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| Rating: About Ratings
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| Opens: 07/24/2026 |
| Running Time: 90 |
| Rated: R |
| Cast: Evan Gamble, Brian Villalobos, P. Michael Hayes, Mor Cohen, Cliff Dean, Marc Pouhe, and Steve Brudniak. |
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| Crew: Director: Eric Owen. Producers: Eric Owen. Executive Producers: Mike Chapman and Fatima Hayward. Screenwriters: Eric Owen. Music: Eric Owen. Cinematography: Josh Taylor. |
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REVIEW: By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
STONE-COLD REVENGE FUELS "IN A COLD VEIN"
Revenge may be a dish best served cold, but "In a Cold Vein" sure serves it up with plenty of grit, bruises and bloody determination.
Writer-director Eric Owen ("Thirst") delivers a lean, 90 minutes crime thriller that wastes little time throwing audiences into its brutal world.
While the film occasionally shows the limitations of its modest budget, it more than makes up for it with relentless pacing, sharp tension, and an eerie, commanding lead performance from Evan Gamble. ("Red Right Hand").
Gamble is one tough customer as Dean O'Reilly, a ruthless criminal determined to find out who ordered a hit on him and why. Kidnapped, tied up, and tossed into the back of a van by captors Steve (P. Michael Hayes II, "Tiny Texas") and Phil (Brian Villalobos, "Man Finds Tape"), Dean endures repeated blows from a heavy wrench that would leave most people unable to stand, much less fight back. Yet somehow, he refuses to stay down, fueled by equal parts rage and survival instinct.
As the mystery unfolds, another figure named Marco (Marc Pouhe, "I'll Be There") emerges as a key player in the dangerous web surrounding Dean. Dean's desperate escape is also fueled by his family. His wife, Darla (Mor Cohen, "And Her Body Was Never Found"), and their 9-year-old son Jack (Griffon Ethridge, "To Will the Sunrise") are apparently missing which raises the stakes.
Even if Dean manages to rescue them, it's painfully clear that the life he once knew has been shattered beyond repair.
Things only become stranger when Dean hitches a ride with an unpredictable truck driver named Chuck (Steve Brudniak, "It's Alive"). Chuck initially seems like a stroke of luck, but his increasingly erratic behavior quickly suggests otherwise. When Chuck refuses to let Dean out and embarks on his own dangerous detour, Dean is forced to take matters into his own hands in a sequence that feels like something straight out of a Jason Statham movie.
The surprises continue when Dean finally makes his way home, only to discover his wife in a compromising situation with his brother Bruce (Cliff Dean, "Wyatt Earp 2"). Thankfully, "In a Cold Vein" doesn't turn into a melodramatic love story. Instead, Owen uses the revelation as another piece of an increasingly twisted puzzle, leading to several satisfying turns that keep viewers guessing.
"In a Cold Vein" is a solid entry into the revenge-drama genre. The film isn't flashy, but its stripped-down style gives the danger an unsettling authenticity that works in its favor.
Much of the movie's success rests on Evan Gamble's shoulders, and he delivers. His character Dean is both intimidating and unpredictable, with Gamble bringing an eerie, chilling presence to every scene. Even when Dean says very little, Gamble conveys a man whose pain and anger are always threatening to boil over. It's a performance that anchors the film and elevates the familiar material.
Fans of hardcore crime dramas should find plenty to appreciate in this stone-cold thriller.
"In a Cold Vein" is currently available On Demand and Digital.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Watch This Trailer For "IN A COLD VEIN"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards. |
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 07/24/2026
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Rated: R
Opens: 07/17/2026
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 06/26/2026
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Rated: R
Opens: 06/26/2026
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Rated: PG
Opens: 06/19/2026
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 06/12/2026
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OLD SCHOOL VIDEO PICK OF THE MONTH
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Title: SOUNDER
Year Released: 1972
Running Time: 105
Production Company: 20th Century Fox
Director: Martin Ritt
Director of Photography: John A. Alonzo
Screenwriter: Lonne Elder III
Author: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
REVIEW: "SOUNDER"-- A STORY THAT STILL SPEAKS
I remember the first time I saw the movie "Sounder"--back in 1972, when it first came out--at a downtown Los Angeles theater with my older brothers.
I was just a 11-years-old but watching that powerful story unfold on screen left a lasting impression.
I was captivated by the powerful performances of the late, great Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield,...
