Universal Pictures
Prince jukebox musical movie in the works with Ryan Coogler as producer
The film is in production at Universal Pictures. Prince Jukebox Musical Movie in the Works with Ryan Coogler as Producer Jo Vito
Why Is Chris Pratt Voicing Mario?
The Internet wasn’t thrilled when Universal Pictures announced very-not-Italian Chris Pratt would voice Italian-via-Japan Mario in a new Super Mario Bros. animated film. But Pratt and those closest to the project, due to hit theaters in April 2023, are adamant that his interpretation of the beloved video game character will have you shouting “Wahoo!” (Sorry.) Chris Meledandri, a producer on the film and founder of Universal Pictures’ Illumination animation studio, believes he speaks for all Italian-Americans in saying Pratt’s take on Mario isn’t offensive. “When people hear Chris Pratt’s performance, the criticism will evaporate, maybe not entirely — people love to voice opinions, as they should,” Meledandri said back in June. “I’m not sure this is the smartest defense, but as a ...
Madonna Will Direct Her Own Biopic for Universal Pictures
If anyone is going to tell Madonna’s story, it’s going to be the pop music icon herself. Last week, Madonna confirmed that she was writing the screenplay of her own biopic in collaboration with Diablo Cody (Juno). Now, Madge has announced that she will also be directing the film. In a statement to Variety, Madonna said she wanted to be able chronicle her life and career on her own terms. “I want to convey the incredible journey that life has taken me on as an artist, a musician, a dancer – a human being, trying to make her way in this world,” she commented. The 62-year-old pop music icon also assured fans that her music would be the driving force of the as-yet-untitled movie. “The focus of this film will always be music,” continued Madonna. “Music has kept me going and art has kept me aliv...
AMC Theaters and Universal Shorten Theatrical Window to 17 Days Under Landmark New Deal
The United States’ inability to effectively combat the coronavirus pandemic is already forcing lasting changes in the entertainment industry. The latest stems out of a new deal between AMC Theaters and Universal Pictures, which will see the theatrical exclusivity for newly released movies reduced to just 17 days. As The Hollywood Reporter reports, the deal only applies to AMC’s US locations, but covers releases from both Universal and Focus Features. After a 17-day period that must include three separate weekends, the studios will have the option to make their movies available as video on demand rentals. While details are largely being kept undisclosed, it appears AMC will receive a revenue share from the VOD streaming. This marks a huge about-face for AMC, which had frequently threat...
