Tag: jamie-foxx

  • Best Football Movies To Watch On Super Bowl Sunday

    Best Football Movies of All Time.
    Best Football Movies of All Time.

    “Are you ready for some Football?”

    Super Bowl LX is scheduled for Sunday, February 8th and it promises to be an unforgettable game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots.

    6966

    However,  if you still need your football fix, Moviefone has compiled a list of 30 of the best football movies of all time for you to watch after the game.

    These football movies cover what happens both on and off the field, and best of all, every movie here is streaming right now, so you can get started watching any of them immediately.

    Let’s begin!

    Related Article: Tyriq Withers Talks ‘HIM’ Digital Release and Working with Marlon Wayans


    30. ‘The Blind Side‘ (2009)

    (L to R) Quinton Aaron and Sandra Bullock in 'The Blind Side.' Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.
    (L to R) Quinton Aaron and Sandra Bullock in ‘The Blind Side.’ Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.

    The story of Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) a homeless and traumatized boy who became an All American football player and first round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman (Sandra Bullock) and her family

    37685

    29. ‘American Underdog‘ (2021)

    American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player – but just when his dreams seemed all but out of reach, it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is.

    3P4vwGzXzWONIniR96KEr2

    28. ‘Radio‘ (2003)

    High school football coach Harold Jones (Ed Harris) befriends Radio (Cuba Gooding Jr.), a mentally-challenged man who becomes a student at TL Hanna High School in Anderson South Carolina. Their friendship extends over several decades where Radio transforms from a shy tormented man into an inspiration to his community.

    14634

    27. ‘Gridiron Gang‘ (2006)

    Under the leadership of their counselor (Dwayne Johnson), teenagers at a juvenile detention center gain selfesteem by playing football together.

    23754

    26. ‘All the Right Moves‘ (1983)

    Sensitive study of a headstrong high school football star (Tom Cruise) who dreams of getting out of his small Western Pennsylvania steel town with a football scholarship. His equally ambitious coach (Craig T. Nelson) aims at a college position resulting in a clash which could crush the players dreams.

    1000946

    25. ‘The Underdoggs‘ (2024)

    (L to R) Snoop Dogg as Jaycen "2 J's" Jennings and Mike Epps as Kareem in director Charles Stone III's 'The Underdoggs,' an Amazon MGM Studios film. Photo credit: Jacob Kemp. © 2024 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Snoop Dogg as Jaycen “2 J’s” Jennings and Mike Epps as Kareem in director Charles Stone III’s ‘The Underdoggs,’ an Amazon MGM Studios film. Photo credit: Jacob Kemp. © 2024 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Jaycen ‘Two Js’ Jennings (Snoop Dogg) is a washed-up former pro football star who has hit rock bottom. When he is sentenced to do community service coaching the Underdoggs, an unruly pee-wee football team in his hometown, he sees it mostly as an opportunity to rebuild his public image. But in the process, he may just turn his life around and rediscover his love of the game.

    4bPoq1uMr4MdNZVIA5rPB5

    24. ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)

    Pro quarterback Paul Crewe (Adam Sandler) and former college champion and coach Nate Scarboro (Burt Reynolds) are doing time in the same prison and are asked to put together a team of inmates to take on the guards. Crewe enlists the help of Scarboro to coach the inmates to victory in a football game fixed to turn out quite another way.

    18246

    23. ‘The Program‘ (1993)

    Several players from different backgrounds try to cope with the pressures of playing football at a major university. Each deals with the pressure differently some turn to drinking others to drugs and some to studying.

    8462

    22. ‘The Best of Times‘ (1986)

    A smalltown loser (Robin Williams) determines to have one more shot at the big time by winning a football game.

    1002999

    21. ‘Varsity Blues‘ (1999)

    In small-town Texas, high school football is a religion, 17-year-old schoolboys carry the hopes of an entire community onto the gridiron every Friday night. When star quarterback Lance Harbor (Paul Walker) suffers an injury, the Coyotes are forced to regroup under the questionable leadership of John Moxon (James Van Der Beek), a second-string quarterback with a slightly irreverent approach to the game.

    5081

    20. ‘The Longest Yard‘ (1974)

    Burt Reynolds in 1974's 'The Longest Yard.' Photo: Paramount Pictures.
    Burt Reynolds in 1974’s ‘The Longest Yard.’ Photo: Paramount Pictures.

    A football player-turned-convict (Burt Reynolds) organizes a team of inmates to play against a team of prison guards. His dilemma is that the warden (Eddie Albert) asks him to throw the game in return for an early release but he is also concerned about the inmates lack of self-esteem.

    21494


    19. ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)

    Bobby Boucher (Adam Sandler) is a water boy for a struggling college football team. The coach (Henry Winkler) discovers Boucher’s hidden rage makes him a tackling machine whose bone-crushing power might vault his team into the playoffs.

    4514

    18. ‘Jerry Maguire‘ (1996)

    Jerry Maguire (Tom Cruise) used to be a typical sports agent willing to do just about anything he could to get the biggest possible contracts for his clients plus a nice commission for himself. Then one day he suddenly has second thoughts about what he’s really doing. When he voices these doubts he ends up losing his job and all of his clients save Rod Tidwell (Cuba Gooding Jr.) an egomaniacal football player.

    3239

    17. ‘Invincible‘ (2006)

    Inspired by the true story of Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg), a man with nothing to lose who ignored the staggering odds and made his dream come true. When the coach of Papale’s beloved hometown football team hosted an unprecedented open tryout, the public consensus was that it was a waste of time – no one good enough to play professional football was going to be found this way.

    25912

    16. ‘Leatherheads‘ (2008)

    A light hearted comedy about the beginnings of Professional American Football. When a decorated war hero (George Clooney) and college all star (John Krasinski) is tempted into playing professional football. Everyone see the chance to make some big money, but when a reporter digs up some dirt on the war hero… everyone could lose out.

    27495

    15. ‘HIM‘ (2025)

    Marlon Wayans is Isaiah (back, pointing) and Tyriq Withers is Cam (foreground) in 'HIM', directed by Justin Tipping. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Marlon Wayans is Isaiah (back, pointing) and Tyriq Withers is Cam (foreground) in ‘HIM’, directed by Justin Tipping. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    After suffering a potentially career-ending brain trauma, Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) receives a lifeline when his hero, legendary eight-time Championship quarterback and cultural megastar Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans), offers to train Cam at Isaiah’s isolated compound that he shares with his celebrity influencer wife. But as Cam’s training accelerates, Isaiah’s charisma begins to curdle into something darker.

