‘Knives Out’ Director Rian Johnson Says He’s Taking Break From Netflix Franchise To Write Original Script

As the Oscars gear up for their 98th edition, the Academy is finally recognizing the vital role of casting directors with a new award. At Deadline's Contenders London event, veteran casting director Des Hamilton shared insights and humor about the unique challenges of each project, highlighting the expertise that comes with experience in the industry. This recognition is significant as it underscores the importance of casting in filmmaking, a crucial element that shapes the success of films.

Noah Baumbach's latest film, 'Jay Kelly,' featuring George Clooney, explores the human side of a Hollywood superstar grappling with the fragility of fame and privilege. During the Deadline Contenders London event, Baumbach emphasized the importance of seeing movie stars reflect our own experiences and struggles, making the film relatable despite its glamorous setting. This perspective not only highlights the depth of Clooney's character but also resonates with audiences seeking authenticity in storytelling.

At the Contenders London panel, Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, and Kerry Condon shared their experiences working on Clint Bentley's film 'Train Dreams,' which is based on Denis Johnson's celebrated novella. The film, which debuted at Sundance, has garnered attention for its rich storytelling and historical depth. Netflix's acquisition of the film highlights its potential to reach a wider audience, making it a significant addition to the streaming platform's lineup. This project not only showcases the talents of its cast but also brings a beloved literary work to life, resonating with both fans of the novella and new viewers.

Rian Johnson, the creative mind behind the Knives Out series, recently shared exciting insights about the upcoming third film, 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.' During the Contenders London event, he revealed that this installment will embrace a more traditional Agatha Christie-style mystery, setting it apart from its predecessors. This shift not only highlights Johnson's versatility as a director but also promises to engage fans with a fresh narrative approach, making it a highly anticipated release for mystery lovers.

The film industry is buzzing as the Contenders Film: London event kicks off the movie awards season, showcasing the year's most anticipated films. With 2025 promising a plethora of cinematic releases, this annual gathering is crucial for filmmakers and audiences alike, as it sets the stage for the awards race and highlights the best in cinema. It's an exciting time for movie lovers, as they get a glimpse of what to expect in the coming months.

Keira Knightley recently shared her excitement about the upcoming Netflix thriller 'The Woman in Cabin 10,' directed by Simon Stone. He noted that the script evokes a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic thrillers that are rarely made today. Knightley also expressed her enthusiasm for playing a role typically reserved for men, highlighting a shift in representation in film. This project not only showcases her versatility as an actress but also signals a broader trend towards more diverse storytelling in the industry, making it a significant development for both audiences and filmmakers.

The recent MIA Market in Rome has concluded its 11th edition with impressive attendance, drawing over 2,800 participants from 64 countries, matching the record set in 2024. This event highlights the growing optimism in the drama business and the film industry as a whole, especially with Netflix celebrating a decade in Italy. The strong turnout signifies a vibrant market and a positive outlook for future collaborations and productions, making it a pivotal moment for industry professionals.

Ted Sarandos and Guillermo del Toro have announced an exciting new stop-motion studio at France's Gobelins school, a hub for animation talent. This initiative not only highlights the importance of traditional animation techniques but also emphasizes the duo's belief that AI cannot replicate human creativity. By investing in this studio, they aim to foster a new generation of animators and storytellers, ensuring that the art of stop-motion continues to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Netflix has secured the rights to an exciting new AI thriller directed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, which has been generating buzz since last December. The film will also feature Rachel McAdams, an Oscar-nominated actress known for her impressive roles. This partnership highlights Netflix's commitment to innovative storytelling and showcases its ability to attract top talent in the industry, making it a significant development for both the platform and fans of thrilling cinema.

In a recent Netflix film, Keira Knightley portrays a fearless journalist in 'The Woman in Cabin 10,' drawing comparisons to real-life Guardian reporter Nick Davies. The film raises questions about the glamorization of journalism in movies versus the reality faced by reporters. This exploration is significant as it highlights the challenges and ethical dilemmas journalists encounter, making audiences reflect on the true nature of investigative reporting.

Aryan Khan is making waves with his directorial debut, 'The Ba***ds of Bollywood,' a seven-episode series on Netflix that dives into the complexities of nepotism and ambition in the film industry. This bold and entertaining project showcases his unique perspective and creativity, marking a significant shift from his life in the spotlight to a more behind-the-scenes role. It's exciting to see how he blends genres while maintaining a self-deprecating yet respectful tone, making it a noteworthy addition to the streaming landscape.

Netflix is celebrating its ten-year anniversary in Italy, and it's not just about the milestone. Eleonora Andreatta, the VP of Original Content for Italy, highlights how the platform has challenged industry stereotypes and broken taboos, paving the way for more authentic local storytelling. This matters because it shows how streaming services can influence cultural narratives and provide a voice to diverse stories that resonate with audiences.

UFC Fight Night Rio is set to be an exciting event as Brazilian fighter Charles Oliveira faces off against Poland's Mateusz Gamrot in a highly anticipated lightweight matchup. Taking place on October 11 at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro, this event not only showcases top-tier MMA talent but also highlights the vibrant culture of Brazil. Fans can look forward to an electrifying atmosphere as these two skilled fighters compete for victory, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.

Fans of 'The Passion of the Christ' are disappointed to learn that Jim Caviezel and Monica Bellucci will not return for the sequel, 'The Resurrection of Christ.' Their iconic portrayals of Jesus and Mary Magdalene left a lasting impact, and their absence raises questions about the direction of the new film. This news matters because it highlights the challenges of recasting beloved characters and the expectations that come with a sequel to such a significant film.

Bradley Cooper is making waves in Hollywood as he directs Will Arnett in the upcoming film 'Is This Thing On?' This project marks a significant moment for both actors, who first met as aspiring talents in New York over two decades ago. Additionally, Cooper is set to star alongside Margot Robbie in the much-anticipated 'Ocean’s Eleven' prequel. This news is exciting not only for fans of these talented actors but also for the film industry, as it showcases the evolution of their careers and the collaborative spirit that drives creative projects.

Ari Fletcher recently opened up about her past obsession with extravagant jewelry, expressing embarrassment over her choices. This candid reflection sparked a wave of humorous responses from social media users, who shared their own funny takes on the trend. The lighthearted banter highlights how relatable and human it is to look back on past fashion choices with a mix of nostalgia and humor, making it a fun moment for online communities.

In a recent on-air confrontation, Alexis Ohanian stood up against TV host Stephen A. Smith for his negative comments about Serena Williams. This moment is significant as it highlights the importance of defending athletes against unfair criticism and showcases Ohanian's support for his wife, reinforcing the need for respect in sports commentary.

Jeremih recently reached out to Funny Marco via direct message to discuss the lyrics of his popular 'Birthday' song. This interaction highlights the often-overlooked details in songwriting and how artists engage with their work and fans. It’s a reminder of the creative process behind music and the conversations it can spark.