OPTIMUS PRIME and BUMBLEBEE were on hand as Transfomers: The Ride – 3D had its red carpet grand opening today at Universal Studios Hollywood. You can follow today’s red carpet event on Twitter:  @UniStudios 

“Transformers: The Ride—3D” opens Friday, May 25, 2012, with early park entrance for Memorial Day Weekend beginning Saturday, May 26 through Monday, May 28. Gates will open at 7:30am for early access to “Transformers: The Ride—3D” and the world-famous Studio Tour. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for additional information.

“Transformers: The Ride—3D” is based on the iconic brand from Hasbro and electrifying film franchise, directed by Michael Bay, and celebrated for its multi-generational appeal, inventive storyline, spectacular action sequences and amazing special effects. The most recent movie, TRANSFORMERS: Dark of the Moon has become the fourth largest grossing movie of all time at the global box office.

The thrill ride will tell a new “TRANSFORMERS” story using original, photo-realistic 3D-HD media, sophisticated special effects masterminded by Industrial Light & Magic, and one of the most elaborate roaming flight simulator ride systems ever created.

Fusing high-tech elements with an epic new “TRANSFORMERS” tale, “Transformers: The Ride–3D” will be Universal Studios Hollywood’s most ambitious ride ever created and will set a new standard in the world of theme park attractions, stretching the medium’s potential as an immersive and powerful storytelling vehicle.

In the “TRANSFORMERS” movies, Earth’s humans are caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between alien robots, the heroic AUTOBOTS and the evil DECEPTICONS, that physically convert from common mechanical devices, such as cars, trucks and planes to robotic warriors.

“Transformers: The Ride–3D” is being created under a license between Universal Parks & Resorts and Hasbro, Inc.

The ride’s pioneering photo realistic 3D media is being created by multiple Oscar® -winning Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), a division of Lucasfilms, Ltd., the ground-breaking visionary special effects company behind such acclaimed films as “TRANSFORMERS,” “Avatar,” “Iron Man” and “Star Wars.”

“TRANSFORMERS,” the first in the film’s trilogy, debuted in 2007 and garnered three Academy Award® nominations.  The sequel, “TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN,” opened in 2009 and earned an Academy Award® nomination.  The third film in the franchise, “TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON,” premiered in 2011.  The three “TRANSFORMERS” films were directed by Michael Bay, executive produced by Steven Spielberg and released by Paramount Pictures.

DreamWorks Animation today announced that it has agreed to form a joint venture with China Media Capital, with plans to include Shanghai Media Group and Shanghai Alliance Investment, Ltd., to establish the leading China-focused family entertainment company.

Oriental DreamWorks will engage in the development and production of high-quality original Chinese animated and live action content for distribution both within China and to other territories around the globe. In addition to content creation, the joint venture will pursue business opportunities in the areas of live entertainment, theme parks, mobile, online, interactive games and consumer products.

“We are incredibly proud to establish Oriental DreamWorks alongside CMC, SMG and SAIL in this groundbreaking and historic alliance to create the leading Chinese-branded family entertainment company,” said DreamWorks Animation’s Chief Executive Officer, Jeffrey Katzenberg. “Together with our partners in China, we look forward to building a first-of-its-kind enterprise to locally conceive, produce and distribute high-quality creative content and family entertainment experiences – not only for the people of China but also for related export markets.”

“We share the same vision with DreamWorks Animation to build a world-class family entertainment company,” commented Ruigang Li, Chairman of China Media Capital. “By combining the expertise of CMC in investment and operation, SMG in media and entertainment management, SAIL in high-tech R&D, as well as DreamWorks Animation in creative processes, innovative technology and global network capabilities, Oriental DreamWorks will be in a unique position to create high-quality content and interactive entertainment products for China and international markets.”

The Chinese companies will hold a majority stake of approximately 55% in Oriental DreamWorks and DreamWorks Animation will hold approximately 45%. The enterprise will initially be capitalized with cash and intellectual property valued at $330 million. The joint venture plans to launch business operations in Shanghai later this year.

DreamWorks Animation has enjoyed a great track record of success at the box office in China, led by its blockbuster Kung Fu Panda franchise. Kung Fu Panda was the #1 animated film upon its release into China in 2008 and last year, Kung Fu Panda 2 became the highest-grossing animated film of all time in the region, grossing approximately $100 million.

About DreamWorks Animation

DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series, live entertainment properties and online virtual worlds, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for four consecutive years. In 2012, DreamWorks Animation ranks #14 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are now being produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 23 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar , Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon.

