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Michael Jackson averts ranch foreclosure - Reuters

Entertainer Michael Jackson said on Sunday a foreclosure sale on his Neverland Ranch set for this week was averted after a loan on the California property was sold to Colony Capital, a large real estate investment firm.

Real-life skull worship inspires new 'Indy' film - AP

There is a legend that the ancient Maya possessed 13 crystal skulls which, when united, hold the power of saving the Earth a tale so strange and fantastic that it inspired the latest Indiana Jones movie.

Actor Farina arrested after gun found in luggage at LAX - AP

Dennis Farina has been arrested at Los Angeles International Airport after a loaded gun was found in his carry-on luggage.

Person close to talks: NBC installing Fallon on 'Late Night' - AP

Jimmy Fallon will officially be given the keys to NBC's "Late Night" franchise following Conan O'Brien's exit.

'Speed Racer' gets passed in its debut - AP

"Speed Racer" was lapped in its opening weekend at the box office as "Iron Man" continued to fire its jets with $50.5 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.

"Iron Man" pounds rivals at box offices - Reuters

Superhero movie "Iron Man" pounded the competition at North American box offices for the second straight weekend, landing at No. 1 with $50.5 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates on Sunday.

In debut, 'Speed Racer' gets passed by $50.5M 'Iron Man' - AP

"Speed Racer" was lapped in its opening weekend at the box office as "Iron Man" continued to fire its jets with $50.5 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.

Gaza cartoon commemorates Palestinian "Nakba" - Reuters

Jewish fighters are shown shooting Palestinians and bombing their villages in an animated film by Gaza-based women marking 60 years since Israel was founded and hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced.

Cannes pits Hollywood against obscure arthouse - Reuters

Hollywood legends and obscure arthouse directors descend on Cannes from Wednesday for the world's biggest film festival that combines edgy cinema with A-list celebrities, glitzy parties and frenetic deal-making.

indieWIRE INTERVIEW | "Bloodline" Director Bruce Burgess - indieWIRE

Documentarian Bruce Burgess has directed a series of conspiracy-oriented films over the past decades, from 1996's "Dreamland: Area 51" to 2002's "Bigfootville." In his first foray into theatrically released documentaries, Burgess (who usually hosts the films as well) takes on the so-called "bloodline conspiracy" that suggests that Jesus Christ married Mary Magdalene, and that she had his child. Taking over three years to complete, the film is the first investigation into this conspiracy to bring...

PANGEA DAY '08 UPDATE | Today's Inaugural Worldwide Event Brings Film and Dialog to the Globe - indieWIRE

Last week, the Tribeca Film Festival turned a spotlight on the pending launch of Pangea Day, which can probably be best described as the first "worldwide film festival." For four hours today -- May 10, 2008 -- twenty-four films "made by the world for the world" will be broadcast live around the globe via the Internet and at organized events around the globe. In a discussion ahead of today's event, the movers and shakers behind Pangea Day discussed the beginning of a global film experiment.

Child 'Forrest Gump' actor leaving Army - AP

As a boy, Michael Conner Humphreys made a splash on the silver screen as "Young Forrest Gump." As an adult, he somewhat mirrored the life of his movie character: He joined the Army and fought in an unpopular war.

Uma Thurman sues Lancome in advertising dispute - AP

NEW YORK (AP) Uma Thurman responded to French cosmetics giant Lancome's lawsuit against her with one of her own Friday, taking their contract dispute over the use of her name and face in an advertising campaign to federal court.

Lindsay Lohan walks away from Manson movie - Reuters

Lindsay Lohan passed up a role in a movie about convicted killer Charles Manson in order to accept two other offers, including a guest star turn on the TV comedy "Ugly Betty," her publicist said on Friday.

A Pair of Very Personal Debuts - FilmStew.com

For documentary filmmakers Irene Taylor Brodsky and Ben Byer, an intimate personal knowledge of disability and disease has translated into success on the film festival circuit.

It's Twitter, Don't JUNO - FilmStew.com

In just a few weeks, more than 3,000 people have jumped aboard the Diablo Cody news bulletin train.

This Frame Can Be Yours - FilmStew.com

Like the tote board that Jerry Lewis keeps pointing to every Labor Day Weekend, the home page of MyMillionDollarMovie.com features a more modest but no less intriguing scroll. William Foss, United States, 10 frames; Lance Sherbourne, Canada, 1 frame; Neil Green, Canada, 10 frames…

In the Shadow of a LEGEND - FilmStew.com

At age 36, John Wayne's grandson Brendan has finally found his way to the western genre via a pair of 1870's tales.

A McCartney Mockumentary - FilmStew.com

Can Sir Paul still laugh about matrimonial matters in the wake of his ugly divorce with Heather Mills? The makers of a new comedy documentary hope so.

Oliver Stone movie on Bush set for October release - Reuters

Director Oliver Stone has landed a distribution deal with independent studio Lionsgate to get an upcoming film about President George W. Bush into U.S. theaters in October, shortly before the presidential election.

"Pirates" maker to turn "BioShock" game into film - Reuters

Take-Two Interactive Software Inc said on Friday that "Pirates of the Caribbean" director Gore Verbinski will make a movie version of "BioShock," its hit video game about an underwater utopia gone disastrously wrong.

Fans flocking to see 'Sex and the City' _ in the city - AP

Forget the Empire State Building. Some New York tourists are eager to see the city's other landmarks: Carrie's stoop, Charlotte's gallery and that restaurant where Samantha threw a martini in a boyfriend's face.

Glenn Close's best-known roles belie love of dogs - AP

Glenn Close's signature characters have boiled a bunny, plotted the skinning of Dalmatian puppies and, more recently, helped arrange the killing of a pet dog to leverage a balky witness.