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NEW ON DVD
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Title: IP MAN: KUNG FU LEGEND
Year Released: 2026
Running Time: 98
Production Company: Well Go USA
Director: Li Liming
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
WING CHUN LIVES ON IN THE THRILLING "IP MAN: KUNG FU LEGEND"
Few figures in martial arts history loom as large as Ip Man aka Yip Man the legendary Wing Chun grandmaster whose teachings forever changed the landscape of Kung Fu and whose most famous student, Bruce Lee, helped introduce Chinese martial arts to audiences around the globe.
Decades after his life first inspired filmmakers, the character continues to captivate audiences, and "Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend," from Well Go USA Entertainment proves there are still exciting stories to tell.
Dennis To slips effortlessly back into the role for the fourth time, bringing both quiet dignity and explosive physicality to the revered master, while director Li Liming ("The Wolfman," and "Young Ip Man: Crisis Time" ) delivers an energetic, old-school martial arts adventure that honors the character's enduring legacy without losing sight of pure entertainment.
Picking up after "Ip Man: Kung Fu Master," the film finds Ip Man leaving behind his police career in hopes of opening his own martial arts school, only to become entangled in a conspiracy after a western boxing gym attempts to dominate the local martial arts community.
Framed for murder and forced to battle corrupt triads and foreign opportunists, Ip Man must rely on his unmatched Wing Chun skills to protect both his name and the traditions he holds dear.
The action here is crisp, hard-hitting, and wonderfully choreographed, with Dennis To once again demonstrating why he has become one of the most convincing screen portrayals of the legendary master.
Supporting performances from Zhou Xiaofei ("The Grandmaster," "Ip Man 4: The Finale") and newcomer Zhang Tingfei add heart to the story while never distracting from the film's relentless pace.
"Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend" embraces everything fans love about classic kung fu cinema--honor, perseverance, breathtaking fight choreography, and an underdog standing against overwhelming odds.
While it celebrates the mythology surrounding its iconic hero, it also serves as a reminder of Ip Man's immeasurable influence on martial arts culture and the generations of practitioners inspired by his teachings.
Whether you've followed the "Ip Man" films from the beginning or are simply looking for an exciting martial arts spectacle, this latest chapter delivers in every way. It's another worthy addition to one of the genre's most enduring cinematic legacies.
(Highly Recommended).
Editor's Note: "Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend" is currently available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD. It will also land on Digital Aug. 11.
Take A Look At This Trailer For "IP MAN: KUNG FU LEGEND"
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Title: WARRIORS OF THE WASTELAND
Year Released: 2026
Running Time: 125
Production Company: Well Go USA
Director: Nemanja Ceranic
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
LOST IN THE "WASTELAND"
The post-apocalyptic Serbian drama, "Warriors of the Wasteland," from director Nemanja Ceranic, debuts on Digital July 7 from Well Go USA and is a marginally entertaining film that starts out promising but becomes a bit too convoluted and loses its way.
Originally titled "Son's Will," "Warriors of the Wasteland" is an ambitious swing from Serbian cinema, delivering a dusty, bullet-ridden future where ammunition is currency and survival comes one decapitation at a time.
Unfortunately, the constant back-and-forth flashback structure does the story no favors, turning what should have been a straightforward revenge tale into a timeline puzzle that feels unnecessarily tangled. There are simply too many characters to keep track of, and just when you think you've figured out who's who and what's happening, the film jumps around again, making the narrative more confusing than compelling.
That said, the movie never completely loses your attention. Igor Bencina makes for a convincing anti-hero as Jovan; a grim drifter armed with a samurai sword and very little patience. Watching him carve through enemies is admittedly entertaining, with heads rolling off shoulders as easily as onions on a cutting board. The action is bloody, brutal, and occasionally over-the-top enough to earn a guilty chuckle.
Shot entirely in English, the film follows Jovan across the devastated West Balkans as he searches for his sister while crossing paths with radioactive cults, ruthless warlords, and enough grimy survivors to fill several wastelands.
The biggest obstacle, however, is that "Warriors of the Wasteland" borrows so heavily from the "Mad Max" playbook that I almost expected Max Rockatansky himself to roar into frame-- whether played by Mel Gibson or simply someone doing their best Mel Gibson impression. From the masked villains to the cobbled-together motorcycles and scorched-earth aesthetic, the influences are impossible to ignore.
Still, there's an earnest ambition behind the film that deserves some credit. "Warriors of the Wasteland" isn't quite the next "Mad Max"--not even close--but for viewers looking for a low-budget, violent, blood-soaked adventure and just enough intrigue to keep watching until the end, "Warriors of the Wasteland" isn't a complete waste of time.