About China Media Capital

China Media Capital (CMC) is China’s first media sector focused fund dedicated to media and entertainment investments in China and internationally. Approved by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) for an initial fund size of RMB 5 billion, CMC’s prominent founding partners include China Development Bank (CDB), one of China’s largest financial institutions with registered capital of over RMB 300 billion and total assets of over RMB 5 trillion. CMC’s investment portfolio includes a controlling stake in News Corporation’s China assets, including TV channels – Star (Xing Kong), Star (Xing Kong) International and Channel V (China) – as well as the Fortune Star movie library, which is the largest movie library across Asia.

About Shanghai Media Group

The second largest media conglomerate in China, Shanghai Media Group (SMG) has the country’s most comprehensive portfolio of media-related businesses, including television (14 analog channels, 15 digital channels), radio (11 frequencies), print media (9 newspapers and magazines), new media (IPTV, mobile TV and Internet TV), home shopping, content distribution, performing arts, education and talent management. In addition to being China’s leader in delivering content and services in the traditional media sector, SMG has the country’s largest TV shopping outlet and dominant IPTV operation.

About Shanghai Alliance Investment, Ltd.

As an investment arm of the Shanghai municipal government, Shanghai Alliance Investment, Ltd. (SAIL), founded in 1994, has established itself as a leader in China’s high-tech and financial sector investment. The mission of SAIL is to deliver value for its shareholders as well as make contributions to China’s development by providing resources to innovative technology companies. SAIL’s target industries include financial service, TMT, life science, health care, and emerging low-carbon sectors such as clean energy, new material and eco-environment protection. Capitalizing on its distinctive local experience, extensive government networking, industry expertise and strategic insights, SAIL is recognized as a preferred Chinese partner for leading international corporations.

100th Anniversary Activities Include Major Film Restoration, New Logo Unveiling,
Home Entertainment Offerings, Theme Park Celebrations,
Signature Events and Sweeping Social Media Campaign

Universal will mark its 100^th anniversary in 2012, and will commemorate its centennial with a yearlong celebration honoring the studio’s rich film history and cultural legacy. The campaign draws its inspiration from Universal’s extraordinary and diverse library of films, many of which will be highlighted throughout the year, and is designed to engage fans of all ages in the art of moviemaking.

A significant element of the centennial includes the extensive restoration of 13 of the studio’s most beloved titles such as To Kill a Mockingbird, All Quiet on the Western Front, Jaws, The Sting, Out of Africa, Frankenstein and Schindler’s List.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment will kick off the celebration in January with a special 50^th anniversary release of To Kill a Mockingbird, debuting on Blu-ray^TM for the first time ever. Throughout the year, Universal will pay tribute to other influential films in the Universal library with special events and Blu-ray^TM releases of such iconic classics as Jaws and E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, which celebrates its 30^th anniversary.

Universal will reveal an updated animated logo tied to the centennial. The animated logo will make its first appearance in front of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax at its premiere in February, and for that film’s U.S. theatrical release on March 2^nd. (The new static version of this logo is unveiled today and is featured at the top of this release.) Other activities surrounding the studio’s 100th anniversary include a vibrant social media campaign, special events, theme park activities, promotions and many surprises to engage fans throughout the yearlong celebration.

“This is a proud moment for all of us who’ve had the privilege of working at Universal Pictures,” said Ron Meyer, Universal Studios President and COO. “Our centennial is designed to bring special memories back to longtime movie lovers and fans, and to engage new audiences with our extraordinary library of films for the first time. Our goal, 100 years later, is to preserve, restore and continue the iconic legacy of this studio for generations to come.”

Fans and film enthusiasts can start celebrating online today at the official Universal Centennial website, http://Universal100th.com, a one-stop destination dedicated to Universal’s 100 years. The site, as well as a number of social media platforms, will bring the centennial to life online. Universal will be sharing archival content on its brand new Tumblr (http://universal100.tumblr.com/); fans of Universal classics on Facebook will find exclusives and special opportunities across their favorite pages; followers of @UniversalPics on Twitter can find the activities using the hashtag #Universal100; Foursquare users who check in at iconic Universal locations such as the studio and theme parks will be able to unlock special behind-the-scenes tips and content; and for those who are followers of fashion, Universal’s Pinterest account (www.pinterest.com/universal) will be drawing inspiration from favorite films for everyone’s Pinboards, starting with 10 inaugural titles of pop-culture classics such as The Breakfast Club, Scarface, Sixteen Candles, Bridget Jones’s Diary and Bridesmaids. These online initiatives will roll out throughout various times of the year and will tie back to the Universal Centennial official site.

