Exclusive: UTA has signed actor Cory Michael Smith (May December) for representation in all areas, with an eye toward securing him new opportunities across film, television, theater and more.
The signing comes off of Smith’s supporting role in May December, Netflix’s Oscar- and Golden Globe-nominated drama from director Todd Haynes, which was one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2023. In the film scripted by Samy Burch, he played Georgie, a son from the former relationship of Gracie (Julianne Moore), who has become the subject of a scandal after entering into a relationship with, and ultimately marrying a man she first met as a pet store worker at just 13 years old.
Currently, Smith is in production on Jason Reitman’s SNL 1975, chronicling the events leading up to Saturday Night Live‘s debut, which has him playing actor and comedian Chevy Chase.
Previously, he’s starred on Gillian Flynn...
The signing comes off of Smith’s supporting role in May December, Netflix’s Oscar- and Golden Globe-nominated drama from director Todd Haynes, which was one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2023. In the film scripted by Samy Burch, he played Georgie, a son from the former relationship of Gracie (Julianne Moore), who has become the subject of a scandal after entering into a relationship with, and ultimately marrying a man she first met as a pet store worker at just 13 years old.
Currently, Smith is in production on Jason Reitman’s SNL 1975, chronicling the events leading up to Saturday Night Live‘s debut, which has him playing actor and comedian Chevy Chase.
Previously, he’s starred on Gillian Flynn...
- 3/20/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Tim Robinson (I Think You Should Leave), Paul Rudd (Only Murders in the Building) and Kate Mara (Class of ’09) have been set to star in Friendship, a new comedy from Fifth Season and BoulderLight Pictures.
Pic centers on Craig Waterman (Robinson), who enjoys his life. He likes New Balance shoes, Subway sandwiches, and Marvel movies. He lives in the suburbs with his wife, Tami, and son, Steven. He’s happy to work at Universal Digital, a company that helps brands make their products more habit-forming. Craig sees no reason to change anything or make new friends… until weatherman Brian moves into the neighborhood. Mysterious yet friendly, macho but vulnerable, Brian (Rudd) transforms everything for Craig, but Craig’s obsessive and childlike nature threatens to ruin the friendship, and possibly everything else in his life.
Friendship is the first feature from director Andrew DeYoung, who also penned the script and is exec producing alongside Tracy Rosenblum.
Pic centers on Craig Waterman (Robinson), who enjoys his life. He likes New Balance shoes, Subway sandwiches, and Marvel movies. He lives in the suburbs with his wife, Tami, and son, Steven. He’s happy to work at Universal Digital, a company that helps brands make their products more habit-forming. Craig sees no reason to change anything or make new friends… until weatherman Brian moves into the neighborhood. Mysterious yet friendly, macho but vulnerable, Brian (Rudd) transforms everything for Craig, but Craig’s obsessive and childlike nature threatens to ruin the friendship, and possibly everything else in his life.
Friendship is the first feature from director Andrew DeYoung, who also penned the script and is exec producing alongside Tracy Rosenblum.
- 2/2/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Iconoclastic filmmaker Todd Haynes has made a name for himself crafting stories dealing with sexuality, discrimination and pop culture. Let’s take a look back at all nine of his narrative feature films, ranked worst to best.
Haynes first came to the attention of art house audiences with “Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story” (1988), a 43-minute short which used Barbie dolls to create a startling poignant, eerie biopic. This led to his feature debut, “Poison” (1991), a milestone in the New Queer Cinema that told three different narratives exploring our reactions to human carnality.
He reaped his first Oscar nomination for “Far From Heaven” (Best Original Screenplay in 2002), a meticulous recreation of Douglas Sirk melodramas centering on a 1950’s Connecticut housewife (Julianne Moore) who falls in love with her black gardener (Dennis Haysbert) after her husband (Dennis Quaid) comes out of the closet. In addition to Haynes’ bid, the film also competed...
Haynes first came to the attention of art house audiences with “Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story” (1988), a 43-minute short which used Barbie dolls to create a startling poignant, eerie biopic. This led to his feature debut, “Poison” (1991), a milestone in the New Queer Cinema that told three different narratives exploring our reactions to human carnality.
He reaped his first Oscar nomination for “Far From Heaven” (Best Original Screenplay in 2002), a meticulous recreation of Douglas Sirk melodramas centering on a 1950’s Connecticut housewife (Julianne Moore) who falls in love with her black gardener (Dennis Haysbert) after her husband (Dennis Quaid) comes out of the closet. In addition to Haynes’ bid, the film also competed...
- 1/3/2024
- by Zach Laws and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
U.S. actor Robin Wright will be awarded the President’s Award at the 57th Karlovy Vary Film Festival’s closing ceremony. In honor of Wright, it will screen “The Princess Bride.”
Wright is best known for her performance in Netflix series “House of Cards.” She earned three Golden Globe nominations and a win in 2014. She earned five Screen Actors Guild award nominations for the show, and received five consecutive Emmy nominations.
In 2017, Wright played Lieutenant Joshi in “Blade Runner 2049,” and Amazon warrior General Antiope in “Justice League” and Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman.” The following year, she reprised her role as Antiope in “Wonder Woman 1984.” She will be seen this Fall starring opposite Millie Bobby Brown in the fantasy film “Damsel,” and co-starring with Tom Hanks in “Here,” directed by Robert Zemeckis.
Her first two nominations, a Golden Globe and a SAG, came as early as 1995 for her...
Wright is best known for her performance in Netflix series “House of Cards.” She earned three Golden Globe nominations and a win in 2014. She earned five Screen Actors Guild award nominations for the show, and received five consecutive Emmy nominations.
In 2017, Wright played Lieutenant Joshi in “Blade Runner 2049,” and Amazon warrior General Antiope in “Justice League” and Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman.” The following year, she reprised her role as Antiope in “Wonder Woman 1984.” She will be seen this Fall starring opposite Millie Bobby Brown in the fantasy film “Damsel,” and co-starring with Tom Hanks in “Here,” directed by Robert Zemeckis.
Her first two nominations, a Golden Globe and a SAG, came as early as 1995 for her...
- 6/20/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Roadside Attractions has acquired North American rights to The Last Rider, the story of cycling legend Greg LeMond, who came back from a near death experience to win his sport’s greatest race.
LeMond remains the only American man to win the Tour de France, a feat he accomplished three times – in 1986, 1989 and 1990 (Tour victories by Americans Lance Armstrong and Floyd Landis were vacated after they admitted using banned performance-enhancing drugs). Remarkably, LeMond’s second and third Tour de France wins came after he was nearly killed in a hunting accident, in which his brother-in-law accidentally blasted him with a shotgun, hitting LeMond with 60 pellets. He lost 65 percent of his blood, but somehow survived.
The documentary directed by Alex Holmes will be released in theaters on June 23.
Greg LeMond races in the Tour du Pont in Washington, DC May 14, 1992.
“Deeply personal and raw,...
LeMond remains the only American man to win the Tour de France, a feat he accomplished three times – in 1986, 1989 and 1990 (Tour victories by Americans Lance Armstrong and Floyd Landis were vacated after they admitted using banned performance-enhancing drugs). Remarkably, LeMond’s second and third Tour de France wins came after he was nearly killed in a hunting accident, in which his brother-in-law accidentally blasted him with a shotgun, hitting LeMond with 60 pellets. He lost 65 percent of his blood, but somehow survived.
The documentary directed by Alex Holmes will be released in theaters on June 23.
Greg LeMond races in the Tour du Pont in Washington, DC May 14, 1992.
“Deeply personal and raw,...
- 4/19/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
While Cate Blanchett happily accepts the icon status that has been bestowed upon her by fans in the LGBTQ+ community, there are certain comparisons between her queer characters in “TÁR” and “Carol” that bug her.
In a career-spanning conversation at the 38th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which ended with “TÁR” filmmaker Todd Field presenting the 2023 Outstanding Performer of the Year Award, the current Best Actress nominee and two-time Oscar winner said, “I was doing an interview the other day about ‘TÁR,’ and the interviewer, male, said, ‘You seem to be forging a line in predatory lesbians.’ Excuse me?” After getting the clarification that the reporter really was comparing disgraced maestro Lydia Tár to her titular role in “Carol” as a 1950s housewife that begins an affair with a younger woman, Blanchett questioned if the reporter had even seen the 2015 film directed by Todd Haynes.
