News

WithThe Mandalorian And Grogustill over a year away, a look at some of the Star Wars filmsLucasfilmhasn’t made since 2019.

The release of 2015’s The Force Awakens sparked the beginning of a frenzied five years for the Star Wars franchise. It was a period that saw a new film in the series released annually, with numbered sequels interspersed with the spin-offsRogue One(2016) andSolo(2018). Then 2019 happened, and things went rather quiet.

One problem, for Disney-owned production company Lucasfilm, was that 2019’s The Rise Of Skywalker barely made a billion dollars in cinemas – only half of what The Force Awakens had made four years earlier. The other problem was thatSolo: A Star Wars Story,which cost somewhere around $270m to make, only made $400m.

Those declining numbers appeared to give Lucasfilm pause, because it’s spent the years since announcing or hyping future Star Wars movies,...

Almost a year and a half after season three ofStar Trek: Picardaired its finale, "The Last Generation," there are some actors such asJeri Ryan,Michelle Hurd,andTodd Stashwick,and plenty of fans who are not ready to give up on the idea of continuing adventures with the legacy characters and the newer characters that made their debuts on Picard.LeVar Burtonis one of those actors.

In an interview with TVLine [viaWhatculture] the man behind Commodore Geordi Laforge is still onbard for the series that would followCaptainSeven ofNine[Jeri Ryan], her first officer Raffi Musiker [Michelle Hurd], andAdmiralJean-Luc Picard's [Patrick Stewart] son, Jack Crusher [Ed Speleers].

The sentiment, then and now, at least for us, the cast, and the audience, two years on, seem to be just as interested in the idea ofLegacyas when Picard was just airing.LeVarBurton

By now, most...

Halloween is the time of year when horror appeals to all ages and backgrounds, but especially so for the young and young at heart. Luckily, there’s no shortage of family-friendly frights on streaming or network TV. If you’ve already grown tired of the familiar staples that include enduring favorites likeHocus Pocus,Halloweentown,Casper,Coraline,Don’t Look Under the Bed,Beetlejuice,and more, here’s the list for you.

This streaming guide is almost entirely dedicated to gateway horror titles released within the last decade, save for one deep-cut gem that’s finally found its way on streaming. Many of them are set on or around Halloween, ensuring proper spooky season viewing.

For those looking for brand new family frights to sink their fangs into this Halloween season, don’t miss these movies and shows.

A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting–Netflix

Set around Halloween,A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting...

Star Trek: Lower Decksis coming to an end in December after five seasons. But will that be the last time the actors who brought the animated characters to life are part of theStar Trekfranchise? Not ifTawny Newsome,who, along withJustin Simien,created the new live-action comedy, has anything to say about it. She wants to work with her co-stars again, especially since she's only ever gotten to work with one in live-action, and that wasJack Quaid.She andQuaidplayed their live-action characers on an episode ofStar Trek: Strange New Worlds.

In a recent interview withCbr,Newsome was excited about the idea of working with her friends, but this new show won't be a spin-off from Lower Decks. These will be entirely new characters in an entirely new show. So you might see Jack Quaid playing a captain or a lieutenant on a vastly different ship.

Exclusive Updated: Private equity firmTpghas revealed the name of the talent management-centric company it launched in June in conjunction with acquiring a majority stake inUntitled Entertainment.Named Initial Group, the subsidiary has made a second investment, completing the long-rumored acquisition of literary management firmGrandview.It will be combined under the banner of the larger, actor-focusedUntitled,significantly bolstering its lit representation capabilities.

Jeff SilverandMatt Rosen,who co-founded Grandview, have been named Managing Partners of the combined company, joining Untitled’s founding partnersJason WeinbergandStephanie Simon.

Additionally, Grandview’sMerideth Bajana,Jeremy Platt,andBen Rowewill be joining the Untitled partner ranks that includeEvan Hainey,Elise Konialian,Jennifer Levine,Jason Newman,recently promotedSteven Nossokoff,andAlissa Vradenburg.

Tpg, which a year ago sold its majority stake inCAA,in June acquired the Untitled majority stake from Canada-based Boat Rocker and...

On Sunday October 13 2024, ABC broadcastsCelebrity Family Feud!

Haunted MansionCast:Tiffany Haddishvs.Justin SimienSeason 9 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Celebrity Family Feud”titled “Haunted MansionCast: Tiffany Haddish vs. Justin Simien” promises an entertaining showdown between two talented celebrities. This episode will air on ABC and features comedian Tiffany Haddish competing against filmmaker Justin Simien. Both contestants are known for their impressive work in the entertainment industry, and their lively personalities are sure to bring excitement to the game.

Tiffany Haddish, celebrated for her infectious humor and memorable roles in films like “Girls Trip,”is ready to bring her competitive spirit to the stage. She is joined by her family members, who will assist her in answering survey questions and competing against Justin Simien’s team. Simien, known for his work on projects like “Dear White People,”will showcase his own unique style and wit as...

