Lauren Bowles is known best for her role of Holly Clearly in HBO’s “True Blood”. She recently appeared in “Curb Your Enthusiasm” with her husband Patrick Fishler. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Lauren about here role in “True Blood” as well as working with the Farrelly Brothers.

Mike Gencarelli: What do you like most about working on “True Blood”?
Lauren Bowles: The craziest part about it is I was a huge fan before I was even cast to be on the series. The first time I walked on to the Merlot’s set wearing the short shorts and the iconic t-shirt, I truly felt like I was Dorothy walking out into Oz. I was this ultimate fan that somehow infiltrated this world. It was absolutely surreal and it’s been a dream come true!

MG: How do you prepare for your character, Holly Clearly?
LB: There’s not that much that goes into but I do have my Aunt Josie who helps me Southern my accent up some, as she is from North Carolina. She’s not quite a Bayou girl but I have family from the South, so it’s helped with the accent. I always make sure that I know the scene and my lines as well as having the right emotion. I did do some reading on the Wiccan religion also.

MG: How is it working with the rest of the cast?
LB: This is where I am going to sound like I am telling you udder bullshit (Laughs) but it is the most awesome set. You can generally get all the best scuttlebutt from hair and make-up. So on my very first day I asked them for the skinny and they told me everyone is awesome. She was truly right as there are no bad apples. I am so happy to be on the set as it’s very blissful. I have worked a long time in this business and this type of set up is very rare.

MG: What can we expect from your character Holly throughout the rest of the season?
LB: I can’t really say too much however I can tell you that she is definitely learning the scope of her witchcraft power and at some times is conflicted by it. I can also say that there also might be a little loving coming Holly’s way.

MG: How do you feel that this show has compared to the other that you have worked on in the past?
LB: It so unique. There are a couple shows that I have been a regular on but lately I have been doing a lot of guest spots. When you get that one shot where you can develop a character it’s so much nicer. The major bonus “True Blood” has over a lot of network formula based shows is that it’s really character driven.

MG: You have worked with Farrelly brothers on a couple films can you give us a little back ground on those?
LB: I have actually worked with them on three projects and there are not enough accolades I can give them! They are just really great guys and I love them so much. They are obviously these huge Hollywood comedy directors but you would never know in meeting them. They are just so chill and relaxed. They like to cast well and let the actors have fun. What they will do is shoot one scripted take and then let the actors go from there. I love working with them!

MG: Do you have any other projects coming up?
LB: My husband, Patrick and I just did and episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” which just aired. It was great that we both got to be in it as we never get to play husband and wife. The end the season shooting for “True Blood” was just so crazy. So I am just relaxing and spending some time with my daughter for now but I am planning to do some theater work in the coming Fall.

Brett Wagner is known best for his work in the horror genre in such films as “The Crazies” and the upcoming “ChromeSkull: Laid to Rest 2”.  Brett has also been the host of Speed TV’s “Pass Time”.  Movie Mikes had a chance to chat with Brett about this roles and also what he has planned next.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you tell us what it was like working with Robert Hall in “ChromeSkull: Laid to Rest 2”?
Brett Wagner: I started working with Robert Hall almost 8 years ago. I worked on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and he and I became friends. He suggested me to the directors and casting people of “Angel” for the part of Bohg’dar the demon, which was great because I didn’t have to audition. We have just stayed friends for a long time and all of a sudden I booked a part on “The Crazies”. I called and told Rob and he told me he was doing the make-up on that movie, which was pretty cool. Rob has always looked out for parts for me which is how my role as a cop in “Laid to Rest 2” came about. I told him as long as I die a disgusting death I was down for it. I always get excited when Rob gets some work or a new movie especially if I get to be in it. Rob is really easy to work with as a director as he is a real hand’s on guy. He will often give you suggestions and if you’re doing good he just lets you do your thing which is great. Rob is very calm and you don’t feel stress on his shoots. I have been on big shoots were things are very crazy and it’s not comfortable.

MG: Can you tell us about working on “The Crazies” and did you have any high light moments that stick out?
BW: Breck Eisner was a fairly young director as he had only directed a few things but he was tremendous to work with. Chris Carnel who was the stunt coordinator on that film trusted me tremendously with the fighting stuff we were doing. Chris asked me if I would mind doing a ¾ burn for the fight scene with Timothy Olyphant. I had done a little bit of burn stuff before so I told him yes and it was pretty awesome to be lit on fire. The guys wanted me to do the full burn as well but I didn’t want to take money out of my stunt doubles mouth. Breck is another real hands on guy and it was very exciting. We had taken some pictures of my makeup and I got on the cover of Fangoria magazine. For a guy that loves horror that was like an orgasm!

