Moviefone Editorial

Tag: Sydney Sweeney

  • ‘Eden’ Exclusive Interview: Director Ron Howard

    fvurBwMy

    Opening in theaters on August 22nd is the new survival thriller ‘Eden’, which was directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard (‘A Beautiful Mind’ and ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’) and stars Jude Law (‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’), Vanessa Kirby (‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’), Daniel Brühl (‘Captain America: Civil War’), Sydney Sweeney (‘Madame Web’), and Ana de Armas (‘Ballerina‘).

    'Eden' director Ron Howard.
    ‘Eden’ director Ron Howard.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with legendary director Ron Howard about his work on ‘Eden’, the true story it is based on, why he was passionate about making it, working with the all-star cast, and overcoming unforeseen challenges shooting on location in Australia.

    qJbzGlcXK9cJ2FujFFYPn5

    Related Article: Director Ron Howard and Colin Farrell Talk Prime Video’s ‘Thirteen Lives’

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

    Ron Howard on the set of 'Eden'. Photo: Jasin Boland.
    Ron Howard on the set of ‘Eden’. Photo: Jasin Boland.

    Moviefone: To begin with, Congratulations on the movie. Is this a film that you had wanted to make for some time?

    Ron Howard: Thank you, thank you very much. It was an exciting one creatively. I’d been dreaming of making it for about 15 years, finally got the courage, mostly because we had a good screenplay written on spec by Noah Pink, and a brave group ensemble of talented actors. I thought, “Well, what the hell? I’m outside my comfort zone, but I’m not alone. Let’s make this movie.”

    Ana de Armas stars in 'Eden'. Photo: Vertical.
    Ana de Armas stars in ‘Eden’. Photo: Vertical.

    MF: What intrigued you about the true story that the film is based on and why were you so passionate about getting this movie made?

    RH: Twist and turns, and the wide variety of characters and personality types, and some of them are very extreme personalities, wild, bigger than life people. Yet, you know, they lived this experience, and they are as we depict them. In fact, we’ve probably dialed them back a little bit from what they really were. They were real outliers. But I felt like that combination and the fact that what they lived ultimately was a true crime thriller. I mean, it’s like a season of ‘Survivor’, only people died. You couldn’t have cast this collision of personalities and characters in a more compelling way that’s it’s kind of funny at times. It’s sexy at times. It’s noble in places, and sometimes it’s terrifying. So, I thought it was a unique blend.

    Sydney Sweeney stars in 'Eden'. Photo: Vertical.
    Sydney Sweeney stars in ‘Eden’. Photo: Vertical.

    MF: You’ve truly assembled an all-star cast with this film. Can you talk about assembling the cast and working with them on set?

    RH: Well, we worked fast because this was a lower budget movie. People weren’t taking their normal salaries by any stretch of the imagination, nor was I. It was a labor of love, but it was a unique opportunity for a film like this to get made. The more they did research into the real events, the more excited they were about it. We just created a strong ensemble and I committed to trying to let every character be as dynamic, entertaining and engrossing as possible, and they just gave it everything they had. The circumstances were raw. We were filming outdoors. It was hot and poisonous snakes and spiders were around and everything. I mean, it wasn’t quite like being on a desert island, but it had its challenges that they were able to draw upon as well. So, it was an adventure making the movie.

    (L to R) Daniel Brühl and Jude Law star in 'Eden'. Photo: Vertical.
    (L to R) Daniel Brühl and Jude Law star in ‘Eden’. Photo: Vertical.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about shooting on location in Australia, the unforeseen challenges of shooting there and how you overcame them to complete the movie?

    RH: Well, because we were shooting the dialogue scenes, not in the Galapagos, because that’s a game preserve, you could never stage enough scenes and so forth there and get licensed and cleared to shoot that. So, we did that in Australia and weather, lightning storms, two or three nights or two or three afternoons a week that would drive us to cover. But one time the camera operator was shooting the scene, it’s this argument scene. People have guns. It’s all kinds of tension, swirling around. Suddenly, it was a female camera operator, and she stood up and shrieked. “What was it?” It’s because a poisonous snake had slithered across her boot while she was looking through the camera, and she looked down and felt it, and freaked out. We had snake wranglers looking for venomous snakes from two hours before we started shooting, and throughout the day, and the snakes quickly slither off. No one was bitten, no problem, but we had to shut down and wait until they could safely find the snake, catch the snake, and safely transport the snake. We had a place where we could take the snakes. It was like a reserve, and that kind of thing happened about every two or three days. So, that was one of the unexpected challenges.

    (L to R) Jude Law and Vanessa Kirby on the set of 'Eden'. Photo: Jasin Boland.
    (L to R) Jude Law and Vanessa Kirby on the set of ‘Eden’. Photo: Jasin Boland.

    What is the plot of ‘Eden’?

    Director Ron Howard’s ‘Eden’ unravels the shocking true story of a group of disillusioned outsiders who abandon civilization, settling on a remote, uninhabited island only to discover that the greatest threat isn’t the brutal climate or deadly wildlife, but each other. As tensions spiral and desperation takes hold, a twisted power struggle unfolds, leading to betrayal, violence, and the deaths of half the colony.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Eden’?

    • Jude Law as Dr. Friedrich Ritter
    • Vanessa Kirby as Dora Strauch Ritter
    • Daniel Brühl as Heinz Wittmer
    • Sydney Sweeney as Margret Wittmer
    • Ana de Armas as Baroness Eloise Bosquet de Wagner Wehrhorn
    • Jonathan Tittel as Harry Wittmer
    • Richard Roxburgh as Allan Hancock
    • Toby Wallace as Robert Phillipson
    • Felix Kammerer as Rudolph Lorenz
    'Eden' opens in theaters on August 22nd. Photo: Vertical.
    ‘Eden’ opens in theaters on August 22nd. Photo: Vertical.

    List of Ron Howard Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Eden’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Ron Howard Movies on Amazon

  • Sydney Sweeney to Star in ‘Split Fiction’ Movie

    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO. (Right) Jon M. Chu arrives on the red carpet of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Credit/Provider: Etienne Laurent / The Academy. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.
    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO. (Right) Jon M. Chu arrives on the red carpet of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Credit/Provider: Etienne Laurent / The Academy. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney is aboard to star in ‘Split Fiction.’
    • ‘Wicked’ director Jon M. Chu will handle the game adaptation.
    • The duo is currently looking for a distributor for the project.

    There are, it appears, two things that Hollywood just can’t get enough of for its project: video game source material and Sydney Sweeney in a lead role.

    In the cinematic equivalent of “two great tastes that taste great together,” Sweeney is already on board for a film based on arcade and console classic ‘OutRun’ that also happens to have Michael Bay attached as its potential director.

    GxOsxIjXhkC1bntUae1WV

    Yet that’s clearly not enough for the actor, who is also now part of a package that has companies ready to open their wallets to score it: Variety reports that Sweeney’s on for an adaptation of Hazelight Studios and Electronic Arts’ ‘Split Fiction,’ with red-hot ‘Wicked’ director Jon M. Chu also involved.

