Moviefone Editorial

Tag: the-creator

  • ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ Interview: Director Gareth Edwards

    CwM7bR7v

    Available on digital beginning August 5th, before arriving on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD on September 9th is the box office hit ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, which is the seventh movie in the series and begins a whole new chapter for the beloved franchise.

    Directed by Gareth Edwards (‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ and ‘The Creator’), the film stars Scarlett Johansson (‘Black Widow’), Jonathan Bailey (‘Wicked’), Rupert Friend (‘Asteroid City’), Manuel Garcia-Rulfo (‘The Lincoln Lawyer’), and two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali (‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book‘).

    Related Article: Director Gareth Edwards Talks ‘The Creator’ and Artificial Intelligence

    'Jurassic World Rebirth' director Gareth Edwards.
    ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ director Gareth Edwards.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with director Gareth Edwards from Thailand about the ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’s digital and home entertainment release. Edwards discussed his love for the original movie, taking the franchise in a new direction, the alternate opening, the deleted scenes and why they were cut, and designing the look of the dinosaurs and other creatures for the film.

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Edwards, and actors Luna Blaise, David Iacono and Audrina Miranda.

    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 'Jurassic World Rebirth', directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Moviefone: To begin with, were you a fan of the ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Jurassic World’ movies before making this film, and what does it mean to you personally to be leading this new chapter of the franchise?

    Gareth Edwards: I think on the fan front, so basically New Year’s Eve 2024, which is when I was offered the gig, my girlfriend was like, “What do you want to do?” I said, “I don’t really want to go out. Let’s just go down the road. We live near Universal Studios.” I was like, “Let’s just go on the ‘Jurassic World’ ride, and that’s how we’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve.” So, I took a picture of myself and I’m friends with Colin Trevorrow who did the ‘Jurassic World’ movies, and I sent it to them as sort of an embarrassing, like this is how rock and roll I am, that we’re going on a ‘Jurassic World’ theme park ride for our New Year’s Eve. But I didn’t expect in my wildest dreams that two months later, I was going to be in a room with Steven Spielberg pitching him my take on that screenplay. So, it’s been a surreal, crazy journey, to be honest with you.

    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 'Jurassic World Rebirth', directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    MF: I understand there will be an alternate opening as well as deleted scenes available with the digital release. Can you talk about what the alternate opening is, as well as the deleted scenes and why they didn’t make the final theatrical cut?

    GE: So, there’s an alternative opening. ‘Jurassic Park’ basically has a lot of strong themes within it, and one of them is man versus nature, obviously. So, I started the movie with basically the rainforest getting destroyed a little bit, by these giant machines were building this lab where the movie opens. It just took a little too long visually to get there in time. So, as we were just trying to tighten the movie, it was just one of the things that came out. But I always missed it not being in the film. So, it doesn’t have all finished VFX, but you really see all the temporary previs of that. Then there’s two deleted scenes, one that people might recognize who saw the trailer, which is a velociraptor scene that got removed. The reason for that was because if you imagined it in the actual film, it was like a double beat moment where you have this reveal of raptors in the beginning of the third act in the film at night, and then suddenly the Mutadons appear, and it just felt like a hat on a hat a little bit. So, we’re going to be putting that on the digital extras. Then also my favorite scene that got cut out that I was just sad about and wanted it to be in the movie, but it basically just stopped the momentum at one point. But it’s a scene, without getting into too much information, it’s basically when Scarlett sees a payphone and tries to make a call and it all goes a bit wrong from there.

    (L to R) Luna Blaise and the T-Rex in 'Jurassic World Rebirth', directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    (L to R) Luna Blaise and the T-Rex in ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, directed by Gareth Edwards. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about designing the look of the dinosaurs and the new mutated creatures?

    GE: Well, when I started the film, I walked into this empty office and they go, “Okay, your first meeting is in a few days with Mattel, the toy company.” I was like, “Okay, why?” They said, “Well, they want to see all the designs for the dinosaurs. They need a year to build the factories to make the toys.” I’m like, “We don’t have any designs.” So basically, I put out this bat signal to all my favorite concept artists that I’d worked with that could do creature designs. We did this massive Zoom session where I just said everything I could possibly think of. Dozens and dozens of the top people in the world just went away that night and within about two or three days we had about 300 designs and it was fast to nail the look of the dinosaurs. The only problem ones were the mutant dinosaurs because obviously the canvas is so large. There was one called the D-Rex, which was really, I felt like I could see it in my peripheral vision if there was a crime and you were trying to explain it to the police. I felt like I got a good look at that one. The one I didn’t quite see was the Mutadon, which is the smaller, more raptor-like mutant dinosaur. There are no toys of those for a reason because we took nine months to figure that one out. So sorry, kids, maybe at Christmas, if you pester your mom and Mattel, you might get one.

    iDV9ECfrlJVXq7MAkRW8k1

    What’s the story of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’?

    Five years after the events of ‘Jurassic World Dominion’, the planet’s ecology has proven largely inhospitable to dinosaurs. Those remaining exist in isolated equatorial environments with climates resembling the one in which they once thrived. The three most colossal creatures across land, sea and air within that tropical biosphere hold, in their DNA, the key to a drug that will bring miraculous life-saving benefits to humankind.

    Scarlett Johansson plays skilled covert operations expert Zora Bennett, contracted to lead a skilled team on a top-secret mission to secure the genetic material. When Zora’s operation intersects with a civilian family whose boating expedition was capsized by marauding aquatic dinos, they all find themselves stranded on a forbidden island that had once housed an undisclosed research facility for Jurassic Park. There, in a terrain populated by dinosaurs of vastly different species, they come face-to-face with a sinister, shocking discovery that has been hidden from the world for decades.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’?

    • Scarlett Johansson as Zora Bennett
    • Jonathan Bailey as Dr. Henry Loomis
    • Rupert Friend as Martin Krebs
    • Mahershala Ali as Duncan Kincaid
    • Ed Skrein as Atwater
    • Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Reuben Delgado
    • Luna Blaise as Teresa Delgado
    • David Iacono as Xavier Dobbs
    'Jurassic World Rebirth' will be available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ and DVD September 9, 2025.
    ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ will be available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ and DVD September 9, 2025.