On Sunday night’s episode ofCelebrity Family Feud,the cast ofHaunted Mansion,includingTiffany HaddishandJustin Simien,face off in a battle of wits and charity fundraising. Hosted by the inimitableSteve Harvey.The ABC game show pits two celebrity families or teams against each other in a series of fun and challenging […]

Celebrity Family Feud:Haunted MansionCast: Tiffany Haddish vs. Justin Simien...

Justin Simien’s four-part docuseries Hollywood Black tells the story of cinema through the perspectives of Black creators and talents. Adapted fromDonald Bogle’s book and directed by Simien himself, theMGM+program reframes how we understand the development of movies by centering Black voices and histories. In each episode, Simien sits down with a range of guests—from actors and scholars to fellow filmmakers—to gain new insight into landmark works and overlooked figures through lively discussion.

While comprehensive is an unrealistic goal given its limited format, Hollywood Black offers thought-provoking examination of how racial politics have continually shaped the industry. Simien makes a compelling case that without Black participation from the very start, the moving image simply wouldn’t exist in the same way. We follow his journey to recover ignored contributors and place icons in fuller context against the ebbs and flows of representation over decades.

Justin Simien’s four-part docuseries Hollywood Black tells the story of cinema through the perspectives of Black creators and talents. Adapted fromDonald Bogle’s book and directed by Simien himself, theMGM+program reframes how we understand the development of movies by centering Black voices and histories. In each episode, Simien sits down with a range of guests—from actors and scholars to fellow filmmakers—to gain new insight into landmark works and overlooked figures through lively discussion.

While comprehensive is an unrealistic goal given its limited format, Hollywood Black offers thought-provoking examination of how racial politics have continually shaped the industry. Simien makes a compelling case that without Black participation from the very start, the moving image simply wouldn’t exist in the same way. We follow his journey to recover ignored contributors and place icons in fuller context against the ebbs and flows of representation over decades.

On Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 10:30 Pm, ABC invites viewers to join the fun with a thrilling new episode of “Celebrity Family Feud,”titled “Haunted MansionCast:Tiffany Haddishvs.Justin Simien.”This episode brings together two vibrant personalities, Tiffany Haddish and Justin Simien, as they lead their celebrity teams in a battle of wits and laughter.

Tiffany Haddish, known for her infectious energy and sharp humor, will be bringing her A-game as she faces off against director Justin Simien. With his unique perspective and creativity, Justin is sure to offer a formidable challenge. Fans can expect a delightful mix of hilarious answers and unexpected moments as both teams compete for bragging rights and a charitable cause.

As always, the show promises plenty of surprises, laughter, and heartwarming interactions. Whether it’s Haddish’s quick comebacks or Simien’s clever strategies, this episode of “Celebrity Family Feud”is set to be...

Celebrity Family Feudfans, we’ve got a fresh off the press preview for the new Season 9 episode titledHaunted MansionCast:Tiffany Haddishvs.Justin Simien!

Find out everything you need to know about theHaunted MansionCast: Tiffany Haddish vs. Justin Simien episode ofCelebrity Family Feud,including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!

Celebrity Family FeudHaunted Mansion Cast: Tiffany Haddish vs. Justin Simien Season 9 Preview

The upcoming episode of “Celebrity Family Feud”on ABC promises to be a thrilling showdown as beloved comedian Tiffany Haddish goes head-to-head with filmmaker Justin Simien. Scheduled to air at 10:30 Pm on October 13, 2024, this episode is sure to entertain fans with its blend of humor and competitive spirit.

In this special installment, Tiffany Haddish, known for her quick wit and infectious laughter, will lead her team against Justin Simien, the talented creator of “Dear White People.

We first heard of plans for a Lando TV series in December 2020 during a Disney Investor Day.Lucasfilmsurprised Star Wars fans who tuned in by revealing thatJustin Simienwould serve as showrunner on the project, withDonald Glovertapped to reprise his role as the iconic character after first playing him in 2018'sSolo: A Star Wars Story.

Unfortunately, the show quickly got stuck in development hell, withGloverfrequently left to dodge questions about whether he was going to reprise the role first made famous by Billy Dee Willaims.

As for Simien, the series was repeatedly brought up in interviews when he was doing the rounds to promote Disney'sHaunted Mansionmovie last year. Admitting that he'd heard nothing from them about the show since it was announced, the filmmaker said the studio told him they had to figure out everyone's availability...only to later learn -...

Donald Glover,who will soon be spearheading the Disney andLucasfilmventure Lando, wants to inject the Star Wars universe with “fun,” saying the franchise can be “way too serious” at times.

“I just want it to be fun,” the actor-rapper told the Wall Street Journal in a recent video interview. “As a Star Wars fan myself, I think it’s important that there’s just — there just needs to be more fun being had.”