Foxy Brown pleads guilty to menacing Brooklyn neighbor - AP

Rapper Foxy Brown has pleaded guilty to menacing a neighbor with her cell phone last year. She avoided jail based on time already served.

Pirates director to turn BioShock game into film - Reuters

Take-Two Interactive Software Inc said on Friday that "Pirates of the Caribbean" director Gore Verbinski will make a movie version of "BioShock," its hit video game about an underwater utopia gone disastrously wrong.

NEWFEST '08 | 20th Anniversary Marked With 250 Films, New Additions - indieWIRE

The New York Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Film Festival (NewFest) announced the program of films and events for its 20th annual edition. The line-up features nearly 250 films, representing over 30 countries, and including 49 New York Premieres, 14 U.S. Premieres and 8 World Premieres. "Each year we try to make NewFest bigger and better than the last one," Basil Tsiokos, Artistic Director of NewFest in a statement. Among the new additions is NewDraft Screenplay Competition & Reading...

Pace picks up `The Fall,' but won't push it too much - AP

Near as Lee Pace can tell, the best way to scare audiences away is to tell them how good something is.

Book lifts lid on star of eerie first Dracula film - Reuters

The first screen portrayal of Dracula was so eerie, some critics asked whether the actor himself could be a vampire. But since his death, little has been done to resurrect Max Schreck's reputation -- until now.

Cosmetics firm Lancome and Uma Thurman in contract dispute - AP

French cosmetics giant Lancome and Uma Thurman are wrangling over the use of her name and image in an advertising campaign.

Portrait of Heath Ledger wins Australian art award - AP

A portrait of Hollywood star Heath Ledger painted weeks before his death has won an Australian art award.

Maid Marion: Karen Allen is thrilled over `Indy' return - AP

Nothing ever seems to change in the stormy love-hate relationship between Indiana Jones and Marion Ravenwood.

"Speed Racer" gears up to take second - Reuters

Here's a near iron-clad certainty for this weekend's boxoffice: "Iron Man" will fly to No. 1 -- again.

Oliver Stone making a comedy? Maybe, with Bush film - Reuters

"W" may not be Oscar-winning director Oliver Stone's first political biopic or even his first controversial film, but it may be his first comedy.

Lionsgate and writer Ward get their due with "Devil" - Reuters

Lionsgate has picked up the rights to the comic book "Deal With the Devil" and has hired writer Kyle Ward to adapt it for the big screen.

Perlman to play gang lord in "Bunraku" - Reuters

"Hellboy" star Ron Perlman will play the bad guy in the hybrid martial arts movie "Bunraku."

Sign of the Times? Insiders React To Picturehouse, Warner Indie Closures - indieWIRE

The tragedy was in plain sight, but nobody thought it would hit this hard. As word spread today that Warner Bros. planned to close its specialty divisions Picturehouse and Warner Independent Pictures, shifting all projects currently in development to the larger studio and its recently absorbed subdivision New Line, a mournful tone took hold of the independent film industry. "It is a sad day when any film company, large or small, bites the dust," said President of THINKfilm Mark Urman. "One had...

Overture joins sci fi universe via teuton pic - Reuters

Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster are in final negotiations to star in the sci-fi action film "Pandorum."

"Unthinkable" happens for Samuel L. Jackson - Reuters

Samuel L. Jackson is set to star in the suspense thriller "Unthinkable."

Marital warfare strains for laughs in "Vegas" - Reuters

A mean-spirited streak is creeping into studio-manufactured rom-coms these days -- you know, where someone wants to sabotage his best friend's wedding. This escalates in Fox's "What Happens in Vegas," a film that views marriage as a combat sport.

"Sopranos" creator signs deal for first film - Reuters

David Chase, creator of the acclaimed TV mob drama "The Sopranos," has signed a deal with Paramount Pictures to write, produce and direct his first feature film, the studio said on Thursday.

How Iron Man was trounced by a scruffy car thief - AP

Niko Bellic is richer than Tony Stark.

FEATURE - The KINGDOM of Maria Bello - FilmStew.com

A decade and a half into her illustrious career, Maria Bello has finally caught up with the spirit of the Steven Spielberg adventure that inspired her to become an actress.

Connecticut's Golden Couple - FilmStew.com

In this, the 50th golden anniversary year of Paul Newman's marriage to Joanne Woodward, the couple's last big screen collaboration is being celebrated in their home state by director James Ivory.

An Ode to Ozploitation - FilmStew.com

The new documentary Not Quite Hollywood takes a look back at the wave of low-budget Australian films sparked by the introduction in 1971 of a very liberal Australian R rating.

Inspired to SCREW CUPID - FilmStew.com

Filmmaker Sanjeev Sirpal is heading back to the Florida city block where he took his high school finals for a festival screening of his new romantic comedy.

New DVD releases include `Indiana Jones' boxed set - AP

Selected home-video releases:

Top 5 lists in TV, Film, Music, Concert Tours, Video, DVDs - AP

1. "American Idol" (Tuesday), Fox.

Capsule reviews of `Speed Racer' and others - AP

Capsule reviews of films opening this week:

Canadian filmmaker turns to Internet to finance movie - Reuters

An aspiring Canadian filmmaker is asking the public at large to help fund his first movie project, one frame at a time.

Just a minute with Christina Ricci on "Speed Racer" - Reuters

Actress Christina Ricci, who first hit the big screen opposite Cher in "Mermaids" at age 10, has been a Hollywood fixture for nearly two decades.

indieWIRE INTERVIEW | "Battle for Haditha" Director Nick Broomfield - indieWIRE

As a documentarian, Nick Broomfield has dissected American pop culture with films like "Biggie & Tupac" and "Kurt & Courtney." With his more recent forays into narrative feature filmmaking, he has broadened his scope to include global issues. "Ghosts" explored the dark world of Chinese migrant workers in the UK, and his latest work, "Battle for Haditha," which opened at Film Forum earlier this week, recreates the infamous 2005 incident where U.S. marines murdered two dozen Iraqi civilians in a...

