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James Gunn Teases “Absolutely Ridiculous”Guardians of the Galaxy’ Holiday Special

We’ve all wondered how the upcoming The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special might turn out. It’s very different from what Marvel has done before and we’ve already gotten a tease of a more lighthearted storyline with projects like Hawkeye. Its Christmas setting did offer something fun and if James Gunn is anything to go by, it seems that the next Guardians of the Galaxy special will be much of the same.

He talks about the upcoming series in an interview with Deadline, where he reveals that we can expect a “very light and bubbly and fun” Disney+ special. Yet, what truly stands out is that he even describes it as “ridiculous.” So, it looks like he had a blast making it and we might get something very special that makes even the Guardians franchise stand out once again as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Yes, the Holiday Special is very light and bubbly and fun and just absolutely ridiculous, so I think that’s great.
James Gunn

It’s definitely going to be interesting just how James Gunn interprets a Holiday Special and just how insane it might get with a cast as the Guardians films have. He’s teased some new faces will also appear, and it’s unclear how it might lead into the third part, but it definitely feels like we’ll have a blast watching whatever he and his crew have put together. Who knows if he may accidentally redefine what makes a Holiday Special the way it is.

Source: Deadline

June 18, 2022
James Gunn Will Tackle ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 After Wrapping Up ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’

We’ve all wondered when James Gunn may tackle the next season of Peacemaker. The director has been quite busy not only working on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 but also has the Holiday Special heading to Disney+ on the horizon. He’s also been teasing quite a few other DC properties that he is currently developing. So, it’s no joke when one says that the director is quite busy.

In an interview with Deadline, the director not only teased the upcoming Disney+ special based around the Guardians of the Galaxy but also confirmed that once he’s wrapped up work on these projects, he’ll tackle the second season of Peacemaker. He doesn’t offer a specific timeframe but it does seem like he may tackle the project once he’s wrapped up most of the work on the franchise, which is eyeing a May release next year.

Yes, the Holiday Special is very light and bubbly and fun and just absolutely ridiculous, so I think that’s great. And then we’re going on to do Peacemaker Season 2.
James Gunn

With a character like Peacemaker, Gunn has all the freedom he needs to create a story that can go in any direction. After saving the world, the former villain may be riding high and has no idea that a new assignment is just on the horizon. He’s haunted by the ghost of his past actions and who knows how that may play into his story moving forward. So, we’ll see what the future has in store for the character once cameras start rolling on the project.

Source: Deadline

June 18, 2022
‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ May Be Chris Hemsworth’s Last MCU Film

There have been many theories on when an actor may pull the plug on their time with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There’s never been a definite with many, as some moved away from taking on leading roles to appear in minor roles moving forward. We’ve had some famous exists after Avengers: Endgame, but now it looks like Chris Hemsworth may have found his end with the upcoming Thor: Love and Thunder.

In an interview with Wired, he answered a few of the most searched questions. When it came to the last film he shot in the MCU, he also highlighted that the fourth Thor film may be his last.

The last one I just shot was ‘Thor: Love and Thunder. And it may be my last, I don’t know.
Chris Hemsworth

The actor has been playing the role since the 2011 film that was among the many that kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe. So, while sad it wouldn’t be surprising that his run might be nearing its end soon. He has spent a lot of time with the character and the upcoming film will further tell the stories of Natalie Portman‘s Jane Foster and Tessa Thompson‘s Valkyrie.

So, the Asgardians aren’t truly leaving the world of the MCU behind but the God of Thunder may be slowly trying to find his way out, even if it would be nice to have his iconic Fear Itself storyline be the way he’s given a true farewell. With Taika Waititi‘s more comedic run, one last more serious turn to fully explore the potential of Thor may be the perfect way to end his story on a high note.

Source: YouTube via Insider

June 18, 2022
‘The Flash’: Warner Bros Discovery’s $200 Million Problem

Over the past year, Ezra Miller has found themselves in a plethora of trouble. Following multiple arrests in Hawaii, the controversial star is currently on the run and is facing even more concerning allegations, which is leaving Warner Bros. Discovery to consider what to do with The Flash movie now that it is in post-production.

For years, it seemed as though The Flash movie was a myth – a film that was in development but seemed likely to come to fruition. Then, in July 2019, Warner Bros. hired Andy Muschietti to direct the long-promised Flash movie starring Miller. The young actor had, of course, been attached to the project since 2014 when it was revealed he’d joined the cast of Batman v. Superman. So, with the movie now in the can and set to introduce a brand new Supergirl to live-action, the studio is eagerly trying to determine how to go about handling the film with Miller’s troublesome behavior.