The Atlanta star-producer continued, referencing the strife present in the galaxy, “It’s very hard to have fun right now. It’s tough because there are very serious things happening. Those are the only things that connect us, weirdly, so I get why things are serious but part of the human experience, I believe, is we have a responsibility to have an enjoyment, and I just feel like we’re lacking in that department.”

Glover,...

Donald Gloveris set to return as “Star Wars” fan-favorite Lando Calrissian in a movie he’s developing for Disney andLucasfilmalongside his brother and frequent collaboratorStephen Glover,and all Donald Glover wants to do is to bring the fun back to the “Star Wars” franchise.

“I just want it to be fun,” he recently toldThe Wall Street Journalduring a video interview. “As a ‘Star Wars’ fan myself, I think it’s important that there needs to be fun being had.”

“It’s very hard to have fun right now,” Donald Glover continued. “It’s tough because there are very serious things happening and those are the only things that connect us, weirdly. So I get why things are serious, but part of the human experience, I believe, is we have a responsibility to have enjoyment. And I just feel like we’re lacking in that department.

Donald Gloveris still part of the “Star Wars” franchise with the resurrected “Lando”film.

The multi-hyphenate star told the Wall Street Journal in the below video that “Lando”is still in the works despite writer/directorJustin Simienexiting the planned series. The Disney+ show was re-conceptualized as a film, withGloverand his brotherStephen Glovertaking over.

And Glover has a specific vision for how “Lando”can breathe new life into the franchise itself.

“I just want it to be fun, like, as a ‘Star Wars’ fan myself, I think it’s important that there just needs to be more fun being had,” Glover said. “It’s very hard to have fun right now. It’s tough because there are very serious things happening, and those are the only things that connect us, weirdly, so I get why things are serious, but, part of the human experience,...

Donald Gloverhopes his ‘Star Wars’ Lando Calrissian movie will be "more fun" than previous entries in the franchise.The 40-year-old actor - who took over fromBilly Dee Williamsas the suave scoundrel in 2018’s ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ - is due to play the character again in the upcoming film and has teased what he envisions for the project.In an interview posted by WSJ. Style onYouTube,he said: "I just want it to be fun, like, as a ‘Star Wars’ fan myself, I think it's important that there just needs to be more fun being had." It’s very hard to have fun right now. It's tough because there are very serious things happening, and those are the only things that connect us, weirdly, so I get why things are serious, but, part of the human experience, I believe, is we have a responsibility to have enjoyment.

Ry Barrettas Johnny inChris Nashin ‘In a Violent Nature’ (Photo Courtesy ofPierce Derks/ AnIFC Films&ShudderRelease)

Shudder’s launching their 2024 “Season of Screams” program lineup on Friday, September 13th, kicking off the spooky season withIn A Violent Nature.This year’s three-month event includes watch parties, new films, series, and specials, as well as the return of the Ghoul Log.

Per Shudder: “The team behind the new Shudder original series Horror’s Greatest resurrects everyone’s favorite jack-o-lantern just in time for spooky season with The Rise of the Ghoul Log. The new hour-long video of the chilling, candlelit pumpkin sets the scene for horror fans beginning in October.”

Films screening on the streamer as part of “Season of Screams” includeThe Exorcism,V/H/S/Beyond,It Follows,Hush,andThe Houses October Built.All three seasons of Chucky and the new...

“The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula”has quickly become a Halloween season staple on horror streaming serviceShudder,and that continues with season six’s premiere this October. Today brings the annoucement of the new cast ahead of the upcoming season’s arrival.

The series and its hosts return for a supersized, hour and a half-long season six premiere episode on Tuesday, October 1 on Shudder andAMC+.Following the premiere, all-new hour-long episodes will debut weekly on Tuesdays.

Dubbed “Season 666,” the next chapter ofThe Boulet Brothers’ Dragulais the most ambitious and terrifying yet, with world-renowned actors and directors joining the judges’ panel, raising the stakes to hellish new heights. Every episode promises spine-chilling, extreme physical feats that will push the cast of drag superstars to confront their darkest fears. This 10-episode season is bigger, bloodier, and more brutal than anything that’s come before, featuring expanded “on location” challenges, twisted new themes for the floorshows,...

Nothing could be more LA than a weekend at the fabulous Forum; the celebrities court-side, the drama(s), and all those players doing it for the love of the game. No we’re not talking about the Winning Time Showtime Lakers, we’re talking the 2024Film IndependentForum. We’re set for another jampacked year, filled with screenings, panels, workshops, one-on-one meetings and networking receptions. And all of that is jammed into two action packed days. Get your passes right here, right now.

The official schedule can be found here—but we can guarantee another great year of wide-ranging and inclusive conversation about the winning strategies for the art and business of independent film. With panels and networking events like Industry Connect, we’ll help you find the right teammates and creative juices needed to sustain a long-term career in the filmmaking arena.

