Tag: jon-watts

  • ‘Spider-Man’ Shooting Paused after Tom Holland Injury

    Tom Holland arrives on the red carpet of The 90th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Sunday, March 4, 2018. Credit/Provider: Phil McCarten / A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: A.M.P.A.S.
    Tom Holland arrives on the red carpet of The 90th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Sunday, March 4, 2018. Credit/Provider: Phil McCarten / A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: A.M.P.A.S.

    Preview:

    • Tom Holland has suffered a mild injury on the ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ set.
    • He had a fall while performing a stunt.
    • The movie’s release date is not affected.

    It’s the sort of incident to generate a “Web-Slinging Menace Comes To A Sticky End” headlines on the front page of the Daily Bugle and for J. Jonah Jameson to hope the “vigilante” had some sense knocked into him.

    But yes, Spidey, AKA Peter Parker, or rather Tom Holland, the actor who plays him in the MCU, has suffered a mild concussion after a stunt went wrong on the Pinewood, England set of new outing ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’.

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    According to Deadline’s reporting on the accident, Holland was performing a stunt and had a fall. He was taken to a local hospital and examined but not admitted, with instructions to rest and recuperate.

    Since the movie’s shooting schedule included a lot with Holland (naturally), director Destin Daniel Cretton and the Marvel team have opted to shut down shooting for a week to let the actor get better.

    Related Article: ‘Severance’s Tramell Tillman Added to ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’s Cast

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day') at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.
    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’) at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.

    Given that ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Holland’s Peter–– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    Who else will appear in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel's 'The Punisher.' Photo: Netflix.
    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel’s ‘The Punisher.’ Photo: Netflix.

    Even with Peter’s changed situation, the likes of MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) are still likely to return.

    Yet with ‘Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink’s casting earlier this year, that throws an interesting wrinkle in –– what if the plan is for MJ and Ned to have smaller roles while a new supporting cast rises to importance in Peter’s life?

    Sink’s role being kept under wraps, and the studio will look to have it that way as long as possible.

    Elsewhere, ‘The Bear’s Liza Colón-Zayas has also scored a role in the movie, but her character is also a mystery for now.

    Jon Bernthal will be showing up as Frank Castle/The Punisher, after most recently being seen in ‘Daredevil: Born Again’.

    Mark Ruffalo is back as the Hulk –– we’d guess in his Smart Hulk persona, which blends Bruce Banner with the Big Green Guy.

    Finally, Michael Mando, the ‘Better Call Saul’ actor who cropped up in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ as Mac Gargan, the civilian version of Spidey villain Scorpion is also back, so he’ll presumably be causing problems.

    When will ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ be in theaters?

    While you might think a production pause could have a knock-on effect to the movie’s release, we’re told that’s not the case and it’s on track to still arrive on July 31st, 2026.

    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day') at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.
    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’) at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.

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  • Tramell Tillman Joins ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’

    Tramell Tillman plays Captain Bledsoe in 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' from Paramount Pictures and Skydance. Photo: Paramount Pictures.
    Tramell Tillman plays Captain Bledsoe in ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ from Paramount Pictures and Skydance. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Tramell Tillman has joined ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’.
    • Tom Holland is back as Peter Parker/Spider-Man.
    • Destin Daniel Cretton is in the director’s chair.

    Filming is already under way for ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, the latest web-slinging adventure for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker.

    But the movie is not done adding cast members, as Variety has learned that ‘Severance’ actor Tramell Tillman is now aboard.

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    In keeping with much of the other new casting (more on that below), we don’t yet know what role Tillman will be playing –– whether it’ll be a Marvel character, someone new, or the usual MCU spin on someone from the comics.

    Related Story: Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk the Latest Addition to ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day') at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.
    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’) at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.

    Given that ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Holland’s Peter–– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    And ‘Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ director Destin Daniel Cretton is calling the shots for this one.

    Who else will appear in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel's 'The Punisher.' Photo: Netflix.
    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel’s ‘The Punisher.’ Photo: Netflix.

    Even with Peter’s changed situation, the likes of MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) are still likely to return.

    Yet with ‘Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink’s casting earlier this year, that throws an interesting wrinkle in –– what if the plan is for MJ and Ned to have smaller roles while a new supporting cast rises to importance in Peter’s life?

    Sink’s role being kept under wraps, and the studio will look to have it that way as long as possible.

    Elsewhere, ‘The Bear’s Liza Colón-Zayas has also scored a role in the movie, but her character is also a mystery for now.

    Jon Bernthal will be showing up as Frank Castle/The Punisher, after most recently being seen in ‘Daredevil: Born Again’.

    Mark Ruffalo is back as the Hulk –– we’d guess in his Smart Hulk persona, which blends Bruce Banner with the Big Green Guy.

    Finally, Michael Mando, the ‘Better Call Saul’ actor who cropped up in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ as Mac Gargan, the civilian version of Spidey villain Scorpion is also back, so he’ll presumably be causing problems.

    When will ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ be in theaters?

    With cameras now rolling, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ will swing into theaters on July 31st, 2026.

