Oscar Predictions: Adapted Screenplay — ‘Hamnet,’ ‘One Battle After Another’ and ‘Bugonia’ Lead a Season of Visionary Reinventions

Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, 'One Battle After Another,' has opened to enthusiastic reviews, showcasing his unique storytelling style that resonates with both critics and audiences. Set in his hometown of Los Angeles, the film reflects Anderson's deep connection to the city and its cinematic landscape. This release is significant as it highlights the ongoing evolution of Anderson's work and his ability to tackle complex themes, making it a noteworthy contender in this year's awards season.

As the Oscars approach, Variety's Awards Circuit section provides a comprehensive look at the current predictions for this year's top contenders. With many favorites emerging, the competition is heating up, making it an exciting time for film enthusiasts. This analysis not only highlights the frontrunners but also reflects the dynamic nature of the awards season, where surprises can happen at any moment.

The Los Angeles Film School has successfully resolved a federal audit by paying $1 million, which helps it avoid harsher penalties faced by other for-profit colleges accused of fraud. This outcome is significant as it highlights the school's ability to navigate regulatory challenges while maintaining its operations, ensuring that students can continue their education without disruption.

Variety's Future of Brand Summit in New York showcased how top executives and creatives are driving brand innovation through creativity and cultural engagement. This event is significant as it highlights the intersection of marketing and technology, particularly the role of AI in shaping brand strategies, which can inspire other companies to adopt similar approaches for greater cultural impact.

David Del Rio, known for his role in 'Matlock', has been dismissed from the CBS series after a sexual assault allegation surfaced. This decision follows an internal investigation that led to his removal from the set. The incident reportedly involved a female actor, highlighting serious concerns about workplace safety and accountability in the entertainment industry.

Variety's inaugural Horror Impact Report shines a spotlight on the influential figures in the horror genre, from filmmakers like Ryan Coogler to producers such as Lisa Dreyer and Osgood Perkins. This report is significant as it not only celebrates the evolution of horror films since the 1920s but also recognizes the diverse talents that have shaped the genre, making it more accessible and appealing to wider audiences today.

The full trailer for Chloé Zhao's highly anticipated film 'Hamnet' has been released, showcasing a poignant story of love and loss that inspired Shakespeare's 'Hamlet.' With Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal in leading roles, this film marks Zhao's return to intimate storytelling after her work on 'Eternals.' The acclaim surrounding 'Hamnet' highlights its significance in the cinematic landscape this year, promising to resonate deeply with audiences.

Sabrina Carpenter has been named Variety's Hitmaker of the Year for 2025, a recognition that highlights her significant contributions to the music industry. This honor will be celebrated at the ninth annual Hitmakers event, which not only showcases Carpenter's achievements but also reflects on the year's musical landscape, acknowledging the key players behind the hits. This award matters because it underscores the impact of artists like Carpenter in shaping contemporary music and inspires upcoming talents.

Exciting news for the advertising world as executives from Variety, Panera, and Digitas, along with creator Nicky Campbell, are set to take the stage at Advertising Week on October 9. They will discuss their innovative partnership and the influencer-driven campaign promoting Panera's new Croissant Toast. This panel is significant as it highlights the power of collaboration in marketing and showcases how brands can effectively engage audiences through authentic moments.

Chase Infiniti is making waves in the film industry as it campaigns for a Lead Actress Oscar for her role in the action-thriller 'One Battle After Another.' Directed by the renowned Paul Thomas Anderson, the film has received critical acclaim and is gaining traction in this year's awards race. This campaign not only highlights Infiniti's talent but also underscores the film's impact, making it a significant contender in the competitive landscape of the Oscars.

Variety has announced its 10 Actors to Watch for 2025, highlighting emerging talent in the film industry. This annual recognition, which has previously honored over 35 Oscar winners and nominees, showcases performers who are poised to make a significant impact. The celebration will take place on October 19 at the Newport Beach Film Festival Honors, emphasizing the importance of supporting new voices in cinema.

A tragic incident occurred at Disneyland when a woman in her 60s died shortly after riding the Haunted Mansion attraction. The park confirmed that she experienced a health issue and became unresponsive as she exited the ride. This unfortunate event raises concerns about guest safety and health protocols at amusement parks, reminding us of the importance of monitoring health conditions while enjoying thrilling experiences.

In a remarkable shift, women are taking the lead in Flanders' television production, with female directors now making up 41% of projects supported by the Flanders Audiovisual Fund. This increase from 22% highlights a growing recognition of women's contributions to the industry. Shows like 'Roomies' by Flo Van Deuren and Kato De Boeck exemplify this trend, showcasing diverse storytelling and perspectives. This change is significant not only for gender representation but also for the richness it brings to the media landscape.

Spitting Image has once again showcased its sharp wit by responding to a lawsuit from Paddington Bear's owners with a humorous skit. The puppet show, known for its satirical take on current events, featured Paddington in a comical scene where he humorously dismisses the legal action. This playful jab not only highlights the show's irreverent style but also draws attention to the ongoing legal battles in the entertainment industry, making it a noteworthy moment for fans and observers alike.

The co-writers of the reboot of the acclaimed film 'A Prophet' are excited to share their vision for the series, exploring the character Malik in a contemporary context. Abdel Raouf Dafri and Marco Cherqui, along with co-writer Nicolas Peufaillit, engage in a lively discussion about the creative process and the relevance of the story today. This reboot matters because it not only revisits a beloved narrative but also reflects on how societal changes impact character development, making it a timely exploration of identity and resilience.

Flemish television is experiencing a vibrant moment, highlighted by its recent success at Canneseries with four notable series. The Flanders Audiovisual Fund, while modest in size, is making significant investments in emerging talent, showcasing its commitment to fostering creativity in the industry. This is crucial as it not only elevates local storytelling but also positions Flanders as a competitive player on the international stage, especially with events like Mipcom approaching.

This fun quiz challenges fans to match iconic sitcom quotes, promising to reveal which sitcom crossover universe they would thrive in. It's a lighthearted way to engage with beloved characters and storylines, tapping into nostalgia and the enduring popularity of sitcoms. This matters because it not only entertains but also fosters a sense of community among fans who share a love for these classic shows.

Dean Devlin, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, shares how his love for 'Star Trek' and 'Star Wars' shaped his journey to becoming a successful producer. His vibrant personality and passion for storytelling have not only led him to create a billion-dollar empire with Electric Entertainment but also inspire countless fans and aspiring creators. This connection to beloved franchises highlights the profound impact of fandom on creativity and success in Hollywood.