    According to Variety, the package also includes script work from ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ duo Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese that already has big bids under way from companies such as Sony and Amazon MGM (which Deadline reports appears to be closer to a deal).

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney and Michael Bay to Make a Movie Based on Sega’s ‘OutRun’

    What’s the story of ‘Split Fiction’?

    'Split Fiction'. Photo: Amazon.
    ‘Split Fiction’. Photo: Amazon.

    ‘Split Fiction’ blends fantasy and science fiction, following a pair of authors, Mio and Zoe, who become trapped in the worlds they wrote.

    Written by director and Hazelight studio chief Josef Fares and Sebastian Johansson, the title is a co-op adventure game that features gameplay mechanics involving split-screen combat, platforming challenges and differing abilities for each character.

    The game has been a rising star of the industry since its release in March. game quickly became a hit with players and critics alike, receiving positive reviews and massive sales. According to Hazelight, the game sold more than two million copies in the first week following its launch, and that number continues to rise at a rapid pace.

    Any new movie will be produced by Mike Goldberg and Dmitri M. Johnson’s Story Kitchen (formerly dj2 Entertainment), Chu’s Electric Somewhere. Sweeney is set to be an executive producer.

    What else is Sydney Sweeney working on?

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Sweeney’s current schedule is as packed as anyone’s in Hollywood.

    Her rise really kicked into high gear with  ‘Anyone But You’ opposite fellow star Glen Powell and Neon horror thriller ‘Immaculate.’

    She followed those up with one that she might wish to vanish from her resume, misfiring Spider-Man spin-off ‘Madame Web.’

    The actor also filmed the Ron Howard-directed thriller ‘Eden’ about a society of people who opt to start a new life in the Galapagos islands, only for things to wrong. That one should be in theaters this year.

    She has shot the Lionsgate adaptation of the novel ‘The Housemaid,’ which has Paul Feig in the director’s chair, and has worked on two other movies, ‘Echo Valley’ about a woman (played by Julianne Moore) whose life is turned upside down when her daughter (Sweeney) shows up covered in someone else’s blood, and a biopic of real-life boxer Christy Martin, with Sweeney in the lead role (not to mention it’s another movie she produced).

    Still to come is a starring role in Colman Domingo’s film ‘Scandalous!,’ which will see her playing Kim Novak in the story of the actor’s controversial relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. (played by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson).

    And that list doesn’t even include the potential movies to which she is attached: that list includes a remake of sci-fi comedy ‘Barbarella,’ thriller ‘The Caretaker’ and a drama called ‘The Registration.’

    More recently, she was linked to the attempt to make a live-action ‘Gundam’ movie.

    Finally, we have HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ whose much-delayed third season which has at least been shot for a 2026 release.

    What else does Jon M. Chu have going on?

    'Wicked' director Jon M. Chu.
    ‘Wicked’ director Jon M. Chu.

    Right now, Chu is deep into the editing and fine-tuning process for ‘Wicked: For Good,’ the second film about the witches of Oz that serves as a prequel to what happens in ‘The Wizard of Oz.’

    ‘Wicked,’ based on both the stage musical and the Gregory Maguire novel it itself is sourced from, became one of the biggest box office hits of last year, with more than $755 million at the box office and two Oscars in its trophy cabinet.

    ‘For Good’ will be with us on November 21st.

    Beyond that, Chu is also a man in demand. He’s the director attached to an animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss tome ‘Oh! The Places You’ll Go!’ which has quite the team behind it –– J.J. Abrams and his Bad Robot team are aboard to co-produce, and the movie will boast song by no less a duo than ‘La La Land’ and ‘The Greatest Showman’ EGOT winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.

    Jon M. Chu accepts the award for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, airing live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    Jon M. Chu accepts the award for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, airing live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Oh! The Places You’ll Go!,’ written in the author’s usual rhyming form, begins with the narrator, relating the decision of the unnamed protagonist (who represents the reader) to leave town.

    The protagonist travels through several geometrical and polychromatic landscapes and places, eventually encountering a place simply called “The Waiting Place,” which is ominously addressed as being a place where everyone is always waiting for something to happen.

    As the protagonist continues to explore, spurred on by the thoughts of places he will visit and things he will discover, the book cheerfully concludes with an open ending.

    And then there’s the new TV version of ‘Swiss Family Robinson,’ which he’s aboard as director and producer, and the small screen spin-off of ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ that now appears to be the way that story will continue after Chu’s successful 2018 movie.

    When will ‘Split Fiction’ arrive on screens?

    Without a studio home in place yet, it’s far too early to tell when this might get anywhere near theaters or any other screen.

    Sweeney, as we note above, has a variety of projects on the go, and Chu will be in ‘Wicked’ world at least until November when the second movie is released.

    Sydney Sweeney talks 'Immaculate.'
    Sydney Sweeney talks ‘Immaculate.’

    Sydney Sweeney Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies on Amazon

    iqtL7kRI

     

  • Sydney Sweeney and Michael Bay Driven to ‘OutRun’

    (Left) Sydney Sweeney at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas. Photo: Lionsgate. (Right) Michael Bay attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Columbia Pictures' 'Bad Boys: Ride Or Die' at the TCL Chinese Theater on May 30, 2024 in Hollywood, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Getty Images for Sony Pictures.
    (Left) Sydney Sweeney at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas. Photo: Lionsgate. (Right) Michael Bay attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Columbia Pictures’ ‘Bad Boys: Ride Or Die’ at the TCL Chinese Theater on May 30, 2024 in Hollywood, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Getty Images for Sony Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney and Michael Bay are teaming up for an ‘OutRun’ adaptation.
    • It’ll be drawn from the popular 1980s arcade/video game franchise.
    • Jayson Rothwell will write the script.

    Here’s what we’d describe as both a surprising and yet understandable combo of talent and subject.

    While we’re not certain we had Sydney Sweeney and Michael Bay teaming up on our 2025 bingo card, the idea that they’d be coming together to work on a video game adaptation might top that for its unlikely quality.

    Still, given that Sweeney has been increasingly getting into the producing side of movie-making and Bay has a little bit of experience with action, maybe we should all have seen their collaboration on an adaptation of classic 1980s Sega title ‘OutRun’ heading our way –– at least, potentially.

    According to Deadline, Bay will direct the new movie for Universal, with Sweeney –– at least so far –– only aboard to produce rather than making a deal to star. Of course, if the script takes a shape she’s interested in, expect her to take a role, even if it’s supporting part, to get this one made.

    Toru Nakahara (who worked on the likes of ‘Sonic the Hedgehog) will also produce for Sega, while the company’s president and COO Shuji Utsumi will oversee development.

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney in Negotiations to Star in Legendary’s ‘Gundam’ Movie

    What’s the story of ‘OutRun’?

    'OutRun' video game. Photo: Youtube.
    ‘OutRun’ video game. Photo: Youtube.

    With video games enjoying a huge moment on screens big and small (‘Minecraft’ continues to build at the box office, while ‘The Last of Us’ returned to HBO and Max with a bang a couple of weeks ago, and just released its most impactful episode so far), it’s hardly surprising that other companies would be rooting through titles to find possibilities.

