mate, a last-minute addition to the crew who was unaware of its illicit activities, and a passenger with military experience and a bone to pick, Gaspare embarks on a mission to take down the ship’s corrupt captain, keep its innocent passengers safe, and liberate its captives.

    The big question is whether Butler’s pilot character who––spoiler alert––also survives the first movie will show up to help out.

    We can’t help but think the producers missed a trick not calling this next film ‘Train’, with ‘Automobile’ waiting in the wings, but we suppose that a train wasn’t the best mode of transport off the island…

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in "Plane.' Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in “Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
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    Other Movies Similar to ‘Plane:’

    Buy Tickets: ‘Plane’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy ‘Plane’ On Amazon

    ‘Plane’ was written by Charles Cumming and J.P. Davis, directed by Jean-Francois Richet, and stars Gerard Butler, Mike Colter and Tony Goldwyn. The movie was produced by Di Bonaventura Pictures, G-BASE, and Lionsgate, and was released in theaters on January 13th, 2023.

     

  • Movie Review: ‘Plane’

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    (L to R) Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare and Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    ‘Plane,’ the new action-thriller from director Jean-François Richet (‘Assault on Precinct 13’), is scheduled to crash-land into theaters on January 13th.

    Gerard Butler stars as commercial pilot Brodie Torrance, who is traveling on New Year’s Eve with a plane full of passengers, including FBI transport and accused murderer Louis Gaspare (Mike Colter).

    But when the plane is forced to make an emergency landing, Torrance saves his passengers by landing on a remote island, only to find that it is inhabited by a dangerous group of rebels. When the passengers are taken hostage, Torrance and Gaspare must learn to trust each other and work together in order to rescue them and survive.

    The result is a fun and entertaining action-adventure that has elements of ‘Con Air,’ ‘The Grey,’ ‘Speed,’ and even ‘Sully,’ and features a great onscreen duo in Butler and Colter.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in 'Plane.'
    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    In some ways, Gerard Butler is one of the most reliable movie stars working today. He created a strong action franchise with the ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ trilogy, and had such success with one-off movies like ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ and ‘Den of Thieves’ that sequels are in the works for each. He’s also appeared in a string of successful action movies like ‘Geostorm,’ ‘Copshop,’ and ‘Greenland.’

    With ‘Plane’ Butler adds another entertaining action movie to his resume and also continues to create believable “everyman” characters for the audience to relate to. In a world that is dominated by superhero movies, it’s nice to see a fillm about an “ordinary man in an extraordinary situation” that audiences can actually relate to. Butler has wisely shed the superhero persona that made him a household name with ‘300,’ for an “everyman” persona that he has played well in films like ‘Greenland’ and now ‘Plane.’

    Mike Colter, who should be a much bigger star than he is, is probably best known for his work as the title character on Netflix’s Marvel series ‘Luke Cage,’ as well as the CBS series ‘Evil.’ Colter gives a strong performance as convict Louis Gaspare, and is a great partner for Butler. The two actors have a strong chemistry together, and I enjoyed the fact that they left Gaspare’s backstory a mystery, as it was not necessary and adds to the mystic of his character.

    Director Jean-François Richet really packs the movie with incredible action sequences, including the crash landing that begins the film. But the action doesn’t stop there, as that is only the beginning and the movie features some great shoot-outs and fight scenes with both Butler and Colter. However, the film also features several quieter moments that allow the audience a better chance to understand these character’s emotions, thanks to a fairly smart script from screenwriters Charles Cumming and J.P. Davis.

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in 'Plane.'
    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    Veteran character actors Paul Ben-Victor and Tony Goldwyn make welcomed additions to the cast as the airline owner and his crisis manager, respectively. While Butler and Colter are obviously the leads, it certainly helped the integrity of the project to sprinkle in such talented and respected actors in supporting roles.