    1eBfWAQQkwFhA9lMUmOsv Nw7z4vMX

    14. ‘Necessary Roughness‘ (1991)

    When the Texas Southern Armadillos football team is disqualified for cheating and poor grades, the University is forced to pick from a team that actually goes to school. Will they even win a single game?

    5340

    13. ‘North Dallas Forty‘ (1979)

    A semi-fictional account of life as a professional football player. Loosely based on the Dallas Cowboys team of the early 1970s.

    1025481

    12. ‘80 for Brady‘ (2023)

    Inspired by the true story of four best friends (Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno and Sally Field) living life to the fullest when they take a wild trip to the 2017 Super Bowl LI to see their hero Tom Brady play.

    ldyGzySVeWsuBPnI1itDQ7

    11. ‘Draft Day‘ (2014)

    At the NFL Draft, general manager Sonny Weaver (Kevin Costner) has the opportunity to rebuild his team when he trades for the number one pick. He must decide what he’s willing to sacrifice on a life-changing day for a few hundred young men with NFL dreams.

    10123424

    10. ‘The Replacements‘ (2000)

    Keanu Reeves in 'The Replacements'. Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.
    Keanu Reeves in ‘The Replacements’. Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.

    Maverick old-guard coach Jimmy McGinty (Gene Hackman) is hired in the wake of a players’ strike to help the Washington Sentinels advance to the playoffs. But that impossible dream hinges on whether his replacements can hunker down and do the job, including washed up Quarterback Shane Falco (Keanu Reeves). So, McGinty dusts off his secret dossier of ex-players who never got a chance (or screwed up the one they were given) and knits together a bad-dream team of guys who just may give the Sentinels their title shot.

    7831

    9. ‘Brian’s Song‘ (1971)

    Based on the real-life relationship between teammates Brian Piccolo (James Caan) and Gale Sayers (Billy Dee Williams) and the bond established when Piccolo discovers that he is dying.

    9291

    8. ‘Heaven Can Wait‘ (1978)

    Joe Pendleton (Warren Beatty) is a quarterback preparing to lead his team to the Super Bowl when he is almost killed in an accident. An overanxious angel plucks him to heaven only to discover that he wasn’t ready to die, and that his body has been cremated. A new body must be found, and that of a recently-murdered millionaire is chosen. His wife and accountant—the murderers—are confused by this development, as he buys the L.A. Rams in order to once again quarterback them into the Super Bowl.

    1180

    7. ‘Wildcats‘ (1986)

    Molly (Goldie Hawn) is a high school track coach who knows just as much about football as anyone else on the planet. When a football coach’s position becomes vacant, she applies for the job, despite snickers from fellow staff members and her former husband.

    23449

    6. ‘We Are Marshall‘ (2006)

    When a plane crash claims the lives of members of the Marshall University football team and some of its fans, the team’s new coach (Matthew McConaughey) and his surviving players try to keep the football program alive.

    25380

    5. ‘The Last Boy Scout‘ (1991)

    (L to R) Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans in 'The Last Boy Scout'. Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans in ‘The Last Boy Scout’. Photo: Warner Bros.

    When the girl (Halle Berry) that detective Joe Hallenback (Bruce Willis) is protecting gets murdered, the boyfriend (Damon Wayans) of the murdered girl attempts to investigate and solve the case. What they discover is that there is deep seated corruption going on between a crooked politician and the owner of a pro football team.

    20731

    4. ‘Rudy‘ (1993)

    Rudy (Sean Austin) grew up in a steel mill town where most people ended up working, but wanted to play football at Notre Dame instead. There were only a couple of problems. His grades were a little low, his athletic skills were poor, and he was only half the size of the other players. But he had the drive and the spirit of five people and has set his sights upon joining the team.

    8560

    3. ‘Friday Night Lights‘ (2004)

    A small, turbulent town in Texas obsesses over their high school football team to an unhealthy degree. When the star tailback, Boobie Miles (Derek Luke), is seriously injured during the first game of the season, all hope is lost, and the town’s dormant social problems begin to flare up. It is left to the inspiring abilities of new coach Gary Gaines (Billy Bob Thornton) to instill in the other team members — and, by proxy, the town itself — a sense of self-respect and honor.

    18128

    2. ‘Remember the Titans‘ (2000)

    After leading his football team to 15 winning seasons, coach Bill Yoast (Will Patton) is demoted and replaced by Herman Boone (Denzel Washington) – tough, opinionated and as different from the beloved Yoast as he could be. The two men learn to overcome their differences and turn a group of hostile young men into champions.

    7930

    1. ‘Any Given Sunday‘ (1999)

    (L to R) Jamie Foxx, Al Pacino and Denis Quaid in 'Any Given Sunday'. Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Jamie Foxx, Al Pacino and Denis Quaid in ‘Any Given Sunday’. Photo: Warner Bros.

    A star quarterback (Dennis Quaid) gets knocked out of the game and an unknown third stringer (Jamie Foxx) is called in to replace him. The unknown gives a stunning performance and forces the ageing coach (Al Pacino) to reevaluate his game plans and life. A new co-owner/president (Cameron Diaz) adds to the pressure of winning. The new owner must prove herself in a male dominated world.

    6966
  • Austin Butler in Early Talks For New ‘Miami Vice’ Movie

    (Left) Austin Butler stars in 'Elvis.' (Right) Don Johnson in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (Left) Austin Butler stars in ‘Elvis.’ (Right) Don Johnson in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    Preview:

    • Austin Butler is in early talks for the new ‘Miami Vice’ movie.
    • Joseph Kosinski is directing.
    • If he does sign on, Butler would join Michael B. Jordan in the film.

    Well, we were at least close with our guess.

    Some context: you might recall that recently we brought word that Michael B. Jordan was in early talks to play Detective Ricardo Tubbs in ‘F1’ director Joseph Kosinski’s planned new movie based on iconic cop series ‘Miami Vice’.

    We speculated then that Glen Powell might take on the role of fellow cop Sonny Crockett, but it appears Kosinski is looking to hire a different young rising star.

    OjA70hLzno6keyWOii09W

    Per Variety, Austin Butler, who has been seen in the likes of ‘Elvis,’ ‘Dune: Part Two’ and ‘Caught Stealing’, is in the nascent stages of making his own deal to play Crockett.

    Related Article: Michael B. Jordan in Early Talks For Joseph Kosinski’s New ‘Miami Vice’

    What’s the story of ‘Miami Vice’?