    EXCLUSIVE BONUS FEATURES AVAILABLE WHEN YOU BUY AT PARTICIPATING DIGITAL RETAILERS:

    • ALTERNATE OPENING 
    • DELETED SCENES: 

    MUTADON ATTACK – Featuring Scarlett Johansson, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, David Iacono, Rupert Friend, Luna Blaise and Audrina Miranda.

    RAPTORS – Featuring Mahershala Ali, Jonathan Bailey, Rupert Friend, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, David Iacono, Luna Blaise and Audrina Miranda.

    • JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH: HATCHING A NEW ERA DOCUMENTARY

    THE WORLD EVOLVES – Journey into a reimagined Jurassic World with
    Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, Mahershala Ali and the rest of the cast
    and filmmakers.

    OFF THE DEEP END – Dive into the thrilling ocean sequence and learn about the challenges of shooting on open water, the one-of-a-kind gimbal used to toss around the Essex and Mariposa, and the VFX wizardry that brought the Mosasaurus and Spinosaurs to life.

    TREKKING THROUGH THAILAND – Follow the cast and crewʼs footsteps as they navigate the challenges of shooting in exotic jungles, beaches, and tall grass fields that become home to the Titanosaurs.

    REX IN THE RAPIDS – Brace for a TRex encounter thatʼs different than anything experienced before with a nail-biting river chase recreated from Michael Crichtonʼs original Jurassic Park novel.

    DONʼT LOOK DOWN – Soar into the Quetzalcoatlus sequence with Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and Bechir Sylvain as they train for and shoot their cliff rappelling scenes.

    MINI-MART MAYHEM – Go inside the heart-stopping third act of Jurassic World Rebirth and witness the process of crafting sets that allow the movieʼs mutant dinosaurs to step out of nightmare-inspired designs and stop on an exhilarating rampage. Featuring Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, Jonathan Bailey, Audrina Miranda, David Iacono, Luna Blaise, Rupert Friend and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo.

    • GAG REEL
    • MEET DOLORES – Meet the animatronic Aquilops with an extraordinarily lifelike personality.
    • MUNCHED: BECOMING DINO FOOD – Get a victim’s firsthand view inside the frightening jaws of deadly dinosaurs that munch, chomp, and chew their way into creating unforgettable death sequences.
    • A DAY AT SKYWALKER SOUND – Actress Audrina Miranda guides a personal tour of Skywalker Sound in California to meet the audio editors, foley artists, and mixers who design the movie’s wide array of sounds.
    • HUNTING FOR EASTER EGGS – Find out where to look for cleverly hidden Easter eggs that pay homage to everything from the first Jurassic Park film to other Steven Spielberg classics.
    • FEATURE COMMENTARY with Director Gareth Edwards, Production Designer James Clyne, and First Assistant Director Jack Ravenscroft.
    • FEATURE COMMENTARY with Director Gareth Edwards, Editor Jabez Olssen, and Visual Effects Supervisior David Vickery.
    'Jurassic World Rebirth' will be available exclusively on digital platforms to own or rent starting August 5th.
    ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ will be available exclusively on digital platforms to own or rent starting August 5th.

    Other Movies in the ‘Jurassic Park’ Franchise:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy ‘Jurassic Park’ Movies On Amazon

     

  • Scarlett Johansson in Talks for New ‘Jurassic World’ Movie

    Scarlett Johansson in Marvel Studios' 'Black Widow.'
    Scarlett Johansson in Marvel Studios’ ‘Black Widow.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • Scarlett Johansson is in talks for a new ‘Jurassic World’ movie.
    • Gareth Edwards is in the director’s chair.
    • Reports are circling that Jennifer Lawrence passed on the film.

    As Universal moves quickly to put a new ‘Jurassic World’ movie into production, it appears that another big piece is falling into place. No, the T-Rex’s agent hasn’t yet responded to urgent calls from executives for her to lower her new contract price (7,000 goats or she walks); instead, there is confirmation that Scarlett Johansson is now in serious talks for a main role in the film.

    Originally reported by Jeff Sneider earlier this month, the news is now confirmed by Puck, which also brings word that Jennifer Lawrence was also offered a role in the movie, but has passed on the idea of running away from giant reptilian creatures.

    iDV9ECfrlJVXq7MAkRW8k1

    What’s the story of the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie?

    2015's 'Jurassic World.'
    2015’s ‘Jurassic World.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Rumors have been swirling that the film’s working title is ‘Jurassic City’, with hints of something along the line of ‘Escape from New York’. Again, though, none of that is confirmed: Universal is mostly keeping the details of the new movie trapped behind fences and concrete barriers for now. What can we predict? Big-toothed beasts causing trouble for the humans that foolishly interact with them.

    A bigger question, though, is which humans… It’ll reportedly be set in the ‘Jurassic World’ era but won’t directly connect to the previous three ‘World’ movies. Which means no Chris Pratt and co.

    From the sounds of it, this new movie would take the franchise in a fresh new direction, so we’re also not predicting (for now) the return of ‘Jurassic Park’ trio Alan Grant (Sam Neill), Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and Jeff Goldblum’s chaotician Ian Malcolm.

    If Johansson does sign on, she’ll play a role that for now will be shrouded in mystery. Aside from the fact that at some point she’ll encounter dinosaurs. That, you can put money on.

    Related Article: Gareth Edwards is Universal’s Choice to Direct Next ‘Jurassic World’ Movie

    Who is making the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie?

    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    (L to R) Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    David Koepp, who is slightly knowledgeable in the ‘Jurassic’ arena, having written both the 1993 classic ‘Jurassic Park’ (directed by Steven Spielberg) and its 1997 sequel, ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ (also directed by Spielberg, to less critical praise, but still healthy box office), is crafting the new movie’s screenplay.

    Longtime producer Frank Marshall, who worked on all three of the ‘Jurassic World’ movies is on board this one also, and the studio seems bullish about the progress so far. And of course, Spielberg will weigh in since he helped birth the franchise.

    Director Gareth Edwards seems like a good choice for the project –– he certainly knows his way around big franchise entries (though ‘Rogue One’ ultimately proved to be something he’d probably rather forget, even as it crossed a billion at the box office) and has worked smoothly with effects teams. Plus, he’s a thoughtful, creative director adept at finding the humanity in big concepts.