In the spring, select fans will have the opportunity to attend a special gala anniversary celebration on the lot featuring many of the filmmakers and artists who shaped the studios history. In addition, the studio will spotlight the 100th Anniversary throughout various worldwide film festivals and other featured events, panels and activities.

On April 30, 1912, Universal Film Manufacturing Company filed its certificate of incorporation with the state ofNew York. In 1915, Carl Laemmle officially openedUniversalCity, the largest film production facility in the world. Throughout Universal’s 100 years, the studio has served as a home for many of the most talented filmmakers of all time (such as Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, Peter Jackson, Spike Lee, John Hughes and Judd Apatow)  and created films that have touched the hearts of millions and fueled culture’s fascination with cinema. To share the profound legacy of its artists, the studio will highlight their careers with touching personal stories from filmmakers, talent, crews, employees and fans.

Universal’s key centennial activities included throughout the anniversary year are as follows:

• Major Film Restoration Commitment

Universal will restore 13 films over the course of the centennial year. The restoration effort includes the following films: All Quiet on the Western Front, The Birds, Buck Privates, Dracula (1931), Dracula Spanish (1931), Frankenstein, Jaws, Schindler’s List, Out of Africa, Pillow Talk, Bride of Frankenstein, The Sting andTo Kill a Mockingbird.

• Unveiling of New Logo

Universal will reveal an updated animated logo at the February premiere of the upcoming feature Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax and at that film’sU.S. theatrical debut on March 2, 2012.  The updated logo will be used on all Universal Pictures films going forward, and will be integrated into all aspects of the company’s business as well.

• Home Entertainment

Universal Home Entertainment will be introducing a limited edition 100th Anniversary Collector’s Series featuring some of the aforementioned film restorations on Blu-ray^TM in collectible, book-style packaging showcasing rare movie memorabilia and brand new 10-minute video featurettes. In addition, special collections will be released throughout the year, culminating in the highly anticipated Blu-ray^TM releases of Universal’s Classic Monster and Alfred Hitchcock series. A selection of movies that have shaped Universal’s legacy will also be released in commemorative packaging, many of them on Blu-ray^TM for the first time ever.

• Theme Park Celebrations

Universal’s Parks and Resorts will help highlight the campaign with centennial specific content and merchandise throughout both theOrlandoandHollywoodlocations. TheOrlandoresort will soon announce a specially themed entertainment experience that will celebrate Universal’s heritage. At the iconicHollywoodpark, the world-famous Studio Tour features expert guides that will take guests on a tour through 100 years of moviemaking history on the Universal Studios production backlot. Tours are conducted daily, visiting TV and movie sets ranging from the early Universal Studios monster film classics to current productions.

• Website and Social Media Campaign

Universal will be engaging fans across multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Tumblr (http://universal100.tumblr.com/) and Pinterest. At the center of all online initiatives lies a rich, robust website dedicated to all things related to the yearlong celebration of Universal’s 100^th Anniversary. For more information, please visit http://Universal100th.com.

Become a fan of Universal Pictures on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/UniversalPictures

Follow Universal on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/universalpics

In honor of the holiday movie season, Universal Studios Hollywood’s GRINCHMAS is celebrating Christmas beginning today, December 18th through January 2, 2011.

Grinchmas will be filled with the Grinch, his faithful dog Max, tons of fresh snow and a “Whoville Whobilation” at the original movie sets where the classic “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was filmed.

Nightly tree-lighting ceremonies, celebrity readings of “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and encounters with a “Who’s Who” of Whoville characters will be part of the celebration, which expands this year to 18 days, beginning on December 11 and 12 and continuing daily from December 18 through January 2, 2011. “Grinchmas” is included in the price of theme park admission. More information, including holiday promotional offers and information regarding celebrity readings of “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” will be available at:  www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com and on Facebook HERE.

Stephen Moyer, Jeffrey Tambor, Brandy, Bob Newhart, Jon Lovitz, Fred Willard and Joey Lawrence are among the celebrity stars to read “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Grinchmas” Celebration Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Universal Studios Hollywood Tour Guide, Molly Orr sat-down with Grinchmas star Max the Dog to get the update!

Larry Kurzweil, President, Universal Studios Hollywood, said: “’Grinchmas’ has become a true holiday tradition, an event where families can enjoy a slightly irreverent approach to the season while still being thoroughly immersed in holiday spirit. Because we expect very strong attendance during Christmas week, we’re adding five dates to this year’s ‘Grinchmas’ schedule in response to the event’s growing popularity.”

