Hollywood Outbreak

CHANNING TATUM IS THE PROVERBIAL “WHITE KNIGHT” IN ‘THE VOW’

Hollywood Outbreak — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:11:47 +0000

Now playing nationwide, The Vow features Channing Tatum as a romantic guy whose wife (Rachel McAdams) has suffered memory loss after a car accident. With two likeable leads and Chicago as its backdrop, the feature also is blessed with an Emmy winning filmmaker (Grey Gardens director Michael Sucsy) behind the camera.

During our interview with Sucsy for The Vow, the director, who described Channing Tatum as a “white knight” in real life, elaborated on why the actor was a perfect choice for the project (click on the media bar to hear Sucsy):

The Vow co-stars Jessica Lange, who worked with Sucsy on Grey Gardens.

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

‘STAR TREK’ VIDEO GAME SET FOR FIRST QUARTER 2013 RELEASE

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:48:20 +0000

Trekkers have waited a bit too long for J.J. Abrams’ Star Trek sequel (Star Trek came out in 2009 for Pete’s sake!!), but at least 2013 offers huge promise. The sequel comes out May 17th, but prior to its release gamers can check out the Star Trek video game, a title that hits stores during the first quarter of 2013. Namco Bandai Games Inc. will co-publish and distribute the co-op title, which allows gamers to play as both Kirk and Spock.

The video game, written by God of War scribe Marianne Krawczyk in collaboration with Star Trek writers Robert Orci and Alex Kurtzman, is being developed by Digital Extremes, the Ontario based company responsible for Bioshock 2, Unreal Tournament, and The Darkness II.

“Star Trek continues to be one of the most beloved entertainment properties around the world, and Namco Bandai Games America is extremely excited to be teaming up with Paramount Pictures to create the definitive Star Trek interactive experience,” says Namco Bandai Games America Marketing VP Carlson Choi.

I’m definitely on board to play this title, and although I’m not a Trekker by any stretch, there are moments of the Star Trek universe that still resonate: (”The City on The Edge of Forever” episode from the original series is still a stunner, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, sappy in all the right places, is my favorite whale film). I’m sure the video game won’t have the wistful tinge of the aforementioned stories, but shooting aliens with phasers not set to stun should hold a special place in my cold, Vulcan heart.

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

Josh Hutcherson Makes A Fantastical World Seem Real In ‘Journey 2: The Mysterious Island’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:00:44 +0000

Arriving in theaters today, JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND is a follow-up to the popular 2008 family adventure JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH. Directed by BRAD PEYTON and (very) loosely based on a novel by JULES VERNE, the cast includes DWAYNE JOHNSON, JOSH HUTCHERSON, LUIS GUZMAN, VANESSA HUDGENS, MICHAEL CAINE and KRISTIN DAVIS. A story of adventure rife with fantastical prehistoric-type creatures, the film was largely shot on location in Hawaii and required the cast to work extensivly with ”green screen” effects. During our recent interview, HUTCHERSON admitted it was quite a challenge. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND opens in theaters today

Fanboys Take Center Stage In New Reality Series ‘Comic Book Men’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:00:11 +0000

Writer, director and superhero enthusiast KEVIN SMITH brings his vast knowledge of comic books and memorabilia into play with the new AMC reality series COMIC BOOK MEN. Centered on SMITH’S own New Jersey comic book store, JAY AND SILENT BOB’S SECRET STASH, the show revolves around the handfull of quirky, off-beat guys who work at the shop and make comic books and graphic novels their passion.

Speaking to reporters at last month’s Television Critics Association press event, SMITH talked about his own love of comics and why he loves them. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO) NSFW!

Never one to mince words, he also offered his opinion on why women should look to comic book men for companionship. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO) NSFW!

COMIC BOOK MEN debuts Sunday night on AMC

Chris Pine Brings His Best Bond To ‘This Means War’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:00:26 +0000

Opening in theaters later this month, THIS MEANS WAR is a pretty standard issue romantic comedy centered on two best pal CIA agents who both fall for the same girl. Naturally, given their government positions, sabotage and subterfuge take the place of candy and flowers in the search for true romance. Directed by McG from a screenplay by TIMOTHY DOWLING and SIMON KINBERG, the principal cast consists of REESE WITHERSPOON, CHRIS PINE and TOM HARDY, with support from CHELSEA HANDLER, LAURA VANDERVORT, ABIGAIL SPENCER, ANGELA BASSETT and DAVE KOECHNER. Sitting down for a studio generated interview, PINE describes his character as being a little bit like James Bond…but with a twist.(CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THIS MEANS WAR opens in theaters 2/17

George Lucas Struggled To Get ‘Star Wars’ Prequels To The Screen

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:00:56 +0000

Opening in theaters today, STAR WARS: EPISODE I - THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D is creator GEORGE LUCAS’ first in the series of prequels written to supplement the original franchise. A remastered reboot that imbues the film with the absolute best state-of-the-art 3D technology in an effort to cash-in on the current 3D craze, it is arguably the most polarizing of the prequel trilogy and introduces fans the work of young JAKE LLOYD as wee Anakin Skywalker as well as the creation of JAR-JAR BINKS. A few years ago, we visited Skywalker Ranch in Northern California to interview LUCAS and he talked about how his prequels had to wait for technology to catch up before getting to the screen. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

STAR WARS: EPISODE I - THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D opens in theaters today

‘My Week With Marilyn’ Gets Its Close-Up On Blu-ray And DVD March 13

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 23:48:47 +0000

The critically acclaimed feature My Week With Marilyn, which netted Oscar nominations for Michelle Williams (as Marilyn Monroe) and Kenneth Branagh (Supporting Actor nod as Sir Laurence Olivier), heads to Blu-ray and DVD March 13th. The story is based on Colin Clark’s (Eddie Redmayne) memoir of his relationship with Monroe during the production of The Prince and the Showgirl.

Special features on the Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD include audio commentary from the film’s director (Simon Curtis) and the featurette “The Untold Story of an American Icon.”

Click on the media bar and listen to Williams talk about Marilyn Monroe’s unique voice:

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

Oscar Nominee Max VonSydow Builds Friendships With The Characters He Plays

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:26:29 +0000

Adapted from the best-selling novel by JONATHAN SAFRAN FOER by Academy Award-winner ERIC ROTH, EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE centers on a precocious 11-year-old New York City boy on a quest to come to terms with the death of his father in the World Trade Center terrorist attacks of 9/11/01. Directed by three-time Oscar-nominee ROGER DALDRY, the cast includes Oscar-winners TOM HANKS and SANDRA BULLOCK along with MAX VON SYDOW, VIOLA DAVIS, JOHN GOODMAN, JEFFREY WRIGHT, ZOE CALDWELL and newcomer THOMAS HORN.

Nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the mysterious, mute old man who accompanies the boy on his quest, VON SYDOW was last given an Academy Award nod 23-years-ago for his role in PELLE THE CONQUERER. At the Oscar luncheon earlier this week, he talked about what these two roles have in common. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

Katherine Heigl Stays True To The Source Material In ‘One For The Money’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:00:26 +0000

Currently in theaters, ONE FOR THE MONEY is the big-screen adaptation of mystery writer JANET EVANOVICH’S best-selling novel featuring bail bondsman/sleuth Stephanie Plum. Directed by JULIE ANNE ROBINSON, the film stars KATHERINE HEIGL, JASON O’MARA, DANIEL SUNJATA, JOHN LEGUIZANO, SHERRI SHEPHARD, DEBBIE REYNOLDS and DEBRA MONK. A long-time fan of EVANOVICH’S mystery novels, HEIGL made it a point as one of the producers of the film to stay true to the source material. At the recent press event to promote the movie, she talked about her behind-the-scenes efforts. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

ONE FOR THE MONEY is in theaters now

Demian Bichir Scores First Mexican Oscar Nod Since 1965

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:00:31 +0000

Available now on DVD and Blu-ray, A BETTER LIFE is the heartrending story of an undocumented immigrant’s quest for the American dream while trying to protect his teenaged son from the perils of growing up in a gang infested barrio. Directed by CHRIS WEITZ (ABOUT A BOY) from a story by ROGER L. SIMON (the Moses Wine series), the cast includes DEMIAN BICHIR, JOSE JULIAN, JOAQUIN COSIO and NANCY LENEHAN.

A success on pretty much all levels of storytelling, The father-son relationship is true to the point of being painful and the depiction of what it’s like to live illegally in the country you consider home is frustrating to say the least.

Nominated for a Best Actor Oscar, BICHIR is the first Mexican to get that nod since ANTHONY QUINN (ZORBA THE GREEK) in 1965. Earlier this week, he commented on that fact backstage at the Academy Awards luncheon. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

A BETTER LIFE is available on DVD and Blu-ray now

Fox Announces End-Of-The-Line For Fan Fave ‘House’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:00:17 +0000

The announcement hit yesterday afternoon that the long-time Fox-TV series HOUSE will stop production at the end of its current season. The series debuted on Fox in 2004 and was almost immediately a hit with fans as it became a major player on the Fox roster. Unfortunately, the show’s audience has dropped off while its production costs have escalated, making the network squeamish about carrying on.

Probably best known for his titular role in the series, accomplished actor HUGH LAURIE excels at bringing an acerbic sarcasm to his portrayal of a beleaguered doctor in a major medical center. It’s a quality that’s served him well and, he told us a while back that playing the character was one of the high points of his career. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

As a popular comic actor on British television, LAURIE admitted to us that he was shocked to get the chance at a plum dramatic role. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

HOUSE airs Monday nights on Fox

Rachel McAdams Finds Her “Touchstone” for ‘The Vow’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:00:16 +0000

Opening Friday to all the lovebirds and the broken hearts celebrating (or maybe pining) during Valentine’s Day Weekend, The Vow centers the lives of Paige (Rachel McAdams) and Leo (Channing Tatum), a happily married couple living as artists in Chicago. When Paige sustains memory loss after a car accident and has no recollection of her husband, Leo is determined to win her back. Scott Speedman, who did wonderful work as a loveable (and ultimately tragic) cad in Barney’s Version, co-stars as Paige’s ex-fiance.

During the press junket for The Vow, McAdams talked about finding her “touchstone” for the film:

Since I love Chicago and Rachel McAdams films, here’s a mix of both in the following “Wedding Memories” scene from The Vow:

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

‘American Idol’ And Brittany Kerr Hit Hollywood - Someone Call A Medic!!

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:24:32 +0000

A reality competition show is usually nothing without a heavy dose of drama, and American Idol never fails to deliver on that department. Tonight we enter Hollywood Week, a grueling process wherein just 70 out of 300 singers survive the cut. Hollywood is front and center for the next three episodes, as the hopefuls fight their way through solo and group performances, with the remaining survivors heading to Las Vegas to perform in Cirque du Soleil’s Viva ELVIS Theatre at Aria Resort & Casino (that two-hour installment airs February 16th at 8:00 pm et/pt).

