Kung Fu Panda Mini Review (
)
by Amy Gilbert
We arrived early to watch it on IMAX, but the time we wanted was sold out. So we settled for a later showing which also sold out. Some parents even had their kids were sitting on the floor in front because the seats were full. Jack was at his usual "awesomeness" and the animation, colors and action were unbeatable. The boys were transfixed, stayed in their seats, and did not have to reminded once to act like they had been in public before. My household will be full of karate chopping and kung fu moves for many weeks.
An Earmuff Award nomination for the Heat Vision Voiceover Award: Jack Black!! Hands down. Damn, we need an Earmuff for best action sequence: Po and the Dumplings!
I wish the other big stars were used more. Jackie Chan had only about two words and Seth Rogen was about five sentences.
This movie is 100% five root beer mugs.
The Madagascar 2 trailer's "wiggling bottoms" has the boys rolling. After wiping the tears from their eyes one of them said, "We wanna see that one!!!" Which was a much better response than the one I got from the Marley and Me teaser.
If you've seen Kung Fu Panda, enter your thoughts on our message board
Jack Black Headlines Kung Fu Panda - Opening Today
by Kevin Crossman
On track for a $40-50 million weekend, Jack Black headlines the new animated film Kung Fu Panda. As with School of Rock and Nacho Libre, Dreamworks is hoping the "cute and cuddly" Jack will be hit at the box office.
The film costars the voices of a number of actors with Frat Pack connections:
Seth Rogen
David Cross (Curious George, Arrested Development, Run Ronnie Run)
Dustin Hoffman (Meet the Fockers, The Holiday)
Jackie Chan (Shanghai Noon, Around the World in 80 Days)
Lucy Liu (Shanghai Noon, Charlie's Angels)
Angelina Jolie (Mr. and Mrs. Smith)
News Team, Assemble! Paul Rudd is in!
by Kevin Crossman
Well, looks like someone tapped Paul Rudd on the shoulder to ask him what he thought of an Anchorman sequel and it sounds like he's up for the job!
According to IESB, Rudd said:
"I think that it would be awesome, I would be in there for sure, and I emailed Adam McKay afterwards, I think he was serious, I don’t think there’s a script or anything like that, I don’t know if there’s been any ideas, and it was so fun to do and I saw him recently and we were just talking about what a blast that was, so hopefully.
IESB: That film was kind of ground zero for what is going on now with of a lot of Judd, the freedom to make the kind of films he’s making, and for a lot of you guys, it just kind of exposed you to a wider audience so now you can kind of mix and match and do these kind of all star comedy ensembles.
"Yeah, it was really the most incredible thing to be a part of that, and it changed my life for sure, these last few years all these movies I’ve worked on have stemmed from that really, that crew, and also they’ve been a lot of fun, I’ve never worked, since “Anchorman”, it seems like on working with Judd, there’s a way of making them that’s different than anything I’d ever worked on up to that point, and creatively it’s fulfilling in ways that other things aren’t, and I’m just blown away by how funny all those guys are, to sit and listen to McKay and Will Ferrell talk is so intimidating because it’s so crazy and funny and smart."
Thoughts on Anchorman 2
by Rick Duran, Senior Editor
We asked Rick to put the rumors of an Anchorman sequel into context, with Steve Carell's positive comments about the project and the past perception that the slowdown in recent projects featuring multiple Fratters was primarily due to financial rather than creative reasons (meaning: it's a lot more expensive to get Ben, Owen, and Vince for your movie than it was in 2003 when 'Starsky & Hutch' was filmed.) - Kevin Crossman
The good thing about Steve is, before Get Smart opens anyway, his quote never grew too high. He's probably still in that $5-7 million range. And Will has taken a paycut before for Blades and Stranger to make the bigger cast possible.
These two team players will probably take big cuts for Anchorman 2, though they'll both probably have profit-participant percentages once the film breaks even. I know that was part of what made Ben Stiller's megabudget Used Guys with Jim Carrey remotely possible prior to it's last minute demise.
The Will/Steve combo is possible, just like we have Stiller/Black this summer in Tropic Thunder (I think Jack also quotes below $10m.) Those are financially possible. It's a matter of getting the monster paycheck combos of Will, Ben, Vince, and Owen. Those are the ones that are toughest to arrange (though I'm betting Vince and Owen are on the verge of returning).
I think the model to watch out for is the upcoming Judd Apatow movie with Seth Rogen and Adam Sandler. It's rare for studios to co-finance a comedy. Usually they only partner up on action films, or one studio agrees to market overseas. But this time, Sony and Universal are splitting the cost of a seemingly minimal budget (i.e. they're essentially splitting Sandler's pay). If the Vince/Owen movie happens, rather than give the guys big percentages of the grossing, we'll probably see two studios co-finance the film and give the guys what they ask.
New Stills from The Promotion
by Kevin Crossman
Cinematical has additional stills from the John C. Reilly/Seann William Scott laugher that is opening this weekend in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The film also starts Jenna Fischer and Fred Armisen, and it's a flick we'd love to see (if we lived in the right metro markets).
Great Odin's Raven! Steve Carell "Absolutely" On Board for Anchorman 2!
by Kevin Crossman
Interviewed by MTV, Steve Carell confirmed he'd be up for a return to Brick Tamland in a sequel to Anchorman: The Ron Burgundy Story.
“Oh, absolutely,” Carell said to MTV News, as talk of an “Anchorman” sequel continues to build momentum. “Yeah, in a second.”
“I’ve heard some inklings as to what Adam McKay has in mind for a sequel, and it’s really funny. But I couldn’t say anything more than that.”
“Everybody’s a friend. That is one of the most fun things I ever did. I laughed until I cried, every day on that movie.”
This is, needless to say, incredible news! Because at the end of the day, it would be cool to see Ron Burgundy again. But what wouldn't be cool is Ron Burgundy next to Champ Kind (David Koechner) and a couple of news team members played by, say, Danny McBride and Rob Corddry (not that we don't love McBride and Corddry, you know).
In fact, if we didn't hear Steve Carell say it we might not believe it. Thankfully, you can hear for yourself! Let's go to the videotape embedded web video.
Thanks to Rick Duran for additional reporting on this breaking story.
Seth Rogen's The Green Hornet is Greenlit
by Kevin Crossman
Entertainment Weekly is reporting that Sony is moving ahead with superhero flick The Green Hornet, starring and written by Seth Rogen. A director has not been named but Rogen is writing the script with Evan Goldberg (Superbad). The movie is scheduled for a June 25, 2010 release.
Rogen will play Britt Reid, a playboy who inherits his father's crusading newspaper and spends his nights fighting crime with his sidekick, Kato.
Madagascar 2 One-Sheet
by Kevin Crossman
You like to move it, move it... Here's the poster for Ben Stiller's blockbuster animated sequel...
Helms Trades Days at The Office for Night at the Museum
by Rick Duran
The Office's Ed Helms is the latest familiar face to sign for 2009's Night at the Museum 2: Escape From the Smithsonian. According to Variety, Helms will play a co-worker of Ben Stiller's character. Production recently wrapped in Washington D.C. and will move to Vancouver this month.
Helms shot a cameo in the first Museum film playing a news reporter, but can only be seen on the deleted scenes available on the 2-Disc edition. We assume his role in the sequel is a completely different character.
In addition to playing Andy Bernard on The Office, Frat Pack might recognize Helms from small cameos in Evan Almighty, Walk Hard and Semi-Pro, in addition to his long stint on The Daily Show. Ed Helms is the latest new face joining Museum 2, in addition to the previously revealed Amy Adams, Hank Azaria and Jonah Hill. Director Shawn Levy has confirmed that all cast members from the first film will be returning including Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan, Robin Williams and Ricky Gervais. We haven't seen any confirmations if Paul Rudd will also be reprising his role from the original, though we can confirm the return of Dexter the Monkey.
