Acceptable around the marquee

Robert P Niro and Paul DanoJames Schamus, Paul Weitz, Nick Flynn at preem.If this involves film game titles, there is no avoiding with Baloney. Just request author-director Paul Weitz, whose adaptation of Nick Flynn's memoir "Another Bullshit Evening in Suck City" morphed in to the MPAA-friendly "Being Flynn." "I wasn't whatsoever surprised the MPAA was getting none of (the initial title), however i was mildly surprised that certain cannot use asterisks to exchange words," Weitz stated at "Being Flynn's" Gotham premiere Thursday in the Tribeca Grand Hotel screening room. "You cannot even imply cursing if you wish to have your title on the marquee or perhaps in an advertisement. Still, I had been quite freaked out about altering the title since i thought it could indicate which i was watering the variation lower in some way." Title notwithstanding, the main focus Features pic in regards to a youthful guy who reunites together with his estranged father in a destitute shelter lost no autobiographical book's grit and received a ringing endorsement from Flynn. Actually, the writer had just one problem using the film: the brand new title. "The truth that i'm in it's a horror," he quipped in the after-party at Chinatown hotspot Pulqueria.

Thunderbird is a go for Giustra

VANCOUVER -- Lionsgate founder Frank Giustra is returning to the entertainment biz, making a significant investment in Vancouver-based Thunderbird Films to help expand and diversify its TV operations. Although the amount of coin wasn't revealed on Wednesday, it will make the Canadian businessman and philanthropist one of Thunderbird's major shareholders, per the production company's co-founders Tim Gamble and Michael Shepard, who serve as CEO and president, respectively. "As we expand our business and step up production, Frank's support ensures that we can maintain our independence and parlay incredible opportunities," Gamble said. Taking a non-traditional approach to rights management, Thunderbird will give producers distribution advances. "By providing producers with advances, we're able to guide them into finance and production opportunities and continue to be flexible with distribution agreements, all of which opens the door to greater possibilities," said Shepard. Giustra's investment will go a long way towards acquiring and producing future programming. "I am pleased to make this investment in Thunderbird and admire the success Tim, Michael and their team have achieved with the company during the past eight years," said Giustra. "Thunderbird will now have access to sufficient capital to focus on becoming a prominent entity in the production and distribution of television programming with a special emphasis on rights management. I look forward to moving the company to its next level of success, leveraging its independence to capitalize on global opportunities." Thunderbird will also soon unveil a new name that will better reflect its various operations. It is currently enjoying success with its TV series, "Mr. Young," which has been running on Disney XD and was recently moved to a primetime slot. The company also owns a 50% stake in the "Blade Runner" film franchise. A former investment banker, Giustra set up Lionsgate in 1997 to capitalize on the growing Vancouver film industry. He sold most of his stake six years later. He is presently a board member. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

Lab Rats Invade Disney XD

They got stuck on a broken-down bus, but married clowns Dave and Cherie Gregg were ultimately undone on The Amazing Race by... math. Tasked with calculating the average weight of a head of cattle in a pen using long division, Dave got so stuck that the cattle were eventually cleared out. "Not in a million years [did I think we would be eliminated because of math]! Not in $1 million even!" he tells TVGuide.com. Why couldn't he figure it out? And what happened to their bus? Find out below. Read More > Other Links From TVGuide.com Mark JacksonAmazing Race 20Cherie GreggDave GreggJoey LasallaKerri PaulStacy BowersWilliam Minton

Top Moments: Glee's Crash Course and Khloe and Lamar Break a Sex Swing

Brooke Mueller Charlie Sheen's ex-wife, Brooke Mueller, has been charged with felony cocaine possession with intent to distribute, TMZ reports. Mueller, 34, has been charged with one count of having more than four grams of cocaine on her and one count of having less than four grams. The charges stem from Mueller's Dec. 2 arrest in Aspen, Colo. She is also charged with assaulting a woman earlier that same evening. Charlie Sheen's ex Brooke Mueller receiving at-home treatment for addiction If found guilty of possessing more than four grams, she would face up to six years in prison. If she's found guilty of having less than four grams, she could face a maximum of 18 months in prison. Following her Dec. 2 arrest, Mueller was receiving at-home treatment for her addiction, her rep told Us Weekly in December. Mueller and Sheen were married in May 2008. She filed for divorce in November 2010, 11 months after Sheen was arrested for assaulting her in their Aspen, Colo. home. (He later plead guilty to misdemeanor assault). They have two-year-old twin sons together, Bob and Max.

Pierre Juneau dies at 89

Pierre Juneau, who introduced in key rules supporting homegrown TV and music production in Canada, died on Tuesday. He was 89.The Montreal-born Juneau began his career within the National Film Board of Canada, where he carried out a considerable role in the development of French-language production within the freely funded film studio. Whilst in the NFB from 1949-66, he held numerous management posts inside the distribution and production industries, including developing co-productions with France and Italia.Each time a separate French-language production unit was setup within the NFB in 1964, he was named the initial mind in the studio.In 1960, he co-founded Quebec's first film festival, the Montreal Worldwide Film Festival.In 1966, Juneau left the NFB and was named vice chairman in the Bureau of Broadcast Governors. couple of years later that body increased being the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission, the country's broadcast regulator. He increased being the initial-ever chairman in the CRTC in 1968 plus it was throughout his tenure as CRTC topper the regulator created the initial-ever Canadian-content rules for television and radio. These rules are believed by a lot of being significant factors inside the subsequent progression of an effective TV and music industries inside the Great White-colored North. The recommendations stipulated the television systems required to air 60% Canadian fare, and r / c required to air 30% Canadian music.In recognition of his identifying role inside the music world in Canada, the Canadian music honours were named the Juno Honours within the recognition. More youthful crowd received a Juno Award as Canadian record companies guy of year in 1971.A vintage friend of Pm Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Juneau ankled the CRTC in 1975 to simply accept position as Minister of Communications in Trudeau's government. But he required to resign within the cabinet after he lost a by-election.Juneau increased being leader of pubcaster CBC in 1982 and, while mind in the network, he aided make the country's first all-news network, Newsworld. But while heading CBC, he required to grapple with major budget cuts introduced in by Pm John Mulroney's Progressive Conservative government."He will be a great defender of Canadian content, a great defender in the public service together with an excellent defender in the political independence of CBC vis-a-vis the us government,In . mentioned Sylvain Lafrance, the prior senior V . p . of French-language services at CBC, inside an interview while using Radio-Canada website.Throughout his years as leader in the CBC, he pressed to produce the Canadian content round the network around 95%. He outdated from CBC much like Newsworld would air.Following his time at CBC, he founded the earth Radio and tv Council, a UNESCO-supported non-government organization. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Actor Russell Arms dies at 92