(Recommended).
Editor's Note: "Warriors of the Wasteland" is currently available on Digital and will arrive on Blu-ray and DVD exclusively through Amazon on Sept. 8.
Take A Look At This Trailer For "WARRIORS OF THE WASTELAND"
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Title: BLADES OF THE GUARDIANS: WIND RISES IN THE DESERT
Year Released: 2026
Running Time: 130
Production Company: Well Go USA
Director: Yuen Woo-Ping
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
YUEN WOO-PING RETURNS TO GLORY WITH "BLADES OF THE GUARDIANS: WIND RISES IN THE DESERT"
Few filmmakers understand the poetry of action quite like Yuen Woo-Ping. With "Blades of the Guardians: Wind Rises in the Desert," the legendary Hong Kong filmmaker reminds audiences exactly why he remains one of cinema's greatest action visionaries.
Every sword clash, gravity-defying leap and meticulously choreographed duel unfolds with breathtaking precision, transforming each battle into a work of cinematic art. This isn't simply another wuxia epic; it's the triumphant return of a master storyteller whose influence continues to shape action filmmaking.
Making his first return to the director's chair in almost six years, the 80-year-old filmmaking icon proves that age has done nothing to diminish his remarkable talent. Best known for revolutionizing action choreography in "The Matrix," "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" and "Kill Bill," Yuen once again demonstrates his signature style that is equal parts elegance, athleticism, and imagination.
Set during China's Sui Dynasty, the story follows Dao Ma (Wu Jing, "The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death"), a once-elite imperial guardian who has fallen from grace and now survives as a bounty hunter while caring for his young nephew. When he accepts the dangerous assignment of escorting the empire's most wanted fugitive, Zhi Shi Lang (Yi-zhou Sun, "Being Towards Death"), across the desert, what appears to be a routine mission quickly erupts into a desperate fight for survival.
Corrupt officials, ruthless bounty hunters, and deadly warriors descend from every direction after an enormous reward is placed on Zhi Shi Lang's head, forcing Dao Ma into an increasingly perilous journey where trust becomes as valuable as skill with a blade.
While the story explores themes of honor, loyalty, and redemption, it's Yuen's astonishing action choreography that audiences will care most about.
Every confrontation is purposeful, inventive, and visually exhilarating. Sword fights explode across windswept deserts, narrow villages and sprawling battlefields with an energy that never grows repetitive. One breathtaking duel staged amid a ferocious desert sandstorm is especially impressive, as the raging elements become just as dangerous as the combatants themselves.
Adding even more excitement is the film's extraordinary ensemble of martial arts legends. Jing Wu anchors the story with quiet strength and commanding physicality, while Nicholas Tse, Max Zhang, Kara Wai, Tony Leung Ka Fai, Chen Lijun, and the rest of the superb cast each bring their own distinctive presence to the screen.
Martial arts icon Jet Li ("Mulan") appears as Chang Guiren, lending his unmistakable charisma to a production already overflowing with talent.
Although his role isn't an extensive one, his appearance carries the weight and screen presence that have made him an undeniably beloved figure in martial arts cinema. Seeing so many celebrated performers assembled under Yuen Woo-Ping's direction feels less like stunt casting and more like a celebration of the genre itself.
"Blades of the Guardians: Wind Rises in the Desert" shows just what can be achieved through practical stunt work, disciplined choreography, and performers whose extraordinary physical abilities command the screen. Every sequence reflects decades of craftsmanship from a filmmaker whose influence stretches from Hong Kong classics to Hollywood blockbusters. Even after an extraordinary career spanning more than five decades, Yuen Woo-Ping continues to raise the bar.
Fans of classic wuxia adventures will find much to celebrate with "Blades of the Guardians: Wind Rises in the Desert," while newcomers will discover why Yuen Woo-Ping's work continues to inspire filmmakers worldwide.
(Highly Recommended).
"Blades Of The Guardians: Wind Rises In The Desert" from Well Go USA is currently available on Digital.
Watch This Trailer For "BLADES OF THE GUARDIANS"
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Title: MISSISSIPPI SCHOLAR
Year Released: 2024
Running Time: 85
Production Company: Persimmon
Director: Marcus Bleecker
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"MISSISSIPPI SCHOLAR" TEACHES A VALUABLE LESSON
"Mississippi Scholar" marks the feature directorial debut of Marcus Bleecker, who also co-wrote the film alongside P.J. Leonard, ("GirlGroup") and Obba Babatunde (upcoming "Ali 1978: The Butterfly's Last Dance").