MG: What can you tell us about your upcoming film “Machine Gun Preacher”?
BW: I play a guy by the name of Ben Hobbs and the film is going to be tremendous! It’s a true story about Sam Childers who was an ex-biker, drug dealer bad guy who found God and decides to start helping people. Sam made his way to the Sudan and saw how people were being violently forced into joining the Army. Sam taught these people how to fight and defend themselves. Getting to work with Gerard Butler was really cool as I am a big fan. My scene in the film is actually with Gerard. I gave him a copy of “The Crazies” which he thought was cool. The director Marc Foster was also really great to work with. We had gone in to do some voice over’s and I asked him what his next film was going to be. He told me it was a zombie movie that I probably wouldn’t want to be interested in. (Laughs) The film is “World War Z” with Brad Pitt. I sent his assistant a bunch of my photo’s as I know Marc was joking about me not being interested in doing the film. I would love to work with him again. I am really excited for the premiere.

MG: You also do a lot of hosting especially with “Pass Time” what can you tell us about that?
BW: I have been doing “Pass Time” for about four years now and we have shot 160 episodes. I love drag racing and it’s great to have blue collar guys who work 60 hrs. a week and race on the weekends come out. That’s basically who I am. I’m not one of those giant celebrities. I dig getting out there and meeting the people. I have been very lucky and got to travel all over with the Speed channel filming and making appearances. We are the only drag racing show on Speed channel right now. It keeps me in the public eye and I love to travel. I also enjoy having a tasty beverage with some of the drivers.

MG: Can you tell us about the book you just wrote?
BW: I wrote a book with a friend of by the name of Bruce Collins, who is a pro wrestling fanatic. I actually did some pro wrestling back in the day. The book is called “The Big Shwag’s Positive Self- Help Guide for Complete Losers Like You”. I used to go by the Big Shwag when I was on “Monster Garage” and when I did pro wrestling. Bruce came to me and said we should do a book. I told him I could barely tie my shoe and asked how we were going to write a book. Bruce said we will do a self help book. I again told him I can’t help myself how am I going to help other people? We sat down and spent seven months writing chapter by chapter and it turned out really good and funny. I am very proud of it. My nephew who was 16 read it and told me it wasn’t a bad book. (Laughs) I also had a friend of mine’s father who is a big proponent of Alcoholics Anonymous tell me that the book should be read by everyone in the program. If someone gets a laugh while sitting on the toilet then that’s great! It’s a four seater read. In about four trips to the bathroom you should have it read. You can pick it up at Amazon.com.

MG: Any other upcoming projects you can tell us about?
BW: I am really stoked for the film I did called “John Dies at the End” to come out. The film was originally a book that people really wanted to become a film. Don Coscarelli who is a hero of mine in the horror movie business was looking for someone for the opening of the film. He had seen my cover of Fangoria magazine and wanted something similar. The person he had said that to told him he knew me and they contacted Rob Hall who then contacted me asking if I wanted to work with Don. I am really excited for it. I am also working on selling some TV shows one I am working on right now is called “Fast Talkers”. I also am working on a film script with the writers of the film “Hide and Creep” which is kind of a U.S. version of “Shaun of the Dead” except with redneck zombies. I think we could get some real money to go out and shoot this project.

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SCARFACE EXPLODES BACK INTO MOVIE THEATERS LIKE NEVER BEFORE TO “SAY HELLO TO MY LITTLE FRIEND!” IN A ONE-NIGHT SPECIAL EVENT
* * * * *
Presented by NCM Fathom and Universal Studios Home Entertainment in More Than 475 Select Movie Theaters Nationwide on August 31

Special Event Includes the Debut of Exclusive Featurette Showcasing the Pop Culture Phenomenon That Redefined the Gangster Genre

Centennial, Colo. – August 1, 2011 – Blasting onto the silver screen with the intensity of its original release nearly 30 years ago, the pop culture phenomenon Scarface, starring Al Pacino and directed by Brian De Palma, returns to movie theaters in a one-night Fathom event on Wednesday, August 31 at 7:30 p.m. local time. Presented by NCM Fathom and Universal Studios Home Entertainment, audiences nationwide will get the opportunity to experience one of the most influential gangster classics ever made like never before — with all-new restored high-definition picture and enhanced audio. Fans who attend this special event will also get an exclusive look at a 20-minute special feature that showcases interviews with popular filmmakers and talent expressing how this epic feature redefined the gangster genre, leaving an enduring influence on cinema.

Tickets for the Scarface Special Event are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The Scarface Special Event will appear in more than 475 select movie theaters across the country via the new digital cinema projection systems.

“Almost 30 years after its initial release, Scarface remains iconic and stirs passionate responses from audiences around the world,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of NCM Fathom. “Now, fans can experience Scarface like never before in theaters with spectacularly updated visual and sound quality, and never-before-seen elements in an historic, one-night event.”