Since I swim at the shallow end of the pool, my primary concern is if drop dead gorgeous Charlotte Bobcats dancer Brittany Kerr even makes it to Sin City. Although Jennifer Lopez is not exactly a big fan (she voted “no”), Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson put her through to Hollywood, and her rendition of Joss Stone’s “Spoiled,” though subdued, worked for me.

My early Idol favorites don’t do well in Hollywood (I’m talking to you Ebony Jointer and Josiah Leming!!), so I’m not gung-ho on Kerr’s longevity. Hopefully, Kerr won’t suffer the same fate as this face planting singer:

Who are your favorite Idols going into Hollywood Week? Will Brittany Kerr be one of the first cuts? Is the second time the charm for Colton Dixon, and does Colton’s younger sister (Schyler Dixon) have a shot? American Idol airs tonight and Thursday evening on Fox starting at 8 pm et/pt.

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

Denzel Washington Gets Sociopathic And Aims To Win In ‘Safe House’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 21:08:02 +0000

Denzel Washington stars with Ryan Reynolds in the action thriller Safe House, the story of a manipulative spy named Tobin Frost (Washington) who possesses rather valuable and dangerous intel. In the custody of the CIA, it’s up to an operative (Reynolds) to ensure Frost’s safety.

“He’s a murderer. He’s a liar. He’s a sociopath,” says Washington on his character. “He’s willing to do whatever it takes to win. All he’s interested in is winning. Even making the money is not the important thing for him. I think winning is the important thing.”

Click on the media bar and listen to Washington explain why Safe House reminded him of The Silence of the Lambs:

Safe House, co-starring Vera Farmiga, opens Friday.

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

Yeah, ‘The Vow’ Is A Chick-Flick, Wanna Make Somthin’ Out Of It?

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:00:23 +0000

Opening in theaters this week, THE VOW is the unabashedly sentimental story of a woman who suffers from (creatively selective) amnesia and the husband who tries to rekindle the love they enjoyed before her mental crash. Directed by MICHAEL SUCSY from a script by ABBY KOHN and MARC SILVERSTEIN, the cast includes RACHEL McADAMS, CHANNING TATUM, SCOTT SPEEDMAN, JESSICA LANGE and SAM NEILL.

Inspired by a true story, THE VOW most definitely falls into the category of “tear-jerker” or “chick flick”, two labels that are often considered pejoratives by filmmakers. So, it was refreshing that, during an interview to promote the film, screenwriters KOHN and SILVERSTEIN embraced the terms as just part of the territory. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE VOW opens in theaters Friday

Zac Efron Mystified By His New Movie, ‘The Paperboy’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:00:37 +0000

Soon to be heard as the voice of “Ted” in the big screen adaptation of the DR. SEUSS classic children’s book, THE LORAX, ZAC EFRON fans might be a wee bit disappointed that it’s only his voice being used in the film but can console themselves knowing that EFRON, in all his glory, will be seen later this year in THE PAPERBOY. Directed by LEE DANIELS from the novel by PETER DEXTER, THE PAPERBOY centers on a hot-shot journalist who returns to his rural hometown to get the story of a lifetime from a death row femme fatale.

The always charming EFRON sat down with entertainment reporters a couple of days ago and freely admitted that he doesn’t know how THE PAPERBOY has turned out but he was impressed with co-stars MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY, NICOLE KIDMAN and JOHN CUSACK. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE LORAX opens in theaters 3/2

THE PAPERBOY opens in theaters 11/23

Barack Obama’s Special Birthday Wish Still Breaks Betty White Up

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:14 +0000

Still going strong as one of the stars of the hit TV Land sitcom HOT IN CLEVELAND and soon to be heard as the voice of “Grandma” in the big screen adaptation of the DR. SEUSS classic THE LORAX, nonagenarian actress BETTY WHITE is as popular today as she was when she first conquered television as the star of LIFE WITH ELIZABETH in the early 1950s.

Recently feted with a prime-time special commemorating the occasion of her 90th birthday, WHITE was celebrated by past and present co-stars as well as getting a congratulatory video by PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA.

Sitting down with entertainment reporters a couple of days ago, WHITE confessed that the greeting from OBAMA came completely as a surprise and still makes her smile. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

HOT IN CLEVELAND airs Wednesdays on TV Land

THE LORAX opens in theaters 3/2

Chelsea Handler Reminisces About First Stand-Up Performance

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:32 +0000

Airing tonight on NBC, ARE YOU THERE, CHELSEA? is a freshman sitcom loosely based on the memoirs of comedienne CHELSEA HANDLER and offers a rose-tinted look at her early days of hard drinking and fast living. Part of what seems to be a new dawn of decidedly raunchy prime-time humor, the show might be considered a bit outre for some more conservative audiences. In an odd bit of casting, the sitcom stars LAURA PREPON in the titular role while HANDLER actually plays the role of her sister.

Probably best known for her stand-up comedy, HANDLER is certainly making her mark on the television landscape. During our recent interview at the Television Critics Association press event, she took a few moments to walk down memory lane and reminisce about her first time on the stand-up stage. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

ARE YOU THERE, CHELSEA? airs tonight on NBC

‘THIS MEANS WAR’ IS NOT A MOVIE “ABOUT THE HUMAN CONDITION” SAYS MCG

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:00:18 +0000

Opening February 14th, This Means War is an action spy comedy about two CIA operatives (Chris Pine, Tom Hardy) who are in love with the same woman (Reese Witherspoon). During the press conference to promote the film, McG was asked about the challenges of blending comedy (co-star Chelsea Handler is the picture’s resident scene stealer) and action into a cinematic gumbo pot.

McG, whose manic energy is infused in all of his movies, understands This Means War is pure entertainment and really not “about the human condition.” Listen to the filmmaker talk about why it was natural for him to blend different genres with This Means War:

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

RACHEL MCADAMS IS “BLESSED” TO WORK WITH DIRECTOR TERRENCE MALICK

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Rachel McAdams’ latest film The Vow, the story of two lovers whose relationship takes a hit after the woman (McAdams) suffers memory loss, opens Friday. Although I almost shed a tear during the closing moments of The Notebook (darn you, James Garner!) and am drawn to the surprisingly somber The Time Traveler’s Wife, The Vow isn’t really on my to-do list when it opens nationwide Friday (lack of a soulmate will do that to you).

It’s her next film that’s peaked my interest. During the interviews for The Vow, McAdams did mention a few words regarding her collaboration with director Terrence Malick in a currently untitled feature co-starring Ben Affleck and Javier Bardem.

“It was extraordinary,” says McAdams on her collaboration with Malick. “I think he’s so revolutionary as a filmmaker. He’s a real auteur. I loved Tree of Life. I thought it was really groundbreaking. So yeah, I’m very blessed to be a part (of that movie).”

Click on the media bar and listen to McAdams elaborate on why Terrence Malick is a special filmmaker:

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

ABC Resets The Bar For Scary With ‘The River’

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:24 +0000

Making its series debut tonight on ABC, THE RIVER is a genuinely frightening new show from OREN PELI, the director of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY. When the host of a wildlife TV program disappears in the Amazon, his wife and son enlist a camera crew to help find him and instead find a really, really unfriendly jungle. Executive produced by STEVEN SPIELBERG, the show features a cast that includes BRUCE GREENWOOD, LESLIE HOPE, JOE ANDERSON, ELOISE MUMFORD and PAUL BLACKTHORNE.

Hands down, one of the best pilots we’ve seen this season, the series gets even better with episode two. At the recent Television Critics Association press event, PELI talked about how the show came to be. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE RIVER debuts tonight on ABC

New To Blu: The Tale Winds Down With ‘The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Pt. 1′

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:00:01 +0000

Arriving on DVD and Blu-ray on 2/11, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1 is the penultimate installment in the popular series of films adapted from the best-selling novels of STEPHENIE MYERS. Undeniable blockbusters, the movies made superstars and household names of KRISTEN STEWART, ROBERT PATTINSON and TAYLOR LAUTNER as they told tales of teen-age lust, vampires and werewolves. And, as evidenced by the continued box office success, the popularity of the franchise shows no sign of waning. We caught up with KRISTEN STEWART at the theatrical premiere of the film and even she seemed mystified by the loyal fan response to the series. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PT. 1 is available on DVD and Blu-ray 2/11

For Dwayne Johnson There Was Nothing ‘Mysterious’ About Wanting To Film In Hawaii

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:00:54 +0000

Opening in theaters this weekend, JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND is a follow-up to the popular 2008 family adventure JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH. This time around, an adventurous teen and his step-father are joined by a risk-taking helicopter pilot and his beautiful daughter as they follow distress signals from a South Pacific island that doesn’t exist on any map. Directed by BRAD PEYTON and (very) loosely based on a novel by JULES VERNE, the cast includes DWAYNE JOHNSON, JOSH HUTCHERSON, LUIS GUZMAN, VANESSA HUDGENS, MICHAEL CAINE and KRISTIN DAVIS.

A story of adventure in exotic settings, the film was largely shot on location in Hawaii making the decision to sign-on pretty easy for JOHNSON. During the recent press event to promote the film, JOHNSON (a.k.a. THE ROCK) admitted that the location couldn’t have been more perfect. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND opens in theaters Friday

The Stars Shine At Annual Academy Awards Luncheon

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:40:17 +0000

Over 150 Oscar nominees showed up for the annual Academy Award luncheon held this afternoon at the legendary Beverly Hilton Hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills. Facing entertainment reporters at a press conference adjacent to the ballroom where the meal was served, nominees were charming as they answered questions on a variety of subjects:

For VIOLA DAVIS, being a Best Actress nominee for her role in THE HELP means attending posh events (like this one) and she admits that’s something completely out of character (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

GEORGE CLOONEY (nominated for his role in THE DESCENDANTS) seemed sincere in saying that being nominated isn’t so much about competition as it is getting together with friends he doesn’t see as often as he’d like. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

KENNETH BRANAGH took the opportunity to talk about playing LAURENCE OLIVIER in the biopic MY WEEK WITH MARILYN. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

For GLENN CLOSE, her nomination for ALBERT NOBBS is the culmination of a 14 year dream. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

And, MONEYBALL nominees double-teamed the crowd of reporters to give their thoughts on why the film resonated with audiences to the degree it did. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE 84th ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS SHOW will air 2/26 on ABC

BRIDGIT MENDLER TRAVELS TO ‘THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:12:47 +0000

Bridgit Mendler, star of the Disney Channel series Good Luck Charlie, is also featured in the animated film The Secret World of Arrietty. Based on Mary Norton’s novel The Borrowers (it was also adapted into a 1997 film headlined by John Goodman), The Secret World of Arrietty centers on a 14-year-old girl (voiced by Mendler), who is just a couple of inches high.

