Jaylen Moore, Kyle Schmid, Barry Sloane, Walton Goggins, Juan Pablo Raba, Edwin Hodge, and Donny Boaz in ‘Six’ season 1 (Photo by HISTORY / Copyright 2017)
The action drama Six will return to History’s primetime lineup on Memorial Day. The second season of Six will kick off on Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10pm ET/PT before moving to its normal timeslot of Wednesdays at 10pm ET/PT on May 30th.
Season one of History’s dramatic series reached 39 million viewers, according to the network. It also earned the #2 spot among new original series debuting on cable in 2017.
Returning cast members for season two include Kyle Schmid (Copper), Juan Pablo Raba (Narcos), Edwin Hodge (Chicago Fire), Jaylen Moore (The Night Shift), Brianne Davis (Jarhead), Barry Sloane (Revenge), Dominic Adams (Devious Maids), and Nadine Velazquez (Flight). Season two cast additions include Olivia Munn (X-Men: Apocalypse, Office Christmas Party) as a ruthless CIA operative named Gina Cline.
Six season two also stars Eric Ladin (The Killing) and Nikolai Nikolaeff (The OA), along with recurring guest star Erik Palladino (Suits). The series was created and written by William Broyles and David Broyles. William Broyles, David Broyles, Bruce C. McKenna, Alfredo Barrios, Jr., George W. Perkins, Meryl Poster, Arturo Interian, and Barry Jossen executive produce.
The Plot: From A+E Studios, the ten-episode second season of Six follows Navy SEAL Team Six in a mission to destroy the terrorist network responsible for the shooting of their former team leader Richard “Rip” Taggart (Walton Goggins). Led by Joe ‘Bear’ Graves (Sloane), the Navy SEALS will join forces with cunning and tenacious CIA officer Gina Cline (Munn) to scour Eastern Europe, infiltrating hostile territory and terrorist hotspots like Chechnya as they track the mastermind behind Michael’s (Adams) jihadist network. The chase will bring the Navy SEALs to the border of Russia, where the consequences of their actions could spark World War III.
Gina Torres as Jessica Pearson in ‘Suits’ (Photo by Shane Mahood/USA Network)
USA Network is expanding the world of Suits with a new spinoff starring Gina Torres. Torres will be reprising her character, lawyer Jessica Pearson, who will be adjusting “to the dirty world of Chicago politics.”
The Suits spinoff comes from Universal Cable Productions and will be written and executive produced by Suits Aaron Korsh. Daniel Arkin is on board as showrunner and executive producer. Doug Liman, David Bartis, Gene Klein, and Gina Torres are also executive producing the spinoff.
“Gina’s portrayal of Jessica Pearson as one of television’s strongest, most successful businesswomen has made a huge impact with fans,” stated Chris McCumber, President, Entertainment Networks, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment. “We can’t wait to explore this next chapter in the Suits legacy – and a brand new world for Jessica.”
“It was an extraordinary pleasure working with Gina on Suits for six years. Beyond her undeniable talent, she is an incredible partner and collaborator, and I always hoped we would work together again,” said Korsh, creator and executive producer. “I am sincerely grateful to USA and UCP for giving Dan Arkin, my producing partners at Hypnotic and me the opportunity to continue Jessica Pearson’s journey in this new series that will encapsulate all that our fans love about her and Suits – but with its own distinct story that will be unique to the franchise.”
“The Suits flagship series has struck a chord with our marketing partners throughout the years as a great platform for advertising and sponsorship opportunities,” added Mark Marshall, Executive Vice President, Entertainment Advertising Sales, NBCUniversal. “This new Gina Torres-led spinoff allows us to provide those same advertisers and audiences with the content we already know they love to watch, and we’re excited to bring them this new chapter in the show’s legacy.”
Suits was renewed in February 2018 for its eight season. Katherine Heigl has been added to the cast which includes Gabriel Macht, Sarah Rafferty, Rick Hoffman, and Dulé Hill.
The Plot: When Suits began more than seven years ago, Jessica Pearson was introduced as managing partner of one of New York City’s top corporate law firms. Through the years she remained a highly respected, formidable lawyer who helped lead her firm through the darkest times. Always putting her professional life first, Jessica left New York to follow her heart to Chicago in last year’s mid-season finale.
She has made many triumphant returns to the Suits world since and will introduce her new journey in the Windy City during the Season 7 finale, airing Wednesday, April 25, where she will rely on her wits and relationships from Pearson Specter Litt to navigate this unknown territory.
The CW’s Riverdale season two episode 14 found Archie, Jughead, Veronica, and Betty off on a couples’ weekend at the Lodge’s lodge in the woods. Cheryl attempted to derail the weekend after being told she couldn’t come, calling Jughead to let him know she saw Archie and Betty kissing. The alarming news was only one of a series of hiccups the gang encountered as they tried to mend any fractures in their relationships.
Up next, season two episode 15 directed by Mark Piznarski from a script by Aaron Allen. Titled “There Will Be Blood,” episode 15 airs on March 14, 2018.
The season two cast includes KJ Apa as Archie Andrews, Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper, Camila Mendes as Veronica Lodge, Cole Sprouse as Jughead Jones, Madelaine Petsch as Cheryl Blossom, Marisol Nichols as Hermione Lodge, Mӓdchen Amick as Alice Cooper, Luke Perry as Fred Andrews, Casey Cott as Kevin Keller, Ashleigh Murray as Josie McCoy, Mark Consuelos as Hiram Lodge, and Skeet Ulrich as FP Jones.
The “Chapter Twenty-Eight: There Will Be Blood” Plot: FAMILY TIES — After learning that his dad is considering running for mayor of Riverdale, Archie (KJ Apa) begins to grow concerned that the Lodges may have found their newest pawn in Fred (Luke Perry). Meanwhile, Betty (Lili Reinhart) becomes increasingly suspicious of Chic’s (guest star Hart Denton) strange behavior and enlists Kevin’s (Casey Cott) help to figure out what Chic is hiding. Finally, Cheryl (Madelaine Petsch) and Penelope (guest star Nathalie Boltt) are surprised when they learn that Clifford left a secret will, and Jughead (Cole Sprouse) makes a major discovery in his quest to take down Hiram (Mark Consuelos).
One day after Universal and Illumination debuted a new poster for The Grinch, the studios have released the animated film’s official trailer. The two-minute trailer begins with The Grinch waking up annoyed as his alarm clock plays “Happy.” After his faithful dog Max serves him his morning coffee, The Grinch heads into Who-ville where he terrorizes shoppers in a supermarket. He gets his comeuppance when an inflatable snowman delivers a punch to his head.
The Grinch will open in theaters on November 9, 2018.
The Plot:The Grinch tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have his heart changed by a young girl’s generous holiday spirit. Funny, heartwarming and visually stunning, it’s a universal story about the spirit of Christmas and the indomitable power of optimism.
Academy Award® nominee Benedict Cumberbatch lends his voice to the infamous Grinch, who lives a solitary life inside a cave on Mt. Crumpet with only his loyal dog, Max, for company. With a cave rigged with inventions and contraptions for his day-to-day needs, the Grinch only sees his neighbors in Who-ville when he runs out of food.
Each year at Christmas they disrupt his tranquil solitude with their increasingly bigger, brighter and louder celebrations. When the Whos declare they are going to make Christmas three times bigger this year, the Grinch realizes there is only one way for him to gain some peace and quiet: he must steal Christmas. To do so, he decides he will pose as Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, even going so far as to trap a lackadaisical misfit reindeer to pull his sleigh.
Meanwhile, down in Who-ville, Cindy-Lou Who-a young girl overflowing with holiday cheer-plots with her gang of friends to trap Santa Claus as he makes his Christmas Eve rounds so that she can thank him for help for her overworked single mother. As Christmas approaches, however, her good-natured scheme threatens to collide with the Grinch’s more nefarious one. Will Cindy-Lou achieve her goal of finally meeting Santa Claus? Will the Grinch succeed in silencing the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all?
Jon Favreau attends Marvel’s’ ‘Iron Man 3’ Premiere (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez / WireImage)
Lucasfilm just announced Jon Favreau has committed to writing a brand new Star Wars live-action series. Favreau will also executive produce the series which will air on Disney’s direct-to-consumer platform.
The series does not have a confirmed premiere date.
Emmy nominee Favreau (Dinner for Five) is already a part of the Star Wars universe. The actor/writer/director/executive producer lent his voice to the animated action adventure series Star Wars: The Clone Wars and has a role in Solo: A Star Wars Story directed by Ron Howard and opening in theaters on May 25, 2018. Solo: A Star Wars Story stars Alden Ehrenreich as Han Solo, Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian, Emilia Clarke as Qi’Ra, Woody Harrelson as Tobias Beckett, and Paul Bettany as Dryden Vos.