According to a new report from Deadline, the studio is said to have considered getting help for the young actor. However, with the allegations against Miller continuing to build, Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav has a big decision to make… and soon. Per the outlet, one option Zaslav is considering is pulling back on Miller’s promotional duties for the 2023 film. This choice would confine it to some P&A, but no publicity tour. Another option being explored is moving the film to HBO Max. While a third option would be to lean in toward making the movie a hit and then dropping Miller if they can’t get their act together. Either way, the studio is facing a tough decision and will need to make a choice relatively soon.

A studio source told Deadline the hope is that the sandal will remain “low level” ahead of the film’s release next year. For now, The Flash remains on track for a Summer 2023 theatrical release with Miller still very much in the starring role. As for the actor’s future beyond The Flash? Deadline reports Miller will not be involved in any future plans involving the character and the forthcoming DC Universe being constructed by Zaslav.

Source: Deadline.

June 18, 2022
TNT’s ‘Snowpiercer’ Set to End After Fourth Season

After a successful run on the TNT network, Snowpiercer is set to finish its run with their upcoming fourth season. The show was based off of the critically acclaimed Chris Evans-led 2013 film of the same name made by Bong Joon-ho (which in itself is based off of the French graphic novel Le Transperceneige by Jacques Lob). Set in the same universe, but a few years before the film, the Snowpiercer series followed Jennifer Connelly’s Melanie Cavill and Daveed Diggs’ Andre Layton on the titular luxury train as they deal with the socio-political ramifications of class warfare in the midst of the aftermath of global catastrophe.

In a statement made by a TNT network spokesperson today, they talked about their appreciation for the team behind the show for its successful run on the network.

We can confirm that Snowpiercer will end after a successful, multi-season run on TNT. Its talented writers, actors and crew took an extraordinary premise and brought it to life in thrilling ways. It was critically acclaimed, had a significant impact on the post-apocalyptic genre, and now remains in the hearts and minds of fans forever.
Turner Network Television

The news of the show’s end comes in line with mass turnover in the way WarnerMedia is handling its entertainment properties since the merger with Discovery and the appointment of David Zaslav as the new President and CEO of the company. A focus to consolidate resources, focus on fewer channels of media (namely the HBO Max streaming service), and emphasize cost effectiveness. With it, a recent edict was in place to end work on any new scripted series for both TNT and its sister network TBS. It remains to be seen the success of this new change, but ultimately the end of Snowpiercer continues to mark an emblematic change in the overall direction of WarnerMedia.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

June 17, 2022
Guy Ritchie to Direct Live-Action ’Hercules’

Guy Ritchie is returning to Disney to bring another animated classic to live-action.

Deadline is reporting that Ritchie, who helmed the live-action Aladdin for Disney, is reteaming with the studio to direct a live-action take on the animated classic Hercules. He’ll be working alongside AGBO, the production banner from Avengers: Endgame directors Joe & Anthony Russo, who are producing the project. With a director set, the search is now underway for a writer to rework the first draft turned in by Dave Callaham(Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings).

News of a live-action Hercules movie was first announced in October of last year. Since then, news on the project has been relatively quiet. Ritchie’s live-action take on Aladdin managed to cross $1 billion at the worldwide box office, despite plenty of controversy surrounding the title leading up to its release. He’s still expected to direct the sequel to that film, however, it’s unknown when that project will actually go into production.

Ritchie has a rather lengthy resume that includes The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Sherlock Holmes, and RocknRolla. He recently wrapped production on an untitled action thriller with JakeGyllenhaal, which has since sold to MGM and Amazon. Up next for the busy director is Operation Fortune: Ruse de guerrewhich he wrote, directed and executive produced. That project, starring Jason Statham, does not currently have a release date.

Source: Deadline.

June 17, 2022
‘Cleopatra’ Eyeing Move From Paramount to Universal

Cleopatra is moving from Paramount to Universal.

Deadline has confirmed that Universal is looking to pick up Cleopatra starring Gal Gadot. The Project was initially in development at Paramount, with The Falcon and the Winter Soldier executive producer and director Kari Skogland attached to direct. Per the outlet, Paramount looks to be losing the project since the studio failed to meet the timeline the creative team deemed necessary.

Cleopatra is being produced by Atlas Entertainment’s Charles Roven, Gal Gadot and her Pilot Wave Motion Pictures partner Jaron Varsano. Laeta Kalogridis (Shutter Island), who wrote the screenplay, is executive producing, as is Wonder Woman filmmaker, Patty Jenkins. As of this writing, deals are not currently yet in place with Universal.