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

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  • ‘Final Destination 7’ in the Works at New Line

    (L to R) Teo Briones as “Charlie”, Andrew Tinpo Lee as “Marty”, Kaitlyn Santa Juana as “Stefanie”, April Amber Telek as “Aunt Brenda”, Alex Zahara as “Uncle Howard”, Richard Harmon as “Erik”, Anna Lore as “Julia”, Owen Patrick Joyner as “Bobby” in New Line Cinema’s “Final Destination Bloodlines,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Teo Briones as “Charlie”, Andrew Tinpo Lee as “Marty”, Kaitlyn Santa Juana as “Stefanie”, April Amber Telek as “Aunt Brenda”, Alex Zahara as “Uncle Howard”, Richard Harmon as “Erik”, Anna Lore as “Julia”, Owen Patrick Joyner as “Bobby” in New Line Cinema’s “Final Destination Bloodlines,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • A new entry in the ‘Final Destination’ franchise is in the works.
    • Lori Evans Taylor is aboard to write the script.
    • The exact story is a mystery for now.

    Death is good for business –– at least in New Line’s eyes.

    The company, which has been putting the ‘Final Destination’ horror franchise into theaters for years now, has seen success with the latest, ‘Final Destination Bloodlines’, which opened this past May and has earned $285 million worldwide.

    That was the first movie to release in the series in 14 years, and New Line isn’t waiting so long again, hiring ‘Bloodlines’ co-writer Lori Evans Taylor to start work on a seventh instalment.

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    Whatever it ends up being about (more on that below), the new movie will reunite Craig Perry, Sheila Hanahan Taylor, Jon Watts, Dianne McGunigle and Toby Emmerich to produce, but there’s no word yet on whether ‘Bloodlines’ directing duo Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein will similarly return.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Final Destination: Bloodlines’

    What was the story of ‘Final Destination Bloodlines’?

    New Line Cinema’s 'Final Destination Bloodlines,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    New Line Cinema’s ‘Final Destination Bloodlines,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Written by Taylor and recent ‘Scream’ veteran Guy Busick with story input from ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy director Watts, ‘Bloodlines’ saw a young college student plagued by a recurring nightmare of a calamity that causes mass fatalities.

    But beyond even the usual panic to avoid a seemingly certain fate, she discovers that her entire family is marked for death and only one estranged relative may know how to prevent that from happening.

    What could the story for ‘Final Destination 7’ be?

    Brec Bassinger as “Iris” in New Line Cinema’s 'Final Destination Bloodlines,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    Brec Bassinger as “Iris” in New Line Cinema’s ‘Final Destination Bloodlines,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    That’s the big question at this point, but ‘Bloodlines’ demonstrated real flexibility in the franchise. So it could go in almost any direction beyond the basic concept.

    As producer Perry told Deadline about the most recent entry:

    “That’s one of the things that Jon Watts, by bringing in the idea of starting in the ’60s and jumping forward 50 years, I think has liberated us creatively to be able to go to a lot of different places in time and to make connections that we wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise. I think that expansion, that sort of satellite view of the plan, I think is going to hopefully allow us an opportunity in the future to have even more interesting and creative deaths for the fans to enjoy.”

    And here he is on the franchise as a whole:

    “That’s why this franchise is weirdly evergreen because we don’t have necessarily continuing characters, so you can jump around. And the whole point of it is that it’s relatable, they’re in environments and situations that you might find yourself in.”

    When will ‘Final Destination 7’ be in theaters?

    There is no official date for the new movie yet, but we predict New Line will look to have this one in theaters before too long, so 2027 isn’t out of the question.

    Kaitlyn Santa Juana as “Stefanie” in New Line Cinema’s 'Final Destination Bloodlines,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    Kaitlyn Santa Juana as “Stefanie” in New Line Cinema’s ‘Final Destination Bloodlines,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eric Milner. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    List of ‘Final Destination Movies:

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  • Mark Ruffalo’s The Hulk Joins New ‘Spider-Man’ Movie

    (Left) Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner / Smart Hulk in Disney+'s 'She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.' (Right) Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home.' Photo: Marvel Studios.
    (Left) Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner / Smart Hulk in Disney+’s ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.’ (Right) Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home.’ Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Preview:

    • Mark Ruffalo is aboard ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’.
    • Destin Daniel Cretton is directing.
    • Tom Holland is returning to star as the titular web-crawler.

    Looks like Peter Parker has another patriarchal figure headed his way.

    Following the likes of Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark and Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury offering the young hero guidance, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that Mark Ruffalo will show up as Bruce Banner/The Hulk in fourth Sony/Marvel outing ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, which has Destin Daniel Cretton directing.

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    How the Hulk fits into the story remains to be seen –– with the likes of Jon Bernthal’s Punisher around, Peter will likely need some help. And who knows whether there will be some conflict between Peter and Bruce themselves before everything is resolved?

    Related Article: Jon Bernthal to Reprise The Punisher for ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day') at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.
    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’) at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.

    Given that ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Peter Parker –– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    Who else will appear in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in 'Stranger Things'. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in ‘Stranger Things’. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    Even with the spell affecting Peter, MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) are still likely to return.

    Yet with ‘Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink’s casting earlier this year, that throws an interesting wrinkle in –– what if the plan is for MJ and Ned to have smaller roles while a new supporting cast rises to importance in Peter’s life?

