Rita Ora, the renowned British singer famous for hits like “R.I.P,” “How We Do,” and “Hot Right Now,” stands at a height of 5 feet 5 ½ inches (166.4 cm).
Rita Ora’s Actual Height Revealed
In a candid Wired interview, she humorously shared, “Well, I’d like to think I’m 5’11, but nobody believes me. I’m more like 5’7, 5’6, 5’7…Yeah, I think being tall is gorgeous.”
While she playfully exaggerates her height aspirations, Rita Ora’s actual height of 5’5 ½” is in line with the average height of a British woman.
Rita Sahatçiu Ora is a British singer, songwriter, and actress (Credit: WENN / Avalon)
Shoe Size Consistency With Height
Rita Ora’s shoe size, typically a US size 8, is not considered unusually large for her height. Generally, shoe size is not strongly correlated with height, and variations in shoe size can occur among individuals of the same height.
Rita Ora’s shoe size is...
Rita Ora’s Actual Height Revealed
In a candid Wired interview, she humorously shared, “Well, I’d like to think I’m 5’11, but nobody believes me. I’m more like 5’7, 5’6, 5’7…Yeah, I think being tall is gorgeous.”
While she playfully exaggerates her height aspirations, Rita Ora’s actual height of 5’5 ½” is in line with the average height of a British woman.
Rita Sahatçiu Ora is a British singer, songwriter, and actress (Credit: WENN / Avalon)
Shoe Size Consistency With Height
Rita Ora’s shoe size, typically a US size 8, is not considered unusually large for her height. Generally, shoe size is not strongly correlated with height, and variations in shoe size can occur among individuals of the same height.
Rita Ora’s shoe size is...
- 4/17/2024
- by Anne De Guia
- Your Next Shoes
Chelsea Winstanley is opening up about the end of her marriage to Taika Waititi.
If you didn’t know, the former couple, both 48, married in 2011, share two daughters Te Hinekahu, 11, and Matewa Kiritapu, 8, and split in 2018.
In a new interview, Chelsea got “brutally honest” while reflecting on feeling “resentment” towards Taika while he worked on Thor: Ragnarok and she raised their daughters.
Keep reading to find out more…“I didn’t want to be the dutiful wife and race over to the Gold Coast where he was making Thor and sit in an apartment all day long f—king day, twiddling my thumbs,” Chelsea recalled on the It’s Personal With Anika Moa podcast. “You don’t make a human being on your own, therefore you shouldn’t have to raise a human being on your own either.”
Chelsea noted that moving to be Taika while he worked on the...
If you didn’t know, the former couple, both 48, married in 2011, share two daughters Te Hinekahu, 11, and Matewa Kiritapu, 8, and split in 2018.
In a new interview, Chelsea got “brutally honest” while reflecting on feeling “resentment” towards Taika while he worked on Thor: Ragnarok and she raised their daughters.
Keep reading to find out more…“I didn’t want to be the dutiful wife and race over to the Gold Coast where he was making Thor and sit in an apartment all day long f—king day, twiddling my thumbs,” Chelsea recalled on the It’s Personal With Anika Moa podcast. “You don’t make a human being on your own, therefore you shouldn’t have to raise a human being on your own either.”
Chelsea noted that moving to be Taika while he worked on the...
- 2/26/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
With a few weeks to go until the original song for Oscars shortlist is released, Aotearoa, New Zealand-based Māori Artist Stan Walker has released the video for the haunting original song created for Ava DuVernay‘s searing drama “Origin,”
“This summer, I was talking with my producing partner Paul Garnes about wanting something unexpected for an original song to end our film, ‘Origin.’ The next day, he showed me Stan’s ‘Ultralight Beam’ interpretation and I watched it four times, back to back. I jumped online and blessedly, we had a producer pal of mine, Chelsea Winstanley in common. I DMed Chelsea, and 24 hours later I was on the phone with Stan Walker,” DuVernay said.
Inspired by Isabel Wilkerson’s Pulitzer Prize winning book, “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent,” the film boasts an all-star cast including Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”), Jon Bernthal and Niecy Nash-Betts.
The film...
“This summer, I was talking with my producing partner Paul Garnes about wanting something unexpected for an original song to end our film, ‘Origin.’ The next day, he showed me Stan’s ‘Ultralight Beam’ interpretation and I watched it four times, back to back. I jumped online and blessedly, we had a producer pal of mine, Chelsea Winstanley in common. I DMed Chelsea, and 24 hours later I was on the phone with Stan Walker,” DuVernay said.
Inspired by Isabel Wilkerson’s Pulitzer Prize winning book, “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent,” the film boasts an all-star cast including Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”), Jon Bernthal and Niecy Nash-Betts.
The film...
