Grammy Nominations: Kanye West Tops With 7 Nods; Adele, Rihanna Among Album of Year Contenders

Kanye West leads the nominees for the 54th annual Grammy Awards with a total of seven mentions, including song of the year and best rap-sung collaboration.our editor recommendsGrammy Awards: Complete List of Nominees54th annual Grammy Nominees: Kanye West, Adele, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Katy PerryNicki Minaj, Katy Perry Join Grammy Nominations ConcertRihanna, Usher and The Band Perry Added To Grammy Awards Nomination ConcertLatin Grammy Awards: Calle 13 Sets Record With 19 Wins, Including Album of the YearVan Halen to Appear at Grammy Nominations Special, Possibly Perform at Awards CeremonyRelated Topics•Grammy Noms Adele, Foo Fighters and Bruno Mars followed the hip-hop star with six nominees apiece, while Lil Wayne and Skrillex each earned five noms. PHOTOS: Grammy Award Nominees While West led the nominees, he wasn't cited in the album of the year category for either November 2010 release My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy or August's Watch the Throne, a collaboration with Jay-Z (both would have been eligible under the 12-month period Oct. 1, 2010-Sept. 30, 2011). Vying for the top award will be Adele (21), Foo Fighters (Wasting Light), Lady Gaga (Born This Way), Bruno Mars (Doo-Wops & Hooligans) and Rihanna (Loud). Adele and Mars also will compete for record of the year honors with "Rolling in the Deep" and "Grenade," respectively. Also nominated in that category were Bon Iver ("Holocene"), Mumford & Sons ("The Cave") and Katy Perry ("Firework"). PHOTOS: Top 10 Highest Paid Music Artists The song of the year category featured four of the same nominees for record of the year -- "Rolling in the Deep," "Grenade," "The Cave" and "Holocene" -- which will compete with West's "All of the Lights" (with Rihanna, Kid Cudi and Fergie. Meanwhile, the best new artist category will be a competition between The Band Perry, Bon Iver, J. Cole, Nicki Minaj and Skrillex. The nominations were announced Wednesday night during CBS' Grammy Nominations Concert Live!! which was hosted by LL Cool J highlighted with performances by Jason Aldean, the Band Perry, and past Grammy Award winners Lady Gaga, Ludacis, Lupe Fiasco, Sugarland and Rihanna. Valerie Simpson and Mike Stoller -- both of whom lost their longtime songwriting partners this year -- joined Usher for a moving tribute to songwriters. PHOTOS: The Music Industry's Greatest Givers Minaj, Perry, Mars and Person of Interest's Taraji P. Henson were among the evening's presenters. The Grammy Awards are scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 12. They will air live on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Click here for the complete list of nominees. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Grammys: Top 10 Must-See Moments Related Topics Grammy Awards Kanye West Katy Perry Lady Gaga Nicki Minaj Lil Wayne Bruno Mars Adele Grammys 2012

Daniel Radcliffe Could Play Allen Ginsberg In 'Kill Your Darlings'

Serta Radcliffe may be focusing on a script nobody may wish to see, but his next is really a movie we are certainly thinking about. Twitch reviews that Radcliffe is allegedly up for negligence Beat poet Allen Ginsberg within the approaching film "Kill Your Darlings." The role initially belonged to Jesse Eisenberg once the movie was initially introduced, but sources near to Twitch say Radcliffe looks like it's taking his place. The first kind "Harry Potter" star will apparently get began around the production after he finishes his operate on Broadway in "How To Achieve Business Without Really Trying." The film, produced by author-director John Krokidas, is really a thriller according to actual occasions that happened between famous authors Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac and Lucien Carr. Carr is credited for getting together Ginsberg, Kerouac and William S Burroughs in friendship, but younger crowd notoriously offered amount of time in 1944 for killing his lover David Kammerer. It's unclear exactly what the exact plot from the movie is, but that last little factoid certainly ties to the film's plot. Chris Evans was initially said to be playing Kerouac and Ben Whishaw was mounted on play Carr when the flick was initially introduced, but it is unclear whether they are still mounted on it or whether Krokidas will assemble a brand new cast. It will likely be interesting to determine what spin Radcliffe gives around the poet, especially instead of James Franco just playing him within the well-received movie "Howl." Maybe he'll have the ability to connect with Ginsberg within the fact he's beginning to create some very good poetry. Do you consider Radcliffe is a great fit for Ginsberg? Inform us within the comments section below or on Twitter!