Guests will find an immersive holiday atmosphere. A whimsical, curving “Grinchmas” tree will tower 60 feet above the center of a snow-covered “Grinchmas” winter wonderland and will be lit in a nightly ceremony that will feature a colorfully costumed “Whoville” choir caroling and spreading holiday cheer. The Grinch and his faithful dog Max will be on hand to meet fans and take memorable holiday photos. Families will also be able to enjoy traditional winter fun, romping together in a playground of snow and building their own snowmen.

“Grinchmas” will also provide fans of the blockbuster movie a close-up view of the original “Whoville” film sets, featured in the classic “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” aboard the world-famous behind-the-scenes Studio Tour. As the tram rolls to a stop amid the fanciful “Whoville” buildings, guests will experience a one-of-a-kind performance by “Whoville’s” residents re-enacting favorite scenes and songs from the film.

Guests who attend Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Grinchmas” celebration will be able to purchase the “Buy a Day, Get 2011 Free” annual pass, a tremendous value allowing them to visit Universal Studios Hollywood throughout the coming year.

So bring your friends and share the true meaning of Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Grinchmas!

First the actors guild warned their members on Friday to stay clear of the upcoming Peter Jackson helmed HOBBIT films. Then on Sunday morning Jackson responded in kind with his own statement. Now it’s the studios turn.

New Line, Warner Bros. Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures are concerned by the recent allegations of unfair treatment of actors in New Zealand and instructions from the performers’ guilds to their membership to withhold services from the producers of THE HOBBIT in New Zealand.

We are proud to have good relations with all of those performers’ guilds and value their contribution to the motion pictures produced in their respective jurisdictions throughout the world. But we believe that in this case the allegations are baseless and unfair to Peter Jackson and his team in Wellington who have been tireless supporters of the New Zealand motion picture community.

To classify the production as “non-union” is inaccurate. The cast and crew are being engaged under collective bargaining agreements where applicable and we are mindful of the rights of those individuals pursuant to those agreements. And while we have previously worked with MEAA, an Australian union now seeking to represent actors in New Zealand, the fact remains that there cannot be any collective bargaining with MEAA on this New Zealand production, for to do so would expose the production to liability and sanctions under New Zealand law. This legal prohibition has been explained to MEAA. We are disappointed that MEAA has nonetheless continued to pursue this course of action.

Motion picture production requires the certainty that a production can reasonably proceed without disruption and it is our general policy to avoid filming in locations where there is potential for work force uncertainty or other forms of instability. As such, we are exploring all alternative options in order to protect our business interests.

Source: Deadline Hollywood

The official press release from Dreamworks Animation:

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (Nasdaq: DWA) announced today (Sept. 27, 2010) that famed Oscar-nominated director Guillermo del Toro has named the studio his home for animated feature film projects. Del Toro will join Andrew Adamson and Michelle Raimo as Executive Producer on Puss In Boots, which is scheduled to be released on November 4, 2011.

DreamWorks Animation has acquired from del Toro Trollhunters (working title), an original project from which the Company plans to produce a 3D animated feature film, which will be written and directed by del Toro himself. The exciting new story of Trollhunters is being kept entirely under wraps at the studio. Additionally, del Toro will consult on a number of DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming feature film releases.

“Animation is a singularly unique medium in that it allows an artist to envision, articulate and manipulate whole new worlds that spark the imagination in amazing ways,” said Guillermo del Toro. “Nowhere have I found a greater concentration of spirit and creativity than at DreamWorks Animation and I cannot imagine a better place for me to pursue my ambition as a filmmaker: to tell the best possible stories that can reach the biggest number of people around the world.”

“On behalf of the entire studio, I’d like to warmly welcome Guillermo into the DreamWorks family of filmmakers; we are incredibly honored that he has chosen our studio as his home for feature animation,” said Bill Damaschke, Co-President of Production at DreamWorks Animation. “Guillermo brings a unique vision and unmatched level of inventiveness to his storytelling and we cannot wait to see what he can do together with our creative team here at DreamWorks Animation.”

Source: DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.

KONG: THE EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD has returned.

My favorite theme park has always been Universal Studios Hollywood. For movie lovers, it’s like being a kid in a candy store. Movie-themed attractions, games, food and rides, not to mention the world famous Tram Tour that takes visitors on a tour of a working Hollywood movie studio back lot.

You get to see where famous movies and TV shows, past and present were filmed and there are surprises around every corner. I go at least 3 times a year, when friends and family visit, or to just check out the latest attractions and rides.