Singer-actor Russell Arms, who made an appearance regularly like a singer on NBC musical program "Your Hit Parade" within the nineteen fifties, died February. 13 in Hamilton, Ill. He was 92. Arms and also the other regulars around the popular Saturday-evening show, which in fact had begun on radio, carried out the week's seven most widely used tunes. After their studies at the Pasadena Playhouse, he started his showbiz career right before World war 2 when Warner Bros. signed him to some contract. He earned his feature debut in "The Guy Who Found Dinner," with Bette Davis and Monty Woolley, and made an appearance in a number of war films for that studio prior to being drafted themself. In their military service he earned training films for that Military Signal Corps and also the Military Air Forces. After coming back to Warners and showing up in many Westerns, he moved forward to radio roles. Arms were built with a relatively substantial supporting role within the 1953 Doris Day film "Through the Light from the Silvery Moon." He left "Your Hit Parade" in 1958 and subsequently did guest focus on TV for many years, showing up on "Have Gun -- Will Travel," "Rawhide," "Perry Mason," "Dragnet," "Marcus Welby, M.D.," "Mod Squad" and "The Paper Chase." Arms made his last screen appearance inside a 1985 episode of "Hardcastle and McCormick." Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com

Pilot Season: Greg Berlanti's CBS Cop Drama Pilot Collars Kevin Alejandro

Kevin Alejandro Southland and True Blood alum Kevin Alejandro has joined CBS' untitled pilot from Greg Berlanti, Deadline reports.Pilot Season: Pushing Daisies' Chi McBride to co-star in Greg Berlanti pilotFormerly known as Golden Boy, the one-hour drama chronicles one cop's meteoric rise from officer to detective to Police Commissioner. Alejandro will play the top detective who is disturbed by the new guy's arrival and plots to derail his career. He joins Chi McBride, who will play the new officer's partner.Nicholas Wootton will write and executive-produce the project alongside Berlanti, who also has set up drama pilots at Fox (Guilty) and The CW (Arrow).

Fox Sets Premiere Date for the Return of Bones

Bones Bones finally has a return date! The show will return Thursday, April 5 (9/8c) with Bones (Emily Deschanel) and Booth (David Boreanaz) at odds over plans for the upcoming birth of their daughter. Gordon Ramsay's Hotel Hell premieres on Friday, April 6 at 8/7c. In Hell, Ramsay will traverse the country to different hotels in hopes of trying to fix them up. Fox creates Tuesday night comedy block, Glee goes on long hiatus As previously announced, Glee will take a nearly two month hiatus following the Feb. 21 episode, which frees Tuesday nights up for a two-hour comedy block. Beginning March 6, Raising Hope will kick off Tuesday nights at 8/7c, followed by the return of I Hate My Teenage Daughter at 8:30/7:30c. New Girl will stay in its regular timeslot at 9/8c and Breaking In will follow at 9:30/8:30c. In other scheduling news, Touch will make its world premiere on Monday, March 19 (9/8c), while the series finale of House is slated to air Monday, May 21 (8/7c).