Together, they have created a grounded coming-of-age drama about a gifted Mississippi high school senior named James Wilson (Shannon Brown, TV's "Swagger") who is trying to carve out a future beyond poverty, addiction, and expectation.
The film, also featuring a story influenced by Leonard's real-world encounters, leans into a character-first approach, focusing less on broad statements about struggle and more on the specific, personal cost of trying to escape it. The movie, which won the Jury Award for "Best Feature Film" at the Beverly Hills Film Festival" in 2024, builds its narrative around an urgent question: what does it take for an underprivileged intellectual to claim a future that his environment seems determined to deny him?
Shannon Brown (TV's "Swagger") stars as James Wilson, a sharp, gifted, and deeply driven Mississippi high school student determined not to be defined by his environment or upbringing. His mother, Crystal (Gisla Stringer, "Orpa," TV's "Mayor of Kingstown"), is battling addiction and illness, leaving James to shoulder responsibilities far beyond his years in a small town where opportunity feels increasingly out of reach.
Still, he sets his sights on college and a future that looks nothing like his present circumstances.
His only steady compass comes from his grandfather Reginald (Babatunde), who offers quiet, seasoned guidance about the choices that will define him. Ray Ray (Jeremy Isaiah Earl, "Daredevil: Born Again"), a former local thug trying to rebuild his life after prison, also recognizes James' potential and becomes an unlikely protector, determined not to let him repeat the same cycle.
At school, James finds another source of support in his teacher Brian Keating (Sonny Marinelli, "Judge No More," and "Jersey Bred"), who also sees his promise and continually pushes him toward bigger possibilities. But home life weighs heavily. James loves his mother deeply, even as he struggles with the toll her condition takes on him, and the responsibility of caring for her slowly chips away at his focus and stability.
When tragedy strikes Ray Ray, James' already fragile world is completely upended, forcing him into a life-altering decision that will determine not just where he goes next, but who he becomes.
(Highly Recommended).
Editor's Note: "Mississippi Scholar" is currently available On Demand.
Watch This Trailer For "MISSISSIPPI SCHOLAR"
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
MEL GIBSON'S "THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST" BACK IN THEATERS SEPT. 10–17
As anticipation builds for Academy Award-winning filmmaker Mel Gibson's long-awaited return to one of history's most influential stories, Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide, will bring "The Passion of the Christ" back to theatres nationwide.
Newly remastered in stunning 4K with Dolby Atmos sound, the landmark film returns to the big screen Sept. 10–17, offering audiences the opportunity to experience again--or for the very first time--the cinematic event that became a global phenomenon.
The special theatrical engagement also marks the beginning of the journey toward Gibson's "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One." His most ambitious filmmaking achievement--and the largest faith film ever brought to the screen--the epic arrives exclusively in theatres May 6, 2027. The re-release invites audiences to rediscover the film as an unforgettable, communal cinematic event before they return to theatres for the next film in 2027.
Audiences attending the re-release of "The Passion of the Christ" will see an exclusive, behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the highly anticipated new film, which tells the story of Christ's victory over death after His greatest sacrifice, a moment that forever changed the course of humanity and continues one of history's most consequential and enduring stories.
Lionsgate has created an all-new full-length theatrical trailer for "The Passion of the Christ" which the studio is releasing with Fathom to celebrate the film’s return to theatres.
More than two decades after redefining the faith genre, "The Passion of the Christ" remains an iconic cinematic achievement from Academy Award-winning director Mel Gibson ("Braveheart," and "Hacksaw Ridge"). Through visionary filmmaking, breathtaking scale, and bold emotional storytelling, the film brought one of the Bible's most enduring stories to life for millions around the world and became the highest-grossing domestic R-rated film of all time for 20 years.
Lionsgate also announced that "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One" will be executive produced by Cedar Hill and by Mike Ilitch Jr. Productions. Both companies are investors in the film.
Lionsgate is enlisting international distribution partners for the re-release of "The Passion of the Christ" in their respective markets, The re-release will begin domestically and will follow internationally.
For this special theatrical presentation, "The Passion of the Christ" has been meticulously remastered from the original camera negative in 4K resolution. The film features a new color pass supervised by original Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Caleb Deschanel, along with a Dolby Atmos audio mix reviewed and approved by Mel Gibson.