    Sink’s role being kept under wraps, and the studios will look to have it that way as long as possible.

    Elsewhere, ‘The Bear’s Liza Colón-Zayas has also scored a role in the movie, but her character is also a mystery for now.

    And thanks to the Reporter’s story, we also know that Michael Mando, the ‘Better Call Saul’ actor who cropped up in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ as Mac Gargan, the civilian version of Spidey villain Scorpion, so he’ll also be causing problems.

    Finally, we got our first proper look at Holland in his new Spidey suit –– obligatory joke here about it being an official studio video and not a leak from the actor himself…

     

    When will ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ be in theaters?

    With cameras now rolling. ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ will swing into theaters on July 31st, 2026.

    Thanks to some recent release date shuffles, the movie will be the next MCU entry, ahead of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’, which is now scheduled for December 19th, 2026.

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Movies and TV Shows Featuring Spider-Man Characters:

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  • Jon Bernthal’s Punisher to Appear in New ‘Spider-Man’ Movie

    (Left) Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. Photo: Marvel Studios. (Right) Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel's 'The Punisher.' Photo: Netflix.
    (Left) Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. Photo: Marvel Studios. (Right) Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel’s ‘The Punisher.’ Photo: Netflix.

    Preview:

    • Jon Bernthal is boarding ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’.
    • Destin Daniel Cretton is directing.
    • Tom Holland is returning to star as the titular web-crawler.

    Is Spider-Man about to suffer some punishment?

    We’ll have to wait and see what this latest casting story for ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ means, but The Hollywood Reporter has now confirmed what John Rocha and his Hot Mic podcast learned a while ago –– Jon Bernthal’s Punisher is headed to movie screens for the next Spidey outing.

    The new film, which sees ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ director Destin Daniel Cretton inheriting the Spider-mantle from Jon Watts (who has been off doing other projects), will see Tom Holland back as Peter Parker/Spider-Man following three of the character’s own movies and a sprinkling of appearances elsewhere.

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    This casting is a happy full circle moment for Holland and Bernthal; the duo were working on the 2017 movie Pilgrimage when preparing to audition for their Marvel roles, and helped each other with their audition tapes.

    Related Article: Jon Bernthal’s The Punisher to Feature in New Marvel TV Special

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day') at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.
    Destin Daniel Cretton (director, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’) at CinemaCon 2025 for Sony Pictures at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on March 31, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images.

    Given that ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Peter Parker –– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    Here’s what Holland said to The Hollywood Reporter about the movie:

    “The first few meetings were about, ‘Why would we do this again?’ And I think we found the reason why.”

    What is that reason? It’s only known to those involved with the movie right now and soon to anyone who talks to Tom Holland if his talent for divulging spoilers accidentally continues to hold.

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    Who else will appear in ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’?

    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in 'Stranger Things'. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in ‘Stranger Things’. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    Even with the spell affecting Peter, MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) are still likely to return.

    Yet with ‘Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink’s casting earlier this year, that throws an interesting wrinkle in –– what if the plan is for MJ and Ned to have smaller roles while a new supporting cast rises to importance in Peter’s life?

    Sink’s role is a mystery, one that Marvel and Sony will look to keep that way as long as possible.

    But speculation has already begun, with a few potentials floating out there.

    Sink could be playing Jean Grey, the hugely powerful mutant character from the ‘X-Men’ comics who has enjoyed a variety of storylines in the pages and on screens, including the memorable “Dark Phoenix” arc.

    The X-Men, are, of course, the next big group for Marvel to incorporate into the MCU and we’ve already seen examples of them in the dimension-spanning likes of ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,’ ‘The Marvels’ and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ though none have been pointed up as the official versions of the characters to make the leap to Earth-616.

    Using the new ‘Spider-Man’ movie to introduce one or more characters could work, as the Marvel team has a history of seeding new recruits in other movies.

    But if the focus is more on Peter’s story, there’s a chance that Sink might be Gwen Stacey, another famous love interest for our hero, who has appeared in other Spider-stories. Another option is Felicia Hardy, AKA Black Cat.

    And, of course, Sink’s red hair could make her a natural fit for classic Peter partner Mary Jane Watson, but with Zendaya’s MJ (albeit not using the same name) filling that role, it seems unlikely.

    Elsewhere, ‘The Bear’s Liza Colón-Zayas has also scored a role in the movie, but her character is a mystery for now.

    The Punisher: a quick history

    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel Television's 'Daredevil' on Disney+. Photo: Giovanni Rufino. © 2025 Marvel.
    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel Television’s ‘Daredevil’ on Disney+. Photo: Giovanni Rufino. © 2025 Marvel.

    Bernthal has been the small-screen version of Marvel’s Frank Castle –– AKA vigilante character The Punisher –– since he showed up on the Netflix version of ‘Daredevil’ back in 2016.

    Since then, he’s appeared in his own eponymous spin-off show, which ran on the streaming service between 2017 and 2019, then came a break until he was brought back in to the fold for this year’s Disney+ continuation series ‘Daredevil: Born Again.’