Night at the Museum 2: Escape from the Smithsonian is targeting a May 22nd, 2009 release date.
Semi-Pro and Wild West Comedy Show Tuesday
by Kevin Crossman
It's not often we get more than one anticipated DVD release on the same day in Fratland, though this week's releases come to the anticipated list from different directions any way you slice it.
Semi-Pro was a heavily hyped Will Ferrell sports-comedy and was hoped that the R rated would herald a return to the kind of human that made Frank the Tank or Chazz Reingold comedic quote machines. Unfortunately, the film underperformed and grossed a disappointing $32 million domestically. While not a bad film, it certainly isn't in the Ferrell pantheon. That said, this is the kind of film that Frat Pack fans will often run out to catch up on and perhaps savor while viewing at home.
Semi-Pro comes in a single-disc edition, as well as a two-disc unrated version with additional extras.
Vince Vaughn's Wild West Comedy Show: 30 Days and 30 Nights - Hollywood to the Heartland is the longest Frat Pack title ever, but is also one of the funniest. The film follows Vince Vaughn, four unknown standup comedians, and a host of special guests like Jon Favreau, Justin Long, and Peter Billingsley on a road-trip comedy tour. There's lots of hilarious material here, both on stage and off. There's also heartfelt emotion as well, though we don't get a lot of insight to the nominal star of the production, Vince Vaughn.
The film had a limited release in February and even underperformed low expectations. So it sort of comes to DVD in it's single-disc format with a bit of a chip on it's shoulder. But, this is a gem that every Vince Vaughn fan will love forever.
As a reminder, we are able to offer five DVDs of Will Ferrell's basketball comedy Semi-Pro and five copies of Vince Vaughn's Wild West Comedy Show! All you have to do is send email and we'll randomly draw from all the entires. One DVD per person and you must be a United States resident.
CinemaNow Debuts Frat Pack Collection
by Kevin Crossman
Our friends at CinemaNow have put together a special collection of movies on their web-based on-demand movie service. Ever have the burning need to watch Made and The Royal Tenenbaums at a moments notice? Well, CinemaNow is for you!
You can also check out this week's two new releases, Semi-Pro and Wild West Comedy Show.
Spring Breakdown Heading Straight to DVD
by Kevin Crossman
This is a movie we've been waiting for some time now. Spring Breakdown stars Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, and Parker Posey as a trio of mature ladies who go on spring break and have a run-in with the college-aged women who normally inhabit spring break. The movie also features Frat Pack regulars Missi Pyle (Dodgeball), Jane Lynch (Talladega Nights), and Will Arnett (of Will Arnett has seen the Circle fame).
The movie was supposed to be released in spring of 2007 and again this spring before being put on the "TBA" list. There was hope that good box office for Poehler's Baby Mama would ressurect this female-oriented flick, but even after good box office for that film and Sex in the City, Nikki Finke is reporting that the film is coming straight to DVD.
Some days it is a real bummer running this site.
MTV Movie Awards Coverage
by Kevin Crossman
Gotta say, this was one of the best MTV Movie Awards shows in years. Lots of funny stuff, especially if your comedic tastes run beyond Fratville and into the SNL pack of Adam Sandler, Mike Myers, and great cameos from Dana Carvey and Rob Schneider. You can view some of the individual clips below, or you can watch the entire show on-demand.
Ben Stiller and Tom Cruise Backstage
Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr. Present Best Movie
to Transformers (yeah, we know Superbad fans... we know)
At least Ben looked appropriately displeased when announcing the award
Check out the marks on Jack's neck. Funny stuff.
Watch the clip
Rainn Wilson's Furry Bear with Megan Fox
Watch the clip
The full version of the "MTV Viral Video" with
Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr.
Jonah Hill and Seth Rogen Express Outrage at
Losing Best Comedic Performance to Johnny Depp
Watch the clip
Tom Cruise presents the Generation Award to Adam Sandler
(Cruise's speech and Sandler's acceptance song were funny)
Dwayne Johnson, Steve Carell, and Anne Hathaway
react to a fan's "That's What She Said"
Steve's comedic bit was talking too close the mic and Johnson correcting him
(this is a pet peeve of mine, too... so kudos for handling this sensitive topic!)
Watch the Clip
Rainn Wilson stikes a pose
(Rainn did a funny bit about the length of acceptance speeches)
Watch the clip
Get Smart's Anne Hathaway Poses with Jonah Hill
Jon Favreau and Robert Downey Jr. Win the
Best Summer Movie So Far for Iron Man
Watch the clip
Seth Rogen and James Franco smoke "fake weed"
Watch the clip
Danny McBride and Will Ferrell presented Best Fight
(and tried to fight iliteracy)
Watch the clip
Ellen Page tries to kiss Juno costar Jason Bateman after he
expressed
faux-disappointment with her win for Best Female Performance
Watch the clip
Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black Get Close
Frat Pack Wins at Guys Choice Awards
by Kevin Crossman
Well, they had the awards last night even though the awards ceremony won't be broadcast until June 22 on Spike TV. But, maybe knowing these results will get you interested in watching the Second Annual Guys Choice Awards.
Jack Black a Daddy Again
by Kevin Crossman
Word has leaked that Jack Black and wife Tanya have another son: Jack. Yep... named after his daddy (well, technically it is daddy's middle name since our favorite rocking Fratter is actually named Thomas Jack Black, but you know...)
Parody Video from MTV Movie Awards
by Kevin Crossman
Looks like this is a teaser version of the parody video produced for Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr. for the MTV Movie Awards, airing tonight. Funny stuff!
Screencap of the Year
Apatow Drops Details of Third Directing Effort
by Kevin Crossman
As you may recall, we learned a few months ago that Judd Apatow's directorial follow-up to Knocked Up would star Seth Rogen, Adam Sandler, and Leslie Mann. But at the time there wasn't a title or even any plot details. Well, now we know a little more.
According to Ain't It Cool News, they are reporting that the film centers on some stand-up comedians, though as with Apatow's previous work there is a degree of drama in the movie as well. They quote from MTV News (though I don't see the quote in their referenced interview with Adam Sandler).
"It's a comedy, but it has more drama in it. A hilarious drama is what I'm going for," Apatow said. "Every movie, I'm trying to find a way to go deeper, to tell stories about subjects that are important and make them less and less broad while making them equally as funny. [This film is] another step in that progression.
More Cities for Foot Fist Way
by Rick Duran
The movie's limited release is expanding a little more next week.
June 6, 2008:
Danny McBride to Star in New Movie from Pineapple Express Director
by Rick Duran
If the stars align, 2008 could be the Summer of Danny McBride. That is unless Tropic Thunder and Pineapple Express bomb like McBride's last three movies (Hot Rod, The Heartbreak Kid, and Drillbit Taylor). On the eve of McBride's much-buzzed about indie The Foot Fist Way opens in New York and L.A. this weekend, Variety reports on a new starring role for McBride.
Universal Pictures has set David Gordon Green to direct Your Highness, a comedy that will star Danny McBride. McBride, who wrote the script with Ben Best, will play an arrogant, lazy prince who must complete a quest to save his father's kingdom. Best wrote The Foot Fist Way with McBride and Jody Hill; he also co-stars in the film.
Green is on our radar, as he directed McBride in this August's Seth Rogen action comedy Pineapple Express and McBride is currently filming Land of the Lost with Will Ferrell.
