LISTEN: Los Angeles Film School Accused of Massive Student Loan Fraud; Scopely Banks Mobile Gaming Moolah

The Duffer Brothers, creators of 'Stranger Things', recently shared exciting news about their new partnership with Paramount during an event in Los Angeles. This deal marks a significant shift as their company, Upside Down Pictures, transitions from Netflix to Paramount for a four-year exclusive agreement covering movies, television, and streaming. The brothers expressed their long-held dream of theatrical releases, which adds a thrilling dimension to their future projects. This move not only highlights their creative ambitions but also signals a new era for their storytelling, promising fans even more captivating content.

Variety is excited to announce its first-ever Hollywood & Horror event on October 15 in Los Angeles, featuring keynote speaker Jason Blum of Blumhouse. This cocktail evening will celebrate the excellence in horror entertainment and the passionate fandom that surrounds this growing genre. The event also aligns with the release of Variety's inaugural Horror Impact Report on October 8, which will honor key contributors to the horror industry. This gathering not only highlights the significance of horror in film and television but also fosters community among fans and creators.

Scarlett Johansson is set to receive the Variety Legend & Groundbreaker Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival on October 19. This prestigious honor celebrates artists who have made significant contributions to the film industry and have shown resilience over time. Johansson's recognition comes not only for her impressive acting career but also for her recent directorial debut, marking a new chapter in her artistic journey. This award highlights her influence and the barriers she has broken in Hollywood, making it a significant moment for both her and the industry.

Scopely, a billion-dollar mobile game company, is making waves in the gaming industry with its popular titles like 'Monopoly Go!' and 'Pokémon Go.' Founded in 2011, Scopely is not just about fun games; it's shaping the future of mobile gaming through innovative intellectual properties and seamless distribution. This matters because as mobile gaming continues to grow, companies like Scopely are leading the charge, influencing how games are developed and enjoyed worldwide.

Hlynur Pálmason's new film 'Joan of Arc' has just released its official trailer ahead of its world premiere at the San Sebastián Film Festival. This 62-minute film is generating excitement as Pálmason, a favorite at the festival, showcases his talent once again. The film's debut in the Zabaltegi Tabakalera section highlights the festival's commitment to innovative storytelling, making it a significant event for both the director and film enthusiasts.

Denise Parkinson has taken on a significant role at Variety, where she will lead international business efforts, focusing on development and marketing across global markets. Based in London, her extensive experience in entertainment and media will be crucial as she drives Variety's initiatives in the U.K. and beyond. This move is important not only for Parkinson's career but also for Variety as it expands its influence in the competitive international landscape.

Two former executives have filed a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Film School, alleging that the institution has been running a massive scam involving fake job placements for its graduates. This serious accusation raises concerns about the integrity of the school and the impact on students who invested in their education, only to be misled about job opportunities. The case highlights the need for accountability in educational institutions and the protection of students' interests.

Variety magazine has been closely covering Jimmy Kimmel's recent suspension, suggesting that the publication is supportive of him during this time. The coverage highlights Kimmel's significance in the comedy world, especially as his time-off comes to an end. This situation is noteworthy as it reflects the media's role in shaping public perception of Kimmel and his comedic influence, particularly in the context of political discussions.

Variety has unveiled its 10 Actors to Watch for 2025, highlighting emerging talents like Milly Alcock from 'Supergirl' and Chase Infiniti from 'One Battle.' This annual list, which has previously recognized over 35 Academy Award winners, showcases actors poised for breakout roles in the upcoming awards season. It's exciting to see fresh faces gaining recognition, as they represent the future of cinema and bring new perspectives to storytelling.

In today's episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, Owen Gleiberman, Variety's chief film critic, discusses why Paul Thomas Anderson's new drama 'One Battle at a Time' resonates deeply in our current climate. This film captures the essence of our struggles and triumphs, making it a significant piece for audiences today. Additionally, Jem Aswad reflects on the influential career of Sylvia Rhone, celebrating her contributions to the music industry as she announces her latest endeavors. This conversation highlights the intersection of film and music, showcasing how both art forms respond to and shape our societal moments.

NBCUniversal has issued a warning to YouTube TV subscribers about the potential blackout of its programming due to ongoing disputes over carriage fees and terms. This situation is compounded by a similar standoff with TelevisaUnivision, with both companies' agreements set to expire soon. This matters because it highlights the increasing tensions in the pay-TV industry, which could affect millions of viewers who rely on these services for their entertainment.

YouTube TV subscribers are facing potential disruptions as NBCUniversal has warned that its networks might be removed from the service due to a failure to agree on a new distribution contract. This situation follows recent disputes with other major networks like Fox Corp. and TelevisaUnivision, highlighting ongoing challenges in the streaming landscape. The outcome of this negotiation is crucial for viewers who rely on YouTube TV for access to NBCU's popular channels.

Microsoft has announced the pricing for its new Xbox Ally handheld gaming consoles, with the premium version costing nearly $1,000. The standard ROG Xbox Ally is priced at $599.99 in the U.S., while the upgraded ROG Xbox Ally X is even more expensive. This pricing strategy raises concerns about accessibility for gamers, especially in a market where affordability is key. The high cost could limit the console's reach and impact its success in a competitive gaming landscape.

The recent protests and petitions surrounding Jimmy Kimmel highlight the increasingly politicized atmosphere in Hollywood. This situation raises important questions about whether this fervor will influence policy decisions or the content produced in the industry. The passing of Robert Redford, a significant figure known for his political activism as much as his acting, adds a layer of irony to the current climate, reminding us of the deep connections between art and activism.

Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline has been seen getting cozy with Greek Prince Constantine-Alexios in New York City, sparking excitement among fans. This connection not only highlights the intersection of Hollywood and royalty but also adds a touch of glamour to both their lives. As public interest in celebrity relationships continues to grow, this budding romance could lead to more media attention and public appearances, making it a noteworthy development in the entertainment world.

This fun quiz invites fans of the musical 'Wicked' to discover which character they resemble based on their color preferences. By choosing images in various colors, participants can find out if they align more with the misunderstood Elphaba or the bubbly Glinda. It's a lighthearted way to engage with the beloved story and connect with fellow fans, making it a delightful activity for anyone who loves the show.