“This year’s Forum will explore our...

The Boulet Brothers‘ Dragulais returning for a sixth season this fall!

Just in time for Halloween, the new season will debut onShudderandAMC+in October, featuring a new batch of drag performers competing throughout ten episodes.

“This season, we’re pushing the boundaries of what horror and drag can be. Expect the unexpected, because we’re dragging our monsters deeper into the darkness than ever before,”Dracmorda Bouletshared in a statement.

“Each season we strive to unearth the most terrifying and innovative talent, and this year, the competition is deadlier, the challenges are more brutal, the artistry is unmatched, and the fear is real,”Swanthula Bouletadds.

Keep reading to find out more…

Here’s a season six synopsis: Dubbed “Season 666,” the next chapter ofThe Boulet Brothers’ Dragulais the most ambitious and terrifying yet, with world-renowned actors and directors joining the judges’ panel, raising...

Exclusive:SNLalumJay Pharoahon Thursday announced Jared, a new comedy special to premiere onYouTubeon September 22, also unveiling a trailer, which you can view above.

In his new hour,Pharoahdelivers a fully charged performance, ripping the lid off pop culture, his suburban upbringing, and run-in with the law, all while sharing his unique perspective on self-discovery and resilience in a world that never stops laughing.

Taped at The Den Theatre in Chicago, Il, the special is his second on the heels of Showtime’s Jay Pharoah: Can I Be Me? (2015), which saw him perform his spot-on impressions of everyone fromBarack ObamatoChris RockandDave Chappelle.

Produced by 800 Pound Gorilla and Premature Miracle Productions, Jared is directed byPharaoh’s sister and manager,Shaina Farrow.Pharoah andFarrowexec produced alongsideAdam GinivisianandJordan Levy.

A comedian, actor and master impressionist who was...

In Episode 3 ofJustin Simien’s film history docuseries “Hollywood Black,”the director looked back at the 1990s. It’s a decade in which Hollywood’s eyes were opened to the financial possibilities of Black creatives telling Black stories by the incredible box office and critical success ofJohn Singleton’s “Boyz n the Hood”(1991). The film created such a cultural moment it would serve as a turning point, giving birth to a whole slate of movies, like “Juice”and “Menace II Society,”that told dramatic coming-of-age stories of young Black men wrestling with violence in American inner cities.

While the Black creators and historians Simien interviewed for the docuseries pay tribute to the artistic achievement of these individual films, “Hollywood Black”also explores how, collectively, this explosion of Black mainstream films was a double-edged sword for filmmakers. It’s a topic Simien discussed in further detail when he was...

Paramounttook to social media to announce that production has begun onStar Trek: Starfleet Academyand no one looks more thrilled thanPaul Giamatti.The Academy Award-nominated actor is a bigStar Trekfan and is set to play the main villain of the series. You can catch him in the image below throwing up the doubleVulcansalute with his fellow cast members outside the Star Trek Stage at Pinewood Studios in Toronto.

Taking place in the 32nd-century era ofStar Trek: Discovery,Starfleet Academy will follow a new class of Starfleet cadets as they come of age in one of the most legendary places in the galaxy. The series starsKerrice Brooks(My Old Ass),Bella Shepard(Wolf Pack),George Hawkins(Tell Me Everything),Karim Diané(One Of Us Is Lying),Zoë Steiner(Significant Others), andSandro Rosta(Snitches Get Stitches). The cast also includesHolly Hunter...

In “Hollywood Black,”a four-part docuseries streaming onMGM+,directorJustin Simienchronicles the vast and untold history of the Black experience in Hollywood. Inspired by historianDonald Bogle’s book by the same title, the series unearths parts of film history that don’t get taught in film school, and puts into historical, cultural, and societal contexts those performers and films that did break through to the mainstream. When Simien was a guest on an upcoming episode of the Filmmaker Toolkit podcast, he talked about how he was inspired to make the series by his own recent discovery of films, filmmakers, and rich periods of Black cinema that he was previously unaware of and wasn’t taught in film school.

“I am so shocked because it’s not what you think, it’s not what you were conditioned to believe,” said Simien. “What you finally uncover is some of the work is so sophisticated,...

Exclusive:Universal International StudiosandSeth MacFarlane’s Fuzzy Door are set to develop a TV adaptation ofMatt Dinniman’s novel Dungeon Crawler Carl.Chris Yost,best known for writing Marvel’sThor: RagnarokandDisney+’sThe Mandalorian,is set to adapt the book.

Uis, which is part ofUniversal Studio Group,grabbed the rights to the novel in what’s described as a “highly competitive” situation, withUsg’s Creative Acquisitions and IP Management team playing a key role in the deal.

Dinniman’s indie novel Dungeon Crawler Carl has sold more than a million copies, initially having been self-published as an e-book and audiobook. Five sequels have followed, and Dinniman has raised major sums on Kickstarter to publish special editions. He recently signed a publishing deal withPenguin Random Houseand will a hardcover version of the book will release August 27.