    Actress Daniella Pineda, who plays flight attendant Bonnie, is fine in her role, but has limited screen time and could have been given more to do. The weakest point in the cast is probably the rebels. They do the most with what is given, but ultimately the villains were tragically underwritten. It works for a while, having the rebel forces’ true motivations a mystery to both the audience and the other characters, but once they are revealed, little is done to humanize them or make their point of view clear.

    In the end, director Jean-François Richet delivers a fun and entertaining action movie that combines elements we’ve seen before but does it in a new and fresh way. Gerard Butler continues his success at turning otherwise “B-Movies” into entertaining theatrical experiences, with some help from Mike Colter’s strong performance and the two actors great onscreen chemistry together.

    ‘Plane’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in "Plane.' Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in “Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
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  • ‘Plane’ Exclusive Interview: Gerard Butler and Mike Colter

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    Opening in theaters on January 13th is the new action-thriller ‘Plane,’ which was directed by Jean-François Richet (‘Assault on Precinct 13’).

    The film stars Gerard Butler (‘300,’ ‘Olympus Has Fallen,’ ‘Den of Thieves‘) as commercial pilot Brodie Torrance, who saves his passengers from a lightning strike by making a risky landing on a war-torn island, only to find that surviving the landing was just the beginning.

    When the passengers are taken hostage by dangerous rebels, the only person Torrance can count on for help is Louis Gaspare (‘Luke Cage’s Mike Colter), an accused murderer who was being transported by the FBI. Now, Torrance and Gaspare must learn to trust each other and work together in order to rescue the passengers and survive.

    In addition to Butler and Colter, the movie also features Yoson An, Daniella Pineda, Kelly Gale, Paul Ben-Victor, and Tony Goldwyn.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Gerard Butler and Mike Colter about their work on ‘Plane,’ what audiences can expect from the new movie, why Butler wanted to play this role, and the bond that is formed between his and Colter’s characters.

    Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in "Plane.' Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.
    (L to R) Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance and Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in “Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Gerard Butler and Mike Colter about ‘Plane.’

    Moviefone: To begin with, what would you both say to audiences getting ready to watch this movie to prepare them for the theatrical experience they are about to have?

    Mike Colter: Listen, ‘Plane’ is a movie that is for everybody. Everybody is going to enjoy this film because this film, it checks all the boxes. It’s a thriller, it’s passionate, and it’s action. It’s a character-driven plot that you can’t get away from because we basically connect and we’re from opposite sides of the spectrum. What people are going to respond to are things that they’ve experienced in their life, but it’s a thrill ride and you just got to watch it from beginning to end, and it’s going to be fast so enjoy.

    Gerard Butler: I feel like we have the survival, we have the drama, and we have the thriller. It really has so much going on. You’re dealing with characters that aren’t superheroes, they’re characters that you can get behind. They’re the underdogs.

    One, we have what I think is one of the most thrilling action sequences on the plane as we go through this storm, that we are not letting anybody off the hook. You’re in it till the end and it’s terrifying. It’s just white knuckle, and then that’s the start of the movie. Once we land, we’re in a whole new world of Hell. But it’s such a fascinating dynamic between the passengers, how do you control them?

    Then me as a captain who’s pretty square, big heart, but I have to rely on essentially an accused murderer, who I know is far better in this environment than I am. It leads to a really, I think, memorable relationship in an action movie between these two guys.

    Daniella Pineda as Bonnie Lane, Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance, and Yoson An as Samuel Dele in 'Plane.'
    (L to R) Daniella Pineda as Bonnie Lane, Gerard Butler as Brodie Torrance, and Yoson An as Samuel Dele in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    MF: Gerard, Brodie Torrance is an ordinary guy thrown into an extraordinary circumstance. Can you talk about that and the challenges of playing a character like that?

    GB: For me, it was a chance for me to play a character who’s, in a lot of ways, more like me as a person. He’s an everyman. This morning that he wakes up, he’s kind of a sad guy. He lost his wife, and he’s trying to bond with his daughter. He thinks he’s flying on New Year’s Eve, and he’s going to get some precious time because things haven’t been going very well in his career. He is flying for an economy airline on the other side of the world. A few hours later he realizes that he’s in a position where these next few hours will define his whole life, and he didn’t even know what it was going to pull out of him.