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    ‘Miami Vice’ began life in the early 1980s as a TV show created by ‘Hill Street Blues’ writer Anthony Yerkovich, after NBC president Brandon Tartikoff requested a program that combined the style of MTV with a cop series. The result, produced by Michael Mann, starred Don Johnson as Crockett and Philip Michael Thomas as Tubbs, two detectives working undercover in Miami. The show, which ran for five seasons from 1984 to 1990, became known for its groundbreaking visual style, its hip needle drops, and the fashions worn by its characters, arguably revolutionizing the look of TV crime drama for decades to come.

    After Mann moved into directing feature films with ‘The Last of the Mohicans,’ ‘Heat,’ and others, he rebooted ‘Miami Vice’ as a 2006 movie starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx as Crockett and Tubbs. While not initially a hit with either critics or audiences, the film has since been reappraised and is now considered a cult classic.

    Where else can we see Austin Butler?

    Austin Butler stars as Hank in Columbia Pictures 'Caught Stealing'. Photo by: Niko Tavernise. © 2024 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved. **ALL IMAGES ARE PROPERTY OF SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT INC. FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY. SALE, DUPLICATION OR TRANSFER OF THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
    Austin Butler stars as Hank in Columbia Pictures ‘Caught Stealing’. Photo by: Niko Tavernise. © 2024 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved. **ALL IMAGES ARE PROPERTY OF SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT INC. FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY. SALE, DUPLICATION OR TRANSFER OF THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

    Butler is attached to or rumored for a number of upcoming projects, including Mann’s ‘Heat 2’, Don Winslow adaptation ‘City on Fire’ and could end up playing Patrick Bateman for Luca Guadagnino’s new take on ‘American Psycho.’

    When will the new ‘Miami Vice’ be on our screens?

    The movie is currently set for release on August 6, 2027.

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    List of Joseph Kosinski Movies:

    Buy Joseph Kosinski Movies on Amazon

    n20k9iIH
  • Michael B. Jordan in Early Talks For the New ‘Miami Vice’

    (Left) Michael B. Jordan directs and stars as Adonis Creed in 'Creed III.' (Right) Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (Left) Michael B. Jordan directs and stars as Adonis Creed in ‘Creed III.’ (Right) Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    Preview:

    • Michael B. Jordan is in early talks for the new ‘Miami Vice’ movie.
    • Joseph Kosinski is directing.
    • Universal is behind the new effort.

    It may not be at sweltering Miami city levels just yet, but ‘F1’ director Joseph Kosinski’s development of a new movie based on cult detective series ‘Miami Vice’ is certainly heating up.

    The latest rumor? ‘Sinners’ Michael B. Jordan is in early talks to take on the role of detective Ricardo Tubbs, as played in the show by Philip Michael Thomas.

    OjA70hLzno6keyWOii09W

    Kosinski will be working from a script written by Eric Warren Singer and Dan Gilroy, and assuming Jordan’s deal comes together (he’s reportedly very interested), the search will intensify for someone to play Tubbs’ partner Sonny Crockett.

    Our guess? Glen Powell. But let’s see where things land.

    Related Article: Universal Hands Out 2027 Release Date to Joseph Kosinski’s ‘Miami Vice’

    What’s the story of ‘Miami Vice’?

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    ‘Miami Vice’ began life in the early 1980s as a TV show created by ‘Hill Street Blues’ writer Anthony Yerkovich, after NBC president Brandon Tartikoff requested a program that combined the style of MTV with a cop series. The result, produced by Michael Mann, starred Don Johnson as Crockett and Thomas as Rico Tubbs, two detectives working undercover in Miami. The show, which ran for five seasons from 1984 to 1990, became known for its groundbreaking visual style, its hip needle drops, and the fashions worn by its characters, arguably revolutionizing the look of TV crime drama for decades to come.

    After Mann moved into directing feature films with ‘The Last of the Mohicans,’ ‘Heat,’ and others, he rebooted ‘Miami Vice’ as a 2006 movie starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx as Crockett and Tubbs. While not initially a hit with either critics or audiences, the film has since been reappraised and is now considered a cult classic.

    What else is Michael B. Jordan working on?

    Michael B. Jordan announces 'Creed' spin-off 'Delphi' at the Amazon Upfront on May 13th, 2025. Photo: Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Amazon
    Michael B. Jordan announces ‘Creed’ spin-off ‘Delphi’ at the Amazon Upfront on May 13th, 2025. Photo: Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Amazon

    Part of the reason for Jordan’s deal not yet being closed is scheduling; the actor is busy directing and starring in his own new version of an older property –– ‘The Thomas Crown Affair.’

    He’ll need time to finish editing that movie before he can truly commit to ‘Miami Vice.’

    When will the new ‘Miami Vice’ be on our screens?

    The movie is currently dated for August 6, 2027.

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    List of Joseph Kosinski Movies:

    Buy Joseph Kosinski Movies on Amazon

    n20k9iIH
  • Joseph Kosinski’s ‘Miami Vice’ Movie Scores Release Date

    (Left) Director-Producer Joseph Kosinski attends a Press Conference in Mexico City on June 10th, 2025 for Warner Bros. Pictures / Apple Original Films 'F1'. Photo Credit: Chino Lemus. Copyright: Chino Lemus 2022. (Right) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (Left) Director-Producer Joseph Kosinski attends a Press Conference in Mexico City on June 10th, 2025 for Warner Bros. Pictures / Apple Original Films ‘F1’. Photo Credit: Chino Lemus. Copyright: Chino Lemus 2022. (Right) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    Preview:

    • Universal has dated the new ‘Miami Vice’ for 2027.
    • Joseph Kosinski is directing.
    • No casting has been announced yet.

    First there was ‘Miami Vice’, the iconic 1980s detective drama. In 2006, Michael Mann brought us Movie Vice (okay, it was still just called ‘Miami Vice’ on the big screen, but go with us here).

    uwOywi2iZbnijnCqL15n06

    And, back in April, word landed that ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘F1’ director Joseph Kosinski was going to take his own crack at the concept for Universal.

    It would appear that the success of ‘F1’ ($624 million worldwide so far on an admittedly hefty budget) has spurred the studio to truly commit to Kosinski’s version, with the company handing down a 2027 release slot.

    Related Article: ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Director Will Helm New ‘Miami Vice’ Movie

    What’s the story of ‘Miami Vice’?