- 11/27/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
You may have noticed that there’s been a lot of talk about Lily Gladstone and her Indigenous heritage and what that fact will mean for her chances in the Academy Award Best Actress race as her epic feature “Killers of the Flower Moon” from director Martin Scorsese preps for liftoff in wide theatrical release this Friday (October 20). Gladstone is running a solid second place behind Emma Stone (“Poor Things”) in the Gold Derby combined Oscar odds for her much-praised performance as Osage Nation member Mollie Burkhart in the tragic fact-based saga.
Gladstone herself is of Blackfeet and Nimiipuu heritage and raised on a Blackfeet Nation reservation in Montana. One would presume this fact won’t work against the actress in 2024 as it might have in, say, 1954 or even ’74. And in fact it was only earlier this year that Michelle Yeoh became the first Asian actress to win Best Actress...
Gladstone herself is of Blackfeet and Nimiipuu heritage and raised on a Blackfeet Nation reservation in Montana. One would presume this fact won’t work against the actress in 2024 as it might have in, say, 1954 or even ’74. And in fact it was only earlier this year that Michelle Yeoh became the first Asian actress to win Best Actress...
- 10/17/2023
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
The 32-year-old singer didn’t hold back when answering a question about her filmmaker husband.
Rita Ora left viewers stunned during a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen” when she playfully described her husband, acclaimed director Taika Waititi, as a “sex god.” The candid moment occurred when Andy asked Rita to describe the aura of her showbiz pals, including Justin Bieber and Cardi B. While Rita had no trouble sharing insights about others, she found herself momentarily stumped when it came to characterizing her director beau.
Amid giggles and laughter, Rita blurted out, “Just… just… sex god,” prompting amusement not only from the studio audience but also from her fellow guest, DJ and producer Diplo.
Last month, the couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary in a sweet way — by finally spilling the details of their intimate ceremony.
Opening up about their special day to Vogue, the...
Rita Ora left viewers stunned during a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen” when she playfully described her husband, acclaimed director Taika Waititi, as a “sex god.” The candid moment occurred when Andy asked Rita to describe the aura of her showbiz pals, including Justin Bieber and Cardi B. While Rita had no trouble sharing insights about others, she found herself momentarily stumped when it came to characterizing her director beau.
Amid giggles and laughter, Rita blurted out, “Just… just… sex god,” prompting amusement not only from the studio audience but also from her fellow guest, DJ and producer Diplo.
Last month, the couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary in a sweet way — by finally spilling the details of their intimate ceremony.
Opening up about their special day to Vogue, the...
- 9/21/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Rita Ora and Taika Waititi are celebrating their first wedding anniversary in a sweet way — by finally spilling the details of their intimate ceremony!
Opening up about their special day to Vouge, the couple admits that they’ve been enjoying all the misinformation that has spread like wildfire about their nuptials across the internet. After sparking romance rumours in April of 2021, when Ora shared a pic of herself hugging the director, the 32-year-old singer and 47-year-old filmmaker generally played their cards close to their chest when it came to sharing their relationship.
They made their red carpet debut in August 2021 at the premiere of “Suicide Squad”, in which Waititi starred in, before engagement rumours began swirling in June 2022, after they’d been together for more than a year. So it’s no surprise that fans have been speculating about how the couple formally tied the knot.
“It’s actually been...
Opening up about their special day to Vouge, the couple admits that they’ve been enjoying all the misinformation that has spread like wildfire about their nuptials across the internet. After sparking romance rumours in April of 2021, when Ora shared a pic of herself hugging the director, the 32-year-old singer and 47-year-old filmmaker generally played their cards close to their chest when it came to sharing their relationship.
They made their red carpet debut in August 2021 at the premiere of “Suicide Squad”, in which Waititi starred in, before engagement rumours began swirling in June 2022, after they’d been together for more than a year. So it’s no surprise that fans have been speculating about how the couple formally tied the knot.
“It’s actually been...
- 8/5/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Before Taika Waititi tied the knot with Rita Ora, the "Thor: Love and Thunder" director was married to New Zealand film producer Chelsea Winstanley. Winstanley met Waititi in her 20s when she interviewed him for a documentary series, according to The New Zealand Herald. Years later, the stars reconnected while working on the 2010 film "Boy." After falling in love, Waititi and Winstanley got married two years later and went on to welcome two daughters together. Over the course of their relationship, Waititi and Winstanley collaborated on films like "What We Do in the Shadows" and "Jojo Rabbit." They were married for six years before they quietly split in 2018.
Although they're no longer together, the two continue to coparent their kids, Te Hinekahu and Matewa Kiritapu. Waititi frequently posts photos of his daughters visiting him on the set of his projects on Instagram. In 2022, he even created an Instagram series with his kids called #DadsOnTour,...
