Tag: speak-no-evil

  • The 20 Most Terrifying Horror Films of the Last Decade

    The 20 Most Terrifying Horror Films of the Last Decade

    Emily Blunt as Evelyn Abbott in 'A Quiet Place.'
    Emily Blunt as Evelyn Abbott in ‘A Quiet Place.’

    Horror movies have two speeds: Slasher and terrifyingly intense. At the risk of sleeping with the lights on for the next forever, we’re looking at the latter.

    With Halloween fast approaching, Moviefone is counting down the most terrifying horror movies that were released between 2015 and now.

    Let’s begin!

    Related Article: 35 Scariest Horror Movies of All-Time, Ranked


    20. ‘Nosferatu‘ (2024)

    Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter in director Robert Eggers’ 'Nosferatu', a Focus Features release. Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features / © 2024 Focus Features LLC.
    Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter in director Robert Eggers’ ‘Nosferatu’, a Focus Features release. Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features / © 2024 Focus Features LLC.

    Robert Eggers’ ‘Nosferatu’ is a gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman (Lily-Rose Depp) and the terrifying vampire (Bill Skarsgård) infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake.

    9AsVzkZWOeFuvGl1R1oWz5

    19. ‘Immaculate‘ (2024)

    An American nun (Sydney Sweeney) embarks on a new journey when she joins a remote convent in the Italian countryside. However, her warm welcome quickly turns into a living nightmare when she discovers her new home harbours a sinister secret and unspeakable horrors.

    jUFUXYa2htdcpdJ8mlXkF1

    18. ‘Speak No Evil‘ (2024)

    When an American family is invited to spend the weekend at the idyllic country estate of a charming British family they befriended on vacation, what begins as a dream holiday soon warps into a snarled psychological nightmare.

    diz2MyQAy90vzIH7QyWDV5

    17. ‘Nope‘ (2022)

    Residents in a lonely gulch of inland California bear witness to an uncanny, chilling discovery.

    G8a49ufGYNF2LsFWk3rc14

    16. ‘Barbarian‘ (2022)

    In town for a job interview, a young woman (Georgina Campbell) arrives at her Airbnb late at night only to find that it has been mistakenly double-booked and a strange man (Bill Skarsgård) is already staying there. Against her better judgement, she decides to stay the night anyway.

    rrTLEBuWdDthSNDrFZrwm

    15. ‘The Menu‘ (2022)

    The cast of 'The Menu.' Photo by Eric Zachanowich. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2022 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.
    The cast of ‘The Menu.’ Photo by Eric Zachanowich. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2022 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.

    A young couple (Anya Taylor-Joy and Nicholas Hoult) travels to a remote island to eat at an exclusive restaurant where the chef (Ralph Fiennes) has prepared a lavish menu, with some shocking surprises.

    uMyJXGNeZYC9KvHwCoq2d2

    14. ‘Doctor Sleep‘ (2019)

    Still scarred by the trauma he endured as a child at the Overlook Hotel, Dan Torrance (Ewan McGregor) faces the ghosts of the past when he meets Abra (Kyliegh Curran), a courageous teen who desperately needs his help — and who possesses a powerful extrasensory ability called the “shine”.

    lz7wX7QQwH38Pejp5PcQ72

    13. ‘Smile‘ (2022)

    After witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient, Dr. Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon) starts experiencing frightening occurrences that she can’t explain.

    VbgmTtR1hvLV55fmPLfa42

    12. ‘The Monkey‘ (2025)

    When twin brothers (Theo James) find a mysterious wind-up monkey, a series of outrageous deaths tear their family apart. Twenty-five years later, the monkey begins a new killing spree forcing the estranged brothers to confront the cursed toy.

    ZVqbEOo5rDrkRNV1FGJgg7

    11. ‘Talk to Me‘ (2023)

    When a group of friends discover how to conjure spirits using an embalmed hand, they become hooked on the new thrill, until one of them goes too far and unleashes terrifying supernatural forces.

    c0DGUAx6CiV0M663JGzxk1

    10. ‘Longlegs‘ (2024)

    Maika Monroe in 'Longlegs'. Photo: Neon.
    Maika Monroe in ‘Longlegs’. Photo: Neon.

    In pursuit of a serial killer (Nicolas Cage), an FBI agent (Maika Monroe) uncovers a series of occult clues that she must solve to end his terrifying killing spree.

    f1CZT3waPdgmD927NgBwJ4

    9. ‘Weapons‘ (2025)

    When all but one child from the same class mysteriously vanish on the same night at exactly the same time, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.

    xtEXVsof6Y9PmpmI1phg34

    8. ‘The Substance‘ (2024)

    A fading celebrity (Demi Moore) decides to use a black market drug, a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself (Margaret Qualley).

    XDW8BIte6djJ8VczYmU4M7

    7. ‘Midsommar‘ (2019)

    Several friends travel to Sweden to study as anthropologists a summer festival that is held every ninety years in the remote hometown of one of them. What begins as a dream vacation in a place where the sun never sets, gradually turns into a dark nightmare as the mysterious inhabitants invite them to participate in their disturbing festive activities.

    qyjvUkNtWrcjpUh1dp58E

    6. ‘Get Out‘ (2017)

    Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) and his girlfriend Rose (Allison Williams) go upstate to visit her parents for the weekend. At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he never could have imagined.

    20088931

    5. ‘Heretic‘ (2024)

    Hugh Grant in 'Heretic'. Photo: A24.
    Hugh Grant in ‘Heretic’. Photo: A24.

    Two young missionaries (Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East) are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.

    doqIld1zIazFejxQjFWjA7

    4. ‘A Quiet Place‘ (2018)

    A family is forced to live in silence while hiding from creatures that hunt by sound.

    fc5nXexahuoi3aPWHZezt4

    3. ‘It‘ (2017)

    In a small town in Maine, seven children known as The Losers Club come face to face with life problems, bullies and a monster that takes the shape of a clown called Pennywise.

    3ulw3EXlxHiyZxk7bFigM3

    2. ‘It Follows‘ (2015)

    A young woman (Maika Monroe) is followed by an unknown supernatural force after a sexual encounter.