So you can imagine my horror back in June 2008 when a fire broke out and burned down a huge portion of the back lot. Among the casualties was the King Kong attraction that was part of the tram tour. They would drive the tram into a huge soundstage and you were instantly transported to New York City where the famous ape was running amok. The fun special effects included fire, smoke, helicopters, and search lights, all leading to the final climax where Kong himself roars at the guests on the tram, banana breath and all. Needless to say it was cool.

When it was announced that the new King Kong attraction was finally ready to re-open, I knew it was something I had to see. And I must admit I was a bit skeptical. It bragged of CGI and 3-D special effects created by no other than Peter Jackson himself, famed movie director of the 2005 remake of King Kong. The CGI and 3-D technology that has become such a huge part of blockbuster, adventure, and animated movies of late is fun, but some critics and movie fans claim that after awhile, it all starts to look the same, and I have to agree. This was my concern going in.

But I have to admit, the minute that tram entered the soundstage, that was all out the window. This was some serious fun. On either side of the tram are 2 giant screens. As we enter Skull Island , we are instructed to put on our 3-D glasses and we are transported deep into the jungle right in the middle of a fierce battle. As our tram is attacked by some amazingly realistic 3-D dinousaurs, King Kong comes to the rescue and kicks some serious dinosaur butt. It’s so exciting, you have to see it for yourself.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

This is one of those attractions that if it were separate from the tram tour, you would want to do it over and over again. I highly suggest that if you live in SoCal or are planning to visit, take a day to go to Universal Studios Hollywood and experience King Kong 360 3D.

You can find Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook here.

Visit the official site at : http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/

“Ladies and gentlemen, look at Kong, the Eighth Wonder of the World.”

-Carl Denham, King Kong (1933)

Just two years after a fire destroyed the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot, the southern California theme park’s most entertaining attraction makes its return in King Kong 360 3-D!

Unveiling today as part of the Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Tour, visitors will get their first look at the newly designed, high-tech world of the famous ape.

Climb aboard!

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO… that’s gonna be AWESOME!!!

Guests on the park-favorite backlot tram tour can expect all the thrills of the original attraction, but with the added bonus of Peter Jackson’s concept and the ever popular 3-D technology.

Universal Studios show producer Valerie Johnson-Redrow said, “the initial thought was, of course, to go back to Peter Jackson’s 2005 film and re-imagine KING KONG in an entirely new way for the studio tour.”

Before boarding the tram, riders are given 3-D glasses and instructed by Jackson in a video when to don them for the brawl, which at one point cleverly depicts the last car of the tram being ripped off. (AP)

Sound like fun? Check back for my review after I have a one-on-one with old Banana Breath next week.

Visit the official site at : http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/

Paramount Pictures has put plans into full gear to get the word out for M. Night Shyamalan’s THE LAST AIRBENDER. As you can see below, producer Frank Marshall recently tweeted about a “massive AIRBENDER domestic and international marketing meeting,” along with a picture.

Hat-tip to LastAirbenderFans for this new, behind-the-scenes featurette featuring a guided tour of the film’s sets from the director himself. It’s an interesting sneak peek at the massive undertaking to build these sets on the East Coast of the U.S. As usual, I love to hear from M. Night. He’s always so enthusiastic for every one of his films.

Become the Avatar over at THE LAST AIRBENDER Facebook game! It’s very much like MafiaWars and Farmville. Have a go at it and learn how to bend the four elements. Invite your friends, engage in battles, and restore balance to the world.

After you’ve mastered the game, head over to rejoice in your new power and download NEW wallpapers from the official site of THE LAST AIRBENDER! While there have a look around at the rest of the site and discover your element.

Finally, on June 29th, Lakeshore Records will be releasing the soundtrack to THE LAST AIRBENDER. For now, you can hear 30 second clips from Shyamalan’s long time collaborator James Newton Howard’s score over at MySpace. Once again Howard has composed another beautiful score. You can preorder the cd at Amazon.

Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Aang (Noah Ringer) discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film THE LAST AIRBENDER is the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to survive.

From Paramount Pictures, THE LAST AIRBENDER will be in theaters in 3-D July 2.

When it was being reported late last year that JONAH HEX would be going back for re-shoots in mid-January, some were wondering what this would do with the time table for Josh Brolin’s next film, CARTEL.  Evidently, it had been pushed back to May, but, now, Deadline is reporting Universal Pictures has other plans.  The studio has pulled the plug completely on the film, slated to be directed by Asger Leth and starring Brolin as a man who seeks revenge against the Mexican cartel that killed his wife.  Production was set to begin in five weeks.