Bard barbs inspire teens

Normally, lots of students standing across one another hurling insults forward and backward wouldn't inspire a teacher's wanton praise.But also for producer Paul Heller ("David and Lisa," "My Left Ft") the understanding was "miracle."The barbs were plucked from Shakespeare plays -- rhythmic iambic pentameter -- as well as the teens were students at George Washington Fundamental High, involved in a drama workshop introduced by Heller, co-chair of BAFTA/LA's community outreach and education committee, which sponsors an entertainment training program that serves Los Angeles' inner-city youth."Consistency might be one's heart from this,In . Heller states in the program, which inserts mentors with students taking into consideration the humanities. "What continues frequently in inner-city efforts is always that people can be found in and spend a while, nonetheless they disappear. Here, the mentors were engaged, so when the kids felt that, they increased being excited."The program is, mainly, the development of film and tv producer Katy Haber ("Edge Runner," "The Sicilian"), founding board part of BAFTA/LA and Heller's co-chair.In summer season 2005, Haber began organizing free BAFTA/LA tests of first-run movies in Helen Keller Park, a place of South Central near Washington Prep so recognized for its gang warfare that it's nickname increased being "Helen Killer" Park.It absolutely was a screening of Baz Luhrmann's "William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet" at Washington Prep that inspired current day ongoing Shakespeare's Project."Iambic pentameter gets the same rhythm as rap," notes Haber, "which we thought, 'Why don't perform our personal output of Romeo and Juliet?'?"In May, while using participation in the Washington Prep drama department, the Shakespeare Project staged its student output of "Romeo and Juliet" within the amphitheater in Ladera Park."For the students, Shakespeare can be a language, plus it needed them plenty of attempt to realize they were showing the identical feelings the figures had," states Heller in the testing period. "Once they caught that, it absolutely was a concept. Kids will not express outward feelings. This gave them free rein to make it happen.InchGreater london-born mentor Sherill Turner ("Love's Labor Lost," Shakespeare Santa Cruz) advised Washington Prep students to consider the Montagues as well as the Capulets since the Bloods as well as the Crips to have the ability to get yourself a better understanding from the play."This is why this play can get done again and again," Turner highlights. "It's this constant notion that children are dying because of their parents' hate. It definitely is relevant. And so they really attracted on into that."A documentary featuring BAFTA/LA's training program influences works, and ground is positioned to destroy in February around the community center/screening room in Helen Keller Park.Plans may also be fast showed up for just about any spring output of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream.""The film and television business offers quite a bit to supply,In . states Haber. "How come we benefit without giving back? I strongly believe that us British people should hands back for the community."Britannia Honours 2011Bard barbs inspire teensHonoreesDavid Yates Helena Bonham Carter Warren Beatty Ben Stiller John Lasseter Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

'The Hunter,' 'Eye from the Storm' Vie for Australian AACTA Honours

Thanks to Vital Pictures Vital Pictures originates out swinging against a fraud suit filed Tuesday with a financing entity that backed a string of high-profile movies but prosecuted declaring the studio underreported huge amount of money in revenue in fraudulent accounting claims. Melrose 2, the NY-based entity that agreed in 2006 to back a slate of Vital films in return for in regards to a 25 % share of revenue, argues inside a suit filed Tuesday the studio has involved in an exercise of "under-confirming the revenue and overreporting the expenseInch due to 29 films co-funded by Melrose, including such hists as Jason Bourne 3, Rotor blades of Glory and also the Transformers series. "In comparison, 5 years after [the co-financing agreement] was signed, Melrose 2 has still not seen $ 1 of make money from its $375 million investment" regardless of the films getting in $7 billion in revenue, states the complaint, filed in Los Angeels Superior Court. But Vital responds inside a statement launched Tuesday mid-day the studio has performed fair using its financial partner: "Vital has complied using its obligations to Melrose 2 and it has been forthcoming within the audit process. We're disappointed these sophisticated traders would decide to file a suit full of hyperbole that ignores the real details instead of simply because process right through to completion. The Melrose 2 traders have previously received almost 90% of the investment back underneath the financing agreement, and many of the films by which they participate (like the effective Transformers 3) stay in the first stages of the generating potential. "In the end plan to intensely defend this suit, the variations between your parties' positions are relatively modest in amount and that we are confident they may be resolved within the regular course." The suit claims potentially huge amount of money in damages and argues that Vital has frequently attempted to hinder the audit process on specific films, in addition to charge improper expenses against its profit participation obligations. There is a lot of press coverage from the Melrose deal along with other mega-budget "slate" financing plans in 2006 and 2007. Wall Street money was flowing freely into Hollywood, and galleries were happy to accept cash in return for back-finish participations in the future. Then, once the economy crashed and hedge funds along with other financing organizations shied from movie opportunities, speculation came about about whether traders will make back their cash around the Hollywood deals. Melrose traders believe they've been scammed. Vital states it's complied using the deal. It will likely be interesting to determine how this situation works out. The suit alleges reasons for action for breach of contract, breach from the covenant of excellent belief and fair dealing, fraud, unfair competition and declaratory relief. Browse the full complaint here. Email: Matthew.Belloni@thr.com Twitter: @THRMattBelloni Vital Pictures

Melrose II Fund Suing Vital Over Profits From Transformers Together With Other Films

La, November 29, 2011 Kirkland & Ellis LLP is representing Melrose Traders 2 LP (Melrose 2) in the breach of contract situation through which Melrose 2 seeks to recoup profits connected using its nearly $375 million acquisition of 29 films produced by Vital Pictures Corporation and DW Art galleries L.L.C., formerly known to as Dreamworks Art galleries (Accused). The 29 films, including such hits as Jason Bourne 3, Charlottes Web, Dreamgirls, Flags within our Fathers, Rotor rotor blades of Glory, Jackass 2 and many types of three Transformers films, among others, make close to $7 billion so far. The investor group was wanting to head off being the next co-financing vehicle to own prosecuted against Vital and DW Art galleries LLC, but despite our ongoing efforts to remain our versions, Vital has rejected to cooperate, an agent for your investor group pointed out. The complaint alleges: In 2006, Accused became a member of right into a contract with Melrose 2 through which Melrose 2 would admit a 25% copyright fascination with around 30 films that Accused produced. To obtain this possession interest, Melrose 2 made the decision to finance an expert rata volume of the expansion costs. Melrose 2 met its obligations and requires up to now, provided nearly $375 million to Accused to produce 29 films. Inside the five years since the agreement was signed, Melrose 2 has not received any profits utilizing their nearly $375 million investment. Accused have frequently impeded Melrose 2s audits, involved with obstructionist tactics, overstated deficits and understated the revenues received concerning the the exploitation in the Melrose 2-funded films. Vital has deliberately inflated deficits and underreported gross receipts which we plan to strongly pursue our clients claims and recover its share in the profits throughout these films, mentioned Kirkland & Ellis attorney Mark Holscher, who leads the Kirkland team, together with partner Diana Torres. Mr. Holscher is called among Californias Best Gamers lawyers which is a across the nation recognized wager-the-company trial attorney. This Season, he won a $52 million verdict regarding actor Don Manley in the breach of contract and copyright breach situation including delinquent profits against Rysher Entertainment, Qualia Capital LLC and 2929 Entertainment, Corporation.