    Universal itself has already seen success in the sphere with ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ and ‘Five Nights at Freddie’s both launching film franchises.

    The initial struggle with ‘OutRun’ is that it features no traditional narrative: this is a pseudo-3D driving video game in which the player controls a Ferrari Testarossa convertible from a third-person rear perspective. The object of the game is to reach the finish line against a timer.

    Still ‘OutRun,’ which Sega debuted in arcade cabinet form back in 1986 and saw become its most successful arcade title of the decade, has enjoyed a long-running embrace by game fans since being ported to variety of consoles and systems, spawning a franchise.

    Jayson Rothwell, whose credits include Netflix thriller ‘Polar,’ comedy horror mystery ‘Silent Night’ [2012] and 2004 horror thriller ‘Blessed’ is the scriptwriter who will be figuring out how it works as a movie.

    I4uiCgfrVm9v0V1Pk8VlB5

    There have been different approaches to titles such as this in the past –– the more recent ‘Gran Turismo’ took the novel idea of focusing on a real-life player of the game becoming a driver, while the less successful (in every sense) 2014 effort ‘Need for Speed’ looked to put a crime thriller coat on the racing action.

    And let’s not forget that “Bayhem” isn’t a term by accident (except for the many spectacular vehicular collisions he’s brought to screens on purpose); the director knows how to stage a set piece with real momentum.

    What else is Sydney Sweeney working on?

    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in 'Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in ‘Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Sweeney’s current schedule is as packed as anyone’s in Hollywood.

    Last year included the continued success of hit rom-com ‘Anyone But You’ opposite fellow rising star Glen Powell and Neon horror thriller ‘Immaculate.’

    She followed those up with one that she might wish to vanish from her resume, misfiring Spider-Man spin-off ‘Madame Web.’

    The actor also filmed the Ron Howard-directed thriller ‘Eden’ about a society of people who opt to start a new life in the Galapagos islands, only for things to wrong. That one should be in theaters this year.

    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    She has shot the Lionsgate adaptation of the novel ‘The Housemaid,’ which has Paul Feige in the director’s chair, and has worked on two other movies, ‘Echo Valley’ about a woman (played by Julianne Moore) whose life is turned upside down when her daughter (Sweeney) shows up covered in someone else’s blood, and a biopic of real-life boxer Christy Martin, with Sweeney in the lead role (not to mention it’s another movie she produced).

    Still to come is a starring role in Colman Domingo’s film ‘Scandalous!,’ which will see her playing Kim Novak in the story of the actor’s controversial relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. (played by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson).

    And that list doesn’t even include the potential movies to which she is attached: that list includes a remake of sci-fi comedy ‘Barbarella,’ thriller ‘The Caretaker’ and a drama called ‘The Registration.’

    More recently, she was linked to the attempt to make a live-action ‘Gundam’ movie.

    Finally, we have HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ whose much-delayed third season which is finally filming now for a 2026 release.

    What else is Michael Bay working on?

    Producer Brad Fischer, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Director/Producer Michael Bay, Eiza González and Jake Gyllenhaal attend Universal Pictures 'Ambulance' Premiere at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, CA on Monday, April 4, 2022.
    (L to R) Producer Brad Fischer, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Director/Producer Michael Bay, Eiza González and Jake Gyllenhaal attend Universal Pictures ‘Ambulance’ Premiere at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, CA on Monday, April 4, 2022. Photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages.

    Bay, who has been working as a filmmaker longer than his new collaborator has been alive, is busy as both a director and a producer.

    While his most recent feature directorial gig was 2022 action thriller ‘Ambulance,’ he’s got parkour documentary ‘We Are Storror,’ which follows the daring and successful Parkour team, who have amassed a huge following on YouTube. The doc premiered at SXSW on March 8th.

    As a producer, his Platinum Dunes company has backed a number of recent movies, including ‘Drop,’ ‘Transformers One’ and ‘A Quiet Place: Day One.’

    And as usual, he has a vast array of projects in development under both sides of his output, including the long-gestating ‘Robopocalypse,’ a crossover between the ‘Transformers’ and ‘G.I. Joe’ properties and a third main ‘A Quiet Place’ outing.

    When will ‘OutRun’ be in theaters?

    Universal has yet to announce anything close to a release date for this one, so we’ll have to be patient for now. Cool your engines, people!

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.'
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Sydney Sweeney Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies on Amazon

    iqtL7kRI

  • Sydney Sweeney in Talks for ‘Gundam’ Movie

    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in 'The White Lotus' season 1. Photo: Mario Perez/HBO. (Right) 1979's 'Mobile Suit Gundam'. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.
    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in ‘The White Lotus’ season 1. Photo: Mario Perez/HBO. (Right) 1979’s ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney is in talks to take a lead role in ‘Gundam.’
    • It’ll be the first live-action adaptation of the long-running anime franchise.
    • ‘Sweet Tooth’ series boss Jim Mickle is aboard to write and direct.

    Having lingered around development limbo for a few years now, the live-action adaptation of giant anime franchise ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ looks set to get an upgrade in its star power.

    GJViYmmnj3JDePJ7t8eOj5

    According to reporter Jeff Sneider, no less a rising star than Sydney Sweeney is in talks to snag one of the lead roles in what is currently only known as ‘Gundam.’

    While a sci-fi movie about hulking, mechanized suits doing battle might seem like an odd turn for her career, Sweeney has shown an admirable willingness to hop around genres, embracing horror and others.

    It also marks the first real signs of movement for the movie itself.

    Which brings us to…

    What is ‘Gundam’?

    1979's 'Mobile Suit Gundam'. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.
    1979’s ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.

    One of the most revered animé, ‘Gundam’ is thought of as the ‘Star Wars’ or Marvel Universe of Japan, and is the pioneer of the mecha genre of IP.

    Created by Yoshiyuki Tomino, the ‘Gundam’ franchise spans 83 animated series and movies. Its toy and retail business are huge, with the various products and projects generating over $600 million annually.

    The original anime, 1979 series ‘Mobile Suit Gundam,’ is set in the Universal Century, an era in which humanity’s growing population has led people to emigrate to space colonies.

    Eventually, the people living in the colonies seek their autonomy, and launch a war of independence against the people living on Earth. The battles in the story are fought by the characters piloting robots known as mobile suits.

    Part of the mecha genre, the sci-fi subgenre that centers on robots in combat (and usually they are giant robots), it veered from the formula followed by its mecha predecessors in a manner that added dramatic new tones and textures to the genre.

    Previously, the giant robots in mecha stories were presented as almost magical devices with celebrity pilots who operated them via remote control or command. Tomino found those Aladdin-with-a-robot tales flimsy so he re-envisioned them as colossal weapons at the center of a complex military epic.

    The giant robots, like Flying Fortress, had crews with ace pilots and everyman mechanics, which lent new perspectives, pathos, and battlefield energy to the saga and then to its genre.

    We can trace the likes of ‘Pacific Rim’ to the legacy of the ‘Gundam’ stories, while the character also appeared in Steven Spielberg‘s ‘Ready Player One‘.