In related news, be on the lookout for new online ads featuring McBride's Frat Pack co-stars Ferrell, Rogen and Ben Stiller raving about The Foot Fist Way (which our own editor Jenny Spaulding recently reviewed right here on The Frat Pack Tribute.) The L.A. Times recently name-dropped The Frat Pack in an article about McBride's sudden surge in Hollywood's comedy clique ('Is Danny McBride the next comedy superstar?')
Zack and Miri Make a Porno Teaser!
by Kevin Crossman
Speaking of Seth Rogen... here's the first teaser from Kevin Smith's October release, Zack and Miri Make a Porno. This teaser features Rogen alongside costar Elizabeth Banks. Check it out! (NSFW, obviously...)
Marley and Me Release Date Moved to December 19
by Kevin Crossman
Thanks to Anthony Jones for this tip that Marley and Me's release date has been moved back a few days to December 19. The Owen Wilson / Jennifer Aniston film had previously been scheduled for a Christmas Day release.
I view this change as a show of strength for the film, in that it moves the big Christmas box office dates to a second week and doesn't rely on a big box office weekend to boost its first week. For point of comparison, Aniston's Christmas Day 2005 release Rumor Has It was received to middling reviews and was kind of considered a flop - but still made over $40 million domestically (far more than Owen Wilson's Drillbit Taylor and Will Ferrell's Semi-Pro, remember). So, Christmas is a really good time to open a movie.
The Foot Fist Way Mini Review
by Jenny Spaulding
I saw an advanced screening of this last night. Can't say I was super excited about it and mainly checked it out because it was free. But I have to admit, it's pretty funny and entertaining. I wasn't crazy about Danny McBride in The Hearbreak Kid. Well, to be fair, I wasn't crazy about the movie either, but McBride's smug, self-important schtick didn't fit in that film, but serves him well in The Foot Fist Way.
McBride plays Fred, a Tae Kwon Do instructor, who takes martial arts and himself, very seriously. His self deluded outlook is extremely funny to watch. In some ways the movie feels like a Christopher Guest mockumentary because Fred plays it so straight it can be incredibly awkward. He mentors his students -- ranging from children to senior citizens -- with great bravado and pearls of wisdom. The film itself is segmented by the basic tenets of Tae Kwon Do: courtesy, integrity, self-control, perseverance, and indomitable spirit. Humorously, the exact opposite of which is often being depicted on screen.
Fred has a hot, yet trashy looking peroxide blonde wife who had one of my favorite lines (paraphrased): "Something happened. I got drunk, Myrtle Beach drunk." Her infidelity propels much of the story and road trip to meet Fred's hero, Chuck "The Truck" Wallace, a second-rate martial arts movie star.
This is pretty low budget, basic film, but it has a charm that won me over and definitely had me rooting for the underdog. It's a very limited release, but I expect it'll turn up on cable or DVD soon. It's definitely worth checking out. It has a surprisingly high Rotten Tomatoes rating. Currently the one negative review isn't all that negative!
Shawn Levy Promises a Bigger and Better Night at the Museum 2
by Amy Gilbert
About.com has an interview with director Shawn Levy and he dishes on his high-profile sequel currently filming.
“I’ve got to tell you, the script is better, the cast is bigger, the action’s bigger, so we’re feeling pretty good. I’m here telling you, I don’t think anyone’s going to be disappointed.”
“Everybody…literally everybody is back. And we got Amy Adams playing Amelia Earhart. We got a number of other really cool pieces of casting, so it’s all good. They’re all back. Rexy is back. Dexter’s back, plus a lot more creatures."
“We start by going to the Smithsonian, which is the biggest museum in the world. And it involves like aircrafts and various historical figures. It has 18 museums and I’ll just say that in this movie, they leave the museum. So it’s not just inside; they bust out into the world.”
Step Brothers Red Band Trailer Kills
by Kevin Crossman
Big props to the cool folks over at /Film for scoring the red band trailer to Step Brothers. Now, we were not kind to Will Ferrell's spring release Semi-Pro that was also R-rated. That film didn't use its profanity as effectively as in past Ferrell flicks ("Ma! The Meatloaf" anyone?). But we're starting to get a good feeling about Step Brothers which is kind of running under the radar for a July 26 release this summer.
The best thing about this trailer is that it gives a bit more screentime for the parents of the characters played by Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly. Mary Steenburgen played Will's stepmother in Elf and Richard Jenkins is familar to Frat Pack fans from his role in Ben Stiller's 1998 film, Flirting with Disaster. In fact, it's quite funny to see Steenburgen drop an F-Bomb!
In other Step Brothers news, the official website has been updated with an animated version of the one-sheet poster that is very funny at least judging by the reaction at my local cineplex. Be sure to refresh the page to see several hilarious vignettes.
Ben Stiller and Jack Black to Create Short Films for MTV Movie Awards
by Kevin Crossman
You should be familiar with past MTV Movie Awards work by these two guys. Who can forget Ben and Vince Vaughn's hilarious pitch for a fourth Lord of the Rings movie, or Jack and Will Ferrell's Panic Room parody?
Now, Stiller and Black will be joined by their Tropic Thunder costar Robert Downey, Jr. to create original short films for the awards show, airing June 1st.
Stiller hired Mike Bender to write the piece and it will be directed by Forgetting Sarah Marshall helmer (and former Red Hour Films employee) Nick Stoller. The film is a "very funny tribute to viral films," said Robin Reinhardt-Locke, senior vp studio relations and celebrity talent at MTV. The video also will air at MTV.com and other sites after its on-air premiere.
New Tropic Thunder Photos
by Kevin Crossman
Rick Duran uncovered these beauties over the weekend (thank you Dreamworks!). Here's the best of the bunch, featuring Ben "Two Tickets to the Gunshow" Stiller.
More Tropic Thunder Photos on our Preview Page
Slow News Weekend But Stay Tuned for Free DVD Contest
by Kevin Crossman
We're taking a break from website updates this weekend. If you're looking for the latest news, check out our Message Boards.
So have fun this holiday weekend and remember to come back about a week from now for a special contest that includes DVD giveaways featuring a couple of upcoming releases from Frat Pack stars.
Ben Stiller and Will Ferrell Tapped for Presenters at MTV Movie Awards
by Kevin Crossman
This isn't big news but is welcome nonetheless. Mike Myers is hosting the MTV Movie Awards on June 1st, but our Frat Pack pals Ben and Will have been announced as presenters. Superbad led all films with five nominations.
Jack Black, Steve Carell, Robert Downey Jr., and Seth Rogen were previously announced as presenters.
Lost Scene from Talladega Nights
by Kevin Crossman
Remember that cool shot of Ricky Bobby on stage from the Talladega Nights trailer? Remember how disappointed we were when it never showed up on DVD?
Thanks to FunnyorDie now you can see the scene featuring Chris Issak.
Owen Wilson Gets Married... to Jennifer Aniston?
by Kevin Crossman
Yes, this is just more tabloid fodder for those who haven't been paying attention to the seemingly everlasting Marley and Me shoot. Obviously, this is just part of the storyline where Owen and Jen's characters start their married life together. Still, it's a great look for both of them. More photos are available.
Ben Stiller Sequel News
by Kevin Crossman
Looks like Night at the Museum 2: Escape from the Smithsonian is starting to film. Check out Ben Stiller as Larry Daley in Washington DC (home of the Smithsonian, remember?). All our favorites from the first film are back, including Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan, and Robin Williams. Joining the cast this time are Frat Pack Friends Hank Azaria (Dodgeball) and Amy Adams (Talladega Nights). More photos are available.
