Moviefone Editorial

Tag: musical

  • Jeff Goldblum to Play ‘Wicked’s Wizard of Oz

    Jeff Goldblum as Grandmaster in Marvel Studios' 'Thor: Ragnarok.'
    Jeff Goldblum as Grandmaster in Marvel Studios’ ‘Thor: Ragnarok.’

    Here’s some wonderful news for fans of both ‘Wicked’ and quirksome actor Jeff Goldblum.

    The man who is known for his work on movies such as ‘The Fly’, ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Independence Day’ among many others, is bringing his talents to the two ‘Wicked’ movies that Jon M. Chu is conjuring up based on the highly successful Broadway stage show, itself adapted from Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel reimagining the 1947 movie ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

    Variety is reporting that Goldblum will be taking the role of the Wizard of Oz, who (spoiler alert if you haven’t seen the stage show, read the book or seen the movie is revealed to be Oscar Zoroaster Diggs, a very human conman who uses trickery and machinery to rule the city of Oz and control people.

    Maguire’s book, and the stage show created by writer Winnie Holzman and composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, takes place before and during the time Dorothy lands in Oz. The main focus is on young witches Galinda (who will go on to be known as Glinda the Good) and Elphaba, fated to be called the Wicked Witch of the West.

    Elphaba comes from a troubled home and, with her deep green complexion is treated as something of an outsider at Shiz University. Yet she forms an unlikely – and, initially, unwilling – friendship with Galinda, the most popular girl at the college.

    'Wicked' Broadway Musical Poster.
    ‘Wicked’ Broadway Musical Poster.

    Together, they chart very different journeys through the land of Oz, which is changing all around them. Animals, once sentient and important members of society, are reduced to basic creatures. The small-statured Munchkins are steadily being more oppressed.

    Galinda rises in popularity and political influence, but Elphaba, who speaks out against what is happening, is shunned and, when she shows her true magical powers, hated.

    Chu is directing the two movies – while one was planned originally, he and the creative team (which includes Holzman and Schwartz) have realized they need two to do the story justice. “We decided to give ourselves a bigger canvas and make not just one ‘Wicked’ movie but two!” Chu wrote in a statement as part of the announcement. “With more space, we can tell the story of ‘Wicked’ as it was meant to be told while bringing even more depth and surprise to the journeys for these beloved characters.”

    Ariana Grande is playing Glinda, while Cynthia Erivo is Elphaba. ‘Bridgerton’s Jonathan Bailey, meanwhile, will be Fieryo. The Big Man on campus at Shizz, he’s a party animal who prefers having a good time to thinking and gets engaged to Glinda. But his true feelings for Elphaba surface and he helps her to escape, ending up captured by the Wizard’s guards, and tortured. A spell Elphaba casts to try to save him instead — spoiler alert! — transforms him into the scarecrow we know from the movie.

    The two movies are set to be released at Christmas in 2024 and 2025.

    Jeff Goldblum as Dr. Ian Malcolm in director Steven Spielberg's 'Jurassic Park.'
    Jeff Goldblum as Dr. Ian Malcolm in director Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jurassic Park.’
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  • Zazie Beetz In Talks to Return For ‘Joker’ Sequel

    Zazie Beetz and Joaquin Phoenix in 2019's 'Joker.'
    (L to R) Zazie Beetz and Joaquin Phoenix in 2019’s ‘Joker.’

    With an official release date now on the books, the details for the ‘Joker’ sequel are starting to fall into place.

    And one of the best parts of the original movie seems set to return, as Zazie Beetz is in talks to reprise the role of Sophie Dumond in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux.’

    When we meet her in Todd Phillips’ 2018 film, Sophie is a struggling single mother who lives in the same grungy Gotham City apartment block as Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) and his mom. The pair share a whirlwind romance but – spoiler alert for those who haven’t seen the original movie – it turns out that the relationship was all in Arthur’s head.

    Regardless, we’re not sure that Sophie is really going to want to strike up a connection with an unstable man who sows chaos throughout Gotham City. And given that Lady Gaga is now aboard the sequel, playing someone who develops a close link to Arthur, that situation could be even more complicated.

    Gaga recently posted a teaser video confirming her casting in the sequel, and while it offered no real clues, speculation is rampant that’s she’ll be playing at least some version of Harley Quinn, the psychotherapist-turned-psychopathic girlfriend of the Joker.