'Flowers of War' dispute defused

BEIJING -- China's Film Bureau has intervened to resolve a potentially bitter dispute over the distribution revenue split on helmer Zhang Yimou's latest epic, the Christian Bale starrer "The Flowers of War." Pic, which is this year's official foreign language entry for China at the Academy Awards, is due to bow in China on Dec 16. The movie's distribs, Beijing New Pictures Film, Huaxia Film Distribution and China Film Group, had announced that the minimum price for a ticket would be hiked by five yuan (80 cents), and said distribs would get an increased take of 45% of profits, with the cinemas getting 55%. This marked a 2% hike in the take going to the distribs, at a time when cinemagoing has fallen by a similar amount. Fearful that cinemagoers would blame the hardtop operators, eight of the biggest China theater chains, including Beijing Film Distribution and Screening Association, Shanghai United Circuit and Zhejiang Time Cinema, rebelled and threatened to boycott the pic. "The average price for a film ticket in Beijing is 35 yuan ($5.50). According to what was announced by the distributors, the film's minimum price will be 40 yuan ($6.27). That's a record price," said Liu Hongpeng, vice-prexy of the Beijing Film Distribution and Screening Association, and the Shanghai United Circuit and Zhejiang Time Cinema chains. Zhang Yimou's long-time producer and partner Zhang Weiping said the price hike was justified because "Flowers" is 145 minutes long and it cost 600 million yuan ($94 million) to make, the most expensive Chinese film ever. "The cinemas have taken fewer risks than the investors in the film. There is nothing wrong with investors making more money than the cinemas," said Zhang. Biz figures described the stand-off as "like Armageddon." The Film Bureau, which is part of the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television watchdog, stepped in to mediate. There will be no boycott of the movie, and the revised profit-sharing scheme will apply only to the first 500 million yuan ($78 million) the film makes at the box office, Liu said. "If box-office revenue exceeds 500 million yuan, cinemas will be allowed to take a greater percentage of the profits," Liu said. Pic, which deals with the "Rape of Nanking," the massacre that followed the invasion of China's wartime capital on Dec. 13, 1937, will be distributed in North America by Wrekin Hill Entertainment and Row 1 Entertainment. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

Up-to-date: George Michael In Vienna Hospital With Pneumonia

First Released: November 23, 2011 6:16 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption George Michael begins his 25 Live tour in North Park, Next Month, 2008VIENNA, Austria -- George Michaels publicist states the British singer continues to be put in the hospital in Vienna with pneumonia. Connie Filippello stated Wednesday that Michaels approaching tours in Vienna, Strasbourg, France, and Cardiff, Wales, happen to be postponed consequently and will also be rescheduled. Her statement stated the singer continues to be identified with pneumonia and that he is presently undergoing treatment. Austrian condition broadcaster states that's happening at Viennas AKH hospital. A lady who clarified the telephone there declined to comment because of privacy rules. She also didn't offer her title. Michael, 48, canceled his planned Vienna concert on Monday two hrs prior to being because of start. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Pamela Anderson Deserves a 'Break' to Play Virgin Mary, Canadian TV Host Tells Catholics

TORONTO - Canadian funnyman Russell Peters remains defiant about casting Pamela Anderson to play the Virgin Mary in his upcoming Christmas TV special, despite stirring up heavy criticism from the Catholic media.our editor recommendsPamela Anderson to Play Virgin Mary in Christmas TV ShowPamela Anderson And Russell Peters In Xmas Sketch Comedy Routine "I didn't even think of the other side of Pam Anderson which is so long ago, it's like come on, give the chick a break already," Peters told the CTV News Channel Monday, referring to the former Baywatch star's nude photo shoots and homemade porn videos with Tommy Lee. Anderson is to play mother Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms, opposite Peters as Joseph, in the CTV and The Comedy Network's A Russell Peters Christmas Special. Predictably, the Canadian TV show, called "irreverent" by CTV in its publicity, has unleashed a flood of opinion pieces from Catholic publications that criticize Anderson for playing the Virgin Mary. But Peters said the casting conforms to the 1970s-style variety show he plans for Canadian TV. "We had written the sketch and we didn't know who we were putting in it and we thought, hey, Pam Anderson is Canadian, we can use more Canadian people in this show," he said. Related Topics Pamela Anderson International

Herzog, James Among the Snubs on Academy's 2011 Oscar Documentary Short List

Another year, another ruthless paring down of the Oscar-caliber documentary feature crop, with the acclaimed likes of Werner Herzog’s Into the Abyss, Steve James’s The Interrupters, Asif Kapadia’s Senna and others falling by the wayside as the Academy whittled its 125 submissions to 15 shortlist contenders. And honestly, this is a list I can live with. I wasn’t crazy about Abyss and would have been more than a little frustrated to think that might finally be the film for which the Academy recognizes Herzog. Senna and The Interrupters (and, to a lesser degree, the batshit Errol Morris trifle Tabloid) got jobbed, no doubt, but when you realize that the Oscar is Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory’s to lose anyway, the bitterness abates and you just tip your cap and content yourself to watch the rest of the game from the home-video sidelines. That said: Big ups to If a Tree Falls, Bill Cunningham NY” and Pina“:http://www.movieline.com/2011/02/berlinale-dispatch-wim-wenders-takes-his-place-in-the-3-d-vanguard.php (above), a few Movieline favorites the crew here wouldn’t mind seeing advance to the Big Show. Here are your final 15, via AMPAS; check back here Jan. 24 for the final nominees in this and the rest of the Oscar categories. Battle for Brooklyn Bill Cunningham NY Buck Hell and Back Again If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front Jane’s Journey The Loving Story Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory Pina Project Nim Semper Fi: Always Faithful Sing Your Song Undefeated Under Fire: Journalists in Combat We Were Here Follow S.T. VanAirsdale on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