Although they're no longer together, the two continue to coparent their kids, Te Hinekahu and Matewa Kiritapu. Waititi frequently posts photos of his daughters visiting him on the set of his projects on Instagram. In 2022, he even created an Instagram series with his kids called #DadsOnTour,...
- 7/17/2023
- by Michele Mendez
- Popsugar.com
Rita Ora is officially a married woman. Earlier this January, the 32-year-old singer confirmed that she and Taika Waititi tied the knot following wedding rumors. "Yes. Here we are," Ora said when asked if she was married in an interview with Heart Breakfast (via People). "They say everything happens for a reason. I am officially off the market, people!" A source first confirmed the news to E! News on Aug. 9, 2022, after the couple were both seen out and about wearing gold bands.
First linked in April 2021 after Ora posted a photo with Waititi on her Instagram, the couple later made things official at a Fourth of July party in 2021 and went on to appear at a number of events together - including a screening of Waititi's latest directorial feature, "Thor: Love and Thunder."
Waititi has been married previously and shares two children with ex-wife Chelsea Winstanley. Ora hasn't been married...
First linked in April 2021 after Ora posted a photo with Waititi on her Instagram, the couple later made things official at a Fourth of July party in 2021 and went on to appear at a number of events together - including a screening of Waititi's latest directorial feature, "Thor: Love and Thunder."
Waititi has been married previously and shares two children with ex-wife Chelsea Winstanley. Ora hasn't been married...
- 7/5/2023
- by Amanda Prahl
- Popsugar.com
Rita Ora is officially off the market! Five months after sources told E! News Ora tied the knot with director Taika Waititi, the singer finally confirmed her marriage during a Jan. 27 appearance on the "Heart Breakfast" radio show, per People. When asked if she was married, Ora revealed, "Yes. Here we are," adding, "They say everything happens for a reason. I am officially off the market, people!"
Details about the couple's ceremony are still scarce, though a source previously told People they got married in a "very small" ceremony. The Sun was the first to report news of Ora and Waititi's wedding, and Daily Mail noted that both were spotted wearing gold bands on their ring fingers.
Rumors about Ora and Waititi's romance began in April 2021 when the singer posted a cozied-up snap of herself and the director in an Instagram photo series. A month later, Daily Mail reported that...
Details about the couple's ceremony are still scarce, though a source previously told People they got married in a "very small" ceremony. The Sun was the first to report news of Ora and Waititi's wedding, and Daily Mail noted that both were spotted wearing gold bands on their ring fingers.
Rumors about Ora and Waititi's romance began in April 2021 when the singer posted a cozied-up snap of herself and the director in an Instagram photo series. A month later, Daily Mail reported that...
- 1/27/2023
- by Njera Perkins
- Popsugar.com
It’s been months since rumours began to circulate that Rita Ora and Taika Waititi said ‘I do.’
Now, the “Your Song” singer has finally confirmed that she is indeed a married woman.
“Yes [I am married],” Ora said during an interview with London’s “Heart Breakfast” radio show on Friday. “I am officially off the market people.”
Read More: Rita Ora Seemingly Shows Off Wedding Ring During Home Tour After Taika Waititi Wedding
“I chose to keep it more private and keep it to myself,” she added. However, with her new single “You Only Love Me”, released today, and the accompanying music video (watch above), Ora said she plays “on what could have been,” which led to her decision to speak out about their marriage.
The new era begins now… You Only Love Me is Out Now
I'm so proud of the new music I've been working on and have been dying...
Now, the “Your Song” singer has finally confirmed that she is indeed a married woman.
“Yes [I am married],” Ora said during an interview with London’s “Heart Breakfast” radio show on Friday. “I am officially off the market people.”
Read More: Rita Ora Seemingly Shows Off Wedding Ring During Home Tour After Taika Waititi Wedding
“I chose to keep it more private and keep it to myself,” she added. However, with her new single “You Only Love Me”, released today, and the accompanying music video (watch above), Ora said she plays “on what could have been,” which led to her decision to speak out about their marriage.
The new era begins now… You Only Love Me is Out Now
I'm so proud of the new music I've been working on and have been dying...
- 1/27/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Photo: ‘Kapō’ There are new voices and themes rising in the world of cinema, and they deserve to be listened to. Hawaiian director Etienne Aurelius has made his feature film debut with the stunning film, ‘Kapō.’ The film was an official selection at the 2022 Hawaii Film Festival, Maui Film Festival, and New Zealand Film Festival. Produced by the Oscar-nominated Chelsea Winstanley (who previously produced ‘JoJo Rabbit’), the story follows a young Polynesian girl, Nanea (played by Mainei Kinimaka) as she escapes from an abusive relationship and into the mountains of Kauai. From there, she must overcome her personal battles and reform her relationship with the earth as a mythical creature guides her. Things to do: Subscribe to The Hollywood Insider’s YouTube Channel, by clicking here. Limited Time Offer – Free Subscription to The Hollywood Insider Click here to read more on The Hollywood Insider’s vision, values and mission statement...