When Arrietty meets a 12-year-old boy named Shawn (voiced by David Henrie) she unwittingly puts her own family in jeopardy. During a recent interview, Mendler talked about the process of recording the voice of Arrietty. “My sound booth experience was I’d stand there in front of a giant screen with my headphones and say some random line or make some random noise,” said Mendler, who is currently working on the third season of Good Luck Charlie and recording an album which will be released later this year. “We just go down the script and there would be a packet of 40 pages I’d do for the day and then we’d take a break every few hours…it’s really low key. It’s not like you have to dress a certain way. There weren’t cameras there for the majority of it, so it made things very easy.”

Click on the media bar and listen to Bridget talk about the joy she gets from her music career (Mendler’s song “Summertime” is featured on The Secret World of Arrietty):

The Secret World of Arrietty opens February 17th.

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

George Lucas’ Latest Cash-Grab Adds Another Dimension To ‘Star Wars: Episode I’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:00:24 +0000

Opening in theaters later this week, STAR WARS: EPISODE I - THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D is yet another walk to the STAR WARS well for filmmaker GEORGE LUCAS. Anticipated by fans and dreaded by cynics, the jury is out on how audiences will react to this remastered reboot that imbues the film with the absolute best state-of-the-art 3D technology. Arguably the most polarizing of the prequel trilogy, this reissue of THE PHANTOM MENACE will allow fans to enjoy the work of young JAKE LLOYD as wee Anakin Skywalker as well as the creation of JAR-JAR BINKS in a whole new dimension. A few years ago, we visited Skywalker Ranch in Northern California to interview LUCAS and he spoke with pride about how his STAR WARS franchise has affected modern film. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

STAR WARS: EPISODE I - THE PHANTOM MENACE 3D opens in theaters Friday

‘2 Broke Girls’ Gets A Little Funnier With The Addition Of Jennifer Coolidge

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:56 +0000

Airing tonight on CBS, 2 BROKE GIRLS is a 30-minute sitcom about two young women from diametrically opposed backgrounds, forced by circumstance to strike-up an unlikely friendship. Written and produced by MICHAEL PATRICK KING and WHITNEY CUMMINGS, the cast features KATT DENNINGS, BETH BEHRS, MATTHEW MOY, JONATHAN KITE, GARRETT MORRIS and, returning tonight for a three episode arc, JENNIFER COOLIDGE. Probably best known as “Stifler’s mom” from the popular AMERICAN PIE franchise and her recurring role in ABC Family’s SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER, COOLIDGE joins 2 BROKE GIRLS as a mysterious upstairs neighbor who might have a job offer for them.

During our recent interview, BEHRS talked about playing Caroline, the poor little (formerly) rich girl. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

2 BROKE GIRLS airs tonight on CBS

Historically Speaking: A Disney Classic Celebrates Its 59th Birthday

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:00:40 +0000

It’s a landmark week for Disney animation as the studio prepares to release for the first time ever a restored and remastered Blu-ray of the 1955 clasic LADY AND THE TRAMP. In addition to that, it was on this very day in 1953, WALT DISNEY PICTURES released PETER PAN. One of the few productions of JAMES BARRIE’s story to actually feature a male in the lead (BOBBY DRISCOLL), DISNEY’S animated PETER PAN is a classic in the true sense of the word and features some of the most stunning 2-D animation ever created. We’ve loved many theatrical and cinematic versions of this ageless story but this film still tops the list.

PETER PAN is available on DVD now

LADY AND THE TRAMP will be available on Blu-ray tomorrow

Megan Hilty Brings The Magic Of Broadway Home With ‘Smash’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:00:02 +0000

Premiering tonight on NBC, SMASH is a new series centered on the world of Broadway musical theater. Executive-produced by STEVEN SPIELBERG, the series follows the conception and theatrical mounting of a musical production based on the life of screen legend MARILYN MONROE. DEBRA MESSING and ANGELICA HUSTON headline a cast that also includes AMERICAN IDOL finalist KATHARINE McPHEE and WICKED star MEGAN HILTY.

As one of the young actresses up for the lead in the show-within-a-show, HILTY took the job very seriously. During our recent interview, she talked about the extensive research she did on the iconic superstar, MARILYN MONROE.

SMASH debuts tonight on NBC

‘SMASH’ ACTRESS KATHERINE MCPHEE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A “BIG DREAMER”

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:11:35 +0000

The TV series Smash, which centers on two rival actresses (Katharine McPhee, Megan Hilty) vying for the lead role in a Marilyn Monroe musical, premieres tonight (NBC, 10 pm et/pt). McPhee, a former American Idol finalist, sees a bit of herself in the role of Karen, a Midwestern gal living in the Big Apple to pursue her nascent acting career.

“I’ve always been a big dreamer and like a lot of people pursing their dreams, I’ve had a lot of heartache and disappointments and going in for parts and not getting them,” says McPhee. “But I don’t know where the perseverance kind of comes from. It’s sort of in you - you don’t have a choice. I was a big dreamer as a kid. I used sit in front of the mirror and practice crying scenes - silly things like that. I think you have to be a big dreamer to have something come true.”

Click on the media bar to hear McPhee talk about where she sees Smash going if there is a season two:

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi

‘CHRONICLE’ BEATS OUT ‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’ AT THE BOX OFFICE WITH $22 MILLION DEBUT

Hollywood Outbreak — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:50:58 +0000

Chronicle, the story of a group of teenagers with superpowers, was the #1 film over the weekend, taking in $22 million, followed by fellow newcomer The Woman in Black, which made $21.1 million. The whale movie Big Miracle had a relatively disappointing debut, as it placed fourth with $8.5 million (the picture’s budget is estimated at $40 million). Here’s the top 10:

1. Chronicle - $22 million

2. The Woman in Black - $21.1 million

3. The Grey - $9.5 million

4. Big Miracle - $8.5 million

5. Underworld: Awakening - $5.6 million

6. One for the Money - $5.25 million

7. Red Tails - $5 million

8. The Descendants - $4.6 million

9. Man on a Ledge - $4.5 million

10. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - $3.925 million

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‘THE BACHELOR’ CLIP: WILL COURTNEY’S MIND GAMES RUIN JAMIE’S SHOT AT BEN?

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:34:22 +0000

I thought this season’s The Bachelor would give us, to coin an Eagles song, a “peaceful, easy feeling,” especially since Ben Flajnik is a laid back and levelheaded dude. So finding the right girl would be easy as pie for our San Francisco guy, correct? Unfortunately, love is rarely predictable.

Thanks to frontrunner Courtney, the model with the heart of stone and nerves of steel, our beloved Ben may be walking into a world of hurt. It’s sad for Ben, but makes great viewing, as her manipulative schemes and lack of scruples make The Bachelor much more fun than Brad Womack’s recent stab.

Last week’s installment had the self-centered (and deliciously sarcastic) model skinny dipping with Ben, and don’t be surprised if Courtney’s secret comes out during this week’s trip to Panama. Will All-American girl (and my favorite to get the final rose) Kacie B wilt under Courtney’s mind games? Fighting Courtney is not a great idea at this stage of the game, as Emily can attest to (Ben seemed particularly irritated when Emily brought up Courtney to him…again!!).

On the other hand, succumbing to Courtney’s willpower and just stepping aside is probably not the best move either, as Jamie proves she just can’t make a love connection with Ben when Miss Do Wrong is in the house. Check out the following clip and see Jamie (who has probably received as much, if not less screen time than Courtney’s BFF Casey S.) completely drop the ball with our resident bachelor, thanks to you know who.

So is Courtney Robertson even worse than The Bachelorette vet Bentley Williams, aka the guy who broke Ashley Hebert’s heart? Or does Courtney have real feelings for Ben? Tell us what you think! A new episode of The Bachelor airs Monday (ABC, 8 pm et/pt)

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A Tough Journey Awaits ‘Spartacus: Vengeance’ As The Revolution Heats Up

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:00:53 +0000

Airing tonight on STARZ, the delightfully graphic SPARTACUS: VENGEANCE continues its reign of bloody battles as this second season continues to re-enforce the show’s eponymous hero’s place as the greatest gladiator in history. Created for STARZ by STEVEN DeKNIGHT, the cast includes LIAM McINTYRE (brought in to replace the late ANDY WHITFIELD as Spartacus), LUCY LAWLESS, MANU BENNETT, JOHN HANNAH, PETER MENSAH and NICK TARABAY.

At the recent Television Critics Association press event to promote the new season, McINTYRE talked about his concerns that this is a season of change for SPARTACUS, while McINTYRE said he’s ready for action.. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

SPARTACUS: VENGEANCE airs tonight on STARZ

Stage And Screen Stardom Brings Daniel Radcliffe Fame, Fortune And Weird Fan Encounters

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:00:41 +0000

Harry Potter star DANIEL RADCLIFFE crosses over to a more adult role with today’s release of THE WOMAN IN BLACK, a gothic thriller reminiscent of such films as THE OTHERS and THE HAUNTING. Directed by JAMES WATKINS from a script by JANE GOLDMAN, the cast also features JANET McTEER, CIARAN HINDS, MISHA HANDLEY, ROGER ALLAM and SOPHIE STUCKEY.

A veteran of stage and screen, RADCLIFFE has been the object of fan affection since first taking on the iconic Harry Potter role at the age of ten. But, he tells us, it was while appearing on stage last year in HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING that he had his strangest fan encounter. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE WOMAN IN BLACK opens in theaters today

Drew Barrymore Hopes ‘Big Miracle’ Message Isn’t Heavy Handed

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:35 +0000

Opening in theaters today, BIG MIRACLE is a family friendly adventure story about the efforts of a small Alaskan town to save a family of gray whales trapped beneath rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Directed by KEN KWAPIS and inspired by real events, the cast features DREW BARRYMORE, JOHN KRASINSKI, KRISTEN BELL, DERMOT MULRONEY, TED DANSON, VINESSA SHAW, STEPHEN ROOT and TIM BLAKE NELSON.