'X Factor': Chris Rene Wears Questionable Rocawear 'Occupy' Shirt

Shirley Halperin As being a Top Ten finalist on X Factor has its own rights. Just request Chris Rene, who handled to obtain his on the job a Rocawear Occupy Wall Street shirt for his performance of Bob Marley's "No Lady No Cry" on Wednesday evening. even though the Jay-Z-possessed company drawn the tees from the website and merchants among bad weather of debate.our editor recommendsJay-Z Selling Occupy Wall Street T-T shirts No Intends to Share Profits With ProtestorsJay-Z's Occupy Wall Street T-T shirts: What THR's Visitors Say PHOTOS: The Scene at Occupy Wall Street At problem: the concept that the road was produced to aid Occupy Wall Street but wouldn't share profits using the 1000's of protesters who've setup camping in parks and near government structures for that better a part of two several weeks. Stated one particular critic: "Jay-Z, as gifted because he is, has got the political sensibility of the hood rat and it is a nut sack. To try to profit from the first important social moment of half a century by having an overpriced bit of cotton is definitely an insult towards the fight for economic civil privileges referred to as #occupywallstreet." PHOTOS: The Scene at Occupy La Rene obtained the shirt with the show's stylist team, brought byJune Ambrose, who informed the finalist it originated from Jay-Z. "I am so honored, I'm able to barely say anything," Rene told the Hollywood Reporter following his performance. For the content? He too feels solidarity with Occupy protesters, but what goes on if he wins the $5 million prize and becomes area of the 1 %? Stated Rene:"I'd be among individuals clowns, however i could be enhancing the 99%. There's always an answer. It's that which you use your hard earned money with your heart. Because actions speak even louder than words, as well as in existence, it's the most crucial factor." Jay-Z The X Factor Chris Rene

Summit ink int'l deals on 2 photos

Summit Entertainment has closed worldwide deals for the majority of the world because of its magician heist pic "You Now See Me" and Steve McQueen's "Twelve Years a Slave." Summit co-chair Patrick Wachsberger told Variety that response was strong for game titles throughout the American Film Market. "There is lots of competition with multiple offers," he added."You Now See Me," directed by Louis Leterrier, stars Mark Ruffalo, Jesse Eisenberg, Morgan Freeman, Isla Fisher and Melanie Laurent inside a tale of the squad from the world's finest illusionists who accomplish a number of daring bank heists throughout their performances, then shower the earnings on the audiences. Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci are creating via their shingle Kurtzman Orci Paper Items."It is a large studio-type high-concept movie open to independent marketers at any given time once the financial crisis has limited individuals type of game titles," Wachsberger noted. "You Now See Me" offered to EOne for that U.K., SND for France, Telemunchen for Germany, Arum for The country, and Nordisk. Summit is weighing multiple offers for Japan with this deal prone to close inside a week."Twelve Years a Slave," with River Road creating and financing, stars Michael Fassbender -- who toplined McQueen's "Shame" -- together with Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kaira Pitt. McQueen will direct from the script he co-authored with John Ridley, in line with the true story of Solomon Northup, a NY citizen kidnapped in Washington in 1841 and saved from the cotton plantation in Louisiana in 1853.Pitt can also be creating through Plan B with partners Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner together with Pohlad. CAA is organizing financing and representing U.S. privileges for that pic skedded to begin production early the coming year.InchServantInch told to EOne within the U.K., Tobis in Germany, Planeta in The country, Mars in France, Svensk in Scandinavia and Icon around australia.Wachsberger also stated Summit brings four films available towards the Berlin market in Feb but he is not revealing the game titles yet. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

'Breaking Dawn' Premiere Preview: Photos of Past 'Twilight' Red-colored-colored Carpets (PHOTOS)

Twi-hards: here is your week! On Thursday evening during the night time, you together with numerous other fans nationwide will crowd movie theaters for your relieve 'Breaking Beginning, Part I.' The best way to pass time between from time to time? With Moviefone's help, clearly! Your friendly editors have a very bevy of features arranged throughout 'Twilight' Week, plus a live-stream of tonight's 'Breaking Dawn' premiere in La, additionally to exclusive video interviews with Billy Burke, Rachelle Lefervre and Rachelle Lefervre, where they'll -- among other activities -- do impressions of each other. So, yeah: awesome. To begin with, though, is trip lower memory lane to look back at past 'Twilight' premieres. Remember how youthful K-Stew, RPattz and Tay-tay looked in 2008? Otherwise, see the photos ahead. RELATED: Make the most of, Kristen and Taylor Cast the eighties version of 'Twilight' RELATED: Behind the curtain of 'Breaking Beginning, Part I' 'Breaking Beginning' Premiere Preview: Photos of Past 'Twilight' Red-colored-colored Carpets 'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere (2010)'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere (2010)'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere (2010)'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere (2010)'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere in Rome (2010)'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse' Premiere (2010)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' Premiere (2009)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' Premiere (2009)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' Premiere (2009)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' After Party (2009)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' Premiere (2009)'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' After Party (2009)'Twilight' Premiere (2008)'Twilight' Premiere (2008)'Twilight' Premiere (2008) See All Moviefone Galleries » [Photo: Getty Images] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