The actress had said...
In a career-spanning conversation at the 38th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which ended with “TÁR” filmmaker Todd Field presenting the 2023 Outstanding Performer of the Year Award, the current Best Actress nominee and two-time Oscar winner said, “I was doing an interview the other day about ‘TÁR,’ and the interviewer, male, said, ‘You seem to be forging a line in predatory lesbians.’ Excuse me?” After getting the clarification that the reporter really was comparing disgraced maestro Lydia Tár to her titular role in “Carol” as a 1950s housewife that begins an affair with a younger woman, Blanchett questioned if the reporter had even seen the 2015 film directed by Todd Haynes.
The actress had said...
- 2/11/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Each week we highlight the noteworthy titles that have recently hit streaming platforms in the United States. Check out this week’s selections below and past round-ups here.
This week’s New to Streaming column is sponsored by Matthew Heineman’s Retrograde, now streaming on Disney+, courtesy of National Geographic Documentary Films.
Retrograde (Matthew Heineman)
There’s a common view that one needs distance and perspective to truly process and reconcile current events before making a worthwhile film on any particular subject, be it narrative or nonfiction. Throughout his intrepid career, Matthew Heineman has refuted this notion, immersing himself in the Syrian conflict, on the front lines of the Mexican drug war, and NYC’s early days of Covid-19. In each instance he has delivered full-bodied, cinematic portraits of considerable immediacy, humanity, and discernment of the events unfolding around him. His work not only provides vital dispatches of ongoing conflict,...
This week’s New to Streaming column is sponsored by Matthew Heineman’s Retrograde, now streaming on Disney+, courtesy of National Geographic Documentary Films.
Retrograde (Matthew Heineman)
There’s a common view that one needs distance and perspective to truly process and reconcile current events before making a worthwhile film on any particular subject, be it narrative or nonfiction. Throughout his intrepid career, Matthew Heineman has refuted this notion, immersing himself in the Syrian conflict, on the front lines of the Mexican drug war, and NYC’s early days of Covid-19. In each instance he has delivered full-bodied, cinematic portraits of considerable immediacy, humanity, and discernment of the events unfolding around him. His work not only provides vital dispatches of ongoing conflict,...
- 12/9/2022
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Call Jane is a 2022 drama movie directed by Phyllis Nagy starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver.
A movie that tells of a real life case, which rattled society in a specific era, and mobilized a community and shifted public opinion.
Premise
Chicago, 1968. Joy, a housewife, leads a normal and sheltered life alongside her husband and daughter, while the city and the nation is on the brink of political and social upheaval. Joy’s life take a turn when she contends with an unintended pregnancy that puts her life at risk, and nobody is willing to help her in a time when abortion is not legal. This leads her on a journey seeking a solution to her situation, and venturing on participating in organizing a clandestine group of women, led by Virginia.
Movie Review
A very well directed movie, in which the director seems to not seek to outshine the story being told.
A movie that tells of a real life case, which rattled society in a specific era, and mobilized a community and shifted public opinion.
Premise
Chicago, 1968. Joy, a housewife, leads a normal and sheltered life alongside her husband and daughter, while the city and the nation is on the brink of political and social upheaval. Joy’s life take a turn when she contends with an unintended pregnancy that puts her life at risk, and nobody is willing to help her in a time when abortion is not legal. This leads her on a journey seeking a solution to her situation, and venturing on participating in organizing a clandestine group of women, led by Virginia.
Movie Review
A very well directed movie, in which the director seems to not seek to outshine the story being told.
- 11/17/2022
- by Veronica Loop
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Here’s the latest episode of the The Filmmakers Podcast, part of the ever-growing podcast roster here on Nerdly. If you haven’t heard the show yet, you can check out previous episodes on the official podcast site, whilst we’ll be featuring each and every new episode as it premieres.
For those unfamiliar with the series, The Filmmakers Podcast is a podcast about how to make films from micro budget indie films to bigger budget studio films and everything in-between. Our hosts Giles Alderson, Dan Richardson, Andrew Rodger and Cristian James talk how to get films made, how to actually make them and how to try not to f… it up in their very humble opinion. Guests will come on and chat about their film making experiences from directors, writers, producers, screenwriters, actors, cinematographers and distributors.
The Filmmaker’s Podcast #305: Directing big stars, Sigourney Weaver, Elizabeth Banks, with...
For those unfamiliar with the series, The Filmmakers Podcast is a podcast about how to make films from micro budget indie films to bigger budget studio films and everything in-between. Our hosts Giles Alderson, Dan Richardson, Andrew Rodger and Cristian James talk how to get films made, how to actually make them and how to try not to f… it up in their very humble opinion. Guests will come on and chat about their film making experiences from directors, writers, producers, screenwriters, actors, cinematographers and distributors.
The Filmmaker’s Podcast #305: Directing big stars, Sigourney Weaver, Elizabeth Banks, with...
- 11/15/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
25 new titles on release this week including ‘Call Jane’, ‘Watcher’.
Oliver Hermanus’ Akira Kurosawa adaptation Living heads a bumper weekend for new releases in UK-Ireland cinemas, with 25 new titles playing across the seven-day period from October 31-November 6.
Released by Lionsgate in 257 cinemas, Living is an English-language adaptation of Kurosawa’s 1952 filmIkiru, with the story moved to the UK in the 1950s. It follows a veteran civil servant – played by Bill Nighy – who receives a medical diagnosis that inspires him to put some fun into his remaining days.
Nighy received one of nine nominations for the film at the British Independent Film Awards (Bifa) this morning,...
Oliver Hermanus’ Akira Kurosawa adaptation Living heads a bumper weekend for new releases in UK-Ireland cinemas, with 25 new titles playing across the seven-day period from October 31-November 6.
Released by Lionsgate in 257 cinemas, Living is an English-language adaptation of Kurosawa’s 1952 filmIkiru, with the story moved to the UK in the 1950s. It follows a veteran civil servant – played by Bill Nighy – who receives a medical diagnosis that inspires him to put some fun into his remaining days.
Nighy received one of nine nominations for the film at the British Independent Film Awards (Bifa) this morning,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Founded by Heather Booth, The Jane Collective was an underground abortion service that operated in Chicago, Illinois from 1969 to 1973. At the time, termination of a pregnancy for any reason was still illegal in most of the US. As the story of The Janes has become depressingly relevant today, adaptations of the organization’s history have emerged with surprising frequency. The latest of which is Call Jane which takes the Suffragette approach of constructing fictionalized characters as our entry point into a real-life struggle.
Our primary entry point is Joy (Elizabeth Banks), the smart, considerate and obedient housewife to her conservative lawyer husband (Chris Messina). When Joy is told that her otherwise wanted pregnancy is likely to kill her she is given firsthand experience of how little the US healthcare system cares for her life. With nowhere else to turn she discovers The Janes who are able to provide Joy a clean,...
Our primary entry point is Joy (Elizabeth Banks), the smart, considerate and obedient housewife to her conservative lawyer husband (Chris Messina). When Joy is told that her otherwise wanted pregnancy is likely to kill her she is given firsthand experience of how little the US healthcare system cares for her life. With nowhere else to turn she discovers The Janes who are able to provide Joy a clean,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Liam Macleod
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
As Hilary Clinton recently tweeted, Call Jane is a remarkably timely production, and strikingly so – released in the same year as Roe v Wade has been overturned. But when we had the pleasure of sitting down and speaking to director Phyllis Nagy alongside her leading lady Elizabeth Banks, the theme of the chat was very much that the story being presented in this film has been timely for quite some time.
We also talk about the touring of the film, which has been screened in a fair few places across the year, while Banks talks about the roles she takes on, and her ability to balance entertainment with her political stance. Finally Nagy also comments on directing a film from somebody else’s screenplay, and how that differs to when she writers for fellow directors.
