Kirsten Niehuus Elected as President of Powerful German Federal Film Board, the First Woman to Hold the Role

The inaugural Hollywood & Horror event, hosted by Variety, brought together top producers and creatives in Los Angeles to celebrate the art of spooky storytelling. With a keynote from Blumhouse CEO Jason Blum, the event highlighted the significant impact of genre storytelling in today's entertainment landscape. This gathering not only showcases the creativity in horror but also emphasizes the growing importance of this genre in film and television, making it a pivotal moment for fans and creators alike.

Samantha Eggar, the talented English actress known for her Oscar-nominated role in 'The Collector' and memorable performances in 'Doctor Dolittle' and 'The Brood,' has passed away at the age of 86 in Los Angeles. Her contributions to cinema, particularly in the thriller and horror genres, have left a lasting impact, and her accolades, including a Golden Globe and a Cannes Film Festival award, highlight her exceptional talent. This news is significant as it marks the loss of a remarkable figure in film history.

Warner Bros. Discovery has taken a strong stance against calls for a boycott of Israeli film institutions, emphasizing that such actions would conflict with their internal policies promoting inclusivity and respect. This commitment is crucial as it highlights the company's dedication to creating a supportive environment for all its employees and collaborators, reinforcing the importance of diversity in the film industry.

The official US trailer for Brazil's 'The Secret Agent' has been released, showcasing the film's acclaim and its upcoming US theater debut in November. Directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho and featuring Wagner Moura, the film has already garnered significant recognition, winning Best Actor and Best Director at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. This release is particularly exciting as it arrives during awards season, highlighting the film's potential impact on audiences and critics alike.

The trailer for 'The Secret Agent,' Brazil's entry for the Oscars, has just been released by Neon. Directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, the film has already garnered significant acclaim, winning Best Director for Filho and Best Actor for Wagner Moura at this year's Cannes Film Festival. This buzz around the film not only highlights Brazil's cinematic talent but also sets the stage for its potential success in the upcoming awards season.

Great news for fans of 'Splinter Cell: Deathwatch'! The animated series has been renewed for a second season at Netflix, just a day after its premiere on October 14. This renewal highlights the show's strong reception and Netflix's commitment to expanding its animated offerings. With the first season already generating buzz, viewers can look forward to more thrilling episodes that continue the story.

In the latest episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, hosts Adam B. Vary and Kate Aurthur delve into the creative minds of Matt and Ross Duffer, the brothers behind the hit series 'Stranger Things.' As they discuss the final season, listeners gain insights into the show's evolution and its cultural impact. Additionally, the episode features a conversation with French YouTuber Inoxtag, who is making waves in the digital space. This episode is significant as it not only celebrates a beloved series but also highlights the intersection of traditional media and new digital influencers.

Variety has unveiled its 2025 Artisans to Watch, highlighting talented individuals behind some of the most talked-about films of the awards season. This year's list features a diverse group, including the songwriter for 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' and the assistant art director for 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' Recognizing these artisans is crucial as it not only celebrates their hard work but also sheds light on the creative forces that contribute to the film industry, often behind the scenes.

Rod Wave is addressing his reputation as a 'sad artist' while teasing his upcoming album. Known for his emotional music, he wants to shift the narrative around his artistry. This matters because it shows his growth as an artist and his desire to connect with fans on a more uplifting level, potentially broadening his appeal.

The new spinoff 'Boston Blue' has fans buzzing as it picks up where 'Blue Bloods' left off, focusing on Danny Reagan, played by Donnie Wahlberg. With the series premiere titled 'Faith and Family,' viewers are eager to see how the Reagan family dynamics evolve, especially with the introduction of long-distance relationships. This spinoff not only satisfies the curiosity of loyal fans but also opens up new storylines that could deepen character development and explore fresh themes, making it a significant addition to the franchise.

Arnold Schwarzenegger recently criticized California's Prop 50 on 'Real Time with Bill Maher,' calling it a 'big scam.' His comments come as voters prepare for the midterm elections, highlighting concerns over the bill's implications amid ongoing debates about election integrity and redistricting. Schwarzenegger's stance reflects a growing unease among some voters about the potential impact of such measures on fair representation, making this a significant topic as the elections approach.

A fun new quiz from BuzzFeed invites you to watch some popular TV shows from the 2010s and promises to guess your favorite ice cream flavor based on your choices. This playful interaction not only taps into nostalgia for a beloved era of television but also engages readers in a lighthearted way, making it a delightful way to reminisce about the shows that shaped pop culture during that time.

Sir David Attenborough has made history by becoming the oldest winner of a Daytime Emmy at the age of 99, surpassing the previous record held by Dick Van Dyke. This achievement not only highlights Attenborough's remarkable career and contributions to nature documentaries but also serves as an inspiring reminder that passion and dedication can lead to recognition at any age.

Prince Andrew has decided to step back from using his royal titles, including the Duke of York, a move that raises questions about who will inherit this title next. This decision, announced on October 17, reflects ongoing discussions within the royal family about the future of titles and roles in the monarchy. It matters because it highlights the evolving nature of royal responsibilities and public perception, especially in light of recent controversies surrounding Prince Andrew.