Additional Links:
Meanwhile we have a quote from Fockers director Jay Roach. The third film will reportedly focus on parenthood and be called Little Fockers Roach said:
"The way we go after these is when we have a story that can make it earn itself back," he explained. "Sequels shouldn't always be automatic; there's a certain amount of pressure if something works, to have it work twice. But that doesn't always mean it will work three times. We're just trying to find the right story that makes it worth doing again. We always talk about ideas for it, and it would be a great group of people to get back together, for sure."
Tropic Thunder isn't a sequel, of course. But if we're talking about Ben Stiller this seems like an appropriate place to reference the performance on American Idol tonight. Ben, Jack, and Robert performed as The Pips, singing with Gladys Knight as she performed her classic hit, "Midnight Train to Georgia."
Purchase the Video from iTunes - Proceeds to Charity
Thanks to Jon and Bonnie for contributing to this story
Drillbit Taylor DVD Specs
by Kevin Crossman
Thanks to DVDActive, we have the specs and street date for Owen Wilson's underrated comedy, Drillbit Taylor. While this won't go down as a classic of "Owen-ness" I liked this movie and it deserves more attention when it arrives on DVD on July 1st.
As expected, there is a standard and extended ("unrated") edition with additional footage (and, likely, profanity).
Standard Edition
Extended Survival Edition
Jack Black Talking School of Rock 2?
by Kevin Crossman
Yes, you heard that right. According to film-industry.biz, Jack is considering a sequel to his 2003 commercial breakthrough.
“I’d really like to do it, the last one was great,” Jack Black said at Cannes. “We are seriously thinking about it, there’s already a script. In a few weeks we have to decide if we go through with the project or not.“
Black made no comments on the return of director Richard Linklater or writer and frequent collaborator Mike White.
Forgetting South Park Marshall
by Rick Duran
Had been meaning to do this one for a while...
(I love how Rick used the "red band" logo over "Peter" - Kevin Crossman)
New Tropic Thunder One-Sheet
by Kevin Crossman
Thanks to Mike Markus for sending us this revised new poster for Tropic Thunder. Get some!
Jonah Hill on his Unexpected High-Profile Projects
by Rick Duran
The blogs have been buzzing about Jonah Hill these past two weeks. First came the story about Hill being offered a sidekick role in Transformers 2, which fell through days after the story broke. Then came word that Hill was writing, producing, and possibly starring in the film adaptation of 21 Jump Street. He recently had a candid talk with MTV about these two surprising offers, including confirmation that Sony wants a "comedic" 21 Jump Street.
Jonah Hill is currently filming a supporting role in This Side of the Truth opposite Ricky Gervais, Tina Fey and Jason Bateman, and will have a cameo in next summer's Night at the Museum 2. Hill's next lead role will be in Universal's Get Him to the Greek, reteaming with the Forgetting Sarah Marshall team of co-star Russell Brand, director Nick Stoller and producer extraordinaire Judd Apatow.
Tropic Thunder Red-Band Trailer
by Kevin Crossman
Thanks to numerous folks for tipping us to the incredible red-band trailer for Tropic Thunder. It's available from the official website and via iTunes in several formats.
In addition to showing even more hilarious footage from the movie, there are some interesting tidbits:
Stiller to produce starring vehicle for Rob Corddry
by Rick Duran
Daily Show alum Rob Corddry, who had a silent role in Old School, has been building his Frat Pack resume with small roles in Blades of Glory, The Heartbreak Kid and Semi-Pro. Now Corddry's attached to headline New Line's Project A for producer Ben Stiller and Stuart Cornfeld's Red Hour Films, from a screenplay written by Etan Cohen (Tropic Thunder, Idiocracy).
Corddry will star as the "A" in the venture, playing a man trained by the U.S. government as a Cold War experiment to become the world's biggest jerk.
The project has been in development for several years, and Corddry has long wanted in on it. Ben and Stuart gave it to me to read years ago, and it's always been the first thing I ask my agents and managers about," Corddry told The Hollywood Reporter. "They've always said, 'Go open a movie first!' " [Hollywood Reporter]
Steve Carell Hosting SNL on Saturday
by Kevin Crossman
Y'all remember the last time Steve hosted SNL, don't you? Steve sang a little song about a group of comedians you might be familiar with...
"See, I'm in the big leagues now. I'm in a category with the Vince Vaughns, the Owen Wilsons, and the Ben Stillers. I'm one of those guys now, raking the box office numbers. I'm not bragging, but it's not bad to brag, when you're just like Jack Black but better. Hey, move over, Will Ferrell, Vince Vaughn, out of my way. I hear Stiller's a big kiss-ass, and Owen Wilson is gay!"
McKay Keeps the Drumbeat Going for Anchorman 2
by Rick Duran
Some very interesting stuff from Anchorman writer/director Adam McKay over at the FunnyorDie Blog:
Tom Brokaw was kind enough to be interviewed by Ron Burgundy at Radio City Music Hall on the FOD tour . And it was one of the greatest things I have seen. The most respected and real anchorman being interviewed by the least respected and fake anchorman. I thought the stage might explode.
In fact, it was Ferrell doing Burgundy on the tour that reminded us how enjoyable the character is and got us talking about doing a sequel. The conversation quickly went from why not to let's definitely do it. You only live once. Plus we know as well as anyone how sequels are usually tired and lame so we vowed not to let it be tired and lame. The trickiest thing will be reassembling that cast. Carrell is now a big star as is Vince and Rudd... Koechner is quite busy and just starred in the first Gary Sanchez Prod movie "The Goods" with Jeremy Piven and James Brolin. We also must have Seth Rogen return as the camera man again. So that's the toughest part...In the mean time enjoy Burgundy interviewing Tom Brokaw. Coming this week. It's like seeing a Sasquatch pop out of the woods: frightening, beautiful, and rare.
That's all from me. We're finishing up Step Brothers and getting ready for the release of Foot Fist Way on May 30th. Check out both trailers as well as Judd's Pineapple Express trailer here on FOD.
McKay name-dropping Vince and Seth, in addition to the core cast, makes me think they've already had "discussions." This is a great sign. If it doesn't happen, I will smash my computer in anger.
Jack Black Outs Angelina's Twins
by Kevin Crossman
I guess Jack Black and Angelina Jolie know how to get press for a film. The two were in Cannes doing press for Kung Fu Panda, and during an interview Jack "let slip" that Jolie was pregnant with twins as rumored. Here's the transcript from Access Hollywood.
JACK BLACK:
You're gonna have as many as Brady Bunch when you have these.
NATALIE MORALES:
So is that confirmed? Is it two?
ANGELINA JOLIE:
Yeah, yeah.
NATALIE MORALES:
So you're having twins?
JACK BLACK:
I'm all-- I'm glad I didn't blow it!
ANGELINA JOLIE:
Well Jack's just confirmed it actually.
JACK BLACK:
Is that true?
ANGELINA JOLIE:
Yeah, you did.
JACK BLACK:
I can't confirm or deny.
ANGELINA JOLIE:
No, no, no. We're out. We're fine.
Jack Black "Can" Do Cannes
by Amy Gilbert
Jack has discovered the perfect accessory to make anyone look slim: 50 dancing Pandas! Check the video of the event from OMG!
Cinematical has additional photos from Cannes and they are pretty awesome, so check it out. Kung Fu Panda opens on June 6, starring Jack Black as the title character and also featuring the voices of Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan, Dustin Hoffman, Michael Clarke Duncan, David Cross, Lucy Lui, and Angelina Jolie.
In the least-surprising news of the week, we now have an audio clip of Cee-Lo Green and Jack Black's cover of "Kung Fu Fighting" from the Kung Fu Panda soundtrack (on sale May 27th as a single and June 3rd for the soundtrack).The Foot Fist Way Premiere
by Rick Duran
Danny McBride has carved himself a rather large piece of slice of the Frat Pack Friend pie lately, thanks to roles in The Heartbreak Kid, Drillbit Taylor, Tropic Thunder, Pineapple Express, and Land of the Lost. McBride's seminal movie is The Foot Fist Way, an independent production that's gotten a ton of "insider" buzz and now scheduled for limited release on May 30th. Here are some shots from the premiere in Hollywood.