What could have been a biting satire in the vein of BILLY WILDER’S classic ACE IN THE HOLE comes off more like the faith-based slanted THE BLIND SIDE. But, that’s not to say there’s no message to be had. During out recent interview with BARRYMORE, she talked about what the movie has to say. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

BIG MIRACLE opens in theaters today

‘This Means War’ Star Reese Witherspoon Takes Being A Role Model Seriously

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:00:09 +0000

Adding a little firepower to this Valentine’s Day movie releases, THIS MEANS WAR centers on the battle that ensues when two best pal CIA agents discover that they’ve fallen for the same girl. Naturally, given their government positions, sabotage and subterfuge take the place of candy and flowers in the search for true romance. Directed by McG from a screenplay by TIMOTHY DOWLING and SIMON KINBERG, the principal cast consists of REESE WITHERSPOON, CHRIS PINE and TOM HARDY, with support from CHELSEA HANDLER, LAURA VANDERVORT, ABIGAIL SPENCER, ANGELA BASSETT and DAVE KOECHNER.

Academy Award-winner REESE WITHERSPOON has been a big-screen staple for over 20 years and, over that time, been considered a role model by a generation of young women. During a recent interview, she admitted that is a position she doesn’t take lightly. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THIS MEANS WAR opens in theaters 2/14

Josh Hutcherson Felt Kinship With His ‘Hunger Games’ Character

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:00:21 +0000

Soon to be seen in the family adventure JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND, JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND, former child-star JOSH HUTCHERSON stands to score really big next month with his take on Peeta Mellark, the central character in the big-screen adaptation of SUZANNE COLLINS’ young-adult bestseller THE HUNGER GAMES. Co-written and directed by GARY ROSS, THE HUNGER GAMES cast also includes JENNIFER LAWRENCE, LIAM HEMSWORTH, ELIZABETH BANKS, WOODY HARRELSON, ALEXANDER LUDWIG and STANLEY TUCCI.

A popular actor who managed to make the change from kid actor to teen hunk, HUTCHERSON recently explained to us why he wanted the role in THE HUNGER GAMES and why he feels so close to the character of PEETA. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND opens in theaters 2/10

THE HUNGER GAMES opens in theaters 3/23

Historically Speaking: This Was A Bad Day For Rock ‘N’ Roll

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:10 +0000

On this day in 1959, Rock stars Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson were killed when their chartered Beechcraft Bonanza plane crashed in Iowa a few minutes after takeoff on a flight from Mason City to Moorehead, Minnesota. Holly had chartered the plane for his band to fly between tour dates during the Winter Dance Party Tour. However, Richardson, who had a cold, talked Holly’s band member Waylon Jennings out of his seat, and Ritchie Valens won a coin toss for another seat on the plane. Holly had just scored a No. 1 hit, “That’ll Be the Day,” with his band, the Crickets.

(With thanks to History.com)

BILLY CRYSTAL REMINISCES ON HOSTING OSCAR FOR THE FIRST TIME

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:38:09 +0000

Having been a long-suffering fan of the Los Angeles Clippers, I appreciate that Billy Crystal threw his hat into the ring and supported this hapless team over the years. But it’s a new season in NBA land, and the Clippers are looking good and even though Eddie Murphy or director Brett Ratner are nowhere to be seen, the Oscars will be just fine with Crystal back on board.

Can you remember any Oscar host who delivered better monologues than Crystal? Anne Hathaway and James Franco? David Letterman? This year’s Oscars take place on February 26th, and here’s a clip of Crystal reminiscing about his first go-round as an Oscar host, an evening which went well thanks to Warren Beatty and Jack Nicholson:

Crystal also talks about his lifelong love for the Western Shane, which starred his City Slickers compadre Jack Palance:

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‘I JUST WANT MY PANTS BACK’ STARS SHOW LOVE FOR BROOKLYN

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:56:59 +0000

Based on David J. Rosen’s novel, I Just Want My Pants Back centers on the misadventures of a group of post college buddies who are living and loving in Brooklyn.

Peter Vack is Jason Strider, a dude who’s open to one night stands but is even more open to becoming a great music journalist (although it’s a long road before Jason ever gets there). Kim Shaw co-stars as Jason’s best friend Tina, and during the TCA press tour I sarcastically asked the pair if Brooklyn is really a cool spot. It’s an obviously ignorant comment from an Angeleno, but it was purely in jest.

Listen to Vack and Shaw expound on the wonders of Brooklyn:

The freshman series, executive produced by filmmaker Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity, Jumper) premieres tonight on MTV with back to back episodes starting at 11 pm et/pt.

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Elizabeth Banks Thrilled To Join The ‘Man On A Ledge’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:00:07 +0000

Currently in theaters, MAN ON A LEDGE is a multi-tiered caper drama that involves so much more than its simple title indicates. Sure, there IS a man on a ledge but we quickly find out it’s just a diversion for several other events. Directed by ASGER LETH from a script by PABLO F. FENJVES, the cast includes SAM WORTHINGTON, ELIZABETH BANKS, JAIMIE BELL and ANTHONY MACKIE.

BANKS plays a police negotiator called in (by request, no less) to try and get the seemingly suicidal titular character back in the building. Shot on location, much of her action actually took place on a high-rise ledge many stories in the air. During our recent interview, she talked about her first experience doing wire-work. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

MAN ON A LEDGE is in theaters now

New To Blu: Mid-Century Satire Doesn’t Get Better Than ‘The Apartment’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:00:33 +0000

Available for the first time this week on Blu-ray, THE APARTMENT is one of the finest comedy/dramas to ever win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Co-written (with I.A.L. DIAMOND) and directed by BILLY WILDER, this follow-up to SOME LIKE IT HOT proved to be a major critical and commercial success. A tale of ambition and adultery set against the backdrop of mid-century Madison Avenue, the film starred JACK LEMMON, SHIRLEY MacLAINE, FRED McMURRAY, RAY WALSTON, JACK KRUSCHEN , DAVID WHITE and EDIE ADAMS. Included on the Blu-ray are an audio commentary by film historian and producer BRUCE BLOCK as well as a featurettes: “INSIDE THE APARTMENT” and “MAGIC TIME-THE ART OF JACK LEMMON”

During one of our many interviews with JACK LEMMON, he talked about this being one of WILDER’S ‘peak’ films and explained the origin of the term “magic time.” (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

And, from the same interview, we get the impression he might not have been so happy with the inclusion of featurettes. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE APARTMENT is available on Blu-ray now

Daniel Radcliffe Keeps It All In The Family With ‘The Woman In Black’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:21 +0000

Opening in theaters tomorrow, THE WOMAN IN BLACK marks a departure for HARRY POTTER star DANEL RADCLIFFE in that he not only makes the move to grown-up roles but plays a father as well. Based on a novel by SUSAN HILL and directed by JAMES WATKINS, the story has RADCLIFFE playing a young dad who travels to a remote village where the ghost of a scorned woman is wreaking havoc on the locals. Also in the cast are SOPHIE STUCKEY, JESSICA RAINE, ROGER ALLAIN, LUCY MAY BARKER and MISHA HANDLEY.

Young HANDLEY won the role of RADCLIFFE’S son after several child actors were unsuccessfully auditioned and RADCLIFFE had a casting brainstorm he presented to WATKINS. During our recent interview, the HARRY POTTER star confessed to indulging in a bit of nepotism. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE WOMAN IN BLACK opens in theaters tomorrow

SNEAK PEEK: ‘ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER’ WILL “BLOW YOUR MIND”

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:19:14 +0000

Coming out June 22nd, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is directed by Timur Bekmambetov, the filmmaker behind the visually arresting 2008 action film Wanted. Produced by Tim Burton, the movie featuring Benjamin Walker as Lincoln, certainly impressed co-star Anthony Mackie.

During the press junket for Man on a Ledge, Mackie talked about William H. Johnson, the character he plays in Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter:

Mackie also saw a cut of the film, and he explains why the picture’s special effects reminded him of The Matrix:

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DWAYNE JOHNSON TO SHOOT ‘FAST & THE FURIOUS’ SEQUEL IN…GERMANY?

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:56:27 +0000

Although he scored his biggest hit to date thanks to last summer’s Fast Five, Dwayne Johnson is still dedicated to making family friendly features, as Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, co-starring Vanessa Hudgens and Josh Hutcherson, opens February 10th.

But since I’ve never seen Race to Witch Mountain, Tooth Fairy, or The Game Plan, there’s a huge shot Journey 2: The Mysterious Island will also pass me by. My solo concern is simply a little info on The Fast and the Furious 6, which will most likely have Luke Hobbs (Johnson) tracking down Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and Brian O’Conner.

“That series was a lot of fun for me personally,” says Johnson who says the sequel may shoot in Germany. “Just the notion of taking one of the biggest action stars in the world and hunting him down, I enjoyed that. We’re going to start shooting mid-May.”

Click on the media bar to hear Johnson talk about the possibility of shooting back-to-back Fast and the Furious sequels:

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John Krasinski’s ‘Big Miracle’ Would Involve Getting A Twitter Account

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:00:58 +0000

Opening in theaters this week, BIG MIRACLE is a family friendly adventure story about the efforts of a small Alaskan town to save a family of gray whales trapped beneath rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Directed by KEN KWAPIS and inspired by real events, the cast features DREW BARRYMORE, JOHN KRASINSKI, KRISTEN BELL, DERMOT MULRONEY, TED DANSON, VINESSA SHAW, STEPHEN ROOT and TIM BLAKE NELSON.

Shooting on location in a small town in Alaska allowed for plenty of opportunity in which the stars could spend time together and get to know each other. For JOHN KRASINSKI, that meant being exposed for not being tech savvy, a trait that even his friends have chided him for. Next up for KRASINSKI: a Twitter account. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

BIG MIRACLE opens in theaters Friday

‘Magic Mike’ Star Channing Tatum Sez Stripping Is Such An Ugly Word

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:00:01 +0000

In theaters later this year, the much buzzed-about MAGIC MIKE is a quasi-biopic loosely based on the real-life exploits of star CHANNING TATUM before he hit the big-time as an actor and tells the story of a young male stripper mentored to the top of the biz by more experienced colleagues. Directed by STEVEN SODERBERGH from a script by REID CARLTON, the extremely photogenic cast also includes ALEX PETTYFER, MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY, OLIVIA MUNN, MATT BOMER and JOE MANANIELLO.

We sat down with TATUM a few days ago to talk about his upcoming romantic drama THE VOW and he took a little time to talk about MAGIC MIKE. We can’t help but think there may be a few people not in agreement with his opinion of male strippers.(CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

MAGIC MIKE opens in theaters 6/29

THE VOW opens in theaters 2/10

New To Blu: Justin Timberlake Embraces His Inner Action-Hero With ‘In Time’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:00:22 +0000

Available on DVD and Blu-ray, IN TIME is a sci-fi action adventure set in a future where time is literally money and the rich live forever while the poor are programmed to expire at the age of 25. When a blue-collar worker suddenly finds himself rolling in enough time to live for centuries, he’s accused of murder and forced to run for his life. Written and directed by ANDREW NICCOL, the photogenic young cast includes JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, AMANDA SEYFRIED, OLIVIA WILDE, MATT BOMER, ALEX PETTYFER, VINCENT KARTHEISER and CILLIAN MURPHY.