    When will the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie be in theaters?

    Universal would still like this one to be on screens for July 2nd, 2025.

    2018's 'Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.'
    2018’s ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies in the ‘Jurassic Park’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Jurassic Park’ Movies On Amazon

    k6WpleMa

  • Gareth Edwards to Direct New ‘Jurassic World’ Movie

    (Left) 'The Creator' director Gareth Edwards. (Right) 2015's 'Jurassic World.' Photo: Universal Pictures.
    (Left) ‘The Creator’ director Gareth Edwards. (Right) 2015’s ‘Jurassic World.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Gareth Edwards is aboard the next ‘Jurassic World’ movie.
    • He’ll kick off filming in June.
    • The movie has a July 2025 release date on the books.

    As Jeff Goldblum’s Ian Malcolm once said in ‘Jurassic Park’, “must… go… faster!” It’s a maxim that Universal is taking to heart with the next evolution of its dino-franchise, even if it’s one that doesn’t actually include Ian Malcolm.

    Still, the studio hit a road block recently when, after entering talks with ‘Bullet Train’ director David Leitch (whose new movie based on 1980s series ‘The Fall Guy’ has been earning praise with those who at the company have seen the footage), it saw him step away, concerned that the fast pace of the ‘Jurassic’ development meant he wouldn’t have enough say in its creative direction.

    Fortunately for Universal, it has found an experienced, inventive filmmaker to actually take the job –– Gareth Edwards, whose credits include ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’, 2014’s ‘Godzilla’ and, most recently, ‘The Creator’.

    30885

    What’s the story of the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie?

    Chris Pratt in 2015's 'Jurassic World.'
    Chris Pratt in 2015’s ‘Jurassic World.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Universal is mostly keeping the details of the new movie trapped behind fences and concrete barriers for now. What can we predict? Big-toothed beasts causing trouble for the humans that foolishly interact with them.

    A bigger question, though, is which humans… It’ll reportedly be set in the ‘Jurassic World’ era, but won’t directly connect to the previous three movies, so an appearance from characters such as those films’ Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) or Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howards) appears unlikely for now –– though we won’t rule anything out at this point.

    From the sounds of it, this new movie would take the franchise in a fresh new direction, so we’re also not predicting (for now) the return of ‘Jurassic Park’ trio Alan Grant (Sam Neill), Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and Goldblum’s chaotician Malcolm.

    Related Article: David Koepp Developing a New ‘Jurassic World’ Movie for Universal

    Who is making the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie?

    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    David Koepp, who is slightly knowledgeable in the ‘Jurassic’ arena, having written both the 1993 classic ‘Jurassic Park’ (directed by Steven Spielberg) and its 1997 sequel, ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ (also directed by Spielberg, to less critical praise, but still healthy box office), is crafting the new movie’s screenplay.

    Koepp, of course, has worked a lot with Spielberg, but is also a much sought-after writer beyond those collaborations (he has two movies on the way via Steven Soderbergh) and is a filmmaker in his own right.

    Longtime producer Frank Marshall, who worked on all three of the ‘Jurassic World’ movies is on board this one also, and the studio seems bullish about the progress so far. And of course, Spielberg will weigh in since he helped birth the franchise.

    Edwards seems like a good choice for the project –– he certainly knows his way around big franchise entries (though ‘Rogue One’ ultimately proved to be something he’d probably rather forget, even as it crossed a billion at the box office) and has worked smoothly with effects teams. Plus, he’s a thoughtful, creative director adept at finding the humanity in big concepts.

    Yet he’ll be hitting the ground running (if not from Raptors) on this one, since production is scheduled to start in June.

    When will the new ‘Jurassic World’ movie be in theaters?

    The studio has planted a flag in July 2nd, 2025 release slot, which explains the rush.

    2018's 'Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.'
    2018’s ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies in the ‘Jurassic Park’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Jurassic Park’ Movies On Amazon

    k6WpleMa

  • Where To Watch Gareth Edward’s ’The Creator’

    Madeline Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Madeline Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Visionary director Gareth Edwards creates a futuristic world where humans have declared war against Artificial Intelligence, who has created a mysterious and powerful weapon that threatens the end of mankind.

    rk2Su1Vibo1aGSfcieLFn6

    Where Can I Watch ‘The Creator’?

    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘The Creator’ had its world premiere screening on September 18, 2023, at the TCL Chinese Theater in Los Angeles. It was released domestically on September 29 in various formats, such as IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 4DX, and ScreenX.

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Creator’ Movie Showtimes

    The movie has been in theaters for over 60 days since its release and may no longer be showing in theaters. Missed its theatrical run? Don’t worry. ‘The Creator’ has already made its way to PVOD. You can purchase the movie digitally in 4K for $19.99 on mainstream services such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Pay, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft.

    For those waiting on a home release, the movie will be available on December 12, 2023 on UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD, just in time for the holidays. The physician release will feature a variety of bonus features, including a 55-minute behind-the-sene featurette titled “True Love: Making The Creator,” where director Gareth Edwards, film crew, and actors talk about the filming experience and the film’s documentary-style approach.

    Buy ‘The Creator’ Movie On Amazon

    ‘The Creator’ has a total runtime of 2 hours and 13 minutes

    When Will ‘The Creator’ Be Available For Streaming?

    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    The movie was released by 20th Century Studios, which is owned by the Walt Disney Company. It was recently announced that the movie will debut Wednesday, December 20, on Hulu.

    Where to Watch: ‘The Creator’ Online

    Disappointing Box Office

    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘The Creator’ is an ambitious film with excellent world-building, interesting character designs, and the promise of an expansive original sci-fi film, the excitement around the movie continued to build. Edward’s vision for the film was inspired by his love of Vietnam war films, mixed with robotics and sci-fi. The budget for ‘The Creator’ cost around $80 million. Unfortunately, the buzz did not result in a stellar box office performance as one would expect. It opened at a little over $14 million, and has grossed $40.7 million domestically. For the global box office, the movie recently passed $100 million at the worldwide box office.

    Watch the official trailer for ‘The Creator’ below:

    buAny1qH

    What is the Plot of ‘The Creator’?