Watch the full interview with Elizabeth Banks and Phyllis Nagy here:
Synopsis
Set in the...
We also talk about the touring of the film, which has been screened in a fair few places across the year, while Banks talks about the roles she takes on, and her ability to balance entertainment with her political stance. Finally Nagy also comments on directing a film from somebody else’s screenplay, and how that differs to when she writers for fellow directors.
Watch the full interview with Elizabeth Banks and Phyllis Nagy here:
Synopsis
Set in the...
- 11/1/2022
- by Stefan Pape
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Set in 1968 Chicago, five years before the Supreme Court’s revolutionary Roe v. Wade decision, doctors refuse to terminate a potentially life-threatening pregnancy for a suburban housewife named Joy (Elizabeth Banks). In an effort to save her own life, Joy’s journey for a solution leads her to Virginia (Sigourney Weaver), an independent visionary fiercely committed to women’s health, and Gwen (Wunmi Mosaku), an activist who dreams of a day when all women will have access to abortion, regardless of their ability to pay. Joy is so inspired by their work, she decides to join forces with them in “Call Jane.”
The film is distributed by Roadside Attractions and was released in theaters on October 28, 2022. Watch the trailer below.
See 2023 Oscars: Best Actress Predictions
Banks, who is primarily known for her sharp wit in light-hearted fare, takes a serious turn as Joy. The actress has earned three Emmy nominations...
The film is distributed by Roadside Attractions and was released in theaters on October 28, 2022. Watch the trailer below.
See 2023 Oscars: Best Actress Predictions
Banks, who is primarily known for her sharp wit in light-hearted fare, takes a serious turn as Joy. The actress has earned three Emmy nominations...
- 10/28/2022
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Three films opening this weekend highlight women’s rights, class and racism — nothing ripped from today’s headlines exactly, but features with a distinctive moment and point of view that appear particularly relevant today. Call Jane, Holy Spider and Armageddon Time join Tár, Till, The Banshees of Inisherin and others already in theaters as it gets crowded out there in specialty.
The widest release, Roadside Attractions’ Call Jane opens on 1,070 screens. It stars Elizabeth Banks as Joy, a traditional suburban housewife who falls in with a group of activists after a medical board denies her a “therapeutic termination” despite a life-threatening medical condition. The real underground Jane collective led in the film by Virginia (Sigourney Weaver) arranged illegal abortions in 1960s and ’70s Chicago. The film by Phyllis Nagy premiered at Sundance. Deadline’s review said “ it strikes an upbeat, non-judgmental note while exploring the gender and body politics of the time.
The widest release, Roadside Attractions’ Call Jane opens on 1,070 screens. It stars Elizabeth Banks as Joy, a traditional suburban housewife who falls in with a group of activists after a medical board denies her a “therapeutic termination” despite a life-threatening medical condition. The real underground Jane collective led in the film by Virginia (Sigourney Weaver) arranged illegal abortions in 1960s and ’70s Chicago. The film by Phyllis Nagy premiered at Sundance. Deadline’s review said “ it strikes an upbeat, non-judgmental note while exploring the gender and body politics of the time.
- 10/28/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
It Could Happen To You: Nagy Recuperates the Resiliency of Women in Sophisticated Melodrama
Camille Paglia, with her signature dramatic panache, might be among those who phrased it best concerning not just the right but the necessity of women’s reproductive rights, “it is our right and even obligation as rational human beings to defy nature’s fascism.” Arriving in the midst of a myriad of abortion rights regressions in the US, making it feel more startlingly relevant than ever, is Call Jane, the directorial debut of Academy Award nominated scribe Phyllis Nagy, which takes a steely magnifying glass to the clandestine group of feminists known as The Jane Collective (or The Janes), an underground group of Chicago women who assisted in abortion escorting.…...
Camille Paglia, with her signature dramatic panache, might be among those who phrased it best concerning not just the right but the necessity of women’s reproductive rights, “it is our right and even obligation as rational human beings to defy nature’s fascism.” Arriving in the midst of a myriad of abortion rights regressions in the US, making it feel more startlingly relevant than ever, is Call Jane, the directorial debut of Academy Award nominated scribe Phyllis Nagy, which takes a steely magnifying glass to the clandestine group of feminists known as The Jane Collective (or The Janes), an underground group of Chicago women who assisted in abortion escorting.…...
- 10/28/2022
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Click here to read the full article.
Roadside Attractions’ Call Jane is teaming with local and national abortion care providers on screenings of the film, as well as other supporting organizations on star-fronted PSAs, to help encourage education and awareness around abortions.
Out in theaters Friday, the Elizabeth Banks-led, ’60s-set story follows Joy, a suburban wife and mother who turns to the real-life, Chicago-based underground abortion care network The Janes, who supported access to abortion care during the women’s liberation movement and before Roe v. Wade.
The film and its partners, including the Planned Parenthood Federation of America — which also served in a collaborative role on the film to ensure it reflects the realities of barriers to abortion access — and Abortion Care Network’s KeepOurClinics.org campaign, will screen the Phyllis Nagy-directed film with dozens of American clinics.
“Call Jane is a meditation on choice — personal, political,...
Roadside Attractions’ Call Jane is teaming with local and national abortion care providers on screenings of the film, as well as other supporting organizations on star-fronted PSAs, to help encourage education and awareness around abortions.
Out in theaters Friday, the Elizabeth Banks-led, ’60s-set story follows Joy, a suburban wife and mother who turns to the real-life, Chicago-based underground abortion care network The Janes, who supported access to abortion care during the women’s liberation movement and before Roe v. Wade.
The film and its partners, including the Planned Parenthood Federation of America — which also served in a collaborative role on the film to ensure it reflects the realities of barriers to abortion access — and Abortion Care Network’s KeepOurClinics.org campaign, will screen the Phyllis Nagy-directed film with dozens of American clinics.
“Call Jane is a meditation on choice — personal, political,...
- 10/28/2022
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This review was originally posted for the film’s world premiere at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival.
Wishes aren’t decisions, decisions aren’t actions, and actions aren’t a given, especially where rights are concerned. Women intrinsically know this struggle — not just for choice itself, but for what choosing entails — and Oscar-nominated “Carol” screenwriter Phyllis Nagy incisively, humanely explores that in her gripping, personable drama “Call Jane,” the story of a suburban Chicago housewife (Elizabeth Banks) encountering an underground network of women facilitating safe abortions in the years before Roe v. Wade.
The Janes were real, an activist collective operating illegally but diligently to help pregnant women from all walks of life through a very particular hardship, and their incredible story is the subject of a documentary (“The Janes”) that’s also premiering at this year’s Sundance. But what makes Nagy’s dramatization the perfect complement to testimony-driven non-fiction...
Wishes aren’t decisions, decisions aren’t actions, and actions aren’t a given, especially where rights are concerned. Women intrinsically know this struggle — not just for choice itself, but for what choosing entails — and Oscar-nominated “Carol” screenwriter Phyllis Nagy incisively, humanely explores that in her gripping, personable drama “Call Jane,” the story of a suburban Chicago housewife (Elizabeth Banks) encountering an underground network of women facilitating safe abortions in the years before Roe v. Wade.
The Janes were real, an activist collective operating illegally but diligently to help pregnant women from all walks of life through a very particular hardship, and their incredible story is the subject of a documentary (“The Janes”) that’s also premiering at this year’s Sundance. But what makes Nagy’s dramatization the perfect complement to testimony-driven non-fiction...
- 10/27/2022
- by Robert Abele
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Elizabeth Banks says she thinks she could perform an abortion after working on her latest project Call Jane.
The Phyllis Nagy-directed, Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi co-written film about the Janes, an underground abortion care network that operated out of Chicago during the late ’60s and early ’70s, sees Banks starring as a suburban housewife who seeks out abortion care after learning her second pregnancy could threaten her life.
While speaking to Vanity Fair about the movie, which releases in theaters Oct. 28, the actress, director and producer opened up about what she learned while filming. That includes how she learned, like her character, to perform an abortion. It is something she now says she thinks she “might be able to, actually,” though there are a few catches.