Mike Fleming of Deadline states concerns over the budget, the film’s screenplay, and with shooting such a drug-heavy film on location in Mexico.  There were some issues early on even in the film’s casting, as Sean Penn was originally set to star.  After he dropped out of film making for personal reasons, Brolin stepped in.

The cancellation on the film came from an official statement from Universal:

Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment ceased pre-production of Cartel today. As much as we had hoped to begin filming this spring in Mexico City, the studio and its producing partners did not feel it was creatively ready to move forward under the timetable and budget we had established. We thank all of the filmmakers, cast and crew for their work during pre-production.

I never thought one actress’ presence would mean so much to the life of a project, especially an acress whose character died at the end of its predecessor.  Yes, folks, that’s a spoiler for Timur Bekmambetov’s 2008 hit WANTED, and, if you haven’t seen it already, then you probably don’t care that its sequel has hit a brick wall.

Vulture is reporting that Angelina Jolie leaving the project for Alfonso Cuaron’s next film, GRAVITY, is putting Universal in a loop.  Instead of recasting the part, or even writing her out completely (she’s dead, remember?), they are pulling the plug altogether.  This could be an instinctive reaction on Universal’s part, since GRAVITY was, at one time there’s, and they put it in turnaround.

GRAVITY, now under the Warner Brothers umbrella, tells the story of a woman on a space station who is attempting to get back to Earth and her daughter.  The film poses an interesting challenge, as Jolie’s character is, essentially, the only character in the film for large chunks of the film.  With Cuaron on board to, though, I’m sure the film will be breathtaking to say the very least.

As for WANTED 2, die hard fans might not have to cry in their beer just yet.  Universal may revisit the idea of the project down the road a tick, rewriting it around Jolie’s character, casting a new actress in the part, or just waiting for Jolie to come around and take on the role again.  Bad blood at Universal may stop the latter form happening, but you never know.  A burnt bridge today usually ends up flourishing into a Golden Gate somewhere down the line.

You see, all you kiddie, movie bloggers.  If you keep up with your writing, eat your vegetables, and make some connections, you can get somewhere in this business.  IESB’s Robert Sanchez and Shock Till You Drop’s Ryan Rotten are among the executive producers on I, FRANKENSTEIN.  The Heat Vision Blog is reporting Lakeshore has picked up the script and the production reigns on the film, which Death Ray Films has had in its sights since April.  Patrick Tatopoulos is set to direct.

The new film will be a modernized tale featuring the classic monster as well as other monsters of classic, Universal fame.  Set in the world of film noir, the film follows Frankenstein, who is a private detective, as he stands between the human race and supernatural creatures set on wiping it out.

Concept art was released back in August, and, from the look and concept of this project, it seems like it is going to be quite cool.  Plus, it’s always a good sign when fellow website writers/owners break out in any way.

No release date or start date on production has been announced.

At every Sundance Film Festival, one of the most talked about aspects involves the films that are picked up for distribution.  That is, after all, the main reason film makers and production companies show their films at this huge event.  And, just like clockwork, every year has in store a few surprise distribution deals that come before the opening gates of the festival have even opened.

Such is the case with Gaspar Noe’s ENTER THE VOID, as is being reported by IndieWire.  Evidently, IFC Films has announced they have picked up all US rights to Noe’s film about a teenager who dies during a botched drug deal but continues to roam the Earth as a ghost.  This is Noe’s first feature film since the highly controversial IRREVERSIBLE in 2002.

Says IFC Entertainment President Jonathan Sehring:

ENTER THE VOID is an experience that is almost impossible to describe.  Gaspar Noe is at the peak of his filmmaking powers with this film that is destined to become a cult classic.   The entire team is thrilled to be working on this film and with Gaspar. It’s the perfect film for all of our platforms.

The film debuted at Cannes and Toronto last year.  It makes its US debut this coming weekend at Sundance.  Be sure to check back for our coverage of the film including a review and an interview with Gaspar Noe during the festival.

Expect ENTER THE VOID to hits theaters and on-demand viewing at home some time in 2010.

Maybe it’s just because I never really spent much time thinking about it or observing it until recently (writing for a movie news site will do that to you), but it seems more and more movies are having their release dates shuffled around like living room furniture.  Particularly is the case with the Weinstein Company, which, according to the LA Times, has decided April 16 just isn’t the right time of year for PIRANHA to infest local theaters.  Instead, the Alexandre Aja-directed, 3-D remake/sequel is going to gnaw its way into theaters in August, and that’s at the very earliest.