Scarface is a 1983 American crime drama and masterful collaboration between acclaimed director Brian De Palma and Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Oliver Stone. Produced by Martin Bregman, Academy Award® winner Al Pacino stars as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who finds wealth, power and passion beyond his wildest dreams…at a price he never imagined. Scarface was nominated for three Golden Globe® Awards (including Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor and Best Original Score), and was named one of the Top 10 Gangster Films of All Time by the American Film Institute.

This one-night, in-theater event celebrates the first-ever Blu-rayTM release of Scarface on September 6 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Fans of Scarface will enjoy the restored high-definition picture and 7.1 audio plus see exclusive new bonus content that reveals the film’s iconic legacy as one of the greatest crime sagas of all time. For a limited time only, the Scarface Special Limited Edition Blu-rayTM comes with collectible SteelBookTM packaging, 10 exclusive art cards, a digital copy of the film and a DVD of the original 1932 Scarface, making it a must-own addition to every film fan’s library. And, for the ultimate collector and cigar enthusiast, an elegantly hand-crafted Scarface-themed humidor will also be made available in an exclusive, never-before-available, limited edition.

Local Theaters in Orlando include:
Altamonte Mall 18 with IMAX
West Oaks 14
Pointe Orlando with IMAX
Waterford Lakes Stadium 20 with IMAX
Merritt Square 16
Hollywood

Here is the new trailer for LIKE CRAZY. The film is currently scheduled to release on October 28. Please take a look and let us know what you think.

SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
BEST PICTURE – GRAND JURY PRIZE
BEST ACTRESS – SPECIAL JURY PRIZE

ACADEMY AWARD NOMINEE
ANTON YELCHIN        FELICITY JONES       JENNIFER LAWRENCE

Here is the newly released final one-sheet from THE MUPPETS,  The film opens in theaters everywhere on November 23rd!

Website and Mobile site: Disney.com/Muppets
Become a fan on Facebook: Facebook.com/Muppets
Follow us on Twitter: Twitter.com/MuppetsStudio

Genre: Family Comedy
Rating: TBD
U.S. Release Date: November 23, 2011

Cast: Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper and Walter
Director: James Bobin
Producers: David Hoberman, Todd Lieberman
Executive Producers: Jason Segel, Nicholas Stoller, Martin G. Baker
Writers: Jason Segel, Nicholas Stoller

On vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan, and his friends Gary (Jason Segel) and Mary (Amy Adams) from Smalltown, USA, discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze the Muppet Theater and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets’ former stomping grounds. To stage The Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever and raise the $10 million needed to save the theater, Walter, Mary and Gary help Kermit reunite the Muppets, who have all gone their separate ways: Fozzie now performs with a Reno casino tribute band called the Moopets, Miss Piggy is a plus-size fashion editor at Vogue Paris, Animal is in a Santa Barbara clinic for anger management, and Gonzo is a high-powered plumbing magnate. With secret, signature, celebrity cameos, “The Muppets” hits the big screen Nov. 23, 2011.

Notes:
· Funnyman Jason Segel (TV’s “How I Met Your Mother,” “Forgetting Sarah Marshall”) stars in, co-writes and executive produces “The Muppets.”
· “The Muppets” is directed by James Bobin, who was a director/writer/EP for HBO’s “Flight of the Conchords.”
· Kermit received a star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2002. His song “The Rainbow Connection” was nominated for an Academy Award®.
· Bret McKenzie, who starred in, wrote for and served as composer for HBO’s “Flight of the Conchords,” is the music supervisor for “The Muppets,” as well as the writer/producer on some of the songs, which include big Muppet-style opening and closing numbers.
· It’s been 11 years since the Muppets’ last big-screen feature film.

When Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan, and friends Gary (Jason Segel) and Mary (Amy Adams) discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze the Muppet Theater, they help Kermit reunite the Muppets to stage The Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever and raise the $10 million needed to save the theater.

ThunderCats is a reboot of the original (1984–1990) series by Ted Wolf. It is produced by Warner Bros. Animation with animation provided by the Japanese Studio 4°C. The series follows the adventures of a group of cat-like humanoid aliens living on the planet Third Earth, and Lion-O’s ascension to the Thunderian throne. The new series began with an hour-long premiere on Cartoon Network on July 29, 2011, with new episodes every Friday. Media Mikes had a chance to interview a few of the voice’s behind the show’s characters. Hope you enjoy these.

THUNDERCATS CAST INTERVIEWS:

Matt Mercer is voicing the character Tygra in the 2011 reboot of “Thundercats”. Matt has also done voice work for animes including “Akira” to “Ninja Scroll” to “Fist of the North Star”. Movie Mikes took out some time to chat with Matt about “Thundercats” as well as his other projects.