    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Oren Soffer. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    The official synopsis for ‘The Creator’ is below:

    “From writer/director Gareth Edwards (‘Rogue One,’ ‘Godzilla’) comes an epic sci-fi action thriller set amidst a future war between the human race and the forces of artificial intelligence. Joshua (John David Washington, ‘Tenet’), a hardened ex-special forces agent grieving the disappearance of his wife (Gemma Chan, ‘Eternals’), is recruited to hunt down and kill the Creator, the elusive architect of advanced AI who has developed a mysterious weapon with the power to end the war… and mankind itself. Joshua and his team of elite operatives journey across enemy lines into the dark heart of AI-occupied territory… only to discover the world-ending weapon he’s been instructed to destroy is an AI in the form of a young child (Madeleine Yuna Voyles).”

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘The Creator’?

    Allison Janney as Colonel Howell in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Allison Janney as Colonel Howell in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Oren Soffer. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
    'The Creator' opens in theaters on September 29th.
    ‘The Creator’ opens in theaters on September 29th.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Creator’:

    To watch our interview with director Gareth Edwards about ‘The Creator,’ please click on the video player below.

    zQgBgaMS

  • Gareth Edwards Addresses ‘Rogue One’ Shoot Again

    Felicity Jones in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.'
    Felicity Jones in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.’ Photo: Lucasfilm.

    With his latest science fiction movie, ‘The Creator’ out in cinemas, Gareth Edwards probably wishes people would stop bringing up his previous work, ‘Star Wars’ effort ‘Rogue One’.

    Not because of the movie itself (which, let’s not forget, earned more than a billion dollars at the box office), but because of all the talk of re-writes and re-shoots around getting it finished.

    Infamously, the biggest change happened after much of the movie had been shot and creative dissonance began to happen. Tony Gilroy was brought in to work on the script and ended up reportedly directing re-shoots to help get the movie to its final form.

    20065704

    Edwards on ‘Rogue One’s tricky finish

    Diego Luna and Felicity Jones in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.'
    (L to R) Diego Luna and Felicity Jones in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.’ Photo: Lucasfilm.

    Talking to Kim Masters for KCRW podcast ‘The Business’, Edwards had this to say:

    “The stuff that’s out there on the internet about what happened on that film — there is so much inaccuracy about the whole thing. Tony came in, and he did a lot of great work, for sure. No doubt about it. But we all worked together until the entire last minute of that movie.”

    And while there was talk that Gilroy completely oversaw the five-week re-shoot for the movie, Edwards disputes that, citing one of its most iconic moments:

    “The very last thing that we filmed in the pickup shoot was the Darth Vader corridor scene. I did all of that stuff.”

    Related Article: Director Gareth Edwards Talks ‘The Creator’ and Artificial Intelligence

    Edwards on the experience as a whole

    Darth Vader in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.'
    Darth Vader in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.’ Photo: Lucasfilm.

    Despite the ongoing chatter, the filmmaker doesn’t regret the experience, emphasizing to Variety how lucky he was to have worked on a movie set in the galaxy far, far away that once inspired him:

    “I got to make a ‘Star Wars’ film. I won the lottery, in that sense. The idea of someone as privileged as me in any way implying that it was anything other than the amazing experience that it was to some extent — like, I don’t have any empathy for that person, and I don’t want to be that person either.”

    Two things, however, are telling about Edwards’ time on ‘Star Wars’, both of them after the fact.

    'Andor' will premiere on Disney+ September 21st.
    ‘Andor’ will premiere on Disney+ September 21st.

    Gilroy was brought back in to work on last year’s ‘Andor’, a story set in the years before Diego Luna’s Cassian Andor met the ‘Rogue’ squadron. Gilroy was involved from the start and is currently (at least, he’ll be able to once the actors’ strike is over since nothing can be shot right now) overseeing it to competition. Praise for ‘Andor’ has been near universal.

    And as for Edwards, he took seven years between movies (though he denies any wounds to lick and instead says he just wanted to make sure he nailed the next film) and with ‘The Creator’ sought a process where he had complete control.

    The result launched in cinemas this past weekend and so far isn’t exactly setting the box office on fire the way ‘Rogue One’ did. An original science fiction film was always going to struggle, though so far ‘The Creator’ has earned a little over $14 million domestically (and $32 million worldwide). Still, with a thrifty $80 million production budget, it also doesn’t have to earn on the level of a ‘Star Wars’ to find profit.

    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    (L to R) Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Creator’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Creator’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Gareth Edwards Movies On Amazon

    buAny1qH

     

     

  • Movie Review: ‘The Creator’

    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    In theaters on Friday 29th September, ‘The Creator’ represents a return for director Gareth Edwards, who made his name with low-budget sci-fi marvel ‘Monsters’ and was then recruited to make the likes of ‘Godzilla’ and a ‘Star Wars’ entry.

    But with ‘The Creator’, he’s in his own world, albeit one that owes a big debt to genre and other classic movies.

    rk2Su1Vibo1aGSfcieLFn6

    What’s the story of ‘The Creator’?

    Madeline Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Madeline Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Amidst a future war between the human race and the forces of artificial intelligence, Joshua (John David Washington), a hardened ex-special forces agent grieving the disappearance of his wife (Gemma Chan), is recruited to hunt down and kill the Creator, the elusive architect of advanced AI who has developed a mysterious weapon with the power to end the war… and possibly mankind itself.

    Joshua and his team of elite operatives journey across enemy lines, into the dark heart of AI-occupied territory… Only to discover the world-ending weapon he’s been instructed to destroy is an AI in the form of a young child.

    Who else is in ‘The Creator’?

    Allison Janney as Colonel Howell in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Allison Janney as Colonel Howell in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Oren Soffer. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘The Creator’s cast also includes Ken Watanabe, Sturgill Simpson, Madeline Yuna Voyles, Amar Chadha-Patel, Ralph Ineson, Veronica Ngo, Marc Menchaca and Allison Janney.

    Related Article: Director Gareth Edwards Talks ‘The Creator’ and Artificial Intelligence

    Is ‘The Creator’ worth watching?

    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    (L to R) Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Gareth Edwards is more known these days for being the director behind such giant franchise movies as ‘Godzilla’ and ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ (more controversially on the latter, since there was plenty of talk about how the studio had Tony Gilroy come in and re-write/re-shoot chunks of the movie, and it’s telling that Gilroy would go on to create prequel Disney+ series ‘Andor, not Edwards).