The novel is set in...

On Tuesday August 20 2024,BETbroadcastsCelebrity Family Feud!

Haunted MansionCast:Tiffany Haddishvs.Justin Simienand Cruel Summer vs. The Wonder Years Season 9 Episode 3 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Celebrity Family Feud”promises an exciting showdown as the cast of “Haunted Mansion”faces off against the casts of “Cruel Summer” and “The Wonder Years.”This special episode will air on BET and features well-known stars like Tiffany Haddish and Justin Simien, who are ready to bring their competitive spirit to the game.

In this episode, the atmosphere is sure to be lively as the teams compete for a grand prize that will benefit their chosen charities. Each cast will bring their unique charm and humor, making for an entertaining hour of television. Fans of the shows can look forward to seeing how their favorite stars work together to answer questions and score points.

With Tiffany Haddish’s comedic...

On Tuesday, 20 August 2024, at 8:00 Pm,Celebrity Family Feudbrings a thrilling episode toBETwith Season 9, Episode 3. This week, the competition heats up as two star-studded teams face off for charity.

The cast of Haunted Mansion, includingTiffany HaddishandJustin Simien,goes head-to-head with the casts of Cruel Summer andThe Wonder Years.The teams will battle it out in a series of fun and challenging questions, aiming to win the grand prize for their chosen charities. The episode promises lively interactions and plenty of laughter as these celebrity teams showcase their quick thinking and family dynamics.

Fans of the show can look forward to an entertaining night filled with celebrity charisma and competitive spirit. With high stakes for a good cause, this episode ofCelebrity Family Feudis sure to be a highlight of the season.

Release Date & Time: 8:00 Pm Tuesday 20 August 2024 on BET

Celebrity Family...

Justin Simienhopes his new historical documentary series “Hollywood Black”will build confidence in upcoming Black filmmakers to pursue their independent projects, even if they don’t have all the resources in the beginning. The writer-director is also hopeful that the doc will help combat competitiveness among higher profile Black creatives in the industry.

“All you got to do is go after it, even if you don’t have all the answers,” Simien toldTheWrap.“I’m hoping that this documentary inspires people to have the nerve to just take the shot and to be Ok with not having the connections or the financing or whatever. Just go, just get it made.”

In Simien’s four-part docuseries — the first doc he’s ever directed — the filmmaker peels back the history of Black creatives in Hollywood and how their impact helped shape the entertainment industry in spite of the onslaught of bigotry they faced.

Justin Simien’s four-part documentary series “Hollywood Black”spotlights the impacts, challenges and triumphs of Black pioneers in Hollywood. And the doc’s first episode tackles the industry’s earliest portrayals of Black people in media, including minstrels and stereotypical characters — but also the Black leaders who set out to change the narrative.

“Cinema is not really possible without Blackness. For starters, Black is literally the thing that all cinema fades in from and fades out to,” Simien narrates in the series. “From its very beginnings, Hollywood has been fascinated with Blackness. Not only are we the first subjects in early motion pictures, but we are also the subject of the first blockbusters, early animation and of course, the first talkie.”

“In fact, every time Hollywood is looking to reinvent itself or expand its reach, it tends to do so with Black bodies,” Simien adds. “Consciously or not, Black faces make money,...

With “Hollywood Black,”Justin Simienpeels back the history of Black creatives in Hollywood and how their impact helped shape the entertainment industry despite the onslaught of bigotry they faced.

The four-part docuseries was inspired by historianDonald Bogle’s book “Hollywood Black: The Stars, the Films, the Filmmakers” and spotlights Black talent and resistance, starting with the silent film era.

The series, which Simien directed, features Hollywood notables likeAva DuVernay,Ryan CooglerandIssa Rae.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch.

When does “Hollywood Black”come out?

“Hollywood Black”will premiere onMGM+with its first episode on Sunday, Aug. 11.

Will “Hollywood Black”be streaming?

Yes, “Hollywood Black”will be streaming weekly on Sundays on MGM+ starting Sunday, Aug. 11, at 7 p.m. Pst. There are four episodes in the series; check out the episode release guide below:

Episode 1: “Built On Our Backs” — Aug.

Although more and more Black stories are making their way to TV screens and movie theaters, the experience of Black filmmakers, actors, and other creatives in Hollywood has been largely overlooked. The new docuseries “Hollywood Black,”premiering on the MGM+ App starting Sunday, Aug. 11, aims to help in rectifying that. The series explores Hollywood from the silent era all the way to the present day, through the lens of key Black figures who madeTinseltownwhat it is today. Stream the series with a 7-Day Free Trial of MGM+ App.