“I’d like to have a little more practice because I didn’t actually ever...
Elizabeth Banks says she thinks she could perform an abortion after working on her latest project Call Jane.
The Phyllis Nagy-directed, Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi co-written film about the Janes, an underground abortion care network that operated out of Chicago during the late ’60s and early ’70s, sees Banks starring as a suburban housewife who seeks out abortion care after learning her second pregnancy could threaten her life.
While speaking to Vanity Fair about the movie, which releases in theaters Oct. 28, the actress, director and producer opened up about what she learned while filming. That includes how she learned, like her character, to perform an abortion. It is something she now says she thinks she “might be able to, actually,” though there are a few catches.
“I’d like to have a little more practice because I didn’t actually ever...
- 10/27/2022
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Last week’s L.A. premiere of “Call Jane” doubled as a benefit for the local chapter of Planned Parenthood, and with the recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade on many attendees’ minds, speakers such as Gloria Allred, Sigourney Weaver and Elizabeth Banks urged those in the audience to vote for pro-choice candidates in the upcoming election. But for producer Robbie Brenner, Roadside Attractions’ Oct. 28 release of “Call Jane” also marks the end of a seven-year journey to get the indie film into theaters.
Now executive VP of Mattel’s film division, Brenner boarded the project — which traces a Chicago housewife’s political awakening following a back-alley abortion in 1968 — when “Call Jane” producer Kevin McKeon handed her the 2017 Black List script by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi. Together with a village of collaborators, she helped shepherd the production through various twists and turns: Phyllis Nagy, Oscar-nominated writer of “Carol,...
Now executive VP of Mattel’s film division, Brenner boarded the project — which traces a Chicago housewife’s political awakening following a back-alley abortion in 1968 — when “Call Jane” producer Kevin McKeon handed her the 2017 Black List script by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi. Together with a village of collaborators, she helped shepherd the production through various twists and turns: Phyllis Nagy, Oscar-nominated writer of “Carol,...
- 10/27/2022
- by Diane Garrett
- Variety Film + TV
The American director and screenwriter on her new film about abortion activists in the 60s, Roe v Wade being overturned, and her ideal next Bond
Phyllis Nagy is a director, screenwriter and playwright. Born in New York in 1962, she began her career at the Royal Court in London, where she was writer in residence in the 1990s, with plays such as Butterfly Kiss. She moved back to Los Angeles a decade ago. In 2006, she was nominated for an Emmy for writing and directing Mrs Harris, her screen debut. In 2016 she was nominated for an Oscar for her screenplay for Carol, based on a novel by Patricia Highsmith, who she knew. Now she is directing Call Jane, her feature debut starring Elizabeth Banks, based on the true story of the “Janes”, a group of suburban women who organised a network to provide safe, affordable abortions in the States in the late 1960s,...
Phyllis Nagy is a director, screenwriter and playwright. Born in New York in 1962, she began her career at the Royal Court in London, where she was writer in residence in the 1990s, with plays such as Butterfly Kiss. She moved back to Los Angeles a decade ago. In 2006, she was nominated for an Emmy for writing and directing Mrs Harris, her screen debut. In 2016 she was nominated for an Oscar for her screenplay for Carol, based on a novel by Patricia Highsmith, who she knew. Now she is directing Call Jane, her feature debut starring Elizabeth Banks, based on the true story of the “Janes”, a group of suburban women who organised a network to provide safe, affordable abortions in the States in the late 1960s,...
- 10/23/2022
- by Sarah Crompton
- The Guardian - Film News
Call Jane Roadside Attractions Reviewed for Shockya.com & BigAppleReviews.net, linked from Rotten Tomatoes by Harvey Karten Director: Phyllis Nagy Screenwriter: Hayley Schore, Roshan Sethi Cast: Elizabeth Banks, Sigourney Weaver, Chkris Messina, Wunmi Mosaku, Kate Mara Screened at: Critics’ link, NYC, Opens: October 28, 2022 The years 1968-69 were among the most exciting in the latter […]
The post Call Jane Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post Call Jane Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 10/23/2022
- by Harvey Karten
- ShockYa
The Swiss festival runs November 4-13.
The Geneva International Film Festival has unveiled the line-up for its 28th edition, as well as an honorary award for Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn.
The Swiss festival’s international competition includes Alice Diop’s Saint Omer which previously picked up the Silver Lion jury prize at Venice and is France’s Oscar submission for best international feature.
Also competing for the Reflet d’Or award for best film, worth CHF10,000 , is Japanese animation Inu-oh from Masaaki Yuasa. The Japan-China co-production premiered in Venice’s Horizons strand before screening as a special presentation at Toronto.
The Geneva International Film Festival has unveiled the line-up for its 28th edition, as well as an honorary award for Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn.
The Swiss festival’s international competition includes Alice Diop’s Saint Omer which previously picked up the Silver Lion jury prize at Venice and is France’s Oscar submission for best international feature.
Also competing for the Reflet d’Or award for best film, worth CHF10,000 , is Japanese animation Inu-oh from Masaaki Yuasa. The Japan-China co-production premiered in Venice’s Horizons strand before screening as a special presentation at Toronto.
- 10/13/2022
- by Ellie Calnan
- ScreenDaily
Roadside Attractions has taken domestic rights for To The End, the follow-up film from Rachel Lears (Knock Down The House), and set a Dec. 9 theatrical-only release date.
The deal was announced by Co-Presidents Howard Cohen and Eric d’Arbeloff. The film, which premiered at Sundance, covers three years of both hope and crisis leading to the recent, historic passage of landmark climate legislation — The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
It focuses on four exceptional women, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, on the front lines of climate policy and advocacy with up-to-the-minute material.
“We are thrilled to be releasing To The End, said Roadside VP of Acquisitions Angel An. “These are the people, four young women from diverse backgrounds, often left out of the political deal-making narrative. Yet this film makes clear how these committed activists have worked to shift the narrative on climate that led to the [Act’s] passage.”
“We always wanted this immersive...
The deal was announced by Co-Presidents Howard Cohen and Eric d’Arbeloff. The film, which premiered at Sundance, covers three years of both hope and crisis leading to the recent, historic passage of landmark climate legislation — The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
It focuses on four exceptional women, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, on the front lines of climate policy and advocacy with up-to-the-minute material.
“We are thrilled to be releasing To The End, said Roadside VP of Acquisitions Angel An. “These are the people, four young women from diverse backgrounds, often left out of the political deal-making narrative. Yet this film makes clear how these committed activists have worked to shift the narrative on climate that led to the [Act’s] passage.”
“We always wanted this immersive...
- 9/23/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
The Santa Fe International Film Festival (SFiFF) has announced its first 15 feature titles. These films are part of the Special Presentation section and will be followed by a full schedule of competition films, short films, panels and events. SFiFF starts October 19 and will run through October 23.
Broker directed by Hirokazu Koreeda
One rainy night, a baby is left at the baby box facility. Sang-hyun and Dong-soo secretly take it home to find suitable parents to adopt him. However, the next day, So-young unexpectedly returns, and calls the police when she discovers her baby is missing. Meanwhile, police detectives have been investigating the case for the past 6 months, waiting for the decisive moment when they can catch the duo in the act.
Holy Spider directed by Ali Abbasi
A journalist descends into the dark underbelly of the Iranian holy city of Mashhad as she investigates the serial killings of sex workers...
Broker directed by Hirokazu Koreeda
One rainy night, a baby is left at the baby box facility. Sang-hyun and Dong-soo secretly take it home to find suitable parents to adopt him. However, the next day, So-young unexpectedly returns, and calls the police when she discovers her baby is missing. Meanwhile, police detectives have been investigating the case for the past 6 months, waiting for the decisive moment when they can catch the duo in the act.
Holy Spider directed by Ali Abbasi
A journalist descends into the dark underbelly of the Iranian holy city of Mashhad as she investigates the serial killings of sex workers...
- 9/18/2022
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated: Sarah Polley’s Women Talking has been selected as the Centerpiece screening at the Hamptons Film Festival, which unspools its 30th edition October 7-16.