    Castle will be back in Season 2 of ‘Born Again’ and there is also a Marvel “Special Episode” (a TV movie along the lines of ‘Werewolf by Night’) on the way, co-written by Bernthal and filmmaker Reinaldo Marcus Green, with the latter directing the one-off.

    The story is under wraps for now, here’s what Brad Winderbaum, head of Marvel Television, told EW about it:

    “It’s like a shotgun blast of a story, but also has all the pathos and emotion that you want out of a Frank Castle story. It’s so exciting.”

    A bigger question for The Punisher in the world of Spider-Man is how his grittier, more violent tone will fit with the family friendlier feel of Spidey and co.

    When will ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ be in theaters?

    ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ will swing into theaters on July 31st, 2026.

    Thanks to some recent release date shuffles, the movie will be the next MCU entry to follow ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’, which lands on July 25th.

    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel's 'The Punisher.' Photo: Netflix.
    Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle in Marvel’s ‘The Punisher.’ Photo: Netflix.

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  • Sadie Sink Lands Major Role in ‘Spider-Man 4’

    (Left) Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in 'Stranger Things'. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022. (Right) Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    (Left) Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in ‘Stranger Things’. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022. (Right) Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Preview:

    • ‘Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink has joined ‘Spider-Man 4.’
    • Her role is a mystery for now.
    • Tom Holland is returning to star as the titular web-crawler.

    While we’ve been waiting for a while for fresh news about the next ‘Spider-Man’ movie, it’s clearly starting to crank into gear, as the first new piece of casting news has dropped for ‘Spider-Man 4‘.

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    It does not come, however, from either Disney, Marvel or Sony which tend to be tight-lipped when it comes to casting announcements for their big superhero projects, but instead from Deadline’s sources, which has heard that ‘Stranger Things’ star Sadie Sink will be joining the fourth outing of everyone’s friendly neighborhood web-slinger.

    The new film, which sees ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ director Destin Daniel Cretton inheriting the Spider-mantle from Jon Watts (who has been off doing other projects, including Apple’s ‘Wolfs’ and the ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ series for Lucasfilm), really only has one person truly confirmed to appear: Tom Holland, who has player Peter Parker/Spider-Man for three of the character’s own movies and a sprinkling of appearances elsewhere.

    With Holland currently at work on Christopher Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of ‘The Odyssey’ (along with a starry ensemble big enough to fill a small theater), shooting for the next Spidey movie should kick off this year once the actor’s schedule is worked out.

    Related Article: Next ‘Spider-Man’ Movie Starring Tom Holland to Arrive in July 2026

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man 4’?

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home.' Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home.’ Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Given that ‘No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker –– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    Here’s what Holland said to The Hollywood Reporter about the movie:
    “The first few meetings were about, ‘Why would we do this again?’ And I think we found the reason why.”

    What is that reason? It’s only known to those involved with the movie right now and soon to anyone who talks to Tom Holland if his talent for divulging spoilers accidentally continues to hold.

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    Holland also told Jimmy Fallon that the movie will be shooting this coming summer. Here’s what he had to say:

    “Next summer, we start shooting. Everything’s good to go. We’re nearly there. “The project is super exciting.”

    Who will appear in the new ‘Spider-Man’ movie?

    Zendaya in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming.' Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Zendaya in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming.’ Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Though the game was changed considerably in ‘No Way Home’, we can’t imagine that the franchise would continue without Zendaya as MJ (Peter’s big love interest) and Jacob Batalon as Ned (his best friend). Surely a way will be found to have them remember him?

    Yet Sink’s casting throws an interesting wrinkle in –– what if the plan is for MJ and Ned to have smaller roles while a new supporting cast rises to importance in Peter’s life, given the fallout of the mind-wiping spell.

    Who will Sadie Sink play in ‘Spider-Man 4’?

    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in 'Stranger Things'. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
    Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in ‘Stranger Things’. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.

    As you might expect at this point, Sink’s role is a mystery, one that Marvel and Sony will look to keep that way as long as possible (executives are probably already looking for a spell to wipe Holland’s mind of plot details to help that).

    But speculation has already begun, with a few potentials floating out there.

    Deadline’s story mentions the theory that Sink could be playing Jean Grey, the hugely powerful mutant character from the ‘X-Men’ comics who has enjoyed a variety of storylines in the pages and on screens, including the memorable “Dark Phoenix” arc.

    The X-Men, are, of course, the next big group for Marvel to incorporate into the MCU and we’ve already seen examples of them in the dimension-spanning likes of ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,’ ‘The Marvels’ and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ though none have been pointed up as the official versions of the characters to make the leap to Earth-616.

    Using the ‘Spider-Man’ movie to introduce one or more characters could work, as the Marvel team has a history of seeding new recruits in other movies.

    But if the focus is more on Peter’s story, there’s a chance that Sink might be Gwen Stacey, another famous love interest for our hero, who has appeared in other Spider-stories. Another option is Felicia Hardy, AKA Black Cat.
    And, of course, Sink’s red hair could make her a natural fit for classic Peter partner Mary Jane Watson, but with Zendaya’s MJ (albeit not using the same name) filling that role, it seems unlikely.

    Where else can we see Sadie Sink?