Mike Gencarelli: How did you get started doing voice work?
Mathew Mercer: I always had a fascination with cartoons and video games growing up. As far back as Mel Blanc, and some of the older cartoons I just loved the characterizations and the ability to perform multiple voices through one person. I never thought it was a viable option for a living let alone a career until about 4 years ago. I was doing a lot of theater and making some network connections and just decided to give it a shot. I left my day job and went to a bunch of classes and workshops where I worked my ass off and lived on top ramen for awhile. I did a lot of hard work and was prepared for opportunities and the rest is history!

MG: Can you tell us about how you got involved with your latest project “Thundercats”?
MM: I had gotten an email from my agent regarding a secret project that no one could talk about even with other actors at the agency but she was having people come in an audition for the project. I saw the word Lion-O on the script and my inner 6 year old started freaking out. I went in and read for Lion-O and Tygra. I kept telling myself that I had to book this and went over the copies a bunch of times. I even went into the booth directors to tell them that they had to help me book this because I needed it! I went in and read for it and gave it my all. I didn’t hear anything for some time and was pretty sure I didn’t get it. I got a call from my agent and she told me they had a new nick name for me at the office. I figured they had just gotten drunk at the last office party and came up with something. They proceeded to tell me that it was Tygra. I did kart wheels like an actual 6 year old and it’s been a wild ride ever since.

MG: Did you go back and re-watch some of the old episodes in preparation?
MM: Oh yeah! I got together with some friends and writing partners and we watched the first six episodes or so. It was a wonderful evening of nostalgia.

MG: You also worked on a number of anime series, can you tell us about that and do you have a current anime series favorite?
MM: Those were some of the first projects I had ever worked on. They really wet my appetite. At the time I was a really big anime fan. Getting to be a part of “Ninja Scroll” and “Akira” to name a few was very fulfilling as a geek. It was a really fun process to be involved with and I met a lot of people that I am still working with today. As far as my favorite anime I am a big fan Hayao Miyazaki’s work as far as films goes. As far as series I would have to go with “Cowboy Bebop”. It has just such great characters and writing. It’s a perfect example of blending styles that you wouldn’t expect together. The music its self made the project. It created its own atmosphere that hasn’t been rivaled since.

MG: Tell us about your work on “Fist of the North Star” and “Akira”. Were those early in your career as well?
MM: Oh yeah. “Akira” was technically the first main character I got to work on. I did a few one off characters like on “Fist of the North Star” where you spent 3 hours shouting till your explodes which was a lot of fun. It roughed the voice up for the next morning. “Akira” was cool because I was a fan of the original film. When I heard they were doing a re-dub with up dated translation I asked the director specifically if I could audition because of my personal interest. Getting to be a part of that was majestic and exciting.

MG: More recently you voiced Stryker in the new “Mortal Kombat” video game. Do you feel working on video games differs from films or television shows?
MM: It very much differs. There is a whole different feel than when you are on camera. When you’re shooting in front of a camera the other actors are there as well as you have costumes and rehearsals. Voice over most of the time is cold reading in a booth where you are isolated from everyone and everything else. You have to kind of create the world on your mind and give a believable performance. You have to be a little crazy for voice over work.

MG: What can you tell us about the film “Dead Inside”?
MM: It’s a psychological, thriller, horror film that was directed by Pearry Teo. I am really excited about this film because it’s an ensemble piece that takes the classic “teens in a house” horror film and puts a unique and intense spin on that with great story arc. Unlike a lot of horror films today that relies on jump scares and splashy gore this film is very reminiscent of the original “Aliens”. It’s more about what you don’t see and what’s in the shadows. This film lets your mind fill in the blanks thus making it more scary. I am really excited about this film and I think it’s going to be debuting at Sundance.

MG: You directed the web series “There Will Be Brawl”. Any future plans for more directing?
MM: I have a few projects in the works. “There Will Be Brawl” was a pretty intense year of my life. A lot of creative energy went into that project and most of my free time went towards all of the different aspects of that project. I was burned out for about a year. I got the bug back recently and have a few projects in pre-production. Keep your eyes open for stuff to start popping up.

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Directed by: David Dobkin
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman, Leslie Mann
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Rated R
Running time: 112 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

It is really rare that a film is extremely funny, raunchy and also has a great heart. Most films have one of the three and fail on the others. “The Change-Up” is easily one of the funniest films of the year. The combo of Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman is a match made in heaven. I would like to point out that besides this being on hell of a funny film, it is also one of the raunchiest and dirtiest movies I have ever seen (in a good way). I found myself covering my face wondering how the hell did they get away with this throughout the film.

The story has been told before but never like this. Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) and Dave (Jason Bateman), are friends who believe that the other has a better life and while peeing into a magic fountain, they wish for each other’s life. Obviously it works and Mitch and Dave switch their bodies. Since they are two completely different people is why this film works so well. Mitch is a complete slack off that never sees anything through and Dave is a perfectionist that has big plans for his career. Mitch and Dave set out to make things right and get their lives back. Of course mucho hilarity ensues.