As the falsely accused protagonist, TIMBERLAKE does more than his fair share of running, jumping and stunt work. And he appears to be having a blast doing it. During an interview we did with him last year, he admitted that it was like living out a childhood dream. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

IN TIME is available on DVD and Blu-ray now

Kristen Bell Tips Her Hat To A Couple Of Top-Notch TV Series

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:00:53 +0000

Soon to be seen as an ambitious television reporter in the upcoming family drama BIG MIRACLE, actress KRISTEN BELL is no stranger to real-life television audiences. Currently starring in SHOWTIME’s HOUSE OF LIES, she’s probably best known for her eponymous role in the popular VERONICA MARS series and won a true cult following with her charming portrayal of a teen private eye. More cult-ish adoration followed with her appearance in the sci-fi series HEREOS and she gained underground attention as the titular voice on the mega-popular teen soap GOSSIP GIRL. After all that, a more mature audience demographic followed with her being cast in a couple episodes of the raucous and raunchy DAVID MILCH series for HBO, DEADWOOD.

We spoke with BELL recently about her career and she took the chance to acknowledge a couple of the shows that have profoundly affected her. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

BIG MIRACLE opens in theaters Friday

HOUSE OF LIES airs on Showtime

CARSON DALY SEES ‘THE VOICE’ AS “BIGGER, BETTER” FOR SEASON TWO

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:00:54 +0000

The second season of The Voice, hosted by Carson Daly and featuring returning judges Blake Shelton, Christina Aguilera, and Cee-Lo, premieres Sunday night right after the Super Bowl. By giving the show the post Super Bowl slot, the NBC competition series should have increased momentum and during the TCAs Daly simply said “it’s really good this year.”

Although I will miss pop culture expert Alison Haislip as the social media correspondent (she’s been replaced by singer/actress Christina Milian), The Voice should draw even a deeper level of talent this year thanks to its first season success. Click on the media bar and listen to Daly give a brief preview of The Voice:

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DERMOT MULRONEY SHOOTS THREE MOVIES IN ALASKA - SANS HANDWARMERS

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:00:18 +0000

Based on the book Freeing the Whales by Tom Rose, Big Miracle centers on a volunteer (Drew Barrymore) who teams up with a newsman (John Krasinski) to rescue a family of majestic gray whales trapped in the Arctic Circle.

During interviews for his latest film The Grey, actor Dermot Mulroney briefly talked about working on Big Miracle (he plays Colonel Scott Boyer in the feature), and he had a rather interesting thing to say about the production’s crews budget on handwarmers.

Click on the media bar and listen to Dermot Mulroney talk about Big Miracle’s handwarmers budget (The Grey co-star Dallas Roberts can also be heard in the clip):

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‘Glee’ Stars Brace For Michael Jackson Tribute Show

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:00:12 +0000

Tonight’s MICHAEL JACKSON tribute episode of the hit Fox musical comedy GLEE is apparently as highly anticipate by the show’s cast as it is by its legion of fans. With a play list of ten songs from the MICHAEL JACKSON catalog, everybody’s on board to take part in what promises to be a real crowd pleaser. At a recent press event to promote the show, newcomer GRANT GUSTIN admitted that, as a little kid he actually wanted to BE MICHAEL JACKSON (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

CORY MONTEITH tells us that his first memory of The King Of Pop was a late night viewing of the ground-breaking THRILLER music video. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

And, CHRIS COLFER confessed that, during the filming of the show, he attempted to sound like MICHAEL but didn’t quite achieve the desired effect. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

The GLEE tribute to MICHAEL JACKSON airs tonight on Fox-TV

‘The Grey’ Makes The Point That It’s Not Nice To Play With Mother Nature

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:00:56 +0000

Currently in theaters (and at the top of the box office chart), THE GREY is a story of survival that centers on a group of men who make it through a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness only to find that the crash was the easy part and, now, their lives are at the mercy of a very large and hungry pack of wolves. Co-written and directed by JOE CARNAHAN, the film stars LIAM NEESON, DERMOT MULRONEY, FRANK GRILLO, DALLAS ROBERTS, NONSO ANOZIE and JAMES BADGE DALE.

At the recent press event to promote the movie, CARNAHAN took time to address concerns that the story takes an anti-animal stance by responding that all of Mother Nature’s occupants just do what they do. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE GREY is in theaters now

New To Blu: Ryan Gosling Is An Action Anti-Hero In ‘Drive’

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:00:07 +0000

Arriving on DVD and Blu-ray today, DRIVE is a moody thriller that centers on a Hollywood stunt driver who makes the mistake of agreeing to drive a getaway car for his neighbor’s ex-con husband. When the job goes wrong, he’s tagged as a target and forced to go on a run for his life. Directed by NICOLAS WINDING REFN, the cast includes RYAN GOSLING, CHRISTINA HENDRICKS, RON PERLMAN, BRYAN CRANSTON, CAREY MULLIGAN and ALBERT BROOKS (in a performance that should have Oscar nominated).

Considered “leading man” material since his role in THE NOTEBOOK, GOSLING tends to dismiss any talk of his sex-symbol status. During our interview at the tine of the film’s original release, he joked about his work as a character actor. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

DRIVE arrives on DVD and Blu-ray today

Author Elmore Leonard Very Happy To See ‘Justified’ In Such Good Hands

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:00:20 +0000

Currently in its third season on FX, JUSTIFIED is the faithful depiction of characters created by iconic crime-fiction author ELMORE LEONARD for his popular series of stories centered on U. S. Marshall Raylan Givens, a Stetson-wearing, fast-drawing, no-nonsense lawman who has no trouble at all shooting to kill. As played by TIMOTHY OLYPHANT, the TV version of Raylan is an anti-hero as likeable as he is cool. At the recent press conference to promote the new season, LEONARD talked about being one of the producers of the series and how very happy he is with the way the writers are bringing his work to the screen. Turning his Raylan Givens stories into a series seems perfectly JUSTIFIED. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JUSTIFIED airs tonight on FX

‘GLEE’S’ NAYA RIVERA REMEMBERS TRIP TO NEVERLAND RANCH

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:55 +0000

This week’s episode of Glee has the cast performing songs from Michael Jackson’s extensive library. For Naya Rivera, shooting the “Michael” episode evoked memories of her childhood love for the late singer.

“I grew up with Michael Jackson,” says Rivera, who actually visited Neverland Ranch. “One of my first demo reels, when I was like five, was set to Jam; so I knew who he was, and my parents were huge fans, and they always played his music. So I was very familiar with Michael, watched all of his videos, loved all of them, so I couldn’t be happier and more proud to do his iconic songs.”

Click on the media bar and listen to Rivera talk about her time on Neverland Ranch:

Glee, which features renditions of the Jackson hits “Smooth Criminal,” “Bad,” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin,’” airs Tuesday evening (Fox, 8 pm et/pt).

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RYAN REYNOLDS PLAYS THE CIA GAME WITH DENZEL WASHINGTON IN ‘SAFE HOUSE’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:00:50 +0000

After striking out last year on Green Lantern and The Change-Up, Ryan Reynolds tries to usher in the year with a bit of box-office success with Safe House. The good news is the picture pairs him up with Denzel Washington, who plays a dangerous spy who is being protected by a wet behind his ears CIA agent (Reynolds). The action film also stars Vera Farmiga, Ruben Blades, Brendan Gleeson, and Sam Shepard.

Click on the media bar to hear Reynolds talk about playing Matt Weston in Safe House:

Safe House opens February 10th.

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‘Magic Mike’ Promises To Bring An All-Star Sausage-Fest To The Big Screen

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:45 +0000

Coming to theaters later this year, MAGIC MIKE tells the story of a young male stripper mentored to the top of the biz by more experienced colleagues. Directed by STEVEN SODERBERGH from a script by REID CARLTON, the story is loosely based on the real-life exploits of star CHANNING TATUM before he hit the big-time as an actor. Also in the cast are ALEX PETTYFER, MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY, MATT BOMER and JOE MANANIELLO, making this what appears to be the “beefcake” movie of the year.

We sat down with TATUM a few days ago to talk about his upcoming romantic drama THE VOW and he took a little time to fill us in on the details behind MAGIC MIKE. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

MAGIC MIKE opens in theaters 6/29

THE VOW opens in theaters 2/10

New To Blu: Shia LaBeouf Goes For Laughs In ‘Transformers 3′

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:00:39 +0000

When TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON arrives on DVD and Blu-ray tomorrow, it will be SHIA LaBEOUF’S third time heading the cast in the hugely popular franchise based on a vintage line of toys created by the Hasbro Company in the 1980s. This time around, planet Earth is collateral damage as the Autobots battle the Decepticons in a race to reach a Cybertronian spacecraft hidden on the Moon. Directed by MICHAEL BAY from a script by EHREN KRUGER, the cast also includes ROSIE HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY, TYRESE GIBSON, JOSH DUHAMEL, PATRICK DEMPSEY, KEN JEONG, JOHN MALKOVICH and FRANCIS McDORMAND.

Working with the TRANSFORMERS is not all just running-and-jumping action scenes. During the press conference to promote the original release of the film, LaBEOUF talked about how shooting the movie digitally allowed for a great deal of improv humor. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON will be available on DVD and Blu-ray tomorrow

It All Hits The Fan(s) With Tonight’s 100th Episode Of ‘Gossip Girl’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:00:05 +0000

Airing tonight on THE CW, the much anticipated 100th episode of the cult hit series GOSSIP GIRL promises to answer some questions and open the door to all new issues as the story moves on to bigger problems for Manhattan’s privileged set. A royal wedding, the return of a brilliant villain and the destruction of love triangles that beget new love triangles are just a few of the things fans can expect. But, according to producer JOSH SAFRAN, nobody has come close to guessing the shocking ending of the episode.

Not too long ago, we spoke to series star LEIGHTON MEESTER about her character Blair Waldorf and she talked about trying to find something likable in a role so dissimilar from herself. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

The 100th episode of GOSSIP GIRL airs tonight on THE CW

‘Glee’ Rocks The Michael Jackson Songbook This Week (Finally!)

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:00:22 +0000

Airing tomorrow night on Fox-TV, the long-awaited, highly-anticipated MICHAEL JACKSON tribute show that seems like it’s been in the works forever. Ten classic songs from the late “king of pop” backlist will serve to highlight the episode that features a face-off between Sebastian and Blaine as well as more suspense over Rachel’s acceptance of Finn’s marriage proposal.