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    ‘Miami Vice’ began life in the early 1980s as a TV show created by ‘Hill Street Blues’ writer Anthony Yerkovich, after NBC president Brandon Tartikoff requested a program that combined the style of MTV with a cop series. The result, produced by Michael Mann, starred Don Johnson as Sonny Crockett and Philip Michael Thomas as Rico Tubbs, two detectives working undercover in Miami. The show, which ran for five seasons from 1984 to 1990, became known for its groundbreaking visual style, its hip needle drops, and the fashions worn by its characters, arguably revolutionizing the look of TV crime drama for decades to come.

    After Mann moved into directing feature films with ‘The Last of the Mohicans,’ ‘Heat,’ and others, he rebooted ‘Miami Vice’ as a 2006 movie starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx as Crockett and Tubbs. While not initially a hit with either critics or audiences, the film has since been reappraised and is now considered a cult classic.

    According to Deadline, Kosinski, working from a script by ‘Andor’s Dan Gilroy, is busy locking in his cast with an aim to shoot next year.

    What else is Joseph Kosinski working on?

    Director/Producer Joseph Kosinski on the set of Apple Original Films’ 'F1', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Scott Garfield. Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures / Apple Original Films. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    Director/Producer Joseph Kosinski on the set of Apple Original Films’ ‘F1’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Scott Garfield. Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures / Apple Original Films. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Kosinski has also been developing an untitled UFO thriller alongside his ‘F1’ partners Apple and producer Jerry Bruckheimer.

    That seemed to be in pole position, but the date announcement for ‘Vice’ suggests it may now have taken precedence.

    So, when will the new ‘Miami Vice’ be on our screens?

    The movie is currently dated for August 6th, 2027.

    It has displaced an untitled Universal film, which itself has shifted to September 24th and now appears to be a DreamWorks Animation entry.

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    List of Joseph Kosinski Movies:

    Buy Joseph Kosinski Movies on Amazon

    EcxfKuVJ
  • ‘Tin Soldier’ Exclusive Interview: Scott Eastwood

    eSwxGPH4

    Opening in theaters on September 12th before arriving on digital and On-Demand beginning September 30th is the new action thriller ‘Tin Soldier’, which was directed by Brad Furman (‘The Lincoln Lawyer’), and stars Scott Eastwood (‘Fast X’), John Leguizamo (‘Violent Night’), and Oscar winners Jamie Foxx (‘Miami Vice’), and Robert De Niro (‘Heat’).

    vcSSmpoZFIpQ0LGzpDW001
    Scott Eastwood in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    Scott Eastwood in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Scott Eastwood about his work on ‘Tin Soldier’, his first reaction to the screenplay, his research into cults, what his character is fighting for, working with Jamie Foxx and Robert De Niro, doing his own stunts, and collaborating with director Brad Furman, as well as giving an update on when ‘Fast X: Part 2‘ will begin production.

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

    Related Article: Scott Eastwood Talks ‘Alarum’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ Franchise

    (L to R) Scott Eastwood and Jamie Foxx in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    (L to R) Scott Eastwood and Jamie Foxx in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    Moviefone: To begin with, what was your first reaction to the screenplay and why did you want to be part of this project?

    Scott Eastwood: The setup was quite interesting. It was original, but it’s something you could imagine could happen if a cult had formed, but instead of a bunch of yahoos, it’s ex-military. I thought that that was an interesting concept and having the one guy who had escaped the cult called back to help the government go in and break it up. At the same time, he is lured in by his wife who had gone missing, that she might still be alive. I thought that was an interesting concept. Also, Jamie Foxx and Robert De Niro, it was like, that’s a no-brainer. I got to work with those two.

    MF: Did you do research into real-life cults and the mindset of a person who is a former cult member?

    SE: Yeah. I watched a ton of documentaries about them. Luckily in recent years there’s been a lot of documentaries about these cults, whether it’s ‘Wild Wild Country’ or the Waco stuff. There’s been a lot more docs about them and a lot more deep dives into the psychology and how the brainwashing happens. It’s interesting stuff.

    (L to R) Scott Eastwood and Jamie Foxx in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    (L to R) Scott Eastwood and Jamie Foxx in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    MF: Can you talk about the relationship between Nash and Bokushi and what was it like working with on those scenes with Jamie Foxx?

    SE: Yeah, from the research, they sort of all have the same playbook. They break you down and then build you up and they become like a messiah for people and then it always seems that they turn ugly in some of the manifestations of these behaviors. Whoever these figures are, whether it’s the Bhagwan (Shree Rajneesh), Ron L. Hubbard, it sort of turns dark. Working with Jamie was great. I mean, he made some wild choices with this guy. So, getting to work opposite him was, for me, it made the job quite easy because he’s a bigger than life character, and he brought a ton of interesting choices to him. So as an actor it’s a dream because you just sort of react to those choices.

    MF: Did you know Jamie already before making this movie?

    SE: I did. Yeah, I did, and Jamie’s a great guy. He’s great and he’s easy to work with and super giving and friendly. He brings a vibe to the set that always gets people to smile and relax so you can be there and have fun doing your job.

    Robert De Niro in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    Robert De Niro in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    MF: You have some intense scenes with Robert De Niro. How did you prepare for those scenes and were you intimidated working with him?

    SE: Just like anything, yes, you feel that you want to do a good job, you want to bring life to this character, but that’s all just reps in the gym beforehand. By the time you get on set, you’ve already done all the hard work. You’ve already done the performance 10,000 times. You’ve done the emotional work, you’ve done all the prep work, so by the time you get there, then you can just relax and do the best job you can do. That all comes from your prep, prepping and doing the performance a bunch, and then you just get to show up and have fun.

    MF: What did you learn from working with De Niro, and could you see his greatness in the scene when you were acting opposite him?

    SE: Well, I think he would probably tell you the same thing. I’ve intellectualized a little bit about acting with him, and then I’ve also heard him speak through the years about process, but it’s a similar thing. If you’ve done the work and you’ve done the performance 10,000 times and you’ve mined it and go deeper and deeper into everything from all the choices the character would make, and just really discovering that, then by the time you get to the set, the hard work is done. I mean, I’ve heard him say that many times and we spoke about that.

    Robert De Niro in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    Robert De Niro in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    MF: I’ve heard that De Niro likes to do a table read with the cast before he signs on to a project to make sure it’s something that he wants to be involved with. Is that true? Was that the case on this film?

    SE: We didn’t do a table read that I can remember with him. My memory’s a little fuzzy, but I don’t remember doing that. But he is so prepped when he shows up on set. I mean, he has done all the work and really explored the character.

    MF: In many ways, as an ex-military and a former member of this cult, Nash is uniquely qualified for this mission. Can you talk about that and how he feels about going back to confront Bokushi?