Pangea Day '08 | Inaugural World Event Brings Film and Dialog to the Globe - indieWIRE

The Tribeca Film Festival turned a spotlight on the pending launch of Pangea Day last week, which can probably be best described as the first "world-wide film festival." For four hours on May 10, twenty-four films "made by the world for the world" will be broadcast live around the globe via the Internet and at organized events around the globe. In a discussion ahead of the event, launching this Saturday, the movers and shakers behind Pangea Day discussed the beginning of a global film experiment.

DISPATCH FROM SAN FRANCISCO | America's Oldest Fest Takes on the Future - indieWIRE

"Last year we celebrated our past, but tonight we begin our future," commented San Francisco Film Society Executive Director Graham Leggat in his opening night remarks of the 51st San Francisco International Film Festival. Leggat was referring to the Film Society's plans to expand its identity into a more far-reaching and consistently present local force in terms of education outreach and year-round exhibition. But the promises, and more pointedly, the potential perils of what lies ahead in the...

Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon spill wedding beans to People - AP

Mariah Carey really did get married to Nick Cannon in the Bahamas last week and they have the tattoos to prove it.

Review: No luck finding surprises in `Vegas' - AP

Come on, now. You already know "What Happens in Vegas."

Wrap-up of entertainment quotes from The Associated Press - AP

"I don't like it when they get in their face. It is scary and frightening especially if you are not used to it and you are a kid. I think Lola is a little bit more familiar with it now. My son (Rocco) is still seriously irritated by it."_ Madonna, on dealing with the paparazzi taking photos of her children.

Morgan Freeman returns to Broadway to show his vulnerability - AP

Morgan Freeman has returned to Broadway with one goal in mind: to try to kill the Morgan Freeman you know and love.

Chillin' with Oz, Lassie and Scarlett O'Hara - AP

While Scarlett O'Hara stayed cool at home, Dorothy Gale took a year out to go skipping down a digital yellow brick road in a Hollywood film lab.

Kung Fu film 'The Forbidden Kingdom' is a hit in China - AP

Jackie Chan and Jet Li's first movie together is a hit in China.

Gordon-Levitt and Deschanel sign on for "500 Days" - Reuters

Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel will star in the anti-romantic comedy "500 Days of Summer."

Waters' "Fruitcake" entices Knoxville and Posey - Reuters

Johnny Knoxville and Parker Posey are attached to star in John Waters' Christmas film "Fruitcake."

That Was the Week That Was - AP

Entertainment highlights during the week of May 11-17:

Celebrity Birthdays - AP

Celebrity birthdays for the week of May 11-17:

"Terminator 4" starts filming despite strike fears - Reuters

He'll be back -- Hollywood strike or no strike!

Retracing the BALIBO Five - FilmStew.com

Without a Trace star Anthony LaPaglia will be returning to his native Australia later this year to shoot the film version of a very famous episode in Down Under journalism.

Beholden to BANDITS - FilmStew.com

Patrick Lavelle is heading to the 2008 Cannes Film Festival for two reasons: to cover the event for his former employer and to peddle a movie project backed by an Oscar winning producer.

Party of Four - FilmStew.com

Neve Campbell is the wild card in a new real-time British gangster film about four drug dealing punks trying to figure out which one of them has $4 million in cash.

Chiranjeevi Closes In on Another Milestone - FilmStew.com

Telugu cinema megastar Chiranjeevi is the same age as Mel Gibson (52), but on the movies-starred-in front, he is ahead by about 110 feature films.

BIZ | Cablevision Stretches its Rainbow to Sundance Channel - indieWIRE

Rainbow Media announced today a plan to purchase the Sundance Channel for $496 million. Confirming reports that the network was seeking a buyer and Rainbow Media was the lead contender, the deal finds Rainbow Media Holdings, LLC, a programming subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation, buying the channel from its current owners NBC Universal, CBS, Showtime Networks and Robert Redford. The Sundance founder, meanwhile, will continue his role as the network's creative director, in addition to...

Journalist dishes details about Uma Thurman stalker trial - AP

A Wall Street Journal reporter is sharing details about her experience as a juror in the Uma Thurman stalking trial, including some jurors' suspicions about whether her testimony was genuine.

'Mrs. Garrett' teaches Adam Sandler character facts of life - AP

At age 82, it sounds like Mrs. Garrett is still teaching youngsters about the facts of life.

Dina Lohan's `Top Mom' honor brings bad press to mommy group - AP

The founder of an organization that honored Dina Lohan as a "Top Mom" says things "spun out of control" when the media focused all its attention on the tabloid magnet.

CineVegas '08 | "Rocker," "Howard" and Debuts Crown 10th CineVegas Fest - indieWIRE

The world premiere of Peter Cattaneo's "The Rocker," starring Rainn Wilson as a failed drunmmer who joins his nephew's high school band, will open the 10th annual CineVegas Film Festival, taking place in Las Vegas June 12 - 21. Among this year's debuts are seven world premieres the festival has packaged in its "Jackpot Premieres" section (listed below) in addition to the festival's documentary section (including three world debuts), a sidebar on Mexican films and directors as well as high profile...

REVIEW | Embedded: Nick Broomfield's "Battle for Haditha" - indieWIRE

[An indieWIRE review from Reverse Shot.]

"Haditha" film shows both sides of Iraq killings - Reuters

"Battle for Haditha" dramatizes one of the most controversial incidents of the Iraq war -- the killing of 24 Iraqi civilians by U.S. Marines -- but former Marine Elliot Ruiz who stars in the film says it doesn't give the Marine Corps a bad name.