- 11/8/2022
- by Rachel Beltowski
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
Singer Rita Ora and filmmaker Taika Waititi got married in a small ceremony in London, England. They were first spotted together in April 2021 and became red carpet official soon afterward.
They wed in private with just close family and friends, and a source told The Sun that Ora “is determined to keep the relationship as private as possible and didn’t want to make a big song and dance about the wedding.”
They may be throwing a bigger, “showbiz-style bash” at another time, but Ora will still be keeping a tight lid on affairs.
Waititi has been married once before, while Ora has had relationships with high-profile people such as musicians Calvin Harris and Andrew Watt, so it makes sense that they may be paying particular attention to their privacy in this relationship.
Waititi was married to the producer Chelsea Winstanley from 2011 to 2018, and they have two children together.
Source:...
They wed in private with just close family and friends, and a source told The Sun that Ora “is determined to keep the relationship as private as possible and didn’t want to make a big song and dance about the wedding.”
They may be throwing a bigger, “showbiz-style bash” at another time, but Ora will still be keeping a tight lid on affairs.
Waititi has been married once before, while Ora has had relationships with high-profile people such as musicians Calvin Harris and Andrew Watt, so it makes sense that they may be paying particular attention to their privacy in this relationship.
Waititi was married to the producer Chelsea Winstanley from 2011 to 2018, and they have two children together.
Source:...
- 8/11/2022
- by Jacob Linden
- Uinterview
The first round of open auditions for The Lion King Reo Māori are now open, with people based in Australia welcome to apply.
The Māori-language version of the Disney animated film is being produced by Chelsea Winstanley and Tweedie Waititi of Matewa Media.
It follows Moana Reo Māori, and a re-dubbing of Frozen is also planned.
“We are truly excited to bring the Māori versions of The Lion King and Frozen to Kiwi audiences following on from the successful release of Moana Reo Māori,” said Kylie Watson-Wheeler, senior vice president and managing director of The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand.
“The launch of Moana Reo Māori was an incredibly special moment for our New Zealand-based team, and we know that continuing to celebrate the indigenous language with the addition of these cherished films will mean a lot to the local community.”
As with Moana Reo Māori, Winstanley and Waititi...
The Māori-language version of the Disney animated film is being produced by Chelsea Winstanley and Tweedie Waititi of Matewa Media.
It follows Moana Reo Māori, and a re-dubbing of Frozen is also planned.
“We are truly excited to bring the Māori versions of The Lion King and Frozen to Kiwi audiences following on from the successful release of Moana Reo Māori,” said Kylie Watson-Wheeler, senior vice president and managing director of The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand.
“The launch of Moana Reo Māori was an incredibly special moment for our New Zealand-based team, and we know that continuing to celebrate the indigenous language with the addition of these cherished films will mean a lot to the local community.”
As with Moana Reo Māori, Winstanley and Waititi...
- 10/27/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Chelsea Winstanley, the New Zealand producer whose credits include Jojo Rabbit and What We Do In The Shadows, has opened a public casting to find voice actors from the Maori community for her re-dubbing of Disney classic The Lion King.
Lion King Reo Māori will celebrate a variety of mita (dialects) through different characters, including: Lions (Tainui); Timon and Pumbaa (Te Tai Tokerau); Rafiki (Tūhoe); Zazu (Taranaki); Hyenas (Ngāti Kahungunu); and Chorus (open to te motu whānui).
Tweedie Waititi, who previously produced the Maori version of fellow Disney animation Moana back in 2017, is also working on the project. The team said they were using Te Reo Māori experts in each rohe (region) and were open to considering non-experienced voice actors during the online auditions.
The Lion King Reo Māori is set to premiere in New Zealand and Australia in June 2022 to align with Matariki (Māori New Year). A Maori version...
Lion King Reo Māori will celebrate a variety of mita (dialects) through different characters, including: Lions (Tainui); Timon and Pumbaa (Te Tai Tokerau); Rafiki (Tūhoe); Zazu (Taranaki); Hyenas (Ngāti Kahungunu); and Chorus (open to te motu whānui).
Tweedie Waititi, who previously produced the Maori version of fellow Disney animation Moana back in 2017, is also working on the project. The team said they were using Te Reo Māori experts in each rohe (region) and were open to considering non-experienced voice actors during the online auditions.
The Lion King Reo Māori is set to premiere in New Zealand and Australia in June 2022 to align with Matariki (Māori New Year). A Maori version...
- 10/27/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Following a backlash against Cannes virtual market package They Are Us, one of the producers of the project has exited and one of the subjects of the movie, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, has criticized the project.