Jason Bateman is known for playing his typical role of guys like Dave in the film…but when he switches to the role of Mitch, it really shows a whole other side to him. He definitely steals the show and shines in this film. Would love to see him take on more roles like this. Ryan Reynolds is know for playing the action hero and slacker role and is perfect as the up tight perfectionist while playing the character of Dave. Don’t let me forget the women in the film, Leslie Mann and Olivia Wilde both are fun in this film. Leslie knocks it dead with her character and even shows some skin (bonus). Olivia Wilde is funny as the very forward co-worker of Dave, also shows some skin (double bonus).

I just want to say again how funny this film is and how over the top it is. When you think the shock and awe is done and the film is going to drop it adds some great heart and when it gets too much it just right back into the comedy. Perfect combination of the two. Make sure to leave the kids at home for this one definitely and get ready to laugh and enjoy this excellent film.

Starring: James Franco, Frieda Pinto and Andy Serkis
Directed by: Rupert Wyatt
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 45 minutes
20th Century Fox

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When I first heard about this movie I was thinking why!  Then I thought about it and wondered what could have happened to cause the Apes in today’s times to take over and mankind to be slaves.  Well this movie does just that and does it very well, that it is very believable.

The film begins with of course the capturing of chimpanzee’s to bring back to the lab for experiments.  Dr. Will Rodman (James Franco) is on the verge of finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and other ailments that attack the brain.  Not only would this cure it but make you smarter.  But with no side effects?  Of course things go wrong and that leads to the developing story line to the rise of the apes.

The special effects are absolutely amazing.  Watching Caesar grow and evolve in the movie is definitely worth it.  You can see him thinking and feeling very clearly, which you can also tell that he will eventually be up to no good….you would too if you went through what he did. The facial expressions of Caesar are very lifelike. This is due to the amazing work of WETA and performance capture from Andy Serkis. Also watching Caesar rally the troops and climb to the top is well done.  I do not want to say too much otherwise it would ruin the movie for you.  You will just have to go and see it.

The movie does start off slow but that is made up for the great storyline and character development.  There is not a lot of action but don’t let that stop you from seeing this movie.  I feel that this movie was very well done and the story line was great despite the lack of action.  Also when the movie is over don’t just get up and leave!

Starring: James Franco, Frieda Pinto and Andy Serkis
Directed by: Rupert Wyatt
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 45 minutes
20th Century Fox

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

CLICK HERE for our interview with the film’s writers Amanda Silver and Rick Jaffa.

What can I say about the “Planet of the Apes” films? As a child of the late 60’s and early 70’s, nothing beat a film about talking monkeys! There were five original films in all (the last one, “Battle for the Planet of the Apes,” released when “Rise” director Rupert Wyatt is one year old). There followed an animated series as well as a weekly television show. And of course, back in the days before home video, there was that rare day each summer when the local theatre would hold an “APE-a-thon,” and my friends and I would spend most of a day in the darkness, watching each film. Tim Burton “re-imagined” “Planet of the Apes” in 2001, though he confused a lot of people with the ending (which was based on the ending in Pierre Boulle’s original novel). The two things I remember most about the Burton version is that Helena Bonham Carter really looked a lot like Michael Jackson and that, in what I thought was pretty ironic, NRA President (and original “Planet of the Apes” visitor) Charlton Heston was the only character that had a gun! With four decades of “Ape” enjoyment under my belt, I was a little skeptical when I learned of “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” Happily, I needn’t have worried.

Modern day San Francisco. In a large, foreboding research facility, an ape nicknamed “Bright Eyes” is working a puzzle. Her skills impress those watching her. Bright Eyes is part of an experimental drug program. The goal: develop a way to reverse and cure Alzheimer’s Disease in humans. The cause is very close to head researcher Will Rodman’s (Franco) heart…his father (John Lithgow) is suffering from the disease. When an apparent successful demonstration of the drug goes terribly wrong, Will’s research is put on hold. On his way out the door he takes a newborn chimp with him. Not one to take “no” for an answer, Will continues his work, using his dad as a guinea pig. As for the chimp…well there wouldn’t be a movie if not for him.

Full of some fine tips of the hat to the original series (a list of some of them follow this review), “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” is a smartly directed film that sits squarely on the shoulders of Andy Serkis. Serkis, whose performance as Golum in the “Lord of the Rings” films should have earned him an Oscar nomination or two (or three…he was ruled ineligible because the onscreen character was computer generated) is Caesar, the baby chimp all grown up. With a rapidly growing IQ but with the innocence of a child, Serkis gives Caesar, and the film, its soul. After spending many years living with Will, Caesar is discovered and sent to live in a primate house, overseen by a bureaucratic Brian Cox. There he is mistreated by both the handlers and the other apes, who do not easily accept a clothes-wearing ape. As Caesar battles with his kind Will must do the same, hoping to find a vaccine that will return his father back to him. The similarities between Will and his dad, and Caesar and Will, become more and more highlighted as the film progresses. Caesar considers Will his father and cannot understand the changes in his life. Ditto for Will and HIS dad.