    But before both of those behemoths, he was the talent responsible for the excellent, grounded (despite the presence of giant alien creatures) ‘Monsters’ in 2010, which mixed a very human story of mismatched love with superbly realized effects. ‘The Creator’ leans much more into that style of film, with its shaky-cam guerilla shooting utilizing some beautiful natural backgrounds across Asia and story of a human being making a connection.

    Yet while ‘Monsters’ was inspired by disaster films (and Richard Linklater for its central duo), ‘The Creator’ is feeding more from the output of filmmakers such as James Cameron and Francis Ford Coppola. This is a work of excellent world building, Edwards carefully assembling a reality where the West is engaged in a conflict against the artificial lifeforms it built to perform tasks which has since rebelled to secure its own freedom.

    A nuclear strike on Los Angeles a decade ago left America going on the offensive, but in a nice twist of the usual man-vs-machine narrative, Asia has embraced the AI, offering sanctuary for the various synthetics. It gives the story echoes of Vietnam, the U.S. involved in a war it may not win.

    A scene still from 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    A scene still from 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    To try and prevent that, the US government has built NOMAD, a giant orbital weapons platform that can target individuals and structures, launching devastating missile strikes. The technological terror makes for superb visuals, spectral lasers scouring the countryside and raining fire down upon mech-heads.

    ‘The Creator’ also looks great, the mostly natural settings (though a grubby industrial city glimpsed midway through the movie is just as remarkable) giving this a standout style.

    Edwards also has a good eye for casting, with Washington giving another solid performance and bonding well with newcomer Voyles, who believably mixes childlike innocence with the flawless effects work of the character. Supporting them are the likes of Janney (as a gritty Colonel who will stop at nothing to track them down) and Watanabe, reuniting with his ‘Godzilla’ director and doing typically excellent work as an AI with a link to Joshua’s past.

    This might be the most beautiful and technologically effective sci-fi thriller you’ll see this year.

    What doesn’t work about ‘The Creator’?

    A scene still from 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    A scene still from 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    There are some downsides to the movie, primarily that its world-building invention and affecting performances can’t quite overcome the storyline, which feels like the director (who wrote the script with Chris Weitz, his collaborator on early drafts of ‘Rogue One’) borrowing parts of other movies.

    It’s possible to see elements of primarily James Cameron’s movies, especially ‘The Terminator’ (a U.S. Army vehicle deployed late in the movie reminded me of the tank-like Hunter Killers) and ‘Aliens’ (in the dynamic of the grunts Janney leads into combat), blended with something more along the lines of Alfonso Cuaron’s work.

    Which is not completely a bad thing –– if you’re going to borrow, why not pick the best? Yet when you’re ticking off elements you’ve seen in movies such as ‘The Matrix’ and ‘Blade Runner’ and not completely concentrating on the tale that Edwards is looking to tell here, you know you’re in some trouble.

    Likewise, the story itself, of Joshua’s connection to the young AI, is something we’ve seen several times before even with the various metaphysical and ethical trappings aiming to freshen things.

    Gemma Chan as Maya in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    Gemma Chan as Maya in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Add to that the fact that despite an early scene of them swapping banter, the bond between Washington and Chan’s characters is nowhere near as effective, with the various flashbacks to stages of their relationship coming across as the filmmaker trying to convince you to feel something and falling short.

    The problems, though, don’t sink this one. It’s good to see Edwards back to his own sphere after a few years of running around in other people’s genre playgrounds. ‘The Creator’ is proof that he hasn’t lost his touch for sweeping sci-fi with relatable emotions at its core, and it’s certainly one I would recommend seeking out in IMAX formats to make the most of the love poured into the look of the movie.

    This may not be the most original movie you’ll see this year, but it’s certainly one of the more impressive. Welcome back, Gareth Edwards: we’ve missed your viewpoints and your heartfelt humanity.

    ‘The Creator’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.

    'The Creator' opens in theaters on September 29th.
    ‘The Creator’ opens in theaters on September 29th.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Creator’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Creator’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy John David Washington Movies On Amazon

    ‘The Creator’ is produced by New Regency Pictures, 20th Century Studios, McFarland Entertainment, and Entertainment One, and will be in theaters on September 29th.

    buAny1qH

  • ‘The Creator’ Interview: Director Gareth Edwards

    zQgBgaMS

    Opening in theaters on September 29th is the new sci-fi action thriller ‘The Creator,’ which was directed by Gareth Edwards (‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,’ ‘Godzilla’).

    What is the plot of ‘The Creator’?

    Amidst a future war between the human race and the forces of artificial intelligence, Joshua (John David Washington), a hardened ex-special forces agent grieving the disappearance of his wife (Gemma Chan), is recruited to hunt down and kill the Creator, the elusive architect of advanced AI who has developed a mysterious weapon with the power to end the war… and mankind itself. Joshua and his team of elite operatives journey across enemy lines, into the dark heart of AI-occupied territory only to discover the world-ending weapon he’s been instructed to destroy is an AI in the form of a young child (Madeleine Yuna Voyles).

    rk2Su1Vibo1aGSfcieLFn6

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Creator’?

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with director Gareth Edwards about his work on ‘The Creator,’ what fans can expect from the new movie, the themes of AI that he wanted to explore, the friendship Joshua and Alfie form, and working with actors John David Washington and Madeleine Yuna Voyles.

    'The Creator' director Gareth Edwards.
    ‘The Creator’ director Gareth Edwards.

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

    Moviefone: To begin with, what would you say to audiences sitting down to watch this film to prepare them for the theatrical experience they are about to have?

    Gareth Edwards: If They’ve already decided to go and they bought their ticket, I would say nothing at all. If they haven’t, I would say, it’s very hard to talk about a film without doing any spoilers whatsoever. I’d just say, “It’s not what you think It’s going to be.” The title of this movie, when we were making it, was called ‘True Love.’ It’s a very emotional journey, I hope. That is the thing. The thing I’m most hearing about now as we’re starting to show the film to people, is how they are surprised about how they were affected, emotionally, watching the film. I mean, I love robots and explosions and spaceships, and that’s why I started making the film, but it’s all for nothing if it doesn’t give you the feels.