Performer Unions Use Electronic Innovations To Interact With Members

Performer Unions Use Electronic Innovations To Interact With Members By Frank Nestor February 9, 2012 Over the past few years, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, the Screen Actors Guild, and Actors' Equity Association have expanded the ways in which they communicate with their members. All use the social media websites Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well as innovative technology, but in unique ways.Mobilizing Through Media "Everybody has a Facebook page, but not everybody knows how to utilize it," says Leslie Simmons, the assistant director of national communications for AFTRA. The union, particularly in the last year, used social media to help its members stay informed about, or participate in, various campaigns. For instance, during the Wisconsin and Ohio labor protests in early 2011, AFTRA posted information on its Facebook page about solidarity rallies all around the country. "Even if our members couldn't go to those two states, they could still participate and show their solidarity," she explains. The union used Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to advertise several other initiatives last year, especially one for performers who act and dance in music videos. Members of the group called It's About Time have been attempting to secure a contract with major record labels, which would include fair and safe working conditions and contributions for their retirement. "They're young, energized performers and are so plugged into the social media universe; it's like a second language for them," says Simmons. AFTRA has worked with the group to give its campaign more exposure across the Web. According to Simmons, the group has been successful in garnering support from the dance and music video community: "They've had a lot of meetings to update people. A lot of times those meeting notices go out through social networking, and then they have 160 people attending a meeting." AFTRA has also been using gotomeeting.com to conduct webinars with its leaders and committee members without requiring everybody to come into the office. "We understand that our members have schedules that are very different than a nine-to-five, so if they are out on a set or on an audition, they can plug in through their smart phone and participate while waiting or on a break." Simmons adds, "We still have a lot of face-to-face interaction. That's still very important, because there is a little of a separation if you're just using social media. You have to have that one-on-one contact with people, as well, and try to find ways to integrate the two together." An Electronic Expansion "Utilizing technology increases the reach of our communications," says Pamela Greenwalt, SAG's communications executive director. "Electronic communications not only helps the union to be more efficient in a more environmentally friendly manner, it also provides more immediate communication and an easier avenue for feedback." The union regularly sends electronic-only invitations for national events, and members are responding actively, often filling them to capacity. Over the last few years, SAG has web-streamed many events, and according to Greenwalt, "thousands of members tune in at one timemany more than we would be able to host in a physical venue." The union recently partnered with the USO to raise funds for calling cards and digital communication service for American troops deployed overseas. "Less than 24 hours after we sent an e-blast to members, they responded with donations of more than $5,000," says Greenwalt. The campaign raised more than $15,000 for the USO over the holiday season, thanks to emails, Facebook, and Twitter."The entertainment industry is changing, and our aim isn't just to change with it but to help lead the way," says Greenwalt. One way SAG plans to accomplish this is through its online SAG Production Center, which allows producers to download forms and rate sheets as well as to sign agreements online. The center saves time and avoids large amounts of paperwork. Since its debut in June 2011, the production center has received more than 3,300 signatory applications from producers through its online tools. "Those who have used it have given the streamlined system rave reviews. Better still, they have generated a lot of positive word-of-mouth, sharing their experiences with other producers," says Greenwalt.SAG believes its online signatory application will help revolutionize the way unions work in the industry and plans to keep developing its capabilities. "We will continue to explore how we can expand its functionality, as well as engage our members using a variety of media in ways that don't just use technology for technology's sake but offer an effective means for empowering members," Greenwalt says.New Expectations "The changing face of technology has driven everything to be based in real time," says Doug Beebe, the national IT director at Actors' Equity Association. "There is a different expectation now. Someone used to say, 'I'll get back to you Monday morning,' but now it's 'I just sent you a message. Can you help me right now?' " Equity has been conscious of this shift to faster service and reached out to its members and staff to figure out areas to technologically improve. As a result, Actors' Equity will launch a revamp of its members-only portal some time this quarter. The union has been rebuilding its entire digital internal system and infrastructure to support the portal, which will contain and manage membership information. One of Equity's goals is to help its members communicate with the union in real time and allow people to update basic profile information rapidly and efficiently. In addition, Equity will open a new website for theatrical employers and producers. According to Beebe, the website will capture all production-related information that normally is transmitted through paper and email: "There's a lot of paperwork right now, and we're trying to streamline that into a portal that will tell us about the productions that these employers are working on quickly." Though many members of all three unions are adept with new technology, there may be some resistance from older industry professionals. Beebe acknowledges it may not be a smooth transition for everybody: "There are still letters being written in lieu of email, but I think that's sort of an act of attrition at this point. The challenge is that we do have to do a balancing act between the people who are embracing technology and those that either can't or won't." Beebe was not concerned over the possibility that some members may wish to use technology but may have difficulty with the new portal. "Our intent was that if we design it correctly, then it would not require any sort of tutorial," he says. Beebe believes that people tend to avoid help screens and often try to figure out how to use products on their own. Even though the portal will not be launched for several months, Beebe is already thinking about the future. He says, "I would call this sort of like a phase one. The portal is never a finished product. It's a living, breathing, moving, changing thing." Performer Unions Use Electronic Innovations To Interact With Members By Frank Nestor February 9, 2012 Over the past few years, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, the Screen Actors Guild, and Actors' Equity Association have expanded the ways in which they communicate with their members. All use the social media websites Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well as innovative technology, but in unique ways.Mobilizing Through Media "Everybody has a Facebook page, but not everybody knows how to utilize it," says Leslie Simmons, the assistant director of national communications for AFTRA. The union, particularly in the last year, used social media to help its members stay informed about, or participate in, various campaigns. For instance, during the Wisconsin and Ohio labor protests in early 2011, AFTRA posted information on its Facebook page about solidarity rallies all around the country. "Even if our members couldn't go to those two states, they could still participate and show their solidarity," she explains. The union used Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to advertise several other initiatives last year, especially one for performers who act and dance in music videos. Members of the group called It's About Time have been attempting to secure a contract with major record labels, which would include fair and safe working conditions and contributions for their retirement. "They're young, energized performers and are so plugged into the social media universe; it's like a second language for them," says Simmons. AFTRA has worked with the group to give its campaign more exposure across the Web. According to Simmons, the group has been successful in garnering support from the dance and music video community: "They've had a lot of meetings to update people. A lot of times those meeting notices go out through social networking, and then they have 160 people attending a meeting." AFTRA has also been using gotomeeting.com to conduct webinars with its leaders and committee members without requiring everybody to come into the office. "We understand that our members have schedules that are very different than a nine-to-five, so if they are out on a set or on an audition, they can plug in through their smart phone and participate while waiting or on a break." Simmons adds, "We still have a lot of face-to-face interaction. That's still very important, because there is a little of a separation if you're just using social media. You have to have that one-on-one contact with people, as well, and try to find ways to integrate the two together." An Electronic Expansion "Utilizing technology increases the reach of our communications," says Pamela Greenwalt, SAG's communications executive director. "Electronic communications not only helps the union to be more efficient in a more environmentally friendly manner, it also provides more immediate communication and an easier avenue for feedback." The union regularly sends electronic-only invitations for national events, and members are responding actively, often filling them to capacity. Over the last few years, SAG has web-streamed many events, and according to Greenwalt, "thousands of members tune in at one timemany more than we would be able to host in a physical venue." The union recently partnered with the USO to raise funds for calling cards and digital communication service for American troops deployed overseas. "Less than 24 hours after we sent an e-blast to members, they responded with donations of more than $5,000," says Greenwalt. The campaign raised more than $15,000 for the USO over the holiday season, thanks to emails, Facebook, and Twitter."The entertainment industry is changing, and our aim isn't just to change with it but to help lead the way," says Greenwalt. One way SAG plans to accomplish this is through its online SAG Production Center, which allows producers to download forms and rate sheets as well as to sign agreements online. The center saves time and avoids large amounts of paperwork. Since its debut in June 2011, the production center has received more than 3,300 signatory applications from producers through its online tools. "Those who have used it have given the streamlined system rave reviews. Better still, they have generated a lot of positive word-of-mouth, sharing their experiences with other producers," says Greenwalt.SAG believes its online signatory application will help revolutionize the way unions work in the industry and plans to keep developing its capabilities. "We will continue to explore how we can expand its functionality, as well as engage our members using a variety of media in ways that don't just use technology for technology's sake but offer an effective means for empowering members," Greenwalt says.New Expectations "The changing face of technology has driven everything to be based in real time," says Doug Beebe, the national IT director at Actors' Equity Association. "There is a different expectation now. Someone used to say, 'I'll get back to you Monday morning,' but now it's 'I just sent you a message. Can you help me right now?' " Equity has been conscious of this shift to faster service and reached out to its members and staff to figure out areas to technologically improve. As a result, Actors' Equity will launch a revamp of its members-only portal some time this quarter. The union has been rebuilding its entire digital internal system and infrastructure to support the portal, which will contain and manage membership information. One of Equity's goals is to help its members communicate with the union in real time and allow people to update basic profile information rapidly and efficiently. In addition, Equity will open a new website for theatrical employers and producers. According to Beebe, the website will capture all production-related information that normally is transmitted through paper and email: "There's a lot of paperwork right now, and we're trying to streamline that into a portal that will tell us about the productions that these employers are working on quickly." Though many members of all three unions are adept with new technology, there may be some resistance from older industry professionals. Beebe acknowledges it may not be a smooth transition for everybody: "There are still letters being written in lieu of email, but I think that's sort of an act of attrition at this point. The challenge is that we do have to do a balancing act between the people who are embracing technology and those that either can't or won't." Beebe was not concerned over the possibility that some members may wish to use technology but may have difficulty with the new portal. "Our intent was that if we design it correctly, then it would not require any sort of tutorial," he says. Beebe believes that people tend to avoid help screens and often try to figure out how to use products on their own. Even though the portal will not be launched for several months, Beebe is already thinking about the future. He says, "I would call this sort of like a phase one. The portal is never a finished product. It's a living, breathing, moving, changing thing."