Star Danny McBride and director Jody Hill
(currently directing Seth Rogen's Observe and Report)
This drink may have been poured from Jonah Hill's Superbad detergent bottle
Will Ferrell and Jonah Hill continuing to brag about seeing Foot Fist Way years before you did
Foot Fist Way co-star Ben Best ("Is that blood?" guy from Superbad) and Will Ferrell
Jody Hill, Danny McBride, Will Ferrell, and Adam Corolla
Summer Movie Poll Update
by Rick Duran
As of this morning, here are the results in our Most Anticipated Summer Movie Poll:
Does our poll spell trouble for Get Smart? A franchise tentpole like that shouldn't be polling 4th place, especially with TV ads already airing. Flipside of those results: Surprising amount of support for Pineapple Express.
New Talladega Nights DVD Edition Coming in July
by Kevin Crossman
With Will and John reuniting for Step Brothers in late July, I guess we should have seen this one coming. There's a new Talladega Nights DVD coming to stores on July 15.
The new 2-disc Revved Up Edition of Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby is unrated and features an all-new added value disc!
Hilarious never-before-seen special features including 10 additional deleted scenes, interviews with Ricky and Jean, raw takes, Writer/Director Adam McKay’s Video Diaries, cast auditions and more!
Thanks to Greg Mariotti for the tip.
Seth Rogen News
by Kevin Crossman
There are several Seth Rogen news items this week:
Kevin Smith updated his blog with a new image Zack and Miri Make a Porno and said that the first test screening will be held this coming Tuesday. An Internet-only trailer is expected soon. Smith confirms he will be at the San Diego Comic Con on the 25th in the "big room," which is likely a panel discussion. Expectations are that Elizabeth Banks and Seth Rogen will most likely be in attendance. Empire has further script details:
Tropic Thunder and Step Brothers Take Golden Trailer Awards
by Kevin Crossman
Ben Stiller's all-star summer comedy Tropic Thunder won the award for Best Comedy Trailer at the 9th Annual Golden Trailer Awards. The picture was nominated against Forgetting Sarah Marshall,
Juno,
Meet Bill, and Pineapple Express.
The Will Ferrell comedy Step Brothers won the award for Best Comedy Poster, against nominees Evan Almighty, In Bruges, and Semi-Pro.
Speed Racer Does Not Star Jack Black
by Kevin Crossman
Just a reminder. Besides the fact that Speed Racer is an awful movie, Frat Pack fans are under no obligation to see this movie.
That's Emile Hirsch (Into the Wild) playing the title character. It's not Jack Black like you might have thought. Thought I should let y'all know, just in case.
I guess Vince Vaughn was smart to drop out of the project (he had been long associated and tapped to play Racer X). The movie is the first bomb of the summer.
Take our Summer Movie Poll
by Rick Duran
The Frat Pack and their expanding clique have some huge releases scheduled for Summer 2008. Which are you most excited about?
Steve Carell Interviewed in Playboy
by Kevin Crossman
Our friends at Playboy gave us the heads-up that this coming, and then let us know that their interview with Steve Carell is now available on newstands everywhere (well, not every-where, but you know...).
The June 2008 issue features a great interview with Steve, including this excerpt.
What's at the core of Michael [Scott]'s behavior? Does he crave the spotlight?
Well, sure, but everyone wants a moment to shine. It's a very human quality. Even the most reserved and shy people love the spotlight every once in a while. You know what I liken it to? On the game show Deal or No Deal, when the contestants are given the choice of walking home with $300,000 or possibly getting $375,000, I believe part of the reason they stay is that they're the star. It's not about the money at that point. I was watching an episode a few weeks ago, and one contestant said something I thought was very telling. She was offered a pretty good deal, and she said, "I don't want to leave." She was the center of attention. It's the same for Michael. He is the focus of this documentary. Camera crews follow him around all day. He embraces it, and it gives him a sense of importance he would not otherwise have. It's kind of the best and worst thing that's ever happened to him.
Lastly, because this is Playboy and all, I am legally required to make fun of the sexual pantomime in the photo of Steve.
Jonah Hill Appearing in Night at the Museum 2?
by Adam Stevenson
The possible role for Jonah Hill in Transformers 2 as Shia LeBeouf's college roommate / sidekick has thankfully fell through, but even better news has arrived in which he may have a cameo in Night at the Museum 2.
If he's going to play a historical figure, I've got some ideas for what his role could be:
The Henry Poole One-Sheet is Here
by Kevin Crossman
Props to our editor Amy Gilbert for finding this one. It's the incredible poster for Luke Wilson's feel good summer comedy, Henry Poole is Here. The indie flick is scheduled to open on July 25, 2008, the same weekend as Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly's Step Brothers. But you know what? I'm actually looking forward to Henry Poole more than Step Brothers. Okay, as several have pointed out the release date is now August 15th, which means it's now going up against Tropic Thunder. Now, I'm not going to lie and say I'm looking forward to Henry Poole more than Tropic, but I'm still super excited to see the film.
Click on the poster to check the Henry Poole trailer and MySpace site.
McKay Confirms Anchorman 2
by Kevin Crossman
You know, if we posted every time we heard a rumor about a Crashers 2 or Old School Dos we'd never post any real news. A sequel to 2004's Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy is usually mentioned in the same breath, but this time it might be different.
Anchorman writer/director Adam McKay was interviewed over at Collider, and he had this to say about an Anchorman sequel.
Adam McKay: I'm looking to do another movie, I might do this other movie called Channel 3 Billion which is kind of this science fiction/Brazil type comedy. Then after that, Will and I are like let's do Anchorman 2…so you're talking like 2 years maybe we'll do it. But we're going to do it, for sure.
Collider: That's like 100%?
Adam McKay: Yeah, yeah, yeah. We're dying to do it. Unless we can't get the cast together, which is always kind of a tricky thing. But, I think, with that cast we're all friends, so yeah, we want to do it.
This still seems a bit uncertain, and it sounds like a script hasn't even been written yet. Plus, Anchorman kind of tied up the storyline after the events that concluded at the San Diego Zoo, so a sequel kind of seems redundant. But, if the script was great I'm sure all the members of the news team would reassemble including Steve Carell. Let's just hope Owen Wilson is free for a cameo this time.
Buzz Building for Tenure with Wilson, Mol, and Koechner
by Kevin Crossman
Big props to Laura Telles for setting us hip to the Rosemont College Blog. Rosemont is one of the schools where Tenure is filming with Luke Wilson, Gretchen Mol, and David Koechner. Yes, that's Koechner (Anchorman, Semi-Pro) on the left sporting a beard in these photos posted to the blog.
The movie is a romantic comedy set in the world of collegiate academics, where Wilson's character must battle Mol's for tenure at fictional Grey Collge. The movie's director Mike Million sat down with Koechner in this interview seen on YouTube.
I gotta say I think the premise of this movie sounds great, especially considering the talents of the three principals. Mol was superb as a sexy librarian in The Ten, so I think she'll be a great foil for Wilson. And we couldn't be happier to see Koechner latch onto a plum supporting role similar to Rainn Wilson's in My Super-Ex Girlfriend. The movie is scheduled for release in 2009.
Tribute senior editor also wanted to chime in with sentiments we endorse:
I'm getting way too ahead of myself, especially since the movie (considering Luke's track record) could tank, but is it possible that Tenure might wind up being an Frat Pack classic? I was looking at the pics Laura posted and it certainly seems like this is a larger role for Koechner than even Anchorman.