    Harley, of course, exists across different stories in the DC Universe, between the current animated anarchist voiced by Kaley Cuoco and Margot Robbie’s movie version. Given that Phillips’ film is unconnected to the larger DCEU movie world, so he has free rein to create his own – if that’s what he’s truly doing.

    Joaquin Phoenix and Zazie Beetz in 2019's 'Joker.'
    (L to R) Joaquin Phoenix and Zazie Beetz in 2019’s ‘Joker.’

    Of course, there’s every chance that the writer/director will surprise us, as he found new things to say about Arthur and his Joker personality.

    Phillips had previously teased the new movie’s title by posting the cover for the script he wrote with ‘Joker’s Scott Silver. And the cameras should be cranking this December. No one knows what the plot is exactly yet, though Folie à Deux’ is a French reference for a medical term pertaining to a mental disorder which affects two or more people.

    The other big element we’re promised for the sequel is a musical one, which is perhaps partly explains Gaga’s presence.

    Beetz told The Hollywood Reporter that she firmly approves of the idea. “I actually think it makes wonderful sense. I wasn’t really surprised by that. Todd [Phillips] has always had a creative approach to the character. I love musicals, and I think of them as the characters are feeling and experiencing so much that they can only sing and dance about it, whether in sorrow or in joy,” she says.

    “And I can actually see that within myself as well because singing and dancing is quite a cathartic experience for me. I was going through a really, really difficult time at one point in my life, and I just started dancing and crying by myself,” Beetz continues. “And that was an expression that matched where I was at that moment. And so I can see Arthur, who is feeling and experiencing so much, dancing and singing about it. He’s the Joker, so I think it makes sense to me.”

    ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ is scheduled for theaters on October 4th, 2024.

    Zazie Beetz in 2019's 'Joker.'
    Zazie Beetz in 2019’s ‘Joker.’
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  • Movie Review: ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’

    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’
    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ opens in theaters on May 27th. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios.

    Opening in theaters on May 27th is the big screen adaption of the popular animated series ‘Bob’s Burgers,’ entitled ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie.’ Directed by Loren Bouchard and Bernard Derriman, the movie features the voices of H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, Eugene Mirman, Larry Murphy, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, Zach Galifianakis, Aziz Ansari, Gary Cole, David Wain, Jenny Slate, Stephanie Beatriz, and Oscar winner Kevin Kline.

    When a sinkhole in front of the Belcher’s restaurant ruin the family’s plans for a perfect summer, Bob and Linda struggle to keep the business afloat, while their kids try to solve a mystery that could save their family’s restaurant. The result is an animated musical comedy that will please fans of the series but may lose those not familiar with the source material.

    The movie begins by reintroducing audiences to the Belcher family as they prepare for their perfect summer. But trouble begins as Bob (Benjamin) and Linda (Roberts) are turned down for an extension on their bank loan and now have only a week to pay it back. But their ability to make the money in time is jeopardized by a sinkhole that develops in front of the restaurant, blocking patrons from entering. Soon, Louise (Schaal) finds the skeleton of a murdered man in the hole and begins an investigation to discover the real killer.

    Meanwhile, Tina (Mintz) decides to tell her crush her true feelings, Gene (Mirman) is determined to get his band to headline Wonder Warf’s summer show, and Louise’s school rival calls her a baby! But when the kids overhear their parents discussing their money issues, Louise enlists her siblings to solve the mystery of the sinkhole and save their family business.

    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’
    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ opens in theaters on May 27th. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios.

    Those not familiar with the series may be thrown by the casting, as several male actors voice female characters, which takes some adjustment but ultimately works for the performances. The voice cast returning from the series clearly know their characters well, and really create a sweet family dynamic. Dan Mintz is excellent as the Belcher’s oldest daughter, Tina, who is just beginning her awkward teenage years. Eugene Mirman’s Gene and Kristen Schaal’s Louise are also well voiced and add to the odd humor of the film, especially Louise who’s story helps drive the plot.

    Another male actor voicing a female character is John Roberts as Linda, who plays the classic loving yet overbearing mother. His interpretation of Linda is one of the strongest in the film and creates a very relatable character. H. Jon Benjamin is also very good as Bob, but the character’s low droll of a voice becomes too monotone at times.

    The film also includes famous actors not seen on the original series, like Zach Galifianakis, David Wain, and surprisingly, Oscar winner Kevin Klein, who play the movie’s antagonists, Felix Fischoeder, Courtney Wheeler, and Calvin Fischoder, respectively. Each actor offers a funny and interesting take on their over-the-top characters.