Since being announced on Thursday, the Rose Byrne-led film about Ardern’s response to the 2019 Christchurch mosques massacre has been widely criticized in New Zealand.
Today, veteran producer Philippa Campbell, a producer on TV hit Top Of The Lake, apologized for her own involvement and said she had not realized the pain the film would cause.
“I have listened to the concerns raised over recent days and I have heard the strength of people’s views,” Campbell said in a statement to New Zealand media.
“I now agree that the events of 15 March 2019 are too raw for film at this time and do not wish to be involved with a project that is causing such distress.
Since being announced on Thursday, the Rose Byrne-led film about Ardern’s response to the 2019 Christchurch mosques massacre has been widely criticized in New Zealand.
Today, veteran producer Philippa Campbell, a producer on TV hit Top Of The Lake, apologized for her own involvement and said she had not realized the pain the film would cause.
“I have listened to the concerns raised over recent days and I have heard the strength of people’s views,” Campbell said in a statement to New Zealand media.
“I now agree that the events of 15 March 2019 are too raw for film at this time and do not wish to be involved with a project that is causing such distress.
- 6/14/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
From surprise weddings to couples you didn't know were dating, it's been a wild week in celebrity couples news, and it seems like we could be adding Taika Waititi and Rita Ora to the list. On May 16, the duo were seen grabbing breakfast together in Sydney, Australia, where Rita is in town to film The Voice Australia and Taika was most recently filming Thor: Love and Thunder. They were spotted laughing and holding hands across the table before the 45-year-old director planted a kiss on the 30-year-old singer's hand. Taika was later seen with his arm around Rita as they went for a walk around town.
The couple first sparked romance rumors after Rita posted a pic of the pair in a gallery on Instagram alongside the caption, "Good times, memories, random things on my phone and the ones I love." In the photo, the two appear to be in...
The couple first sparked romance rumors after Rita posted a pic of the pair in a gallery on Instagram alongside the caption, "Good times, memories, random things on my phone and the ones I love." In the photo, the two appear to be in...
- 5/17/2021
- by Grayson Gilcrease
- Popsugar.com
Exclusive: Samuel Goldwyn Films has acquired U.S. rights to Night Raiders, a dystopian sci-fi feature executive produced by Oscar winner Taika Waititi.
The debut feature of writer/director Danis Goulet is set in 2043, exploring a future in which a military occupation controls disenfranchised cities in post-war North America. In this world, where children are considered property of the regime which trains them to fight, a desperate Cree woman joins an underground band of vigilantes and infiltrates a State children’s academy, so that she can get her daughter back. A parable about the experience of the Indigenous peoples of North America, Night Riders is billed as “a female-driven sci-fi drama about resilience, courage and love.”
Night Raiders stars Elle-Maija Tailfeathers (Blood Quantum), Brooklyn Letexier-Hart (Burden of Truth), Alex Tarrant (800 Words), Amanda Plummer, Gail Maurice (The Twilight Zone) and Violet Nelson (The Twilight Zone...
The debut feature of writer/director Danis Goulet is set in 2043, exploring a future in which a military occupation controls disenfranchised cities in post-war North America. In this world, where children are considered property of the regime which trains them to fight, a desperate Cree woman joins an underground band of vigilantes and infiltrates a State children’s academy, so that she can get her daughter back. A parable about the experience of the Indigenous peoples of North America, Night Riders is billed as “a female-driven sci-fi drama about resilience, courage and love.”
Night Raiders stars Elle-Maija Tailfeathers (Blood Quantum), Brooklyn Letexier-Hart (Burden of Truth), Alex Tarrant (800 Words), Amanda Plummer, Gail Maurice (The Twilight Zone) and Violet Nelson (The Twilight Zone...
- 5/4/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
This month’s Australian International Documentary Conference (Aidc) is set to include an emphasis on Indigenous stories, with the announcement of targeted initiatives and sessions.
Aidc 2021 will feature the return of the Indigenous Creators Program, which comprises four specially crafted conference sessions and marketplace activities designed by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners and international First Nations people.
The year’s event also incorporates the Indigenous Documentary Placement, a new initiative designed to provide one mid-career Indigenous practitioner with an opportunity to undertake an extended placement with the ABC.
Applications for the placement, which is being co-presented by ABC, Northern Pictures and Aidc are open until Wednesday, March 10 (apply here).
The conference will include an information session about the placement with ABC head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin and Northern Pictures head of factual Karina Holden.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington hopes the initiative will help give...
Aidc 2021 will feature the return of the Indigenous Creators Program, which comprises four specially crafted conference sessions and marketplace activities designed by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners and international First Nations people.