Based on Miriam Toews’ 2018 novel, Women Talking had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival and will hit theaters December 2 via Orion and MGM. Read Deadline’s review here.
The festival also said it will close with Chris Smith’s Sr, a look at the life and career of Robert Downey Sr., and that its annual “Rowdy Talks” program will be highlighted by Chris Columbus. It also revealed additional Spotlight selections and its Views From Long Island; Conflict and Resolution; Air, Land & Sea; and Compassion, Justice & Animal Rights lineups.
Previously, August 12: The Hamptons Film Festival will screen Cannes Jury Prize Winner Eo by Jerzy Skolimowski, Phyllis Nagy’s Call Jane, and Decision to Leave by Cannes Best Director winner Park Chan-wook among others...
Based on Miriam Toews’ 2018 novel, Women Talking had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival and will hit theaters December 2 via Orion and MGM. Read Deadline’s review here.
The festival also said it will close with Chris Smith’s Sr, a look at the life and career of Robert Downey Sr., and that its annual “Rowdy Talks” program will be highlighted by Chris Columbus. It also revealed additional Spotlight selections and its Views From Long Island; Conflict and Resolution; Air, Land & Sea; and Compassion, Justice & Animal Rights lineups.
Previously, August 12: The Hamptons Film Festival will screen Cannes Jury Prize Winner Eo by Jerzy Skolimowski, Phyllis Nagy’s Call Jane, and Decision to Leave by Cannes Best Director winner Park Chan-wook among others...
- 9/16/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Canadian distributor Sphere Film has signed a multi-picture deal with A24 under which it will handle the release of nine of its titles in Canada.
Titles included in the deal include Cannes 2022 Critics’ Week breakout Aftersun, which also screens at TIFF, and Ari Aster’s Disappointment Blvd, starring Joaquin Phoenix.
The deal comes on the heels of Sphere Films’ recent acquisition of MK2|Mile End, cementing the company’s position as one of the biggest distributors on the Canadian market.
“Sphere Films and A24 share a deep appreciation of innovative storytelling and original filmmaking, which makes this partnership an especially exciting one,” said Charles Tremblay, President of Sphere Films.
“We are delighted to be in business with A24 and look forward to bringing these wonderful films to audiences across Canada.”
Further titles included in the deal comprise Daina O. Pusic’s directorial debut Tuesday, Owen Kline’s Funny Pages; Kelly Reichardt’s Showing Up,...
Titles included in the deal include Cannes 2022 Critics’ Week breakout Aftersun, which also screens at TIFF, and Ari Aster’s Disappointment Blvd, starring Joaquin Phoenix.
The deal comes on the heels of Sphere Films’ recent acquisition of MK2|Mile End, cementing the company’s position as one of the biggest distributors on the Canadian market.
“Sphere Films and A24 share a deep appreciation of innovative storytelling and original filmmaking, which makes this partnership an especially exciting one,” said Charles Tremblay, President of Sphere Films.
“We are delighted to be in business with A24 and look forward to bringing these wonderful films to audiences across Canada.”
Further titles included in the deal comprise Daina O. Pusic’s directorial debut Tuesday, Owen Kline’s Funny Pages; Kelly Reichardt’s Showing Up,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
The American Friend director Wim Wenders on Patricia Highsmith: “Amazing strong person.” Photo: courtesy of Swiss Literary Archives
In honour of Patricia Highsmith and the US theatrical première of Eva Vitija’s intimate Loving Highsmith, Film Forum in New York has scheduled movies adapted from the novels of the acclaimed author to show simultaneously with the documentary.
Eva Vitija with Anne-Katrin Titze: “The character of Ripley shows much about Patricia Highsmith herself.”
Highsmith On Screen includes Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers On A Train; René Clément’s Purple Noon; Wim Wenders’s The American Friend (starring Dennis Hopper and Bruno Ganz); Anthony Minghella’s The Talented Mr. Ripley, and Todd Haynes’s Carol (screenplay by Phyllis Nagy, adapted from The Price of Salt, starring Rooney Mara, Kyle Chandler, and...
In honour of Patricia Highsmith and the US theatrical première of Eva Vitija’s intimate Loving Highsmith, Film Forum in New York has scheduled movies adapted from the novels of the acclaimed author to show simultaneously with the documentary.
Eva Vitija with Anne-Katrin Titze: “The character of Ripley shows much about Patricia Highsmith herself.”
Highsmith On Screen includes Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers On A Train; René Clément’s Purple Noon; Wim Wenders’s The American Friend (starring Dennis Hopper and Bruno Ganz); Anthony Minghella’s The Talented Mr. Ripley, and Todd Haynes’s Carol (screenplay by Phyllis Nagy, adapted from The Price of Salt, starring Rooney Mara, Kyle Chandler, and...
- 8/31/2022
- by Anne-Katrin Titze
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
“These three films, they’re all masterful. They’re extraordinary films, and they’re actually quite different.” It’s mid-July in Switzerland and Todd Haynes is talking melodrama: “The three masterworks for me, and to see them at a festival like Locarno, which is very rare, are Written on The Wind, Imitation of Life, and All That Heaven Allows.” Perhaps more than even the cinema of Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Todd Haynes’ films have so often intertwined with those of the late Douglas Sirk, a director whose peerless studio work from the 1940s and 1950s have been a rich source of aesthetic and emotional inspiration, most clearly seen in Haynes’ 2002 masterpiece Far From Heaven.
“Imitation of Life is a film of such remarkable resonance,” Haynes explains on a warm summer morning in the Hotel Belvedere. “I think its themes of race and pretending, of passing, and misperceptions of what you are and who you are,...
“Imitation of Life is a film of such remarkable resonance,” Haynes explains on a warm summer morning in the Hotel Belvedere. “I think its themes of race and pretending, of passing, and misperceptions of what you are and who you are,...
- 8/31/2022
- by Rory O'Connor
- The Film Stage
Roadside Attractions movies following their releases on the big screen will now be found on Hulu after the distributor signed a multi-year output deal with the streamer for the post-theatrical Pay 1 window.
Hulu will get exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films as Call Jane, Oscar nominee Phyllis Nagy’s feature directorial debut starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver about an underground group of abortion activists in 1968 Chicago willing to break the law to support women’s health; and Gigi & Nate, starring Charlie Rowe, Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi. That pic, inspired by true events, tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope via his relationship with his service animal, a charming and curious capuchin monkey named Gigi.
Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen said, “Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone – but especially...
Hulu will get exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films as Call Jane, Oscar nominee Phyllis Nagy’s feature directorial debut starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver about an underground group of abortion activists in 1968 Chicago willing to break the law to support women’s health; and Gigi & Nate, starring Charlie Rowe, Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi. That pic, inspired by true events, tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope via his relationship with his service animal, a charming and curious capuchin monkey named Gigi.
Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen said, “Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone – but especially...
- 8/25/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Hulu will become the new post-theatrical pay one window for Roadside Attractions over the next couple of years. Under the terms of the deal, Hulu gets the exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films like “Call Jane” and “Gigi & Nate.”
Hulu, currently owned two-thirds by Disney and one-third by Comcast, has been a great friend to arthouse cinema and independent film. The streaming platform’s pre-existing output deals with Neon, IFC, and Magnolia, as well as its in-house relationship with Searchlight, keeps the distributors in business. The only other major entity with similar deals is Showtime, which carries A24 and Bleecker Street.
Find out much more about the “in flux” economics of such streaming indie-film distribution deals here from IndieWire’s Eric Kohn. Disney, by the way, is contractually obligated to buy out Comcast’s stake in Hulu in January 2024; the minimum valuation for the profitable streaming service (still a rarity!
Hulu, currently owned two-thirds by Disney and one-third by Comcast, has been a great friend to arthouse cinema and independent film. The streaming platform’s pre-existing output deals with Neon, IFC, and Magnolia, as well as its in-house relationship with Searchlight, keeps the distributors in business. The only other major entity with similar deals is Showtime, which carries A24 and Bleecker Street.
Find out much more about the “in flux” economics of such streaming indie-film distribution deals here from IndieWire’s Eric Kohn. Disney, by the way, is contractually obligated to buy out Comcast’s stake in Hulu in January 2024; the minimum valuation for the profitable streaming service (still a rarity!