    (L to R) Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Sadie Sink in 'O'dessa'. Photo: Nikola Predovic, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Sadie Sink in ‘O’dessa’. Photo: Nikola Predovic, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

    Sink, of course, saw her career skyrocket after landing the role of Max Mayfield in Netflix monster hit ‘Stranger Things.’

    The fifth and final season is headed our way later this year.

    Here’s what co-creator and co-showrunner Ross Duffer said about post-production process at this year’s SCAD TVfest:

    “We’re focused on visual effects sequences right now, which started back in January. It’s going well. We’re actually ahead of schedule, which is rare for us. I will say that it is coming this year. We’re definitely on target.”

    In addition to that, Sink has the lead in post-apocalyptic musical drama ‘O’Dessa’ due in theaters on March 20th.

    And before she starts work on ‘Spider-Man 4,’ she’ll be treading the boards on Broadway in the play ‘John Proctor Is the Villain,’ which opens April 4th.

    When will the new ‘Spider-Man’ movie be in theaters?

    ‘Spider-Man 4’ (or whatever it ends up being titled –– we’d guess they may move away from the “home” branding of the previous three to potentially launch a new run of movies) will swing into theaters on July 31st, 2026.

    That date, perhaps not-so-coincidentally, puts it in between the two new ‘Avengers’ movies, ‘Doomsday’ and ‘Secret Wars,’ so the events of the first may (depending on when both it and the new ‘Spider-Man’ entry occur on the timeline) impact the events of this movie.

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Movies and TV Shows Featuring Spider-Man Characters:

    Buy ‘Spider-Man’ Movies on Amazon

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  • TV Review: ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’

    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Launching with its first two episodes on Disney+ Monday, December 2nd, ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is Lucasfilm’s latest attempt to spark success with a series set in the galaxy that George Lucas created.

    Here, ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy director Jon Watts and regular collaborator Christopher Ford have concocted a fun romp that sends a group of young characters on an adventure beyond the borders of their mundane suburban planet.

    Related Article: Jude Law Talks ‘Skeleton Crew’ and Joining the ‘Star Wars’ Universe

    Does ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ Launch Well?

    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Getting new ‘Star Wars’ TV series off the ground can be a dicey affair these days –– for every ‘Mandalorian,’ or ‘Andor,’ there’s a ‘Book of Boba Fett’ or ‘The Acolyte,’ which don’t enjoy the same level of impact or fan embrace.

    ‘Skeleton Crew’ benefits from charting its own course, being recognizably set in the universe of ‘Star Wars’ but also injecting plenty of its own personality. Focusing on younger characters in search of adventure –– one needs a power convertor for something but is far less whiny than the young Luke Skywalker –– brings a much-needed level of charm and infectious, youthful energy.

    Script and Direction

    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford co-wrote all eight episodes, with Myung Joh Wesner assisting on two. And that consistent tone and feel through the show means that ‘Skeleton Crew’ stays entertaining.

    The writers have crafted some appealing characters here, and also layered in more than one mystery without coming across as some frustrating puzzle box overpowering everything.

    Watts, who handles the first episode (and the last), has assembled a batch of heavy hitters to direct the various other episodes, including ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ duo Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, Bryce Dallas Howard (an old hand at ‘Star Wars’ TV at this point, ‘TwistersLee Isaac Chung, ‘Beef’ helmer Jake Schreier and ‘The Green Knight’s David Lowery.

    While only the first three episodes were given the press, the show has a style all of its own already, especially given the starting point on a colony world that has its own secrets, but whose appearance puts you in mind of movies such as ‘E.T.’ and, as previously referenced, ‘The Goonies.’

    Once things go off-world, the show still maintains a unique vibe, crammed full of pirates and other disreputable types as one of the first stops is a hive of scum and villainy (no, not that one, a space port with its own identity). And the first episode is nimbly edited by Andrew S. Eisen, who brings a sense of energy and helps define the tone of the show early on.

    Performances

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Jude Law might be the star name here, but the focus is also on the young performers, and they all acquit themselves well.

    Ravi Cabot-Conyers as Wim

    Wim is our initial anchor point, a young man who is struggling with future plans (as in, he’s not sure he has many, aside from a wistful dream of becoming a Jedi) and has an oft-absent father (played by Tunde Adebimpe’s kindly but busy widower) who, along with his nervier best friend Neel, is often getting into scrapes.

    Cabot-Conyers brings him to life in entertaining fashion, without ever coming across as being annoying.

    (L to R) Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) and Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers) with hoverbikes in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) and Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers) with hoverbikes in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Robert Timothy Smith as Neel

    Neel, Wim’s best friend, is an appealing, sweet character who resembles a young Max Rebo from ‘Return of the Jedi’ (but is reportedly his own species), and a bundle of nerves who is nevertheless loyal to Wim.

    Smith, playing the part with the help of some complex prosthetics and CG, is a superb sidekick and works well as a character.

    Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Fern

    Armstrong brings spirit and some sly humor to the tomboyish character of Fern, who loves nothing more than racing speeder bikes and pushing back against her officious mother (Kerry Condon).

    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Kyriana Kratter as KB

    Fern’s best friend, KB has her own technological secrets, but is also a great addition to the foursome. She’s careful and logical, but willing to go along with their schemes.