Too soon to tell (and performing worse than Walk Hard or Pick of Destiny won't help its case) but Tenure is definitely on my radar.
Owen and Jen Take in a Ballgame
by Kevin Crossman
That's Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston filming a scene from Marley and Me at the Florida Marlins baseball game last evening.
According to a report on MLB.com, here's how the scene went down:
A backdrop to the Marlins beating the Padres, 6-4, on Friday night was the shooting of a scene for the upcoming movie "Marley & Me," starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson.
Friday was a "Bark at the Park" night for the Marlins, a promotion through which fans can bring their dogs to the stadium. And as it happened, a dog running on the field is part of a scene in the movie, which is set to be released on Christmas Day.
Aniston and Wilson were at the ballpark, filming a few scenes. The first took place in the stands, with a dog racing down the aisles, Wilson and then Aniston in pursuit.
And after Hanley Ramirez of the Marlins was thrown out trying to steal third base, ending the eighth inning, Wilson and Aniston surfaced again, chasing after a dog in left field.
Players were leaving and entering the field but momentarily stopped as the two actors finally grabbed the dog and were whisked away. The segment lasted about a minute and didn't interrupt the game.
Frat Pack and baseball fans may remember that Jennifer Aniston filmed a memorable scene at Wrigley Field for The Break-Up with Vince Vaughn. Thanks to our tipster Justin Roberts for the heads-up on this story.
Jon Favreau Interview
by Kevin Crossman
Here's a great interview with Frat Pack Friend Jon Favreau (Elf, The Break-Up), who's blockbuster action movie Iron Man is now playing in theatres. Check it out and thanks again to our friends at ReelTalk for the link.
The Promotion Poster
by Kevin Crossman
Formerly titled Quebec, The Promotion has been getting great buzz after wild applause at SXSW in March. The comedy starring Seann William Scott and John C. Reilly is scheduled for release on June 6, 2008. Here's the incredible one-sheet for the film.
Iron Man Premiere Photos
by Kevin Crossman
Opening tonight is Jon Favreau's superhero flick Iron Man, starring Robert Downey Jr. (Tropic Thunder). The Hollywood premiere took place last night and here are some photos of the notables.
Jon Favreau (director) and Robert Downey Jr. (star)
Gwyneth Paltrow (star) looking great
Jack Black mugging with wife Tanya
"The Tall Guy from Dogeball" has looked better
Christine Taylor looking healthier with Ben Stiller
Nice photo composition featuring the Tribute's premiere favorite, Mr. Smirk
New Step Brothers Stills
by Kevin Crossman
Direct from the MySpace site. Step Brothers opens on July 25, and is Adam McKay's follow-up to Talladega Nights. Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly play two step brothers in the raunchy R-rated comedy that we're really looking forward to.
Mike Judge's Next Film Stars Jason Bateman
by Adam Stevenson
When people hear that Office Space creator Mike Judge is directing another workplace comedy, a sequel to his cult classic is the first thing that comes to mind. Instead, his next flick, Extract, will be a comedy starring Jason Bateman, about a guy who "explores what it's like to be the boss when everything seems to be shifting around you."
Extract will be written and directed by Judge and under Judge's new team, Ternion Productions, which he formed with writer-producers John Altschuler and Dave Krinsky. (Variety)
Vince Vaughn Visits Owen Wilson in Miami
by Kevin Crossman
We try not to add much fuel to the tabloid fire here on the Tribute (heck, we didn't even promote Ben Stiller dropping Blue Steel over at TMZ.com). But, this story is too good to pass up.
Yes, that's Vince Vaughn spotted over the weekend spending some quality time with Wedding Crashers costar Owen Wilson who is Miami filming Marley and Me with Vaughn's ex, Jennifer Aniston.
It's unclear what Owen and Vince are discussing. Perhaps Owen is trying to play matchmaker. Or, maybe there was some Wedding Crashers 2 talk, thanks to disappointing box office for Fred Claus and Drillbit Taylor. Of course, sometimes a visit it just a visit. At least Vince kept his pants on, unlike Owen's last brofriend visitor, Woody Harrelson.
Amy Peohler and Will Arnett Are Expecting
by Kevin Crossman
I guess we can't avoid the Baby Mama jokes, especially with the film opening strongly at number one this weekend. So, here we go...
Amy Pohler is now a real-life "baby mama," now that her rep Lewis Kay confirmed that she and her husband and fellow Frat Pack Friend Will Arnett are now expecting. Coindicentally, hardcore Frat Pack fans will recall pregnancy was the theme of Arnett's recent underrated comedy The Brothers Solomon ("Let's make a baby for Dad!").
The child is expected in the late Fall, putting into question Peohler's SNL schedule for the fall. The couple have been married since 2003, and last year costarred as brother and sister in the Frat Pack comedy Blades of Glory.
The Frat Pack Tribute is sending our best wishes to Will and Amy for an healthy and happy pregnancy.
Steve Carell On the Cover of Wired
by Kevin Crossman
Looks like Steve is starting to get the promo push out for Get Smart, coming to theatres on June 20th. He's now the coverboy for a brain-oriented series of articles in Wired (brain... Get Smart... get it?).
Steve's article is "Steve Carell on How to Act Brilliant" and includes some advice from the man.
Wes Anderson Takes Darjeeling Limited to the Bank
by Mario Bernengo
The Darjeeling Limited is now officially Wes Anderson's most successful at the box office film to date - overseas, that is. As Wes moves further into Woody Allen box office territory, he proves that Europe loves America's auteurs as much as Americans seem indifferent to them.
The director's latest feature, the all-but-ignored The Darjeeling Limited, possibly his best film thus far, underperformed to the tune of $11,897,548 in its limited stateside release, putting off moviegoers who were often forced to drive to the next town to catch the India-set comedic drama starring Frat Packer Owen Wilson, whose "incident" last year coincided with the film's September 2007 world premiere at Venice - where it won The Lion Cub - and excluded him from the promotion of the film, immediately stirring a debate among insiders over whether the Owen-heavy headlines would "help" or "hurt" the film's financial success. In the end, the entirely inappropriate discussion was probably a zero sum game - the problem was a release that merely - and very briefly - reached 698 theaters.
In the rest of the world, however, Darjeeling recently surpassed The Royal Tenenbaums as Wes Anderson's most successful film ever overseas, earning $19,400,682 compared to Tenenbaums' $19,077,240. The public's enthusiastic response has been accompanied by rave reviews and even a couple of awards for the director. Besides winning Venice's Lion Cub - chosen among Italy's school children - this genuinely American yet europhile storyteller scored once again at Stockholm later in the year, winning The Visionary Award (and baffled the audience by holding his acceptance speech entirely in Swedish).
The trend is clear, especially if you take into account that the director's domestic and foreign gross percentages have been inverted since the release of The Royal Tenenbaums. While the foreign 19 mil of that film made up just 26.7 % of the total earnings, the same sum for The Darjeeling Limited constitutes a whopping 62% of its total.
So, will Wes follow Woody - with whom he curiously shares the initials WA - over the pond? It's a shame that such original filmmakers find it so hard to reach the audience they deserve at home, but it seems that Europeans, Australians and South Americans will make sure they get to keep making movies.
Old School recut as: The Harrison College Kidnappings
by Kevin Crossman
Kind of a slow news week in Fratville. Here are a couple tidbits:
So, our feature today is an incredible mashup of Old School that we stumbled across on YouTube. "There's a kidnapper/killer on the loose at Harrison College...and time is running out." Great stuff, says we!