AFI Fest Awards Grand Jury Prize to The Loneliest Planet

AFI Fest closes up shop today (with a very climactic showing of The Adventures of Tintin), but before we say so long to the parking garage at Hollywood & Highland, we have one piece of business left to deal with: the awards. AFI awarded its Grand Jury Prize to Julia Loktev’s The Loneliest Planet “for its bold exploration of societal structures and gender roles, set against a landscape that conveys both profound beauty and profound alienation.” And because Gael Garcia Bernal is adorbz. Click through for the rest of prizes and announcements. AUDIENCE AWARDS Breakthrough Section (award accompanied by a $5,000 cash prize) WITH EVERY HEARTBEAT by Alexandra-Therese Keining New Auteurs Section BULLHEAD by Michal R. Roskam World Cinema Section A tie: JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI by David Gelb and KINYARWANDA by Alrick Brown Young Americans Section WUSS by Clay Liford LIVE ACTION AND ANIMATED SHORT FILM SECTION JURY AWARDS As in previous years, a jury determines the AFI FEST 2011 Live Action and Animated Short Film Section Awards. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences recognizes each winner as a qualifier for the annual Academy Awards. The Short Film Jury — comprised of filmmakers Barry Jenkins and Gerardo Naranjo (AFI Conservatory Class of 2001) and festival programmer Kim Yutani — announced the awards with their statements. Live Action Short Film Section Grand Jury Prize: FROZEN STORIES from Grzegorz Jaroszuk “for its world of meta-reality suffused with enough context to rend a beautifully nuanced story for the most heightened elements.” Honorable Mention: BABYLAND by Marc Fratello “for its assured direction, stunning lead performance and the ability to balance humor and pathos all the way up to its shocking conclusion.” Animated Short Film Section Grand Jury Prize: THE EAGLEMAN STAG by Michael Please “for its ambitious and elegant storytelling, both narrative and aesthetically, in which the bigness of life and the concept of time are deftly unpacked in a moving nine minutes.” Honorable Mention: THE VOYAGERS by Penny Lane “for its skillful juxtaposition of archival footage and personal narrative to tell a moving story of exploration, romance and space travel.” NEW AUTEURS SECTION CRITIC’S PRIZE This year AFI FEST debuts its New Auteurs Critic’s Prize selected by an esteemed panel of international critics: Justin Chang (Variety), Mike Goodridge (Screen International), Mark Olsen (The Los Angeles Times) and Jean Oppenheimer (American Cinematographer). Grand Jury Prize: THE LONELIEST PLANET by Julia Loktev “for its bold exploration of societal structures and gender roles, set against a landscape that conveys both profound beauty and profound alienation.” Special Jury Prize: ATTENBERG by Athina Rachel Tsangari “for its wit, distinct voice and playful sense of storytelling.” Acting Award Prize: BULLHEAD’s Matthias Schoenaerts “for his nuanced and intensely physical embodiment of bruised masculinity.” Read more of Movieline’s coverage of the 2011 AFI Fest here.

Exclusive: Once Upon a Time Casts Lost's Emilie de Ravin As Belle

Emily de Ravin Once Upon a Time has landed another Lost alum. Emilie de Ravin, who played Australian castaway Claire on the ABC island mystery series, has been cast as Belle, as in Beauty and the Beast's Belle, TVGuide.com has learned exclusively. ABC's Once Upon a Time turns fairy tales into reality Details of her role are scarce, but we hear Once's Belle will have a connection to Rumplestiltskin (Robert Carlyle). No word on whether the titular Beast will appear, but Gaston is slated to pop up as well. The 29-year-old Roswell alum has starred in such films as Remember Me, Public Enemies and Brick. She will first appear in Episode 12, slated to air early next year.

Fantastic, MPI in 'Stitches' deal

Fantastic Films and MPI Media Group along with the Irish Film Board have come onboard horror comedy "Stitches," directed by Conor McMahon. Deal was announced Tuesday at the American Film Market. McMahon is the writer-director of "Disturbed," "Dead Meat" and the TV series "Zombie Bashers." Principal photography will begin late this year in Ireland. The cast includes Ross Noble and Tommy Knight of "Doctor Who" and "The Sarah Jane Adventures." The film is being produced with some financing from the Irish Film Board. Story centers on Richard "Stitches" Grindle, a jaded kids' birthday clown. He falls victim to a fatal party mishap at the hands of a group of nasty children. Years later, the group of now teenagers attend a party at which Stitches is the uninvited guest of honor, returning to avenge his untimely death. MPI Media Group's recent productions include "The Innkeepers," "Stake Land," "Hatchet 2" and "The House of the Devil." Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

New Regency, EEAP extend pact

BERLIN -- New Regency has re-upped its exclusive distribution pact with Berlin-based certification group Eastern European Acquisition Pool. The sale provides EEAP with exclusive TV distribution rights to New Regency game game titles in Russia as well as the Commonwealth of Independent States, aside from the Ukraine, for the following three years. EEAP's Moscow-based subsidiary Gala Media will oversee distribution in the region. Furthermore to Andrew Niccol's approaching sci-fi thriller "With Time,Inch starring Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried, and "Alvin as well as the Chipmunks: Nick-Wrecked," the completely new Regency library includes such game game titles as "Dark day and night," "Warmth," "Fight Club," "L.A. Private" and "Disloyal." "The collaboration with New Regency remains extremely effective within the last couple of years which we're thrilled that New Regency wants to continue the partnership in the region,In . mentioned EEAP controlling director Alexander van Duelmen. "After recent discussions with Russian Tv producers round the new license contracts, I am sure that we'll achieve ongoing the impressive sales accomplished so far this past year and 2010." The discussions to improve the partnership were performed by van Duelmen and New Regency senior V . p . Peter Eiff. Contact Erection dysfunction Meza at staff@variety.com