    Jude Law as Jod Na Nawood

    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Law comes across as a blend of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Han Solo, and while that might sound strange, it actually works here.

    He’s also something of a mystery, but never one that is frustrating –– and Law naturally has nuclear levels of charm, clearly reveling in the chance to cut loose and have fun.

    Other Notable Characters

    Vane (Marti Matulis) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Vane (Marti Matulis) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Though we can’t talk about many of the characters who show up even in these early episodes because of spoilers, there are some good supporting performances going on here, including some pirates and a wealth of other aliens.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is a worthy addition to the ranks of small-screen stories set in the galaxy far, far away. Watts and collaborators have created a lively, funny and adventurous series, that, while it takes a moment to get going, heads to some entertaining places with characters you’ll root for.

    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.

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    What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    • Jude Law as Jod Na Nawood
    • Ravi Cabot-Conyers as Wim
    • Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Fern
    • Kyriana Kratter as KB
    • Robert Timothy Smith as Neel
    • Tunde Adebimpe as Wendle
    • Kerry Condon as Fara
    • Nick Frost as the voice of SM 33
    • Jaleel White as Gunter
    • Fred Tatasciore as Brutus
    • Mike Estes as Pax
    • Dale Soules as Chaelt
    Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Other ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

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  • ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ Exclusive Interview: Jude Law

    Jude Law stars in 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+.
    Jude Law stars in ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+.

    Premiering on Disney+ December 3rd is the latest ‘Star Wars’ series entitled ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, which was created by director Jon Watts (‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’) and screenwriter Christopher Ford (‘Cop Car’).

    The series stars Jude Law (‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’), Ravi Cabot-Conyers (‘Encanto’), Ryan Kiera Armstrong (‘Black Widow’), Kyriana Kratter (‘The Healing Garden’), Robert Timothy Smith (‘Wolfs’), Kerry Condon (‘The Banshees of Inisherin’), and Nick Frost (‘Shaun of the Dead).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with Jude Law to talk about his work on ‘Skeleton Crew’, joining the ‘Star Wars’ universe, his character, influences he drew from, working with the cast of young actors, and collaborating with show creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford.

    Related Article: Actor Hayden Christensen Talks Disney+’s ‘Obi Wan Kenobi’

    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Moviefone: To begin with, what is it like as an actor to join the ‘Star Wars’ universe and did it meet your expectations?

    Jude Law: For me, personally, it was stepping into a very familiar world. I was one of the millions of kids in the late ’70s whose lives were changed when they were taken to the cinema by their parents to see the first film. So, I’ve always had a soft spot for it. I played it as a kid running around pew-pewing and collecting the figures and cards. So, it just felt very familiar actually. What really kind of lured me in was the curiosity of how they make these things and the different parameters or rules that apply for it to be or feel like an authentic ‘Star Wars’ show or film. I think, from that perspective, it absolutely lived up to expectation. The on-camera puppetry and animatronics and all of that was wonderful to experience.

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Without giving away any spoilers, what can you say about your character and the way you wanted to approach portraying him?

    JL: Well, when he was described to me, the character was clearly just full of potential and possibilities. He’s very mysterious, he’s different things to different people with different names, and he keeps you guessing right up to the end. The big question is are his intentions good or bad? That I don’t want to spoil, but the fun aspect was, because of this multifaceted sort of nature, I was able to touch on inspiration from characters throughout the canon. There were times for humor, times for drama, times for menace, and times for heroism. He really does touch on all of those, and it meant that it was very rewarding to play.

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: To follow up on what you just said, were there particular characters from the ‘Star Wars’ universe that were touchstones for you in creating this character?

    JL: Well, I felt like Han (Solo) and Lando (Calrissian) and just the world that those two mixed in was close to what Jod (Na Nawood) is experiencing. So, there’s a little bit of him inspired by them. I’d say that’s about it really. Otherwise, it was a case of taking tones as an inspiration.

    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Can you talk about working with the kids in the cast, and when you are working with young actors, do you have to adjust your performance at all? What did you learn from watching them work?

    JL: I certainly didn’t adjust anything. I mean, they approached it and appeared day one as very professional young actors. They knew what they were doing, and they were confident, and they were very able and well-prepared, and they took it seriously. Then they were kids, so they were also being silly and funny and laughing, making everyone laugh, and they brought a lovely sense of joy. I mean, every day felt kind of fun and special and as it should on a show like this. What was interesting and what we played into was that Jod doesn’t really understand what childhood is or who kids are. So, my role really was to also bring that element to the relationships. He’s kind of aghast that they don’t know how to look after themselves or that they get hungry, or they miss their parents and seemingly can’t fly ships or firing blasters or any of that. I enjoyed that dynamic. I thought there was a lot of humor in it and, if I’m honest, the way I saw it was it is a relationship that evolves over an adventure. So, we didn’t try to build some kind of relationship before we started. We just got on with it. Then, really, you are watching me and them and the characters getting to know each other. As the adventure evolves over months and months and months, we are learning about each other too.

    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Finally, what was it like working with Jon Watts and Christopher Ford and helping them execute their specific vision for this ‘Star Wars’ project?