The reasoning behind this move?  In a nutshell, their scared of Lionsgate’s KICK-ASS, set to release on April 16, a film that will pretty much be aiming itself a the same, core audience.  A rep from Weinstein made note that the date change had no financial motivations.

The article in the LA Times goes on to speculate the potential future of the Weinstein Company, since much of their recent slate hasn’t brought in high numbers and their future slate becomes a jumbled mess when you look at all the release date changes involved.  Don’t count the Weinsteins out, though.  Just when you think their out, they reach out and pull themselves back up.

What do you think?  Were you looking forward to PIRANHA 3-D in April?  How do you think this change will effect its box office?  Is this one more note in the death knell for the Weinstein Company?  Let us know by shooting us a comment below.

No, we don’t love Darren Aronofsky because we think a ROBOCOP remake is a horrible, awful idea and anything he can do to muck up the waterworks is A-okay in our book.  We, actually, are frothing at the mouth at the idea of Aronofsky making a run at the ROBOCOP reboot, hoping that his style and love for hard-hitting, edgy drama will kick both the film and us in the theater seat-filling ass.  No, the reason we love Aronofsky so much is because here is a man who knows when a studio is full of reactive, gimmick-hungry pinheads who wouldn’t know an original idea if it pulled a pistol from its holster and shot them between the legs.

And, so it goes with a report today from Moviehole that pre-production on the remake has been put on hold.  Evidently, Mary Parent, the chairperson of MGM, wants ROBOCOP to be shot in glorious, guts-in-your-face 3-D.  Aronofsky, to the immense credit the man deserves, gave her, the studio, and Leo the Lion the proverbial finger.

Actually, let’s let the scooper Moviehole got this information provide the details:

I’ve spoken with Phoenix Pictures [and] asked them about the status of ROBOCOP… they told me that the project is on hold. The problem is that Mary Parent, Chairperson of MGM,  wants a 3D movie for the new ROBOCOP. But ,as you know, Darren Aronofsky is a real artist and he’s not interested in Gimmicks like,3D,CGI,Filming digital, he wants to do everything as real (organic) as possible just like THE FOUNTAIN.

To which I say, “Bravo, Mr. Aronofsky.  You are a true man of your craft.”

Unfortunately, it hasn’t looked good for ROBOCOP in recent months, anyway, especially with all this auction/selling itself off to the highest bidder MGM is going through right now.

Of course, we can all thank James Cameron and the wonderful 3-D in AVATAR for putting this little bit of poison in the ear of studio execs around the world.  Every film and its brother are going to have their run through the 3-D gamut, and, it’s fortunate for all of us that there are still directors like Aronofsky out there who are willing to stand up for their craft and against this type of gimmick-idolatry.  It could, indeed, mean we’ll never get to see Aronofsky’s version of ROBOCOP, but at least the man stood up for what he believes.

Screenwriter Peter Morgan recently said he was working on a “shocking story” for the upcoming BOND 23, but the real shock came today, as Anne Thompson via her IndieWire Blog says EON Productions is putting pre-production on the film on hold.   Work on the next adventure for 007 is on hold pending the outcome of the MGM sale.   First bids on the auction of the studio’s properties were expected after Thanksgiving, but no word has come down on any, serious offers.

In a recent interview with Total Film, producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli had this to say about the film’s status:

Our timeline’s a little up in the air what with the situation at MGM, so we have to be flexible. We just don’t know enough about the situation to comment, but we know it’s uncertain.

Of course, the writing has been on the wall for some time regarding BOND 23′s fast-track pre-production status.   Morgan has indicated that pre-production wouldn’t get fully underway until February, and stars Daniel Craig and Dame Judi Dench have indicated actual production on the film wouldn’t begin until the last quarter of 2010.

Word could come any day that a solid buyer has swooped in to take up the BOND franchise, and the same could be said for THE HOBBIT project, which seems may have a likely delay, as well.   The only thing for certain is that BOND 23 will be happening, it’s just a matter of when at this point.

You got to Summit Entertainment credit on one front.  They are sticking with vampires like a nicely placed stake through the heart.  It’s probably a good thing for them, too, considering, at the pace they are going, the TWILIGHT films are going to run out in the next two years.  The Hollywood Reporter is reporting that Summit is staying with vampires but going in a slightly altered direction.

The studio has picked up rights to VLAD, a screenplay by Charlie Hunnam, who some of you may know as the lead character, Jax, on FX’s biker series SONS OF ANARCHY.  Brad Pitt’s Plan B production company is also on board to produce, and negotiations are underway with music video director Anthony Mandler to helm.

