‘Star Wars Episode 9’ Brings in New Writer
LucasFilm has brought in a fresh set of eyes to take a shot at the as-yet-untitled Star Wars Episode IX. Jack Thorne (Wonder) has been tapped to rework the script written by director Collin Trevorrow and Derek Connolly, though there’s been no indication as to how deeply his rewrites will go. Earlier rumors had said that Episode IX was intended to be heavily focused on General Leia Organa, but with Carrie Fisher’s untimely death late last year those plans were obviously thrown into chaos. For a while, it seemed as though LucasFilm and parent company Disney were considering using a CGI Leia, similar to how they resurrected Peter Cushing and de-aged Fisher herself in Rogue One, though those plans were scrapped. It seems as though they’re attempting to find a new angle to approach the conclusion of the epic saga, and bringing in a new scribe is the best way to accomplish that goal. As of now, the film is still slated to start filming this coming January, though extensive rewrites might push back the start date. For now, you can still expect to see Episode IX in theaters in 2019.
Ian McShane Joins ‘Hellboy’ Reboot
It may not be Guillermo del Toro, but the people behind the new Hellboy reboot are doing everything they can to sell fans on the new vision for the property. David Harbour (Stranger Things) had previously been announced to star as the titular demonic hero under the direction of Neil Marshall (The Descent). Exciting announcements, to be sure, but now they’ve added even more weight by confirming that Ian McShane (Dead Wood, American Gods) will be joining the cast. McShane will co-star as Professor Trevor Bloom, the adopted father of Hellboy, a role played by the late John Hurt in the del Toro series. McShane’s addition is an intriguing get for the film, which has faced some fan backlash in the absence of del Toro. His presence is always an elevating factor in films and TV, and he brings some real acting chops to the project. Hellboy: Rise of the Blood Queen will have its work cut out for itself as it tries to win over disheartened fans, but so far, they’re making all the right moves. Filming begins next month, and while no release date has been announced, Lionsgate is reportedly eyeing a 2018 release.
(Variety)
Sundance Favorite Gets First Trailer
After delighting crowds at this year’s Sundance, the festival favorite Call Me By Your Name has released its first official trailer. The film stars Armie Hammer as an American who spends several weeks in Italy and forges a romance with an adolescent boy. The film is based on the award winning novel by author Andre Aciman and is directed by Luca Guadagnino (A Bigger Splash). The buzz out of Sundance was largely positive, with many putting it as an early favorite for Oscar and awards consideration. Its November release date certainly plays to the buzz, though only time will tell for sure. Call Me By Your Name hits theaters on November 24.
(Sony Pictures Classics)
Netflix Unveils Angelina Jolie’s New Film
Netflix continues their coup against traditional distribution models with their latest film, First They Killed My Father. Based on the memoir by Loung Ung, the Angelina Jolie film recounts the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. With strong early buzz, First They Killed My Father looks like an unflinching portrayal of the violence and brutality of the communist party who killed and enslaved the Cambodian people over a three decade period beginning in 1968. The film tells the story from a young girl’s perspective, showing us the horrors from her perspective. First They Killed My Father premieres September 15 on Netflix.
(Netflix)