    JL: Very specific vision. I mean, so much of the heavy lifting had been done in the script work and the concept. It was so clear and executed through the scripts, which were just rich and fun. They were great springboards to then perform from. The same goes for the guys. They were just very approachable. I came at them with so many questions. I have a process where I must understand where my character’s been born and what happened in their past, and they agreed that we could draw all that out so that we knew exactly and in fact, they drew on it. You’ll see towards the end, they kind of drew on some of the ideas we had about his childhood, and throughout they were just incredibly clear and passionate. I mean, it’s not an easy job also setting something up and then stepping back and letting other directors come in, especially directors of the pedigree that they got. But it was a very inclusive experience.

    SXAAx8HkXvEWGGAmRJ7yF1

    What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Other ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

     

  • Next ‘Spider-Man’ Movie Set for July 2026 Release

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home.' Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home.’ Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Preview:

    • The fourth, untitled MCU ‘Spider-Man’ movie lands in July 2026.
    • Tom Holland is starring.
    • Destin Daniel Cretton is in the director’s chair.

    With ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ gobbling up huge amounts of money back in 2021 (an even more impressive achievement given that audiences were still wary of movie theaters during the ongoing COVID pandemic), you knew that Sony and Marvel were not going to just give up on future installments of the web-slinging franchise, even if it represented the end of star Tom Holland’s then-current contact.

    He’s long since confirmed that he’s back for the next movie, while director Jon Watts, who handled ‘No Way Home’ and predecessors ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home,’ is not.

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    Watts has been moved on to other projects, but stepping in to replace him, as reported back in September, is ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten RingsDestin Daniel Cretton.

    And now, per Sony, we have news that the fourth film –– whose title we have yet to learn –– will be in theaters on July 24th, 2026.

    What’s the story of ‘Spider-Man 4’?

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Given that ‘No Way Home’ changed things in a huge way for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker –– as you’ll likely recall, it ended with a spell that wiped everyone’s memory of him so as to protect the people he loves –– the storyline going forward is naturally something of a mystery.

    “The first few meetings were about, ‘Why would we do this again?’ And I think we found the reason why,” Holland told the Reporter previously about the fourth movie. But that actual reason has yet to be divulged (and with Holland not currently doing press, we’ll have to wait until he does before any details emerge accidentally).

    We do at least know that Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who contributed to or wrote the previous three Spider-outings, are back on board for this one.

    Holland also recently told Jimmy Fallon that the movie will be shooting next summer.

    Here’s what he had to say:

    “Next summer, we start shooting. Everything’s good to go. We’re nearly there. “The project is super exciting.”

    That makes sense given the new release plan and will make it the second confirmed MCU release for 2026 after ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ in May.

    Related Article: ‘Shang-Chi’ Director Destin Daniel Cretton in Talks to Handle ‘Spider-Man 4’

    Who will appear in the new ‘Spider-Man’ movie?

    Zendaya in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming.' Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Zendaya in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming.’ Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Though the game was changed considerably in ‘No Way Home’, we can’t imagine that the franchise would continue without Zendaya as MJ (Peter’s big love interest) and Jacob Batalon as Ned (his best friend). Surely a way will be found to have them remember him?

    What movies will the new ‘Spider-Man’ film be up against?

    While the latest Spidey outing has its release date to itself, Holland may face competition –– from himself. He’s reportedly aboard the next Christopher Nolan film, which is scheduled to land on July 17th, 2026, so one week before the fourth ‘Spider-Man’ entry.

    Could we be looking at the next “Barbenheimer” with a Double Holland coincidence? Only time will tell…

    Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. Photo: Marvel Studios.
    Tom Holland in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

    Other Movies Featuring Spider-Man:

    Buy ‘Spider-Man’ Movies on Amazon

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  • Movie Review: ‘Wolfs’

    Brad Pitt and George Clooney in 'Wolfs'.
    (L to R) Brad Pitt and George Clooney in ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    Opening in theaters in limited release from September 20th ahead of a September 27th arrival on Apple’s TV+ service, ‘Wolfs’ is the latest attempt by the tech giant to lure in audiences with big names and healthy budgets, though seemingly –– given that one-week run in theaters –– more concerned about buzz (and subscribers) than box office.

    Still, the movie itself offers enough fun to make it a worthwhile effort, even if it seems a little too much in love with the star wattage of its two central famous faces.

    Related Article: Jon Watts’ George Clooney and Brad Pitt Caper ‘Wolfs’ is Spawning a Sequel

    Will ‘Wolfs’ Blow You Away?

    Brad Pitt and George Clooney in 'Wolfs'.
    (L to R) Brad Pitt and George Clooney in ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    Do you long to see George Clooney and Brad Pitt reunited on screen for the first time since –– no, not the ‘Ocean’s movies but actually the Coen brothers’ ‘Burn After Reading,’ which barely counts since they only occupy the same cinematic space for a very brief time?

    If you’re yearning to have two of the most famous movie stars Hollywood has to offer trading barbs, occasionally letting themselves look vulnerable but generally being just as cool as you expect, then Apple has the answer for you. And the giant tech corporation has kindly agreed to put in theaters for exactly a week before the whole affair shuffles off to its Apple TV+ service.