Word of Madonna film reaches village of David Banda's father - AP

Some 100 miles from Malawi's capital, the dusty village of Lipunga has no movie theaters or video players, let alone electricity. But villager Yohane Banda has at least heard that Madonna's new documentary is meant to draw attention to this southern African country's poverty.

Brolin and Alley sign on for Russell's "Nailed" - Reuters

James Brolin is replacing James Caan in David O. Russell's "Nailed," with Kirstie Alley and Olivia Crocicchia also boarding the politically charged romantic comedy.

"Spirit" rises to Christmas release - Reuters

Lionsgate has moved up the nationwide release of its comic-book adaptation "The Spirit" to Christmas Day.

Sex-crazed "Superbad" nerds rule MTV Movie nods - Reuters

Two sex-obsessed nerds in teen comedy "Superbad" topped the nominations for the 2008 MTV Movie Awards with five nods, while quirkie "Juno" about a pregnant 16 year-old came in just behind with four.

Hollywood producers suspend talks with Screen Actors Guild - AP

Hollywood producers on Tuesday temporarily broke off contract talks with the Screen Actors Guild, calling its demands regarding DVD sales and online content "unreasonable."

Harrelson and Morton sign for "Messenger" - Reuters

Woody Harrelson and Samantha Morton have joined the cast of the road movie "The Messenger."

"Babysitters" falls short of intended satire - Reuters

Attempting to be this generation's "Risky Business," "The Babysitters" is the sort of ribald morality tale that manages to feel sleazy and decorous at the same time. The tale of a high school girl starting her own prostitution ring relishes the amorality of its central characters even while purporting to be an incisive depiction of suburban sexual mores. Although artfully executed, this film, written and directed by David Ross, never manages to overcome its exploitative...

Ellen Page books a classic with "Jane Eyre" role - Reuters

Jane Eyre could be taking another swoon on the big screen -- with Ellen Page playing the iconic British character.

'Superbad' leads MTV Movie Awards nominees - AP

"Superbad" has supergood chances of winning a trophy at the MTV Movie Awards.

Jonas Brothers tour getting 3-D film treatment - Reuters

Following in the steps of fellow Disney teen star Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers will star in a 3-D concert film.

FEATURE - No Fan of the Method - FilmStew.com

Dropping in on the San Francisco International Film Festival for a tribute and awards ceremony, British filmmaker Mike Leigh remains committed to the idea of actors referring to their characters in the third person.

An Awards Show on the RUN - FilmStew.com

Whereas the possibility on an ongoing writers strike threatened the 2007 Academy Awards, it is real political unrest that forced a last-minute venue change for the 2008 African Movie Academy Awards.

Better Romcom Than RED - FilmStew.com

After several successful attempts at subverting genre with the theme of masculine amorality, playwright-filmmaker David Mamet falls flat on the mat with Redbelt.

A Female Roger Corman? - FilmStew.com

Wouldn't it be fitting if the 21st century version of the 1960's low-budget movie pioneer was a woman? Returning collaborator Glen Jensen thinks so.

Common joins "Terminator" cast - Reuters

Rapper Common will have a starring role in the upcoming fourth installment of the "Terminator" series, "Terminator Salvation: The Future Begins."

Review: `Speed Racer' just spinning its wheels - AP

The Wachowski brothers have tumbled into a matrix of their own with "Speed Racer," one which has rendered them completely out of touch with the outside world.

Review: A gorgeous but complicated `Fall' - AP

"The Fall," a whacked-out fairy tale for grown-ups, is as stunning in its beauty as it is in its lack of logic.

Jury in New York City convicts fan of stalking Uma Thurman - AP

A former mental patient obsessed with Uma Thurman faces up to a year in jail after a jury convicted him Tuesday of stalking and harassing the actress with a barrage of frightening advances.

'Sex and the City,' at 40 and even maybe (gasp) 50 - AP

Early on in the new "Sex and the City" film and don't worry, we're not spoiling the plot here Carrie and longtime love Mr. Big are in bed together. A passionate interlude? Nah, they're just reading. Except they both need glasses, and there's only one pair.

Christina Ricci goes back to blockbusters - Reuters

Turns out Christina Ricci, who has become a darling of independent film fans, isn't so 'indie' after all.

Judy Davis sues Australian newspaper for defamation - AP

Judy Davis told an Australian court Tuesday that she stopped attending her daughter's soccer games out of anguish over newspaper articles she claims suggested she hates children.

REVIEW | Imagine That: Tarsem Singh's "The Fall" - indieWIRE

[An indieWIRE review from Reverse Shot.]

The Jonas brothers to star in 3-D concert film of their tour - AP

The Jonas brothers will be shown in all their 3-D glory next year in a movie featuring footage from their upcoming "Burning Up" concert tour.

Christina Ricci returns to Hollywood blockbusters - Reuters

Turns out Christina Ricci, who has become a darling of independent film fans, isn't so 'indie' after all.

Fast-talking: Hirsch, Ricci share thoughts on `Speed Racer' - AP

"Speed Racer" stars Emile Hirsch and Christina Ricci are better known for smaller independent movies than summer blockbusters.

Scarlett Johansson, newly engaged, flashes ring in New York - AP

Hours after confirming her engagement to Ryan Reynolds, Scarlett Johansson flashed a diamond ring at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala.

NYC jury convicts fan of stalking Uma Thurman - AP

A lovesick former mental patient was convicted Tuesday of stalking and harassing Uma Thurman for more than two years, showing up on her front doorstep and movie set and sending the actress a series of creepy love letters.

Colbert, will.i.am among special Webby award recipients - AP

Stephen Colbert's use of the Internet to connect with fans earned the Comedy Central host special recognition as recipients of the annual Webby awards for Web sites and online achievements were announced Tuesday.