    20054384

    1. ‘Hereditary‘ (2018)

    Toni Collette in 'Hereditary'. Photo: A24.
    Toni Collette in ‘Hereditary’. Photo: A24.

    Following the death of the Leigh family matriarch, Annie (Toni Collette) and her children uncover disturbing secrets about their heritage. Their daily lives are not only impacted, but they also become entangled in a chilling fate from which they cannot escape, driving them to the brink of madness.

    DQRGO0nR4rVbgY8abuoCI
  • Max Minghella in Talks for DC Studios’ ‘Clayface’

    (Left) Max Minghella in 'Spiral'. Photo: Lionsgate. (Right) DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    (Left) Max Minghella in ‘Spiral’. Photo: Lionsgate. (Right) DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    Preview:

    • Max Minghella is in talks to join the Clayface movie.
    • James Watkins is in the director’s chair.
    • Tom Rhys Harries has the lead role.

    As pre-production continues on the movie, the cast for DC Studios’ horror-inflected, Batman-adjacent ‘Clayface’ is growing.

    Max Minghella, currently best known for his role on ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, is close to a deal to join the movie, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

    zOLy1orku1IEuURChnVz07

    Tom Rhys Harries has the lead role, while James Watkins, who last directed ‘Speak No Evil’, is overseeing the movie, which has seen script work from Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini.

    Naomi Ackie is also recently joined the lead ensemble.

    Related Article: ‘Mickey 17’s Naomi Ackie in Talks for a Role in DC Studios’ ‘Clayface’

    Who is Clayface exactly?

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    If you’re not up to date on the muddy man-monster, here’s your basic briefing on Clayface as a character.

    Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, the original Clayface, Basil Karlo, appeared in Detective Comics #40, published in June 1940, as a B-list actor who began a life of crime using the identity of a villain that he had portrayed in a horror film.

    Kane stated that the character was partially inspired by the 1925 Lon Chaney version of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ and that his name was derived from Boris Karloff and Basil Rathbone.

    The Reporter’s sources say the story focuses on an ascending actor (Harries) whose face is disfigured by a gangster. As a last resort, the actor turns to a fringe Elizabeth Holmes-style scientist (Ackie) for help. Minghella will play a Gotham City detective dating Ackie’s character.

    Where else can we see Max Minghella?

    (L to R) Max Minghella, Olivia Thirlby, Emile Hirsch and Rachael Taylor in 'The Darkest Hour'. Photo: Summit Entertainment.
    (L to R) Max Minghella, Olivia Thirlby, Emile Hirsch and Rachael Taylor in ‘The Darkest Hour’. Photo: Summit Entertainment.

    Besides ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, Minghella is known for the likes of ‘The Social Network’, ‘Babylon’, ‘The Internship’ and ‘Agora’.

    He’s also a directed, having made ‘Teen Spirit’ and the upcoming ‘Shell’, which premiered last year at the Toronto International Film Festival and is in cinemas at the end of the week. The film stars Elisabeth Moss, Kate Hudson and Kaia Gerber.

    Minghella most recently worked on the fourth season of HBO series ‘Industry’, which should be on screens next year.

    When will the Clayface movie be in theaters?

    The movie has a scheduled plan for a UK shoot at Leavesden Studios in place, and Warner Bros. and DC Studios are confirming a September 11th, 2026 theatrical release for ‘Clayface’.

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    List of Max Minghella Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Max Minghella Movies and TV on Amazon

    KvfnxUm6
  • Naomi Ackie in Talks for DC Studios’ ‘Clayface’

    (Left) Naomi Ackie stars in 'Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody.' (Right) DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    (Left) Naomi Ackie stars in ‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody.’ (Right) DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    Preview:

    • Naomi Ackie is in talks to join the Clayface movie.
    • James Watkins is in the director’s chair.
    • Tom Rhys Harries has the lead role.

    As ‘Superman’ continues to do solid business at the box office for James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Studios, attention is turning to the other titles that have been confirmed for their take on the DC Universe.

    Deadline brings word that Naomi Ackie, seen as Whitney Houston in musical biopic ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ and sci-fi pic ‘Mickey 17’, is in talks for one of the main roles in ‘Clayface’.

    zOLy1orku1IEuURChnVz07

    Fellow UK-born actor Tom Rhys Harries has the lead role, while James Watkins, who last directed ‘Speak No Evil’, is overseeing the movie, which has seen script work from Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini.

    Related Article: Welsh Actor Tom Rhys Harries Starring in DC Studios’ ‘Clayface’ Movie

    Who is Clayface exactly?

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    If you’re not up to date on the muddy man-monster, here’s your basic briefing on Clayface as a character.

    Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, the original Clayface, Basil Karlo, appeared in Detective Comics #40, published in June 1940, as a B-list actor who began a life of crime using the identity of a villain that he had portrayed in a horror film.

    Kane stated that the character was partially inspired by the 1925 Lon Chaney version of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’; and that his name was derived from Boris Karloff and Basil Rathbone.

    As for the tone of the movie itself, Deadline’s sources have heard that the Clayface movie is rumored to be a horror-thriller-tragedy, with the lead protagonist not expected to be portrayed as the notorious villain he’s usually seen as.

    Where else have I seen Naomi Ackie?

    Naomi Ackie in Tristar Pictures 'Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody.' Photo: Tristar Pictures.
    Naomi Ackie in Tristar Pictures ‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody.’ Photo: Tristar Pictures.

    In addition to the aforementioned roles in ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ and ‘Mickey 17’, Ackie’s star has been on the rise for the last few years.

    Following her movie debut in 2016’s ‘Lady Macbeth’, she’s also popped up in the likes of ‘Yardie’ and ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’.

    Coming up, she has the Netflix movie adaptation of Richard Osman’s murder mystery novel ‘The Thursday Murder Club’, which stars Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan. That one will be streaming on August 28th.

    When will the Clayface movie be in theaters?

    The movie has a scheduled production plan for a UK shoot at Leavesden Studios in place, and Warner Bros. and DC Studios are confirming a September 11th, 2026 theatrical release for this one.