Tesco takes consult with market

Actor Leslie Phillips gabs with music artist Robin Gibb in 'Living the Existence,' part of U.K. supermarket giant Tesco's push into entertainment.LONDON -- Innovative business models in TV are rare, but a fledgling U.K. demonstrate that claims use a twist round the celebrity interview signifies marketing options including VOD and also the area of retail."Living the Existence," which bowed November. 6 on satcaster funnel Sky Arts, pairs stars to speak to each other regarding private lives -- the idea since two stars eating your body body fat with each other will most likely produce a more honest and uninhibited exchange when in comparison to some chatshow interview."They're frank discussions between two equals," states Rosemary oil oil Reed Wells, creative director for Mystery Prods., who produced the series. "Most interview-based Tv shows occur because the celebrity features a book to plug or possibly a movie to market. Piers Morgan is great at making people cry however, if he interviews a hollywood, he is not their equal, which inhibits what his interviewees make sure he understands.InchMuch better recognized for making features, Mystery fully funded the ten hourlong segs -- its first foray into TV -- selling DVD and digital rights to British supermarket giant Tesco, one of the greatest retailers in the world. Within The month of the month of january 2010, Tesco's have to move beyond like a mere store of entertainment introduced to have an alliance with U.S. media firm Amber Entertainment to produce straight-to-DVD movies to promote exclusively within the supermarkets.Taken, Tesco revealed the extent of the digital ambitions by buying a large part stake inside the U.K. VOD website, Blinkbox, with an undisclosed sum -- echoing Walmart's purchase of Vudu.While using DVD market in steep decline, the synergies involving the supermarket's home theatre activities and having a digital platform are apparent, as clients migrate from dvd disks to downloads and streaming.When "Living the Existence" finishes its pay TV work on Sky Arts in the finish from the month of the month of january, Blinkbox clients could have a 2-week window to download the show before a box set, that consists of the ten-part series plus four exclusive episodes, emerges only in British Tesco stores. The sunday paper in the series will probably be available exclusively at Tesco."Normally I believe that no to everything," states Make the most of Salter, Tesco's category director, entertainment and media. "However, if I saw the pilot for 'Living the Life' (an encounter between Brit actor Stephen Fry and ex-Moving Stone Bill Wyman) I used to be struck with what an amazing idea it absolutely was. Frequently a high profile is asked on tv having a journalist. This show creates a really different dynamic (that's) a little voyeuristic, but very revealing."How revealing remains to look, nevertheless the Fry and Wyman discussion, while somewhat narcissistic, provided some entertaining experience of to those two different artists whilst it covered well-trod ground.For casting the very best stars, Reed Wells, who co-produces the show with Caroline p Wolfe in the Felix p Wolfe agency, states Tesco "preferred to make sure the participants were appropriate for the kind of people who shop at Tesco." Others featured inside the series include British broadcaster-author Melvyn Bragg with actress Joanna Lumley Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason and Jeremy Clarkson, host in the BBC's "Top Gear" and artist Peter Black and helmer Ken Russell.Talks they're under approach to adapt the format for your U.S. and Australia, and Mystery is seeking a distributor to promote the finished show worldwide.Another U.K. season remains greenlit, with stars apparently organizing to register. Meanwhile, once the digital and DVD home home windows work, Salter will most likely consider buying and selling in other Tv shows to operate a vehicle Blinkbox and boost Tesco's home theatre biz. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

'J. Edgar': What the Critics Are Saying

Clint Eastwood's upcoming biographical tale, J. Edgar, revolving around the first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover kicked off this year's AFI Fest (and is the subject of The Hollywood Reporter's latest cover story). Late Thursday evening, critics began weighing in on the Oscar hopeful that stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer and Naomi Watts.our editor recommendsLeonardo DiCaprio As 'J. Edgar': What He's Saying About the Role'J. Edgar' Q&A: Clint Eastwood'J. Edgar' Q&A: Leonardo DiCaprioHow Makeup Transformed Leonardo DiCaprio Into 'J. Edgar'Leonardo DiCaprio Starrer 'J. Edgar' to Open Nov. 9 PHOTOS: 'J. Edgar' Premiere Red Carpet Arrivals THR's Todd McCarthy gave the feature a positive review. "This surprising collaboration between director Clint Eastwood and Milk screenwriter Dustin Lance Black tackles its trickiest challenges with plausibility and good sense, while serving up a simmeringly caustic view of its controversial subject's behavior, public and private," he writes. "Big-name talent behind and in front of the camera, led by a committed performance by Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role, assures extensive media attention and public curiosity up to a point." But McCarthy cautions that Warner Bros., the studio behind the film, will face challenges marketing it to the public. The studio, he says, "faces a significant commercial challenge in stirring the interest of younger audiences likely to regard J. Edgar Hoover as an irrelevant artifact of the bad old days or, most reductively, a hypocritical closet case." COVER STORY: The Making of 'J. Edgar' THR's awards blogger Scott Feinberg attended Thursday's premiere and while he said his "gut feeling was that I had just seen a very good film," it was not "a slam-dunk for a best picture nomination or anything else (though I would be pretty surprised if, at the very least, DiCaprio doesn't make it into the best actor field and the film's showy makeup work isn't recognized)." Though he did credit the film's look, calling it "visually beautiful, intellectually stimulating." Screen International's Mike Goodridge gave J. Edgar a good review, as well, giving note to the two-hour film's claim to fame. "Its biggest achievement is to look at recent U.S. history through a personal and distinctively gay lens," he writes in his review. "In fact, Eastwood delivers the most un-self-conscious depiction of a gay relationship in a mainstream studio movie to date, although gay rights activists will hardly be looking to promote J. Edgar Hoover as any sort of role model." But not all critics were buying into the hype. Slant's Glenn Heath Jr. said Eastwood's attempt at telling the story of a historical figure "is as long-winded as it is convoluted" and the actor-director "hasn't just made a bad film, he's also made a downright lazy one." Heath Jr. likened the flashbacks to Citizen Kane that "it's almost shocking Eastwood doesn't throw in a 'News on the March' segment at some point." HitFix's Kris Tapley wasn't 100 percent sold on the film ("The film itself, though, wasn't .. impressive."), but praised DiCaprio's portrayal of Hoover that could potentially carry him to an Oscar victory. "LeonardoDiCaprio is exceptional in the title role, digging into an incredibly complex character, committing from frame one to the embodiment and maintaining that course without losing focus," he writes. "It's at times a broad portrayal of a broad persona, but I thought the actor found ways to dial it down and make the internal machinations of the man count." Of the issues at hand in the film, Tapley says, "The problems mostly stem from a somewhat lazy, arbitrarily structured 'greatest hits' screenplay from Dustin Lance Black. It's clunky and labored, but it's really only part of the problem." Related Topics Clint Eastwood Dustin Lance Black Leonardo DiCaprio Naomi Watts J. Edgar