It is of note that Roven is also working with Universal on Christopher Nolan’s upcoming WWII feature, Oppenheimer, so there is a link between him and the studio already. Paramount is still interested in the project and talks still seem to be underway between the producers and Universal, so it’s possible things will change. For now, though, it looks like Cleopatra will be making the jump to Universal.

A Cleopatra film has been in the works for years with actress Angelina Jolie initially set to star. That project, however, appears to have since stalled. Cleopatra currently does not have a release date.

Source: Deadline.

June 17, 2022
Chris Evans Shares Thoughts on Returning as Johnny Storm

Before he was the First Avenger in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Chris Evans suited up as Johnny Storm in Tim Story’s 2005 Fantastic Four. Evans has since become a central figure in the MCU with his role as the iconic Steve Rogers, last appearing in Avengers: Endgame.

But with Marvel’s most recent theatrical release, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and the introduction of Mister Fantastic, the MCU is much different than the last time audiences saw Evans. Possibilities that once seemed impossible are now much more plausible. So, with Evans stating it would be a tall order for him to return as Cap, it begs to question: would Evans be interested in returning to his first superhero role on the big screen?

Evans was asked this question in a recent interview while doing press for his upcoming film, Lightyear, with MTV’s Joshua Horowitz. Here’s what Evans had to say:

“No, no one’s ever come to me about that. I mean, I don’t look exactly the same anymore. That was 15, almost 20 years ago. Oh my God, I’m old. Yeah. Look, I would love it. I would love it. That would actually be an easier sell to me than coming back as Cap. You know what I mean? Cap is so precious to me. And you know, I almost don’t wanna disrupt what a beautiful experience that was. But Johnny Storm, I feel like he didn’t really get his day. That was before Marvel really found its footing. So I love that role, and you know, who knows.”

So, not only would Evans love to come back as Johnny Storm, he also indicated he feels there’s some unfinished business with the character.

With Marvel’s 2019 acquisition of Fox — in which the studio regained the rights to the Fantastic Four — and ripple effects of Loki and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, what seemed like a fan’s fantasy a few years ago is now something that could be reasonably explained to viewers. What do you think, would you like to see Evans don the blue and black one more time?

Source: MTV News

June 17, 2022
‘The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power’ Heading to Comic-Con

Middle-earth is heading back to Comic-Con International.

Deadline has revealed that Prime Video is looking to bring The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power to Comic-Con. The forthcoming series, which will bring fans back to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy world, will hit Hall H this July along with showrunners J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay.

The streamer looks to be going all out ahead of The Rings of Power’s debut this September. While it is unclear what Prime Video will debut during the Hall H presentation, one can assume footage will be debuted ahead of an appearance by some of the (massive) cast. The first season of The Rings of Power will cost Prime Video an astounding $462 million alone, that’s not accounting for the $250 million the streaming service paid back in 2017 for the television rights.

The series stars Cynthia Addai-Robinson (The Accountant), Robert Aramayo (The Empty Man), Owain Arthur, Maxim Baldry (Mr. Bean’s Holiday), Nazanin Boniadi (Homeland), Morfydd Clark, Ismael Cruz Córdova (In the Blood), Charles Edwards (The Kingdom of Bones), and Trystan Gravelle(Anonymous). Also starring in the series is Sir Lenny Henry, Ema Horvath, Markella Kavenagh, Joseph Mawle, Tyroe Muhafidin, Sophia Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Megan Richards, Dylan Smith, Charlie Vickers, Leon Wadham, Benjamin Walker, Daniel Weyman, and Sara Zwangobani.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will debut on Prime Video on Sept. 2^nd, 2022. The series is set in the Second Age of Middle-earth and takes place thousands of years before the events of the books and the movies. Like with most Prime Video titles, new episodes will be available weekly.

Source: Deadline.

June 17, 2022
Disney Plus Timeline Places ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ After the Events of ‘Black Panther’

Disney Plus has done wonders for fans who wish to watch the MCU in Timeline Order rather than release order as it provides what must be assumed to be the definitive order. Now, with Spider-Man: Homecoming making its way to the platform in the UK, Spider-Man: Homecoming has been given its official place.

According to D+ UK, the events of 2017’s Homecoming occur between Black Panther, which was released in 2018, and 2016’s Doctor Strange. Landing here also places it chronologically at the end of 3 films that all essentially spun out of Captain America: Civil War (Black Panther, Black Widow and Homecoming) and before the events of Thor: Ragnarok and Ant-Man and The Wasp, which most directly led to Avengers: Infinity War.

With Homecoming’s official place on the timeline revealed, Tom Holland’s other two Spider-Man films join 2008’s The Incredible Hulk as the only canon projects whose exact place on the timeline remains in question other than Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, which will get slotted in when in hits Disney Plus later this week.

Source: The Direct

June 17, 2022