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

     

    Selected Movies Featuring Naomi Ackie:

    Buy Naomi Ackie Movies on Amazon

    KlO4e5VS
  • Tom Rhys Harries to star in DC Studios’ ‘Clayface’

    (Left) Elizabeth Henstridge and Tom Rhys Harries in 'Suspicion', now streaming on Apple TV+. (Right) DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    (Left) Elizabeth Henstridge and Tom Rhys Harries in ‘Suspicion’, now streaming on Apple TV+. (Right) DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    Preview:

    • Tom Rhys Harries has won the lead in the Clayface movie.
    • James Watkins is in the director’s chair.
    • The movie is set for a September 2026 release date.

    With the current cinematic incarnation of DC Studios, run by James Gunn and Peter Safran launching with Gunn’s take on the Man of Steel, another developing movie from the company took a positive step forward by narrowing in on its lead.

    ‘Clayface’, which will spotlight the shape-shifting Batman villain, has a face at last. Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries has seen off the likes of ’28 Years Later’s Jack O’Connell, ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ Tom Blyth, ‘The White Lotus’ Leo Woodall and ‘1917’s George MacKay to score the title role.

    zOLy1orku1IEuURChnVz07

    James Watkins, who last directed ‘Speak No Evil’, is overseeing the movie, which has seen script work from Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini.

    It’s the next movie that will head into production for the studio, with a 2026 release date planned.

    Related Article: ‘Speak No Evil’ Director James Watkins to Direct ‘Clayface’ for DC Studios and Warner Bros.

    Who is Clayface exactly?

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    If you’re not up to date on the muddy man-monster, here’s your basic briefing on Clayface as a character.

    Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, the original Clayface, Basil Karlo, appeared in Detective Comics #40, published in June 1940, as a B-list actor who began a life of crime using the identity of a villain that he had portrayed in a horror film.

    Kane stated that the character was partially inspired by the 1925 Lon Chaney version of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’; and that his name was derived from Boris Karloff and Basil Rathbone.

    The character only appeared twice in the Golden Age but was the inspiration for the shape-shifting Silver Age version. And, as is usual in comic books, the name has been used for a number of similar takes on the character.

    In the late 1950s, Batman began facing a series of science fiction-inspired foes, including Matthew Hagen, a treasure hunter given vast shapeshifting powers and resiliency by exposure to a pool of radioactive protoplasm, who became the second Clayface. He retained the title for the next couple of decades of comic book history.

    In the late 1970s, Preston Payne became the third Clayface. A scientist suffering from hyperpituitarism, Preston Payne used the second Clayface’s blood to create a cure for his condition, but instead became a clay-like creature that needed to pass his new condition on to others to survive.

    Sondra Fuller of Strike Force Kobra used the terrorist group’s technology to become the fourth Clayface, also known as Lady Clay. She formed the Mud Pack with the original and third Clayfaces. During this era, the original Clayface used the DNA of Payne and Fuller to become the Ultimate Clayface (talk about bragging!)

    Sometime after the Mud Pack event, Payne and Fuller had a son named Cassius “Clay” Payne, who, as the fifth Clayface, also had metahuman shapeshifting powers.

    That’s just a selection of the character’s alternates, who have appeared over the years in various films, series, animated works, video games and other forms of media.

    Alan Tudyk voices Clayface in the animated series ‘Harley Quinn’ and ‘Creature Commandos.’ Ron Perlman previously voiced him in animated projects ‘Batman: The Animated Series’ and ‘The New Batman Adventures.’ Brian McManamon played the villain on ‘Gotham,’ while Lorraine Burroughs was Clayface on ‘Pennyworth.’

    Gunn and Safran have previously said that actors who play roles in the animated sphere for their DC Studios will also take on the live-action version, but we don’t know if that means Tudyk will return for the movie.

    As for the tone of the movie, Deadline’s sources have heard that the Clayface movie is rumored to be a horror-thriller-tragedy, with the lead protagonist not expected to be portrayed as the notorious villain he’s usually seen as.

    Where else have I seen Tom Rhys Harries?

    (L to R) Kunal Nayyar and Tom Rhys-Harries in 'Suspicion', now streaming on Apple TV+.
    (L to R) Kunal Nayyar and Tom Rhys-Harries in ‘Suspicion’, now streaming on Apple TV+.

    Harries feels like a fresh face, but he’s not really a newcomer. The actor has been seen in movies including ‘The Gentlemen’, ‘The Return,’Kandahar’ and the small screen likes of ‘Doctor Who’ and Apple TV+ series ‘Suspicion.’

    What else is going on in the DC Studios movie universe?

    (L to R) Director James Gunn GUNN and David Corenswet on the set of DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Director James Gunn GUNN and David Corenswet on the set of DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Gunn’s big re-launch of DC-based movies kicks off next month with the launch of the aforementioned ‘Superman,’ featuring David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Supes and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. It’ll be in theaters on July 11th.

    Batman, as played by Robert Pattinson in Matt Reeves‘The Batman’ is staying around (a sequel, despite delays, is still being scripted), but he’s as part of the extended “Elseworlds” stories, which exist outside of the DC continuity.

    Gunn and Safran’s original announcement also included mention that ‘Batman: The Brave And The Bold’, was in development, adapting Grant Morrison’s run comics run.

    It features yet another Bruce Wayne who tries to keep his son, Damien Wayne, in line as Robin. It’s intended to launch the “Bat-family” into the movie universe, but has been hit with scripting issues and delays.

    On the confirmed big screen front, ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,’ opens in June 2026, starring Milly Alcock and directed by Craig Gillespie from a script by Ana Nogueira.

    There is also ‘Clayface’ — a horror film about the titular Batman villain — which is currently set to launch in September 2026, and will be directed by James Watkins (‘The Woman in Black’) from a script by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini but is also undergoing re-writes.

    Finally, we have ‘Dynamic Duo’ — an animated feature about Batman’s Robin sidekicks Dick Grayson and Jason Todd — which is tentatively scheduled for June 2028.

    Speaking recently with Rolling Stone, Gunn explained that he doesn’t want substandard movies coming out of his new DC effort:

    “We have to treat every project as if we’re lucky. We don’t have the mandate to have a certain amount of movies and TV shows every year. So we’re going to put out everything that we think is of the highest quality. We’re obviously going to do some good things and some not-so-good things, but hopefully on average everything will be as high-quality as possible. Nothing goes before there’s a screenplay that I personally am happy with.”