How to Watch ‘Hollywood Black’ When: Sunday, Aug. 11 TV: MGM+ App Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial ofMGM+ App 7-Day Free Trial $6.99+ / month viaamazon.comAbout ‘Hollywood Black’

Inspired by the book from historianDonald Bogle,this four-part docuseries, directed byJustin Simien,chronicles a century of the Black experience in Hollywood. By unearthing personal stories from actors,...

From the indignity of blackface minstrelsy and racist portrayals in the Birth of a Nation silent era to the blockbuster heroism of Black Panther in the Marvel era, theMGM+ docuseries Hollywood Black (inspired by cinema historianDonald Bogle’s book) is an immersive, fascinating and provocative cultural critique. “I want us to get excited about reclaiming our land in the so-called entertainment industry,” says host-directorJustin Simien(Dear White People). He doubles as professor and superfan over four jam-packed episodes of scholarship and opinion. We watch Simien as he screens classic and contemporary clips with filmmakers includingPanther’sRyan CooglerandSelma’sAva DuVernay,celebrating breakthroughs and lamenting the challenges of meaningful follow-through whenBlacksare excluded from the tools of production and distribution. (Example:Halle Berry’s career after her historic 2001 Oscar win for Best Actress inMonster’s Ball.) No icon is ignored, whether as of-the-moment...

Justin Simien’sHollywood Black,an edifying if focus-challenged four-part docuseries about the central yet under-appreciated African American contributions to cinema history, comes with a couple of semi-contradictions.

The documentary’s entire premise is based on the inadequacy of how film schools address the topic, yet it’s inspired by the book byDonald Bogle,whose Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies and Bucks has been indispensable in cultural studies classes for 50 years. It presumably aims to bring its topic to the widest possible modern audience, but does so on a streaming service —MGM+— whose footprint is rooted in the past and nearly negligible in the present.

Full of fascinating conversations with fascinating people and packed with interest-piquing clips,Hollywood Blacknevertheless falls well short of resembling a definitive documentary on the subject. But even well-informed viewers are bound to come away with several insights and a few overlooked texts to seek out.

It’s a Tuesday morning in late July, and at a gigantic warehouse-turned-production facility in L.A.’s Canoga Park,Kevin HartandKenan Thompsonare in one studio riffing on the Summer Olympics. On the other side of the building, comedianEarthquakeis recording a podcast. Meanwhile, between that building, another nearby and a third in West Hollywood, teams of staffers are running around, working on one of the two dozen other projects across TV, film, audio, branded entertainment and experiential events that Hart’s entertainment company, Hartbeat, has in the pipeline.

You know Kevin Hart, the comedian and star of films like “Ride Along,”“Central Intelligence”and the just released “Borderlands.”But he’d really like you to think of him as Kevin Hart, production maven. This year alone, he’s producedNetflix’s “The Roast of Tom Brady,”a revival of “Comic View”withBETand released...

Watch What Happens Live welcomes supermodel and businesswomanChanel Ayan,and filmmaker, actor, and authorJustin Simiento the show. Chanel Ayan, a Kenyan-born Somali and Ethiopian supermodel, joins the show to discuss her career and her role in theBravoreality seriesThe Real Housewives of Dubai.Ayanhas worked with top designers such […]

Watch What Happens Live: Chanel Ayan, Justin Simien...

Lando Showrunner Admits He's Still Grieving Over Canceled Star Wars Series - Main Image

OriginalLandoshowrunnerJustin Simienrecently opened up about his grieving process after the Star Wars series was cancelled.

Lucasfilmwas developing a Disney+ series that would have focused on a young Lando Calrissian fromSolo: A Star Wars Story,with Simien as the project's showrunner.

However, the plans were eventually shelved and the series was redeveloped into a feature film.Donald Gloverand his brotherStephen Glovertook over the project in its new iteration.

Justin Simien is Still 'Grieving' Over Cancelled Lando Series

In a recent interview, Simien shared his feelings over the cancellation of Star Wars spin-off seriesLandoand admitted he's still grieving, as the loss took an emotional toll on him.

"It was pretty developed. Yeah, there was aBible,there was concept art, there were scripts, but it just wasn’t meant to be.

A little more than a year ago, it was revealed that there was a behind the scenes shakeup of the “Lando”“Star Wars” spinoff series.Justin Simien,who was at one point the creative lead of the series, was replaced byDonald Glover.Eventually, the idea of turning it into a series was scrapped and “Lando”is now going to be a feature film.

Continue reading ‘Lando’: Justin Simien Compares Losing ‘Star Wars’ Spinoff Series To The “True Grief” Of Losing A Child at The Playlist.

The Lando Star Wars TV show’s showrunner reveals he learned about about its demise by reading the news, just like the rest of us.

At this point, even the most ardent of Star Wars fans are struggling to find the positives in Disney’s decade-long stewardship of the storied franchise. Years of mismanagement, botched projects and cancellations have left the live action portion of Star Wars in something of a messy state, with quality releases (such as 2022’sAndor) being few and far between.