Iraq vet, talk show pioneer pair for anti-war film - Reuters

Phil Donahue met thousands of intriguing people during three decades as a top TV talk show host, but it was an inert Iraq war veteran in a hospital bed that led him to the most compelling story in his life.

Mogul Redstone: Cruise can star in next 'Mission Impossible' - AP

Entertainment mogul Sumner Redstone said Tuesday he has no objection to Tom Cruise starring in the next segment of the popular "Mission Impossible" movie series, despite cutting his relationship with the actor in 2006.

NYC jury considers stalking case involving Uma Thurman - AP

The attorney for a man accused of stalking actress Uma Thurman has conceded that his client's behavior was obsessive. A prosecutor went much further, saying the man's actions "terrified" the star.

Cruise "Mission" return not impossible: Redstone - Reuters

Sumner Redstone, the executive chairman of cable network and movie studio owner Viacom Inc, will not oppose the casting of Tom Cruise in the next installment of the "Mission: Impossible" movie franchise.

Four accept Bitterman's "Job" offer - Reuters

Ron Perlman ("Hellboy"), Taryn Manning ("Hustle & Flow"), Joe Pantoliano ("The Sopranos") and Patrick Flueger (USA's series "The 4400") will star in the darkly comic drama "The Job."

Spidey and Bond DVDs headed to Vietnam - Reuters

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment will become the first major U.S. studio to release DVDs in Vietnam. The studio has partnered with Vietnamese company Galaxy Studio for distribution.

Universal rides with "Knights Templar" - Reuters

Universal has picked up the mantle of "The Knights Templar," acquiring a spec script on the historic military order by Adam Torchia and Justin Stanley.

"Crashers" remake would break ground in Bollywood - Reuters

A Bollywood version of "The Wedding Crashers" could be the first authorized remake of a Hollywood film in India.

Susan Sarandon and Josh Lucas flock to "Peacock" - Reuters

Susan Sarandon, Bill Pullman and Josh Lucas are joining Cillian Murphy and Ellen Page in the psychological thriller "Peacock."

Strand Releasing goes "Cherry" picking - Reuters

Strand Releasing has acquired all domestic rights to Doris Dorrie's German love story "Cherry Blossoms -- Hanami."

iW BOT | Chart-Topping 'Mister Lonely' Makes Harmony Korine the Comeback Kid - indieWIRE

"Mister Lonely," filmmaker Harmony Korine's sweet-natured drama about two lovelorn celebrity impersonators, rocketed past all art-house releases with a debut, per-screen average of $16,769 at New York's IFC Center. "Son of Rambow," British filmmaker Garth Jennings' coming- of-age comedy for Paramount Vantage, also debuted in the iWBOT top five, which ranks films by per-screen average, with $53,778 in weekend box office from five runs in New York and Los Angeles. Rounding out the iWBOT Top Five...

'Sex and the City' director addresses death rumor - AP

Will "Sex and the City" have a "Death in the City?" It's been a persistent rumor in cyberspace as the buzz kicks into overdrive for the film opening later this month.

Marvel plans "Iron Man" sequel - Reuters

Buoyed by the blockbuster success of "Iron Man" over the weekend, Marvel Studios on Monday announced plans for a string of superhero properties, including an "Iron Man" sequel set for April 2010.

NYC jury gets case of man charged with stalking Uma Thurman - AP

A celebrity-obsessed loner "terrified" Uma Thurman by flooding her with phone calls and e-mails, ringing her doorbell at all hours and threatening to kill himself if he couldn't meet her, a prosecutor said Monday in closing arguments.

TRIBECA '08 | Catching up on 20 Interviews, Critics Notebooks Dispatches and More from the Festival - indieWIRE

The 2008 Tribeca Film Festival came to a close over the weekend in New York City and indieWIRE is wrapping up its coverage from the 12-day event. Our festival dispatches, interviews, critics notebooks amounted to twenty related articles on this year's festival, which took place April 23 - May 4 in addition to iPOP photos and buzz items. We invite you to check out iW's coverage from Tribeca.

`Iron Man' alchemy translates to $98.6M opening weekend - AP

Fictional billionaire Tony Stark has made a fortune in Hollywood as the superhero adventure "Iron Man" pulled in $98.6 million domestically in its first weekend.

Shyamalan says his new movie, `The Happening,' is terrifying - AP

M. Night Shyamalan says his new film, "The Happening," will terrify moviegoers.

Lining Up HARVEY PUTTER - FilmStew.com

What's Harry Potter's golfing handicap? Chances are if anyone has the answer, it's the Indiana-based makers of the upcoming feature film parody Harvey Putter and the Ridiculous Premise.

Honeymooning in Afghanistan - FilmStew.com

A new Australian documentary picks up on the basic premise of Patch Adams and kicks it into overdrive.

FRANKIE Goes to Apulia - FilmStew.com

Though the name Frank Gigante may not be a household one in the United States, his recent triumphs over in Italy have sparked a fast-mushrooming docudrama project.

A Father and Son Project - FilmStew.com

The latest byproduct of the ongoing Extra/Ordinary Film Project was written by Jonathan Cring and directed by his son Jon.

Marvel mines more precious metal with `Iron Man 2' - AP

This weekend was just the beginning of Hollywood's Iron age.

Deliberations at NYC trial for accused Uma Thurman stalker - AP

A former mental patient "terrified" Uma Thurman by stalking and harassing her for more than two years, a prosecutor said in closing arguments at his trial.

Scarlett Johansson and Ryan Reynolds engaged - AP

Scarlett Johansson and her boyfriend, Ryan Reynolds, are engaged.

Tom Cruise says he feels at home on a movie set - AP

A movie set is one of the places Tom Cruise feels most at home.

"Iron Man 2" set for summer 2010 - Reuters

Following the film's blockbuster opening weekend, Marvel Entertainment is planning an "Iron Man" sequel for 2010 after a 2009 without feature releases.