The year’s event also incorporates the Indigenous Documentary Placement, a new initiative designed to provide one mid-career Indigenous practitioner with an opportunity to undertake an extended placement with the ABC.
Applications for the placement, which is being co-presented by ABC, Northern Pictures and Aidc are open until Wednesday, March 10 (apply here).
The conference will include an information session about the placement with ABC head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin and Northern Pictures head of factual Karina Holden.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington hopes the initiative will help give...
- 2/15/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Exclusive: XYZ Films has boarded world sales, excluding Canada and Australia/Nz, on Berlin Panorama entry Night Raiders, the apocalyptic sci-fi exec-produced by Taika Waititi.
Set in the year 2043 when a military occupation controls disenfranchised cities in North America and children are property of the state, the female-driven dystopian story follows a woman who joins an underground band of vigilantes to infiltrate a ‘children’s academy’ and get her daughter back.
The Canada-New Zealand co-production from writer-director Danis Goulet stars Elle-Maija Tailfeathers (The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open) with Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction), Brooklyn Letexier-Hart, Alex Tarrant, Violet Nelson and Gail Maurice.
XYZ Films, which was previously aboard for U.S. rights only has upped its involvement to world rights ahead of the virtual EFM.
Producing are Paul Barkin, Tara Woodbury, Georgina Condor, Chelsea Winstanley (JoJo Rabbit) and Ainsley Gardiner (The Breaker Uppers). Thor: Ragnarok director Waititi is exec-producing along with Noah Segal,...
Set in the year 2043 when a military occupation controls disenfranchised cities in North America and children are property of the state, the female-driven dystopian story follows a woman who joins an underground band of vigilantes to infiltrate a ‘children’s academy’ and get her daughter back.
The Canada-New Zealand co-production from writer-director Danis Goulet stars Elle-Maija Tailfeathers (The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open) with Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction), Brooklyn Letexier-Hart, Alex Tarrant, Violet Nelson and Gail Maurice.
XYZ Films, which was previously aboard for U.S. rights only has upped its involvement to world rights ahead of the virtual EFM.
Producing are Paul Barkin, Tara Woodbury, Georgina Condor, Chelsea Winstanley (JoJo Rabbit) and Ainsley Gardiner (The Breaker Uppers). Thor: Ragnarok director Waititi is exec-producing along with Noah Segal,...
- 2/11/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
When Mojean Aria was asked to teach a week-long acting workshop for the Australian Institute of Performing Arts (Aipa), he agreed on one condition: they offer a free place to an aspiring young actor of Middle Eastern or North African (Mena) background.
As such, a scholarship has been established for one student (aged 12-18) from the Mena community to cover all meals, accommodation and classes during Aria’s six day, five-night residential masterclass next month.
Throughout the week, students will work with Aria – who stars with Jason Momoa in AppleTV’s See and will next be seen with Hugh Jackman in Lisa Joy’s Reminiscence – covering topics such as scene work and building a character. Industry professionals from the US will also Zoom in to give advice, guidance and feedback.
Of Iranian heritage, Aria pushed for the scholarship in order to spread awareness in the communities he grew up in...
As such, a scholarship has been established for one student (aged 12-18) from the Mena community to cover all meals, accommodation and classes during Aria’s six day, five-night residential masterclass next month.
Throughout the week, students will work with Aria – who stars with Jason Momoa in AppleTV’s See and will next be seen with Hugh Jackman in Lisa Joy’s Reminiscence – covering topics such as scene work and building a character. Industry professionals from the US will also Zoom in to give advice, guidance and feedback.
Of Iranian heritage, Aria pushed for the scholarship in order to spread awareness in the communities he grew up in...
- 11/26/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Industry Conference, talent development details.
A documentary about climate activist Greta Thunberg and a shot film about a teenage Indigenous communities activist have joined the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) line-up.
Nathan Grossman’s I Am Greta chronicles the young Swede’s meteoric rise to public attention, while James Burns’s short film The Water Walker focuses on the work of 15-year-old Autumn Peltier, an Anishinaabe water activist.
Peltier will take part in a live conversation with author Naomi Klein that will be made free to international audiences. The date will be announced closer to the start of TIFF, which...
A documentary about climate activist Greta Thunberg and a shot film about a teenage Indigenous communities activist have joined the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) line-up.
Nathan Grossman’s I Am Greta chronicles the young Swede’s meteoric rise to public attention, while James Burns’s short film The Water Walker focuses on the work of 15-year-old Autumn Peltier, an Anishinaabe water activist.
Peltier will take part in a live conversation with author Naomi Klein that will be made free to international audiences. The date will be announced closer to the start of TIFF, which...
- 8/27/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Chelsea Winstanley, the Oscar nominated producer of Jojo Rabbit and What We Do In The Shadows, has arrived back in her native New Zealand to begin filming on feature documentary Toi Tu Toi Ora – Visual Sovereignty.