- 8/25/2022
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
New movies from Roadside Attractions, the independent production company behind “Judy,” “The Peanut Butter Falcon” and “Manchester by the Sea,” will arrive on Hulu after playing in theaters.
Roadside Attractions inked a multi-year output deal with Hulu for its post-theatrical window — known as the pay one window — sooner bringing the company’s films to the streamer.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films including director Phyllis Nagy’s abortion drama “Call Jane,” starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver; and the feel-good “Gigi & Nate,” featuring Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi.
Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen called the partnership “a win for everyone.”
“Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone — but especially the talented producers whose films we acquire for distribution,” the co-presidents said in a statement. “It means we at...
Roadside Attractions inked a multi-year output deal with Hulu for its post-theatrical window — known as the pay one window — sooner bringing the company’s films to the streamer.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films including director Phyllis Nagy’s abortion drama “Call Jane,” starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver; and the feel-good “Gigi & Nate,” featuring Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi.
Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen called the partnership “a win for everyone.”
“Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone — but especially the talented producers whose films we acquire for distribution,” the co-presidents said in a statement. “It means we at...
- 8/25/2022
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Roadside Attractions and Hulu announced on Thursday that they have reached a multi-year streaming deal that will see Roadside’s theatrical releases stream on Hulu during their pay one theatrical window.
“Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone – but especially the talented producers whose films we acquire for distribution,” said Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen. “It means we at Roadside can focus on maximizing our films in theaters with the confidence they will find a corresponding home on Hulu’s premium streaming platform, which delivers the industry’s highest caliber and most entertaining independent cinema.”
Among the upcoming Roadside films that will stream exclusively on Hulu are “Call Jane,” the feature directorial debut of Emmy and Oscar-nominated screenwriter Phyllis Nagy. Starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, the timely film tells the story of the Janes, a group of underground abortion activists who provided abortions in...
“Our new relationship with Hulu is a win for everyone – but especially the talented producers whose films we acquire for distribution,” said Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen. “It means we at Roadside can focus on maximizing our films in theaters with the confidence they will find a corresponding home on Hulu’s premium streaming platform, which delivers the industry’s highest caliber and most entertaining independent cinema.”
Among the upcoming Roadside films that will stream exclusively on Hulu are “Call Jane,” the feature directorial debut of Emmy and Oscar-nominated screenwriter Phyllis Nagy. Starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, the timely film tells the story of the Janes, a group of underground abortion activists who provided abortions in...
- 8/25/2022
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Roadside Attractions announced Thursday it has entered a multi-year output deal with Hulu that will see films from the veteran specialty distributor hit the streamer during the post-theatrical pay one window.
The deal was announced by Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen alongside Hulu president Joe Earley.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside films, including Call Jane. Oscar nominee Phyllis Nagy’s timely feature directorial debut, starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, follows an underground group of abortion activists in 1968 Chicago willing to break the law to support women’s health.
Gigi & Nate, starring Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi, is another upcoming film that’s part of the arrangement. The film tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope via his relationship with his service animal,...
Roadside Attractions announced Thursday it has entered a multi-year output deal with Hulu that will see films from the veteran specialty distributor hit the streamer during the post-theatrical pay one window.
The deal was announced by Roadside co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen alongside Hulu president Joe Earley.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive U.S. streaming rights to upcoming Roadside films, including Call Jane. Oscar nominee Phyllis Nagy’s timely feature directorial debut, starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, follows an underground group of abortion activists in 1968 Chicago willing to break the law to support women’s health.
Gigi & Nate, starring Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden and Jim Belushi, is another upcoming film that’s part of the arrangement. The film tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope via his relationship with his service animal,...
- 8/25/2022
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Deal covers upcoming releases Call Jane, Gigi & Nate.
Roadside Attractions has entered into a multi-year output deal with Hulu for the post-theatrical pay 1 window.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive US streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films such as Phyllis Nagy’s abortion drama Call Jane (pictured) starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver.
The roster includes Gigi & Nate which stars Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden, and Jim Belushi and tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope through a relationship with his service animal, a capuchin monkey named Gigi.
Roadside Attractions has entered into a multi-year output deal with Hulu for the post-theatrical pay 1 window.
Under the terms of the deal, Hulu will receive exclusive US streaming rights to upcoming Roadside Attractions films such as Phyllis Nagy’s abortion drama Call Jane (pictured) starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver.
The roster includes Gigi & Nate which stars Charlie Rowe, Marcia Gay Harden, and Jim Belushi and tells the story of Nate Gibson, a young disabled man who regains hope through a relationship with his service animal, a capuchin monkey named Gigi.
- 8/25/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Call Jane Trailer — Phyllis Nagy‘s Call Jane (2022) movie trailer has been released by Roadside Attractions. The Call Jane trailer stars Elizabeth Banks, Sigourney Weaver, Chris Messina, Wunmi Mosaku, Kate Mara, Cory Michael Smith, Grace Edwards, and Evangeline Young. Crew Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi wrote the screenplay for Call Jane. Name created the [...]
Continue reading: Call Jane (2022) Movie Trailer: Elizabeth Banks & Sigourney Weaver create an Underground Abortion Network...
Continue reading: Call Jane (2022) Movie Trailer: Elizabeth Banks & Sigourney Weaver create an Underground Abortion Network...
- 8/20/2022
- by Rollo Tomasi
- Film-Book
Vertigo Releasing has acquired Phyllis Nagy’s “Call Jane,” starring Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver, for U.K. and Ireland distribution.
The film explores the true story of the Janes, an underground collective of women, who in Chicago during the 1960s, came together to secretly provide nearly 12,000 women and girls with safe and secure abortions. It follows Joy (Banks), a suburban wife, and mother to a smart teenage daughter, whose happy life is derailed when her much wanted pregnancy becomes life threatening.
The cast also includes Chris Messina and Kate Mara.
The film had a stellar festival run, including play dates at Sundance and Berlin. It is written by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi and produced by Robbie Brenner, David Wulf and Kevin McKeon.
Reviewing the film for Variety, critic Peter Debruge wrote: “The female empowerment message comes through loud and clear in ‘Call Jane,’ especially in Banks’ performance.”
Wahida Niblo,...
The film explores the true story of the Janes, an underground collective of women, who in Chicago during the 1960s, came together to secretly provide nearly 12,000 women and girls with safe and secure abortions. It follows Joy (Banks), a suburban wife, and mother to a smart teenage daughter, whose happy life is derailed when her much wanted pregnancy becomes life threatening.
The cast also includes Chris Messina and Kate Mara.
The film had a stellar festival run, including play dates at Sundance and Berlin. It is written by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi and produced by Robbie Brenner, David Wulf and Kevin McKeon.
Reviewing the film for Variety, critic Peter Debruge wrote: “The female empowerment message comes through loud and clear in ‘Call Jane,’ especially in Banks’ performance.”
Wahida Niblo,...
- 8/19/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Arriving with unfortunately renewed significance since its Sundance Film Festival premiere earlier this, Phyllis Nagy’s Call Jane dramatizes the story of The Jane Collective in the latest 60s of Chicago. Following Elizabeth Banks’ character as a suburban housewife whose pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical establishment unwilling to terminate her pregnancy in order to save her life. This leads her to connect with Sigourney Weaver’s character, who leads an underground collective providing access to illegal abortions. Ahead of an October release, the first trailer has now arrived.
Jake Kring-Schreifels said in his review, “Call Jane is a competently made, well-acted historical drama that doesn’t give its charged subject matter the stakes or urgency it needs. Loosely based on The Jane Collective, an underground organization that provided illegal abortions for women in need of its services, Phyllis Nagy’s feature-length directorial debut offers a timely,...
Jake Kring-Schreifels said in his review, “Call Jane is a competently made, well-acted historical drama that doesn’t give its charged subject matter the stakes or urgency it needs. Loosely based on The Jane Collective, an underground organization that provided illegal abortions for women in need of its services, Phyllis Nagy’s feature-length directorial debut offers a timely,...