    What has happened with the ‘Gundam’ movie so far?

    1979's 'Mobile Suit Gundam'. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.
    1979’s ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’. Photo: Nippon Sunrise.

    Back in 2019, we learned that ‘Y: The Last Man,’ ‘Ex Machina’ and ‘Runaways’ comic book creator Brian K. Vaughan (who has worked on the TV likes of ‘Lost’ and shows spawned from his titles) was hired to start work on a screenplay for Legendary’s live-action take on the ‘Gundam’ adventures –– the first to move it from the animated sphere.

    That was followed in 2021 by word that ‘Kong: Skull Island’ director Jordan Vogt-Roberts would be calling the shots on the new movie, which had found a home at Netflix.

    But by the time 2024 rolled around, neither Netflix nor Vogt-Roberts were attached, and Legendary had instead hired ‘Sweet Tooth’ showrunner (and horror movie ‘Stake Land’ director) Jim Mickle to tackle the story instead.

    He was brought in to also write a new draft of the script; presumably it’s this that has sparked Sweeney’s attention.

    Still, it really needs to stand out to make it on to her crowded To Do list…

    What else is Sydney Sweeney working on?

    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in 'Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in ‘Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Sweeney’s current schedule is as packed as anyone’s in Hollywood.

    Last year included the continued success of hit rom-com ‘Anyone But You’ opposite fellow rising star Glen Powell and Neon horror thriller ‘Immaculate.’

    She followed those up with one that she might wish to vanish from her resume, misfiring Spider-Man spin-off ‘Madame Web.’

    The actor also filmed the Ron Howard-directed thriller ‘Eden’ about a society of people who opt to start a new life in the Galapagos islands, only for things to wrong. That one should be in theaters this year.

    She has shot the Lionsgate adaptation of the novel ‘The Housemaid,’ which has Paul Feige in the director’s chair, and has worked on two other movies, ‘Echo Valley’ about a woman (played by Julianne Moore) whose life is turned upside down when her daughter (Sweeney) shows up covered in someone else’s blood, and a biopic of real-life boxer Christy Martin, with Sweeney in the lead role (not to mention it’s another movie she produced).

    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    Still to come is a starring role in Colman Domingo’s film ‘Scandalous!,’ which will see her playing Kim Novak in the story of the actor’s controversial relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. (played by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson).

    And that list doesn’t even include the potential movies to which she is attached: that list includes a remake of sci-fi comedy ‘Barbarella,’ thriller ‘The Caretaker’ and a drama called ‘The Registration.’

    Finally, we have HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ whose much-delayed third season which is finally filming now for a 2026 release.

    Here’s what she told Cosmopolitan about the show’s return:

    “We did have a long time between season one and season two, but especially now with the time jump, it’s a new process for me. I’m kind of just learning as I go and being open for whatever’s to come. But I’m also really excited. I love Cassie. She is always such a thrilling character to play, so I’m really looking forward to what’s gonna happen in her life.”

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney Talks ‘Immaculate’ and Why She Loves Horror Movies

    When would the ‘Gundam’ movie be on screens?

    Legendary has yet to announce when the movie might hit screens, and given that the company usually partners up with a studio for distribution, we’ll have to wait and see where it lands.

    But if Sweeney does sign on, it’ll certainly get a boost in the right direction.

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Sydney Sweeney Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies on Amazon

    iqtL7kRI

     

  • CinemaCon 2025: Lionsgate Films Presentation

    The Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    The Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    Preview:

    • Lionsgate brought the likes of ‘Ballerina’ and the new ‘Now You See Me’ to CinemaCon.
    • The likes of Sydney Sweeney and Jenna Ortega were there to showcase their new movies.
    • ‘The Long Walk’ and some fresh ‘John Wick’ news was also shared.

    Lionsgate had, let’s be generous here, a pretty dreadful 2024, with movies such as ‘The Crow’ and ‘Borderlands’ seriously underperforming. The company has also been through more financial turmoil, but its presence at CinemaCon points to planting a flag and looking to convince theater chains that it’s in good shape with some exciting movies headed our way.

    Among them, the latest ‘John Wick’ spin-off, ‘Ballerina,’ and the first official look at the third ‘Now You See Me’ entry are expected to be the biggest.

    TmJtO5movvVx2ISzod9XB2

    It’s telling, though, that the Lionsgate presentation was part of an overall package with a state of the industry talk (featuring confirmation of name change from NATO to Cinema United with bonus Tom Cruise “we love movies” video, and a blend of self-congratulatory updates and concerns about the future of moviegoing as a whole) and fellow distributor Neon showing trailers for some of its own upcoming movies, including Mike Flanagan’s Tom Hiddleston-starring Stephen King adaptation ‘The Life of Chuck’ and Alison Brie/Dave Franco supernatural sci-fi horror ‘Together.’

    After more talk about windows than a glazing company conference, it’s on with the Lionsgate show!

    Related Article: ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ and More at Sony’s CinemaCon Presentation

    ‘Ballerina’

    (L to R) Director Len Wiseman and Ana de Armas at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Director Len Wiseman and Ana de Armas at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    To absolutely no-one’s surprise, the presentation kicked off with an extended look at the latest tendril of the ‘John Wick’-verse, ‘Ballerina.

    Starring Ana de Armas as a young woman trained in the traditions of the Ruska Roma organization who sets out to seek revenge after her father’s death, the movie has Len Wiseman in the director’s chair, but is also produced by ‘Wick’ franchise overseer Chad Stahelski.

    The new glimpse of the movie of course spotlights the considerable set-pieces. Because after all, what’s a ‘Wick’ movie without some good old fashioned fighting?

    We also get a look at Gabriel Byrne in the movie, and Anjelica Huston’s director hiring a certain familiar assassin to take out de Armas’ Eve. Yep, as you’ll have seen in the recent trailer, Keanu Reeves’ titular Mr. Wick makes his presence felt alongside franchise veterans Lance Reddick (RIP) and Ian McShane.

    1YxLpoTP

    In fact, this is mostly just an extended version of the last public look at the movie with added fisticuffs.

    Wiseman and de Armas took the stage to talk up the new movie. De Armas spotlighted how she appreciated the discipline of ballet, which carried over into the stunts, which were the most physically demanding work she had to for a movie.

    Lionsgate seems to be very confident in this one, claiming that they’ll be screening it to exhibition partners earlier than originally planned.

    ‘Ballerina’ hits theaters on June 6th.

    T6zQSeyAbhbLqgQYrfPFZ7

    ‘The Long Walk’

    (L to R) Director Francis Lawrence, David Jonsson and Mark Hamill at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Director Francis Lawrence, David Jonsson and Mark Hamill at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    The Stephen King adaptation, directed by ‘Hunger Games’ veteran Francis Lawrence, is a dystopian tale featuring a group of teenage boys competing in an annual contest known as “The Long Walk,” where they must maintain a certain walking speed or get shot.

    Lawrence was joined by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson and Mark Hamill (from some famous genre movies and TV) on stage to talk up the latest King joint.

    According to the director, this is his favorite King tome. Jonsson, meanwhile, mentions that the actors walked for miles each day while shooting. At least it was a good workout!