Semi-Pro Bear Kills Trainer
by Kevin Crossman
Sad news today. Rocky the Bear who appeared in Semi-Pro with Will Ferrell attacked and killed a trainer. Three experienced handlers were working with the grizzly Tuesday at the Predators in Action wild animal training center when the bear attacked Stephan Miller, 39, said San Bernardino County sheriff's spokeswoman Cindy Beavers.
The bear scene was a highlight of an otherwise mediocre Ferrell sports vehicle. There is more information about the story, as well as a YouTube video of the scene available at The Huffington Post.
Hill/Brand in Get Him to the Greek for Stoller/Apatow
by Rick Duran
Russell Brand hinted at this project in our interview with him, and now Variety has details a new Apatow production with two of the stars of Forgetting Sarah Marshall.
"Forgetting Sarah Marshall" helmer Nick Stoller is reteaming with Judd Apatow and Universal Pictures for the comedy "Get Him to the Greek," with Jonah Hill and Russell Brand attached to star.
Stoller has been tapped to write and direct the laffer, which centers on a fresh-out-of-college insurance adjuster (Hill) who is hired to accompany an out-of-control rock star (Brand) from London to a gig at L.A.'s Greek Theater.
Hill and Brand played supporting roles in U's "Sarah Marshall"; Stoller made his feature directing debut on the pic. "During the table read on 'Sarah Marshall,' Jonah and Russell had such a great chemistry," said Stoller, who described "Greek" as a very dirty take on "Almost Famous." "Even though they are such different actors with different styles, I thought there could be a great buddy comedy there."
Stoller is co-writing and will direct the comedy "Five-Year Engagement" for Universal, with Jason Segal co-writing and attached to star. He and Segal are also collaborating on "The Muppet Movie" for Disney. Stoller's writing credits include the forthcoming Jim Carrey starrer "Yes Man." (Variety)
"A dirty take on Almost Famous" was the selling point for me.
New Tropic Thunder Photos
by Kevin Crossman
More great images from Tropic Thunder were released yesterday.
Jack Black and Jay Baruchel: Enemies of Water Buffalo Everywhere
Group shot featuring Nick Nolte (center)
Robert Downey Jr. and Jack Black
Entertainment Weekly recently predicted Thunder would be the biggest comedy of the summer. Let's hope the R rating doesn't prevent people from checking out the latest true Frat Pack film with two Fratters in starring roles.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall is a Hit
by Kevin Crossman
Looks like Team Apatow is back on track, with Judd Apatow's latest production Forgetting Sarah Marshall opening strongly at number two with an estimated $17.4 million. While this is less the openings from previous Apatow summer comedies The 40-Year-Old Virgin ($21.4M), Knocked Up ($30.7M), and Superbad ($33.1M). However, it was stronger than the debuts of the most recent Apatow productions, Walk Hard ($4.2M) and Drillbit Taylor ($10.3M).
There's no doubt that Forgetting Sarah Marshall is a must-see. You'd do well to see this in the theatre too, as the big screen does justice to the Hawaiian locations. Plus, the big screen does amazing things to the mesmerizing eyes of Mila Kunis (pictured above with Jason Segel). I never really vibed on her on the small screen but on the big screen she's absoutely stunning and moreover brings a powerful portrayal to what could have been a typical role. It's really an Earmuff worthy performance!
Plus, there's a crowd-pleasing end credits sequence featuring a major (and non-Apatow regular) Frat Pack friend that's a hoot. So, go see the thing okay?
If you can't get enough Forgetting Sarah Marshall, check out the coverage over at Manny the MovieGuy who scored a bunch of interviews in Hawaii with the cast and crew.
Luke Wilson's Comeback... a Drama?
by Kevin Crossman
There's finally a trailer for Luke Wilson's next film, Henry Poole is Here. We haven't heard much about the movie aside from some Sundance buzz but a MySpace site/trailer for the film is now available.
Here's the synopsis:
"Luke Wilson (The Royal Tenenbaums, Old School), Academy Award® nominee Adriana Barraza (Babel) and Radha Mitchell (Finding Neverland) star in a modern day fable about the unexpected wonders of the everyday from director Mark Pellington (U2 3D, The Mothman Prophesies). Henry Poole is Here tells the funny, poignant and uplifting story of a disillusioned man who attempts to hide from life in a rundown suburban tract home only to discover he cannot escape the forces of hope."
The film is scheduled for release on July 25, 2008 and we're really excited about this movie. Wilson looks great and it seems that it might have that crowd-pleasing mix of drama and comedy that made hits out of Little Miss Sunshine and Juno.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall Opens Today
by Kevin Crossman
Yeah, I guess we've been pimping this pretty hard ever since we first heard about the movie and then were invited for a set visit last summer. But, the movie is finally hitting theatres here in North America, and it's been getting rave reviews. Our reviewer Rick Duran gave the film 5 beermugs and called it "the funniest film so far this year."
So, be sure to check out Jason Segel, Kristen Bell, and the rest of Team Apatow now in theatres. If you've seen the movie, leave comments on our message board.
) and Movie PreviewPodcast #175: Russell Brand Interview
Russell Brand is a wild, fast-talking comedian from the UK, introducing himself to US audiences in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Brand plays Aldous Snow, a rock singer who has started dating Sarah Marshall, much to the horror of her ex-boyfriend Peter. Brand, a successful stand-up and tabloid sensation in the UK, is a unique sight to behold in person; A daunting mix of tall hair, chains, open shirts and his own self-declared “androgynous sexuality.”
The Frat Pack Tribute participated in a hilarious roundtable interview session with Brand during Los Angeles press day for Forgetting Sarah Marshall. We did not know what to expect from Brand, and the following interview is one of the funniest we’ve been lucky to take part in.
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Christopher Mintz-Plasse Needs Your Help: McLovin' Fund
by Kevin Crossman
We've been giving a lot lately, what with the Night of Too Many Stars benefit earlier this week. But here's a critical need if we've ever seen one. Join Forgetting Sarah Marshall's Kristen Bell in supporting Superbad's Christopher Mintz-Plasse.
Funny or Die Turns One Today
by Kevin Crossman
Congrats to Will Ferrell, Adam McKay, and all the comedians who make Funny or Die one of the success stories of the viral video world. To celebrate, FoD has put out a birthday video featuring Will Ferrell, Ed Helms, Rachael Harris, and others. And, yes, Pearl...
Charity Bids to Meet Owen Wilson or Ben Stiller
by Kevin Crossman
There's news today of two auctions to benefit the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial (online until May 7th) in which celebrities, political figures, designers, and various corporations have generously donated experiences to be auctioned off.
Donations from the CharityBuzz.com Online Auction will help the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial (www.rfkmemorial.org) to continue providing innovative support to courageous human rights defenders around the world. RFK supports their partners with projects combining technology, legal support, advocacy to governmental and international bodies, and media outreach to help overcome human rights abuses in places like New Orleans, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Brazil and Chad among other places.
Farrelly Bros eyeing Danny McBride for new comedy franchise?
by Rick Duran
Variety and The Hollywood Reporter have broke the story that 20th Century Fox pre-emptively bought a script titled "Beaujolais," to be produced by Peter and Bobby Farrelly, possibly as a directing vehicle from them. According to Variety, "Project has been dubbed a redneck action-adventure with a protagonist along the lines of an Austin Powers or Ace Ventura." Hollywood Reporter adds that "the name describes a treasure-hunting character" and that "the studio sees the project as a franchise starter."