CHRIS COLFER (who plays the out-and-proud Kurt Hummel on the show) takes on MJ’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somthin’” while dressed in a very provocative black leather jumpsuit/onesie. During interviews to promote this very special episode, the Golden Globe Award-winning actor described the outfit as ‘very interesting’ (to say the least). (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

GLEE airs tomorrow night on Fox-TV

Miss McAdams Regrets She’s Unable To Attend The SAG’s Today

Hollywood Outbreak — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:12:13 +0000

As an integral member of the ensemble cast that got WOODY ALLEN’S delightful romantic bon-bon, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, nominated for Screen Actor’s Guild Award attention, RACHEL McADAMS had hoped to be in attendance with co-stars at this evening’s televised ceremony. Alas, she’s on the road tub-thumping THE VOW, her upcoming tear-jerker about an amnesiac woman struggling to recover the memory of a man who loves her, and will be on the right coast while the awards ceremony is on the left.

We spoke with McADAMS a couple of days ago and she expressed regret but wanted it known how supportive she is of her cast mates and pal WOODY ALLEN. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

The 18th ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS CEREMONY airs tonight on TNT

THE VOW opens in theaters 2/10

‘THE GREY’ WOLFS DOWN BOX OFFICE RIVALS WITH $20 MILLION OPENING

Hollywood Outbreak — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:41:34 +0000

Apparently moviegoers have a thing for wolves and the Arctic wilderness as The Grey, headlined by Liam Neeson, debuted at the #1 spot at the box office with $20 million. The Katherine Heigl comedy One for the Money had a decent opening weekend, as it came in at #3 and took in $11.8 million, with Underworld: Awakening finishing second ($12.5 million). Unfortunately, Man on a Ledge’s numbers were disappointing, as it placed #5 with $8.3 million. Here’s the top 10:

1. The Grey - $20 million

2. Underworld: Awakening - $12.5 million

3. One for the Money - $11.8 million

4. Red Tails - $10.4 million

5. Man on a Ledge - $8.3 million

6. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - $7.14 million

7. The Descendants - $6.55 million

8. Contraband - $6.5 million

9. Beauty and the Beast 3D - $5.34 million

10. Haywire - $4 million

Click on the media bar and listen to Liam Neeson talk about the cold showers he endured in preparation for The Grey:

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‘Luck’ Marks The Return Of David Milch To HBO

Hollywood Outbreak — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 17:53:18 +0000

After almost 20 years of reviewing (and enjoying) HBO programming, HBO gatekeeper Tobe Becker has deemed it fiscally irresponsible to further provide HOLLYWOOD OUTBREAK with advance review screeners. So, with that in mind, we wish the network the best of LUCK with its new DAVID MILCH show and hope that, despite the lukewarm reviews they’re getting, the new series is less JOHN FROM CINCINNATI and more DEADWOOD. Created by MILCH, the LUCK pilot was directed by MICHAEL MANN and stars DUSTIN HOFFMAN, NICK NOLTE, DENNIS FARINA, JOHN ORTIZ and RICHARD KIND. As with other MILCH projects, there were on-the-set stories that appeared during filming and, at the recent Television Critics Association press event to promote the show, MICHAEL MANN responded to questions regarding the rumor that he had MILCH banned from the set while the show was in production. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

In the interest of fiscal responsibility, we’ve suspended our HBO account but wish the new series well and look forward to it’s DVD release in the (very) near future.

RACHEL MCADAMS, CHANNING TATUM INSPIRED BY ‘THE VOW’S’ LOVE LESSONS

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:00:25 +0000

The Vow features Channing Tatum as a guy who win back his wife’s (Rachel McAdams) love after a tragic car accident left her with memory loss. Directed by Grey Gardens filmmaker Michael Sucsy, the picture should draw women (and their respective partners) into theaters come Valentine’s Day Weekend.

During today’s press junket for The Vow, Tatum and McAdams were asked if they learned anything about love from shooting The Vow. Click on the media bar to listen to the actors give their thoughts on love:

The Vow also stars Scott Speedman and Jessica Lange (who worked with Sucsy on Grey Gardens).

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‘THE GREY’ ACTOR LIAM NEESON SEES HIMSELF AS A “SPIRITUALIST”

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:33:09 +0000

Although movie buffs who watch The Grey this weekend are primarily looking to see Liam Neeson take on a pack of wolves, the feature does contain a few themes to chew on. John Ottoway (Neeson) is a sharpshooter tasked with keeping animals away from attacking oil workers, but when their plane crashing in the Alaskan tundra, they find themselves at the mercy of Mother Nature.

Ottoway has experienced a deep sense of loss, and he eventually wonders if surviving out in the bleak and unforgiving cold is actually something worth fighting for. During the interviews for The Grey, Neeson, who described himself as a “spiritualist,” talked about the philosophical themes of the picture (he also mentions late writer/essayist Christopher Hitchens in the clip):

The Grey, co-starring Dermot Mulroney and Dallas Roberts, is now playing nationwide.

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Katherine Heigl Stops Complaining After Hearing Debbie Reynolds Horror Stories

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:00:15 +0000

Arriving in theaters today, ONE FOR THE MONEY is the highly anticipated big-screen adaptation of mystery writer JANET EVANOVICH’S best-selling novel featuring bail bondsman-sleuth Stephanie Plum. Directed by JULIE ANNE ROBINSON, the film stars KATHERINE HEIGL, JASON O’MARA, DANIEL SUNJATA, JOHN LEGUIZANO, SHERRI SHEPHARD, DEBBIE REYNOLDS and DEBRA MONK.

Long hours of late-night location shooting proved to be a chore for HEIGL (who has a reputation for being vocal about thing that vex her) but, at a recent press conference to promote the film, she admitted that hearing movie-making horror stories from veteran performer DEBBIE REYNOLDS convinced her to stop complaining. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

ONE FOR THE MONEY opens in theaters today

Josh Hutcherson Put Body And Soul Into Booking ‘The Hunger Games’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:57 +0000

Following his appearance in the upcoming family adventure JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND, up-and-coming your actor JOSH HUTCHERSON will follow with the role of Peeta Mellark in the big-screen adaptation of SUZANNE COLLINS’ young-adult bestseller THE HUNGER GAMES. Co-written and directed by GARY ROSS, THE HUNGER GAMES cast also includes JENNIFER LAWRENCE, LIAM HEMSWORTH, ELIZABETH BANKS, WOODY HARRELSON, ALEXANDER LUDWIG and STANLEY TUCCI.

A working actor since he was 10-years-old, HUTCHERSON works steadily. But,at the recent press event for JOURNEY 2, he admitted that the role in THE HUNGER GAMES was his holy grail. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND opens in theaters 2/10

THE HUNGER GAMES is set for release 3/23

A Rough First Meeting On The Set Of ‘Man On A Ledge’ Was A Bonding Experience For Banks And Worthington

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:08 +0000

In the new thriller MAN ON A LEDGE, ELIZABETH BANKS plays a police psychologist determined to ‘talk down’ an ex-con driven to extremes to prove his innocence from a accusation of grand theft. Directed by ASGER LETH from a script by PABLO F. FENJVES, the cast includes SAM WORTHINGTON, ELIZABETH BANKS, JAIMIE BELL and ANTHONY MACKIE.

Soon to be seen in the much anticipated big-screen adaptation of the bestselling novel THE HUNGER GAMES, BANKS tells us that before rehearsals for MAN ON A LEDGE, she’d never met co-star WORTHINGTON. And, fortunately, first impressions aren’t always everything. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

MAN ON A LEDGE opens in theaters today

‘Spartacus: Vengeance’ Premieres Tonight On STARZ

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:00:20 +0000

Boldly telling the story of the world’s greatest gladiator, STARZ has opted to go where no other has with the outrageously bloody SPARTACUS: VENGEANCE. In this second season opener, a brothel bloodbath leads to the exposure of several secrets. Created for STARZ by STEVEN DeKNIGHT, the cast includes LIAM McINTYRE (brought in to replace the late ANDY WHITFIELD as Spartacus), LUCY LAWLESS, MANU BENNETT, JOHN HANNAH, PETER MENSAH and NICK TARABAY.

At the recent Television Critics Association press event to promote the new season, McINTYRE recalled the day news of WHITFIELD’S death hit the set. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

SPARTACUS: VENGEANCE premieres tonight on STARZ

ACTION THRILLER ‘THE GREY’ IS A “GREAT FILM” SAYS DIRECTOR JOE CARNAHAN

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:00:48 +0000

Filmmaker Joe Carnahan, last seen loving it when a plan comes together with The A-Team (a movie which I thought should have done better at the box-office), gets down and dirty with his latest work, The Grey. Re-teaming with Liam Neeson, who played Hannibal on The A-Team, Carnahan weaves a story of a group of men stuck in the Arctic wilderness and taking on a pack of bloodthirsty wolves.

“Anybody that loves seeing a good movie, that’s my target audience,” says Carnahan, whose previous credits include Narc and Smokin’ Aces. “I think we live in a day and age of disposable films, and I’ve certainly contributed to that crisis…I want people to go into this film seeing a great action thriller that scares the hell out of them and they get a whole slew of other things out of the movie. Anyone who wants to see a great film. That’s who I want.”

During the press junket interviews for The Grey, Carnahan was asked if The Grey is essentially the type of movies he wants to direct. Describing himself as a contrarian, Carnahan explained why, when it comes to his personal tastes, he’s all over the place:

The Grey opens Friday.

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KATHERINE HEIGL BELIEVES ‘ONE FOR THE MONEY’ IS NOT “PURELY CHICK FLICK-ISH”

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:00:21 +0000

In her new film One for the Money, Katherine Heigl is Stephanie Plum, a recovery agent assigned to track down Joe Morelli (Terra Nova’s Jason O’Mara), a guy who dumped her back in high school. The movie is based on the Janet Evanovich novel of the same name (Plum is the lead character in 18 Evanovich novels).

“The murder-mystery storyline (in this film) is kind of dark and a little edgy and gives a vibe that is not purely chick flick-ish. I’m really excited about it because it does appeal to everyone,” says Heigl during the press conference to promote the movie. “It just isn’t a girls movie. I think that we’re working hard to advertise it that everyone knows that. It’s a good time for everyone, men included.”

Click on the media bar and listen to Heigl talk about developing One for the Money as an executive producer:

One for the Money opens Friday.