'The Mentalist' Co-Star Michael Rady Talks Simon Baker's Pointing Style, First Day Jitters and a pair of Approaching Projects

Sonja Flemming/CBS"The Mentalist" A completely new analysis in to a serial killer may be striking somewhat close to home for Patrick Jane round the Mentalist.our editor recommends'House of Lies': 'Melrose Place's' Michael Rady and 'Carnivale's' Nick Stahl Join Showtime ComedyShowtime's 'House of Lies' Full Trailer Debuts (Video) The newest situation every week, featured in Thursday's episode "Blinking Red-colored-colored Light," concentrates on a serial killer who gains prestige on television. It's not just any episode it marks series star Simon Baker's second stint behind the digital camera round the CBS procedural. (Baker, who shows the unconventional investigator, directed his first Mentalist episode within the third season.) But things aren't hunky dory within the California Bureau of Analysis (CBI). PHOTOS: CBS' Year Tv Shows: 'Person of curiosity,' 'A Gifted Guy' plus much more Since the youthful boss in the CBI Luther Wainwright, co-star Michael Rady, who was simply an ordinary round the one-and-done Melrose Place reboot round the CW, told The Hollywood Reporter that "pressure's on" to produce they "look wonderful.In . "He notifies his crew, 'Look, let's not screw this up,' " he mentioned. Rady, which has a little role inside the Clint Eastwood film J. Edgar and appears inside the approaching Showtime comedy House of Lies, spoke to THR about playing a young boss, being directed by Baker and people two anticipated projects. PHOTOS: Fall TV Preview: The Returning Shows The Hollywood Reporter: You're inside the thick of things round the Mentalist. Now when was the following episode? Michael Rady: The next episode personally, shooting-wise, is at another week . 5. I really like coming back there so on, "What went lower? What went lower when i disappeared?Inch THR: Is it possible to discuss where Luther Wainwright reaches, at this time around inside the fourth season? Rady: Now, you'll see Wainwright trying just to walk the street and jostle for position inside the FBI for remedies with this new analysis devoted towards the San Joaquin serial killer, that's been on trips for just about any handful of several days. It's getting national coverage now so Luther sees part of his job as getting CBI to appear great again and putting its ft forward on television too. He thinks inside the CBI and wants those to be right on the internet for [while using other agencies]. He notifies his crew, "Look, let's not screw that certain up." Pressure's on. As being a good parent, "OK, that can be done what to do but we must complete what If only to complete. And hopefully we could get this work." There's some chasing after after around everything. THR: And Wainwright's a young boss. How has his presence affected they? Will there be an unpleasant, uncomfortable tension there? Rady: That's natural in him being the completely new guy, thrust into our world from the well-oiled machine. Additionally, he's these ideas of trust and transparency, completely foreign ideas based on their the past. He's so youthful, they could't help but question, "Is guy legitimate? Is he serious?" He doesn't even look who are old enough to operate a vehicle. Personally, I used to be trying to -- due to natural character of the -- give them respect to be able to get respect back. Hearing them and hearing Patrick's wild ideas and also the crazy antics and permit him to have his say after which it speak. Listening first so on next. I saw that as his response to survival in this Patrick Jane world. THR: Are there any challenges becoming an actor jumping right into a recognised show? Rady: The initial factor we shot really was the scene where I meet everyone the first time to make sure that was rather appropriate. Clearly, I didn't know anybody. I couldn't help like a little nervous since they've had of a 1000 bosses OK, I'm just the next boss. Once I was introduced day one, it absolutely was, "Oh you're the completely new boss. Gotcha. We're not stretching its like to bother learning your title because you're apt to be gone each week.In . [Laughs] They didn't condition that however didn't know how extended I'd be around. The term what is stuffed with gigantic Sitting words and tongue-twisters. All you want have to say is a mouthful. The initial couple days I used to be acquiring just a little overcome due to it after which it I recognized it'll happen every single cast member. They have their moments of, "Wait! What is am I saying? I don't know a few things i'm saying any more.Inch That put me comfortable. I possibly could relax. THR: How's Simon just like a director? Rady: I used to be while using Luther Wainwright approach of listening, watching and learning as they's been transporting this out forever. He's a picture which they know what he wants. I used to be happy where I saw him just do how he wanted it. He's got a discerning eye. He shoots within the stylish, he thinks inside the moment which he's like, "Here, do that. You know what happens, let's do this, enables do that.In . If something isn't working, he throws it. "That's no more working it whatsoever, it's garbage." That's invigorating. Doing television, that might be helpful. You're going to get inside the zone. THR: Is pointing something you're considering coping with? Rady: I don't always know. At this time around, I'm still just intrigued due to it because it seems like this kind of massive job. I'm anticipating that eventually I'll desire to direct just because of watching and watching, trying to pay for my thoughts around everything we as stars don't know a director does. I'm still wrapping my thoughts around everything. THR: You'll be turning up in Showtime's House of Lies, about several management consultants. Could be that the different experience of the Mentalist? Rady: It's another kind of show generally. I am in a position to't liken it to anything, that's something I like relating to this. It creates its own fingerprint, style-wise. It's nothing beats Work or Entourage. It possesses its own look, way with words, humor. The producers right from the start told everyone, "That can be done whatever to do. Everyone was allowed to stretch their wings and explore their creativity in addition to their ideas." I'm playing Kristen Bell's fiance Wes. Don Cheadle might be the Simon Baker in the management consultants team essentially. Kristen Bell's character is leading a double existence which i'm another half of her existence, where she really features a soul and might want to be normal, but nobody understands this. THR: Finally, you're in J. Edgar. Rady: The film is told through J. Edgar dictating his existence story to special agents inside the bureau. There's three or four people. (Rady plays Agent Manley.) J. Edgar encounters a few of individuals agents that are taking his dictations. I obtained to carry out a handful of moments with Leo[nardo DiCaprio]. That was pretty wild. [Laughs] Among people encounters that we won't soon forget. The Mentalist airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. on CBS. Email: Philiana.Ng@thr.com The Mentalist J. Edgar