The film, referred to as a more action-oriented telling of Dracula as a young prince, has been sitting at Summit for some time.  It wasn’t until execs saw a reel of Mandler’s work that the project got the boost it needed.  Mandler’s work has been compared to the work Zack Snyder did on 300, not something that would make a studio exec yawn for someone else.

No word on whether Pitt will have a role other than producer or when a start date on production is planned.

TRON: LEGACY is raising tons of hype in the geek community after their impressive display of special effects at this past Comic-Con and their awesome viral marketing with Flynn’s Arcade. The mythology of Tron has always been very close to me because my uncle played the title character. Enough about that though! Word has reached the film blogs (via HeatVision) that the team behind the upcoming TRON: LEGACY will be teaming up to reinvent the 1979 Disney Sci-Fi film, THE BLACK HOLE. I have not seen the film (alas, one has slipped through the cracks…I’m not perfect) but here is the plot synopsis from IMDB:

It is the year 2130 A.D. An Earth exploratory ship, the USS Palomino, discovers a black hole with a lost ship, the USS Cygnus, just outside its event horizon. Deciding to solve the mystery of the Cygnus are: the Palomino’s Captain, Dan Holland; his First Officer, Lieutenant Charlie Pizer; journalist Harry Booth; scientist and ESP-sensitive Dr. Kate McCrae, whose father was the Cygnus’s First Officer; Dr. Alex Durant, the expedition’s civilian leader; and the robot known as V.I.N.CENT. The Palomino attempts a dangerous fly-by of the darkened ship. As they come within close range of it, the buffeting they experience (due to the black hole’s gravity) suddenly ceases. They bring more instruments to bear on the derelict, but do not even realize the gravity-free zone is artificial; slipping outside it, they are almost drawn into the black hole, an abyss from which no one can escape. Matters worsen when Reinhardt holds the crew captive, after realizing that they can help him reach his goal. The squad must now figure out a way to flee from Reinhardt — before it’s too late. (Summary Credit: IMDB User Anthony Pereyr)

Sounds quite cool to me (as I click “add” on my Netflix queue) and I feel that based on what footage we saw from Comic-Con, Director Joseph Kosinski and Producer Sean Bailey may just be the guys for the job. With TRON: LEGACY coming out in December of 2010 however, Kosinski’s plate seems pretty full so we may not see any more news on this for at least a few months.

Check out the trailer for the 1979 original below and leave your thoughts on this new development!

Here’s something for everyone of you out there who were saving up for the TERMINATOR franchise but just couldn’t quite pick up the funds.   Variety is reporting that MGM may be putting itself out to the display window, and an auction on the studios library and logo may be occurring in the next couple of weeks.   A third auction for United Artists may be planned, as well.

The company has been going through major upheavals since CEO Harry Sloan was bumped from his position last Summer.   A restructuring of the company were attempted, but, it appears, the total assets of the company may end up being worth as little as $1.5 billion.

While some bondholders have stated they have not been contacted yet, a sale of the company would require a two-thirds majority vote.   Time Warner is expected to make a last minute bid.

MGM has been struggling for quite some time with only the James Bond franchise as a major player.   What this means for BOND 23 is anyone’s guess, but someone could, possibly, step in to take over marketing and distribution duties.   There is no telling where this will leave the other films on MGM’s upcoming slate including the RED DAWN and POLTERGEIST remakes and the two HOBBIT films.

Paramount really wants their horror, and they want it early.  According to Variety, the studio has signed a first-look deal with Michael Bay’s Platinum Dunes, famous for developing and backing low budget horror movies, most of them remakes.  This marks the first term deal from Adam Goodman, since he stepped in as president of the Paramount Pictures Film Group in June.

Says Goodman about the deal:

What makes us so excited to have Platinum Dunes here at Paramount is how Michael, Brad and Andrew carved out an important niche for themselves over the past few years.  They have consistently created excitingly commercial movies that have proven to be a formidable force at the box office. We look forward to a long and productive partnership with them.

Two projects are on tap for Paramount to take a look at.  First up is ‘The Butcherhouse Chronicles,’ a thriller written by ‘The Grudge’ scribe Stephen Susco, which is being touted as ‘The Breakfast Club’ in a haunted house.  Also on deck is ‘Property of the State,’ a Howard Franklin (‘Hollow Man’ and ‘Antitrust’) scripted thriller about a white-collar criminal whose efforts to go straight are hindered by a menacing parole officer.

Platinum Dunes partner Brad Fuller says the hopes for the production company are to branch out from the horror genre and into action films and thrillers.

The key is making them at a low budget.