    That might sound sarcastic or cynical, but it’s hard not to see the ploy in the same light: agree to back ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy director Jon Watts’ new original crime caper, see him secure two giant stars then look for buzz over box office.

    Still, the film that was made does have enough going for it to warrant seeing it on the big screen, even if you must be quick. Just don’t go expecting a completely original tale, as what unspools is largely a fun version of stories we’ve seen before with a tweak here and there.

    Script and Direction

    Director Jon Watts, Brad Pitt and George Clooney on the set of 'Wolfs'.
    (L to R) Director Jon Watts, Brad Pitt and George Clooney on the set of ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    Watts has been sitting on the ‘Wolfs’ script for years, fully hoping that Clooney and Pitt might agree to star, since the roles very much feel written for them in ‘Ocean’s chatty mode. Of course, Spidey has gotten in the way for the last few years (albeit doing plenty for the filmmaker’s profile and bank balance), but the director has now broken free of Marvel’s grasp to get back to the sort of movie that launched his career, ‘Cop Car.’

    The ‘Wolfs’ script is light on its feet, mostly driven by the banter between Clooney and Pitt, though it does at times twist itself in knots trying to figure out certain situations. And there is also sometimes too much of a reliance on certain repetitive dialogue tricks, such as the duo overlapping each other or one saying a curse word, then the other saying the same thing when they discover what he’s looking at.

    It all adds up to the movie at times feeling exactly that, a movie –– while we don’t go to star-driven films such as this for gritty reality, it does jolt you out of the experience from time to time.

    And Watts knows how to direct both actors and action, New York shot in appealing tones as the characters make their way on their unexpected mission. One moment in particular –– no spoilers, but it involves a car and one of the characters is played in slow-mo for maximum impact.

    Performances

    (L to R) George Clooney and Brad Pitt in 'Wolfs'. Photo: Sony Pictures.
    (L to R) George Clooney and Brad Pitt in ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    Aside from Clooney and Pitt, almost everyone else is a cipher (and one particular actor should feel hard done by –– see below.)

    George Clooney as “Margaret’s Man”

    Neither of the stars’ characters are given names that we learn here; that pretty much comes with the job of mysterious, gruff fixer. Still, Clooney can knock this sort of role out of the park in his sleep and here he’s offered the chance to sideline the twinkly charm for a more circumspect character.

    Brad Pitt as “Pam’s Man”

    Both Pitt and Clooney are channeling their real-life friendship here, albeit, submerging under layers of characters who don’t want to work together. Pitt, like his co-star, is on good form, underplaying it and keeping his cool. There are a few funny grace notes to the pair aging, such as cracking backs or downing Advil, and it all adds to the layers of the two fixers.

    Austin Abrams as “Kid”

    Yes, names really are not a thing in this movie (with a couple of exceptions), but Abrams doesn’t need one to make an impact. He’s a fine pick to play off of the two leads, his nervy, slightly manic energy (since his character is in the midst of a drug trip/comedown during the story) works well against their measured stoicism and he really makes the part work.

    Amy Ryan as Margaret

    Ryan is the first person we meet in the film, and though she only makes a brief appearance as a panicked district attorney who initially summons Clooney’s character for help when she thinks she has a dead body in her room after a hookup gone awry, she does a lot with a little.

    Supporting cast

    A few other roles pop –– ‘Never Have I Ever’s Poorna Jagannathan is dry and funny as June, the doctor to whom the central pair take the kid, while Zlatko Burić dutifully portrays the gangster Dimitri with whom our heroes interact during the movie.

    Still, there is one giant crime in the movie (and we don’t mean murder or drugs), and that’s the utter waste of the brilliant Richard Kind, who while he’s great as always, has maybe a couple of lines of dialogue and a minute or two of screen time.

    Final Thoughts

    Brad Pitt and George Clooney in 'Wolfs'.
    (L to R) Brad Pitt and George Clooney in ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    ‘Wolfs’ gets by on star power for good and ill, slowly turning the dial on the central characters, peeling away some layers and adding in some moral questions, which is surely why Clooney and Pitt took the gig beyond the chance to team back up again on screen.

    It doesn’t totally succeed, but it’s better than your average crime caper.

    ‘Wolfs’ receives 7 out of 10 stars.

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    What’s the plot of ‘Wolfs’?

    ‘Wolfs’ sees George Clooney as a professional fixer hired to cover up a high-profile crime. But when a second fixer (Brad Pitt) shows up and the two “lone wolves” are forced to work together, they find their night spiraling out of control in ways that neither one of them expected.

    Who stars in ‘Wolfs’?

    • George Clooney as Jack
    • Brad Pitt as Nick
    • Amy Ryan as Margaret
    • Austin Abrams as Kid
    • Poorna Jagannathan as June
    • Zlatko Burić as Dimitri
    • Richard Kind as Kid’s dad
    (L to R) George Clooney and Brad Pitt in 'Wolfs'. Photo: Sony Pictures.
    (L to R) George Clooney and Brad Pitt in ‘Wolfs’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

    Other George Clooney and Brad Pitt Movies:

    Buy George Clooney Movies on Amazon

    Buy Brad Pitt Movies on Amazon

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