    Hamill, a CinemaCon newbie, plays the movie’s antagonist, so the cast apparently didn’t want to hang out with him until production was wrapped.

    He says he’s wanted to work with Lawrence for a while and “there is nothing for me in ‘Hunger Games.’” ‘The Long Walk,’ he says, hit him like a ton of bricks but he appreciated getting pushed out of his comfort zone.

    The trailer was shown, and we know that ‘The Long Walk’ will march into cinemas on September 12th.

    H0fKRBIhahsno7eUAQXuK2

    Lawrence remained on stage, because next up was…

    ‘The Hunger Games: Sunshine on the Reaping’

    Director Francis Lawrence in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
    Director Francis Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    The latest ‘Hunger Games’ outing, once more directed by Lawrence, is the next prequel story, focused on a young Haymitch (as played by Woody Harrelson in the original trilogy).

    Lawrence told the crowd that they’re casting now for a planned July shoot, and the director calls the color palette a “return to form” and that the new film takes place later in time than the last movie.

    And again, it was his favorite book –– this time by ‘Games’ author Suzanne Collins.

    ‘The Hunger Games: Sunshine on the Reaping’ will be out on November 20th, 2026.

    In between the bigger presentations was a video featuring other filmmakers talking up projects and more –– ‘A Simple Favor’s Paul Feig revealed he’d signed a first-look deal with the studios, while Luca Guadagnino appeared to hype his ‘American Psycho’ adaptation, which will go back to the book and features Scott Z. Burns writing. He’s casting it right now.

    7318

    ‘John Wick’

    Keanu Reeves as John Wick in 'John Wick: Chapter 4'. Photo Credit: Murray Close.
    Keanu Reeves as John Wick in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’. Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    The ‘Wick’-verse continues to expand

    While ‘Ballerina’ continues the story, a new animated prequel to the original ‘Wick’ flick sets the clock back to before the story. Shannon Tindle of ‘Ultraman: Rising’ will direct.

    But you were thinking Keanu Reeves’ character himself wouldn’t be back, think again –– Lionsgate has the actor and Stahelski developing a fifth main outing.

    Donnie Yen as Caine in 'John Wick: Chapter 4.'
    Donnie Yen as Caine in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

    And the spin-off, directed by and starring Donnie Yen, focused on his Caine character from ‘Chapter 4,’ will shoot this summer.

    On the comedy front, there’s more work for Keanu Reeves…

    ‘Good Fortune’

    Aziz Ansari’s film, which brought its first trailer, focused on a well-meaning but rather inept angel named Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), who meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capitalist (Seth Rogen).

    ‘Good Fortune’ will be hoping for good luck when it’s released on October 17th.

    btyHjgdcKjgicUy3t8Sxg7

    From there, we go to…

    ‘Power Ballad’

    John Carney –– him of ‘Sing Street’ and ‘Once’ has more music on his mind with this Paul Rudd/Nick Jonas starring comedy about a wedding singer, a rock star, and the song that comes between them.

    Lionsgate showed an extended look at that one, which seems sweet and funny.

    fY8vq6OSAyn4XNRgx8gIb

    And now…

    ‘Now You See Me 3’

    (L to R) Justice Smith as Charlie, Ariana Greenblatt as June, Dominic Sessa as Bosco, Jesse Eisenberg as Daniel Atlas, Isla Fisher as Henley Reeves, and Dave Franco as Jack Wilder in 'Now You See Me: Now You Don’t'. Photo Credit: Katalin Vermes.
    (L to R) Justice Smith as Charlie, Ariana Greenblatt as June, Dominic Sessa as Bosco, Jesse Eisenberg as Daniel Atlas, Isla Fisher as Henley Reeves, and Dave Franco as Jack Wilder in ‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t’. Photo Credit: Katalin Vermes.

    The third movie in the magician con-team franchise has Ruben Fleischer in the director’s chair, and he took the stage to announce that a fourth film (with Fleischer back behind the camera) and other spin-offs are in the works.

    This third outing blends the classic cast with new recruits such as Rosamund Pike and Ariana Greenblatt. And for the first time since the first movie, Isla Fisher returns as Henley.

    Oh, and it’s officially titled ‘Now You See Me, Now You Don’t.’

    Fleischer brought a first look trailer with him, but also took time to explain that the vast majority of the magic tricks are done in camera. The story this time sees Jesse Eisenberg’s falling out with his buddies, and recruiting a new team featuring Justice Smith, Greenblatt and Dominic Sessa. They work with Morgan Freeman to rob Pike’s villainous character.

    Once the trailer finished, Fleischer announced he’s also at work on another title for the studio, as well as a fourth ‘Now You See Me’ and possible spinoffs, but they’re keeping details on that in a bank vault for now.

    ‘Now You See Me, Now You Don’t’ will appear in theaters on November 14th.

    dFKlIcmxniLYHGSZpNnS15

    On to thriller territory…

    ‘The Housemaid’

    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    Paul Feig’s latest film, adapted from Freida McFadden’s novel, sees Sydney Sweeney playing a struggling woman who is happy to start over as a housemaid for an affluent, elite couple.

    Feig took the stage with Sweeney and co-stars Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar, and the presentation became a love-fest for the ladies, with Sweeney admitting she’s a huge fan of Seyfried and ‘Mamma Mia!‘, and they made a TikTok together dancing to Abba.

    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, and Sydney Sweeney at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Brandon Sklenar, Amanda Seyfried, and Sydney Sweeney at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    Sweeney also talked up loving the book and how she enjoys playing flawed characters.

    Feige and co wrapped up with a first trailer for the movie.

    ‘The Housemaid’ will look to clean up in theaters on December 25th. Happy thrillmas?

    GsEuTFbxsQ15dmyjh1tr77

    Finally?

    ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’

    (L to R) Director Trey Edward Shults and Jenna Ortega at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.
    (L to R) Director Trey Edward Shults and Jenna Ortega at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Lionsgate.

    ‘The Boondock Saints’ director Trey Edward Shults brings this new drama, which stars The Weeknd, Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan in the story of an insomniac musician encounters a mysterious stranger, leading to a journey that challenges everything he knows about himself.

    Shults said this is a hard movie to describe, soulful, and a journey.

    XvjQeQoy

    Ortega took the stage to enthuse about working on the movie. She got the script and fell in love with a scene. She went in trying to get a small role and ended up getting the lead alongside the music star. Her character shifted a lot even during the production, it is quite an experience.

    After the talent talks portion, the new trailer played. Trippy!

    The Weeknd performs at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.
    The Weeknd performs at the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.

    Following that, the wrap up the whole presentation, Ortega introduced The Weeknd, who performed for the crowd.

    ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ arrives in theaters on May 16th.

    XvI7HIl1svFYx0uDOqSGZ5

    Absent, despite being hyped before it kicked off shooting last year, was ‘Michael,’ the Michael Jackson biopic. That might have something to do with the ongoing legal issues with one of the singer’s accusers.

    Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in 'Michael.' Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur.
    Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael.’ Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur.

    Editorial Note: Moviefone Editor in Chief Jami Philbrick contributed to this reporting.