    SE: Yeah, he is. I mean, he’s been in that world, sucked in and was really the only one to get out. So, he’s got that inside information and he’s been pulled back in. He is at the same time, I think, a very tormented character through what he’s been through, so he’s got that pulling at him, the whole movie, which makes him a very complex guy.

    Jamie Foxx in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    Jamie Foxx in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    MF: Nash returns to save his wife, who he is not even sure is still alive. Is that what drives the character in your opinion?

    SE: That’s what drives him, yeah. That’s sort of the emotional rollercoaster of the film. That’s the heart of it, trying to discover the truth, get back to the truth and find out if she’s alive. Which made it, that’s like the North Star. That’s all he really cares about. He doesn’t really care about trying to break this thing up. He’s there for his own reasons to see if his wife is alive.

    MF: Can you talk about shooting the action sequences and did you do all the stunts yourself?

    SE: I think so. Not everything. There were certain stunts, and we shot this movie in Greece. I find that anytime you go into Europe, you get away with a little bit more. You get away with some bigger stunts and get away with some stuff that might not be allowed in the U.S., which always makes for a better movie because you get a bigger production value out of it. But no, there were certain stunts that they didn’t want me doing that I sort of acquiesced and said, “Oh great, let’s let someone else do that one. That one seems like it’s threading the needle a little bit.” But I try to do as much as I can. It just helps the movie. When you can do the most that you can, then the movie becomes more visceral. You don’t have to cheat things; you can do cool camera movements if you keep the actor in those stunts.

    Scott Eastwood as “Joe” in the action crime thriller 'Alarum', a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate.
    Scott Eastwood as “Joe” in the action crime thriller ‘Alarum’, a Lionsgate release. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate.

    MF: You’ve played characters with military backgrounds before. Do you have to retrain every time or does the training stay with you?

    SE: You brush up on it before you do gun work and before you do that stuff. I think you always brush up on it just to keep it tight and make sure that’s good. But yeah, it’s in the toolbox for sure, so that’s easy for me.

    MF: What was your experience like collaborating with director Brad Furman on set?

    SE: Fascinating. He’s very complex and very visual. He’s a fascinating guy. We had a very tough shoot, but the movie turned out to be a wild ride.

    Scott Eastwood in 'The Fate of the Furious'. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Scott Eastwood in ‘The Fate of the Furious’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    MF: Finally, can you give us an update on ‘Fast X: Part 2’? Have you seen a script yet or do you know when you’ll begin shooting?

    SE: I don’t know, but I know that there’s talk about it and whispers about it right now. It’s happening right now.

    Jamie Foxx in 'Tin Soldier'. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    Jamie Foxx in ‘Tin Soldier’. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    What is the plot of ‘Tin Soldiers’?

    The Bokushi (Jamie Foxx), who preaches to hundreds of veterans who have been drawn to the promise of protection and purpose under him. After several failed infiltration attempts on his impenetrable fortress, military operative Emmanuel Ashburn (Robert De Niro) recruits Nash Cavanaugh (Scott Eastwood), an ex-special forces asset who was once a disciple of The Bokushi. Nash agrees to use his insider knowledge of the enigmatic leader as he seeks vengeance on the man who took everything from him, including the love of his life.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Tin Soldiers’?

    'Tin Soldier' opens in theaters on September 12th. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.
    ‘Tin Soldier’ opens in theaters on September 12th. Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films.

    List of Scott Eastwood Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Tin Soldier’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Scott Eastwood Movies On Amazon

     

  • New Big-Screen Version Of ‘Miami Vice’ In Development

    (Left) Director Joseph Kosinski at CinemaCon 2025. Photo: Warner Bros. (Right) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (Left) Director Joseph Kosinski at CinemaCon 2025. Photo: Warner Bros. (Right) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    Preview:

    • A new version of ‘Miami Vice’ is in development as a feature film, with Joseph Kosinski on board to direct.
    • Kosinski is the director of ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and the upcoming Brad Pitt racing drama ‘F1.’
    • Originally a hit TV series in the 1980s, ‘Miami Vice’ was made into a feature film by the show’s producer, Michael Mann, in 2006.

    Director Joseph Kosinski has been tapped to direct a new version of ‘Miami Vice’ for the big screen, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

    uwOywi2iZbnijnCqL15n06

    The Universal Pictures project will be scripted by Dan Gilroy, whose previous credits include ‘Nightcrawler,’ ‘Velvet Buzzsaw,’ and several episodes of ‘Andor.’ There is no word yet on casting or a release date.

    Related Article: Director Joseph Kosinski and Lewis Hamilton Talk ‘F1’ Trailer and More

    Why is Joseph Kosinski so hot right now?

    Director/Producer Joseph Kosinski on the set of Apple Original Films’ 'F1,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Director/Producer Joseph Kosinski on the set of Apple Original Films’ ‘F1,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    It’s fair to say that Joseph Kosinski has become one of the hottest directors in Hollywood following the billion-dollar, Oscar-nominated triumph of his ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ in 2022. Kosinski’s next movie, ‘F1,’ is due out in late June and will star Brad Pitt in a Formula One racing drama that carries a reported price tag of $200 million.

    Although Kosinski has signed up for ‘Miami Vice,’ his next film will be a similarly high-profile UFO thriller which is being produced by Apple Original Films (which also produced ‘F1’). His previous pictures include ‘Tron: Legacy,’ ‘Only the Brave,’ and ‘Oblivion,’ the latter of which marked his first collaboration with ‘Top Gun’ star Tom Cruise.

    What is the background of ‘Miami Vice’?

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    ‘Miami Vice’ began life in the early 1980s as a TV show created by ‘Hill Street Blues’ writer Anthony Yerkovich, after NBC president Brandon Tartikoff requested a program that combined the style of MTV with a cop series. The result, produced by Michael Mann, starred Don Johnson as Sonny Crockett and Philip Michael Thomas as Rico Tubbs, two detectives working undercover in Miami. The show, which ran for five seasons from 1984 to 1990, became known for its groundbreaking visual style, its hip needle drops, and the fashions worn by its characters, arguably revolutionizing the look of TV crime drama for decades to come.

    After Mann moved into directing feature films with ‘The Last of the Mohicans,’ ‘Heat,’ and others, he rebooted ‘Miami Vice’ as a 2006 movie starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx as Crockett and Tubbs. While not initially a hit with either critics or audiences, the film has since been reappraised and is now considered a cult classic.

    Since it’s unlikely that Farrell and Foxx will reprise their roles 20 years later, a new Crockett and Tubbs will no doubt be the first items on Kosinski’s to-do list.