    When will the Clayface movie be in theaters?

    With a director and star now aboard, and production plans for a UK shoot at Leavesden Studios in place, Warner Bros. and DC Studios are confirming a September 11th, 2026 release for this one.

    (L to R) James McAvoy (as Dalton) and Director James Watkins on the set of 'Speak No Evil'.
    (L to R) James McAvoy (as Dalton) and Director James Watkins on the set of ‘Speak No Evil’.

    Other Tom Rhys Harries Movies:

    Buy Tom Rhys Harries Movies on Amazon

    bE3ruJ5G
  • James Watkins to Direct Clayface Movie

    (Left) Director James Watkins on the set of 'Speak No Evil'. (Right) DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    (Left) Director James Watkins on the set of ‘Speak No Evil’. (Right) DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    Preview:

    • James Watkins will direct the ‘Clayface’ movie for Warner Bros.
    • Mike Flanagan wrote the script.
    • The movie would land in theaters in 2026.

    With its revamped cinematic universe set to take flight this July with James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ (and with ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’ in the works from Craig Gillespie as a follow-up), DC Studios –– run by Gunn alongside Peter Safran –– is making moves to hire another filmmaker.

    In this case, the subject is Batman villain Clayface, which has a script in place from ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ and ‘Doctor Sleep’s Mike Flanagan.

    Yet while he’s long accomplished as both a writer and director, he wasn’t expected to take up the main job on the Clayface movie, since he has commitments elsewhere, including to Universal’s continuing ‘Exorcist’ franchise.

    But though DC Studios and parent company Warner Bros. have already been putting feelers (presumably dripping with clay) out about potential casting, the sharper focus has been on finding a director to bring Flanagan’s script to life.

    After buzz last week that the choice was coming down to between ‘Truth or Dare’ and ‘Imaginary’s Jeff Wadlow and ‘Speak No Evil’ remake director James Watkins, The Hollywood Reporter brings word that Watkins has landed the gig.

    According to the Reporter’s sources, DC co-chief Gunn met with Watkins last Thursday for a final presentation that led to the nod. But that’s just one stage –– a deal for Watkins to handle the movie will now be hammered out.

    Related Article: ‘Rebel Ridge’s Aaron Pierre Scores the John Stewart Role in DC Series ‘Lanterns’

    Who is Clayface exactly?

    DC Comics' Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.
    DC Comics’ Clayface. Photo: DC Comics.

    If you’re not up to date on the muddy man-monster, here’s your basic briefing on Clayface as a character.

    Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, the original Clayface, Basil Karlo, appeared in Detective Comics #40, published in June 1940, as a B-list actor who began a life of crime using the identity of a villain that he had portrayed in a horror film.

    Kane stated that the character was partially inspired by the 1925 Lon Chaney version of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’; and that his name was derived from Boris Karloff and Basil Rathbone.

    The character only appeared twice in the Golden Age but was the inspiration for the shape-shifting Silver Age version. And, as is usual in comic books, the name has been used for a number of similar takes on the character.

    In the late 1950s, Batman began facing a series of science fiction-inspired foes, including Matthew Hagen, a treasure hunter given vast shapeshifting powers and resiliency by exposure to a pool of radioactive protoplasm, who became the second Clayface. He retained the title for the next couple of decades of comic book history.

    In the late 1970s, Preston Payne became the third Clayface. A scientist suffering from hyperpituitarism, Preston Payne used the second Clayface’s blood to create a cure for his condition, but instead became a clay-like creature that needed to pass his new condition on to others to survive.

    Sondra Fuller of Strike Force Kobra used the terrorist group’s technology to become the fourth Clayface, also known as Lady Clay. She formed the Mud Pack with the original and third Clayfaces. During this era, the original Clayface used the DNA of Payne and Fuller to become the Ultimate Clayface (talk about bragging!)

    Sometime after the Mud Pack event, Payne and Fuller had a son named Cassius “Clay” Payne, who, as the fifth Clayface, also had metahuman shapeshifting powers.

    That’s just a selection of the character’s alternates, who have appeared over the years in various films, series, animated works, video games and other forms of media.

    Alan Tudyk voices Clayface in the animated series ‘Harley Quinn’ and ‘Creature Commandos.’ Ron Perlman previously voiced him in animated projects ‘Batman: The Animated Series’ and ‘The New Batman Adventures.’ Brian McManamon played the villain on ‘Gotham,’ while Lorraine Burroughs was Clayface on ‘Pennyworth.’

    Gunn and Safran have previously said that actors who play roles in the animated sphere for their DC Studios will also take on the live-action version, but we don’t know if that means Tudyk will return for the movie.

    As for the tone of the movie, Deadline’s sources have heard that the Clayface movie is rumored to be a horror-thriller-tragedy, with the lead protagonist not expected to be portrayed as the notorious villain he’s usually seen as.

    What else has Watkins worked on?

    (L to R) Director James Watkins and Mackenzie Davis (as Louise Dalton) on the set of 'Speak No Evil'.
    (L to R) Director James Watkins and Mackenzie Davis (as Louise Dalton) on the set of ‘Speak No Evil’.

    In addition to ‘Speak No Evil,’ (which made more than $76 million at the worldwide box office on a $15 million budget), Watkins has a history with horror on the big screen and drama on TV.

    He made his directorial debut with 2008 thriller ‘Eden Lake,’ which starred Michael Fassbender and Kelly Reilly as a couple terrorized by a group of youths led by Jack O’Connell.

    He followed that up with 2012’s ‘The Woman in Black,’ a ghost story that starred Daniel Radcliff and 2016 Idris Elba crime thriller ‘Bastille Day.’

    On the small screen, he co-created the crime drama ‘McMafia,’ and directed episodes of ‘Black Mirror’ and 2022’s TV take on ‘The Ipcress File.’

    When will the Clayface movie be in theaters?

    This is one directing deal that will need to come together quickly –– Warner Bros. has already handed out a September 11th, 2026 release date for the movie, so Watkins will likely be putting the pieces together and rolling cameras this year.