Wyatt, who also directed 2008’s “The Escapist,” which also starred Brian Cox, stages the film well, most notably when the film centers itself on the Golden Gate Bridge. You may have heard of gorillas in the mist…try dealing with gorillas in the fog!

Click here to read another favorable review from our guest writer Angelo Casciorizzo Jr.

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PAYING HOMAGE
“Rise of the Planet of the Apes” recalls previous films.

SPOILER ALERT: As mentioned above, there are several references to the early series of “Ape” films. Here are a few that I noticed:

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The first ape we meet is Bright Eyes. Bright Eyes was the name given to Colonel Taylor (Heston) in the first film by the ape scientists.

An orangutan in the film is named Maurice. Maurice Evans played Dr. Zaius, an orangutan, in the original film.

To control him, Caesar’s handlers use a fire hose. The same thing was done to Taylor.

In one scene the apes in the primate house become very noisy, causing one of the handlers to yell “It’s a Madhouse!” Taylor thought the same thing.

Early in the film Caesar plays with a model of the Statue of Liberty. The Statue plays an important role in the original film.

One of the characters is named Dr. Cornelia. One of the ape scientists in the first film was Dr. Cornelius, played by Roddy McDowall.

After an altercation one of the ape handlers utters the classic line, “take your paws off of me you damn, dirty ape!.” Once again, courtesy of Colonel Taylor in the original.

Amanda Silver & Rick Jaffa are the husband and wife duo behind the screenplay for “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”. The couple has worked together on various projects, including “Eye For An Eye” and “The Relic”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Amanda and Rick about how they came up with the idea for “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” and we came across with one amazing story.

Mike Gencarelli: What do you like most about collaborating with each other?
Amanda Silver: We are married, which I’m not sure if you knew or not but, we have been writing together for about 20 years. The collaboration just works. We each have different strengths and we complement each other very well. Because we have been doing this so long there is kind of a short hand in how we communicate.
Rick Jaffa: We also have certain rules since we are married and raising a family which we kind of established in the beginning which we really don’t need to apply anymore but, for example if one of us has the lead in a project and or it was their idea that person would ultimately have veto power if there was some sort of creative road block or disagreement. The truth is we thought we would just establish that if there was ever any trouble and I don’t think there ever has been. Maybe in the very beginning but we just will work things out and find solutions together. For a husband and wife it’s been a really fun adventure. It just works out really well.

MG: How did you become attached to “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”?
AS: That was actually Rick’s idea. It was a genius idea as Rick was cutting out these articles he was interested in about chimps being raised like children in a home setting.
RJ: Especially when the chimps become teenagers which in chimp years is about 7 or 8 years old. During that time the chimps become bigger and stronger and really are not meant to live in a home. A lot of the attacks you read about are during this time of development because the chimps are acting as the animal they are supposed to be.
AS: Rick had been staring at the articles for almost two years and all of the sudden he had the idea for “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” We at the time had no idea where Fox was with the franchise and what they were developing. We had worked for Fox before and knew one of the executives really well, so we brought this idea to him. Luckily they had nothing in the works and reslly liked our idea. They then bought our idea and had us write and produce the film.

MG: What did you find as your most challenging part of rebooting the series?
RJ: Our attitude was going to be as though the Tim Burton movie never happened. We are huge fans of certain aspects of the Tim’s film but ultimately we knew that if we were going to pull this film off we would have to act as though that film had never happened. We wanted to craft a story that could stand on its own while still paying respect to the original movies and allow younger people who don’t know much about the “Planet of the Apes” franchise to become familiar with the story.

MG: Since this is a prequel, are there any hints or tributes to the original films/series?
AS: Yes. Throughout the entire film there are easter eggs, as we call them. Rick was much better at this than I was. There are little hints such as character names and other things, but I am not going to give anything away. For the people who love “Planet of the Apes” there are a lot of fun things in there for them.
RJ: Some things are really obvious, while others are so obscure that I don’t think people will be able to put them together. I don’t even know how we were able to. (Laughs) There are lots of nods to the original and hints to where the story could go which is a nod to the original mythology of the series.