SiriusXM profits rise, try not to beat street

SiriusXM Radio saw profit jump last quarter on revenue up 6 % to $763 million. The satellite radio giant stated net gain increased to $104 million from $68 million. It added 334,000 internet new customers within the period to complete with 21.3 million customers. Traders might have expected faster overall sub growth and tad greater revenue, delivering Sirius stock reduced pre-market trade. It had been off by a lot more than 7 percent prior to the bell. Sirius's customer acquisition costs were also lower. Its cash position solid with $600 million available in the finish from the quarter. Sirius credited the uptick in gross customers to a rise in U.S. light vehicle sales, new vehicle transmission and coming back activations. SiriusXM installation handles car manufacturers really are a answer to its business. It needs another revenue bump -Up 10 % to $4.4 billion -- for 2012 if this boosts the cost of their core SiriusXM package by $1.50 annually to $12.29. Average monthly churn was steady at 1.9 %. ''This continues to be a thrilling year for SiriusXM, but I am much more excited through the many possibilities waiting for us in 2012,'' Boss Mel Karmazin stated inside a statement. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

In this area: Conan O'Brien's Go back to New You are able to City

Jimmy Fallon and Conan O'Brien To celebrate his one-year anniversary on The best spinner's, Conan O'Brien introduced his late-evening show to NY for his first broadcast in the The Big Apple since he left Late Evening at the begining of 2009. And nearly 3,000 screaming fans were available in the Beacon Theater to provide him a warm welcome. Conan O'Brien looks back on his large year "I haven't heard applause like this given that they introduced I had been departing NY," O'Brien joked towards the top of his monologue. O'Brien then switched his focus on the people from the audience, a lot of whom were outfitted in Halloween outfits. Not remarkably, greater than a couple of fans were outfitted as O'Brien. "I see lots of Conan costumes," he stated. "Hey, a minimum of you are able to take yours off! I am held in this!" O'Brien, who now tapes Conan in La, constantly repeated his passion of NY City, and each of the episode's pre-recorded bits celebrated the town. Within the first, O'Brien spent your day being employed as a delivery boy in a Chinese restaurant with mixed results. His first delivery customer declined to simply accept food from him for anxiety about standing on camera. Later, Conan could not discover the address he was delivering to, so he gave the meals off to people in the pub. (Then he changed the takeout food that he'd distributed with Thai soup, however the clients rapidly forgave their famous delivery boy.) Conan O'Brien to officiate gay wedding on television Another pre-recorded bit saw O'Brien putting on a disguise to be able to visit his old buddies at NBC without which makes it "too awkward." So, using an imitation mustache plus some shades (Conan first pointed out that he appeared as if a "hipster child molester" and then the Unabomber), he combined in to the audience in the Today Show in Rockefeller center. The NY City love ongoing having a fight towards the dying between your Empire Condition Building along with a Scientology book store - also known as "the very best building L.A. could develop." (The Empire Condition Building easily won.) Then NY City Mayor Michael Bloomberg switched as much as administer a NY citizenship test. Sample question: What's Derek Jeter's finest accomplishment? Conan's (correct) answer: Minka Kelly. Take a look at photos of O'Brien O'Brien's first guest each week was Jimmy Fallon, who been successful O'Brien because the host recently Evening. Fallon offered up a "winning" impression of Charlie Sheen, and required a couple of moments to plug his new Ben & Jerry's frozen treats flavor, that the audience tried following the show. (Sadly, this reporter would be a little late towards the sample line, however it sounds scrumptious.) Both Fallon and music performer/comedian Reggie W, who opened up for Conan throughout his countrywide tour this past year, carried out rousing musical amounts. W did an appropriate rendition of "The Boys Are In Town" while Fallon carried out a "Halloween Song" which was a real celebration of America that incorporated an enormous American flag and red-colored-whitened-and-blue-clad baton twirlers. Throughout some commercial breaks, O'Brien embarked out in to the audience to sign autographs, pose for pictures as well as hand out a couple of hugs. Throughout others, he danced round the stage and pretended to box announcer/partner Andy Richter. At some point late within the show, O'Brien removed his jacket to awesome off, simply to uncover some noticeable pit stains. He switched to talk about his embarrassment using the audience, however the Team Coco crowd simply roared with increased applause. Only in NY. Conan airs weeknights at 11/10c on The best spinner's. What have you think about O'Brien's fist show in the The Big Apple?