    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    A still on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Related Article: ‘The Creator’ Trailer

    MF: Can you talk about developing the story and the themes of Artificial intelligence that you wanted to explore with this movie?

    GE: I think when you sit down and go, “I want to make a movie about prejudice,” or whatever the theme is, if you do that, you’re going to make a terrible film. You lock onto something that super interests you. For me, it was the idea of, essentially, if you’ve seen the materials, there’s a little AI child at the heart of this movie. John David Washington’s character is essentially sent to kill it. He can win the war and save humanity if he just kills this kid. In the process of taking the kid to be assassinated, he starts to question everything he believes and gets very torn, and everyone is pursuing them and all those things. When you land on something that interests you like that, as you’re writing it, it starts to tell you what the theme is. You get themes about prejudice and about xenophobia or whatever, and then you try to help that, like a child who grows up and tells you what it wants to be when it’s older. It’s like a story does that too. You try to encourage it. But I hate films that preach to you and I love films with gray morally. I am going to be fascinated what people think when they come out and how it makes them feel about AI and everything, because I try to take people on quite a journey and I’m not sure everyone fully appreciates. I think they think they know what the movie’s going to do and I hope it doesn’t do that.

    John David Washington as Joshua and Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    (L to R) John David Washington as Joshua and Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about the very “human relationship” that Joshua and Alfie form together and creating that chemistry with John David Washington and Madeleine Yuna Voyles?

    GE: Yeah, it was super important that the two of them had that chemistry. It was fundamental to the entire movie. Madeleine, she is beyond her years. She’s like a reincarnated brilliant actress from some other era, I think, because a six-year-old girl should not be able to do that kind of performance she did. Basically, she’s very introverted. You know what I mean? She’s very shy, and so it was hard to get into her bubble and become a friend of hers. She keeps everyone at a distance in a good way. Also, we were in the middle of nowhere in the jungles of Thailand shooting this movie. I couldn’t blame her. But then John David worked really hard to become her best friend and he cracked it. It was really hilarious to watch, because when you do a take and an actor needs to stay in the zone, they’re doing something emotional or something, and what happens, you say, “Cut,” and they go off into the corner and they won’t talk to anyone. They need their little space. He would go off into the corner. Madeleine would just get up, follow him, hold his hand, and start talking about some toy she really liked at home and that she played with, or tell him some random story, the way kids do, that’s completely just something only a kid can say. You’d be hearing this cracking up. John David was such a nice guy. He’d lean down and talk to her, and play, and get all enthusiastic with her. He became her big brother and best friend. They had had a long period of not seeing each other. It was her birthday the other week. We went to Disneyland with her and with John David. Her eyes, just the whole day, it was like she’d been reunited with her best mate. It was beautiful.

    Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    (L to R) Madeleine Yuna Voyles as Alphie, Gemma Chan as Maya, and Director Gareth Edwards on the set of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo by Glen Milner. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Creator’:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Creator’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy John David Washington Movies On Amazon

    ‘The Creator’ is produced by New Regency Pictures, 20th Century Studios, McFarland Entertainment, and Entertainment One, and will be in theaters on September 29th.

     

  • Beyond Fest Announces Full 2023 Line Up

    Beyond Fest 2023 takes place September 26th - October 10th.
    Beyond Fest 2023 takes place September 26th – October 10th.

    Now entering its 11th year, the highest-attended genre film festival in the US, Beyond Fest is back and bigger than ever.

    The event, which has brought first looks at new movies and more to fans for years, is back this month, comprising 55 features, including 5 world premieres, 3 North American Premieres, 7 US premieres, and 18 West Coast Premieres.

    When and where is Beyond Fest 2023 happening?

    Nicolas Cage in 'Dream Scenario.'
    (Left) Nicolas Cage in ‘Dream Scenario.’ Courtesy of A24.

    This year’s event runs between September 26th – October 10th.

    In partnership with the American Cinematheque and presented exclusively by distributor NEON, Beyond Fest will screen at the Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3 and Regency Village Theatre.

    Here’s what Head of Programming Evrim Ersoy has to say about this year’s fest:

    “With over 19,000 attendees in 2022, our goal this year was to go bigger while also exposing audiences to new filmmakers who represent the future. We’ve delivered on that promise with a program that has the world’s most celebrated artists like James Cameron, Guillermo del Toro, and Roger Corman joining us alongside some of Cinema’s boldest new voices including Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, Demián Rugna and Macon Blair.”

    Related Article: Beyond Fest’s Full 2022 Line Up Includes ‘Halloween Ends’ and More

    What could I see at the 2023 Beyond Fest?

    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios' 'The Creator.'
    John David Washington as Joshua in 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Among the offerings at this year’s event are Gareth Edwards’ sci-fi epic ‘The Creator’, which is the opening night movie at the Aero, while Kristoffer Borgli’s comedy-satire sensation, ‘Dream Scenario’, featuring Nicolas Cage, will close things out.

    rk2Su1Vibo1aGSfcieLFn6

    Paul Mescal stars in two new movies: first, opposite Andrew Scott and alongside Jamie Bell and Claire Foy, in Andrew Haigh’s metaphysical romantic drama ‘All of Us Strangers’, and then he’s opposite Saoirse Ronan in Garth Davis’ psychological drama ‘FOE’.

    rH6Erw2NqkzJswanc6vOj

    We can also expect to see Justine Triet’s Palme d’Or winner ‘Anatomy of a Fall’ and Kitty Green’s slow-burn outback thriller ‘The Royal Hotel’.

    Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio in James Cameron's 'The Abyss.'
    Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio in James Cameron’s ‘The Abyss.’ Courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures.

    And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Talking of icebergs, James Cameron will also be in attendance: not bringing ‘Titanic’, but instead to introduce and then discuss the Special Edition of 1989’s ‘The Abyss’. You’d think the man would be too busy working on his ‘Avatar’ sequels, but Beyond Fest has him!

    2542

    There will also be a celebration of genre legend Roger Corman, including a special tribute screening with brand new 35mm prints of ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll High School’, ‘Piranha’, ‘Grand Theft Auto’ and ‘The Raven’ followed by a panel featuring Corman and longtime collaborators Ron Howard, Jon Davison, Amy Holden Jones, Joe Dante and Allan Arkush.