Interesting to note that when the article first went online, they mentioned the studio was looking to Danny McBride to star, but have since removed his name. McBride is a rising star on our radar, recently appearing in The Heartbreak Kid and Drillbit Taylor, and will be seen this summer in Tropic Thunder and Pineapple Express, in addition to his indie film The Foot Fist Way; He is currently filming Land of the Lost with Will Ferrell. The Farrelly Brothers, who praised McBride's Foot Fist Way on The Heartbreak Kid DVD commentary, are excited about this new Beaujolais project; "We haven't stepped up and done something like us in a while," Bobby Farrelly said. "Everything sort of aligned for us on this project."
Juno I Love You Baby
by Jenny Spaulding
Ok, so that headline is cheesy, unoriginal, or stolen -- possibly all three. But it's still true. I loved Juno.
Did that love affair begin when I spotted director Jason Reitman's father Ivan, who helmed of one of my all time favorite films (Ghostbusters) and was to be the future producer of Old School, dining out at Universal's City Walk during a family vacation? Or was it when I stumbled across a spunky, young ex-stripper bantering with David Letterman back in March of 2006? It certainly wasn't when I first heard the story pitch for Juno: an unwed teenage girl plans to give her baby to a yuppie couple. Huh? This is going to be a comedy?
But as the festival circuit buzz built, so did my anticipation to see Juno. When I finally did see it last December, I was thrilled that it was the first comedy I'd seen in months (say, since Superbad) that had more than exceeded my high expectations for it. Every line and performance was pitch perfect.
For the last few years, there seems to be one smaller film that touches a nerve with me more than all other many movies I see--and I see a lot. There's been Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Garden State, Sideways, and more recently, Little Miss Sunshine. They often go on to be sleeper hits at the box office and critics' darlings. They begin to generate Oscar buzz (and sometimes Oscar backlash). This year it seemed inevitable that Diablo Cody's screenplay would be nominated. It brims with sharp, hip dialog that comfortably and quickly shifts between the hilarious and the heartfelt. Reading her stripping memoir Candy Girl, you get a sense of what a fierce and fearless chick Diablo truly is. The book manages to be both bawdy and naughty while telling an enticing fish out of water adventure that seems destined for a big screen as well.
So no, it wasn't surprising that Juno's screenplay was nominated for Best Screenplay. It wasn't even that shocking when Ellen Page was nominated as Best Actress since there is often a dearth of Oscar-worthy female leads and this was quite a break through role. (Although if you've seen her in Hard Candy, you know she's astoundingly talented.)
I thought nominations for Best Picture and Director were a little more surprising, but ones that were well deserved. And Juno definitely became this seasons' most impressive money maker, easily raking in over twice as much as its four Best Picture competitors. It became a wonderful word of mouth success that charmed many and even generated a top-selling soundtrack.
Did I love this movie so much because part of me wanted to be Juno? Not the being knocked up part, but I wish I were the hip and sassy girl with the sharply honed sense of humor, the one who always has the snappy retort and wields word plays like weapons. No matter what the reason is, I loved this movie. If you didn't catch Juno in the theater, I recommend checking out the DVD. Currently, both the single disc versions and the double disc one which includes a digital version are part of the top ten sellers on Amazon.com. You're going to love it, honest to blog!
New R-Rated Trailer for Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Contest Results
by Rick Duran
There's a new R-Rated trailer for Forgetting Sarah Marshall available on the official website. Definitely more R-Rated!
A while back we were running a Forgetting Sarah Marshall Movie Giveaway in conjunction with the good folks working to promote the film. We're pleased to announce that the Frat Pack Tribute's winner was Diane Allen. Congrats Diane!!
Remember, the film opens this Friday and you can read our review.
Podcast #174: Nicholas Stoller Interview
Nicholas Stoller makes his directorial debut with Forgetting Sarah Marshall, the latest hysterical R-Rated romp from the Apatow Productions camp and Universal Pictures. This time around, Stoller is directing Knocked Up scene-stealer Jason Segel, whom he previously collaborated with on Apatow’s Undeclared series. The Frat Pack Tribute had a chance to participate in a roundtable interview session with Stoller during the Forgetting Sarah Marshall Los Angeles press day.
In our interview, Nicholas Stoller discusses directing improvised material, what to expect on the DVD, his upcoming projects and the challenges of shooting Segel’s much-discussed nude scene.
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Frat Pack Give Back at Night of Too Many Stars
by Kevin Crossman
Once again the Frat Pack made an impact at Comedy Central's Night of Too Many Stars, broadcast last evening. The event was hosted again by Jon Stewart and is a benefit for austiasm research and awareness. Participants included Ben Stiller, Jonah Hill, Will Arnett, Stephen Colbert, Fred Armisen, Amy Poehler, Chris Rock, Jerry Stiller, and more. The replay is available on the Comedy Central website for a short time.
Donate now! Learn more about autism and some educational programs at www.newyorkcenterforautism.com, www.alpinelearninggroup.org, and www.autismspeaks.org.
Steve Carell drinks six gin & tonics, eats a
whole chocolate cake and a bottle of cough syrup
Will Ferrell Dusted Off His George W. Bush Impression
Ben Stiller and Will Forte
E! Debuts Respectful True Hollywood Story about Luke and Owen Wilson
by Kevin Crossman
We think we do a pretty good job covering what's happening with our beloved Fratters, but it's clear we're not always on our A-game. Point of fact: we have no idea E! was running a True Hollywood Story about Luke and Owen Wilson. Thankfully, Bonniech from our message boards was on the spot with this review:
When I first heard about this I rolled my eyes because E! has the tendency to sensationalize their stories and I figured the Wilson's were given this "honor" only because of Owen's troubles. With that said I watched this tonight and was quite impressed. They were very sensitive over Owen's situation and didn't promote the "rumors" out there which was a pleasant and welcomed surprise. If you didn't catch it I suggest you do, then share your thoughts and see if you agree.
Some random thoughts:
- My favorite part of the story was the details involving Owen's time at Military School.
- Owen sure did give his parents a workout.
- The one negative: Poor Andrew....he gets only a footnote.
- The one positive: They remembered Andrew.
- I found it ironic how they discussed Luke not being able to handle the paparazzi while dating Gwyneth Paltrow and then to have his brother become a paparazzi magnet.
- I can't tell you how happy I was that they had the Psychologist they did and not Dr. Drew. I was afraid since he's a E! show that they would've had him yapping his jaw on the show and thankfully they didn't.
- It's heartwarming of how close this family is. That's so rare in Hollywood. I agree with the Psychologist, that family has got to be Owen's saving grace.
- I really hope Owen is writing again. And hopefully he's writing with Wes.
- One gripe: Why do people think if one brother is more famous then the other that there has got to be the Cain and Abel concept?
- Impressed that Luke holds two records in track at his school 20 years later. Go Luke!
Thanks Bonnie. The show did do a credible job covering the brothers. They even mentioned the Frat Pack, though interestingly there was nary a mention of Steve Carell (understandable) or Jack Black (glaring omission - Bongwater anyone?).
This episode of E! True Hollywood Story will be re-running throughout the weekend.
Music Video for Forgetting Sarah Marshall
by Adam Stevenson
EW.com has posted a hilarious music video for Russel Brand's character in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Aldous Snow of Infant Sorrow, called "We've Got to Do Something." Infant Sorrow also has a MySpace page.
The new tie-in music video for the movie suggests why, as the cheeky, overwrought song finds the smug Snow prances around on a busy street and standing in a public transportation terminal and singing to passersby about the world's injustices, while holding up signs that say "False untruths kill" and "Sodomize intolerance." It also features him dry humping the marble floor of the terminal and groping a nun.
This is probably something we will find on the DVD. But here it is for you viewing pleasure.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall Premiere Photos
by Laura Telles
A who's who of Team Apatow at the Forgetting Sarah Marshall premiere in Hollywood last evening.
FSM star and writer Jason Segel