    (L to R) Alix West Lefler (as Agnes Dalton), Mackenzie Davis (as Louise Dalton), Scoot McNairy (as Ben Dalton), Director James Watkins and Aisling Franciosi (as Ciara) on the set of 'Speak No Evil'.
    (L to R) Alix West Lefler (as Agnes Dalton), Mackenzie Davis (as Louise Dalton), Scoot McNairy (as Ben Dalton), Director James Watkins and Aisling Franciosi (as Ciara) on the set of ‘Speak No Evil’.

    Other James Watkins Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy James Watkins Movies on Amazon

    vERo3XlI

     

  • Movie Review: ‘Speak No Evil’

    James McAvoy in 'Speak No Evil.' Photo: Universal Pictures.
    James McAvoy in ‘Speak No Evil.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Opening in theaters on September 13th, ‘Speak No Evil’ takes on the basic concept of a 2022 Danish chiller that has a shocking, politically charged and pitch-black ending and re-imagines it for American audiences in a way that still works.

    Though some might argue that the harder edges of the original –– which (spoiler alert if you haven’t seen it) ends with the murder of a child and a couple stoned to death that carries heavy echoes of the Holocaust –– have been whittled down here, there are still plenty of shocks and surprises to keep you guessing.

    Related Article: James McAvoy Talks ‘Speak No Evil’ and Playing His Nefarious Character

    Does ‘Speak No Evil’ Shout Proudly?

    (L to R) Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) and Paddy (James McAvoy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) and Paddy (James McAvoy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Director Christian Tafdrup’s screenplay for the original film (written with brother Mads) shocked –– and in some cases, appalled those who saw it as part of 2022’s Sundance Film Festival. The big question was whether anyone would ever risk trying to remake it.

    Now we have our answer, as the Blumhouse team has stepped up to do just that, with ‘Eden Lake’ and ‘The Woman in Black’ writer/director James Watkins hired to bring his own take and style to the new movie. And while he’s certainly made some big changes, the twisty story, bolstered by great work from the likes of James McAvoy, Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis, certainly makes for an enjoyable tense time at the movies.

    Script and Direction

    James McAvoy and director James Watkins on the set of 'Speak No Evil.'
    (L to R) James McAvoy and director James Watkins on the set of ‘Speak No Evil.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Watkins is no stranger to bleak filmmaking –– after all ‘Eden Lake’ doesn’t exactly end with jokes and smiles. But what he chooses to do with ‘Speak No Evil’ is definitely interesting. Does it completely edge the new movie into justifying the remake completely? Not always, but it’s enough.

    Here, he borrows the basic premise of the Danish film –– two families interact in a way that is built on different cultural understandings of politeness and behavior, albeit to a less harsh degree than that of the original, since Americans and Brits share a lot of them. Yet there are other, different themes at play here, including toxic masculinity, guilt, financial struggles and misunderstandings.

    His script gives McAvoy in particular some great moments to play, but serves the whole smallish cast well, adding agency to the younger characters that the Danish film did not possess.

    On the visual front, the isolated farmhouse and rugged countryside offer interest and drama as the setting, while Watkins and regular cinematographer Tim Maurice-Jones get great mileage out of both the Italian and UK vistas.

    Performances

    McAvoy has the showiest part, but he’s very well supported by the others, who all enjoy dimensional characters and moments to shine.

    James McAvoy as Paddy

    Paddy (James McAvoy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    Paddy (James McAvoy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Paddy is a fascinating character for McAvoy to bring to life, a bubbling, ostensibly charming but often overbearing blend of masculine energy and opinions. Along with Watkins, canny, well-constructed script, he slowly builds the tension until Paddy’s true intentions become clear.

    Scoot McNairy as Ben Dalton

    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy), and Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy), and Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    As one half of the couple who befriend Paddy and his wife, McNairy brings big “beta male” energy to Ben, a passive businessman who moved his family to London for his career but has seen his fortunes take a tumble. Like McAvoy, he commits to the role, bringing a nervy energy to the character who fears he may never match up to Paddy –– but has strength where it counts.

    Mackenzie Davis as Louise Dalton

    Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Louise might be the most complex character in the movie. A protective mother, a concerned wife but also a fully-rounded human being with her own drives and secrets. And she’s also something of a badass when called upon.

    It also doesn’t hurt that Davis and McNairy spent years working together (albeit not playing husband and wife) on AMC TV series ‘Halt and Catch Fire’ and bring their long experience to the on-screen relationship.

    Aisling Franciosi as Ciara

    (L to R) Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Though Franciosi’s role is smaller, she also gets some good moments, particularly when the true nature of Paddy and Ciara’s behavior is revealed. She and McAvoy have a great dynamic.

    Supporting cast

    (L to R) Ant (Dan Hough) and Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Ant (Dan Hough) and Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    While the cast is understandably kept small, there are some other notable performances. Alix West Lefler as Ben and Louise’s daughter Agnes is good in her smaller role, since one of Watkins’ changes from the original is to give the families’ children some more agency. Together with Dan Hough, who makes a strong debut as Ant, Paddy and Ciara’s son, the person who keys Agnes and the others into Paddy’s dark side, all without saying a word. Finally, there is Kris Hitchen as Mike, Paddy and Ciara’s friendly neighborhood pub owner and chef, who turns out to have a similar dark side.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) and Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) and Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    There will always be those who decry remakes as unnecessary and creatively bankrupt. But when you have a film as inventive and entertaining as ‘Speak No Evil’ turned out to be, it’s a welcome reminder that that’s not always the case.

    While it won’t have anyone shocked in quite the same way as the original, the new version is certainly tense and thrilling, and will keep you guessing as it puts its characters through the wringer.

    Yes, it’s more straightforward, but it has its own dark charms.

    ‘Speak No Evil’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

    diz2MyQAy90vzIH7QyWDV5

    What is the plot of ‘Speak No Evil’?

    A dream holiday in a beautiful country house becomes a psychological nightmare.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Speak No Evil’?