John Goodman Opts for Silence in 'The Artist'

It seems like every time you turn on the television, see a film, listen to a commercial, or even play a video game you see or hear John Goodman. This past year alone he was on the TV shows "Treme," "Damages," and "Community." He was a voice on video game "Rage" and the animated film "Happy Feet Two," and he was in two Academy Award nominated films, "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" and "The Artist."Goodman, who admits that he never purposefully takes a break from acting, has made a name for himself as a modern day everyman, stealing scenes since the mid-1980s. He is best known for his role as Dan Conner on the TV series "Roseanne" and for his work with the Coen brothers in their films "Raising Arizona," "Barton Fink," "The Big Lebowski," and "O Brother Where Art Thou?" The New Orleans resident recently spoke to Back Stage about working on "The Artist," in which he played one of his favorite roles, and how he uses a mix of theory and rationality to create his memorable characters. Back Stage: How did you come to be cast in "The Artist"? John Goodman: Since there was no dialogue, [director] Michel Hazanavicius didn't have a conventional script, he had a scenario, printed in a black binder with all these pictures from old Hollywood. He really put a lot of love into this thing, and to me that indicated he had a degree of passion about what he wanted to do. Then I talked to him about shooting, how he was going to shoot it and where, and he sold me. And it's one of those rare things where everything he talked about showed up on the screen. Back Stage: Was acting in "The Artist" different from other films? Goodman: You know, it was and it wasn't. We had the scenario and we improvised what we needed to do. It was a little difficult [in my scenes with] Jean Dujardin because he didn't speak any English at the time. He does now; he rattles it off. And I'm never going to speak French. I flunked it in high school. But we still knew what we were talking about. We were very focused on each other and it's cool because it worked out really well on the screen. Outside of that, it was just telling the story. Back Stage: Are you surprised by how much the film has been embraced by audiences? Goodman: Not that it's been embraced by audiences, but that it's such a big deal now and people are talking about it. I thought it was special when I read it and it sure turned out that way. It's very gratifying when that happens. Back Stage: How do you normally choose your projects? Goodman: It's like if you listened to a good song there's a hook. Something that grabs you that's a little different. It says a little something that you haven't heard recently. And good dialogue. I'm a sucker for good writing.Back Stage: You've had such a varied career. What's been your favorite role? Goodman: One was Falstaff. I got to do that at The Old Globe Theater in San Diego way too long ago now. But another is [Walter in] "The Big Lebowski." That's the one that gets the most radical response from people. We had such a good time doing it and it's still fun to watch every once in a while. Back Stage: Would you say you have a specific acting method? Goodman: I'm lucky I didn't get locked into an ideology early on. I just use a mixture of everything and then add practical common sense into whatever style the piece is. A good example is "The Artist." We all tell a story, we all want to tell the truth, not to be confused with real, but the truth, the truth of the piece. That's the best way to do it. You know it in your heart and your socks when you're doing right. Back Stage: What's your method for rehearsal? Goodman: Listening. Keeping your ears open. Rehearsal is there for you to make a fool of yourself. Try anything. Throw it up against the wall. Have that desperation to make it right. I usually know I'm going to make a total ass of myself, but I jump off. Jump right into it. And then it's a refining process, but thank God for rehearsals.