    1014267

    Guillermo del Toro will be there to mark 10 years of his robots-vs-giant-monsters pic ‘Pacific Rim’, and maintaining the theme, director Brad Bird will bring his much-loved animation classic ‘The Iron Giant’.

    6408

    Elsewhere, there will be a chance to see the remake of Troma classic ‘The Toxic Avenger’ starring Peter Dinklage as the mutated, mop-wielding hero, and so much more.

    Peter Dinklage in 'The Toxic Avenger.'
    Peter Dinklage in ‘The Toxic Avenger.’ Credit: Legendary Pictures.
    ONHy8weYYsZexyU7f3Yu66

    How can I get tickets for the 2023 Beyond Fest?

    A scene from 'All of Us Strangers.'
    A scene from ‘All of Us Strangers.’ Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures.

    Tickets will be on sale via americancinematheque.com on Friday, September 15th at 10AM PST.

    Visit beyondfest.com and americancinematheque.com for details.

    Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam and Rinko Kikuchi in Guillermo del Toro's 'Pacific Rim.'
    (L to R) Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam and Rinko Kikuchi in Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Pacific Rim.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    Other Movies Playing at Beyond Fest 2023:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Creator’ Movie Showtimes

    buAny1qH

    Buy ‘Pacific Rim’ On Amazon

  • CinemaCon 2023: Disney and 20th Century Studios Presentation

    Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting in Venice.'
    Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting in Venice.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Even as it continues its habit of shifting some movies (such as the upcoming ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’) to Disney+ as a lure for subscribers, Disney is still seeing big box office for its major releases (if a little lower for, say, recent Marvel and Pixar movies).

    So, the company –– which of course boasts those two big franchises plus Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, Searchlight under its giant banner –– is expectedly touting the huge success of ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ and pointing to all the films it has headed our way this year.

    Tony Chambers, the company’s head of theatrical distribution led the presentation, highlighting the fact that this year marks the first time since 2019 that they are releasing movies from all seven labels.

    The show kicked off with a new clip from a certain incoming Marvel release…

    ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’

    Marvel Studio's 'Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3.'
    Marvel Studio’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel.com.

    Given that director James Gunn has been off on a world tour promoting the new ‘Guardians’ movie (and, er, the fact that he’s now one of the CEOs of DC Studios), he wasn’t on stage for the presentation.

    And the mention of ‘Guardians’ was understandably small given that the movie will be in theaters next week (May 5th, to be exact), with just a new clip shown to the audience at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. The footage features Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) and the different version of Gamora (Zoe Saldana) we met in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ on a planet in space suits. “I know you don’t remember any of it. You were everything to me, I miss you so much.,” he tells her, pouring out his heart. The funny kicks in with the rest of the gang –– Drax (Dave Bautista), Nebula (Karen Gillan) and Mantis (Pom Klementieff) –– revealed to be listening to Peter’s expression of love.

    k5kA3qeDcQFylAb4AgIbb6

    ‘The Marvels’

    Brie Larson as Captain Marvel/Carol Danvers in Marvel Studios' 'The Marvels.'
    Brie Larson as Captain Marvel/Carol Danvers in Marvel Studios’ ‘The Marvels.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 Marvel.

    The focus on Marvel continued with the recently released trailer for ‘The Marvels’, though that of course had already been seen. Expect more from that one and other MCU titles when Comic-Con rolls around this summer.

    Following that, it was on to Disney’s main animated arm…

    clU8QkqfIHVJwWPVCjfPl3

    ‘Wish’

    Chris Pine as Magnifico in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 'Wish.' 'Wish' opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023.
    Chris Pine as Magnifico in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ ‘Wish.’ ‘Wish’ opens only in theaters on Nov. 22, 2023. © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

    Disney Feature Animation has the original fantasy film ‘Wish‘ headed our way later this year. Though the movie was originally announced at last year’s D23, Disney has been drip-feeding information ever since, and CinemaCon is no exception.

    The movie, which is also a musical comedy, introduces Asha (Ariana DeBose), a sharp-witted idealist who makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, Asha and Star set out to prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen. All with the help of Asha’s goat pal Valentino (voiced by current animation lucky charm Alan Tudyk).

    A clip was shown, featuring DeBose’s character singing one of her featured tunes, ‘So I Made This Wish’ –– aka the ‘I Want’ song so traditional to Disney princesses with some beautiful sky and scenery around that elicited applause from the crowd.

    kHmg8bMt

    And Chambers also announced that Chris Pine is part of the voice cast, playing King Magnifico, the ruler of Rosas, a magical kingdom where wishes really do come true.

    Said Jennifer Lee, DWA boss and co-writer of the movie about Pine in a press release from the studio,

    “As the most powerful person in the kingdom, King Magnifico needed to be played by someone who could give all the charm, cleverness and charisma to this magnanimous character, and Chris is beautifully bringing all of that and then some.”

    ‘Wish’, directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, will be in theaters on November 22nd, filling the traditional Disney Thanksgiving slot.

    rjoC2SsUUplDR32NluOcZ7

    Related Article: CinemaCon 2023: Warner Bros. Presentation

    Next up, it was time to find out if it’s better under the sea…

    ‘The Little Mermaid’

    Halle Bailey as Ariel in Disney's live-action 'The Little Mermaid.'
    Halle Bailey as Ariel in Disney’s live-action ‘The Little Mermaid.’ Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2023 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Melissa McCarthy arrived on stage to talk up Rob Marshall’s live action/CG re-imagining of the fairy tale so famously brought to animated life by Disney in 1989. While Halle Bailey plays the titular Ariel, McCarthy is scheming sea witch Ursula.

    Here’s what McCarthy had to say about her character.

    “Did someone say my name… I had something in my throat. It was an honor to play one of Disney’s most delicious and iconic villains. You can’t help but love her. Ursula is everything — she’s dishy, she’s a conniving broad, maybe that’s why I relate to her.”

    McCarthy cued up a new clip from the movie, which fittingly featured her character in the sequence where Ursula grants Ariel’s wish to become a human, and Ursula’s song ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’.

    ‘The Little Mermaid‘ swims into theaters on May 26th.