    • James McAvoy as Paddy
    • Mackenzie Davis as Louise Dalton
    • Scoot McNairy as Ben Dalton
    • Aisling Franciosi as Ciara
    • Alix West Lefler as Agnes Dalton
    • Dan Hough as Ant
    (L to R) Ant (Dan Hough), Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), and Paddy (James McAvoy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Ant (Dan Hough), Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), and Paddy (James McAvoy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Other James McAvoy Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Speak No Evil’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy James McAvoy Movies on Amazon

    YFyiYLeR

     

  • ‘Speak No Evil’ Exclusive Interview: James McAvoy

    bE3ruJ5G

    Opening in theaters on September 13th is the new psychological thriller ‘Speak No Evil’, which was directed by James Watkins (‘The Woman in Black’) and is a remake of the 2022 Danish film of the same name.

    The movie stars James McAvoy (‘X-Men: First Class’ and ‘Split’), Mackenzie Davis (‘Terminator: Dark Fate’), Scoot McNairy (‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’), and Aisling Franciosi (‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’).

    Related Article: James McAvoy Making Directorial Debut with ‘California Schemin’’

    James McAvoy stars in 'Speak No Evil'.
    James McAvoy stars in ‘Speak No Evil’.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with James McAvoy to talk about his work on ‘Speak No Evil’, his first reaction to the screenplay, his approach to his character and his motivations, working with the cast, and collaborating on set with director James Watkins.

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Scoot McNairy and director James Watkins.

    (L to R) Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

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

    James McAvoy: There are two things. I really liked the fact that there was this couple that were good people, and they were unhappy, and they had a relationship that you would never wish on your worst enemy. Then you’ve got these bad people who are so incredibly deeply, passionately in love, and you know they’re having sex every other minute, and It’s the kind of relationship you could only dream of. I thought that was such a good juxtaposition to have the bad people be the thing you aspire to, and the good people be the thing you would never want to be.

    MF: Can you talk about your approach to playing Paddy and what are his true motivations?

    JM: I mean, his motivations are completely selfish and self-serving, and he’s a complete narcissist, and he’s a sociopath. He’s toxically masculine and happy about it, which is the key thing I think, was that as much as he’s all these bad things, he does have one thing that not everybody does. Lots of good people don’t have this. He has the secret to being happy. He’s got loads of rage issues, he’s got loads of anger, all that, and he’s abusive and he’s manipulative, but he’s happy and that is such a draw for people to be around. You can go like, how’s that person got there? I want to get there because so many good people don’t have that capacity, it seems.

    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) and Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Agnes Dalton (Alix West Lefler), Louise Dalton (Mackenzie Davis) and Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    MF: What was it like working with Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy?

    JM: Mackenzie and Scoot were incredible, as was Aisling who played Ciara, Paddy’s wife, but I think Louise played by Mackenzie is less vulnerable. She sees the problem that Paddy could present much earlier. Ben is played by Scoot, and he gives an incredible performance. Scoot is much more like Paddy in real life than I am, not sociopathic or dangerous, but he’s a man of the woods. He hunts and he can fix things and can build his own house. He’s much more Paddy than me, and he plays this injured, kind of hurt masculine creature so well, and so he’s much more vulnerable. If Paddy’s like a lion searching the herd for the lame beast that he can take down the easiest, when he sees Ben, he’s like, “That’s our mark. That’s who we want”. He’s just so ripe for the brainwashing that Paddy wants to perform.

    MF: The film deals with some dark subjects but also includes kids in the cast, what was it like working with them on set?

    JM: They were great. They had the summer of their lives. It was like two kids, similar age, running about a big farmstead with loads of countryside around us, searching for bugs and doing arts and crafts and doing class, and then coming in every now and again and doing a really messed up scene about abuse. So, it was interesting and strange to see just how relaxed and okay they were. We were constantly checking in with them, constantly checking in with their families and their chaperones to make sure everything was okay. But they seemed great, and so professional, admirably professional like up there with Saoirse Ronan when she was 12 years old professional. They were brilliant.

    (L to R) James McAvoy (as Dalton) and Director James Watkins on the set of 'Speak No Evil'.
    (L to R) James McAvoy (as Dalton) and Director James Watkins on the set of ‘Speak No Evil’.

    MF: Finally, what was James Watkins like to work with as a director on set?

    JM: He’s free, open, really welcoming of ideas and suggestions, but at the same time, tightly calibrating and orchestrating this tightrope walk, which on one side of it has a lot of comedy, and then the other side has a lot of scares and fear and horror, but you can’t really jump either side until the end of the movie. You’ve got to stay on that tightrope so that both things are always possible. But he was brilliant. He had it so tightly wound.

    diz2MyQAy90vzIH7QyWDV5

    What is the plot of ‘Speak No Evil’?

    A dream holiday in a beautiful country house becomes a psychological nightmare.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Speak No Evil’?

    • James McAvoy as Paddy
    • Mackenzie Davis as Louise Dalton
    • Scoot McNairy as Ben Dalton
    • Aisling Franciosi as Ciara
    • Alix West Lefler as Agnes Dalton
    • Dan Hough as Ant
    (L to R) Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) and Paddy (James McAvoy) in 'Speak No Evil', directed by James Watkins.
    (L to R) Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy) and Paddy (James McAvoy) in ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by James Watkins.

    Other James McAvoy Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Speak No Evil’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy James McAvoy Movies on Amazon

     

  • CinemaCon 2024: Universal Pictures Presentation

    Ryan Gosling is Colt Seavers in 'The Fall Guy,' directed by David Leitch.
    Ryan Gosling is Colt Seavers in ‘The Fall Guy,’ directed by David Leitch. © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • ‘Wicked’, ‘Twisters’ and more were showcased at Universal’s CinemaCon show.
    • There was news of sequels to ‘M3GAN’ and ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s.
    • The likes of Jon M. Chu and Glen Powell showed up to support their films.

    Universal enjoyed a successful 2023 on several counts, not the least of which was the explosive popularity of Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’, which did well at both the box office and awards season. Plus there were the horror likes of ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s and the big family hit that was ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’. True, there were also the downsides –– ‘Fast X’ didn’t quite deliver in terms of that giant franchise, while ‘Renfield’ and ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’ struggled.

    But for the most part, we’re expecting the studio to celebrate its big win, and look forward to a slate that includes giant windy natural disasters (plus star Glen Powell), a new entry for its money-printing ‘Despicable Me’ franchise and what it is hoping will be a magical adaptation of iconic stage musical ‘Wicked’.