    How far does a sense of duty take you that you owe to your passengers or the people around you? He clearly takes that to the extreme, but as I say, there’s no perfection in these characters. Is he taking them down the wrong path? Am I going to get them all killed? A lot of the time, I’m gung-ho and this man here’s like, “Yeah, that’s cool, but there’s other ways to go about this.” That’s another fascinating thing about our dynamic.

    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in 'Plane.'
    Mike Colter as Louis Gaspare in ‘Plane.’ Photo Credit: Kenneth Rexach.

    MF: Finally, Mike, Louis Gaspare seems uniquely qualified for the situation he finds himself in. Can you talk about that and the partnership that he forms with Brodie?

    MC: It’s really interesting because we never really lay out exactly all of his skills, or anything like that. But it’s interesting because within the context of the two characters, Brodie is more gung-ho, as Gerard said. I’m kind of pulling him back. He’s got all the heart, and he’s got all the determination. I’m sort of assessing things, trying to figure out how to survive and how to make sure we don’t do too much and keep us alive. We’re trying to live to fight another day.

    So, I think his character inspires my character to do things that he normally wouldn’t do for other people because he’s never had to. In this situation, he’s an accused murderer. If anything, he’s about self-preservation. But I think he just sees the passion and the humanity in Brodie. That rubs off on him and that creates this bond between the two of them. Somehow you just see them joined at the hip for a bit and it’s a great thing to see.

    Gerard Butler and Mike Colter star in "Plane.'
    (L to R) Gerard Butler and Mike Colter star in “Plane.’
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  • ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ Sequel in the Works

    Gerard Butler in 2009's 'Law Abiding Citizen.'
    Gerard Butler in 2009’s ‘Law Abiding Citizen.’

    2009’s crime thriller ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ clearly has its fans. And among them? Star Gerard Butler, who appears ready to bring more of the story to screens. But the twist is, he probably won’t be in front of the cameras this time.

    Should you need your memory refreshed, here’s the basics for the movie: it
    starred Butler and Jamie Foxx and was directed by F. Gary Gray. The story follows assistant district attorney Nick Rice’s (Foxx) pursuit of Clyde Shelton (Butler), a frustrated father who implements an elaborate and twisted plan to bring down the entire judicial system in Philadelphia after a plea bargain by Rice sets free the man who murdered Shelton’s wife and daughter.

    The cast for this one also includes Colm Meaney, Bruce McGill, Leslie Bibb, Regina Hall, Gregory Itzin, Viola Davis, Roger Bart, and Michael Kelly. While the critical reaction to the movie was far from positive when ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ arrived in theaters, the audience response was more enthusiastic, and it ended up earning more than $130 million.

    Part of the reason for the sequel being thrown into more active development? The fact that the original landed on Netflix last December, and quickly became one of the most popular movies on the service, along with ‘Red Notice’ and ‘The Unforgivable’.

    Story details for the new movie are under wraps for now, but while Butler is certainly one of the producers, he’s yet to make a deal to return as an actor for the new movie – which is not all that surprising since (spoiler alert) his character dies at the end of the first “Citizen”. It appears more likely that it could continue the story of Foxx’s Rice, the crusading ADA whose life was impacted by his and Shelton’s actions. Or it’ll be a completely fresh tale.

    Jamie Foxx and Brice McGill in 2009's 'Law Abiding Citizen.'
    Jamie Foxx and Brice McGill in 2009’s ‘Law Abiding Citizen.’

    What we do know is that writer/producer Kurt Wimmer will be back alongside fellow producer Lucas Foster. Rivulet Films’ Rob Paris and Mike Witherill are producing alongside Foster and Wimmer, plus Village Roadshow Pictures’ Tristen Tuckfield and Jillian Apfelbaum, who will be executive producers.

