Author: Sandrine

  • Violent Night 2 in the Works from Tommy Wirkola

    Violent Night 2 in the Works from Tommy Wirkola

    As the holiday season has ended, kind of. But that doesn’t mean the season of giving is done and one film that keeps on giving is Violent Night, the action-packed, Bad Santa meets Die Hard sensation that took the box office by storm. Directed by Tommy Wirkola and starring David Harbour as a Norse warrior-turned-Santa Claus; the film was a sleeper hit, grossing over $75 million globally on a budget of only $20 million, and earning even more from its PVOD release. What executive wouldn’t love those numbers in their stocking stuffer?

    And because of that, the success of Violent Night won’t end there – fans can expect to see more of Harbour’s Santa as Wirkola confirms that a sequel is in the works.

    “We’re talking about it and we’re just making deals and getting everything in order.

    Wirkola

    However, fans won’t have to hold their breath for the next installment as the team plans to take their time in developing the script.

    The second film will be written by Pat Casey and Josh Miller and will delve deeper into the traditional Santa Claus mythology with a Violent Night twist.

    There’s stuff we left on the floor like the North Pole, Mrs. Claus, the elves, But story-wise I think we have a really, really cool idea that expands on the world and scope, but still keeping that tone that we love from the first one.”

    Wirkola

    Referring to the setting of the first film in a Connecticut mansion.

    As the team continues to develop the script, fans can rest assured that they will be in for a treat as Violent Night 2 promises to be even more action-packed and thrilling than the first. But remember, Santa is always watching and he’s got a list, so be good boys and girls because Violent Night 2 will only happen if you are.

  • Jonathan Majors Shines in Magazine Dreams

    Jonathan Majors Shines in Magazine Dreams

    A Raw and Unforgiving Exploration of Fury and Self-Destruction.

    When a filmmaker sets out to captivate an audience and make a powerful statement, one tried and true method is to craft a pulse-pounding climax that combines the grit of Pulp Fiction with the glitz of Boogie Nights. In Magazine Dreams, writer-director Elijah Bynum delivers just that, with a scene that will leave audiences breathless.

    The film follows the story of Killian Maddox, a bodybuilder portrayed by criminally talented Jonathan Majors, whose obsession with physical perfection and unbridled rage lead to a descent into self-destruction. Majors delivers a powerhouse performance as Killian, becoming a bodybuilder himself for the role, and imbuing the character with a vulnerability and intensity that is truly mesmerizing.

    As Killian’s obsession with achieving the perfect physique takes over his life, he becomes increasingly isolated and violent, turning to steroids and consuming 6,000 calories a day in pursuit of his goal. But despite his rough exterior, there is a gentleness and thoughtfulness to Killian that makes it impossible not to root for him.

    The film explores the destructive nature of obsession and the toxic masculinity that can accompany it, as Killian’s single-minded pursuit of the cover of a magazine like his idol Brad Vanderhorn (Michael O’Hearn) begins to unravel his life. It’s a raw and unflinching look at the dangers of fixating on an unattainable ideal, and the cost it can have on one’s mental and physical well-being.

    Backed by a soundtrack that includes Patti Smith‘s rendition of Because the Night, Magazine Dreams is a film that will leave a lasting impression. Majors delivers a standout performance, it’s a must-watch for fans of powerful and thought-provoking cinema.

  • Want to Break Into Cinema? Perform in An Indie Film!

    Want to Break Into Cinema? Perform in An Indie Film!

    Breaking into the Big Screen and The Power of Indie Films in Launching An Acting Career

    What does Jenna Ortega, Florence Pugh, and Alexandra Daddario in common? According to this IMDb list, they are all three top actresses in Hollywood. And playing a part in an indie film has been the turning point of many actors’ and actresses’ careers. But in the cutthroat world of Hollywood, breaking into the film industry can be a daunting task for aspiring actors. Yet, for those willing to take a risk and step outside of the mainstream, indie films can be the key to launching a successful career.

    Indie films are typically produced outside of the studio system and have a lower budget compared to Hollywood films. They offer actors the opportunity to take on more challenging and diverse roles, as well as the chance to work with up-and-coming directors and writers.

    One of the most famous examples of an actor breaking into the mainstream through indie films is Jennifer Lawrence. She got her start in the indie film Winter’s Bone in 2010 and later went on to win an Oscar for her role in Silver Linings Playbook and played the lead in The Hunger Games franchise.

    These type of films also offer actors the opportunity to showcase their range and versatility, something that can be difficult to do in mainstream films. By taking on challenging and complex roles in indie films, actors can demonstrate their talent and versatility to casting directors and industry professionals.

    But how can independent films benefit upcoming and talent? Mainly for the following 5 Reasons : 

    • The chance to grow as an actor.
    • It keeps your acting skills sharp for future projects.
    • Gain footage for your showreel
    • Network by working with professionals  
    • It could launch your career

    Indie films also have a reputation for being more experimental and innovative, and as such are often able to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and filmmaking. This can be a draw for actors looking to push their own boundaries and take on more challenging and meaningful roles.

    But it’s not just the acting opportunities that make indie films a valuable platform for aspiring actors. Indie films also offer the chance to network and build relationships with industry professionals, which can be crucial in advancing one’s career.

    Despite the challenges and risks involved in working on indie films, they can provide a powerful launchpad for actors looking to make a name for themselves in the film industry. By taking the leap and getting involved in indie films, actors can gain the recognition and exposure they need to break into the mainstream and achieve success on the big screen.

    As the industry continues to evolve, indie films will continue to play an important role in discovering new talent and pushing the boundaries of storytelling. For actors looking to make a name for themselves in the film industry, indie films are a powerful tool that should not be overlooked.