Starring Jim Caviezel as Jesus of Nazareth, "The Passion of the Christ" chronicles the final hours of Jesus' life, His trial, Crucifixion, and Resurrection in one of history's most enduring stories of sacrifice, redemption, and hope.
Upon its original release, the film became a worldwide cultural phenomenon, earning three Academy Award® nominations while inspiring audiences across generations. Its powerful theatrical presentation transcended entertainment to become a defining cultural moment at the intersection of faith, cinema, and popular culture.
Kevin Grayson, president, Worldwide Distribution for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said, ""The Passion of the Christ" remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created. For millions of people, it was far more than a film, it became a powerful shared cultural and faith experience. Bringing it back to theatres in a stunning new restoration allows longtime audiences to experience it in an entirely new way while inviting a new generation to discover it in theatres for the very first time. This also marks the beginning of the journey toward "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One," one of the most ambitious and anticipated faith films ever brought to the screen. With breathtaking scale, remarkable visual ambition, and a theatrical experience designed for the biggest screen possible, we’re thrilled for audiences to experience these monumental films as intended at the theatre."
"Few modern-day films have made as much of an impact on the cultural landscape as "The Passion of the Christ." Twenty years ago, faith-based and more secular-leaning audiences alike embraced Mel Gibson’s film cinematic masterpiece and made it a true success, ushering in an era of opportunity for future religious-themed projects,” said Ray Nutt, Chief Executive Officer for Fathom Entertainment. "Fathom Entertainment is very pleased to extend its longstanding successful working relationship with Lionsgate and bring "The Passion of the Christ" back to the big screen, newly remastered in 4K and with premium Dolby Atmos sound."
Tickets for "The Passion of the Christ" will be available online starting July 24, 2026 and at participating theatre box offices (theatre locations are subject to change). For more information and to be among the first notified when tickets go on sale, please visit Fathom Entertainment.
MORE ABOUT FATHOM ENTERTAINMENT:
Fathom Entertainment is the leading global specialty distributor of live and pre-recorded content to theatres. For more than 20 years, Fathom has pioneered theatrical distribution of events and special engagements, including performing arts, movies, episodic content, and other special event programming across various genres and formats. Fathom offers content creators a worldwide cinema distribution network by operating in 45 countries and boasts a live digital broadcast network of more than 1,100 locations. Fathom is owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC), Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), and Regal Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L). For more information, visit FathomEntertainment.com .
ABOUT LIONSGATE:
Lionsgate (NYSE: LION) is one of the world's leading standalone, pure play, publicly-traded content companies. It brings together diversified motion picture and television production and distribution businesses, a world-class portfolio of valuable brands and franchises, a premier talent management and production powerhouse at 3 Arts Entertainment and a more than 20,000-title film and television library, all driven by Lionsgate's bold and entrepreneurial culture.
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
PARAMOUNT+ GREENLIGHTS NEW SERIES "LAIRD"
Today, Paramount+ announced it has greenlit a new drama series titled "Laird," with Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor, writer and director Kenneth Branagh ("Mayday" and "Oppenheimer") set to star and executive produce.
Set in the modern Scottish Highlands, "Laird" is an epic family saga in which a proud Scot defies a shadowy American billionaire hellbent on buying up the glens. Amidst family feuds, buried secrets and star-crossed romances, the Laird of Castle Drummoch (Branagh) remains determined to protect his ancestral lands from oligarchical land grabbing.
Created by Jez Butterworth ("MobLand," "The Agency"), John-Henry Butterworth ("Nine Perfect Strangers," "The Agency") and Georgia Lee ("The 100," and "Partner Track"), "Laird" is produced by Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios. Branagh will executive produce alongside David C. Glasser, Jez Butterworth & John-Henry Butterworth, Joe Wright, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin, Bob Yari, Charles Finch, and Keith Cox. Two-time BAFTA-winning filmmaker Joe Wright ("Pride & Prejudice" and "Atonement," "Darkest Hour," and "Cyrano") is attached to direct the pilot.
"At its heart, "Laird" is about one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power," said Jane Wiseman, Head of Originals for Paramount+. "There's something universally resonant about watching someone fight to protect what matters most, and with Kenneth Branagh leading the series, and an equally remarkable creative team, we can't wait for audiences to root for the Laird of Castle Drummoch"
"Jez, John-Henry, and Georgia have imagined a gripping drama that explores how far one family will go to protect their land and legacy,” said Matt Thunell, President, Paramount Television Studios. “With Kenneth Branagh starring and Joe Wright directing, this is a singular creative team, and we are thrilled to once again partner with 101 Studios to bring this series to Paramount+.”