    And the company is also including 2024 offerings from its Focus arm, so we’re anticipating the likes of Robert Eggers’ vampire tale ‘Nosferatu’.

    Willem Dafoe stars as Professor Albin Eberhart von Franz in director Robert Eggers’ 'Nosferatu,' a Focus Features release.
    Willem Dafoe stars as Professor Albin Eberhart von Franz in director Robert Eggers’ ‘Nosferatu,’ a Focus Features release. Credit: Aidan Monaghan / © 2023 Focus Features LLC.

    Unsurprisingly, the studio kicked things off with a sizzle reel highlighting the big names it collaborates with –– Jordan Peele, Christopher Nolan, some youthful chancer called… we want to say, Stevie… Spielberg? –– very much highlighting its relationships and celebrating last year’s big release.

    President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution Jim Orr touted the fact that more than 75% of the studio’s releases are original movies, with some hoping to launch new franchises. But his focus was also on ‘Wicked’, letting off a bright green flare and promising that the company will be turning theaters green “you got that, right? Y’all are wicked smart.” Yes, Jim. We got it.

    Ryan Gosling is Colt Seavers in 'The Fall Guy,' directed by David Leitch.
    Ryan Gosling is Colt Seavers in ‘The Fall Guy,’ directed by David Leitch. © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    After bringing Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt to CinemaCon last year for ‘The Fall Guy’, the studio kicked off this year’s event with a full screening of the movie, so we doubt there will be too much chatter about it this time around.

    rmpbgAExPwfTyXKruCLje7

    Christopher Nolan sent a video message along –– not, to announce a new film with Universal, but to thank theater owners for their support and reminding them that his journey to promote ‘Oppenheimer’ began at last year’s event.

    Now, though to the future…

    There was a brief mention of the new ‘Bridget Jones’ movie (more on that here), which is confirmed for February 14th next year.

    Related Article: ‘The Crow’, ‘Borderlands’ Showcased at Lionsgate’s CinemaCon Presentation

    Despicable Me 4’ and More

    'Despicable Me 4'.
    ‘Despicable Me 4’. Photo: Illumination.

    Illumination boss Chris Meledandri arrived on stage to whip up support for his animated efforts. And yes, he mentioned that a new ‘Super Mario Bros.’ movie is indeed on the way in April 2026, which is hardly shocking given the success of the original.

    And, of course, a sequence from ‘Despicable Me 4’, which offers much of the expected madness with Gru and co. (and you’ll have seen some of it in the trailer). Will Ferrell is confirmed as the villain, with word that Stephen Colbert is also in the cast. Pharrell Williams is confirmed to be back providing music.

    ‘Despicable Me 4’ lands in theaters on July 5th.

    XjmCoHB8RPjAIvn1cMN7c4

    With that complete, time to learn what’s blowing in the wind…

    Twisters

    Twin Twisters, in 'Twisters' directed by Lee Isaac Chung.
    Twin Twisters, in ‘Twisters’ directed by Lee Isaac Chung.

    The new movie’s director Lee Isaac Chung is best known for the far smaller, much-respected indie ‘Minari’, so of course he addresses what is foremost in audience’s minds: why tackle a big franchise entry about tornadoes.

    Turns out, it’s his Midwest background –– he grew up in tornado territory, so he brings something personal to the movie about Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glenn Powell chasing twisters. Chung’s intent was to make an immersive movie, and to make us all appreciate the terrifying power of nature. He worked with weather scientists and experts to get the details right and had real-life storm chasers on the crew.

    He also name drops Steven Spielberg (a tornado obsessive whose first movie was a tornado epic shot in his bathtub), who taught him a lot about filming them.

    (from left) Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), Javi (Anthony Ramos), and Tyler (Glen Powell), in 'Twisters' directed by Lee Isaac Chung.
    (from left) Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), Javi (Anthony Ramos), and Tyler (Glen Powell), in ‘Twisters’ directed by Lee Isaac Chung.

    Stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos joined their director on stage to offer up the usual anecdotes about filming in blazing heat and being pelted with water, air, ice, and more (to remind us of their commitment, Powell and Ramos once more faced water, fake debris and –– of course! –– a cow, albeit inflatable, on stage).

    They’re also here to key up some footage from the film. A rodeo is disrupted, and Powell and co. head off on their chasing mission. There’s a glimpse of Dorothy, the storm-testing device from the original movie.

    And the two giant twisters from the trailer combine into one giant super tornado. It’s very much the “‘Twister’… but bigger” energy from the first released footage.

    ‘Twisters’ heads to theaters on July 19th.

    mDXG2lt1ito40nvany2aY4

    From natural action to supernatural horror, and beyond…

    The next sizzle reel highlighted the studio’s more recent horror legacy, including collaborations with Jordan Peele and James Wan.

    And confirmation that sequels to both ‘M3GAN’ and ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s will appear next year –– ‘M3GAN 2.0’ in May, ‘Freddy’s in the fall.

    mZYHi5iOIN9XrRLeJ8U644

    But the first actual presentation from the genre is for…

    Wolf Man

    Since ‘Wolf Man’ is in production, there was just a brief clip introduced by director Leigh Whannell, featuring stars Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner. It’ll see a father (Abbott) trying to protect his family from a threat. Only… he’s the threat.

    ‘Wolf Man’ will be in theaters on January 17th, 2025.

    Onto…

    Speak No Evil

    James McAvoy in 'Speak No Evil.'
    James McAvoy in ‘Speak No Evil.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Director James Watkins introduced the horror thriller starring James McAvoy, Scott McNairy and Mackenzie Davis about a family invited to spend a weekend at an idyllic holiday retreat, only for things to go very scare shaped when the father of the family (McAvoy) reveals a darker side..

    Watkins keyed up the first look at the trailer.

    vERo3XlI

    ‘Speak No Evil’ is due in theaters on September 13th.

    diz2MyQAy90vzIH7QyWDV5

    Next, it was the turn of Focus Features to showcase its slate, introduced to the music of Amy Winehouse (the focus of upcoming biopic ‘Back to Black’).

