Jesse Plemons & Cole Escola To Star In ‘Jonty’ At A24; Lorene Scafaria Directing From Script By ‘Succession’s Jesse Armstrong, Sam Bain

Dwayne Johnson's latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' directed by Benny Safdie, has received a warm reception, including a 15-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. This wrestling drama is generating significant awards buzz, positioning Johnson as a potential Oscar contender for Best Actor. The film's success could mark a new era for high-profile wrestling films, with TKO President Mark Shapiro highlighting the wealth of untold stories in the wrestling world. This development is exciting for fans and the industry alike, as it could lead to more compelling narratives in the genre.

The highly anticipated horror film 'Bring Her Back' from A24's Philippou Brothers is set to premiere on HBO Max on October 3, following a substantial 126-day theatrical run. This marks an exciting moment for fans of the genre, as it showcases the growing trend of films transitioning from theaters to streaming platforms, allowing wider access to quality content. The film's release is not just a win for horror enthusiasts but also highlights the evolving landscape of film distribution.

Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning are set to star in a new legal thriller series titled 'Discretion,' produced by A24. This exciting project is based on an upcoming short story by Chandler Baker, who will also adapt her work for television. The collaboration between these talented actresses and the renowned production company promises to deliver a gripping narrative that could captivate audiences. This series is significant not only for its star power but also for showcasing fresh storytelling in the legal drama genre.

Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning are set to reunite for a new legal series titled 'Discretion,' written by Chandler Baker, known for her work on 'The Husbands.' This collaboration marks another exciting project for the duo, who previously starred together in Sofia Coppola's 'The Beguiled' and the sci-fi rom-com 'How To Talk To Girls.' Their partnership continues to generate buzz in the entertainment industry, showcasing their strong on-screen chemistry and talent.

James Cromwell, known for his roles in films like Babe and shows like Succession, has long been a vocal activist. Recently, he made headlines by protesting surcharges on vegan milks at a Starbucks in Manhattan, highlighting his commitment to animal rights and social justice. Cromwell's actions remind us of the importance of standing up for our beliefs, especially in a world where corporate practices often prioritize profit over people and ethics.

Young Mazino and Stephen Root have joined the cast of A24's upcoming thriller 'October', directed by Jeremy Saulnier. The film is generating excitement as it expands its ensemble with new talent.

Editor’s Note: This news is significant as it highlights the growing interest in A24 films, known for their unique storytelling and strong performances. The addition of talented actors like Mazino and Root suggests that 'October' could be a noteworthy release in the thriller genre.

Stanley Simons has joined the cast of Jeremy Saulnier's upcoming film 'October' at A24, alongside Cory Michael Smith and others. This marks Simons' return to A24 after his previous role in 'The Iron Claw'.

Editor’s Note: This news is exciting for fans of both Stanley Simons and Jeremy Saulnier, as it highlights the collaboration between talented actors and a renowned director. A24 is known for producing unique films, and 'October' promises to be another intriguing addition to their lineup.

Alice Birch, known for her work on 'Succession' and 'Normal People', has written a new play exploring masculinity and the manosphere. She describes the writing process as painful and challenging.

Editor’s Note: This play is significant as it tackles complex themes around masculinity, reflecting contemporary societal issues. Birch's perspective as a female playwright adds depth to the conversation about men's roles and identities today.

A24 has released a new featurette for 'The Smashing Machine,' directed by Benny Safdie. The film, which premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival and won Best Director, explores themes of love, winning, and loss. It will be in theaters this October.

Editor’s Note: 'The Smashing Machine' is significant as it showcases Benny Safdie's solo directorial effort, highlighting his creative vision apart from his brother. Winning at a prestigious festival like Venice adds to its anticipation, making it a must-watch for film enthusiasts.

Jon Stewart's latest episode of 'The Daily Show' takes a sharp jab at the current state of media freedom, especially after ABC's decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel's show. By presenting a satirical version of a government-approved talk show, Stewart highlights the troubling trend where the First Amendment seems to hinge on being 'nice' to the president. This matters because it raises critical questions about censorship and the role of comedy in political discourse, reminding viewers of the importance of a free press.

Jon Stewart made a triumphant return to host The Daily Show, bringing humor to the recent political turmoil following Jimmy Kimmel's suspension. Kimmel faced backlash for his comments about Charlie Kirk's killer, prompting FCC chair Brendan Carr to threaten Disney's ABC network. Stewart's appearance not only provided a comedic take on the situation but also highlighted the ongoing challenges in late-night television, making it a significant moment for fans and the industry alike.

In a recent article, the author highlights 14 Disney villains who deserve more recognition for their complexity and charm. These characters, often overshadowed by heroes, bring depth to the stories and resonate with audiences in unique ways. By shedding light on these underrated figures, the piece encourages fans to appreciate the artistry and storytelling behind these iconic roles, reminding us that even villains can have compelling narratives.

Disney is currently facing internal dissent following the suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. As discussions about his potential return continue, executives are engaged in virtual meetings to address the situation. This matter is significant as it highlights the tensions within the company and the impact of Kimmel's absence on their programming.

Stephen Baldwin is thrilled about his daughter Hailey Bieber's remarkable achievement with her beauty brand, Rhode Skin, which recently sold to e.l.f. Beauty for a staggering $1 billion. This milestone not only highlights Hailey's entrepreneurial spirit but also sets a new standard in the beauty industry, showcasing how young entrepreneurs can make significant impacts. It's a proud moment for the Baldwin family and an inspiring story for aspiring business owners everywhere.

Busan's Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) is set to launch exciting new programs this year, marking its 20th edition. With around 2,700 industry professionals expected to attend, ACFM aims to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in Asia's film and TV sectors. This initiative not only highlights the market's commitment to innovation but also reflects the growing importance of regional cooperation in the entertainment industry, making it a significant event for professionals and fans alike.