The pic will follow the final year of preparation for the first international showing of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki’s forthcoming exhibition, Toi Tū Toi Ora: Contemporary Māori Art; the most comprehensive survey of contemporary Māori art to be presented in New Zealand in recent history. It will feature more than 120 indigenous artists, the majority being women, who have exhibited at Venice Biennale, Centre Pompidou in Paris and many other prestigious venues around the world.
Ranging from the 1950s to the present day, the show will highlight various art forms that combine history, story, technique and indigenous authorship. Covid-19 has been an obstacle to the exhibition but the artists and gallery...
The pic will follow the final year of preparation for the first international showing of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki’s forthcoming exhibition, Toi Tū Toi Ora: Contemporary Māori Art; the most comprehensive survey of contemporary Māori art to be presented in New Zealand in recent history. It will feature more than 120 indigenous artists, the majority being women, who have exhibited at Venice Biennale, Centre Pompidou in Paris and many other prestigious venues around the world.
Ranging from the 1950s to the present day, the show will highlight various art forms that combine history, story, technique and indigenous authorship. Covid-19 has been an obstacle to the exhibition but the artists and gallery...
- 7/8/2020
- by Tom Grater and Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Ben Mendelsohn in ‘Babyteeth’, cast by Kirsty McGregor.
Actor Ben Mendelsohn, casting director Kirsty McGregor, Australian Cinematographers Society (Acs) national president Ron Johanson and the ABC’s Sally Riley are among the Aussies recently invited to join the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science (AMPAS).
Other invitees include Dop Nicola Daley, UTA partner Bec Smith and documentary filmmaker Violeta Ayala.
In total, the Oscars body invited 819 people to join its ranks this year, 45 per cent of which were women, 36 per cent from underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 49 per cent from outside the Us.
The Academy has been on quest to widen its membership base since 2016. In 2015, only 1446 or 25 per cent of its membership base were women, with the figure now at 3179, or 33 per cent. In 2015, only 10 per cent of, or 554, members were people of colour; that now stands at 1787, or 19 per cent.
The organisation has also tripled the number...
Actor Ben Mendelsohn, casting director Kirsty McGregor, Australian Cinematographers Society (Acs) national president Ron Johanson and the ABC’s Sally Riley are among the Aussies recently invited to join the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science (AMPAS).
Other invitees include Dop Nicola Daley, UTA partner Bec Smith and documentary filmmaker Violeta Ayala.
In total, the Oscars body invited 819 people to join its ranks this year, 45 per cent of which were women, 36 per cent from underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 49 per cent from outside the Us.
The Academy has been on quest to widen its membership base since 2016. In 2015, only 1446 or 25 per cent of its membership base were women, with the figure now at 3179, or 33 per cent. In 2015, only 10 per cent of, or 554, members were people of colour; that now stands at 1787, or 19 per cent.
The organisation has also tripled the number...
- 7/2/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
“Jojo Rabbit” producer Chelsea Winstanley shared on Monday she’s launching a new production company dubbed This Too Shall Pass. The company will be based in Los Angeles and Winstanley’s native New Zealand.
“As I move into this new decade of my career I am also dedicated to giving myself a voice as a writer and director with the goal to giving cinema an opportunity to showcase stories that have not been told before”, Winstanley said in a statement.
This Too Shall Pass’s first project will be “The Appeal,” a story about a Samoan lawyer who shines a light on the racist treatment of New Zealand’s Māori population.when she takes on a case defending an ex-gang member. The film will be Winstanley’s writing and directing debut.
Also Read: Taika Waititi Joins Scorsese, Tarantino, Mendes and Bong With Directors Guild Nomination for 'Jojo Rabbit'
Two other feature films,...
“As I move into this new decade of my career I am also dedicated to giving myself a voice as a writer and director with the goal to giving cinema an opportunity to showcase stories that have not been told before”, Winstanley said in a statement.
This Too Shall Pass’s first project will be “The Appeal,” a story about a Samoan lawyer who shines a light on the racist treatment of New Zealand’s Māori population.when she takes on a case defending an ex-gang member. The film will be Winstanley’s writing and directing debut.
Also Read: Taika Waititi Joins Scorsese, Tarantino, Mendes and Bong With Directors Guild Nomination for 'Jojo Rabbit'
Two other feature films,...
- 1/20/2020
- by Sean Burch
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Chelsea Winstanley, producer of Oscar-nominated Jojo Rabbit and festival favourite What We Do In The Shadows, is launching production company This Too Shall Pass.
Based in Los Angeles and New Zealand, the new company will focus on telling “authentic stories with unique cultural perspectives” and will act as a vehicle for Winstanley’s own writing and directing projects.