    Eschewing a bigger presentation, it was largely a sizzle reel of footage from the company’s upcoming releases, including the aforementioned ‘Back to Black’ (due on May 17th) and pope-focused drama ‘Conclave‘ ( November 1st), which stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and more.

    Perhaps the most exciting was the first look at footage from Robert Eggers’ new horror, ‘Nosferatu’. The director’s take on the classic vampire tale looks suitably intense and creepy, with Willem Dafoe at the forefront of the clips.

    It’ll be in theaters on December 25th –– because Christmas always needs vampires.

    9AsVzkZWOeFuvGl1R1oWz5

    More family-friendly fare was to follow…

    The Wild Robot

    (from back center) Roz (Lupita N’yongo), and Brightbill (Kit Connor) in DreamWorks Animation’s 'Wild Robot,' directed by Chris Sanders.
    (from back center) Roz (Lupita N’yongo), and Brightbill (Kit Connor) in DreamWorks Animation’s ‘Wild Robot,’ directed by Chris Sanders.

    The new animated charmer, featuring the voice of Lupita Nyong’o and more, and already has a trailer online (you can see it here).

    But if we’re honest, it was all preamble to the biggest movie that Universal is pinning its hopes on being popular…

    ‘The Wild Robot’ will be on screens on September 20th.

    qkz7nE8gcV5r1TIQtYQ2n

    Wicked

    'Wicked,' opens in theaters on November 27th.
    ‘Wicked,’ opens in theaters on November 27th.

    With posters adorning the walls outside Caesar’s Palace forum, tulips in all the cupholders and light up green lanyards handed out before the presentation, Jon M. Chu’s big adaptation of the hit stage musical is a two-part gamble on the largest scale.

    Jeff Goldblum’s giant golden head kicks things off on screen… and he steps out (from behind the curtain, as befits the Wizard of Oz) to enthuse in true Goldblumian style how “dreamy” the making of the movie was –– practical sets and all.

    Producer Marc Platt and director Chu are up next, who in turn introduce members of the cast (including Michelle Yeoh, who chides her ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and ‘Wicked’ director for always casting her as “mean” characters.

    The last to take the stare are stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who talk about how much the movie(s) mean to them.

    Footage from the film encompassed snatches from several of the musical’s big tunes, including ‘Popular’ and act one show-stopper ‘Defying Gravity’. It ends with Erivo’s Elphaba (who will become known as the Wicked Witch of the West) claiming her broomstick. “You can do this, you can do anything,” Grande’s Glinda tells her. “I’m not afraid,” Elphaba replies, “It’s the wizard who should be afraid of me….”

    Oh, and we learned that Peter Dinklage is in the movie as the voice of Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor at the show’s Shiz University who befriends Elphaba.

    What was shown was certainly impressive and bodes well for fan expectations.

    ‘Wicked’ is flying into theaters in those two parts –– the first on November 27th this year, followed by the second on November 26th, 2025.

    RQxhOkO0isYC870cad8Zg4

    Upcoming Universal Movies:

    Buy Universal Movies On Amazon

  • James McAvoy Starring in ‘Speak No Evil’

    James McAvoy as Kevin Wendell Crumb in 2016's 'Split.'
    James McAvoy as Kevin Wendell Crumb in 2016’s ‘Split.’

    James McAvoy was at the core of two big Blumhouse horror movies in recent years –– M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘Split’ and its allied follow-up to ‘Unbreakable’, ‘Glass’.

    But while Shyamalan has moved on to other subjects, McAvoy is reuniting with the company for a new film, a remake of 2022 Danish thriller ‘Speak No Evil’.

    K2MyHnwU2rEaGcxKB9u3l1

    What’s the story of ‘Speak No Evil’?

    The basic synopsis for the original movie reads as follows… “A Danish family visits a Dutch family they met on a holiday. What was supposed to be an idyllic weekend slowly starts unraveling as the Danes try to stay polite in the face of unpleasantness.”

    Suffice to say, it really doesn’t end well for one side of that story, but we won’t dig into it any further to avoid spoiling anything. Director Christian Tafdrup wrote the script with brother Mads, and the new movie will be based on their screenplay.

    We would expect though, there to be some significant thematic changes for American audiences, as the original dips into some Eurocentric views on politics. But with commentary on fascism running through it, that’s something that a new movie could certainly also draw from that, given the state of American politics.

    'M3GAN' producer and CEO of Blumhouse Productions Jason Blum.
    ‘M3GAN’ producer and CEO of Blumhouse Productions Jason Blum.

    Who is making the new movie?

    James Watkins, the British director who has made movies such as cult thriller ‘Eden Lake’ and the wildly successful, Daniel Radcliffe-starring ‘The Woman in Black’, which became the most profitable British horror title in history, earning more than $129 million worldwide, is on for the remake.

    Watkins, who has also made terror sequel ‘The Descent: Part 2’ and branched out beyond the horror genre for crime drama ‘Bastille Day’ and small screen entries such as ‘Black Mirror’ episode “Shut Up and Dance” and crime thriller series ‘McMafia’, has written the script and will make the new movie.

    He most recently oversaw an update of a much older title –– a TV adaptation of 1965 spy thriller movie ‘The Ipcress File.’

    As usual, Blumhouse boss Jason Blum will be among the producers alongside Christian Tafdrup, Paul Ritchie, Jacob Jarek, and Bea Sequeira, serving as executive producers.

    McAvoy is no stranger to remakes –– he was seen in 2021’s ‘My Son’, which was drawn from 2017 French thriller ‘Mon Garcon’. And he was more recently back on TV screens as Lord Asriel in the third and final season of book adaptation ‘His Dark Materials. In addition to that, he appeared on stage in ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ and worked with Sharon Horgan in the BBC’s COVID lockdown-set ‘Together’, which was nominated for a Scottish BAFTA.

    Blumhouse and Universal are clearly confident in this one, with a flag already planted on August 9th, 2024, as a release date.

    James McAvoy as Kevin Wendell Crumb in 2019's 'Glass.'
    James McAvoy as Kevin Wendell Crumb in 2019’s ‘Glass.’

    Other Blumhouse Productions Movies:

    Buy Blumhouse Movies On Amazon