    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series 'Miami Vice'. Photo: NBC/Universal.
    (L to R) Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’. Photo: NBC/Universal.

    List of Joseph Kosinski Movies:

    Buy Joseph Kosinski Movies on Amazon

    72Pd3Yaq
  • Blumhouse Touts ‘King Spawn’ Screenplay

    'Todd McFarlane's Spawn'.
    ‘Todd McFarlane’s Spawn’. Photo: HBO Animation.

    Preview:

    • Producer Jason Blum has revealed the script cover for ‘King Spawn’.
    • Matt Mixon, Malcolm Spellman and Scott Silver are credited with the new draft.
    • There is no word on what this means for creator Todd McFarlane’s directorial ambitions.

    If there is one complicated comic book character whose ongoing development woes can rival that of Marvel’s ‘Blade’, it’s surely Todd McFarlane’s hellish antihero ‘Spawn’.

    The latest incarnation has been through the wringer, even with McFarlane constantly talking about his plans for it. At last, though, there appears to be some positive momentum as Blumhouse boss Jason Blum –– his company agreed to co-produce a new movie years ago –– took to social media with a cover page for a version called ‘King Spawn’.

    What’s the story of ‘Spawn’?

    'Todd McFarlane's Spawn'.
    ‘Todd McFarlane’s Spawn’. Photo: HBO Animation.

    Created in 1992 by McFarlane for Image Comics, the character is a former black-ops agent who makes a deal with a demon after being betrayed and killed. The demon allows him to return to Earth, but when he returns, five years have passed, his wife has moved on, and he roams Earth as a disfigured spawn of hell.

    lMPEQWmARlg8lV9B7G1go4

    What has happened with ‘Spawn’ so far?

    Michael Jai White in 1997's 'Spawn'.
    Michael Jai White in 1997’s ‘Spawn’. Photo: New Line Cinema.

    Spawn has been the subject of a successful animated series and a movie in 1997 that didn’t score with critics or audiences and barely made its money back.

    At the San Diego Comic-Con in 2017, McFarlane confirmed that he’d partnered with the Blumhouse team to make an R-rated new movie adaptation.

    Yet ever since then, it has been a stream of announcements countered with delays, one-step-forward-two-steps-back momentum and no sign of bigger studio backing.

    Jamie Foxx and Jeremy Renner were cast in the lead role of Al Simmons and Twitch Williams, but elsewhere there was talk of endless script re-writes and McFarlane getting frustrated with the process.

    It has been a couple of years since our last concrete update –– that would be the hiring of writers Matt Mixon (‘The Milwaukee Project’), Scott Silver (‘Joker’) and Malcolm Spellman (‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ and the upcoming ‘Captain America: Brave New World’).

    Related Article: ‘Joker’s Scott Silver and ‘Falcon and Winter Soldier’s Malcolm Spellman to Write ‘Spawn’

    What’s next for ‘Spawn’?

    'Todd McFarlane's Spawn'.
    ‘Todd McFarlane’s Spawn’. Photo: HBO Animation.

    Interestingly, McFarlane only has a creator credit here, which doesn’t necessarily bode well for his input going forward. Is he still involved as director? Blum doesn’t say. Will Foxx and Renner still star? Unclear.

    But judging from the title, the ‘King Spawn’ script adapts McFarlane’s eponymous run of the comics that launched in 2021.

    Here’s what McFarlane told ComicBook.com last year when the writers were announced:

    “My original plan has gotten tripped up a bit. We’re bringing on A-list people. Not just one, but multiple A-list people… What they’re not going to want is to do a cheap, low-budget movie with all of these big-name people on it. That’s not why they’re signing up. They’re not looking for a big extravaganza. But they’re also not looking for an 8 million dollar horror movie budget.”

    Right now, the script page is all we have. But at least it’s something…

    'Todd McFarlane's Spawn'.
    ‘Todd McFarlane’s Spawn’. Photo: HBO Animation.

    Other Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Spawn’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Spawn’ Movies On Amazon

    gMzCPmFZ
  • Jamie Foxx Starring in ‘Not Another Church Movie’

    Jamie Foxx as Slick Charles in 'They Cloned Tyrone.'
    Jamie Foxx as Slick Charles in ‘They Cloned Tyrone.’ Cr. Parrish Lewis/Netflix © 2023.

    There have been some famous faces who have played God in the past –– Morgan Freeman (‘Bruce Almighty‘), for example. George Burns (‘Oh, God!‘). Val Kilmer (‘The Prince of Egypt‘). Even Alanis Morissette got into the act for Kevin Smith’s ‘Dogma’.

    Now we can add Jamie Foxx to the ranks of those who have stepped up to play the Biblical character in movies, as he’s taken the role in new comedy ‘Not Another Church Movie’ opposite Mickey Rourke, who will be the Devil, and ‘Sirens’ actor Kevin Daniels as a mortal man.

    Foxx, who has publicized some serious health struggles of late, appears to be fully recovered and has been popping up in various movies, including playing a pimp in ‘They Cloned Tyrone’ and voicing a dog in recent title ‘Strays’.

    And ‘Not Another Church Movie’ has the advantage of already being shot, which means it should be released later this year (and since it appears to be an independent production, it may well be able to take advantage of a waiver for its stars to promote it).

    IEZfkwh5xiTjdMttNt9p73

    What’s the story of ‘Not Another Church Movie’?

    The movie is described as “a wild ride through the fabulous world of Taylor Pharry (Daniels), an ambitious young man given a holy mission from God himself: to tell his family’s stories and inspire his community. His only concern? His family and community. What he doesn’t know is that the Devil has plans of his own.”

    Related Article: Director Josh Greenbaum Talks ‘Strays’ Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

    Who else is in ‘Not Another Church Movie’?

    Mickey Rourke as Major Johnson in the horror/supernatural thriller, 'Warhunt,' a Saban Films release.
    Mickey Rourke as Major Johnson in the horror/supernatural thriller, ‘Warhunt,’ a Saban Films release. Photo courtesy of Saban Films.

    Alongside Daniels, Foxx and Rourke, the cast also includes Vivica A. Fox, Tisha Campbell, Jasmine Guy, Kyla Pratt and Lamorne Morris.

    Written by Johnny Mack (who co-directs with James Michael Cummings), ‘Not Another Church Movie’ will look to tap into the sort of faith-based story that has been doing well at the box office in the last few years, albeit with more of a comedic angle.