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Daniel Radcliffe Haunted By The Compelling Nature Of ‘The Woman In Black’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:57 +0000

Opening in theaters early next month, THE WOMAN IN BLACK is a classic ghost story in the gothic tradition of THE OTHERS and THE HAUNTING. Directed by JAMES WATKINS from a script by JANE GOLDMAN, it features a cast that includes DANIEL RADCLIFFE, JANET McTEER, CIARAN HINDS, ROGER ALLAM and SOPHIE STUCKEY. Probably best known for playing Harry Potter in that popular Warner Brothers franchise, RADCLIFFE sat down with entertainment press recently to talk about moving on to a more mature role. According to RADCLIFFE, it was the compelling nature of the story that hooked him. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE WOMAN IN BLACK opens in theaters 2/3

Joan & Melissa Rivers Come Clean About Women In Comedy Working ‘Blue’

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:49 +0000

Back on WE for a second season of their entertaining reality series JOAN KNOWS BEST?, iconic comedienne JOAN RIVERS and her daughter MELISSA recently sat down with us at the semi-annual Television Critics Association press event in Pasadena. A true show-biz legend, JOAN RIVERS has, pretty much, seen and done it all when it comes to the world of entertainment. No shrinking violet when performing on stage, RIVERS has been known to shock audiences with some of her salty material. Given the resurgence of female comics on television (CHELSEA HANDLER, WHITNEY CUMMINGS, SARAH SILVERMAN spring to mind), we asked JOAN & MELISSA for their thoughts on comedy today.

JOAN & MELISSA: JOAN KNOWS BEST? airs Tuesday nights on WE

New To Blu: Laughter Cures In ‘50/50′

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:00:06 +0000

Released to DVD and Blu-ray this week, 50/50 is loosely inspired by actual events and tells the story of a young man whose world gets turned upside down when he’s diagnosed with a possibly fatal form of cancer. Forced to face his own mortality, he discovers who his real friends are. Directed by JONATHAN LEVINE from a script by WILL REISER (who is, in fact, the real-life subject of the film), the cast includes JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT, SETH ROGEN, ANNA KENDRICK, BRYCE DALLAS HOWARD and ANJELICA HUSTON.
A former child actor who first gained prominence on the hit TV sitcom 3RD ROCK FROM THE SUN, GORDON-LEVITT managed to avoid the pitfalls young performers often go through when transitioning to adult roles. During our recent interview he credited a strong sense of focus for staying on track. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

50/50 is available on DVD and Blu-ray now

‘Hunger Games’ Star Elizabeth Banks Won’t Take The Rap If Movie Disappoints

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:00:37 +0000

Opening in theaters this weekend, MAN ON A LEDGE centers on an ex-con threatening to jump from a Manhattan high-rise while a female police psychologist attempts to talk him down. Directed by ASGER LETH from a script by PABLO F. FENJVES, the cast includes SAM WORTHINGTON, ELIZABETH BANKS, JAIMIE BELL and ANTHONY MACKIE.

Next up for BANKS, she’ll be going from “out on a ledge” to “out on a limb” when the big-screen adaptation of SUZANNE COLLINS’ bestselling young adult series THE HUNGER GAMES opens in theaters in March. As we reported earlier this week, there’s been some on-line controversy by hard-core fans of the books over some of the casting in the films. When we sat down with BANKS last week, she addressed the dust-up directly. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

MAN ON A LEDGE opens in theaters tomorrow

THE HUNGER GAMES opens in theaters 3/23

When It Comes To Horror, Kate Beckinsale Buys Into The Hype

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:00:56 +0000

Currently in theaters and at the top of the box office charts, UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING is the fourth film in the popular franchise centering on a futuristic supernatural world where vampires and werewolves roam the planet. Co-directed by MANS MARLIND and BJORN STEIN, the cast includes KATE BECKINSALE, STEPHEN REA, MICHAEL EALY, THEO JAMES, INDIA EISLEY and CHARLES DANCE.

The star of all four film in the UNDERWORLD franchise, BECKINSALE is strangely no fan of the genre. During our recent interview, she admitted that “horror” films aren’t really her thing. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING is in theaters now

Sandra Bullock Did Her Homework For Role In ‘Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:00:25 +0000

If there was one surprise at yesterday’s Academy Award nominations ceremony, it was the inclusion of EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE in the Best Picture category. Blessed with good performances but thought by many to be heavy-handed and overly long, it appears to be the one dark horse of the nine films named. Directed by three-time Oscar-nominee ROGER DALDRY, the cast includes Oscar-winners TOM HANKS and SANDRA BULLOCK along with MAX VON SYDOW, VIOLA DAVIS, JOHN GOODMAN, JEFFREY WRIGHT, ZOE CALDWELL and newcomer THOMAS HORN.

At a press conference to promote the film, BULLOCK was very sincere in describing the research that went into her role as a mom widowed by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE is in theaters now

Katharine McPhee Reveals Her Spielberg Connection And Opens Up About Her Audition For ‘Smash’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:55 +0000

NBC is taking a page from the GLEE playbook by introducing a new series centered on the world of Broadway musical theater. Executive-produced by STEVEN SPIELBERG, SMASH follows the conception and theatrical mounting of a musical production based on the life of screen legend MARILYN MONROE. DEBRA MESSING and ANGELICA HUSTON headline a cast that also includes AMERICAN IDOL finalist KATHARINE McPHEE and WICKED star MEGAN HILTY.

Both McPHEE and HILTY are revelations in roles that fit like a glove and lend a real authenticity to their original musical material. Known primarily as a recording artist, McPHEE sat down with us recently at the Television Critics Association press event to talk about her STEVEN SPIELBERG ’connection’ and how this job came about.

SMASH makes its series debut on NBC-TV 2/6

Fox-TV Superstar Kiefer Sutherland Marks Small-Screen Return With ‘Touch’

Hollywood Outbreak — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:00:10 +0000

Making its series debut tonight on Fox-TV, TOUCH is a new scripted drama centering on a widowed single father struggling to connect with his emotionally challenged 11-year-old son. Created by TIM KRING (CROSSING JORDAN), the cast includes KIEFER SUTHERLAND, DAVID MAZOUZ and GUGU MBATHA-RAW.

Probably best known to television fans for his portrayal of Jack Bauer on the hit action adventure 24, SUTHERLAND was working on Broadway when approached to do TOUCH and was, at first, reluctant. He sat down with us a couple of weeks ago at the Television Critics Association press event in Pasadena and explained his reasons for coming back to series television.

TOUCH airs tonight on Fox-TV

‘The Celebrity Apprentice’ Brings Out The Best In Odd-Ball Pairings

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:00:05 +0000

Set to return to NBC next month, the latest season of THE CELEBRITY APPRENTICE has host DONALD TRUMP bringing together his most eclectic cast yet. The famous (and not-so-famous) roster of talent includes PENN JILLETTE, ADAM COROLLA, CLAY AIKEN, DEBBIE GIBSON, DEE SNIDER, ARSENIO HALL, ROSS MATTHEWS, TIA CARRERA and LOU FERRIGNO (to name just a few).

At the recent press event for The Television Critics Association, we sat down with JILLETTE and COROLLA and, while we have no idea how they got along during the filming of the show, their riff onfame and fatherhood was pretty entertaining. (So entertaining, in fact, we never even noticed how much JILLETTE was out of the frame)

THE CELEBRITY APPRENTICE season premiere airs on NBC-TV 2/19

For Kristen Bell, Shooting In Alaska Meant Pizza, Poker And Polar Wildlife

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:00:47 +0000

Opening in theaters next month, BIG MIRACLE is a family friendly adventure story about the efforts of a small Alaskan town to save a family of gray whales trapped beneath rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Directed by KEN KWAPIS and inspired by real events, the cast features DREW BARRYMORE, JOHN KRASINSKI, KRISTEN BELL, DERMOT MULRONEY, TED DANSON, VINESSA SHAW, STEPHEN ROOT and TIM BLAKE NELSON.

Shot on location in Alaska, the film was a real-life adventure for the cast and crew who faced icy temperatures many weren’t used to. During our recent interview with KRISTEN BELL, she talked about hanging out with fellow cast mates and day trips on their off-time. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

BIG MIRACLE opens in theaters 2/3

‘Hunger Games’ Star Josh Hutcherson Not Worried About Negative Reactions

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:00:14 +0000

Soon to be seen reprising his role as Sean Anderson in JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND, JOSH HUTCHERSON is definitely a young actor on the rise. Tagged to play Peeta Mellark in the big-screen adaptation of SUZANNE COLLINS’ young-adult bestseller THE HUNGER GAMES, HUTCHERSON is poised to be the “next big thing” when it comes to movie franchises. Co-written and directed by GARY ROSS, THE HUNGER GAMES cast also includes JENNIFER LAWRENCE, LIAM HEMSWORTH, ELIZABETH BANKS, WOODY HARRELSON, ALEXANDER LUDWIG and STANLEY TUCCI.

A sci-fi adventure with an avid fan base, the book’s avid fan base was awash in controversy when some readers voiced concern over the casting of the film. At the recent press event for JOURNEY 2, HUTCHERSON talked about the issue and confessed that he wasn’t too concerned. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND opens in theaters 2/10

THE HUNGER GAMES is slated for release 3/23

And The Race Is On!…Oscar Noms Announced

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:49 +0000

At this morning’s nomination ceremony, producer BRIAN GRAZER talked to us about stepping in to helm the big show and calling pal BILLY CRYSTAL to host.(CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

The 84th ACADEMY AWARDS will air 2/26 on ABC

A complete list of Academy Award nominees may be found here:

http://oscar.go.com/

‘It’s A Brad, Brad World’ Airs New Episode Tonight

Hollywood Outbreak — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:35:46 +0000

Airing tonight on Bravo, the new series IT’S A BRAD, BRAD WORLD centers on
former RACHEL ZOE assistant BRAD GORESKI as he makes his way in the world of
high fashion and styling the stars. We sat down with him a few weeks ago to talk
about the direction the series is taking and how it will concentrate more on his
business and home life than on his celebrated client list.

IT’S A BRAD, BRAD WORLD airs tonight on Bravo

SYFY’s ‘Being Human’ Scores A Hit At Comic-Con

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:29:42 +0000

Fans who missed last week’s season premiere of SYFY’s hit series BEING HUMAN can catch up tonight with back-to-back episodes repeating the premiere and
second installment. Adapted from the popular Brit series of the same name, the show stars SAM WITWER, MEAGHAN RATH and SAM HUNTINGTON as a vampire, ghost and werewolf who set up housekeeping while trying to cope with their secret lives.
We sat down with the three stars at the recent TCA press event in Pasadena and they talked about meeting fans at last summer’s San Diego Comic-Con. (CLICK ON
THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

Two episodes of BEING HUMAN air tonight on SYFY

A “SHOCKED” SARAH SHAHI PREVIEWS SEASON TWO OF ‘FAIRLY LEGAL’

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:00:11 +0000

During the Television Critics Association Press Tour, actress Sarah Shahi (who I remember from the woefully ignored NBC series Life) was rather frank about her thoughts on a possible season two of Fairly Legal. “It was a shock,” says Shahi on the season two renewal of the USA series.. “When we did the show last year, I never thought about the reaction or what we would get from them or the final outcome, I was pretty certain we were going to get canceled.”

