‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ Star Viola Prettejohn on Standing Ovation Tears and Why She’d Follow Amanda Seyfried to the Promised Land: ‘She’s Quite Entrancing!’

Saudi Arabia has made a significant move by selecting 'Hijra,' directed by Shahad Ameen, as its entry for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Oscars. This female-focused drama, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival and won the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film, tells the story of a 12-year-old girl named Janna. This selection not only highlights the growing recognition of Saudi cinema on the global stage but also emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling in the film industry.

Netflix is expanding the cast of its upcoming series 'Extraction' by adding 11 new members, including notable actors like Sacha Dhawan and Ross McCall. This move not only enhances the show's appeal but also builds anticipation among fans who are eager to see how these new talents will contribute to the storyline. With Omar Sy leading the cast, the series promises to deliver exciting performances and engaging narratives, making it a highly anticipated release.

Kate McKinnon has been cast as Aphrodite in Season 3 of 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians,' bringing her comedic talent to the role of the Greek goddess of love and beauty. This addition is exciting for fans, as McKinnon's unique style promises to add a fresh dynamic to the series. Her character's ability to change appearance based on perception adds depth to the storyline, and viewers are eager to see how this will unfold alongside Percy Jackson, played by Walker Scobell.

Netflix's new series 'Extraction' is generating excitement as it rounds out its cast with notable talents like Sacha Dhawan, Ross McCall, and Pip Torrens. This diverse lineup promises to bring depth and intrigue to the series, which is already highly anticipated. The inclusion of such experienced actors suggests that 'Extraction' could deliver a compelling narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of thrilling dramas.

Fifth Season has announced an exciting multi-year partnership with Picturestart, led by Erik Feig. This collaboration will enhance Picturestart's capabilities by providing additional shared services in business affairs, finance, and production. It also promises to boost co-productions in film and television, which is significant for both companies as they aim to expand their creative reach and impact in the industry.

At the Aspen Institute Latinos and Society gala, actor Esai Morales shared an emotional reflection on his 40-year journey in Hollywood, emphasizing themes of resilience and cultural pride. His heartfelt speech resonated with many, highlighting the importance of Latino unity in the entertainment industry. Meanwhile, Pepe Aguilar celebrated the authenticity of music, reinforcing the significance of staying true to one's roots. This event not only honors individual achievements but also fosters a sense of community and pride among Latino artists, making it a pivotal moment for representation in Hollywood.

The upcoming release of 'The Black Phone 2' is generating buzz as it aims for a debut between $23 to $29 million, which could help lift Blumhouse's recent box office struggles. Despite previous tracking inaccuracies, the studio is cautiously estimating an opening of around $18 million. This sequel, featuring Ethan Hawke reprising his role as the Grabber, is significant as it reflects the ongoing challenges in the horror genre during a sluggish October, making its performance crucial for future releases.