When it comes to Star Wars feature films, bothLucasfilmand Disney have especially struggled, but there have been bright spots here and there. One such highlight wasDonald Glover’s portrayal of the charming rogue Lando Calrissian in the 2018 prequel film,Solo: A Star Wars Story.

Glover’s performance was received warmly, and taking on the character ofHan Solowas no easy job,...

After playing a younger Lando Calrissian inSolo: A Star Wars Story,actorDonald Gloverwas set to return as the character in a spinoff series of his own. However, last year series directorJustin Simienleft the project andGlovertook over creative duties along with his brotherStephen Glover.It was later announced that the series would be a film.

Simien recently opened up about losing the project and how it felt after working on it for so long. He mentioned that they had gone as far as creating the showbibleand that it felt terrible to lose the project after. However, fans are criticizing Simien’s analogy where he compared the project’s end to losing a child.

Former Lando Creator Receives Flak For An Absurd Analogy Donald Glover inSolo: A Star Wars Story| Credits:Lucasfilm

DespiteSolo: A Star Wars Storybombing at the box office,...

Justin Simienis opening up about the grief he felt after Disney’s decision to scrap his Star Wars: Lando series.

The filmmaker recently toldColliderthat the project was shelved despite reaching a significant stage in the development process. “It was pretty developed,” Simien recalled. “Yeah, there was aBible,there was concept art, there were scripts, but it just wasn’t meant to be.”

This took an emotional toll on theHaunted Mansiondirector: “For me, the answer is that you have to really face it. It is true grief. I’ve never had a child, I’ve never lost a child, but it’s what I imagine that pain might be like. You pour so much of your heart and soul into something, but ultimately, you don’t have control over whether it lives or dies, and it is a true grieving process.”

However, Simien shared that...

After failing to meet box office expectations with his 2023 reimagining of Disney’s “Haunted Mansion,”it seems things are starting to sour between writer/directorJustin Simienand theHouse of Mouse.The filmmaker was set to helm a series forDisney+centered around a young version of “Star Wars” favorite Lando Calrissian played byDonald Glover,but in a recent interview withCollider,Simien shared how despite a plethora of materials being produced, the studio chose to can the project.

“It was pretty developed,” Simien said. “Yeah, there was aBible,there was concept art, there were scripts, but it just wasn’t meant to be.”

Despite the emotional toll of dropping the project, Simien told Collider that processing the loss and recognizing what he gained in the process allowed him to move forward with grace.

“For me, it has to be done pretty straight on like, ‘I am in grief.

The Star Wars franchise has been at odds with their fans for quite some time now. The distance between the creators and those who consume the content they create has been growing more and more, with neither of them listening to what the other truly wants. Despite all the conflicts, fans will always be protective of the series from outsiders.

Donald Gloveras Lando Calrissian ILucasfilm

Even though recent projects have failed to impress fans, they will not hesitate to point out when someone is trying to add fuel to the fire of the fandom. Recently, a news reporting site published some misleading news about Donald Glover’s Lando series. Fans refused to be made fools of and pointed out their intentions.

Donald Glover’s Lando Project Has Not Been Cancelled

Donald Glover’sLandoseries has been highly anticipated by Star Wars fans. Since the announcement of the project,...

Justin Simien,known for being at the helm of acclaimed films and shows likeDear White PeopleandHaunted Mansion,has navigated plenty of unexpected twists and turns in his sci-fi career journey. From developing a highly anticipated Lando Calrissian series forDisney+to now co-creating an untitledStar Trekcomedy forParamount+,the director is boldly going where few have gone before.

Simien shared the behind-the-scenes story of developing the scrapped Disney+ show centered on everyone’s favorite smuggler, Lando, played byDonald Gloverin Solo. “We had a fullbible,scripts, and concept art in place,” Simien revealed. However, the plug was pulled in favor of reimagining it as a feature film spearheaded byGloverand his brother. The director said learning about the series being shelved from “the trades” was when it truly hit him.

While this setback left Simien grieving the loss of a passion project,...

Justin Simiensays theDonald Glover-starringSolo:A Star Wars Story spinoff seriesLandowill not be happening.

Colliderpublished remarks Friday from Simien indicating that Lando is dead.

Simien is out promoting Hollywood Black, anMGM+ docuseries based on the book by scholarDonald Bogleexamining race and representation in Hollywood. That’s when the Lando project came up.

“It was pretty developed,” he said. “There was aBible.There was concept art. There were scripts. But it just wasn’t meant to be.”

He added that he grieved for the project.

“For me, it has to be done pretty straight on. Like, ‘I am in grief. I do not feel good.’ I have to let myself feel those feelings,” he said. “There’s so much that I experience that I get to keep forever and take into the next project. I can’t obviously take the...