But the show wasn’t canceled, as season two premieres March 16th (USA, 9 pm et/pt) with actor Ryan Johnson joining the show as a lawyer and possible love interest for Kate Reed (Shahi). Click on the media bar to hear Shahi give her thoughts on the upcoming season of Fairly Legal:

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LIAM NEESON’S ACTING ROAD PAVED BY FORKLIFT TRUCK DRIVER

Hollywood Outbreak — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:00:49 +0000

Forget acting school or years of training at a university - sometimes a co-worker or friend can light the road to our future. Liam Neeson, whose film The Grey opens Friday, was a 20-year-old forklift truck driver at a Guinness factory when he received a piece of advice that would change his life’s direction. It’s a pretty cool story from Neeson, a bit reminiscent of the Matt Damon/Ben Affleck dynamic in Good Will Hunting.

Click on the media bar to hear Mr. Neeson recount his quick but profound exchange with a fellow truck driver:

The Grey, co-starring former Rubicon stars James Badge Dale and Dallas Roberts, reunites Neeson with The A-Team filmmaker Joe Carnahan.

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UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING TAKES BOX OFFICE THRONE WITH $25.4 MILLION

Hollywood Outbreak — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:53:59 +0000

Underworld: Awakening was the #1 film over the weekend with a $25.4 million debut. The George Lucas produced film Red Tails opened at #2 with $19.1 million. Unfortunately, fellow newcomer Haywire had a dismal weekend, making just $9 million. Here’s the top 10:

1. Underworld: Awakening - $25.4 million

2. Red Tails - $19.1 million

3. Contraband - $12.2 million

4. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - $10.54 million

5. Haywire - $9 million

6. Beauty & The Beast - $8.56 million

7. Joyful Noise - $6.07 million

8. Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol - $5.54 million

9. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows - $4.8 million

10. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo - $3.75 million

* Kate Beckinsale talks about the premise behind Underworld: Awakening:

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KIEFER SUTHERLAND WELCOMES A RETURN TO TELEVISION WITH ‘TOUCH’

Hollywood Outbreak — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:00:51 +0000

After an eight season run on 24, Kiefer Sutherland could have traveled to a remote island, sip boat drinks, grow a beard, and just plain disappear for several years. However, the lure of television drew the diligent actor back in, and a special preview of his new series Touch airs Wednesday, January 25th (Fox, 9 pm et/pt).

Will Touch draw a majority of the Sutherland fans who are still stuck on Jack Bauer, or will the actor gain a new set of viewers who love watching inspiring dramas? Either way, it’s a gutsy move for Sutherland to immediately come back to television with an entirely different concept from 24. And even if Touch doesn’t “touch” people, the long awaited 24 feature starts shooting at the end of April/early May.

Click on the media bar and listen to Sutherland discuss his enthusiasm over Touch:

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GINA CARANO GETS “MOSSAD, SECRET SERVICE” TRAINING FOR ‘HAYWIRE’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:00:16 +0000

She may be an experienced MMA fighter, but Gina Carano still underwent rigorous training to prepare for her role as a betrayed operative in Haywire. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a virtual showcase for Carano, whose physical prowess is put through the limits in the picture. During the story, Carano pulls off very tough fight scenes with co-stars Ewan McGregor, Channing Tatum, and Michael Fassbender (the Fassbender sequence, which has the actors fighting like cats and dogs in a hotel room, is particularly brutal).

At the Haywire press conference, Carano talked about the extensive training she went through to play her character:

Haywire, which also stars Michael Douglas and Antonio Banderas, is now playing.

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‘Red Tails’ Provided A Learning Experience For Star Cuba Gooding Jr.

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:00:48 +0000

Opening in theaters today, RED TAILS tells the story of the World War II African-American fighter pilots known as The Tuskegee Airmen. Segregated from white units and subjected to bigotry from the highest to lowest levels, this group of courageous soldiers excelled at their jobs against all odds and became heroes to the armed services. Produced by GEORGE LUCAS and directed by ANTHONY HEMINGWAY, RED TAILS isn’t up to the level of the 1995 HBO film titled THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN but it certainly does satisfy the 13-year-old-boy in us that remembers action-packed Saturday afternoon matinees.

At the press conference to promote the film, CUBA GOODING JR. (who also starred in the ‘95 HBO production) talked about how doing these films was a learning experience. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

RED TAILS opens in theaters today

Tivo Alert: George Lucas Sits Down With Oprah This Weekend

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:00:49 +0000

Set to air Sunday on OWN, OPRAH’S NEXT CHAPTER will feature an in-depth interview with STAR WARS creator GEORGE LUCAS. Making the trek to Skywalker Ranch (a.k.a. the house that STAR WARS built) in Northern California, OPRAH gets LUCAS to open up about the spirituality behind “the Force”, the near-death car accident that changed his life and the decision that made him a billionaire. Also included are interviews with CUBA GOODING JR. and TERRENCE HOWARD, the stars of LUCAS’ latest film RED TAILS.

OPRAH’S NEXT CHAPTER airs Sunday on OWN

Michael Ealy Hits The Big Screen In ‘Underworld: Awakening”

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:00:04 +0000

Opening in theaters today, UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING is the fourth film in the popular franchise center on a futuristic supernatural world where vampires and werewolves roam the planet. Co-directed by MANS MARLIND and BJORN STEIN, the cast includes KATE BECKINSALE, STEPHEN REA, MICHAEL EALY, THEO JAMES, INDIA EISLEY and CHARLES DANCE.

We sat down last week with EALY and WARREN KOLE to talk about their upcoming NBC series COMMON LAW, and EALY took a moment to talk about his role in UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING.

UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING opens in theaters today

Ralph Fiennes Returns To Familiar Territory With ‘Coriolanus’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:00:09 +0000

Opening today in limited release, CORIOLANUS is the big screen adaptation of WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S tragedy about a Roman hero, banished because of his extreme politics and disdain for the city’s impoverished population, who teams with a sworn enemy to wreak revenge upon the city. Directed by and starring RALPH FIENNES, the film’s cast also includes GERARD BUTLER, LUBNA AZABAL, BRIAN COX, VANESSA REDGRAVE, JESSICA CHASTAIN and JAMES NESBITT.

Making his directorial debut with this film, FIENNES chose to use material he was familiar with and had performed on stage. During a press conference to promote the film, he talked about his reasons for taking on one of SHAKESPEARE’S finest. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

CORIOLANUS opens in limited release today

Sandra Bullock Has High Hopes For ‘Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close’

Hollywood Outbreak — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:00:41 +0000

Expanding its limited release to a much wider number of theaters, EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE centers on a precocious 11-year-old New York City boy on a quest to come to terms with the death of his father in the World Trade Center terrorist attacks of 9/11/01. Directed by three-time Oscar-nominee ROGER DALDRY, the cast includes Oscar-winners TOM HANKS and SANDRA BULLOCK along with MAX VON SYDOW, VIOLA DAVIS, JOHN GOODMAN, JEFFREY WRIGHT, ZOE CALDWELL and newcomer THOMAS HORN.

At a press conference to promote the film, BULLOCK expressed the hope that audiences will learn from the movie to take the time each day to tell someone they care about how much they mean to them. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE expands its release today

MICHEL HAZANAVICIUS PRAISES FILMMAKING “ARTIST” BILLY WILDER

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:00:21 +0000

Michel Hazanavicius has received critical acclaim for The Artist, a movie which clearly shows his love for pure cinema. Among his many accolades, Hazanavicius received a Best Director nomination for the Directors Guild of America, as he’s competing for the honor with Alexander Payne (The Descendants), Martin Scorsese (Hugo), Woody Allen (Midnight In Paris), and David Fincher (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo). The winner of the DGA award has gone on to win the Best Director Oscar 58 out of 64 times.

Hazanavicius’ favorite filmmaker is Billy Wilder, the mastermind behind Some Like It Hot, Sunset Boulevard, and Ace in the Hole. Click on the media bar and listen to Haznavicius extol the virtues of Mr. Wilder:

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Linda Gray Excited To Be Reunited With ‘Dallas’ Pals

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:09:09 +0000

One of the more exciting pilots we’ve seen this season, TNT’s DALLAS is a continuation of the iconic ’70s television series that captivated audiences with the exploits of the dynastic Ewing family and made household names of such stars as LARRY HAGMAN, LINDA GRAY and PATRICK DUFFY. At last week’s Television Critics Association press event, the three veteran actors were reunited to address questions about their participation in the new series and talk about how their characters have fared over the years.

For LINDA GRAY, the new show offers a chance to work again with old friends and she sounded especially moved by the prospect. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

DALLAS will premiere on TNT later this year

Daniel Craig Sings The Praises of Early James Bond Films

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:51 +0000

Currently in full production the 23rd James Bond film, SKYFALL, is occupying locations all over the globe. Directed by SAM MENDES from a screenplay by JOHN LOGAN, NEAL PURVIS and ROBERT WADE. the cast, once again, features DANIEL CRAIG as Brit secret agent 007 as well as RALPH FIENNES, JAVIER BARDEM, JUDI DENCH and BEN WHISHAW. During a recent interview, CRAIG talked about his long time appreciation for the character of Bond and his fondness for the early features of the ’60s. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

SKYFALL is scheduled for release 11/9/12

A Rare Find From Jerry Lewis’ Personal Archive Gets The DVD Treatment

Hollywood Outbreak — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:00:26 +0000

Coming to DVD shelves next month is a rare, seldom-seen NBC-TV adaptation of the classic Jewish family drama THE JAZZ SINGER. Probably best remembered as a big-screen vehicle for the likes of AL JOLSON (1927), DANNY THOMAS (1952) and NEIL DIAMOND (1980), this obscure 1959 television production stars JERRY LEWIS, ANNA MARIA ALBERGHETTI, MOLLY PICON, JOEY FAYE, DEL MOORE, BARRY GORDON, EDUARD FRANZ and ALAN REED. Originally aired as an episode of Lincoln Mercury Startime, this remastered and restored version may be watched in color or as a B&W kinescope.

Delightfully dreadful and a genuine piece of television history, this version of THE JAZZ SINGER is the kind of programming that is sorely missed today. At a recent press conference, LEWIS talked to television reporters about what he feels is the reason they don’t make ‘em like this anymore. (CLICK ON THE MEDIA BAR FOR AUDIO)

THE JAZZ SINGER is slated for DVD release 2/7