MG: Is it safe to say you are shaping this to become a new franchise?
AS: We will have to wait and see about that as the film has yet to open. There are characters that we have created for this film that we can’t wait to see what will happen. The premise of the film is what would have to happen today currently in 2011 to eventually get Colonel Taylor on that beach some 3,900 years from now. The apes that we created are present day apes.
RJ: When you see the movie and it feels like we are setting up for a sequel. We know that if the film does well and a sequel presents itself then there are very specific ideas as to what we would like to do. Now that there is a whole kind of “Ape” team made up of the Chernin Company along with Dylan Clark and the Fox team. Everyone has been great to work with and I am sure they all have ideas about where they think the film could go. Amanda and I have very specific ideas but no one has talked about as they are afraid to jinx it I think.

MG: How was it working with Rupert Wyatt and did he have any input on the story?
AS: He was spectacular! Rupert really gave us great notes on the script and when he came on he helped shape the movie. His job was huge on this movie as he had to get not only the script right but he had to cast the right people as well. Rupert also had to communicate with WETA, which is the group responsible for the visual effects and performance capture. He really had to make sure that all the performances were translated from the actors.
RJ: Rupert was a really great listener and collaborator. He would stick to his point of view but would listen and be open to everyone else’s thoughts. He really hung in there despite all the pressure which was present very early on at the start.

MG: Do you guys have any other upcoming projects?
RJ: We just turned in a re-write of a script for Sony, which is a big action/time travel project that we are really excited about. We also are pitching some television ideas, as it is that time of the year. We are also developing some of our own stuff along. With the heat coming of the movie, we have started to receive some things for consideration as well.

Open Road Films will be releasing their new film KILLER ELITE on September 23, 2011. Based on the book “The Feather Men” by Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

About the film:
Based on a true story, Killer Elite races across the globe from Australia to Paris, London and the Middle East in the action-packed account of an ex-special ops agent (Jason Statham) who is lured out of retirement to rescue his mentor (Robert De Niro). To make the rescue, he must complete a near-impossible mission of killing three tough-as-nails assassins with a cunning leader (Clive Owen).

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Check out some of the awesome films that Lionsgate has planned for the the Fall.

CONAN THE BARBARIAN 
Release Date: August 19, 2011
Starring: Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang, Rose McGowan, and Ron Perlman
Directed by: Marcus Nispel
Written by: Thomas Dean Donnelly & Joshua Oppenheimer and Sean Hood
Based on the character of Conan as originally created by Robert E. Howard
*Please note this film will be in 3D

SYNOPSIS

“I live.  I love.  I slay…I am content.” – Conan The Barbarian

The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer.  Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination- in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan’s exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film.

A quest that begins as a personal vendetta for the fierce Cimmerian warrior soon turns into an epic battle against hulking rivals, horrific monsters, and impossible odds, as Conan realizes he is the only hope of saving the great nations of Hyboria from an encroaching reign of supernatural evil.

Deftly adapted from the original works of Robert E. Howard and faithful to the mythology and psychology of his iconic character, CONAN THE BARBARIAN stars Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang, Rose McGowan, Saïd Taghmaoui and Ron Perlman.  The film is directed by Marcus Nispel, and written by Thomas Dean Donnelly & Joshua Oppenheimer and Sean Hood. Lionsgate and Millennium Films present a Millennium Films in association with EFF Independent Productions and a Conan Properties International LLC production.

WARRIOR
Release Date: September 9, 2011
Starring: Joel Edgerton, Tom Hardy, Jennifer Morrison, and Nick Nolte
Directed by: Gavin O’Connor
Screenplay by: Gavin O’Connor & Anthony Tambakis & Cliff Dorfman
Story by: Gavin O’Connor & Cliff Dorfman

SYNOPSIS
Rising stars Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton command the screen as two estranged brothers facing the fight of a lifetime­ in Lionsgate’s WARRIOR, a moving, inspirational action drama from acclaimed director Gavin O’Connor (Miracle).

Haunted by a tragic past, Marine Tommy Conlon (Hardy) returns home for the first time in fourteen years to enlist the help of his father (Nick Nolte) to train for Sparta, the biggest winner-takes-all event in mixed martial arts history. A former wrestling prodigy, Tommy blazes a path toward the championship while his brother, Brendan (Edgerton), an ex-fighter-turned teacher, returns to the ring in a desperate bid to save his family from financial ruin.  But when Brendan’s unlikely, underdog rise sets him on a collision course with the unstoppable Tommy, the two brothers must finally confront each other and the forces that pulled them apart, facing off in the most soaring, soul stirring, and unforgettable climax that must be seen to be believed.

A rousing ode to redemption, reconciliation and the power of the human spirit, WARRIOR is also a moving testament to the enduring bonds of family.   WARRIOR stars Tom Hardy (the upcoming The Dark Knight Rises, Inception, Black Hawk Down), Joel Edgerton (Animal Kingdom, Star Wars: Episode III), Jennifer Morrison (“House”, Star Trek) and Nick Nolte (Tropic Thunder, The Thin Red Line).  The film is directed by Gavin O’Connor; screenplay by Gavin O’Connor & Anthony Tambakis & Cliff Dorman and story by Gavin O’Connor & Cliff Dorfman. Lionsgate and Mimran Schur Pictures present a Lionsgate and Mimran Schur Pictures production a Solaris Entertainment and Filmtribe production.