    As for who could direct the movie? It’s far too early for that sort of talk, though the team could tempt Gray to return. And if he doesn’t, Wimmer also has directorial experience.

    As a writer, Wimmer most recently created original screenplay ‘The Beekeeper’ which is being turned into a new action thriller for David Ayer to direct and Jason Statham set to star.

    “I am delighted to partner with Rob, Mike, and Village Roadshow Pictures, together with my frequent creative partner Kurt Wimmer, to revisit these great characters and this compelling topic which seems even more relevant today than when we made the original film,” says Foster. “We’re going to blow your mind… again.”

    The business of Gerard Butler sequels is a busy one of late – he’s back for a ‘Den of Thieves’ follow-up and ‘Greenland: Migration’ is in pre-production, while a forth ‘Olympus has Fallen’ follow-up, ‘Night has Fallen’ sits at the pitch stage.

    Gerard Butler in 2009's 'Law Abiding Citizen.'
    Gerard Butler in 2009’s ‘Law Abiding Citizen.’
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  • ‘Den of Thieves’ Sequel to Shoot This Year

    'Den of Thieves' Photo Courtesy of STX Films
    ‘Den of Thieves’ Photo Courtesy of STX Films

    Gerard Butler fans, prepare to celebrate. Because the sequel to one of his movies is preparing to shoot this spring.

    As announced by Deadline, ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’ is on track to start filming in Serbia and France in the late spring, with writer/director Christian Gudegast back behind the camera.

    In case you somehow missed the 2018 action thriller, here are the basics: Buter plays Nick O’Brien, the hard-drinking leader of the Regulators, an elite unit of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Ray Merrimen (‘Orange is the new Black’s Pablo Schreiber), meanwhile is the recently paroled leader of the Outlaws, a gang of ex-military men who use their expertise and tactical skills to evade the law. O’Brien, Merrimen and their crews soon find themselves on a direct collision course as the criminals hatch an elaborate plan for a seemingly impossible heist – the city’s Federal Reserve Bank.

    The movie also featured O’Shea Jackson Jr. as Donnie Wilson, the ace driver of the thief team, 50 Cent as Enson Levoux, a former Marine who also aids Merriman, while Meadow Williams played Holly, who is in relationship with Merriman.

    On the law enforcement side, we have Maurice Compote as Detective Benny “Borracho” Magalon, Brian Van Holt as Detective Murph Connors and Mo McRae as Detective Gus Henderson, who all work on “Big” Nick’s team.

    In a twist in the style of ‘The Usual Suspects’, it’s revealed that Donnie is the actual mastermind behind the heist, and he escapes with the loot to Europe where he’s seen working at a bar while planning his next heist.

    'Den of Thieves' Photo Courtesy of STX Films
    ‘Den of Thieves’ Photo Courtesy of STX Films

    ‘Pantera’ picks up with Big Nick on the hunt in Europe for Donnie, who is embroiled in the dangerous world of diamond thieves and the infamous Panther mafia as they plot a massive heist of the world’s biggest diamond exchange.

    O’Shea Jackson Jr. is officially back on board, as is Williams, while ‘After’s Swen Temmel is among the new faces joining for this one. The sequel’s rights are up for grabs at the European Film Market, and while STX distributed the original in the States, other companies are looking to take on the sequel.

    According to Deadline, Gudegast has been doing some deep dive research for the story, spending time with both criminals and the investigators who hunt them down. So, if you ever wondered whether the first film was backed up by knowledge, and wasn’t just your average crime thriller, consider yourself up to date!

    Given that Gudegast shepherded the original film through roughly 14 years of development, it must be a relief that the sequel is coming together relatively swiftly – even if the pandemic did cause an extra delay.

    Before the sequel arrives, though, Butler has several movies awaiting release, including action thriller ‘The Plane’ and ‘Kandahar’, which finds him working again with ‘Angel Has Fallen’ and ‘Greenland’ director Ric Roman Waugh.

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