- 8/17/2022
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Elizabeth Banks stars in the new trailer for “Call Jane” by director Phyllis Nagy. Taking place in 1968 Chicago, the movie is inspired by true events and captures the zeitgeist in the late ’60s regarding safe and legal abortions.
Read More: ‘Sidney’: Oprah Winfrey-Produced Documentary About Sidney Poitier Gets First Trailer
“As the city and the nation are poised on the brink of political upheaval, suburban housewife Joy (Banks) leads an ordinary life with her husband and daughter,” a logline reads. “When Joy’s pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical establishment unwilling to terminate her pregnancy in order to save her life.
“Her journey for a solution leads her to Virginia (Sigourney Weaver), an independent visionary fiercely committed to women’s health, and Gwen (Wunmi Mosaku), an activist who dreams of a day when all women will have access to abortion, regardless of their ability to pay.
Read More: ‘Sidney’: Oprah Winfrey-Produced Documentary About Sidney Poitier Gets First Trailer
“As the city and the nation are poised on the brink of political upheaval, suburban housewife Joy (Banks) leads an ordinary life with her husband and daughter,” a logline reads. “When Joy’s pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical establishment unwilling to terminate her pregnancy in order to save her life.
“Her journey for a solution leads her to Virginia (Sigourney Weaver), an independent visionary fiercely committed to women’s health, and Gwen (Wunmi Mosaku), an activist who dreams of a day when all women will have access to abortion, regardless of their ability to pay.
- 8/16/2022
- by Shakiel Mahjouri
- ET Canada
Even though her own life depended on it, Elizabeth Banks’ character Joy had to search for an underground abortion clinic to end her possibly fatal pregnancy in the upcoming movie Call Jane. On Tuesday, Roadside Attractions released the official trailer for the 1960s-set film, which is based on true events and follows a housewife named Joy as she fights to get an abortion and joins the Jane Collective. And boy… is the film timely.
“What’s the treatment?” asks Joy’s husband in an opening scene. “To not be pregnant,...
“What’s the treatment?” asks Joy’s husband in an opening scene. “To not be pregnant,...
- 8/16/2022
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
"We are of use! Yeah it's not perfect, but it works." Roadside Attr. has unveiled the first official trailer for the drama Call Jane, which originally premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. This film is a dramatized, fictional version of the story of "The Janes", the underground abortion network that ran in the late 60s / early 70s in Chicago. The real story is told in the documentary called The Janes, which was already released by HBO. In this film, the story follows a married woman with an unwanted pregnancy lives in a time in America where she can't get a legal abortion and works with a group of suburban women to find help. After her own procedure she begins to work with them to help other women get safe abortions. "Inspired by true events, director Phyllis Nagy's film captures the essence of late-60s social change...
- 8/16/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Click here to read the full article.
In the first trailer for the drama, Call Jane, Elizabeth Banks plays a woman whose dangerous pregnancy leads her to seek an illegal abortion as she ultimately joins forces with the underground Jane collective in 1968 Chicago.
The film, which premiered at Sundance, has become even more timely since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, eliminating the constitutional right to abortion and allowing states to regulate the procedure.
Directed by Phyllis Nagy and inspired by true events, Call Jane stars Banks as suburban housewife Joy, whose pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition. Told that the only treatment is “to not be pregnant” but facing barriers to that procedure, Joy stumbles across an ad for Jane, the clandestine Chicago group that helped women obtain safe, affordable abortions in the late ’60s and early ’70s when the procedure was a crime in Illinois and other states.
In the first trailer for the drama, Call Jane, Elizabeth Banks plays a woman whose dangerous pregnancy leads her to seek an illegal abortion as she ultimately joins forces with the underground Jane collective in 1968 Chicago.
The film, which premiered at Sundance, has become even more timely since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, eliminating the constitutional right to abortion and allowing states to regulate the procedure.
Directed by Phyllis Nagy and inspired by true events, Call Jane stars Banks as suburban housewife Joy, whose pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition. Told that the only treatment is “to not be pregnant” but facing barriers to that procedure, Joy stumbles across an ad for Jane, the clandestine Chicago group that helped women obtain safe, affordable abortions in the late ’60s and early ’70s when the procedure was a crime in Illinois and other states.
- 8/16/2022
- by Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
‘Call Jane’ Trailer: Elizabeth Banks Joins an Underground Abortion Ring in Pre-Roe Era Drama (Video)
In the first trailer for “Call Jane,” it’s 1968 in Chicago, and Elizabeth Banks has just learned that she has only a 50 chance to live if she were to give birth. While her doctor recommends an emergency termination to the pregnancy to save her life, a medical board of men all votes “no” in performing the procedure and lets her know to her face.
“I’m here, I’m right here,” Banks says feebly in front of this body of men that barely notices her.
That’s the set up for this pre-“Roe v. Wade” era drama called “Call Jane,” which tells the true story of a group of women who lead an underground movement designed to help women get abortions they desperately need. The film shows how Banks goes from a woman in need to a woman on the front lines of the abortion fight.
Also Read:
‘Call Jane’ Stars Elizabeth Banks,...
“I’m here, I’m right here,” Banks says feebly in front of this body of men that barely notices her.
That’s the set up for this pre-“Roe v. Wade” era drama called “Call Jane,” which tells the true story of a group of women who lead an underground movement designed to help women get abortions they desperately need. The film shows how Banks goes from a woman in need to a woman on the front lines of the abortion fight.
Also Read:
‘Call Jane’ Stars Elizabeth Banks,...
- 8/16/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
One of the socially urgent films this fall festival season sure to generate conversation wherever it screens is “Call Jane,” the Elizabeth Banks-led drama that tells the true story of the Jane Collective. The underground organization, which was officially known as the Abortion Counseling Service of Women’s Liberation, performed over 11,000 safe abortions in the Chicago area between 1969 and 1973 when the procedure was still illegal. If that wasn’t enough to pique your interest, the film has the added pedigree of being the feature directorial debut of playwright Phyllis Nagy, who wrote the screenplay for Todd Haynes’ “Carol.”
The film is set in Chicago, 1968, when the city and the nation are poised on the brink of political upheaval. Suburban housewife Joy (Elizabeth Banks) leads an ordinary life with her husband and daughter. But when Joy’s pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical...
The film is set in Chicago, 1968, when the city and the nation are poised on the brink of political upheaval. Suburban housewife Joy (Elizabeth Banks) leads an ordinary life with her husband and daughter. But when Joy’s pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical...
- 8/16/2022
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
The fashions, fabrics and eye-crossingly patterned wallpapers of the 1970s abound in “Angry Annie,” a French period piece practically painted in avocado green and Le Creuset orange, with hand-crocheted accessories for good measure. Would that the rest of Blandine Lenoir’s rousing abortion drama felt quite so dated. Instead, in a year where the overturning of Roe v. Wade signifies a major step back in the collective fight for women’s reproductive rights, this story of women banding together to assert their bodily autonomy in an age of sexual revolution feels all too timely: not merely a compelling reminder of how things were, but a warning of how they could yet be.
Bright and predominantly hopeful in tone, and powered by a typically lovable performance from recent César winner Laure Calamy (“Call My Agent”) as a meek wife and mother emboldened by an underground women’s movement, this is a less visceral,...
Bright and predominantly hopeful in tone, and powered by a typically lovable performance from recent César winner Laure Calamy (“Call My Agent”) as a meek wife and mother emboldened by an underground women’s movement, this is a less visceral,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Guy Lodge
- Variety Film + TV
The 2022 Hamptons International Film Festival has unveiled its lineup of films.
The 30th anniversary of Hiff kicks off October 7 with five world-premiere screenings including locally shot “Who Invited Charlie?” directed by Xavier Manrique, screening as both a Spotlight selection and as part of the Signature Program Views from Long Island section, supported by Suffolk County Film Commission. Jordana Brewster, Adam Pally, and Reid Scott lead the film about a Hamptons-based family who are forced to come to terms with their past after a mysterious Charlie unexpectedly shows up. The festival runs October 7 through 16.
