Hamnet to Sinners: 12 films to look out for as Oscars race begins

Amy Poehler has expressed her frustration with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for undervaluing comedic performances, calling it 'some hot bullsh**' during her Good Hang podcast. This criticism highlights a broader issue in the film industry where comedy is often overlooked during prestigious awards like the Oscars. Poehler's remarks resonate with many who feel that humor plays a vital role in cinema and deserves recognition.

Reese Witherspoon recently shared her insights on the future of filmmaking, suggesting it will undergo significant changes due to evolving audience attention spans. In an interview with The New York Times, she emphasized the need for Hollywood to adapt to these shifts, especially with the rise of social media influencing how viewers consume content. This perspective is crucial as it highlights the industry's need to innovate and connect with audiences in new ways, ensuring that storytelling remains relevant and engaging.

Reese Witherspoon recently opened up about a role she was advised against taking in her 20s and 30s, highlighting the challenges women face in Hollywood. Her insights shed light on the importance of representation and the need for diverse roles, especially for women with real-life experiences that can enrich their performances. This conversation is crucial as it encourages aspiring actors to pursue their passions despite industry pressures.

The article critiques the hypocrisy prevalent in Hollywood, particularly focusing on Pedro Pascal. It highlights the contradiction between the industry's promotion of gun control while producing violent content. The piece argues that this duplicity reflects a broader issue within the entertainment industry, where tolerance is preached but not practiced, especially against those who dissent from mainstream political views. This matters because it raises questions about authenticity and accountability in a powerful cultural sector.

Troy Kotsur is optimistic that his role as a mobster in Netflix's 'Black Rabbit' will pave the way for more opportunities for deaf actors in Hollywood. Having made history as the first male deaf actor to win an Oscar for his performance in 'CODA', Kotsur's portrayal of Joe Mancuso, a character in the criminal underworld, highlights the potential for diverse roles for deaf performers. This is significant not only for representation but also for breaking stereotypes in the film industry.

The rise of generative artificial intelligence is creating significant shifts in Hollywood, as big tech faces increasing pressure from emerging AI companies. This transformation could redefine business practices and ownership structures in the entertainment industry, making it crucial for stakeholders to adapt to these changes. Understanding how AI will influence content creation and distribution is essential for anyone involved in Hollywood.

The new movie 'The Senior' tells the inspiring story of Mike Flynt, showcasing how a pivotal change in direction can lead to remarkable second acts in life, much like in football. Produced by former pro athlete Mike Ciardi, the film resonates with anyone who believes in the power of resilience and reinvention. It highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and demonstrates that it's never too late to pursue your dreams, making it a significant watch for those seeking motivation.

Gregg Araki, a notable figure from the '80s and '90s, expresses his amazement at how much easier it has become to make movies today, yet he acknowledges the challenges artists face in a world filled with turmoil. As he prepares for a screening of his film 'Mysterious Skin' at the Academy Museum, Araki highlights the scarcity of unique voices in Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of supporting new filmmakers. His insights remind us that while technology has advanced, the artistic landscape remains complex and requires resilience.

JAFF Market has teamed up with Cinepoint to track the impressive rise of Indonesia's box office, where local films are now outperforming Hollywood productions. This partnership, announced at the Asian Contents & Film Market in Busan, highlights a significant shift in the film industry, showcasing the growing strength of domestic cinema. This is important as it not only reflects changing audience preferences but also boosts the local economy and encourages more investment in Indonesian storytelling.

Sylvester Stallone is not ready to part ways with his iconic character Rambo, even after more than 40 years since 'First Blood' debuted. Recently, he pitched the idea of using sophisticated AI technology to de-age himself for a Rambo prequel, especially with Noah Centineo in talks for the project. This move highlights Stallone's commitment to the franchise and his willingness to embrace new technology in storytelling, which could resonate well with fans and potentially attract a new audience.

David E. Kelley, a prominent Hollywood writer and producer, is making a bold statement by continuing to film his projects in California despite the challenges posed by runaway production and recent fires. This decision not only supports the local economy but also highlights Kelley's commitment to the community that has nurtured his career. His choice to stay in L.A. serves as an encouraging reminder of the resilience of the film industry in the face of adversity.

Jay Leno has publicly supported Jimmy Kimmel after Kimmel's indefinite suspension by ABC, emphasizing the importance of free speech. Leno's comments come during a ceremony honoring Chris Wallace, highlighting the ongoing conversation about freedom of expression in entertainment. This support from a prominent figure like Leno not only reinforces Kimmel's stance but also sparks broader discussions about the role of comedy and free speech in media.

Paramount+ is set to premiere 'Red Alert,' a limited series that dramatizes the tragic events of the October 7 attacks in Israel, two years after the coordinated Hamas assaults that resulted in significant loss of life and hostages. This four-part series aims to shed light on the real stories of those affected by this devastating event, making it a poignant reminder of the impact of terrorism on individuals and communities. The series not only serves as a tribute to the victims but also sparks important conversations about security and resilience in the face of such tragedies.

A fun new quiz on BuzzFeed invites readers to watch a horror movie from each decade and challenges them to guess their first initial based on their choices. This interactive content not only entertains but also taps into nostalgia, making it a great way for fans of the genre to engage with their favorite films while sharing a light-hearted experience with friends.

Exciting news for fans of Jackie Chan! Discussions are underway for a sequel to his latest action thriller, 'The Shadow's Edge,' which is making waves at the Busan International Film Festival. Directed by Larry Yang and produced by Victoria Hon, the film has dominated the China box office for four weekends straight. This sequel could bring more thrilling adventures and showcase Chan's incredible talent to a global audience, making it a significant development in the film industry.

Tom Holland recently experienced a mild concussion while filming 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day,' prompting a temporary pause in production. This precautionary measure ensures his health and safety, allowing him to recover before returning to the set. The collaboration between Sony and Marvel Studios continues to generate excitement for the film, and fans are hopeful for Holland's swift recovery.

Miyake Sho, the acclaimed Japanese writer-director, is making waves at the Busan International Film Festival with his film 'Two Seasons, Two Strangers.' This film, which adapts the works of the legendary manga artist Tsuge Yoshiharu, showcases a unique blend of storytelling that resonates with audiences. Winning the prestigious Locarno Golden Leopard has set high expectations, and this adaptation promises to deliver a fresh perspective on Tsuge's classic tales. It's a significant moment for both Miyake and the festival, highlighting the importance of manga in cinema.

Filming for 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' has been temporarily halted after Tom Holland suffered a mild concussion on set in Glasgow. While he was briefly hospitalized, sources indicate that he is expected to return to filming soon. This incident highlights the physical demands of action roles and the importance of safety on set, ensuring that actors can perform at their best without compromising their health.