NY attorney general backs film piracy bill - Reuters

New York's attorney general proposed legislation on Monday that would set heavier penalties for people who record movies in theaters to illegally sell or distribute.

Marvel turns `Iron Man' into gold with $100M-plus debut - AP

"Iron Man" was pure gold at the box office.

Tom Hanks announces support for Obama's presidential bid - AP

Tom Hanks is supporting presidential hopeful Barack Obama.

Amy Winehouse won't record Bond track - AP

Producer Mark Ronson says he and Amy Winehouse have abandoned recording the theme to the latest James Bond film because the singer is not ready to work.

Chinese cheer on as Olympic torch starts mainland leg - AP

Cheering Chinese stood on their chairs and waved flags as the Olympic torch started its mainland leg Sunday on the tropical island of Hainan the first stop in what is expected to be a peaceful three-month journey to Beijing.

Indy walks back through our door as `Crystal Skull' nears - AP

Marion Ravenwood might have been speaking for us all when she set eyes on Indiana Jones for the first time in years.

Bollywood director plans film on murdered UK girl - Reuters

A Bollywood filmmaker plans to make a film about a British teenager murdered at one of Goa's famed beaches, but a lawyer said the family was afraid the script could deviate from the truth.

Writing pair ready for "Fun" - Reuters

Screenwriters John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein have "Hours of Fun" in store working on the family comedy. Walt Disney Studios and Scott Rudin Prods. have hired the duo to rewrite the screenplay by Greg Pace.

"Dealer" headed to theaters via Maya - Reuters

Maya Entertainment is taking a big step into the mainstream, with the Hispanic-oriented producer and distributor acquiring all U.S. rights to Alex Rivera's Sundance award winner "Sleep Dealer."

Rick Yune wins "Ninja" role - Reuters

Rick Yune, whose big-screen credits includes roles in "Die Another Day" and "The Fast and the Furious," has been cast as the antagonist in the action film "Ninja Assassin."

Newly conceived NJ Hall of Fame inducts 15 of its finest - AP

Fifteen prominent New Jerseyans were inducted into the state's new Hall of Fame on Sunday night even though the actual hall doesn't exist yet.

"Reprise" rights to Miramax, Red Envelope - Reuters

Miramax Films and Netflix's Red Envelope Entertainment have nabbed U.S. rights to the Norwegian drama "Reprise."

"Iron Man" a superhero hit at the box office - Reuters

Comic book adventure "Iron Man" proved its mettle at the North America box office and topped expectations, kicking off the summer movie season with estimated weekend ticket sales of $100.75 million and marking a commercial rebound for its star, Robert Downey Jr.

"Iron Man" opens with box office bang - Reuters

Comic book adventure "Iron Man" proved its mettle at the North America box office and topped expectations, kicking off the summer movie season with estimated weekend ticket sales of $100.75 million and marking a commercial rebound for its star, Robert Downey Jr.

"Iron Man" opens with a bang - Reuters

Comic book adventure "Iron Man" proved its mettle at the North America box office, kicking off the summer movie season with estimated weekend ticket sales of $100.75 million and marking an unlikely commercial rebound for its star, Robert Downey Jr.

"Iron Man" gets heavy start at box office - Reuters

"Iron Man," the latest Marvel comics title brought to the big screen, grossed an estimated $32.5 million from its first full day in North American theaters, independent box office analysts reported on Saturday.

New Jersey Hall of Fame's first 15 inductees - AP

A look at the New Jersey Hall of Fame's first 15 inductees:

The Boss, Sinatra among N.J. Hall of Fame's first inductees - AP

Pop quiz: What comes to mind when you think about Yogi Berra, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein and Toni Morrison? Brilliant minds, inspiring souls, trailblazers all are likely responses.

"Blair Witch" director aims to repeat suspense hit - Reuters

Nine years after the low-cost horror film "The Blair Witch Project" became a hugely profitable cult phenomenon, its co-director hopes to recapture some of that excitement with his new thriller, "The Objective."

Reports: Mariah Carey marries actor Nick Cannon - AP

NEW YORK (AP) Nick Cannon is cast as Mariah Carey's lover in her new video but has the superstar diva given the young actor a considerably bigger role in real life?

FEATURE - Bridging a TWELVE-Year Gap - FilmStew.com

A dozen years after guiding Geoffrey Rush to an Oscar, Scott Hicks has returned to the realm of classical music for a documentary portrait of another musical genius.

The Flix Club Front - FilmStew.com

Forced by a Directors Guild of America lawsuit to close down his edited movies business, Daniel Dean Thompson is now at the center of some very sordid accusations.

Preparing for PONTYPOOL - FilmStew.com

Stopping by a Toronto all-news radio station, filmmaker Bruce McDonald reveals some interesting plot details about his upcoming horror film.

WRESTLING with a Star's Newfound Fame - FilmStew.com

It took four years for Jeremy O'Keefe's indie drama to make it to a theater. In the interim, his lead actor was redefinted by a sensationalistic reality TV show.

Elizabeth Taylor backs Hillary Clinton - again - AP

Elizabeth Taylor said Friday she's supporting Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign, calling the New York senator a smart, strong leader.

Drama of domestic ennui too subtle for its own good - Reuters

This tale depicting the quiet existential despair of a married architect who finds his feelings reawakened by an attentive single woman is so muted and internal in its focus that its entire running time feels like a preamble to a drama that never quite begins.

Lil Wayne to star in sports film "Patriots" - Reuters

Rapper Lil Wayne will star in the New Orleans-set sports drama "Patriots" alongside Forest Whitaker and Bow Wow.