ABDUCTION 
Release Date: September 23, 2011
Starring: Taylor Lautner, Lily Collins, Alfred Molina, Jason Isaacs, Maria Bello and Sigourney Weaver
Directed by: John Singleton
Written by: Shawn Christensen

SYNOPSIS
Taylor Lautner stars as a young man unwittingly thrust into a deadly world of covert espionage in Lionsgate’s action-thriller, ABDUCTION, directed by John Singleton.
For as long as he can remember, Nathan Harper (Taylor Lautner) has had the uneasy feeling that he’s living someone else’s life. When he stumbles upon an image of himself as a little boy on a missing persons website, all of Nathan’s darkest fears come true: he realizes his parents are not his own and his life is a lie, carefully fabricated to hide something more mysterious and dangerous than he could have ever imagined.

Just as he begins to piece together his true identity, Nathan is targeted by a team of trained killers, forcing him on the run with the only person he can trust, his neighbor, Karen (Lily Collins). Every second counts as Nathan and Karen race to evade an army of assassins and federal operatives. But as his opponents close in, Nathan realizes that the only way he’ll survive – and solve the mystery of his elusive biological father – is to stop running and take matters into his own hands.
ABDUCTION stars Taylor Lautner, Lily Collins, Alfred Molina, Jason Isaacs, Maria Bello, Denzel Whitaker, Michael Nyqvist and Sigourney Weaver.    The film is directed by John Singleton and written by Shawn Christensen. Lionsgate presents, a Gotham Group / Vertigo Entertainment / Quick Six Entertainment production, a Lionsgate Production, in association with Mango Farms.

SAFE
Release Date: October 28^th, 2011
Starring: Jason Statham, Robert John Burke, Chris Sarandon, Anson Mount, and introducing Catherine Chan
Written and Directed by: Boaz Yakin

SYNPOPSIS
Written and directed by Boaz Yakin (REMEMBER THE TITANS), the action thriller SAFE is the story of a former elite agent (Jason Statham) who encounters and rescues a twelve-year-old Chinese girl who’s been abducted by the Triads. Armed with a safe-cracking combination, they find themselves in the middle of a stand-off between Triads, the Russian Mafia and high-level corrupt New York City politicians and police. The film is written and directed by Boaz Yakin. Lionsgate and IM Global present in association with Automatik a Lawrence Bender production in association with Trigger Street Productions and 87eleven, Inc.

All-Star Ensemble Comedy Unspools Stateside October 19, 2012

Santa Monica, CA, August 02, 2011– LIONSGATE® (NYSE: LGF), a leading global entertainment company, and Nu Image are thrilled to announce THE BIG WEDDING, a Nu Image / Millennium Films production that Lionsgate will be distributing in the U.S. and the U.K. The announcement was made jointly by Joe Drake, President of Lionsgate’s Motion Picture Group, Jason Constantine, Lionsgate’s President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions, and Avi Lerner, Founder and Co-Chairman of Nu Image, who is handling international sales of the film.

The film, which boasts an all star cast including Robert De Niro, Susan Sarandon, Diane Keaton, Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried, Robin Williams, Ben Barnes and Topher Grace, is currently shooting in Greenwich, Connecticut.

Written and directed by Justin Zackham (THE BUCKET LIST), the film centers around Don (De Niro) and Ellie (Keaton), a long divorced couple being forced to pretend that they are still happily married at their son’s wedding. Among all of their family and friends, the hoax snowballs into a poignant and raucously funny story about the ties that bind.

Nu Image’s Avi Lerner, Danny Dimbort and Trevor Short are executive producing, with Justin Zackham, Clay Pecorin, Richard Salvatore and Harry Ufland producing.

“THE BIG WEDDING is a charming, rollicking movie that promises to be an instant intergenerational family comedy classic,” explains Drake of the film’s appeal to the studio. “We are thrilled to be in business once again with Avi and Nu Image,” adds Constantine. “After our success together with action genre films like THE EXPENDABLES and the upcoming CONAN THE BARBARIAN, this film presented a wonderful opportunity to expand our collaborative horizons into the realm of broad comedy.”

“Our relationship with Lionsgate has always been mutually beneficial and one of great respect. A film like THE BIG WEDDING only reinforces that idea and takes our relationship to the next level,” says Lerner. “We know that Lionsgate’s faith in us to deliver on all of the potential of this comedy is well placed.”

Negotiations on behalf of Lionsgate were overseen by Constantine along with Lionsgate’s SVP of Acquisitions Eda Kowan and EVP of Business & Legal Affairs Wendy Jaffe.