    Here’s Cummings (who is also a producer on the movie) talking to Deadline about the latest casting:

    “We are thrilled to have Mr. Foxx be a part of this hilarious comedy and bring his incredible talent to the role of God, working with Foxx and Johnny Mack was a true blessing. This film is a unique blend of new and established talent, and we can’t wait to hear the laughs and for audiences to see the magic that happens on the big screen. This movie will not disappoint.”

    While ‘Not Another Church Movie’ has yet to announce a release date, next up for Foxx is ‘The Burial’, in which he plays a smooth-talking lawyer hired by a funeral home owner (Tommy Lee Jones) to save his business.

    Jamie Foxx as Bud Jablonski in 'Day Shift.'
    Jamie Foxx as Bud Jablonski in ‘Day Shift.’ Photo: Parrish Lewid/Netflix.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Not Another Church Movie:’

    Buy Jamie Foxx Movies On Amazon

  • Movie Review: ‘Strays’

    Reggie (Will Ferrell), Maggie (Isla Fisher), Hunter (Randall Park) and Bug (Jamie Foxx) in 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    (L to R) Reggie (Will Ferrell), Maggie (Isla Fisher), Hunter (Randall Park) and Bug (Jamie Foxx) in ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    In theaters now, ‘Strays’ represents an attempt to bring the sort of bawdy comedy found in the likes of ‘The Hangover’ to an animal quest film more along the lines of family classics such as ‘The Incredible Journey’ and ‘Homeward Bound’. The result is hit-and-miss, but when it works, it’s bark-out-loud funny.

    Comedy/producing titans Phil Lord and Chris Miller (who are behind the likes of Apple TV+ series ‘The Afterparty’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ already this year) brought outrageous violence and dark comedy to screens with February’s ‘Cocaine Bear’. ‘Strays’ definitely veers more towards lighthearted, raunchy comedy, but bears their winning touch.

    qTioQ1TZgET6ahRfPTzEY5

    What’s the story of ‘Strays’?

    Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    (L to R) Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    When Reggie (Will Ferrell), a naïve, relentlessly optimistic Border Terrier, is abandoned on the mean city streets by his lowlife owner, Doug (Will Forte), Reggie is certain that his beloved owner would never leave him on purpose.

    But once Reggie falls in with a fast-talking, foul-mouthed Boston Terrier named Bug (Jamie Foxx), a stray who loves his freedom and believes that owners are for suckers, Reggie finally realizes he was in a toxic relationship and begins to see Doug for the heartless sleazeball that he is.

    Determined to seek revenge, Reggie, Bug and Bug’s pals — Maggie (Isla Fisher), a smart Australian Shepherd who has been sidelined by her owner’s new puppy, and Hunter (Randall Park), an anxious Great Dane who’s stressed out by his work as an emotional support animal — together hatch a plan and embark on an epic adventure to help Reggie find his way home… And make Doug pay by biting off the appendage he loves the most (it’s not his foot).

    iWLdYELD

    Who else is in ‘Strays’?

    ‘Strays’ boasts a cast that either voices dogs (or other creatures) objects or plays human characters in the story including Josh Gad, Harvey Guillén, Rob Riggle, Brett Gelman, Jamie Demetriou and Sofia Vergara.

    Is ‘Strays’ a good dog?

    Director Josh Greenbaum on the set of 'Strays.'
    Director Josh Greenbaum on the set of ‘Strays.’

    Directed by Josh Greenbaum, who brought us 2021’s sublimely silly ‘Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar’, ‘Strays’ is written by Dan Perrault, best known for ‘American Vandal’ and ‘Players’ on TV.

    If you ever wanted to see ‘Saturday Night Live’ veteran Will Forte –– more normally associated with amiable weirdoes –– playing one of the worst dog owners to appear on screens, then this is the movie you’ve been waiting for. Yet Forte’s Doug, a weed-smoking, porn-obsessed loser who begrudgingly goes along with the idea when his girlfriend adopts adorable terrier Reggie (voiced by Will Ferrell), is not the star of this movie, Reggie is.

    Along, that is, with the new friends he makes when Doug abandons him. Foxx’s Bug is a streetwise pup with an ego bigger than his frame, but who makes for a good mentor to Reggie, who has only ever known life with humans.

    Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    (L to R) Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    The pooch pals –– also including Randall Park’s Hunter, a former police dog trainee who now works as a therapy dog at a hospice (and keeps a cone of shame on permanently for his own insecurity issues) and Isla Fisher’s Maggie, blessed with an amazing nose and a crush on Hunter –– are the highlight of the movie, a compelling blend of well-trained real animals with CG mouth manipulation.

    While they don’t all enjoy the same character development as Reggie or Bug, they’re an appealing, funny foursome and their adventures offer a lot of entertainment. With experienced performers bringing character as well as laughs to the roles, this features such memorable moments as the leads encountering Labrador Gus (voiced by Josh Gad), a hilarious take on the noble narrator dog we’ve met in movies including ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ and ‘Racing in the Rain’, and who is harboring a very dark secret.

    Plus, all of Reggie’s interactions with Doug are good for a laugh, even as dog owners (and anyone who just loves animals in general) will loathe his living guts.

    It moves along at a swift pace, never outstays its welcome and makes you care about our furry foursome in ways you don’t expect at the start. Oh, and we’re fairly certain that this is the only movie you’ll see this year that features Sofia Vergara as the voice of Delilah, a couch that Bug enjoys having sex with.

    Related Article: Director Josh Greenbaum Talks ‘Strays’ Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

    Are there any fleas on this one?

    Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    (L to R) Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    Not everything about the movie works; it does indulge in some first-base dog and other humor. We’ve seen a hundred variations on the age-old dog vs. mailman scenario and one small tweak aside (one plays into how Reggie makes it home), the movie doesn’t really find a fresh take.

    There are also scenes such as the canines discovering a patch of mushrooms in a forest and gobbling them down, only to go on a wild drug trip. A few moments work well (reality shifting to show Hunter as a sock puppet with human hands), but otherwise it’s the sort of gag that has been done many, many times. Ditto overly macho police dog Rolf (Rob Riggle), whose best use is Maggie calling him “Adolf” to his bemused reaction.

    And there are times when the reveling in poop, pee and eating disgusting things jokes stretches a little too thin, but if you were already on board with the movie, you know what you’re in for.

    Yet there are so many inventive uses of the dogs’ worldview (fireworks at a county fair serve as the setting for a war movie spoof for our spooked hounds who look to escape) that the balance of great jokes to clunkers is heavily on the positive side.

    It was about time that the dog movie got the full-on spoof comedy treatment, and ‘Strays’ works to bring the heart and well as the gross-out gags.