“I couldn’t be more excited about Jon coming on board to produce and write for the new direct-to-consumer platform,” stated Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. “Jon brings the perfect mix of producing and writing talent, combined with a fluency in the Star Wars universe. This series will allow Jon the chance to work with a diverse group of writers and directors and give Lucasfilm the opportunity to build a robust talent base.”
“If you told me at 11 years old that I would be getting to tell stories in the Star Wars universe, I wouldn’t have believed you. I can’t wait to embark upon this exciting adventure,” said Jon Favreau on his new writing and executive producing gig.
Jon Favreau is currently busy directing Disney’s The Lion King starring Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Keegan-Michael Key, James Earl Jones, and John Oliver. The Lion King is targeting a July 19, 2019 theatrical release date. He’s also set to return to the world of The Jungle Book as the director of Disney’s Jungle Book 2. Favreau directed the sequel’s predecessor, the 2016 critically acclaimed box office hit The Jungle Book.
Favreau’s other directing credits include Chef, Cowboys & Aliens, Iron Man 2, Iron Man, and Elf.
The CW’s The Flash season four episode 15 had Central City on the verge of nuclear annihilation. The Flash, Jesse Quick, and Jay Garrick teamed up to try and stop the bomb from exploding, but ultimately it was a suggestion from Iris that saved the day. And now season four episode 16 will find Iris suiting up in a speedster suit for the first time.
Season four episode 16 is titled “Run, Iris, Run” and will air on March 13, 2018. The episode was directed by Harry Jierjian from a script by Eric Wallace.
The “Run, Iris, Run” Plot: IRIS SUITS UP — Team Flash confront a new bus meta, Matthew AKA Melting Pot (guest star Leonardo Nam), who has the ability to swap people’s DNA. During a battle with Team Flash, Matthew accidentally takes Barry’s (Grant Gustin) speed away and gives it to Iris (Candice Patton). Now, with a new threat unleashed on Central City, Barry must act as the team leader while Iris takes on the mantle of superhero speedster in order to defeat their new foe.
Italia Ricci, Kiefer Sutherland, Kal Penn, and Paolo Costanzo in ‘Designated Survivor’ season 2 episode 12 (ABC/Ben Mark Holzberg)
“We need to talk,” says Damian Rennett (Ben Lawson) to Agent Hannah Wells (Maggie Q) while holding a gun on her as season two episode 12 of ABC’s political thriller series Designated Survivor begins. Rennett puts down the gun, attempting to get Wells to listen to what he has to say and to trust him. She picks up the gun and knocks him out with it.
In the White House, President Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland) makes breakfast for his daughter, Penny (Mckenna Grace), but she doesn’t feel like eggs. He makes her promise to eat the fruit he’s given her on the ride to school. President Kirkman then heads to the office and talks via satellite with the commander of a space station to let her and the other astronauts know that the rocket bringing water, food, and other desperately needed supplies to them will be firing off shortly.
Meanwhile, Wells and Aaron (Adan Canto) are questioning Rennett who keeps trying to tell them time-sensitive information but they keep asking about who turned him and what he knows about the Russians. Rennett confirms he was recruited by the Russians years ago but that now they need to stop the launching of the rocket because the U.S. space agency has been hacked.
Kirkman gets updated on the threat of the rocket being hijacked. However, since the intel came from a Russian spy, he believes they shouldn’t trust it and should go forward with the launch. They do, and at first, everything goes fine. But then the rocket goes rogue and heads back to earth and toward a populated area. To avoid anyone from being hurt or killed, they self-destruct the rocket with the astronauts’ supplies.
Kirkman meets with the Russian ambassador to convince him to get his country to help transport the much-needed supplies to the astronauts using their country’s supply rocket. The meeting doesn’t go well and Moss (Geoff Pierson) tells Kirkman they can’t trust or count on the ambassador. Kirkman has Seth (Kal Penn) hold a press conference in which he makes sure to paint the Russians in a negative light. He also announces they have a spy in custody. When Kirkman meets with the Russian ambassador again, he’s angry but assures the President he’ll get his countrymen behind launching the rocket.
Back in the interrogation room, Rennett tells Wells and Aaron that America’s space program is not the only program compromised and that the Russians have also been hacked by a major hacker. He has a lead through a retired hacker who might know the identity of the master hacker. Wells and Rennett (wearing an ankle bracelet) visit the retired hacker.
Meanwhile, there’s more trouble up in space as the hackers have messed with the space station again and now their cooling system isn’t working. The space station is now beginning to slowly cook the badly dehydrated astronauts. Kirkman has his staff reach out to the person who helped design the system, Dr. Andrea Frost (Kim Raver).
Wells and Rennett talk to the retired Russian hacker and he gives them a lead named Ollie who should know who’s behind the major hack of the space station. With Chuck’s (Jake Epstein) help, they track him to a flower show. When Wells approaches Ollie, he makes a run for it so they give chase. He finds cover and begins to shoot at Wells. Rennett has a shot so he tells Wells to toss him her gun. She does, and he wounds Ollie. Wells has a wounded Ollie tell Chuck what he knows of the codes and who might be behind it so that Chuck can do his magic and hopefully find a new lead.
Back at the White House, Kirkman gets word that his daughter had a fight with a girl at school. He talks to Emily (Italia Ricci) about it and worries he’s not helping his daughter deal with her mother’s death. Emily assures him that just being there for her (and Penny knowing he’s there) makes a difference.
Dr. Frost comes up with an idea of how to manually change the space station’s temperature to cool it down. Fortunately, it works.
Chuck has been working hard and figures out the hacks had to be uploaded manually. After checking through the personnel records and the space station’s schedule, he zeroes in on a plumber who was at NASA and planted the malware to be uploaded. He gives Wells and Rennett the address. When they check it out, they’re met at the door by the man’s wife who tells them he’s dead. The widow lets them look around and after doing a little snooping, Wells finds the swipe card the plumber used to install the hack. His background indicates he’s just a mark and not the mastermind hacker. He died the day after he installed the malware.
Kirkman meets with Penny’s principal and says he believes his daughter’s just acting out. The principal tells Kirkman that she’s not. It turns out Penny is protecting other kids from the school bullies. The principal suggests Penny needs to channel her energy and caring into something positive.
Wells brings Rennett into custody and he admits he’s sorry. She asks if he was reaching for a gun the night she shot him on the bridge and he replies that he wasn’t.
The Russian ambassador meets with Kirkman after the Russian rocket with supplies successfully docks at the space station. He thanks the President for making his concession. Kirkman acts like he knows what the ambassador is talking about, but he doesn’t. Later, he finds out Moss made a deal with the ambassador on behalf of the President without his knowledge.
Kirkman meets with Moss and is upset Moss abused his position. Moss assures the President he had to make the tough choice because since Tom’s wife died, he’s been overly cautious and not fulfilling his duties as President. Kirkman tells Moss he cannot excuse away his undermining his authority. “Your services are no longer required,” says Kirkman, dismissing Moss.
That evening, Tom has dinner with his daughter and informs her they need a “no hurt” plan. Anytime she needs to tell him how much she misses mommy, she should. He’ll do the same. Tom then starts talking about some happy memories he has of Penny’s mom and she begins to share with him as well.
The final scene is the President’s team getting word that the video of his visit with the man who killed his wife has been leaked.
Edgar Ramirez as Gianni Versace and Penelope Cruz as Donatella Versace in ‘The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story’ episode 7 (Photo by Ray Mickshaw/FX)
FX’s dramatic series The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story draws closer to its finale with episode seven airing March 7, 2018. Titled “Ascent,” episode seven begins in Milan, Italy in 1992. Donatella (Penelope Cruz) sketches designs and explains her view that a dress is a weapon for women. When one of her assistants makes a suggestion, she crinkles the drawing and tosses it.
Gianni (Edgar Ramirez) arrives and he’s obviously not feeling well. The staff gossip behind his back, and he and Donatella immediately get into a fight. He doesn’t believe she’s living up to her potential and he threatens to never speak with her again. Finally, she breaks down and admits she’s worried about him. He confesses he wants everything from her and she tells him he already has it all.
After she storms out, Antonio D’Amico (Ricky Martin) suggests he follow her and apologize, warning him he doesn’t have time to be cruel.
That night, Gianni admits to his sister he’s not good at sketching after she reveals she’s unable to. He just wants her to grow into her potential. He then suggests they design a dress together, working as if it’s the last design he’ll ever create. He reminds her soon everything will be her responsibility, telling her she has to make it hers. When she asks about the dress, he replies, “This dress is not my legacy. You are.” Donatella finally smiles.
Meanwhile in San Diego, Andrew’s working at a pharmacy. He lies about his accomplishments as he waits on customers. His boss suggests he needs a plan if he wants to earn more money.
