Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival To Host Top Oscar Contenders, Scorsese Docuseries, Honor Filmmakers Jon Alpert, Geeta Gandbhir

A new documentary celebrates the 50th anniversary of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' exploring its origins and the reasons behind its lasting appeal. This cult classic continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the power of community and creativity in film. Additionally, Scarlett Johansson makes her directorial debut with 'Eleanor The Great,' featuring the talented 95-year-old June Squibb, marking a significant moment in both their careers. This weekend also sees the release of India's Oscar selection, 'Homebound,' produced by Martin Scorsese, highlighting the diverse cinematic offerings available.

Jennifer Lawrence is set to receive the honorary Donostia Award at the San Sebastian Film Festival, where she will also showcase her latest film, 'Die My Love.' During a press conference, she shared how Martin Scorsese encouraged her to take on the dual role of star and producer for the film, directed by Lynne Ramsay. This moment highlights not only her growth in the industry but also the importance of artistic freedom, as she touched on the current challenges facing freedom of speech and expression in the U.S. and globally, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza.

Dolly Parton has announced the postponement of her Las Vegas residency due to health challenges, requiring her to undergo multiple procedures. This news is significant as it highlights the importance of health and well-being, even for beloved stars, and fans will have to wait longer to see her perform live.

Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican pop star, has been announced as the performer for the Super Bowl halftime show. He expressed that this performance is a celebration of his people, culture, and history, highlighting the significance of representation in such a major event. This news is exciting not only for his fans but also for the broader Latino community, as it showcases their influence in mainstream entertainment.

The new play 'Rohtko' by director Łukasz Twarkowski dives into a fascinating art forgery scandal that rocked a New York gallery, making audiences rethink the nature of authenticity in art. Initially intended as a small experimental project, the play has evolved into a thought-provoking exploration of truth and deception in the art world. This matters because it not only highlights a significant event in art history but also encourages viewers to question the value and integrity of what they see, making it a timely commentary on the current state of art and culture.

The English Touring Opera's production of Donizetti's 'Elixir of Love' at Hackney Empire brings a fresh and humorous twist to this classic opera. Set against a charming seaside backdrop, complete with donkey rides and fish and chips, the performance cleverly highlights the comedic elements of the story, even as the main characters grapple with their unhappiness. This engaging interpretation not only entertains but also invites audiences to reflect on the nature of love and deception, making it a significant cultural experience.

Kody Brown, known from the reality show Sister Wives, is expressing concerns about his intimate life with Robyn Brown, his only remaining wife after recent separations. This situation highlights the complexities of their relationship and the challenges Kody faces in adjusting to a monogamous dynamic after years of polygamy. It matters because it sheds light on the emotional struggles within unconventional family structures and raises questions about the future of their relationship.

Icelandic production company Glassriver has secured a significant international distribution deal with Mediawan Rights for the highly anticipated crime thriller series 'Elma,' which is based on Eva BjörgÆgisdóttir’s popular book series. This collaboration, which also includes Belgian co-producer Lunanime and MTV Finland, highlights the growing interest in Nordic noir and showcases the potential for Icelandic stories to reach a global audience. The deal is a promising step for the series as it prepares for its debut at Mipcom.