  • Sydney Sweeney Starring in ‘I Pretended To Be A Missing Girl’

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney has boarded new thriller ‘I Pretended to Be a Missing Girl.’
    • She’ll also produce the movie.
    • ‘Forrest Gump’ and ‘Dune’ writer Eric Roth will adapt the tale for Warner Bros.

    Sydney Sweeney is one busy actor. Not content with coasting on the success she’s had so far, she’s setting up projects all over the place, striking while the iron –– and her appeal –– is red hot.

    And, in keeping with other actors her age, she’s also looking to take more control of what she appears in, striking deals where she produces (via her company Fifty-Fifty Films) as well as leading the cast. It doesn’t hurt that she scores producer fees on top of her acting salary.

    The latest potential movie she is developing has a compelling hook and one other impressive talent aboard.

    Sweeney, via Deadline, is part of new thriller ‘I Pretended to Be a Missing Girl,’ which has its basis in a post on popular web forum site Reddit.

    nx4mE0u8xYeBO7bMBQKPa7

    What’s the story of ‘I Pretended to Be a Missing Girl’?

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    The new movie’s origin lies in the subreddit r/shortstories and is a compelling thriller written by Massachusetts-based high school English teacher Joe Cote four years ago.

    Cote’s eponymous tale hinges on a young woman who shows up at a family’s doorsteps ten years after their 18-year-old daughter went missing.

    Her plan is to convince the family she is their missing child, and stay just for one night — long enough to steal some valuables and get away. Yet she soon comes to realize she’s made a terrible mistake.

    You can read the story here on Reddit, though be warned –– unless the movie changes the story considerably, you’ll be spoiling yourself.

    From the sounds of it, it’s a juicy potential role for Sweeney, who could conceivably play both the missing daughter and the interloper.

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney Talks ‘Immaculate’ and Why She Loves Horror Movies

    Who else is attached to ‘I Pretended to Be a Missing Girl’?

    (L to R) Director Martin Scorsese, Lily Gladstone and Leonardo DiCaprio on the set of 'Killers of the Flower Moon'. Photo: Apple TV+.
    (L to R) Director Martin Scorsese, Lily Gladstone and Leonardo DiCaprio on the set of ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. Photo: Apple TV+.

    While there is no director aboard yet, we do know that Eric Roth, known for writing the likes of ‘Forrest Gump,’ ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and more recently, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon,’ will adapt the story for the screen.

    Alongside Sweeney, Underground Entertainment’s Trevor Engelson and Aaron Folbe (the latter discovered Cotes’ story and signed to represent him), Room 101’s Steven Schneider and Vertigo’s Roy Lee and Mira Yoon will produce the movie, while Cote snags an executive producer credit.

    What else is Sydney Sweeney working on?

    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in 'Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in ‘Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Sweeney’s current schedule is as packed as anyone’s in Hollywood.

    2024 included the continued success of hit rom-com ‘Anyone But You’ opposite fellow rising star Glen Powell and the aforementioned Neon horror thriller ‘Immaculate.’

    She followed those up with one that she might wish to vanish from her resume, misfiring Spider-Man spin-off ‘Madame Web.’

    e4s9wkVschfDXGRnsLayh1

    The actor also filmed the Ron Howard-directed thriller ‘Eden’ about a society of people who opt to start a new life in the Galapagos islands, only for things to wrong. That one should be in theaters this year.

    She has shot the Lionsgate adaptation of the novel ‘The Housemaid,’ which has Paul Feige in the director’s chair, and has worked on two other movies, ‘Echo Valley’ about a woman (played by Julianne Moore) whose life is turned upside down when her daughter (Sweeney) shows up covered in someone else’s blood, and a biopic of real-life boxer Christy Martin, with Sweeney in the lead role (not to mention it’s another movie she produced).

    Still to come is a starring role in Colman Domingo’s film ‘Scandalous!,’ which will see her playing Kim Novak in the story of the actor’s controversial relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. (played by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson).

    And that list doesn’t even include the potential movies to which she is attached: that list includes a remake of sci-fi comedy ‘Barbarella,’ thriller ‘The Caretaker’ and a drama called ‘The Registration.’

    Finally, we have HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ whose much-delayed third season which is finally filming now for a 2026 release.

    Here’s what she told Cosmopolitan about the show’s return:

    “We did have a long time between season one and season two, but especially now with the time jump, it’s a new process for me. I’m kind of just learning as I go and being open for whatever’s to come. But I’m also really excited. I love Cassie. She is always such a thrilling character to play, so I’m really looking forward to what’s gonna happen in her life.”

    When will ‘I Pretended to Be a Missing Girl’ be in theaters?

    With Warner Bros. aboard to produce and distribute the new movie, we’ll have to wait and see when it actually goes into production. Unless science has somehow cloned Sydney Sweeney, her busy schedule means it could be a while…

    Sydney Sweeney talks 'Immaculate.'
    Sydney Sweeney talks ‘Immaculate.’

    Sydney Sweeney Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies on Amazon

    iqtL7kRI

     

  • Sydney Sweeney Starring in ‘The Masque of the Red Death’

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney will star in ‘The Masque of the Red Death.’
    • It’ll loosely adapt the Edgar Allen Poe short story.
    • Charlie Polinger is in the director’s chair.

    Edgar Allen Poe is one of those writers whose work pops up time and again as source fodder for filmmakers and TV types.

    In 2023, we had Mike Flanagan putting his own spin on various Poe tales for Netflix limited series ‘The Fall of the House of Usher.’

    And if all comes together for A24’s new planned production, Poe’s short story ‘The Masque of the Red Death’ could be headed to cinemas.

    The production company is partnering with Picturestart to back the new effort, and they have rising star Sydney Sweeney –– who already proved her horror thriller chops with ‘Immaculate’ –– in negotiations to star.

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney Talks ‘Immaculate’ and Why She Loves Horror Movies

    What’s the story of ‘The Masque Of The Red Death’?

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Immaculate.' Photo: Neon.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Immaculate.’ Photo: Neon.

    The story follows Prince Prospero’s attempts to avoid a dangerous plague, known as the Red Death, which has brought gruesome symptoms sweeping over the land. Victims are overcome by sharp pains, sudden dizziness, and profuse bleeding at the pores, and die within half an hour.

    Prospero and some friends decide to wait the plague out in his abbey. He, along with many other wealthy nobles, hosts a masquerade ball in seven rooms of the abbey, each decorated with a different color. In the midst of their revelry, a mysterious figure disguised as a Red Death victim enters and makes his way through each of the rooms.

    And here we get into spoilers for those who haven’t read the story…

    Prospero dies after confronting this stranger, whose “costume” proves to contain nothing tangible inside it. The guests also die in turn.

    Yep, sounds like the basis for a knockabout comedy if ever we heard one!

    Yet according to Deadline’s story on Sweeney’s entering negotiations, the plan is for something wildly revisionist and darkly comic, so we could see something more along the lines of Flannigan’s ambitious and impressive Poe opus.

    It’s not yet known how the story will be tweaked for the new movie.

    Who is working on ‘The Masque Of The Red Death’?