    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’
    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ opens in theaters on May 27th. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios.

    Directors Loren Bouchard and Bernard Derriman succeed in the animation and music departments, however the story, which is basically a “who done it,” is far too simple for a two-hour movie, at times over-stuffing the plot and moving focus away from the family dynamics that made the series a hit with fans.

    Much like other big screen adaptions of popular animated TV shows such as ‘The Simpsons Movie’ or ‘South Park: Bigger, Louder & Uncut,’ the film feels at times like an over-bloated episode of the television series, which may entertain fans, but could leave others lost.

    At its heart, ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ is really an animated musical, with wonderfully funny songs that work well within the context of the film, like the opening number “Perfect Summer” or Tina’s balled, “Summer Boyfriend.” But ultimately, not knowing the original source material and characters was really a detriment to enjoying the overall movie.

    In the end, ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ features strong animation, lovable characters and great musical numbers, but falls short of transcending its television source material. New audiences will only enjoy it so much, but fans of the original series will delight in the nostalgia and familiar characters.

    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ receives 3.5 out of 5 stars.

    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’
    ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’ opens in theaters on May 27th. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios.
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  • ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ Screenwriters Adapting ‘Thelma the Unicorn’ Into Netflix Animated Musical

    ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ Screenwriters Adapting ‘Thelma the Unicorn’ Into Netflix Animated Musical

    Jerusha and Jared Hess; Thelma the Unicorn cover
    Netflix; Scholastic

    Let the glitter fly. Netflix has an adaptation of the children’s book “Thelma the Unicorn” on the way, with “Napoleon Dynamite” screenwriters Jerusha and Jared Hess on board. The Hesses are writing the script for an animated musical based on the popular book by Aaron Blabey, and Jared is set to direct.

    Netflix announced the adaptation Wednesday. It touted the success of “Thelma the Unicorn” the book, which has sold more than 1.6 million copies across 14 countries. The streamer also revealed the movie’s logline:

    When a rare pink and glitter-filled moment of fate makes Thelma the Pony’s wish of being a unicorn come true, she rises to instant international pop-superstar stardom, but at an unexpected cost. ‘Thelma the Unicorn’ is a joyful story about learning to love who you are… even if you don’t have sparkles.

    Blabey will executive produce the series alongside Patrick Hughes of Foundation Media Partners. The Hesses described themselves in a statement as “huge fan’s of Aaron’s work” and called working on the adaptation with him “a dream come true.” Meanwhile, Blabey added that he’s “beyond excited” and “Thelma is SO ready for her close-up!”

    So far, it remains to be seen just when that close-up will happen, but rest assured that the glitter-filled moments are coming.

  • Disney’s ‘Hercules’ Adapted to Musical for Shakespeare in the Park Staging

    Disney’s ‘Hercules’ Adapted to Musical for Shakespeare in the Park Staging

    Hercules
    Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

    “Hercules” has found a new temporary home: Central Park.

    A musical based on the 1997 Disney film has been added to The Public Theater’s “Free Shakespeare in the Park” Summer 2019 lineup. It will be the final production of the season, with “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Coriolanus” preceding it, in that order.

    The musical will be presented by Public Works, a Public Theater initiative that encourages community members to create and participate in theater. The cast will be made up of professional actors, with community groups playing a role in bringing the show to stage. The founder and resident director of Public Works, Lear deBessonet, is directing. The musical will feature the film’s score as well as original songs with music and lyrics from Alan Menken and David Zippel, respectively. The book is by Kristoffer Diaz and choreography is by Chase Brock.

    “Hercules” will get a chance to prove he is a hero when the musical begins its run Aug. 31. It concludes Sept. 8.

    [via: Deadline]

  • The 15 Greatest Movie Musicals of the Last 20 Years

    The 15 Greatest Movie Musicals of the Last 20 Years

  • Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ to Star Ansel Elgort as Tony

    Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ to Star Ansel Elgort as Tony

    Ansel Elgort in Baby Driver
    TriStar Pictures

    The more we learn about Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” adaptation, the surer we are that something’s coming, something good.

    The latest on the “West Side Story” front is that the movie musical’s male lead, Tony, has been found. Ansel Elgort has signed on to play the role in the film, Deadline reports. His character is part of a tragic love story involving a deadly rivalry between two street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks.