Discovery+’s “January 6th” documentary, directed by Jules and Gédéon Naudet, also makes its world premiere as part of the World Cinema Documentary section. The film examines the January 6 insurrection from the unique perspective of the heroes, first responders, and survivors of the attack as they reveal their first-hand experience of the stand. “Pinball – The Man Who Saved the Game,...
The 30th anniversary of Hiff kicks off October 7 with five world-premiere screenings including locally shot “Who Invited Charlie?” directed by Xavier Manrique, screening as both a Spotlight selection and as part of the Signature Program Views from Long Island section, supported by Suffolk County Film Commission. Jordana Brewster, Adam Pally, and Reid Scott lead the film about a Hamptons-based family who are forced to come to terms with their past after a mysterious Charlie unexpectedly shows up. The festival runs October 7 through 16.
Discovery+’s “January 6th” documentary, directed by Jules and Gédéon Naudet, also makes its world premiere as part of the World Cinema Documentary section. The film examines the January 6 insurrection from the unique perspective of the heroes, first responders, and survivors of the attack as they reveal their first-hand experience of the stand. “Pinball – The Man Who Saved the Game,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
After pulling off the near miraculous feat of mounting two in-person editions in the middle of a global pandemic, the organizing team of the Transilvania Film Festival had hoped for a return to normalcy this year – hopes that were quickly dashed when Russian troops invaded neighboring Ukraine on Feb. 24.
The tone and tenor of this year’s event swiftly shifted gears, says TIFF founder Tudor Giurgiu, as festival leadership looked to strike a precarious balance. “The lives of many people have been turned upside-down. We need to be empathetic and pay attention to what’s happening over there and try to mirror through the festival program this tragedy which is happening in Ukraine,” Giurgiu tells Variety.
As TIFF kicks off its 21st edition, which runs June 17 – 26, the war in Ukraine will be reaching the conclusion of its fourth month, a period that has already dramatically upended life in its Eastern European neighbor.
The tone and tenor of this year’s event swiftly shifted gears, says TIFF founder Tudor Giurgiu, as festival leadership looked to strike a precarious balance. “The lives of many people have been turned upside-down. We need to be empathetic and pay attention to what’s happening over there and try to mirror through the festival program this tragedy which is happening in Ukraine,” Giurgiu tells Variety.
As TIFF kicks off its 21st edition, which runs June 17 – 26, the war in Ukraine will be reaching the conclusion of its fourth month, a period that has already dramatically upended life in its Eastern European neighbor.
- 6/16/2022
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
In May, Politico obtained a leaked draft penned by Supreme Court Justice Alito showing a majority ruling to overturn both Roe. vs. Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992). If the leaked documents are correct, it would set abortion rights in the United States back fifty years.
Serendipitously, two films premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival about the abortion activists known as the Jane Collective: Phyllis Nagy’s drama “Call Jane,” set for release in October, and Tia Lessin and Emma Pildes’ documentary “The Janes.” The collection’s direct action activism helped an estimated 11,000 women and girls, mostly low-income and women of color, receive safe and affordable abortions.
Continue reading ‘The Janes’ Review: A Bittersweet Look At Abortion Rights Issues & Setbacks at The Playlist.
Serendipitously, two films premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival about the abortion activists known as the Jane Collective: Phyllis Nagy’s drama “Call Jane,” set for release in October, and Tia Lessin and Emma Pildes’ documentary “The Janes.” The collection’s direct action activism helped an estimated 11,000 women and girls, mostly low-income and women of color, receive safe and affordable abortions.
Continue reading ‘The Janes’ Review: A Bittersweet Look At Abortion Rights Issues & Setbacks at The Playlist.
- 6/10/2022
- by Marya E. Gates
- The Playlist
In preparation for a summer return to in-person artist development labs, the Sundance Institute today named those selected as fellows for its 2022 Directors, Screenwriters and Native Labs.
Creatives developing original work for the screen as part of the Native Lab include Justin Ducharme (Positions), Taietsarón:sere ‘Tai’ Leclaire (How to Deal with Systemic Racism in the Afterlife), Daniel Pewewardy (Residential), Tiare Ribeaux (Huaka’i) and Tim Worrall (Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End).
Those participating in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Dina Amer (Cain and Abel), Zandashé Brown (The Matriarch), Caledonia Curry and Meagan Brothers (Sibylant Sisters), Hasan Hadi (The President’s Cake), Michael León and Ashley Alvafez (Crabs in a Barrel), Eliza McNitt (Black Hole), Olive Nwosu (Lady), Neo Sora (Earthquake) and Yuan Yang (Late Spring).
The Native Lab began online from May 2-6 and continues in person from May 9-14, in Santa Fe, Nm, for...
Creatives developing original work for the screen as part of the Native Lab include Justin Ducharme (Positions), Taietsarón:sere ‘Tai’ Leclaire (How to Deal with Systemic Racism in the Afterlife), Daniel Pewewardy (Residential), Tiare Ribeaux (Huaka’i) and Tim Worrall (Ka Whawhai Tonu – Struggle Without End).
Those participating in the Directors Lab and/or the Screenwriters Lab include Dina Amer (Cain and Abel), Zandashé Brown (The Matriarch), Caledonia Curry and Meagan Brothers (Sibylant Sisters), Hasan Hadi (The President’s Cake), Michael León and Ashley Alvafez (Crabs in a Barrel), Eliza McNitt (Black Hole), Olive Nwosu (Lady), Neo Sora (Earthquake) and Yuan Yang (Late Spring).
The Native Lab began online from May 2-6 and continues in person from May 9-14, in Santa Fe, Nm, for...
- 5/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Number 9 Films development editor will focus on new talent.
London-based international sales, production and finance company Protagonist Pictures has appointed Alice Vail as creative executive.
Vail joins from Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley’s Number 9 Films where she worked as development editor.
Reporting to head of development Len Rowles and head of acquisitions Luane Gauer, Vail will work across Protagonist’s film and television projects with a focus on supporting new talent.
Vail began her career at film and TV agency Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, where she worked with writers and directors including Academy Award-nominee Phyllis Nagy, Saint Maud director Rose Glass,...
London-based international sales, production and finance company Protagonist Pictures has appointed Alice Vail as creative executive.
Vail joins from Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley’s Number 9 Films where she worked as development editor.
Reporting to head of development Len Rowles and head of acquisitions Luane Gauer, Vail will work across Protagonist’s film and television projects with a focus on supporting new talent.
Vail began her career at film and TV agency Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, where she worked with writers and directors including Academy Award-nominee Phyllis Nagy, Saint Maud director Rose Glass,...
- 4/25/2022
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
International finance, production and sales company Protagonist Pictures has appointed Alice Vail as creative executive, reporting into head of development Len Rowles and head of acquisitions Luane Gauer. Vail will be working across Protagonist’s film and television projects with a focus on supporting new talent.
Vail previously served as the development editor at Number 9 Films, working on several high-profile projects including Eva Husson’s Cannes 2021 official selection “Mothering Sunday,” and Oliver Hermanus’ “Living,” which bowed at Sundance earlier this year.
Vail began her career working at the film and TV agency, Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, where she worked with writers and directors including Oscar-nominee Phyllis Nagy (“Carol”), “Saint Maud” director Rose Glass, and “Ida” screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewicz.
Rowles and Gauer said: “We are delighted to welcome Alice to the Protagonist team. Her broad industry experience, ability to analyze scripts with a view to worldwide market appeal, and her...
Vail previously served as the development editor at Number 9 Films, working on several high-profile projects including Eva Husson’s Cannes 2021 official selection “Mothering Sunday,” and Oliver Hermanus’ “Living,” which bowed at Sundance earlier this year.
Vail began her career working at the film and TV agency, Casarotto Ramsay & Associates, where she worked with writers and directors including Oscar-nominee Phyllis Nagy (“Carol”), “Saint Maud” director Rose Glass, and “Ida” screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewicz.
Rowles and Gauer said: “We are delighted to welcome Alice to the Protagonist team. Her broad industry experience, ability to analyze scripts with a view to worldwide market appeal, and her...
- 4/25/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.