It's senior year as 'HSM3' begins filming in Salt Lake City - AP

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) In real life, Zac Efron is just as cute maybe cuter than he is dancing and singing as Troy Bolton in Disney's wildly popular "High School Musical" movies. That's the assessment from 10-year-old Eden Withers, who got a close look at Efron during a news conference at East High School to mark the filming of "High School Musical 3: Senior Year."

It's senior year for Troy and friends as `HSM3' begins - AP

In real life, Zac Efron is just as cute maybe cuter than he is dancing and singing as Troy Bolton in Disney's wildly popular "High School Musical" movies.

PR experts give good reviews to Cruise on Winfrey's show - AP

Tom Cruise went back to where his run of negative publicity began: On a couch, next to Oprah Winfrey.

Women take the documentary helm at Tribeca fest - Reuters

Documentaries are the perfect genre for women, says Sheila Johnson, who produced "A Powerful Noise," a portrait of female activists and one of dozens of female-helmed documentaries playing this year at New York's Tribeca Film Festival.

Lindsay Lohan mugshot used in liquor industry ad - AP

Lindsay Lohan is not exactly toasting her latest public appearance.

Accused NY stalker says he didn't mean to scare Uma Thurman - AP

A fan accused of creepy behavior that "completely freaked out" Uma Thurman insisted Friday that he never meant to frighten her.

Denzel Washington tells NY kids science is important - AP

Denzel Washington says inner-city schoolkids have to be reminded that scientists are more important than entertainers.

indieWIRE INTERVIEW | "Hollywood Chinese" Director Arthur Dong - indieWIRE

Documentary director Arthur Dong has been working since the early 1980s, when one of his first shorts, "Sewing Woman," was nominated for an Academy Award. Since then, he has directed a series of docs on political and social issues, including 1994's Peabody Award winning "Coming Out Under Fire" and 1997's Sundance favorite "Licensed To Kill," which took a chilling look at the lives of people convicted of violent hate crimes against gay men (Dong himself was a victim of gay bashing in 1977). His...

indieWIRE INTERVIEW | "Redbelt" Director David Mamet - indieWIRE

Well, you can't accuse David Mamet of slacking off. That "Redbelt," his new martial arts film, hits the screen May 2, while "November," a hilarious political broadside, plays to packed houses on Broadway highlights the man's amazing productivity. In the theatre, Mamet has created, of course, his own dramatic idiom, a tough-guy vernacular of fractured speech and pauses which masks male insecurity, while skewering venality and the decline of values. With his 1988 "House of Games" he annexed a...

Tom Cruise not sure he would take back couch-jumping - AP

Tom Cruise says his couch-jumping on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" seemed to set off a "confluence" of bad publicity for him, but he's not sure he would take it back.

New mayor to tone down glitz at Rome film festival - Reuters

Expect less Hollywood glamour and more home-grown cinema at the Rome film festival -- the new right-wing mayor of Italy's capital has made clear he wants to see changes at the movie showcase created by his predecessor.

Snipes' attorneys to appeal tax conviction, 3-year sentence - AP

Lawyers for Wesley Snipes have filed notice to appeal his federal tax conviction.

Film celebrates tightrope walk between Twin Towers - Reuters

Even before they were built, New York's Twin Towers provided a dream for Philippe Petit, and he spent six years chasing that dream until he conquered them with a spectacular, illegal act.

Julie Andrews writes autobiography of early life - AP

When Julie Andrews was 14, her mother took her to a party at the home of a man in a nearby town. At her mother's bidding, the girl sang a song for the guests and sat down for a talk with the host, who was "tall and fleshly handsome."

Uma Thurman 'freaked out' by accused NYC stalker - AP

Uma Thurman's hands shook slightly and her lips quivered as she told a jury about the bizarre card she received from her accused stalker.

Latest Hollywood script deals - Reuters

Whitewater Films and "Akeelah and the Bee" producer Reactor Films have optioned Amy Morland and Vicki Rocco's romantic comedy screenplay "The Transitional Guy."

Indie film "Visitor" knocks on more doors - Reuters

Despite all the focus on summer's looming tentpoles, a couple of recent art house releases bear watching.

"Iron Man" shares spotlight with romantic comedy - Reuters

Tagging along behind "Iron Man" in the superhero saga's march to the box office altar this weekend will be a little counter-programming flower girl, "Made of Honor."

"Iron Man" producer Marvel mulling next movie - Reuters

With "Iron Man" set to explode this weekend, the next question for producer Marvel Entertainment is: What now?

Indie filmmakers brace for hit from recession - Reuters

How vibrant is the independent film scene? How much does it depend on the major film festivals? How useful are the markets that accompany them?

Oprah's couch is safe: Cruise more subdued during taping - AP

CHICAGO (AP) Tom Cruise didn't jump on Oprah Winfrey's couch this time. The actor was in Chicago on Thursday to tape an episode of "The Oprah Winfrey Show," a tribute to his showbiz career that took off 25 years ago when he danced in his underwear in "Risky Business." Audience members told The Associated Press that Cruise's demeanor was nothing like his infamous coach-jumping incident three years ago, when he made a spectacle of himself while proclaiming his love for now wife Katie Holmes.

Miley Cyrus to skip scheduled Disney red carpet event - AP

Miley Cyrus made an appearance at Disney World, but won't be sticking around long enough for the media to join her.

"Iron Man" garners commercial, critical buzz - Reuters

"Iron Man" got an early start on the weekend by opening across North America on Thursday night amid rosy sales forecasts and glowing reviews.

Sweden and Liberia films win NY Tribeca awards - Reuters

A Swedish coming-of-age horror film and a U.S. documentary about female peace activists in war-torn Liberia won the top awards at New York's Tribeca Film Festival on Thursday.