    Sydney Sweeney talks 'Immaculate.'
    Sydney Sweeney talks ‘Immaculate.’

    Charlie Polinger is aboard to write and direct the new movie.

    The playwright-turned-filmmaker has another movie called ‘The Plague’ due in theaters at some point, though it doesn’t appear to share a theme with the Poe story despite its title.

    Featuring the likes of Joel Edgerton and Everett Blunck in its cast, it’s reportedly about a socially awkward tween who endures the ruthless hierarchy at a water polo camp, his anxiety spiraling into psychological turmoil over the summer.

    Polinger’s back catalogue includes short films such as ‘Sauna,’ ‘A Place to Stay,’ ‘Good People’ and the upcoming ‘Hiawatha.’

    He’s aiming to shoot ‘The Masque Of The Red Death’ this year.

    What else is Sydney Sweeney working on?

    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in 'Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (L to R) Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in ‘Anyone But You. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Sweeney has a busy schedule as is usual for an in-demand performer.

    2024 included the continued success of hit rom-com ‘Anyone But You’ opposite fellow rising star Glen Powell and the aforementioned Neon horror thriller ‘Immaculate.’

    She followed those up with one that she might wish to vanish from her resume, misfiring Spider-Man spin-off ‘Madame Web.’

    e4s9wkVschfDXGRnsLayh1

    The actor also shot the Ron Howard-directed thriller ‘Eden’ about a society of people who opt to start a new life in the Galapagos islands, only for things to wrong. That one should be in theaters this year.

    She is currently filming the Lionsgate adaptation of the novel ‘The Housemaid,’ which has Paul Feige in the director’s chair, and has worked on two other movies, ‘Echo Valley’ about a woman (played by Julianne Moore) whose life is turned upside down when her daughter (Sweeney) shows up covered in someone else’s blood, and a biopic of real-life boxer Christy Martin, with Sweeney in the lead role.

    Still to come is a starring role in Colman Domingo’s film ‘Scandalous,’ which will see her playing Kim Novak in the story of the actor’s controversial relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. (played by ‘Alien: Romulus’ David Jonsson).

    And that list doesn’t even include the potential movies to which she is attached: that list includes a remake of sci-fi comedy ‘Barbarella,’ thriller ‘The Caretaker’ and a drama called ‘The Registration.’

    Finally, we have HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ whose much-delayed third season should finally kick off filming this year for a 2026 release.

    Here’s what she told Cosmopolitan about the show’s return:

    “We did have a long time between season one and season two, but especially now with the time jump, it’s a new process for me. I’m kind of just learning as I go and being open for whatever’s to come. But I’m also really excited. I love Cassie. She is always such a thrilling character to play, so I’m really looking forward to what’s gonna happen in her life.”

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Sydney Sweeney Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies on Amazon

    iqtL7kRI

     

  • Sydney Sweeney Starring in Colman Domingo’s ‘Scandalous’

    (left) Oscar® nominee Colman Domingo arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Credit/Provider: Mike Baker / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S. (Center) Sydney Sweeney talks 'Immaculate.' (Left) David Jonsson at the San Diego Comic-Con 2024 'Alien: Romulus' panel. Photo: Disney.
    (left) Oscar® nominee Colman Domingo arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Credit/Provider: Mike Baker / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S. (Center) Sydney Sweeney talks ‘Immaculate.’ (Left) David Jonsson at the San Diego Comic-Con 2024 ‘Alien: Romulus’ panel. Photo: Disney.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney will play Kim Novak in ‘Scandalous.’
    • David Jonsson is on board to co-star as Sammy Davis Jr.
    • Colman Domingo is directing the drama.

    Colman Domingo’s career has been developing in leaps and bounds in the last few years, driven by work on the likes of ‘Euphoria’ and his Oscar-nominated film performances such as ‘Rustin.’

    The actor has also turned his hand to directing, shooting three episodes of ‘Fear the Walking Dead.’ And he’s spinning that experience behind the camera into feature work, with one movie in development (more on that below) and now, via Deadline, an exciting new project with ‘Euphoria’ co-star Sydney Sweeney.

    ‘Scandalous,’ which focuses on the love affair between Kim Novak and Sammy Davis Jr., began life with producer Jon Glickman (who is currently CEO of Miramax), has now become a movie that Sweeney is pushing forward alongside producers Tani Cohen and Bobby Roth.

    Domingo is looking to kick off directing in Los Angeles next year, and while Sweeney would play Novak, ‘Alien Romulus’ David Jonsson is aboard to play Davis Jr.

    Related Article: Colman Domingo to Join Steven Spielberg’s New, Untitled UFO Movie

    What’s the story of ‘Scandalous’?

    (L to R) Sammy Davis Jr. and Peter Lawford in 'Salt and Pepper'. Photo: United Artists.
    (L to R) Sammy Davis Jr. and Peter Lawford in ‘Salt and Pepper’. Photo: United Artists.

    Featuring a script by Matthew Fantaci, ‘Scandalous’ will chart what happened when movie Novak (known for the likes of ‘Vertigo’ and ‘Pal Joey’) met Rat Pack member Davis Jr. while guests on ‘The Steve Allen Show.’

    They fell in love, but as rumors spread, the rampant racism in America threatened to derail their careers. Novak saw the ire of Harry Cohn, the Columbia Pictures chief who had the actress under contract. Their covert affair became big news when a Chicago gossip columnist in early 1958 wrote a detailed account of their relationship, including their plans to marry.

    Their publicists and the stars themselves denied the news and nine days later, Davis Jr. married a Black chorus girl named Loray White.

    What else is Colman Domingo developing?

    Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo to portray Jackson Family Patriarch Joe Jackson in Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International's Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael.'
    Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo to portray Jackson Family Patriarch Joe Jackson in Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International’s Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael.’

    Domingo is overseeing the move of stage production ‘Lights Out: Nat King Cole,’ which he wrote with director Patricia McGregor, to New York. And talking of the legendary singer, Domingo also has a film about him in the works, with plans to star and direct.

    On the acting front, he’s working on Tina Fey’s TV version of ‘The Four Seasons’ for Netflix. Next up, he’ll be seen in the streamer’s new mystery thriller limited series ‘The Madness,’ (landing November 28th) and is appearing as Michael Jackson’s father Joe in ‘Michael’, the biopic of the pop icon, which is in theaters on April 18th next year.

    Lft8D7heZ1vUsG1f3vG1E1

    When will ‘Scandalous’ be on screens?

    Given that Domingo and Sweeney are waiting until they finish work on the next season of ‘Euphoria’ (which isn’t scheduled to shoot until January 2025 at the earliest), we’ll likely be in for wait for this one.

    Colman Domingo as Bayard Rustin in 'Rustin.' Photo: David Lee/Netflix.
    Colman Domingo as Bayard Rustin in ‘Rustin.’ Photo: David Lee/Netflix.

    Other Colman Domingo Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy Colman Domingo Movies on Amazon

    aV6ClUA7

  • Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried to Star in ‘The Housemaid’

    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.' Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO. (Right) Amanda Seyfried in 'The Crowded Room,' premiering June 9, 2023 on Apple TV+.
    (Left) Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO. (Right) Amanda Seyfried in ‘The Crowded Room,’ premiering June 9, 2023 on Apple TV+.