For a long time, the world ofStar Treksimply wasn’t that funny. Sure, there were the occasional moments of humor; the Enterprise becoming overrun with furry alien balls, Checkov asking about “Nuclear Wessels,”Dr.Crusherbeing brought to climax by the green Irish cloud monster that used to date her grandmother.

But then cameStar Trek: Lower Decks,fromRick and MortyproducerMike McMahan,which, somewhat unusually, poked fun atStar Trekfrom within theStar Trekfranchise itself.

Clearly the pivot to comedy was a successful one, because now theStar Trekfranchise is apparently going to give us a straight-up sitcom.

During the weekend’sStar TrekUniversepanel at San Diego Comic-Con, it was announced thatJustin Simien,ofDear White Peoplefame, and comedianTawny Newsome,who voices Lower Decks’ Ensign Mariner, are currently developing a “new live-actionStar Trekseries forParamount+.

San Diego Comic-Con 2024 was largely a return to normal. With a few baffling caveats.

Studios brought big presentations to Hall H, the local night life was booming and fans packed the halls and rooms of the convention center day after day.

At the same time, what was supposed to be a post-strike Sdcc serendipitously wasn’t, asSAG-AFTRAwent on strike against major video game companies on the first day of the con. Meanwhile, some major studios still stayed away while Marvel, making an expected triumphant return, still managed to drop a huge unexpected shocker.

Read on to see who won and who lost during yet another wild week at San Diego Comic-Con.

Winner: Marvel TheWrap

After a brutal 2023 that saw both “Ant-Manand the Wasp: Quantumania” and “The Marvels”flop, not to mention some other, ahem, problems the studio has faced,Marvel Studiosneeded a big win coming into to Sdcc.

Star Trekis going boldly into a new world: live-action comedy.

During theStar TrekUniversepanel at San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday,Tawny Newsome(Star Trek: Lower Decks) and moderator/Dear White People creatorJustin Simienannounced they are in development on aStar Treklive-action comedy atParamount+.

More from TVLineThe Boys'Karen FukuharaTalks Bittersweet Finale Ending: 'It Was a Really Emotional Moment'Dexter Spinoff's Molly Brown Teases Surprises for Fans in Original Sin Prequel: 'You Might KnowDexter's Backstory, But...'TVLine Items: FinalStar Trek: Lower DecksTrailer,Mayfair WitchesCasting and More

According to the official logline,...

The Star Trek Universe keeps expanding at warp speed.

Justin Simien,the writer-director behindDear White PeopleandThe Haunted Mansion,andTawny Newsome,one of the voice stars ofStar Trek: Lower Decks,are in development on a new live-actionStar Trekseries forParamount+.

The announcement was made Saturday during the Star TrekUniversepanel in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con by Simien, who was moderating, and Newsome, who was on stage.

The new series is intended to be an action comedy that, according toParamount,centers on Federation outsiders who are serving on a gleaming resort planet. Not only that, their day-to-day exploits are being broadcast to the entire quadrant.

Sources have said the show may have workplace comedy tones ofThe OfficeorParks and Recreation.

Simien said watching The Next Generation was a major influence on his writing in his formative years. “Dear White...

“Star Trek”is preparing to beam up some laughter.

Actor-writerTawny Newsome( “Star Trek: Lower Decks”) and writer-directorJustin Simienare developing a new live-action comedy set in the world of the storied sci-fi franchise.

The show will be set in the 25th century. According to an official logline, it will follow “Federation outsiders serving a gleaming resort planet find out their day-to-day exploits are being broadcast to the entire quadrant.”

Newsome and Simien announced the project, along with fellow executive producerAlex Kurtzman,during the “Star Trek”Universe panel at San Diego Comic-Con, which Simien moderated. Newsome was there with the cast of “Lower Decks” to discuss the fifth and final season of the animated comedy, in which Newsome voices Beckett Mariner, one of the junior officers on the USS Cerritos.

Simien, Newsome and Kurtzman will also write on the show.Aaron Baiers,Kyle Laursen,Rod RoddenberryandTrevor Rothwill executive produce.

A new series in development is going where noStar Trekshow has gone before – into live-action comedy. The project forParamount+was announced during the Star Trek Universe panel at Comic-Con by moderatorJustin SimienandTawny Newsome,voice actor fromStar Trek: Lower Decks.

The two are co-writing the half-hour comedy with the steward of theStar Trekfranchise,Alex Kurtzman,who will be making his half-hour writing debut.

No title or format (single-camera of multi-camera) have been revealed for the comedy, in which Federation outsiders serving a gleaming resort planet find out their day-to-day exploits are being broadcast to the entire quadrant.

Additional clues provided by Simien and Newsome include that the comedy will feature some 25th century shenanigans, odd couple pairings, and…vibes?

Kurtzman, Simien and Newsome executive produce alongsideAaron Baiers,Kyle Laursen,Rod RoddenberryandTrevor Roth.The project comes from the studio behind theStar Trekuniverse,...