    ‘Strays’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.

    A scene from 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    A scene from ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Strays’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Strays’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Will Ferrell Movies On Amazon

  • ‘Strays’ Interview: Director Josh Greenbaum

    pFMqTaRi

    Opening in theaters on August 18th is the new comedy ‘Strays,’ which was directed by Josh Greenbaum (‘Barb & Star Go To Vista Del Mar’).

    What is the plot of ‘Strays’?

    When a gullible Border Terrier named Reggie (Will Ferrell) is abandoned on the streets by his selfish and ruthless owner Doug (Will Forte), an animal-hating drug addict who never wanted him, he teams up with other strays including a street-wise Boston Terrier named Bug (Jamie Foxx), an Australian Shepherd named Maggie (Isla Fisher), and a therapy Great Dane named Hunter (Randall Park) to get revenge on Doug.

    qTioQ1TZgET6ahRfPTzEY5

    Who is in the cast of ‘Strays’?

    • Will Ferrell as the voice of Reggie
    • Jamie Foxx as the voice of Bug
    • Will Forte as Doug
    • Isla Fisher as the voice of Maggie
    • Randall Park as the voice of Hunter
    • Josh Gad as the voice of Gus
    • Harvey Guillén as the voice of Shitstain
    • Rob Riggle as the voice of Rolf
    • Brett Gelman as Willy
    • Sofía Vergara as the voice of Deliliah the Couch
    • Dennis Quaid as himself

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with director Josh Greenbaum about his work on ‘Strays,’ making a hard R-rated version of ‘Homeward Bound,’ his first reaction to the screenplay, the challenges of directing an all dog cast, working with Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, and their characters onscreen chemistry.

    'Strays' director Josh Greenbaum.
    ‘Strays’ director Josh Greenbaum.

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

    Moviefone: To begin with, is it fair to say that this movie is a comedic hard R-rated version of ‘Homeward Bound,’ and what was your first reaction to Dan Perrault’s screenplay?

    Josh Greenbaum: I think so. I think that’s totally fair. Well, when I first saw the log line, which was, as you can imagine, absurd. It was a little dog, Reggie, who gets abandoned by his mean owner Doug, meets some strays, and then wants to get revenge by biting Doug’s most beloved body part off. I thought, “This sounds amazing. But it sounds a little insane, which I love.” But to be honest, I wondered, “Oh, is it just going to be a dog spoof movie,” to your question of is it just an R-rated ‘Homeward Bound.’ I think it delivered on what I needed and wanted from that of, “Okay, we do subvert the genre and have our fun in moments.” But what really jumped out at me was, “This actually is a fully formed script on its own,” and in a way, made me think of, certainly, wonderful movies like ‘40 Year Old Virgin,’ ‘Bridesmaids’ and ‘Superbad,’ but also ‘Stand By Me,’ and I thought about ‘Breaking Away,’ these films about four friends who go on a journey, and grow, and are underdogs. So, in a way, I think I was always searching for that film, and weirdly it came across my desk in the form of an R-rated dog movie. So, that I think is when I finally hooked in and said, “Oh, this movie’s funny, outrageous and does subvert the dog genre and brings it into the adult world.” But I just love that it actually had heart and functioned on its own as its own story.

    Director Josh Greenbaum on the set of 'Strays.'
    Director Josh Greenbaum on the set of ‘Strays.’

    Related Article: ‘Oppenheimer’, ‘The Exorcist’ and More Feature in Universal Pictures’ CinemaCon Presentation

    MF: Can you talk about the challenges of directing an all dog cast and the VFX you had to utilize to ensure their safety?

    JG: First of all, one of the things I stated when I came on board to direct was I would really like to utilize real dogs as much as possible, mostly because I wanted it to feel really real, I think, for adult audiences to enjoy this. I’ve had dogs my whole life. I live with dogs. I own two dogs now, one of whom I adopted from the movie, who was little puppy Reggie, now lives with us, and I have “Will Ferrell” running around my house. So, I wanted it to feel really grounded and the more it was the more it felt like it was right for adult audiences. I think if it was overly anthropomorphized or overly CG with big expressions, it works with children, but not for adults. I think that I pull out and pull back when I see that kind of work done. So, we only really leaned on the incredible CG and visual effects, obviously, to have them talk. We were unsuccessful training the dogs to talk. But to get them talking, occasionally we would add a little extra emotion here and there. But again, I tried to get the emotion out of the performance of the dog on set. If I needed a dog confused, I wouldn’t have it furrow its brow. I’d have it cock its head sideways the way dogs do. Then, of course, anytime it was anything remotely unsafe for a dog to do, we would go to a full CG dog. So, we have, as an example, a sequence, not giving too much away, but it’s in our trailers, where an eagle comes into the story and you don’t obviously want to mix small dogs with birds of prey. So, that becomes an obvious choice to go to a full CG dog.

    Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in 'Strays,' directed by Josh Greenbaum.
    (L to R) Bug (Jamie Foxx) and Reggie (Will Ferrell) in ‘Strays,’ directed by Josh Greenbaum.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about Bug and Reggie’s friendship and creating that relationship in the recording studio with Jamie Foxx and Will Ferrell?

    JG: I mean, at its core, I think this film, it’s about a few things. It’s certainly about being in a toxic, unhealthy relationship with someone and getting out of it, and how your friends help you through that and find your own sense of self-worth again. I think at the center of that is this relationship between Bug and Reggie. So, casting Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, and having them in the voiceover booth working together was just, for me, just magic to watch. They played off of each other so well. They’ve never been in a film together! This is really their first time, and you can feel their chemistry instantly. I mean, both in the film, but I remember being in that voiceover booth and watching these two guys hit the ball back and forth, and it was just a joy to watch. But, yeah, it’s a very sweet relationship. They have differing life philosophies. One is overly optimistic and believes you can trust everyone and put your love in everything, which there’s some validity to that. The other one, I think, has been burned and says, “No, don’t do that. You should protect yourself, close down, don’t trust anyone. Just look after yourself.” For me, that richness, of a thematic conversation to anchor a film on is great. Even though it’s an outrageous, really funny, really fun time of a movie, there’s something really palpable, emotional, and sweet at the center with these two characters. Of course, there’s no one better than Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx to bring that to life. So, I felt very lucky to have them as my two leads of this movie.

    Director Josh Greenbaum with Reggie on the set of 'Strays.'
    Director Josh Greenbaum with Reggie on the set of ‘Strays.’

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Strays’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Strays’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Will Ferrell Movies On Amazon