    Preview:

    • Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are boarding a new thriller called ‘The Housemaid.’
    • Paul Feig is set to direct the movie for Lionsgate.
    • Rebecca Sonnenshine is adapting the bestselling novel by Freida McFadden.

    These days, if a studio can entice Sydney Sweeney to star in their movie, they will put Sydney Sweeney in their movie. Lionsgate is no doubt happy, then, that the ‘Immaculate’ and ‘Anyone But You’ actor has sealed a deal to star in a new thriller called ‘The Housemaid’ alongside Amanda Seyfried.

    The film –– which will adapt Freida McFadden’s popular novel, rather than have anything to do with the Korean movie of the same name –– will see Paul Feig in the director’s chair.

    Related Article: Sydney Sweeney Talks ‘Immaculate’ and Why She Loves Horror Movies

    What’s the story of ‘The Housemaid’?

    Sydney Sweeney talks 'Immaculate.'
    Sydney Sweeney talks ‘Immaculate.’

    With Rebecca Sonnenshine (who has written movies such as ‘The Keeping Hours’ and ‘Within’) adapting McFadden’s book, ‘The Housemaid’ sees Sweeney playing Millie, a struggling young woman who is relieved to get a fresh start as a housemaid to Nina (Seyfried) and Andrew, an upscale, wealthy couple.

    But Millie soon learns that the family’s secrets are far more dangerous than her own.

    McFadden’s novel has sat on the New York Times Bestseller List for over a year, and on the Amazon Bestsellers’ list for 98 weeks and counting. It also has a record-breaking half a billion pages read on Kindle –– behind only the ‘Harry Potter’ series. It has sold more than 3.6 million copies and has been translated into 40 languages.

    ‘The Housemaid’: The Studio Comments

    'Jackpot!' director Paul Feig.
    ‘Jackpot!’ director Paul Feig.

    Here’s what Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson told Deadline about the news:

    “I’m thrilled to have The Housemaid join our upcoming slate. A great filmmaker and a great cast with a great script from a great book is a terrific place to start. My prior work experiences with Paul and Amanda have been nothing short of spectacular, and Sydney is as talented and compelling as can be.”

    And here’s the statement from Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman:

    “The Housemaid is a certified phenomenon with over a year on the New York Times Bestsellers’ list, millions of copies sold, and a place on numerous critics’ choice lists. Part of the fun of the book was imagining the cast while we read it, and Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are perfect for Millie and Nina –– they’re both mysterious, nuanced, and incredibly skilled at becoming characters who don’t reveal everything right away. We’re thrilled to team them with Paul Feig, who we worked with on ‘A Simple Favor’ and its upcoming sequel and has a proven track record of developing stories with dynamic female leads.”

    As mentioned, Feig directed ‘A Simple Favor’ and most recently worked on ‘Jackpot!’ for Amazon. He has ‘A Simple Favor 2’ (or whatever it ends up being titled) heading our way next year.

    LWFFu0g6Cv7YIuZYBPlFj5

    When will ‘The Housemaid’ be in theaters?

    Given the schedules of those involved, we doubt this one will shoot much before mid-2025, so it may end up arriving in 2026 –– but no date has been set yet.

    Paul Feig attends the World Premiere Of Netflix's 'The School For Good And Evil' at Regency Village Theatre on October 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Netflix.
    Paul Feig attends the World Premiere Of Netflix’s ‘The School For Good And Evil’ at Regency Village Theatre on October 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Netflix.

    Other Paul Feig Movies:

    Buy Paul Feig Movies on Amazon

    JdTsGPtr

  • ‘Euphoria’ to Finally Shoot Season 3 in January

    Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie, Barbie Ferreira, Maude Apatow, Zendaya in 'Euphoria' season 2.
    (L to R) Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie, Barbie Ferreira, Maude Apatow, Zendaya in ‘Euphoria’ season 2. Photo: Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Preview:

    • After long delays, ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 will shoot in January.
    • Creator Sam Levinson has written the season.
    • Actors such as Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney and Jacob Elordi will return.

    ‘Euphoria’ fans have had to be remarkably patient, as the show has seen some severe delays in getting back to shooting.

    Now, though, there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who have been watching the (mis)adventures of Rue (Zendaya) and the rest, as HBO has announced that creator Sam Levinson will kick off production on Season 3 in January next year.

    Here’s the statement from Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO programming and head of HBO drama series and films:

    “I am thrilled that we are ready to begin production on ‘Euphoria’ in January. We could not be happier with our creative partnership with Sam and this incredible cast. We look forward to bringing this new season of ‘Euphoria’ to life for the fans.”

    wD7NAtwsFZJIjqQxEkhxg7

    What’s the story of ‘Euphoria’?

    Zendaya in 'Euphoria.'
    Zendaya in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    For those who have somehow missed the cable channel sensation, ‘Euphoria’ follows a group of high school students as they navigate love and friendships in a world of drugs, sex, trauma and social media.

    The series is an adaptation of an Israeli show of the same name, and all episodes are written by Levinson, who also directs a lot of the show.

    Related Article: ‘Euphoria’ Creator Sam Levinson to Delay Production on Season 3

    What has happened to delay ‘Euphoria’s Season 3?

    Sydney Sweeney in 'Euphoria.'
    Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    In March, a report from The Wrap brought word the delay is happening because ‘Euphoria’ creator/show-runner Sam Levinson has decided –– probably smartly, given the age of his cast –– that the new season should take the characters beyond high school.

    While the second season didn’t end with graduation (instead a school play went badly wrong and a shootout left at least one character dead), the new season will follow the leads’ lives post-school.

    And that change means new script work and extra time for development. Hence the delay.

    Despite its star-making success, the show has not been without issues, including dealing with the pandemic while shooting its first season and strikes following its second. Indeed, Levinson had been writing the third season when the writers’ strike began last year. The actors’ strike also compounded the issue.

    Barbie Ferreira, who plays the character of Kat, has announced she won’t return for the new season, and Angus Cloud, whose character Fezco was arrested at the end of Season 2, tragically died last year.

    Levinson also co-wrote and produced ‘The Idol’ for HBO, which arrived last year to scathing reviews and has been cancelled after one season.

    Who will return for ‘Euphoria’ Season 3?

    Jacob Elordi on HBO's 'Euphoria.'
    Jacob Elordi on HBO’s ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    ‘Euphoria’s cast, the majority of whom have become stars since it began (and whose busy schedules also present a challenge to timing), includes Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, Hunter Schafer, Storm Reid, Alexa Demie and Eric Dane.

    When will ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 land on screens?

    HBO has yet to confirm when the new season will land on screens, but depending on how shooting goes, it could be arriving before the end of 2025.

    Colman Domingo in 'Euphoria.'
    Colman Domingo in ‘Euphoria.’ Photograph by Eddy Chen/HBO.

    Other Movies Starring the Cast of ‘Euphoria’:

    Buy Zendaya Movies On Amazon

    Buy Sydney Sweeney Movies On Amazon

    GbikBU92