Globes trial focuses on good status for dispute

The trial inside the rights for the Golden Globes focused Wednesday round the years 2001 and 2002, since the Hollywood Foreign Press Assn.'s relationship with Dick Clark Prods. increased being progressively acrimonious the ones began to know that they're losing remedies for his or her best resource. Francis LaMaina, the prior leader of Dick Clark Prods., was round the witness indicate a later date and spoke of landing a deal with NBC in 2001 to improve the network's rights for the Globes through 2011. The sale was worth $100 million, an impressive sum that was welcomed with enthusiasm with the HFPA board. In dispute is if DCP, even though it had guaranteed the NBC deal, had options to create the top that point period. LaMaina mentioned it did, with various an "extensions clause" in the previous 1993 pact that DCP states gave it the options to produce the show as extended since it showed up a broadcast agreement with NBC. The HFPA prosecuted against DCP in November 2010 after its longtime producer showed up a completely new agreement with NBC, running through 2018, without its consent. Daniel Petrocelli, the attorney representing the HFPA, pressed LaMaina on why, if he believed that DCP didn't require HFPA's greenlight to accomplish the NBC deal, he nevertheless looked for written assurances within the org it understood that it's options were valid. But LaMaina mentioned he managed it on advice of counsel as DCP's relationship while using HFPA began to sour. One flashpoint was when Dick Clark Prods. offered the business to Variety Entertainment for $136 million in the deal introduced noisy . 2002. Clark acquired greater than $100 million, and LaMaina received about $14 million for his share after cashing available alternatives. Nevertheless the HFPA were not sure in regards to the deal until it absolutely was introduced freely. Its concern, LaMaina mentioned, was that because "Variety reaches the film business, it could in some manner hinder the integrity in the Golden Globes." "It absolutely was an problem I didn't think was valid," LaMaina mentioned, adding he gave them assurances that no matter the acquisition, their key personnel would stay. But there has been further bumps inside the road. The HFPA objected if the discovered that DCP had, without its consent, talked about a deal with NBC delivering for just about any The the spanish language language-language simulcast in the Globes on Telemundo. LaMaina mentioned that based on its existing contract while using HFPA, "I believed we'd the legal right to enter this agreement without speaking on their behalf.In . Nevertheless the real fireworks showed up September 2002, when the HFPA maintained an attorney, Bryan Freedman, to deliver instructions to DCP quarrelling whether it really had options to create the show. LaMaina enlisted Bert Fields to produce a solution, warning the HFPA would face enormous damages whether or not this tried to from their agreement with DCP. Petrocelli, however, noted that Freedman's letter never threatened the HFPA would pull in the NBC deal or separate with DCP. It absolutely was essentially questioning the latter's options. The HFPA's legal team is trying to demonstrate that pre and publish the 1993 pact while using "extensions clause" was signed, DCP looked for that press org's approval. Petrocelli also noted that whenever tensions cooled, Fields sent a completely new letter asking the HFPA affirm in writing that DCP had options towards the show. Nevertheless the HFPA never signed it. Next, when DCP sent assessments for the HFPA, LaMaina incorporated a resume resume cover letter proclaiming that to cash them is always to agree that DCP had the options. Nevertheless the HFPA sent its letters, stating despite the fact that it's cashing the assessments, carrying this out meant no such factor. Contact Ted Manley at ted.manley@variety.com

Pilot Season: Paula Malcomson to Star Opposite Liev Schreiber in Showtime's Ray Donovan

Paula Malcomson Paula Malcomson continues to be cast because the female lead in Showtime's Ray Donovan pilot, Deadline.com reviews. Liev Schreiber to star in Showtime's Ray Donovan The drama stars Liev Schreiber because the titular character, an expert fixer for that wealthy and famous in La who's not able to flee their own family issues. The Deadwood and Caprica star will portray his wife Abby, a difficult Boston native who finds it hard to sit in the Hollywood lifestyle. The project originates from Southland creator Ann Biderman, who'll executive-produce together with Mark Gordon (Grey's Anatomy, Criminal Minds) and Bryan Zuriff.

Exclusive: In Plain Sight Snags Tia Carrere to see Stan's Secret [Spoiler!]

Tia Carrere We're not worth! Tia Carrere will guest-star round the approaching fifth and final season of In Plain Sight, TVGuide.com has learned exclusively. USA sets premiere date for final season of In Plain Sight The Wayne's World star, 45, may have Stan's dance instructor, Lia Hernandez. Stan (Paul Ben-Victor) and Lia also tango together just like a couple which he tries to hide the bond from his co-employees, additionally to nosy pals Mary (Mary McCormack), Marshall (Ernest Weller) and Delia (Tangie Ambrose). All the best keeping the secret! Carrere has some major dance experience- she finished sixth on Season 2 of Dwts. She's commonly known as on her behalf be employed in True Lies, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Warehouse 13. She'll compete round the year of Celebrity Apprentice, premiering Sunday, Feb. 19 on NBC. Jesse Trump on Celebrity Apprentice: This is good cast ever Carrere's episode, titled "Four Marshals together with an infant,Inch is positioned to air March 23. The best season of In Plain Sight starts Friday, March 16 at 10/9c on USA. Are you currently presently excited to find out Carrere and Ben-Victor hit the oasis?