Back at his mom’s place, he slams an off-brand ice cream container to the floor because it’s not Häagen-Dazs. He offers a detailed explanation about the background of Häagen-Dazs, and his mom compliments him on being so smart.
He dresses for the club and heads out to meet with Jeff Trail (Finn Wittrock). They discuss men and Andrew admits he doesn’t like rejection.
A while later, Jeff and Andrew sit with some well-dressed young men and Andrew immediately begins lying about his father’s work. Jeff and one of the guys hit it off and leave Andrew alone as the club’s closing. He doesn’t have money for the tab, but the bartender allows him to promise to settle it next time. An older man leaves him his number, aware Andrew doesn’t have any money.
Andrew’s mom is waiting up for him when he finally makes it home. She’s worried because it’s so late and she doesn’t know how he spends his nights out. He confesses he just wants to get far away from this life but promises his mom she’s still his dream woman and he’ll take her with him wherever he goes.
Next, Andrew shows up at an escort agency. The woman takes his photo and asks for his ethnic background. When she learns he’s part Asian, she tells him gay men don’t ask for male Asian escorts. She then asks for his greatest attributes and he lists clever and witty, but she wants to know his penis size. He’s forced to show her and she seems to approve. He says he doesn’t do drugs, she makes him smile, and then she tells him to pick a book and talk about it. He claims he’s read all of them and can discuss each.
Andrew says he’s better with older men than guys his own age. The woman isn’t overly impressed, and she says men don’t ask for clever Filipinos with large penises. Determined, Andrew says, “Then I’ll sell myself.”
Returning to the Versaces, Donatella is fitted with their dress, and then Gianna finishes the final sketches. Donatella loves the design and claims she’ll never be able to do what he does. Gianni wants her to model it, but she doesn’t think that’s appropriate. Gianni’s convinced that because they made it together, it is entirely appropriate for the creator to wear her own dress. He tells her the dress will give her confidence and will make the world see her in a way they haven’t before.
The story shifts to New York City and Vogue’s 100th Anniversary Gala. Gianni arrives and gives his sister a kiss as they walk up the stairs to enter the event. Donatella’s coat is removed and she’s wearing their dress. People turn and stare and her photo is snapped repeatedly as photographers call her name. Gianni leaves her to pose on her own, giving her her moment in the spotlight.
Back in San Diego, Andrew begins his plan to meet millionaire Norman Blachford (Michael Nouri). He attends a play and orders wine next to Norman, and Norman’s intrigued. Norman wants to know why Andrew’s there by himself. Andrew introduces himself as Andrew DeSilva and then provides a history of the play. He even throws in that he’s always preferred the company of older men. Norman’s joined by two of his friends, and they invite Andrew to dinner. He accepts.
They engage in small talk while eating, and Andrew lies that he was married for a while. He whips out Elizabeth’s photo and says he had to escape so he ran away. Norman toasts to outcasts while one of his friends shoots daggers at Andrew.
By the end of the evening, Andrew commits to staying the night with the man who hosted the dinner, Lincoln Aston. Andrew lays out his terms which include an allowance and says he’ll make the man’s house the center of gay San Diego.
Donatella arrives back at the design house and the employees loudly applaud. She’s happy the press is talking about the dress and doesn’t care if the reviews aren’t all positive.
Donatella and Gianni listen as a report’s read indicating customers are discussing the dress, but it’s not driving sales. Apparently, customers want simplicity and practicality. Gianni’s indignant, unable to believe that people don’t want the dress that made Donatella a star. Donatella suggests a simpler version for the customers. One dress for the red carpet and to catch the headlines, and one for the customers.
Gianni’s angry at the suggestion, saying every dress has a soul. He can’t cut away any part of it. Donatella says not every woman would be comfortable in this dress, and they need to feel comfortable in their clothing. Gianni cuts away the leather straps, yelling about this now “normal” black dress. He sits down and holds his head, and Donatella realizes he’s unwell. Gianni begins crying, upset because he can’t hear anyone. Donatella hugs him as they call for a doctor.
In San Francisco, Andrew’s friends are impressed that he’s suddenly wealthy. He explains it by saying he’s a consultant for a Texas oil millionaire named Lincoln Aston. They toast to his new wealth and Andrew wonders what others see as they look at his table of friends. He then points out a young man eating alone at the bar and sends him a drink. He shyly turns to see Andrew raising his hand. The bartender passes the message that Andrew would like him to join them at their table.
They make room for this handsome young man at the table and he introduces himself as David (Cody Fern).
Later, David Madson joins Andrew in his room and he’s clearly impressed. He’s even impressed with the complimentary slippers. The view from the window takes his breath away and Andrew joins him to ask about the slippers. They kiss and quickly strip and jump in the shower.
After they make love, David describes his high school life and how he promised a crying girl in school that he was going to become a successful architect and they’d live in a beautiful house together. He sketches it out to show Andrew as Andrew looks at him tenderly. He then says he crushed the girl’s heart when he told her he’s gay.
David spends the night and Andrew tells him the room and the view didn’t give him pleasure until he walked into it. They snuggle and fall asleep.
Lincoln rings up Andrew and questions him about a secret lover and midnight bottles of champagne in San Francisco. Andrew lies and says he wasn’t with anyone, but Lincoln doesn’t believe him because he has an itemized bill. Lincoln calls it off and hangs up.
Lincoln picks up another young man at the bar, and the man claims he’s not gay although he does accompany Lincoln back to his house. As they’re talking, Andrew watches from the doorway, unseen. The man picks up a heavy object and hits Lincoln in the head. He collapses to the floor, blood flowing from the wound. The man then hits him repeatedly, smashing in his face.
Andrew makes a noise and the man approaches him, attempting to justify the murder by saying Lincoln tried to kiss him. Andrew tells him to run.
Michael Nouri as Norman Blachford and Darren Criss as Andrew Cunanan in ‘The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story’ episode 7 (Photo by Suzanne Tenner/FX)
Days later, Andrew meets up with Norman. Andrew reveals they found Lincoln’s killer and he confessed to the murder. They commiserate over the fact the police feel crimes, including murder, against gays are justified.
Andrew and Norman stroll on the beach and Andrew asks if he can make a home for them. Andrew promises he’ll make Norman happy, and Norman agrees to think about it. Andrew then steals David’s story about the girl in high school and changes it so that it happened to him.
Andrew returns to his mom’s house to pack. She believes he’s off to travel the world with Gianni Versace after working with him in San Francisco. She’s proud of her son as he heads off to Paris, London, and Milan to work on designing for operas.
Andrew breaks his promise to take her with him, even though she says she won’t be any trouble. She can’t afford the apartment on her own. She doesn’t want to be left on her own and begs to speak with Gianni Versace. When she tries to pack things, Andrew tosses her against the wall.
At the hospital, the doctor wants to know how her shoulder blade was fractured. She says it was an accident. She covers for Andrew saying he found her and called the ambulance. She tells the doctor that her son’s a good boy.
Back in Milan, Donatella gathers the staff to confirm her brother is sick. She explains he has a rare ear cancer and will be in Miami resting. She’ll be taking over the day-to-day operations. She’s sure he’ll beat the sickness because he’s stubborn. She tears up as she tells them not to doubt he’ll be back. Until then, she’ll take the reins of the company.
Donatella tells the team they must show they’re strong, daring, and relevant. She wants Versace to survive.
Norman moves into his new house which he claims is way too big. Andrew tells him not to worry, assuring his new sugar daddy they’ll be very happy there.
Lea Seydoux as Zoe and Ewan McGregor as Cole in ‘Zoe’ (Photo credit: John Guleserian)
The 2018 Tribeca Film Festival’s feature film lineup has been announced, with The Fourth Estate set to close the festival. The dramatic film which spotlight’s Trump first year as the U.S. President will have its world premiere at the festival. Directed by Liz Garbus, The Fourth Estate is based on the New York Times’ coverage of the chaotic White House.
Drake Dormus’ sci-fi romantic Zoe is this year’s Centerpiece Gala. Zoe stars Ewan McGregor, Léa Seydoux, Rashida Jones, and Theo James and will also have its world premiere screening at the festival.
The 17th Annual Tribeca Film Festival will run April 18-29, 2018. 96 films will be screened from 103 filmmakers. Of note, 46% of this year’s Tribeca selections were directed by women. That figure marks the highest in the festival’s history.
“We are proud to present a lineup that celebrates American diversity and welcomes new international voices in a time of cultural and social activism,” stated Paula Weinstein, Executive Vice President of Tribeca Enterprises. “Our films succeed in being both entertaining and illuminating which is what you desire from great storytellers.”
“In a year that has reminded us more often of our divisions than our connections, this Festival’s program embraces film’s unique power to overcome differences – that connecting with stories not our own is the road into our deeply programmed human capacity for empathy and understanding,” said Cara Cusumano, Tribeca’s Director of Programming. “We hope that in representing a wealth of undiscovered stories and unique perspectives- including those of a record number of female directors- these 96 films offer a collective journey towards narrower divides and smaller obstacles.”