    2UPucaisvBvg2Y72lPddd5

    After that, it was time for ghostly goings on…

    ‘Haunted Mansion’

    Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, and Chase Dillon star in director Justin Simien's 'Haunted Mansion.'
    (L to R) Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, and Chase Dillon star in director Justin Simien’s ‘Haunted Mansion.’

    The new take on ‘Haunted Mansion’ is directed by Justin Simien and stars the likes of Tiffany Haddish, Rosario Dawson, Owen Wilson, Jared Leto, LaKeith Stanfield and Jamie Lee Curtis in the story of Dawson’s single mother, who moves into the spooky mansion and needs help to exorcise its spirits.

    A new trailer and clip were shown from the movie, featuring plenty of ghostly action and making it look very faithful to the original theme park ride.

    ‘Haunted Mansion’ creeps into theaters on July 28th.

    7W65fd8ZMfdS9oTPSJ1eK1

    ‘Elemental’

    Disney and Pixar’s 'Elemental' directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Denise Ream, releases on June 16, 2023.
    Disney and Pixar’s ‘Elemental’ directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Denise Ream, releases on June 16, 2023. © 2023 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

    Despite the less-than-stellar results from ‘Lightyear’, Disney continues to see Pixar as a pillar of its schedule, and demonstrated that belief with 20 minutes of impressive, 3D footage from the upcoming ‘Elemental’.

    The movie, directed by Pete Sohn, features the voices of Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Catherine O’Hara.

    As for the story, it transports us to Element City, where a host of elements live and work. The trailer showcases each element — air, earth, water and fire — and what sets them apart according to Ember Lumen (Lewis), a quick-witted and fiery woman who’s always stayed close to home in Firetown. She finally ventures out of her comfort zone to explore and meets go-with-the-flow water guy Wade Ripple (Athie). Elements are not supposed to mix, but Ember and Wade forge a connection – one that could cause problems for them and their families.

    ‘Elemental’ will close out this year’s Cannes Film Festival before arriving in theaters on June 16th.

    Ohqm8sLpQU559qc2ATHM04

    ‘Next Goal Wins’

    20th Century Studios’ ‘Next Goal Wins’, the long-awaited soccer comedy from Taika Waititi was next up.

    The movie follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001. With the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, the team hires down-on-his-luck, maverick coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) hoping he will turn the world’s worst soccer team around. The underdog comedy heads to theaters November 17th, and you can watch the trailer below.

    xocX7GJy NBSNKcpRwKTE5Io7U21Kd

    And then, it was back to scarier offerings…

    ‘A Haunting in Venice’

    Michelle Yeoh as Joyce Reynolds in 20th Century Studios' 'A Haunting in Venice.'
    Michelle Yeoh as Joyce Reynolds in 20th Century Studios’ ‘A Haunting in Venice.’ Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    Kenneth Branagh’s latest Agatha Christie adaptation sees his Hercule Poirot headed to the floating city, where there are terrifying goings-on.

    A first trailer was shown for the movie, which unlike most of the other footage shown today, has gone online.

    5LDGhHdt

    This time, a disconsolate Poirot finds himself at a Halloween party in one of the city’s creepier palazzos during a thunderstorm and, as it turns out, a seance. This palazzo is an orphanage, you see, and like all orphanages in ghost stories it’s got a deep, dark secret. A mother searching for a lost child thinks she can make contact through a medium, and over the course of an evening secrets start to unravel.

    As was the case with Branagh-Poirot’s last two cases, the cast is stacked: Michelle Yeoh –– or, to give her her full title, Best Actress Oscar-winner and all-round goddess Michelle Yeoh –– will be that medium, Joyce Reynolds, and the cast also includes Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Camille Cottin and Jude Hill, who played the nine-year-old lead in Branagh’s ‘Belfast’.

    ‘A Haunting in Venice’ is in theaters from September 15th.

    ifsKK6d6BCmHJcRnFyxvq1

    ‘The Creator’

    Next was the first look footage and trailer for 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator’, the new sci-fi thriller from ‘Godzilla’ director Gareth Edwards.

    Retitled from ‘True Love’, the movie finds humans facing off against robots.

    In the trailer shown to audiences, John David Washington is reflecting on heaven with his wife and daughter. The daughter is an android, with a half-head. Gorgeous battle scenes akin to Edwards’ ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story‘ see spaceship fighters attacking tropical locales. It looks astonishing and will hopefully arrive online before too long.

    ‘The Creator’ will land in theaters on September 29th.

    tsOPj54h10v3MvGeL2lrJ

    And finally, the man with the hat…

    ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’

    Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) and Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm's 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.'
    (L to R) Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) and Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.’ ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Chambers closed out the presentation by introducing a video greeting from Indy himself –– AKA Harrison Ford, who praised the latest movie and cued up an action-packed clip.

    The sneak peek showed Indiana Jones and his goddaughter Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) bickering with each other as they dodge gunfire and slow-moving camels in a bazaar in Tangier. As an army of mooks chases them, they chase after the Nazi Jurgen Voller (Mads Mikkelsen), who has the Dial in his possession. But Helena and Indy don’t seem to be on the same page when it comes to the dial. Helena is engaged to an unscrupulous man who wants the dial to make a fortune, and she has her own reasons for wanting to make the sale. Indy wants the dial because, presumably, it belongs in a museum.

    And while Helena has the most death-defying moment in the scene as she jumps onto Jurgen’s car, Indy isn’t taking it easy as he drives a small cart through narrow streets and reaches out to grab the dial without getting shot by Jurgen’s right-hand man, Klaber, played by Boyd Holbrook.

    The clip got a rousing reaction from theater owners, and ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny‘ is headed to Cannes before landing in theaters on June 30th.

    PJpnUFWr6IUm179ciHgZl5

    And that was it for the main presentation, though the company had one final treat up its sleeve –– a screening of new Stephen King adaptation ‘The Boogeyman’. That one will be scaring audiences in theaters from June 2nd.

    Mhvblu1caBKgvp8z7udUJ2
    Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm's 'IJ5.'
    Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm’s ‘IJ5.’ ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Movies Presented at Disney and 20th Century Studios 2023 CinemaCon Presentation:

    Buy Disney Movies On Amazon