Aaron Paul Thinks 'Die Hard' Rumors Are 'Great'

Aaron Paul is no stranger to playing second fiddle to badass bald dudes. If you haven't seen him work his magic as meth cook apprentice Jesse Pinkman on "Breaking Bad," you're seriously missing out. He can cook, he can shoot, and he can call you "bitch" better than most. It's all of these reasons (and more) that we were so pumped to hear Paul's name in the mix for "A Good Day to Die Hard," the upcoming fifth entry in the Bruce Willis-starring "Die Hard" franchise. According to reports, Paul is one of a small handful of actors being considered for the role of John McClane's son, all grown up now and ready to kick terrorist tail alongside his pops. We spoke with Paul at the Sundance Film Festival and asked him about the "Die Hard" rumors, though like a true McClane, he wouldn't buckle under our pressure. "I mean, who knows," he said, suddenly growing very cagey. "There are so many rumors out there, you know?" Paul was at Sundance this year to promote his new movie "Smashed," which he stars in opposite Mary Elizabeth Winstead herself a "Die Hard" veteran, having played McClane's daughter in the last round. Paul admitted it would be a "strange" coincidence if he ended up receiving the baton from Winstead, but he still only spoke about the possibility as a hypothetical. "I think it'd be great," said Paul. "I mean, every one of those movies does so well and they're always so much fun to watch. Who doesn't want to run around and shoot machine guns and jump out of helicopters with Bruce Willis?" The 2012 Sundance Film Festival is officially under way, and the MTV Movies team is on the ground reporting on the hottest stars and the movies everyone will be talking about in the year to come. Keep it locked with MTV Movies for everything there is to know about Sundance.

George Lucas To Retire?

Says Red Tails is his final blockbusterTake this with a pinch of salt, since we can't imagine we'll really be saying goodbye to the great man anytime in the near future. But a lengthy and fascinating profile in the NY Times sees George Lucas claiming he's planning his retirement, now that Red Tails is almost done and dusted."I'm moving away from the business, from the company, from all this kind of stuff," he says."All this kind of stuff" refers to the battle he's had to get his long-cherished WWII epic before the cameras. Turned down by every major studio, he's been forced to finance and publicise the film himself. Now he says, barring possible future Indiana Jones films, that he's withdrawing from blockbusters, and that any future projects will be small, experimental, "esoteric and screened mostly in art-houses."Lucas also says he's weary of constant criticisms of his tinkering with the Star Wars saga, making the point that he chose a path of independence, but has ended up trading studio interference for fanboy hectoring. "On the internet, all those same guys that are complaining I made changes arecompletelychanging the movie," he says. "Fine. But my movie, with my name on it, that says I did it, needs to be the way I want it. Why would I make any more [Star Wars movies] when everybody yells at you all the time and says what a terrible person you are?"Recent comments by Rick McCallum however, do suggest that Star Wars has a future in some form, and we can't imagine that Lucas wouldn't be pulling some of those strings..."Now that he's demonstrated his commercial moviemaking abilities,it's time to show his other side," says Francis Ford Coppola of his friend's retreat from the limelight. Do you agree? Give us your thoughts in the comments below.Red Tails, actually directed by Anthony Hemingway, is out in the States on January 20. Lucas' equivalent of Institute Benjamenta is, we guess, in development...[[Poll566]]

Tommy Lee Jones to 'Emporer'

JonesTommy Lee Jones will portray Gen. Douglas MacArthur opposite Matthew Fox in Peter Webber's Japan-set political thriller "Emperor," a co-production of Fellers Film and Krasnoff/Foster Entertainment. Producers announced Jones' casting Tuesday. "Tommy will bring strength, intelligence and gravitas to the portrayal of Gen. Douglas MacArthur, a legendary American hero," producer Gary Foster said. Lensing is set to begin later this month in locations including New Zealand and Japan. CAA is handling sales inside the U.S. Inspired by true events, "Emperor" is a story of love and understanding set amid the uncertainties of the days following the Japanese surrender at the end of WWII, when MacArthur, as supreme commander of the occupying forces, served as de facto ruler of Japan. Fox will play Gen. Bonner Fellers, one of MacArthur's Japan experts, who is charged with reaching a decision on an issue of historical importance: Should Emperor Hirohito be tried and hanged as a war criminal? Pic also will explore the story of Fellers' love affair with a Japanese exchange student and his quest to find her in the ravaged post-war landscape. Webber ("The Girl With a Pearl Earring") will direct from a script by David Klass and Vera Blasi. Yoko Narahashi ("The Last Samurai") and Eugene Nomura will produce with Gary Foster ("Ghost Rider") and Russ Krasnoff ("The Soloist"). Jones is represented by CAA and lawyer Bill Jacobson, while Fox is represented by Management 360, WME and lawyer Craig Jacobson. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