TRIBECA '08 | "Let the Right One In" and "Pray the Devil" Among Top Tribeca Fest Winners - indieWIRE

Swedish director Tomas Alfredson's "Let the Right One In" (Lat den ratte komma in), recently acquired by Magnolia Pictures' genre label Magnet, won the Founders Award for Best Narative Feature tonight at the Tribeca Film Festival's awards event held at the Target-Tribeca Filmmaker Lounge in downtown New York City. The prize includes $25,000 in cash and an art award entitled, "Maternal Nocture: Clearing Storm" created by Stephen Hannock. Director Gini Reticker's "Pray the Devil Back to Hell" won...

`Pray the Devil Back to Hell' wins top doc honor at Tribeca - AP

"Pray the Devil Back to Hell," a documentary about the role women played in ending civil war in Liberia, was among the films honored at the seventh annual Tribeca Film Festival.

FEATURE - Set Phasers on Sequel - FilmStew.com

Before Star Trek XI sends John Cho's career into the stratosphere, he is happy to be earthbound in Harold and Kumar II.

Defiling the AUTEUR Theory - FilmStew.com

Though not quite a video store clerk turned filmmaker on the level of Quentin Tarantino, Portland, Oregon moviemaker James Westby continues to do his best to stock the New Releases section.

Apple's iTunes sells movies on DVD release date - Reuters

Apple Inc said on Thursday it reached deals with top Hollywood studios to sell movies on its iTunes download service on the same day as the titles are released in DVD form, bringing its clout to a nascent market for video entertainment.

Documenting a Disabled DOGWALKER - FilmStew.com

It seems only logical that a filmmaker named Rosie Dransfeld would eventually figure out a way to win something called a Rosie Award.

In the Company of Aspiring Filmmakers - FilmStew.com

Playwright and cineaste Neil LaBute has good things to say about the winner of Filmaka.com's first annual feature film competition.

DISPATCH FROM MIAMI | Miami Gay Fest Tosses on the Go-Go Boots and Throws a Bash - indieWIRE

It's hard to believe that it's only the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival's 10th anniversary. In only a decade, it has established itself as the first major stop on the annual U.S. gay and lesbian festival circuit. Filmmakers, sponsors and audiences alike have jumped at the invitation to spend time amongst Miami's famed art deco facades, shirtless rollerbladers, and endless parade of girls pulling at their short skirts and falling over their heels. It's a distinctly Miami affair.

"Iron Man" poised to blast box office into summer - Reuters

Hollywood studios are counting on actor Robert Downey Jr. and his big-screen incarnation as "Iron Man" to blast them out of a box office slump as the lucrative summer movie season opens this weekend.

Uma Thurman testifies at NYC trial of accused stalker - AP

Uma Thurman testified Thursday that she was frightened and panicked when her accused stalker sent her a card with a drawing of an open grave, a headstone and a man standing on the edge of a razor blade.

Cusack aims to offend with war satire film - Reuters

John Cusack is outraged over the Iraq war, so the U.S. actor channeled his anger into a low-budget political satire -- complete with a chorus line of scantily clad female amputees -- that he hopes will offend.

Love, not politics, tops Nicholson's "bucket list" - Reuters

Standing in the shower before the Tokyo premiere of his movie "The Bucket List," Jack Nicholson contemplated his own "bucket list" of last great goals, the three-time Oscar winner said on Wednesday.

Uma Thurman at NYC courthouse for trial of accused stalker - AP

Uma Thurman is at a lower Manhattan courthouse, where she is expected to testify against the man accused of stalking her.

Mia Farrow enters Hong Kong to protest China-Sudan ties - AP

Actress Mia Farrow was briefly questioned at Hong Kong's airport Thursday before officials allowed her to enter the Chinese territory to give a speech criticizing China's relations with Sudan.

Harvey Fierstein is a theater creature - AP

Harvey Fierstein, four-time Tony Award-winning actor, playwright and singer, has just turned down a part in an Adam Sandler movie.

`Star Wars' kid Abrams aims to reinvent `Trek' world - AP

J.J. Abrams grew up more a fan of Luke Skywalker and Han Solo than of James Kirk and his Vulcan buddy Spock. So why is a self-professed "Star Wars" kid directing "Star Trek"?

Moviegoers have "Sex" on the brain: poll - Reuters

Sorry "Iron Man." But moviegoers have something else on their minds as spring gives way to summer -- like Sex.

"My Girl" starlet joins political satire - Reuters

Former child actor Anna Chlumsky, who starred opposite Macaulay Culkin in the 1991 film "My Girl," will join "Sopranos" veteran James Gandolfini in the political satire "In the Loop."

Indian megastar Bachchan to play Bangladesh founder - Reuters

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his celebrity family members have all tentatively agreed to take part in a film based on the life of Bangladesh's founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, local media said on Thursday.

"Trucker" a breakthrough for Monaghan - Reuters

Film buffs may have recognized Michelle Monaghan's appeal in such movies as "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," "North Country" and "Gone Baby Gone."

Mariah Carey surprisingly effective in "Tennessee" - Reuters

It's slightly unfair to describe "Tennessee," which had its world premiere at the recent Tribeca Film Festival, as the new Mariah Carey movie, but that's the way most people will talk about it.

"Narnia" composer has become a franchise player - Reuters

For the 2005 movie "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," composer Harry Gregson-Williams was given an ambitious task: Write the score for a movie where the good guy is a talking lion who is a literary allusion to Jesus, the bad guy is a candy-toting wicked witch and the whole action is set in a fantasy world entombed in winter that children access via a wardrobe.

DVD restoration shows how "West" was done - Reuters

Warner Home Video is gearing up for one of its most ambitious catalog releases ever.

Tropical drama "Rains" not steamy enough - Reuters

The sort of steamy tropical melodrama that Hollywood used to produce with regularity in its golden age, "Before the Rains" depicts the tragic repercussions of an adulterous affair between an upscale British colonialist and his beautiful housemaid in 1930s India.

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