"Working with Jez and John Henry has been such an incredible experience these last few years. I couldn’t be more thrilled to take another epic journey with them,” said David Glasser, CEO of 101 Studios.
ABOUT PARAMOUNT+
Paramount+ is the global flagship streaming home of premium original series and entertainment from some of the most enduring brands in television to subscribers around the world. Drawing on decades of beloved IP, Paramount+ also features a diverse offering of live sports, feature films, news and series from across the Paramount portfolio including CBS hits like Marshals and Tracker, all BET Original Series, the Avatar animated universe from Nickelodeon and more.
It is a key pillar of the Direct-to-Consumer division at Paramount, a Skydance Corporation (Nasdaq: PSKY), whose portfolio spans Paramount Pictures, Pluto TV, and Skydance Animation, Games and Sports divisions. For more information, visit www.paramount.com.
Editor's Note: Photo By Johan Persson.
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
JENNIFER TODD TO PRODUCE 17TH GOVERNORS AWARDS
Producer and former Academy Producers Branch governor Jennifer Todd (pictured) will produce the 17th Governors Awards for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor recently announced. It is Todd's first time producing the event.
At the Governors Awards, Honorary Oscars will be presented to actor Glenn Close, animator Floyd Norman and director Ridley Scott, and the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award to producers Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler. The event will take place on November 15, 2026, at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood, in partnership with Rolex.
"We are thrilled to have Jennifer leading this year's Governors Awards," said Taylor. "Her expertise in producing will undoubtedly create a beautiful evening celebrating the artistry of this year’s exceptional honorees."
"I am delighted to have the opportunity to produce this cherished Academy event," said Todd. "I'm looking forward to honoring the remarkable achievements of five artists with a tribute that reflects the lasting cultural impact they have made."
Todd has produced a wide variety of films over the last 30 years, including Christopher Nolan's breakthrough film, "Memento," which earned two Oscar nominations. Her film credits include "Boiler Room," "Must Love Dogs," "Prime," "Across the Universe," "Alice in Wonderland," "Celeste and Jesse Forever," "Alice through the Looking Glass," "Live by Night," "The Way Back," "The Thursday Murder Club" and the "Austin Powers" franchise. Todd also co-produced the 89th and 90th Oscars, alongside producer Michael De Luca. Both broadcasts were nominated for "Outstanding Special Class Program" and "Outstanding Variety Special (Live)" at the 69th and 70th Emmy Awards, respectively.
The Honorary Award 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 Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award is presented to a creative producer whose body of work reflects a consistently high quality of motion picture production.
The 17th Governors Awards are presented in partnership with Rolex, the Exclusive Watch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Rolex is supporting the Governors Awards through its partnership with the Academy, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering excellence, achievement and the transfer of cinematic knowledge to the next generation.
ABOUT THE ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES:
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's premier film organization and is home to a global membership of more than 11,000 of the most accomplished film industry artists and leaders. The Academy connects global audiences – its members, the film industry, and film fans – through their shared passion for making and watching films. The Academy does this by recognizing and celebrating the arts and sciences of moviemaking through renowned awards for cinematic achievement, including the Oscars, the Governors Awards, and the Scientific and Technical Awards. The Academy's affiliated charitable organization, the Academy Foundation, serves a public benefit through its robust educational, preservation and cultural activities. This includes the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the world's largest global film museum, the Academy Collection, the largest film-related collection in the world, and talent development programs for emerging artists. Year-round, the Academy creates opportunities for all communities to engage with the film world.
ABOUT ROLEX AND CINEMA:
Rolex celebrates human achievement as a journey marked by milestones, emotions and defining moments. For more than half a century, the brand has partnered some of the world's most talented artists and leading cultural institutions to promote excellence and the transmission of artistic heritage, creating a link between the past, present and future. Through the Perpetual Arts Initiative, a broad portfolio of arts that extends through architecture, cinema, dance, music, literature, theatre and visual arts, the brand confirms its long-term commitment to global culture. 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 supported 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, which recognize lifetime achievement and humanitarian efforts in the film industry. Rolex also sponsors Film at Lincoln Center as Official Partner and Exclusive Timepiece. The company promotes achievement through Testimonees such as James Cameron, Leonardo DiCaprio, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Martin Scorsese, Zendaya and Jia Zhang-Ke. It also assists in the preservation of film history for future generations as a Founding Supporter of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, as a partner of The Film Foundation and through its support to the National Film and Television School in the UK.
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