The 17 Most Memorable Moments in the Golden Globes

Amy Poehler and Tina Fey Our roundup of the extremely memorable moments in the Golden Globes: 17. Best Dose of Irreverence: Prankster Tina Fey surrender to photo-bombing close friendOrcompetitors Amy Poehler as her title is read among the nominees to find the best Comedy/Musical TV Actress. 16. Most Endearing Acceptance Speech:Ludovic Bource, who wins Best Film Score for your Artist, begins his speech by apologizing to become French. His charming British acceptance speech, though, handles to get rid of nothing inside the translation. "I'm better with music than words," according to him tentatively. "At this time around essentially would write a sound lesson, it may be a tap-dance number." He shuts it getting a sizable sweet hug for his family. See all the Golden Globes red-colored-colored carpet arrivals 15. Best Mattress time Voice-over: Michelle Williams wins the to find the best Comedy/Musical Actress award for My Week With Marilyn, too as with her acceptance speech, she thanks her daughter Matilda on her behalf love, bravery and exuberance, too for soldiering through six several days of mattress time tales read in their mother's Lana Turner voice. Imagine all people tales about diamonds and blondes and birthday festivities and presidents... 14. Most Non selfish Shoutout: Within the finish of Peter Dinklage's acceptance speech to find the best Supporting Actor for Wager on Thrones, he instructed audiences to "Google [Martin Henderson]," a 4-ft 6-inch Englishman who was simply playing serious injuries after being flung lower using what is seen like a dwarf-throwing-inspired incident. His attacker is not recognized. 13. Best Off-Guard Moment: Right after Bource's win, Madonna is surprised to get a Globe for Original Song ("Masterpiece," from her film W.E.), saying: "Hi. This is often a surprise. Um, um, um, I'm not French I have no excuse." It's nice to look for the Filled with Pop so flustered the Anglophile must pause to elucidate the primary distinction between "who" and "whom." Lovely! 12. Most Apropos Speech: Although Ough Gervais and Meryl Streep were moderate after losing a couple of curse words, it absolutely was The Artist star Jean Dujardin who made us wish i had been better lip site visitors. The actor, who plays quiet film star George Valentin inside the film, found the final outcome his acceptance speech to find the best Actor in the Comedy or Musical getting a mouthed and mimed thank-you to definitely certainly everyone else... in true quiet-movie style. 11. Best Sing-Along: Couple William H. Macy and Felicity Huffman sing their introduction in the nominees for Supporting Actress in the Series/Miniseries/TV Movie: "These stars did stunning work, heartbreaking true and bold/Though four goes home empty-handed, you'll collect gold. You should not be humiliated, cuz everyone did an incredible job/It is really an recognition being nominated..." They pause, have a look at each other, and supply: "Blah-blah-blah-blah-blah-blah-blah." Truth! Have a look whatsoever from the Golden Globes red-colored-colored carpet hits and misses 10. Third-Best Penis Joke in the Evening: To explain how a Best Comedy Actor nominees will be different while not so different then their figures, 30 Rock's Tina Fey states that, clearly, "Matt LeBlanc is Matt LeBlanc." Her co-presenter, Glee's Jane Lynch Lynch, replies: "And Hung's Thomas Jane... is actually a secondary school coach." They high-five and shout: "Yes! Penis joke!" Fey concludes: "Extended walk, nevertheless it was useful.Inch 9. Trashiest Jokes: Don't wreak havoc on Madge! Responding to Ough Gervais' cheeky introduction of her, through which he clears his throat and announces, "She's just... as being a virgin." Madonna replies, "Should i be like a virgin, then why don't you come the following and take action? I have not kissed a lady inside a very long time... on tv.In . 8. Most Nightmare-Inspiring Montage: Inside the Cecil B. DeMille Award montage adoring recipient Morgan Freeman, the Oscar champion appears inside an early clip within the Utility Company, just like a bare-chested Dracula covered in cleaning cleaning soap bubbles using a coffin, singing, "I like possess a bath in the casket/A casket, a casket may be the one factor/ I like possess a bath in the casket/In the casket you will not ever leave a band!Inch Try scrubbing that image from your brain! 7. Second-Best Penis Joke in the Evening: George Clooney, in accepting his Best Actor award for your Descendants, cracks: "Allow me to thank Michael Fassbender [another nominee for Shame] to consider inside the frontal-nudity responsibility that we had. Hey Michael, honestly, if you are able the game of golf similar to this, along with your hands behind your back [while he mimes what exactly can easily be known to becoming an physiological club], choose this, guy. Take action.In . 6. Best Inspiration: A trembling and flustered Octavia Spencer, who won on her behalf supporting role inside the Help, keeps her act together enough to recognition domestics getting an estimate from Dr. Martin Luther King Junior.: "All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance." 5. Lost in Translation Award: Sofia Vergara provides Modern Family's acceptance speech to find the best Comedy Series. Steven Levitan translates, explaining: "This just as one worldwide award, tonight we accept by 50 percent languages." Levitan states her appreciation stretches to "Modern Family authors that are so funny and therefore sexy." Soon, it's apparent his translation might be a little off. "Film stars, do her a large favor tonight and supply them your numbers," according to him, adding: "They may look pasty and nervous and overweight but they are the best fanatics I've ever suffered.Inch 4. Most Touching Tribute: Although Uggie the Jack Russell terrier's antics may have upstaged any lesser acceptance speech, producer Thomas Langmann was undeterred and shipped a sincere tribute. His late father Claude Berri had received an Oscar for his online video Le Poulet in 1966, but did not have the funds to visit Hollywood to find the award. It absolutely was apparent that Langmann's Best Musical or Comedy win for your Artist provided some comfort for your extended-ago missed chance. 3. Most Loving Spoof: Kaira Pitt arrives aided having a stick, as they hurt his knee recently. Later, when host Ough Gervais introduces George Clooney (as "Giorgio Cloono, for reasons uknown), he ambles within the stage employing the same stay with obtain one of the bigger laughs in the evening. "I have to go to him," Clooney jokes. "He can't ensure it is towards the bar otherwise." 2. Most Unrepentant Host: Consistent with form, Ough Gervais bit hands that given him within the opening monologue. "You obtain Britain's first comedian, hosting the second-finest honours show on America's third-finest network... The Golden Globes is to the Oscars what Kim Kardashian is always to Kate Middleton -- just a little even even louder, just a little trashier, just a little drunker plus much more easily bought... allegedly." Gervais also needed the opportunity to take a risk at Mel Gibson, promote his new Cinemax series and hang presenter The Actor-kaira Pitt round the place by asking, "Possibly you've seen The Tourist yet?" His answer? No. 1. Best Penis Joke in the Evening: Seth Rogen awoke everyone else -- and also the co-presenter Kate Beckinsale -- because he introduced, "Hi, I'm Seth Rogen and i am presently trying to cover a massive erection." Knowing by her shaking shoulders, she couldn't seem to prevent laughing next, nor could we. What were your chosen moments? Stay updated Monday at 8/7c for Golden Globes Fashion Wrap on tv Guide Network.