Centerpiece Gala:
Zoe, directed by Drake Doremus, written by Richard Greenberg. Produced by Kevin Walsh, Michael Pruss, Drake Doremus, Robert George. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. In a future world where cutting-edge technologies can simulate the high of true love, two colleagues at a revolutionary research lab yearn for a connection that’s real. With Léa Seydoux, Ewan McGregor, Christina Aguilera, Rashida Jones, Theo James, Miranda Otto, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Anthony Shim.
Closing Night:
The Fourth Estate, directed by Liz Garbus. Produced by Jenny Carchman, Liz Garbus, Justin Wilkes (USA) – World Premiere, Documentary. For the journalists at The New York Times, the election of Donald Trump presented a once in a generation challenge in how the press would cover a president who has declared the majority of the nation’s major news outlets “the enemy of the people.” Oscar-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus witnessed the inner workings of journalism and investigative reporting from the front lines during this administrations’ first history-making year.
U.S. Narrative Competition:
All About Nina, directed and written by Eva Vives. Produced by Eric B. Fleischman, Sean Tabibian, Natalie Qasabian, Eva Vives. (USA) – World Premiere. Nina Geld’s passion and talent have made her a rising star in the comedy scene, but she’s an emotional mess offstage. When a new professional opportunity coincides with a romantic one, she is forced to reckon with the intersection of her life and her art. With Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Common, Chace Crawford, Clea DuVall, Kate del Castillo, and Beau Bridges.
Diane, directed and written by Kent Jones. Produced by Luca Borghese, Ben Howe, Caroline Kaplan, Oren Moverman. (USA) – World Premiere. Diane is a devoted friend and caretaker, particularly to her drug-addicted son. But as those around her begin to drift away in the last quarter of her life, she is left to reckon with past choices and long-dormant memories in this haunting character study. With Mary Kay Place, Jake Lacy, Estelle Parsons, Andrea Martin, Deirdre O’Connell, Glynis O’Connor, Phyllis Somerville, and Joyce Van Patten.
Duck Butter, directed by Miguel Arteta, written by Miguel Arteta, Alia Shawkat. Produced by Mel Eslyn, Natalie Qasabian. (USA) – World Premiere. Two women, jaded by dishonest and broken relationships, make a pact to spend 24 uninterrupted hours together, having sex on the hour. Their romantic experiment intends to create a new form of intimacy, but it doesn’t quite go as planned. With Alia Shawkat, Laia Costa, Hong Chau, Kate Berlant, Kumail Nanjiani, Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass, and Lindsay Burdge.
Ghostbox Cowboy, directed and written by John Maringouin. Produced by Molly Lynch, John Maringouin, John Montague, George Rush, Sean Gillane. (USA, China) – World Premiere. In this darkly comedic morality tale, tech entrepreneur Jimmy Van Horn arrives in China armed with an invention and confidence, only to learn that being American is not enough to succeed. With David Zellner, Robert Longstreet, Johnny Robichaux, Vincent Xie, and Carrie Gege Zhang.
Little Woods, directed and written by Nia DaCosta. Produced by Rachael Fung, Gabrielle Nadig. (USA) – World Premiere. In this dramatic thriller set in the fracking boomtown of Little Woods, North Dakota, two estranged sisters are driven to extremes when their mother dies, leaving them with one week to pay back her mortgage. With Tessa Thompson, Lily James, Luke Kirby, James Badge Dale, and Lance Reddick.
Maine, directed and written by Matthew Brown. Produced by Summer Shelton, Michael B. Clark, Alex Turtletaub. (USA) – World Premiere. A married woman’s journey of self-discovery and introspection while solo-hiking the Appalachian Trail ends up sidetracked when she encounters a lone hiker. With Laia Costa, and Thomas Mann.
Mapplethorpe, directed and written by Ondi Timoner. Produced by Eliza Dushku, Nathaniel Dushku, Richard J. Bosner, Ondi Timoner. (USA) – World Premiere. In the late 1960s, art-school dropout Robert Mapplethorpe moves into the Chelsea Hotel with dreams of stardom. He quickly becomes the enfant terrible of the photography world as the downtown counterculture of 1970s New York reaches its zenith. With Matt Smith, Marianne Rendón, John Benjamin Hickey, Brandon Sklenar, McKinley Belcher III, and Mark Moses.
O.G., directed by Madeleine Sackler, written by Stephen Belber. Produced by Madeleine Sackler, Boyd Holbrook. (USA) – World Premiere. An inmate entering the final weeks of a twenty-plus-year sentence must navigate between old loyalties and a new protégé, while he also grapples with the looming uncertainty of his return to life outside bars. With Jeffrey Wright, William Fichtner, Theothus Carter, Mare Winningham, Boyd Holbrook, and David Patrick Kelly.
Song of Back and Neck, directed and written by Paul Lieberstein. Produced by Paul Lieberstein, Jennifer Prediger, Kim Leadford. (USA) – World Premiere. A hapless man seeking treatment for his crippling back pain discovers a very unusual talent and unexpected love in this inventive romantic comedy from writer-director-star Paul Lieberstein (The Office). With Paul Lieberstein, Rosemarie DeWitt, Clark Duke, Brian d’Arcy James, Robert Pine, and Paul Feig.
State Like Sleep, directed and written by Meredith Danluck. Produced by Eddie Vaisman, Julia Lebedev, Angel Lopez. (USA) – World Premiere. Following the death of her husband, Katherine travels to Brussels, where a few loose ends become a whole web of secrets as she untangles her late spouse’s mysterious last days alive. With Katherine Waterston, Michael Shannon, Luke Evans, Michiel Huisman, and Mary Kay Place.
Documentary Competition:
Blowin’ Up, directed and written by Stephanie Wang-Breal. Produced by Carrie Weprin. (USA) – World Premiere. In a courtroom in Queens, women facing prostitution charges may earn a chance at redemption thanks to an experimental program established by a team of rebel heroines working to change the system.
Call Her Ganda, directed by PJ Raval, written by PJ Raval, Victoria Chalk. Produced by PJ Raval, Lisa Valencia-Svensson, Marty Syjuco, Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala. (USA, Philippines) – World Premiere. When a transgender Filipina woman is found dead in the motel room of a U.S. Marine, grassroots activists demand accountability. The ensuing case lays bare a constellation of social and political tensions between the United States and the Philippines.
Island of the Hungry Ghosts, directed and written by Gabrielle Brady. Produced by Alexander Wadouh, Samm Haillay, Alex Kelly, Gizem Acarla, Gabrielle Brady. (Australia, Germany, UK) – World Premiere. Christmas Island, Australia is home to one of the largest land migrations on earth—that of forty million crabs journeying from jungle to sea. But the jungle holds another secret: a high-security facility that indefinitely detains individuals seeking asylum.
The Man Who Stole Banksy, directed by Marco Proserpio, written by Marco Proserpio, Filippo Perfido, Christian Omodeo. Produced by Marco Proserpio, Filippo Perfido. (Italy) – World Premiere. In 2007, the anonymous graffiti artist Banksy painted a series of political works around Palestine, only to have them cut down and sold off to the highest bidder. A stylish examination of public space and the commodification of street art, narrated by Iggy Pop.
Momentum Generation, directed and written by Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist. Produced by Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist, Colby Gottert, Greg Little, Justine Chiara, Karen Lauder, Laura Michalchyshyn, Lizzie Friedman, Tina Elmo. (USA) – World Premiere. In the 1990s, a motley band of teen surfers from the north shore of Oahu brought professional surfing to new heights. But as their stars rose, the competition threatened to tear their group apart. With Kelly Slater, Rob Machado, Shane Dorian, Taylor Knox, Benji Weatherley, Kalani Robb, and Ross Williams.
No Greater Law, directed by Tom Dumican, written by Tom Dumican, Jesse Lichtenstein. Produced by Jesse Lichtenstein. (UK, USA) – World Premiere. In Idaho’s rugged Treasure Valley, the Followers of Christ believe in God, family, and faith healing. As an investigation into the community’s high infant mortality rate closes in on the church, one patriarch fights for his right to his faith.
Phantom Cowboys, directed by Daniel Patrick Carbone. Produced by Ryan Scafuro, Annie Waldman, Daniel Patrick Carbone. (USA) – World Premiere. This searing documentary, which spans nearly a decade, is a meditation on youth, tradition, and the evolving hopes and dreams of modern adolescents in the forgotten industrial towns across America.
The Rachel Divide, directed by Laura Brownson, written by Laura Brownson, Jeff Gilbert. Produced by Laura Brownson, Bridget Stokes, Khaliah Neal. (USA) – World Premiere. Rachel Dolezal became infamous when she was unmasked as a white woman passing for black so thoroughly that she had become the head of her local N.A.A.C.P. chapter. This portrait cuts through the very public controversy to reveal Dolezal’s motivations.
Tanzania Transit, directed by Jeroen van Velzen, written by Jeroen van Velzen, Esther Eenstroom. Produced by Digna Sinke. (Netherlands) – World Premiere. A train journey across Tanzania captures a microcosm of contemporary African society in Tribeca alum Jeroen van Velzen’s captivating and visually stunning road movie.
United Skates, directed and produced by Dyana Winkler, Tina Brown. (USA) – World Premiere. Credited with incubating East Coast hip-hop and West Coast rap, America’s roller rinks have long been bastions of regional African-American culture, music, and dance. As rinks shutter across the country, a few activists mount a last stand.
When Lambs Become Lions, directed by Jon Kasbe. Produced by Jon Kasbe, Innbo Shim, Tom Yellin, Andrew Harrison Brown. (USA) – World Premiere. In the Kenyan bush, a crackdown on ivory poaching forces a silver-tongued second-generation poacher to seek out an unlikely ally in this fly-on-the-wall look at both sides of the conservation divide.
Yellow is Forbidden, directed and written by Pietra Brettkelly. Produced by Pietra Brettkelly, Richard Fletcher, Naomi Wallwork. (New Zealand) – World Premiere. Celebrated Chinese couturier Guo Pei is perhaps best known for designing the brilliant gold gown Rihanna wore to the Met Ball in 2015. But Guo’s quest to be recognized by the gatekeepers of Paris haute couture goes beyond the red carpet and taps into global power dynamics and the perpetual tension between art and commerce.
International Narrative Competition:
Amateurs (Amatörer), directed by Gabriela Pichler, written by Jonas Hassen Khemiri, Gabriela Pichler. Produced by Anna-Maria Kantarius. (Sweden) – North American Premiere. In this irresistibly charming social comedy, local officials, in a bid to lure a superstore chain to their quiet hamlet, set about producing a promotional video about their town—only to find themselves disrupted at every turn by two teens making their own rival film. With Fredrik Dahl, Yara Ebrahim, and Zahraa Aldoujaili.
Dry Martina, directed and written by Che Sandoval. Produced by Florencia Larrea, Gregorio González, Hernán Musaluppi, Natacha Cervi. (Chile, Argentina) – International Premiere. Passion and obsession mingle in this fresh comedy about an aging pop star who takes off to pursue a lover, and, while she’s at it, a better sense of self. With Antonella Costa, Patricio Contreras, Geraldine Neary, Pedro Campos, and Héctor Morales.
Lemonade (Luna de Miere), directed by Ioana Uricaru, written by Ioana Uricaru, Tatiana Ionașcu. Produced by Cristian Mungiu, Yanick Létourneau, Eike Goreczka, Christoph Kukula, Sean Wheelan, Anthony Muir. (Romania, Canada, Germany, Sweden) – International Premiere. Mara hopes to move her son from Romania to the U.S. and obtain a green card. But bureaucratic processes give way to authoritarian nightmares in this simmering social drama about American immigration and the institutional corruption of power. With Mălina Manovici, Steve Bacic, Dylan Scott Smith, Milan Hurduc, and Ruxandra Maniu.
The Night Eats the World (La nuit a dévoré le monde), directed and written by Dominique Rocher. (France) – North American Premiere. Following one hell of a party, Sam wakes up to the worst-ever morning after—blood-stained walls, an empty apartment building, and Parisian streets filled with the living dead. Even worse, he’s all alone. With Anders Danielsen Lie, Golshifteh Farahani, and Denis Lavant.
Obey, directed and written by Jamie Jones. Produced by Emily Jones, Ross Williams. (UK) – World Premiere. In the midst of the 2011 London riots, Leon grapples with the stark reality of his life and his relationship with his alcoholic mother while falling in love for the first time. With Marcus Rutherford, Sophie Kennedy Clark, Sam Gittens, T’Nia Miller, and Jay Walker.
The Party’s Just Beginning, directed and written by Karen Gillan. Produced by Mali Elfman, Andru R. Davies, Claire Mundell. (Scotland) – International Premiere. Lucy is a sharp-witted, foul-mouthed, heavy-drinking twenty-something who is still reeling from a recent loss. This surreal coming-of-age tale is a love letter to Gillan’s hometown in the Scottish Highlands. With Karen Gillan, Lee Pace, Matthew Beard, Paul Higgins, Siobhan Redmond, Jamie Quinn, and Rachel Jackson.
The Saint Bernard Syndicate, directed by Mads Brugger, written by Lærke Sanderhoff. Produced by Emilie Lebech Kaae, Jakob Kirstein Høgel. (Denmark) – World Premiere. Subversive satirist Mads Brugger’s latest is an odd-couple comedy about the pitfalls of striking out into the economic frontier; it charts two hapless Danes’ scheme to sell Saint Bernards to China’s middle class.
Smuggling Hendrix, directed and written by Marios Piperides. Produced by Janine Teerling, Marios Piperides, Thanassis Karathanos, Martin Hampel, Costas Lambropoulos. (Cyprus) – World Premiere. Though caught between the mob and border patrol, washed-up musician Yiannis must put his plans to leave Cyprus on hold his when his beloved dog escapes across the wall to the island’s Turkish side. With Adam Bousdoukos, Fatih Al, Vicky Papadopoulou, and Özgür Karadeniz.
Sunday’s Illness (La Enfermedad del Domingo), directed by Ramón Salazar Hoogers, written by Ramón Salazar Hoogers. Produced by Francisco Ramos. (Spain) – North American Premiere. After Anabel hosts an opulent dinner, she is confronted by Chiara, the daughter she abandoned decades earlier. Chiara arrives with just one request: that she and her mother spend ten days together. With Barbara Lennie, Susi Sanchez. A Netflix release.
Virgins (Vierges), directed by Keren Ben Rafael, written by Keren Ben Rafael, Elise Benroubi. Produced by Caroline Bonmarchand. (France, Israel, Belgium) – World Premiere. Teenage Lana is languishing in her run-down hometown on Israel’s sun-soaked north coast—until an older, attractive writer arrives with tales of a mermaid sighting off the shore of the declining resort town. With Joy Rieger, Evgenia Dodina, Michael Aloni, Manuel Elkaslassy Vardi, and Rami Heuberger.
Spotlight Narrative:
All These Small Moments, directed and written by Melissa Miller Costanzo. Produced by Lauren Avinoam, Jed Mellick, Katie Leary. (USA) – World Premiere. Howie Sheffield is at a turning point. As he watches his parents’ relationship crumbling, he becomes infatuated with Odessa, a woman he sees each day on the bus ride to school. With Brendan Meyer, Jemima Kirke, Molly Ringwald, Brian d’Arcy James, Sam McCarthy, Harley Quinn Smith.
Back Roads, directed by Alex Pettyfer, written by Tawni O’Dell, Adrian Lyne. Produced by Craig Robinson, Michael Ohoven, Ashley Mansour, Alex Pettyfer, Jake Seal, Dan Spilo. (USA) – World Premiere. A young man cares for his sisters after their mother is imprisoned for murdering their abusive father. When he strikes up an affair with a married woman, long-dormant family secrets bubble to the surface in this noir thriller. With Alex Pettyfer, Jennifer Morrison, Nicola Peltz, June Carryl, and Juliette Lewis.
Blue Night, directed by Fabien Constant, written by Laura Eason. Produced by Andrea Iervolino, Monika Bacardi, Sarah Jessica Parker, Alison Benson. (USA) – World Premiere. A devastating diagnosis sends a famous singer reeling through the streets of New York City in this French New Wave-inspired drama. With Sarah Jessica Parker, Simon Baker, Jacqueline Bisset, Common, Taylor Kinney, Renée Zellweger, and Waleed Zuaiter.
Daughter of Mine (Figlia mia), directed by Laura Bispuri, written by Francesca Manieri, Laura Bispuri. Produced by Marta Donzelli, Gregorio Paonessa, Maurizio Totti, Alessandro Usai, Viola Fügen, Michael Weber, Dan Wechsler. (Italy, Germany, Switzerland) – North American Premiere. On the windswept coast of Sardinia, two women compete for the affections of 10-year old Vittoria: her troubled, alcoholic birth mother Angelica and her doting adoptive mother Tina. With Valeria Golino, Alba Rohrwacher, Sara Casu, Udo Kier, and Michele Carboni.
Disobedience, directed by Sebastian Lelio, written by Sebastián Lelio, Rebecca Lenkiewicz. Produced by Frida Torresblanco, Ed Guiney, Rachel Weisz. (UK) – U.S. Premiere. After the death of her estranged rabbi father, a New York photographer returns to the Orthodox Jewish community in North London where she grew up and, in doing so, reignites long-dormant passions and controversies. With Rachel Weisz, Rachel McAdams, and Alessandro Nivola.
Egg, directed by Marianna Palka, written by Risa Mickenberg. Produced by Michele Ganeless, Alysia Reiner, David Alan Basche. (USA) – World Premiere. In provocateur Marianna Palka’s sharp and unflinching satire, two couples and a surrogate lay bare the complications, contradictions, heartbreak, and absurdities implicit in how we think about motherhood. With Christina Hendricks, Anna Camp, Alysia Reiner, David Alan Basche, and Gbenga Akinnagbe.
In a Relationship, directed and written by Sam Boyd. Produced by Jorge Garcia Castro, David Hunter, Ross Putman. (USA) – World Premiere. Long-term couple Owen and Hallie are breaking up—or maybe not?—and just as their relationship reaches a turning point, Matt and Willa embark on a romance of their own. A funny and deeply felt chronicle of one summer in the lives of two couples in Los Angeles. With Emma Roberts, Michael Angarano, Dree Hemingway, Patrick Gibson, Jay Ellis, and Melora Walters.
Jonathan, directed by Bill Oliver, written by Peter Nickowitz, Bill Oliver, Gregory Davis. Produced by Randy Manis, Ricky Tollman. (USA) – World Premiere. Jonathan is a young man with a strange condition that only his brother understands. But when he begins to yearn for a different life, their unique bond becomes increasingly tested in this twisty sci-fi drama. With Ansel Elgort, Suki Waterhouse, and Patricia Clarkson.
Mary Shelley, directed by Haifaa Al Mansour, written by Emma Jensen. Produced by Amy Baer, Alan Moloney, Ruth Coady. (Ireland, UK, Luxembourg, USA) – U.S. Premiere. The story of Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin’s whirlwind romance with the tempestuous poet Percy Shelley, a romance that led to her creation of one of the most enduring works of gothic literature before the age of 20: Frankenstein. With Elle Fanning, Douglas Booth, Bel Powley, Joanne Froggatt, Tom Sturridge, and Maisie Williams.
The Miseducation of Cameron Post, directed by Desiree Akhavan, written by Desiree Akhavan, Cecilia Frugiuele. Produced by Michael B. Clark, Alex Turtlelaub, Cecilia Frugiuele, Jonathan Montepare. (USA) – New York Premiere. After Cameron is caught making out with another girl on prom night, her conservative guardians send her to gay conversion therapy. There, she forges an unlikely community with her fellow teens in this Sundance-winning coming of age story. With Chloë Grace Moretz, Sasha lane, Forrest Goodluck, John Gallagher Jr., and Jennifer Ehle.
Nico, 1988, directed and written by Susanna Nicchiarelli. Produced by Marta Donzelli, Gregorio Paonessa, Joseph Rouschop, and Valérie Bournonville. (Italy, Belgium) – North American Premiere. This whirlwind road movie follows the final months on tour of the singer-songwriter Nico, one-time Warhol superstar and Velvet Underground vocalist. With Trine Dyrholm, John Gordon Sinclair, Anamaria Marinca, Sandor Funtek, Thomas Trabacchi, Karina Fernandez, and Calvin Demba.
The Seagull, directed by Michael Mayer, written by Stephen Karam. Produced by Jay Franke, David Herro, Robert Salerno, Tom Hulce, Leslie Urdang. (USA) – World Premiere. A sumptuous adaptation of the classic Chekhov play transports the audience to a picturesque lakeside estate, where a love triangle unfolds between the legendary diva Irina, her lover Boris, and the ingénue Nina. With Annette Bening, Saoirse Ronan, Corey Stoll, Elisabeth Moss, Mare Winningham, Jon Tenney, Glenn Fleshler, Michael Zegen, Billy Howle, and Brian Dennehy.
Stockholm, directed and written by Robert Budreau. Produced by Nicholas Tabarrok, Robert Budreau, Jonathan Bronfman. (Canada, Sweden, USA) – World Premiere. In 1973, an unhinged American outlaw walked into a bank in Sweden demanding millions in cash in exchange for his hostages. The events that followed would capture the attention of the world and ultimately give a name to a new psychological phenomenon: Stockholm syndrome. With Ethan Hawke, Noomi Rapace, Mark Strong, Christopher Heyerdahl, Bea Santos, and Thorbjorn Harr.
Untogether, directed and written by Emma Forrest. Produced by Scott LaStaiti, Luke Daniels, Brandon Hogan. (USA) – World Premiere. Former writing prodigy Andrea tries not to fall for her one-night stand, while her sister Tara throws herself into a newfound religious zeal (and the arms of her charismatic rabbi) to avoid the truth about her current relationship in this multi-character romantic drama. With Jamie Dornan, Jemima Kirke, Lola Kirke, Ben Mendelsohn, Billy Crystal, Alice Eve, Jennifer Grey, and Scott Caan.
Spotlight Documentary:
Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable, directed by Aaron Lieber, written by Aaron Lieber, Carol Martori. Produced by Penny Edmiston, Jane Kelly Kosek. (USA) – World Premiere. One of the most fearless and accomplished athletes of her generation, Bethany Hamilton became a surfing wunderkind when she returned to the sport following a devastating shark attack at age 13. As she continues to chase waves she also now tackles motherhood.
The Bleeding Edge, directed by Amy Ziering, Kirby Dick. Produced by Kirby Dick, Amy Ziering. (USA) – World Premiere. Each year in the United States, unparalleled innovations in medical diagnostics, treatment, and technology hit the market. But when the same devices designed to save patients end up harming them, who is accountable?
General Magic, directed by Matthew Maude, Sarah Kerruish, written by Matt Maude, Sarah Kerruish, Jonathan Keys. Produced by Matt Maude, Sarah Kerruish. (UK, USA) – World Premiere. A Silicon Valley startup built by the best and brightest minds of the 1980s tech world, General Magic shipped the first handheld wireless personal communicator in 1994. It was decades ahead of its time—and a complete failure. With Tony Fadell, Marc Porat, Andy Hertzfeld, Megan Smith, Joanna Hoffman, and Kevin Lynch.
House Two, directed and written by Michael Epstein. Produced by Michael Epstein, Tony Wood. (USA) – World Premiere. In 2005, a group of U.S. Marines killed 24 unarmed Iraqi men, women, and children in a matter of minutes, sparking the largest criminal investigation in Marine Corps history. House Two delves into that investigation and the ensuing court proceedings, all the way up to the case’s shocking conclusion.
Howard, directed and written by Don Hahn. Produced by Don Hahn, Lori Korngiebel. (USA) – World Premiere. Howard Ashman, the once-in-a-generation songwriting talent, penned the lyrics for Little Shop of Horrors and revitalized Disney with his work on The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. Howard is a tribute to the lyricist and to the power of musical storytelling. With Howard Ashman, Alan Menken, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Bill Lauch, Sarah Gillespie, and Peter Schneider.
Into the Okavango, directed by Neil Gelinas, written by Neil Gelinas, Brian Newell. Produced by Neil Gelinas. (USA) – World Premiere. Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of the planet’s last remaining true wildernesses, but studies have shown it is shrinking. A group of intrepid scientists embark on a four-month, 1500-mile journey upriver to the Okavango’s source to investigate why.
McQueen, directed Ian Bonhôte, Peter Ettedgui, written by Peter Ettedgui. Produced by Ian Bonhôte, Andee Ryder, Nick Taussig, Paul Van Carter. Legendary couturier Alexander McQueen’s rags to riches story is vividly brought to life by his closest friends and family, and through his revolutionary body of work, as inspired, tortured, and visionary as the man himself.
Roll Red Roll, directed by Nancy Schwartzman. Produced by Nancy Schwartzman, Jessica Devaney, Steven Lake. (USA) – World Premiere. At a 2012 pre-season high-school football party in Steubenville, Ohio, a young woman was raped. The aftermath exposed an entire culture of complicity—and Roll Red Roll maps out the roles that peer pressure, denial, sports machismo, and social media each played in the tragedy.
Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda, directed and written by Stephen Nomura Schible. Produced by Eric Nyari, Yoshiko Hashimoto, Stephen Nomura Schible. (USA) – North American Premiere. Ryuichi Sakamoto has had a prolific career spanning over four decades, from techno-pop stardom to Oscar-winning film composer. Coda offers an intimate portrait of a legendary artist and a passionate activist.
Say Her Name: The Life and Death of Sandra Bland, directed by Kate Davis, David Heilbroner. Produced by David Heilbroner, Kate Davis. (USA) – World Premiere. Sandra Bland was a bright, energetic activist whose life was cut short when a traffic stop resulted in a mysterious jail cell death just three days later. Say Her Name follows the two-year battle to uncover the truth.
Serengeti Rules, directed and written by Nicolas Brown. Produced by David Allen. (UK) – World Premiere. A band of young scientists discover a radical new theory of the natural world—one that could help confront some of the biggest environmental challenges of our time.
Songwriter, directed and written by Murray Cummings. Produced by Kimmie Kim. (UK) – North American Premiere. Songwriter is an intimate immersion into the intense and collaborative process that created Ed Sheeran’s chart-topping album, ÷.
Studio 54, directed by Matt Tyrnauer. Produced by Matt Tyrnauer, Corey Reeser, John Battsek. (USA) – New York Premiere. In 1977, Studio 54 and its founders, Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell, epitomized New York hedonism. But by, 1979 the fantasy was over—and Studio 54 goes inside that meteoric rise and catastrophic fall. With Steve Rubell, Ian Schrager, Nile Rodgers, Norma Kamali, Karin Bacon, and Myra Scheer.
Time for Ilhan, directed by Norah Shapiro. Produced by Jennifer Steinman Sternin, Chris Newberry, Norah Shapiro. (USA) – World Premiere. In November 2016, Ilhan Omar made history as the first Somali Muslim woman to be elected for state office in America. Time for Ilhan offers an inspiring look at her campaign and the changing face of American politics.
Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie, directed and written by Andrea Nevins. Produced by Cristan Crocker, Andrea Nevins. (USA) – World Premiere. Since her debut nearly 60 years ago, Barbie has been at turns a fashion idol and a cultural lightning rod. Tiny Shoulders steps behind the scenes as the icon undergoes her greatest reinvention yet. With Kim Culmone, Michelle Chidoni, Gloria Steinem, Roxane Gay, and Peggy Orenstein.
Viewpoints:
Charm City, directed by Marilyn Ness, written by Marilyn Ness, Don Bernier. Produced by Katy Chevigny. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Charm City takes viewers beyond the television headlines and over the front lines of violence in Baltimore; in doing so, it reveals the grit and compassion of the city’s citizens, police, and government officials trying to reclaim their future.
Crossroads, directed by Ron Yassen. Produced by Lauren Griswold. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Despite never having played the game before, a group of underprivileged teens emerge as a talented lacrosse team under the tutelage of Coach Bobby Selkin in this inspiring documentary. An ESPN Films release.
Dead Women Walking, directed and written by Hagar Ben-Asher. Produced by Clara Levy, Lorne Hiltser, Michael M. McGuire. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. Nine vignettes depict the stages leading to execution for women on death row in this emotional account of the human toll of the death penalty—on both the inmates and those they encounter in their final hours. With Dale Dickey, Dot Marie Jones, Lynn Collins, Colleen Camp, June Carryl, and Ashton Sanders.
The Elephant and the Butterfly (Drôle de Père), directed and written by Amélie van Elmbt. Produced by Adrienne D’Anna, Delphine Tomson. (Belgium, France) – North American Premiere, Feature Narrative. When her babysitter doesn’t show, a single mother is forced to leave her precocious five-year-old daughter with the girl’s estranged father for a long weekend in this heartfelt drama executive produced by Martin Scorsese and the Dardenne Brothers. With Isabelle Barth, Thomas Blanchard, Judith Chemla, Alice de Lencquesaing, and Lina Doillon.
The Feeling of Being Watched, directed and written by Assia Boundaoui. Produced by Jessica Devaney, Assia Boundaoui. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Journalist Assia Bendaoui sets out to investigate long-brewing rumors that her quiet, predominantly Arab-American neighborhood was being monitored by the FBI—and in the process, she exposes a surveillance program on a scale no one could have imagined.
The Great Pretender, directed by Nathan Silver, written by Jack Dunphy. Produced by Matt Grady, Danelle Eliav, Nathan Silver, Jack Dunphy, Jere B Ford. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. The lives of a French theater director, her ex-boyfriend, and the two actors playing them intersect dramatically in this tangled and darkly funny roundelay set in the New York theater world. With Esther Garrel, Keith Poulson, Maelle Poesy, and Linas Phillips.
Home + Away, directed by Matt Ogens. Produced by Todd Makurath, Luke Ricci, Nathaniel Greene, Matt Ogens, Nina Chaudry. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. For the mostly Mexican-American students of El Paso’s Bowie High School, sports can offer a path to a better life. Home + Away follows three students as they pursue that route in search of success.
Jellyfish, directed by James Gardner, written by James Gardner, Simon Lord. Produced by James Gardner, Nikolas Holttum. (UK) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. Sarah Taylor’s hardscrabble life has turned her into a teenage terror. When her drama teacher helps her channel her ferocious wit into comedy, her life’s delicate balance is set on a collision course with her newfound passion. With Liv Hil, Sinéad Matthews, Cyril Nri, and Angus Barnett.
Kaiser: The Greatest Footballer Never To Play Football, directed by Louis Myles, written by Louis Myles, Ivor Baddiel. Produced by Louis Myles, Tom Markham. (UK, Brazil) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Soccer stars were at the center of the scene in the glamorous nightlife meccas of 1980s Brazil. But in their midst, one of the biggest sports celebrities of his generation harbored a secret: He had never played a single game. With Carlos Henrique Raposo, Carlos Alberto Torres, Zico, Bebeto, Renato Gaúcho, and Ricardo Rocha
M, directed and written by Sara Forestier. Produced by Hugo Selignac. (France) – North American Premiere, Feature Narrative. Written by, directed by, and starring César Award winner Sara Forestier, this steamy drama explores the passionate relationship between a girl with a crippling speech impediment and an undereducated drag racer. With Sara Forestier, Redouanne Harjane, Jean-Pierre Léaud, and Liv Andren.
The Proposal, directed by Jill Magid. Produced by Jarred Alterman, Laura Coxson, Charlotte Cook. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. When artist-turned-filmmaker Jill Magid learns that the archives of Mexico’s most famous architect are being held in a private collection, she devises a radical plan to return his legacy to the public.
Satan & Adam, directed by V. Scott Balcerek, written by V. Scott Balcerek, Ryan Suffern. Produced by Frank Marshall, Ryan Suffern. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. One was a demon on guitar; the other was fresh out of school and no slouch on harmonica. Satan & Adam is a rousing celebration of the blues that comprises documentary footage shot over the course of two decades. With Sterling Magee, Adam Gussow, The Edge, Rev. Al Sharpton, Harry Shearer, and Quint Davis.
Slut in a Good Way, directed by Sophie Lorain, written by Catherine Léger. Produced by Martin Paul-Hus. (Canada) – International Premiere, Feature Narrative. Three 17-year-old girlfriends get a job at the Toy Depot for the holiday season and become smitten with the guys who work alongside them in this charming teen sex comedy. With Marguerite Bouchard, Rose Adam, Romane Denis, Alex Godbout, Anthony Therrien, and Vassili Schneider.
We the Animals, directed by Jeremiah Zagar, written by Dan Kitrosser. Produced by Jeremy Yaches, Christina D. King, Andrew Goldman, Paul Mezey. (USA) – New York Premiere, Feature Narrative. This lyrical coming-of-age tale, based on the acclaimed novel, weaves magic realism into an exquisite portrait of three brothers, their troubled parents, and the secret that the youngest of them holds. With Raul Castillo, Sheila Vand, Evan Rosado, Isaiah Kristian, and Josiah Gabriel.
When She Runs, directed by Robert Machoian, Rodrigo Ojeda-Beck, written by Kirstin Anderson, Robert Machoian, Rodrigo Ojeda-Beck. Produced by Laura Heberton. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. Kristin is a young mother struggling to get by in her small town. One all-consuming passion—the chance to train for Olympic gold with a world-renowned running coach—offers a possible escape. With Kirstin Anderson, Ivan Gehring, and Jonah Graham.
White Tide: The Legend of Culebra, directed by Theo Love. Produced by Bryan Storkel, Theo Love. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. After he’s wiped out by the Great Recession, Rodney hears a story that could be his ticket out of debt. A map, an island, and buried treasure: If you knew where $2 million worth of cocaine was buried, would you dig that shit up?
Midnight:
7 Stages to Achieve Eternal Bliss By Passing Through the Gateway Chosen By the Holy Storsh, directed by Vivieno Caldinelli, written by Christopher Hewitson, Clayton Hewitson, Justin Jones. Produced by Patrick McErlean, Michael Moran, Daniel Noah, Josh C. Waller, Lisa Whalen, Elijah Wood. (USA) – World Premiere. Midwestern couple Claire and Paul are thrilled to find a great deal on an affordable Los Angeles apartment. But the rent is cheap for a reason: cult members keep breaking in at random to commit ritual suicide in their bathtub. With Kate Micucci, Sam Huntington, Dan Harmon, Taika Waititi, and Mark McKinney.
Braid, directed and written by Mitzi Peirone. Produced by Logan Steinhardt, Arielle Elwes. (USA) – World Premiere. Two drug dealers on the lam seek refuge inside their mentally unstable friend’s mansion. But in order to stay, they have to participate in her elaborate, and increasingly dangerous, game of permanent make-believe. With Madeline Brewer, Imogen Waterhouse, Sarah Hay, and Scott Cohen.
Cargo, directed by Ben Howling, Yolanda Ramke, written by Yolanda Ramke. Produced by Russell Akerman, Samantha Jennings, John Schoenfelder, Kristine Ceyton. (Australia) – International Premiere. An infected father navigates a zombie-riddled Australian Outback with his infant daughter. Fortunately, he’s found an Aboriginal community that may hold the disease’s cure. Unfortunately, he has only 48 hours to live. With Martin Freeman.
The Dark, directed and written by Justin P. Lange. Produced by Danny Krausz, Kurt Stocker, Laura Permutter, Andrew Nicholas McCann Smith. (Austria) – World Premiere. Undead and hating it, young flesh-eater Mina haunts the woods surrounding her childhood home. When she befriends a physically abused boy, she must figure out why, for once, she isn’t feeling homicidal. With Nadia Alexander, Toby Nichols, and Karl Markovics.
You Shall Not Sleep (No dormirás), directed by Gustavo Hernandez, written by Juma Fodde. Produced by Pablo Bossi, Pol Bossi, Agustin Bossi, Guido Rud, Juan Ignacio Cucucovich, Maria Luisa Gutierrez, Cristina Zumarraga, Juan Pablo Buscarini. (Argentina, Spain, Uruguay) – International Premiere. A young actress joins an experimental play set inside an abandoned asylum. The objective is clear: The actors must stay awake for as long as possible. The hospital’s former residents, however, have different plans. With Belen Rueda, Eva de Dominici, Natalia de Molina, German Palacios Eugenia, and Tobal Juan Guilera.
Special Screenings:
The American Meme, directed and written by Bert Marcus. Produced by Bert Marcus, Cassandra Hamar. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Paris Hilton, the Fat Jew, Kirill Bichutsky, and Brittany Furlan have all used social media to achieve massive internet fame. But, is it worth it? With DJ Khaled, Emily Ratajkowski, Hailey Baldwin. After the movie: A conversation with director Bert Marcus, subjects Paris Hilton, Kirill Bichutsky, and Brittany Furlan.
Bathtubs Over Broadway, directed by Dava Whisenant, written by Ozzy Inguanzo, Dava Whisenant. Produced by Amanda Spain, Dava Whisenant, Susan Littenberg. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Comedy writer Steve Young’s assignment to scour bargain-bin vinyl for a Late Night segment becomes an unexpected, decades-spanning obsession when he stumbles upon the strange and hilarious world of industrial musicals in this musical-comedy-documentary. With David Letterman, Chita Rivera, Martin Short, Susan Stroman, Sheldon Harnick, and Jello Biafra.
Blue Note Records: Beyond the Notes, directed and written by Sophie Huber. Produced by Sophie Huber, Chiemi Karasawa, Susanne Guggenberger, Hercli Bundi. (Switzerland, USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. This is the history of Blue Note Records, the label that, since 1939, has recorded jazz giants ranging from Miles Davis to Robert Glasper—revolutionizing not only music, but also the world. With Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Robert Glasper, Don Was, and Norah Jones.
Every Act of Life, directed and written by Jeff Kaufman. Produced by Jeff Kaufman, Marcia Ross. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Every Act of Life presents a revealing portrait of four-time Tony-winning playwright Terrence McNally’s ground-breaking, six-decade career in the theater, fight for LGBTQ rights, and triumph over addiction. With Terrence McNally, Audra McDonald, Nathan Lane, Larry Kramer, Angela Lansbury, and Christine Baranski.
The Gospel According to André, directed by Kate Novack. Produced by Kate Novack, Andrew Rossi. (USA) – New York Premiere, Feature Documentary. From the segregated South to the fashion capitals of the world, The Gospel According to André recounts fashion editor André Leon Talley’s storied life and career through intimate conversations, rich archival, and testimonials from fashion luminaries including Anna Wintour, Tom Ford, and Marc Jacobs. With André Leon Talley.
It’s a Hard Truth Ain’t It, directed by Madeleine Sackler. Produced by Stacey Reiss, Madeleine Sackler. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Given unprecedented access to a maximum security prison, filmmaker Madeleine Sackler worked with a group of inmates to tell their own stories, giving rise to this collaborative, intimate documentary project.
Netizens, directed, written, and produced by Cynthia Lowen. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. In the midst of the #MeToo movement, three very different women whose lives were torn apart by online harassment devote themselves to fighting back against the internet’s Wild West of unpoliced misogyny, cyberstalking, and nonconsensual pornography. With Carrie Goldberg, Anita Sarkeesian, Tina Reine, Soraya Chemaly, Jamia Wilson, and Mary Anne Franks.
Nigerian Prince, directed by Faraday Okoro, written by Faraday Okoro & Andrew Long. Produced by Oscar Hernandez, Bose Oshin, Faraday Okoro. (USA, Nigeria) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. A troubled American teenager, sent away to his mother’s native Nigeria, finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of scams and corruption with a con-artist cousin as his guide. With Antonio J. Bell, Chinaza Uche, Tina Mba, Bimbo Manuel, Toyin Oshinaike, and Craig Stott.
To Dust, directed by Shawn Snyder, written by Shawn Snyder, Jason Duran. Produced by Emily Mortimer, Alessandro Nivola, Ron Perlman, Josh Crook, Scott Lochmus. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Narrative. Traumatized by the death of his wife, a Hasidic cantor obsesses over how her body will decay. He seeks answers from a local biology professor in this, unlikeliest of buddy comedies. With Geza Rohrig and Matthew Broderick.
Unbanned: The Legend of AJ1, directed and written by Dexton Deboree. Produced by Dexton Deboree, Stefanie Fink. (USA) – World Premiere, Feature Documentary. Through interviews with Michael Jordan, Spike Lee, and more, this vibrant documentary tells the origin story of the Air Jordan, and the impact it had on sports, hip-hop, and the birth of sneaker culture. With Spike Lee, Anthony Anderson, Chuck D, DJ Khaled, Michael Jordan, Michael B Jordan, Jason Sudeikis, Lena Waithe, and Russell Westbrook.
Woman Walks Ahead, directed by Susanna White, written by Steven Knight. Produced by Edward Zwick, Marshall Herskovitz, Erika Olde, Richard Solomon, Andrea Calderwood. (USA) – U.S. Premiere, Feature Narrative. Based on a true story, 19th-century Brooklyn artist Catherine Weldon journeys west on a mission to paint a portrait of the legendary chief Sitting Bull, only to find a very different world—and man—than she was expecting. With Jessica Chastain, Michael Greyeyes, Chaske Spencer, Sam Rockwell, Ciarán Hinds, and Bill Camp.
Chukuma Modu, Antonia Thomas, Beau Garrett, Hill Harper, Freddie Highmore, Richard Schiff, Tamlyn Tomita and Nicholas Gonzalez in ‘The Good Doctor’ (ABC/Bob D’Amico)
ABC has officially announced the medical drama The Good Doctor will return for a second season. According to the network, The Good Doctor is their top performing new series of the past 13 years. The first season’s lifted ABC’s Mondays at 10pm time slot year over year, with The Good Doctor posting an increase of 172% in total viewers during that 10-11pm hour.
“The Good Doctor‘s message of inclusiveness resonates with our viewers and is a hallmark of what we aim to accomplish here at ABC,” stated Channing Dungey, president, ABC Entertainment. “This series has quickly joined the zeitgeist and broken records in the competitive television landscape. We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Shaun Murphy will be back for another season.”
Season one stars Freddie Highmore as Dr. Shaun Murphy, Antonia Thomas as Dr. Claire Browne, Nicholas Gonzalez as Dr. Neil Melendez, Chuku Modu as Dr. Jared Kalu, Beau Garrett as Jessica Preston, Hill Harper as Dr. Marcus Andrews, Richard Schiff as Dr. Aaron Glassman and Tamlyn Tomita as Allegra Aoki. David Shore writes and executive produces the critically acclaimed series.
Daniel Dae Kim, David Kim and Sebastian Lee also serve as executive producers. In addition, Seth Gordon directed the show’s pilot and is involved as an executive producer.
The Plot: Golden Globe nominee Freddie Highmore stars as Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, who relocates from a quiet country life to join the prestigious St. Bonaventure hospital’s surgical unit. Alone in the world and unable to personally connect with those around him, his only advocate, Dr. Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff), challenges the skepticism and prejudices of the hospital’s board and staff when he brings him in to join the team. Shaun will need to work harder than he ever has before, as he navigates his new environment and relationships to prove to his colleagues that his extraordinary medical gifts will save lives.