    There are more roles still to be cast, including that of Maria, Tony’s forbidden love. We’re awaiting those announcements, but in the meantime, the addition of Elgort is a big one. He previously starred in 2017’s “Baby Driver” and was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actor — Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

    Spielberg is directing the film and Tony Kushner wrote the script, adapting the 1957 musical, which itself is inspired by “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare. Broadway choreographer Justin Peck has also joined the project.

    “West Side Story” is expected to kick off production next summer.

    [via: Deadline]

  • Live Version of ‘Rent’ Coming to Fox in 2019

    Fox’s live version of the musical “Rent” is more than 525,600 minutes away, but at least we finally have a premiere date.

    The network announced Monday that it has set its upcoming TV musical for early 2019, which means we have quite a wait ahead of us. Specifically, the date is Jan. 27, exactly one week before Super Bowl LIII. The musical should be just as anticipated among theater buffs as the NFL’s biggest game is for football die-hards; its Broadway predecessor is widely appreciated and has won multiple Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize.

    Loosely based on Puccini’s “La Bohème,” “Rent” follows a group of struggling artists living in New York City. It tackles social and political issues that were especially groundbreaking when it was written, including HIV/AIDS. The show premiered on Broadway in 1996, and several of its actors went on to star in the 2005 film version.

    The live musical will be executive produced by Marc Platt, whose work includes “Grease: Live,” “La La Land,” and “Wicked.” He is joined by Adam Siegel, Julie Larson, and Al Larson, plus Vince Totino, Scott Hemming, and Marla Levine of Revolution Studios.

    “Rent” premieres on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Fox, so you can start counting down the minutes now.

  • Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig Are Making a Musical Together

    70th Annual Golden Globe Awards - ShowWe’d watch Kristen Wiig and Will Ferrell do just about anything together on the big screen, and their latest collaboration sounds even more perfect — and quirky — than we could ever imagine.

    SNL” alums are teaming up for a musical comedy that will tell the true story of “how corporate America employed Broadway talent to take part in industrial shows from the 1950s to the 1980s to help motivate sales forces and educate employees on products. … Companies that employed the talent ranged from American Standard, G.E., Exxon, J.C. Penney, Westinghouse, Coca-Cola, Phillips Petroleum, Lucite and Ford Motor Co. They would act and sing either with original songs or song parodies.” The concept is based on the nonfiction book “Everything Is Coming Up Profits: The Golden Age Of Industrial Musicals” by Steve Young and Mike Murphy.

    As if Wiig and Ferrell weren’t a big enough draw, the behind the scenes talent is top-notch, too. Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman — who collaborated on NBC’s musical series “Smash,’ as well as the Broadway version of “Grease Live!” and Oscar hopeful “La La Land” — will produce.

    Deadline reports that deals are still being negotiated for the high-profile project, so stay tuned. We can’t wait to see how this zany flick turns out.

    [via: Deadline]

  • ‘The Flash’ and ‘Supergirl’ Will Stage a Musical Crossover This Season

    supergirl, the flash, crossoverCrossovers are apparently the new cool thing: After Fox surprised attendees of the Television Critics Association summer press tour earlier this week by announcing an upcoming crossover event between comedies “New Girl” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” The CW announced its own splashy crossover event on Thursday — and it’s going to be super.

    The two shows in question are CW hit “The Flash” and former CBS series “Supergirl,” which is moving to sister network CW for its sophomore season this fall. Those superhero series previously staged a successful crossover event last year, so it makes sense for The CW to return to that idea. But this time, there’s a big twist: The episodes will be musicals.

    “Yes, there will be a musical crossover,” executive producer Greg Berlanti told the TCA crowd. “There’s going to be a musical pair of episodes in the back half of the year between ‘Supergirl’ and ‘Flash.’”

    That’s not a lot to go on, but boy, are the possibilities endless. As Entertainment Weekly notes, both shows’ casts boast plenty of musical talent, including “Supergirl” stars Melissa Benoist (a “Glee” alum) and Jeremy Jordan (a Tony nominee for “Newsies”) and “The Flash” stars Grant Gustin (another former “Glee” star) and Jesse L. Martin (a member of the original Broadway cast of “Rent”). Berlanti seemed pretty excited by the prospect, too.

    “Some of you may know my own personal love of musicals and actors who have been in them, and we have a number of people who can sing across all the shows who will be making some very exciting appearances in the back half of the year,” Berlanti told reporters.

    Sounds like music to our ears. Stay tuned for more details and an airdate for the crossover event.

    [via: Entertainment Weekly]