BAFTA selects Rising Star noms

LONDON -- The British Film and Television Academy unveiled the nominees for its audience prize, the Orange Rising Star Award, on Wednesday, with Chris O'Dowd, Adam Deacon, Chris Hemsworth, Eddie Redmayne and Tom Hiddleston up for the accolade. The nominees, which have been selected by the British public (or specifically customers of cellphone company Orange), have been whittled down from a list of eight, which interestingly saw all three female longlist nominees -- Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence and Felicity Jones -- slashed from the list. Nominations aim to recognize five international thesps whose talent has "captured the imagination of the public." The five nominees have arguably passed the "rising" stage of their career as they have all made an impact on the film biz in the past year. Irish thesp O'Dowd, who is well known in Blighty for his role on the TV program "The IT Crowd," broke into the global public eye this year with his perf in "Bridesmaids." He can next be seen in Judd Apatow's "This Is 40," with Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann. British actor Hiddleston was seen on the big screen in Kenneth Branagh's "Thor," and more recently had roles in Woody Allen's "Midnight in Paris," Steven Spielberg's "War Horse" and "The Deep Blue Sea." He just wrapped filming "The Avengers." Fellow brit Redmayne burst onto the film scene this year in "My Week With Marilyn," in which he stars alongside Michelle Williams and Judi Dench. Australian thesp Hemsworth landed the title role in "Thor," and will reprise the role in "The Avengers" this year. He is also starring in Universal's "Snow White and the Huntsman," with Kirsten Stewart, and will play Formula One driver James Hunt in Ron Howard's "Rush." Deacon is best known in the U.K. for his roles in Noel Clarke's "Kidulthood," "Adulthood" and "4,3,2,1," and this year co-wrote, helmed and toplined in Brit urban comedy "Anuvahood." Previous winners of the Rising Star Award include Tom Hardy, James McAvoy, Eva Green and Shia LaBeouf. The winner will be announced at the BAFTA Awards on Feb. 12. Contact Diana Lodderhose at diana.lodderhose@variety.com

Report: True Blood's Evan Rachel Wood Engaged to Billy Elliot Star

Evan Rachel Wood and Jamie Bell Evan Rachel Wood, known for playing Vampire Queen Sophie-Anne Leclerq on HBO's True Blood, is giving the whole engagement thing another try. The actress is reportedly engaged to British actor Jamie Bell, according to Us Weekly. Evan Rachel Wood: I date both men and women Wood, 24, and Bell, 25, have known each other since 2005 when they met shooting Green Day's "Wake Me Up When September Ends" music video. Wood was engaged once before to shock rocker Marilyn Manson but called it off in 2010, after which she and Bell got back together. Wood was spotted with a sparking ring on her finger late Saturday night in Hollywood. Bell is best known for playing the title role in the Irish dance movie Billy Elliot. He's also appeared in King Kong and voices the lead character in The Adventures of Tintin, currently in theaters.

Sci-fi encourages South African films

CAPE TOWN -- Using the wealth of 2009's "District 9" still fresh inside their minds, producers are cherry-picking South African sci-fi characteristics, which causes it to be among most widely used genres this side of Swedish crime fiction. Two high-profile book adaptations and many other sci-fi and fantasy fiction features will be in development round the region.South African producer Helena Spring ("Yesterday") just bought the film rights to "Zoo City," Lauren Beukes' 2011 Arthur C. Clarke Award champion,. a gritty urban noir fantasy of a lady that has a sloth on her behalf account back, produces email scam letters, and contains the capacity to discover lost things. When she's hired having a reclusive music producer to locate weaponry testing pop star, she hopes it's her ticket in the slum she calls home.American producer Kisha Cameron-Dingle, director in the Focus Features Africa First Online Video Program who also provides a preliminary-look deal with the studio, has scooped within the rights to Nigerian author Nneki Okorafor's 2011 World Fantasy Award champion "Who Fears Dying?," a coming-of-age fantasy story, occur a rural Africa far afterwards, where a female wizard reshapes the dystopian desert landscape -- Cameron-Dingle known to it "?'Lord in the Rings' in Africa."Kenyan Wanuri Kahiu ("In the Whisper," "Pumzi") is slated to produce and direct Who Fears Dying?" while Beukes, an experienced TV author, has first use adapt the "Zoo City" script.Cameron-Dingle and South African producer David Horler may also be developing "Tok Tokkie," a advanced Cape Town ghost thriller put together by Jenna Bass, a graduate of both Africa First and Story Camping, Focus Features' invitation-only laboratory and workshop for projects under $millions of. "Tok Tokkie" won this year's Durban FilmMart, taking home the Hubert Bals Fund Award of 5,000 ($6,700) for promising African project.Told within the POV from the ghost, "Tok Tokkie" might be the farthest along in the three projects: it's local production funding within the National Film and Video Foundation, which is trying to find more income to shoot in 2012, with Bass pointing.A number of other South African genre projects may also be showed up. The first ones to shoot will most likely be Etienne Fourie's "The Windmill," an appreciation story of a choose couple of of aging pals who identify the water pumped in to a pond with a classic windmill maintains youth, only temporarily, with unforeseen effects. ZenHQ Films produces. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

That Which Was the final Movie You Viewed this year?

Happy Year! When you rub that hangover from your eyes, Moviefone has the last little bit of 2011 to go over (before the Golden Globes, SAG Honours and Academy awards, natch): that which was the final movie you viewed this year? For this writer, it had been 'Role Models.' The David Wain-directed comedy broadcast on Forex throughout the mid-day on New Year's Eve, and only agreed to be as funny while you remember -- without swear words. A apparently bizarre mix -- "Sure, Paul Rudd and Stifler will act as a comedy team," stated someone -- 'Role Models' is uproarious and sweet. If you do not such as the ending, when Rudd sings "Janet" to Elizabeth Banks and her whispering eye, you are made from stone. Anyway! That which was the final movie you saw this year? Something in theaters? Something in your own home? Something in your phone? Tell us! [Photo: WireImage] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook