DEBBIE ALLEN, TOM CRUISE, DOLLY PARTON AND WYNN THOMAS TO BE HONORED AT THE 2025 GOVERNORS AWARDS

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that its Board of Governors voted to present Academy Honorary Awards to Debbie Allen, Tom Cruise and Wynn Thomas, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to Dolly Parton. The four Oscar statuettes will be presented at the Academy's 16th Governors Awards event on Nov. 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood.

"This year's Governors Awards will celebrate four legendary individuals whose extraordinary careers and commitment to our filmmaking community continue to leave a lasting impact," said Academy President Janet Yang. "The Academy's Board of Governors is honored to recognize these brilliant artists. Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor, whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres. Tom Cruise's incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community has inspired us all. Beloved performer Dolly Parton exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts. And production designer Wynn Thomas has brought some of the most enduring films to life through a visionary eye and mastery of his craft."

Allen's indelible impact on screen spans nearly five decades as a choreographer, actor, and producer. She choreographed the Academy Awards ceremony seven times, as well as films including "Forget Paris," "A Jazzman's Blues" and "The Six Triple Eight." Her producing credits include "Amistad" and "A Star for Rose." Allen made her mark as an actress with "Fame," "Ragtime" and "Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life is Calling."

One of the most recognized and highest-grossing actors of all time, Cruise has been a committed advocate of the theatrical experience, and he helped to usher the industry through a challenging time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Showcasing a deep commitment to his craft – including performing all of his own stunts – his expansive body of work includes his Oscar-nominated acting roles in "Born on the Fourth of July," "Jerry Maguire" and "Magnolia," and the Oscar-nominated "Top Gun: Maverick," for which he earned a "Best Picture" nomination as producer. His other notable film credits include "Risky Business," "A Few Good Men," "Interview with the Vampire," "Eyes Wide Shut," "Vanilla Sky" and the "Mission: Impossible" film series.

Parton is an international icon whose remarkable career spans seven decades. A renowned musical artist and one of the most accomplished in history, with 49 studio albums and more than 100 million records sold worldwide, she has starred in such films as "Nine to Five" and "Steel Magnolias." She has earned two Oscar nominations in the Original Song category for "Nine to Five" and for "Travelin' Thru" from Transamerica." With this Governors Award, a Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, Parton will be recognized for her decades-long humanitarian efforts. She has founded various charitable and philanthropic organizations, including the Dollywood Foundation, which was created in 1988 to inspire the children of East Tennessee – her home state – to achieve educational success. Additionally, her literacy program, "Dolly Parton's Imagination Library," launched in 1995 in honor of her father, has provided children with 285 million books. It evolved into an international movement and remains the signature program of the Dollywood Foundation.

Acclaimed production designer Thomas began his career working on Spike Lee's "She's Gotta Have It," which would be the first of several collaborations between the two. Thomas's film credits include Lee's "Do the Right Thing," "Malcolm X" and "Da 5 Bloods." Other notable credits from his career include the Best Picture-winning "A Beautiful Mind," as well as "Cinderella Man" and "Hidden Figures," to name a few.

The Honorary Award, an Oscar statuette, is given "to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or for outstanding service to the Academy."

The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, also an Oscar statuette, is given "to an individual in the motion picture arts and sciences whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry by promoting human welfare and contributing to rectifying inequities."

The 16th Governors Awards are presented in partnership with Rolex, the Exclusive Watch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

ABOUT THE ACADEMY: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is home to a global membership of more than 10,500 of the most accomplished film industry artists and leaders. The Academy recognizes and celebrates all aspects of the arts and sciences of moviemaking through renowned awards for cinematic achievement, including the Oscars. With the largest film-related collection in the world, the Academy is a leader in the fields of conservation, preservation and exhibition of film-related objects and materials. Through its Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the Academy presents powerful exhibitions, screenings and programs about cinema's past, present, and future. The Academy also inspires young artists and creates opportunities for underrepresented communities to engage with the film world. Across all initiatives, the Academy connects global audiences--its members, the film industry, and film fans--through their shared passion for making and watching films.

ABOUT ROLEX AND CINEMA:

Rolex celebrates human achievement, recognizing the journey marked by milestones and emotions that culminates in defining moments-- determined by a path followed. Forming an integral part of this philosophy is the Swiss watchmaker's long-standing relationship with cinema through the Perpetual Arts Initiative, a broad portfolio of arts that also extends through architecture, dance, literature, music, theatre and visual arts. The company has had close ties with the film industry for decades, its watches playing a role in numerous films, including Oscar-winning masterpieces.

Since 2017, Rolex has championed cinematic achievement through its partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, serving as Proud Sponsor of the Oscars, hosting the event's Greenroom, as well as supporting the Governors Awards, known for recognizing lifetime achievement and humanitarian efforts in the film industry. The company also promotes achievement through its cinema Testimonees such as James Cameron, Leonardo DiCaprio, Martin Scorsese and Jia Zhang-ke and assists in the preservation of film history for future generations as a Founding Supporter of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles and a partner of The Film Foundation and The National Film and Television School.

Photo: Andrew Ge.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ROLEX AND CINEMA, GO TO: https://newsroom.rolex.com/world-of-rolex/perpetuating-arts-and-culture/rolex-and-cinema/rolex-and-cinema-2025

JUDD APATOW WILL SERVE AS GUEST CURATOR OF NEW COMEDY FILM EXHIBITION OPENING APRIL 2027

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures announced that writer, director and producer Judd Apatow will be the Academy Museum's first guest curator of its newest comedy film exhibition focused on celebrating and presenting the comedy genre and filmmakers.

The announcement occurred during the Academy Museum's 20th Anniversary celebration and screening of Apatow's hit feature directorial debut, "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" (2005), as part of an onstage conversation between Apatow, Steve Carell, Catherine Keener, Jane Lynch, Gerry Bednob, and Kat Dennings in the museum's David Geffen Theater. On the evening of the event, audiences were treated to behind-the-scenes stories of the making of the film and heartfelt moments and anecdotes from Apatow, Carell, Keener, Lynch, Bednob, and Dennings on how this classic film came together.

Slated for April 2027, the yet-to-be-titled exhibition is the first Academy Museum exhibition dedicated to the art of comedy in film. Using the resources of the Academy Collection–which includes over 52 million items across the Academy Museum, the Academy's Margaret Herrick Library, and the Academy Film Archive– and through original content featuring a diverse range of comedy filmmakers, Apatow will bring his sense of humor and decades of comedy expertise and fandom to the museum exhibition.

"We're thrilled to announce that our first guest curator at the Academy Museum is none other than the hilarious and brilliant Judd Apatow," said Academy Museum Director and President Amy Homma. "Judd's comedies have shaped entertainment and culture, and we know his expertise, appreciation, and love for the art of comedy will bring a unique exhibition to our audiences."

"The cat is out of the bag, said Apatow. "I'll be working with the Academy Museum to showcase some of my favorite films and filmmakers throughout the ages. "I am honored to curate this project alongside the museum's talented team and with access to the Academy Collection. We hope to leave visitors inspired and, of course, with a big smile on their faces."

Editor's Note: Image credits: Academy Museum Foundation.

ABOUT THE ACADEMY MUSEUM:

The Academy Museum is the largest museum in the world devoted to the arts, sciences, and artists of moviemaking. The museum advances the understanding, celebration, and preservation of cinema through inclusive and accessible exhibitions, screenings, programs, initiatives, and collections. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano, the museum's campus contains the restored and revitalized historic Saban Building--formerly known as the May Company building (1939)--and a soaring spherical addition. Together, these buildings contain 50,000 square feet of exhibition spaces, two state-of-the-art theaters, the Shirley Temple Education Studio, and beautiful public spaces that are free and open to the public. These include The Walt Disney Company Piazza and the Sidney Poitier Grand Lobby, which houses the Spielberg Family Gallery, Academy Museum Store, and Fanny’s restaurant and cafe. The Academy Museum is open six days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

ABOUT JUDD APATOW:

Judd Apatow is one of the most prolific comedic minds in the industry. He is currently in production on a two-part documentary on the life and career of Mel Brooks for HBO Documentary Films that he is producing and co-directing with Michael Bonfiglio.

Recently, Apatow produced Peacock's Stormy Daniels documentary, "Stormy," Peacock's buddy comedy "Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain" and Universal's romcom, "Bros" starring and co-written by Billy Eichner. Apatow also directed, produced, and co-wrote with Pam Brady, the Netflix comedy "The Bubble" and produced and co-directed HBO Films' Emmy-winning documentary George Carlin's "American Dream" with Bonfiglio. Previous director credits include the Emmy-award-winning documentary, "The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling," "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," "Knocked Up" and "The King of Staten Island." He produced Academy Award-nominated "The Big Sick" and "Bridesmaids," as well as, "Superbad," "Pineapple Express" and "Anchorman." For television, he executive produced "Crashing," "Girls," and "Freaks and Geeks." Off screen, Apatow authored "Sicker in the Head," a follow-up to his New York Times best-seller "Sick in the Head," and the forthcoming memoir "Comedy Nerd."

OTHER REEL MOVIE NEWS:

"CODE 3" COMEDY SET FOR SEPT. 12 THEATRE RELEASE:

Aura Entertainment, the fast-rising U.S. distribution company committed to smart, audience-first releases, has acquired Wayfarer Studios' "Code 3," an adrenaline-fueled action comedy led by Emmy-nominated star Rainn Wilson ("The Office"), Lil Rel Howery ("One Of Them Days"), and Aimee Carrero ( TV's "Your Friends & Neighbors"), Rob Riggle (TV's "The Real Bros of Simi Valley: The Movie") and Yvette Nicole Brown (TV's "The Family Business: New Orleans"). The film hits U.S. theaters on Sept. 12.

Directed by Christopher Leone ("Parallels"), "Code 3" follows a burned-out paramedic taking on one final 24-hour shift to train his replacement, only to find the night spiraling into chaos. Packed with heart, humor, and high-stakes action, the film is a ride from start to finish.

The script for "Code 3" is from former paramedic Patrick Pianezza and Christopher Leone, who also directed. Producers are Matt Smith, p.g.a. of Electro Corduroy Entertainment, and Lawrence Mattis of Circle of Confusion, as well as Justin Baldoni and Andrew Calof,, p.g.a. of Wayfarer Studios, and Paul "Pizza" Pianezza of Realdream. Steve Sarowitz and Angela Cardon executive produced for Wayfarer Studios, alongside Rainn Wilson and Lil Rel Howery, with Michael D. Jones for Silver Heart Productions. Megan Herring co-produced on behalf of Circle of Confusion.

"Code 3" expands our slate of elevated, genre-bending films that truly resonate with audiences," said Aura CEO Marc Goldberg. "It's a hilarious, feel-good ride--anchored by two of the most beloved names in comedy today." Added Andrew Calof, President of Production for Wayfarer Studios, "Partnering with Aura on "Code3" has been an incredible experience. They're truly ahead of the curve in today's ever-evolving distribution landscape, and their innovative approach aligns perfectly with our vision at Wayfarer Studios."

MORE ABOUT AURA ENTERTAINMENT:

With a full-service, in-house marketing and promo team, Aura is built to deliver cinematic experiences that scale both theatrically and digitally through campaigns that tap directly into audience passion. The company has already acquired 14 titles spanning genres and budget levels, with seven films slated for release in 2025. Additional acquisitions are in motion to grow the 2026 slate and beyond. Aura previously announced "Trap House," starring Dave Bautista, which is set for a wide theatrical release on Nov. 14.

FOCUS FEATURES SETS WIDE US RELEASE ON CHRISTMAS FOR "SONG SUNG BLUE"

Focus Features has set "Song Sung Blue" for a wide release on Dec. 25. The film, written and directed by Craig Brewer, stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson and tells the inspiring true story of two down-on-their-luck performers who form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, proving it's never too late to find love and follow your dreams.

JEREMIAH FRAITES WRITES MUSICAL SCORE FOR LIONSGATE'S "THE LONG WALK"

Jeremiah Fraites, co-founder and songwriter of the two-time Grammy Award-nominated band The Lumineers, has composed the score for Lionsgate's "The Long Walk," the upcoming film from director Francis Lawrence based on the first-written novel by Stephen King. The film will be released in theaters nationwide on Sept. 12.

Of the score, Fraites says, "Francis and I had a really great initial phone call that helped inform what instrumentation we thought would work. Strings and piano felt right in servicing the expected horror you'd find in Stephen King canon. The real challenge for me was going to be writing music that would properly represent the deep relationships these boys were forming while on this brutal walk.We met years ago when the band the Lumineers did a song for the "Catching Fire" soundtrack. Jeremiah and I had remained friends after that, and stayed in contact. He'd send me vinyl versions of his solo albums and it was exactly that work that made me think he'd be perfect for "The Long Walk."

I'm forever grateful to Roy Lee and Francis (Lawrence) for the opportunity to write my first feature film score," added Fraites. "It was the thrill of a lifetime to score this film. Having been a fan of Francis' work already for years, it was definitely a pinch-me moment to realize I was now getting the opportunity to write music over the incredible picture I was being sent."

MORE ABOUT JEREMIAH FRAITES:

Fraites, a two-time Grammy-nominated songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist came to prominence as one of the co-founders of the chart topping band The Lumineers. His two solo albums, "Piano Piano (2021) and Piano Piano 2 (2023), both topped Billboard's Classical Crossover chart. Fraites' solo work blends classical influences with ambient textures and genre-defying orchestration, showcasing his wide-ranging musical vision. He has also composed music for other mediums, including original pieces for projects such as the documentary "Here. Is. Better.

MORE ABOUT "THE LONG WALK"

From the highly anticipated adaptation of master storyteller Stephen King's first-written novel, and Francis Lawrence, the visionary director of "The Hunger Games" franchise films ("Catching Fire," "Mockingjay – Pts. 1 & 2," and "The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes"), comes "The Long Walk," an intense, chilling, and emotional thriller that challenges audiences to confront a haunting question: how far could you go? Directed by Francis Lawrence from a screenplay by JT Mollner, based on the novel by Stephen King, and produced by Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Francis Lawrence, and Cameron MacConomy, "The Long Walk" stars Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyuot, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Roman Griffin Davis, Jordan Gonzalez, Joshua Odjick, Josh Hamilton, with Judy Greer, and Mark Hamill.