Prominent on the slate is Winstanley’s writing and directing feature debut The Appeal, about a landmark legal case in New Zealand. The feature tells the story of Samoan lawyer Tiana Epati who defended a former gang member in a leading case that challenged prejudices within the criminal justice system and highlighted racial bias against the country’s Māori population.
Winstanley sees parallels in the story to Michael B Jordan and Jamie Foxx starrer Just Mercy, and calls it the “‘Poly-Brockervich’ of today with a woman at the center of the...
Based in Los Angeles and New Zealand, the new company will focus on telling “authentic stories with unique cultural perspectives” and will act as a vehicle for Winstanley’s own writing and directing projects.
Prominent on the slate is Winstanley’s writing and directing feature debut The Appeal, about a landmark legal case in New Zealand. The feature tells the story of Samoan lawyer Tiana Epati who defended a former gang member in a leading case that challenged prejudices within the criminal justice system and highlighted racial bias against the country’s Māori population.
Winstanley sees parallels in the story to Michael B Jordan and Jamie Foxx starrer Just Mercy, and calls it the “‘Poly-Brockervich’ of today with a woman at the center of the...
- 1/20/2020
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Oscar Isaac boards “The Great Machine,” Keira Knightley joins “Silent Night” and “The Dog Doc” finds a home. Castings
Legendary has closed a deal for Oscar Isaac to star in and produce superhero saga “The Great Machine.”
The project is based on Brian K. Vaughan’s comic book series “Ex Machina” with artist Tony Harris. Anna Waterhouse and Joe Shrapnel are set to adapt the story. Isaac will produce alongside his longtime manager Jason Spire. Vaughan will also produce.
“Ex Machina” charts the exploits of civil engineer Mitchell Hundred, who after a mysterious accident gains powers making him the world’s first and only superhero. In the wake of his actions during 9/11 he is elected mayor of New York City, turning his back on life as a masked vigilante. But his political career is threatened when the source of his powers returns to claim its debt.
Legendary has closed a deal for Oscar Isaac to star in and produce superhero saga “The Great Machine.”
The project is based on Brian K. Vaughan’s comic book series “Ex Machina” with artist Tony Harris. Anna Waterhouse and Joe Shrapnel are set to adapt the story. Isaac will produce alongside his longtime manager Jason Spire. Vaughan will also produce.
“Ex Machina” charts the exploits of civil engineer Mitchell Hundred, who after a mysterious accident gains powers making him the world’s first and only superhero. In the wake of his actions during 9/11 he is elected mayor of New York City, turning his back on life as a masked vigilante. But his political career is threatened when the source of his powers returns to claim its debt.
- 1/18/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Mojean Aria with Marilee Talkington in ‘See.’
Mojean Aria is in the midst of filming the biggest role of his career in a Warner Bros sci-fi thriller alongside one of his heroes in Hugh Jackman, plus Rebecca Ferguson, Thandie Newton, Cliff Curtis and Daniel Wu.
Jackman stars in Reminiscence as Nicolas Bannister, a war veteran living in a near-future Miami flooded by rising seas who has a special power: offering clients the chance to relive any memory they desire.
His life changes when he meets and embarks on a passionate affair with Ferguson’s Mae. But when another client’s memories implicate Mae in a series of violent crimes, he must uncover the truth about the woman he fell for.
Shooting in New Orleans, the film marks the directing debut of Westworld executive producer Lisa Joy, who wrote the screenplay and is producing with her Kilter Film partner Jonathan Nolan...
Mojean Aria is in the midst of filming the biggest role of his career in a Warner Bros sci-fi thriller alongside one of his heroes in Hugh Jackman, plus Rebecca Ferguson, Thandie Newton, Cliff Curtis and Daniel Wu.
Jackman stars in Reminiscence as Nicolas Bannister, a war veteran living in a near-future Miami flooded by rising seas who has a special power: offering clients the chance to relive any memory they desire.
His life changes when he meets and embarks on a passionate affair with Ferguson’s Mae. But when another client’s memories implicate Mae in a series of violent crimes, he must uncover the truth about the woman he fell for.
Shooting in New Orleans, the film marks the directing debut of Westworld executive producer Lisa Joy, who wrote the screenplay and is producing with her Kilter Film partner Jonathan Nolan...
- 1/12/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
The Chicago Indie Critics announced their nominees Saturday for the group’s fourth annual film awards, with Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Little Women leading with eight nominations, including Best Studio Film and Best Director.
Following next with seven nominations each were The Irishman, Marriage Story, 1917, and Parasite.
Winners will be announced on January 4, at the Cards Against Humanity Theater in Chicago. Stand-up comedian and former film critic Katie Baker is set to host the ceremony, which will stream live on YouTube.
Following next with seven nominations each were The Irishman, Marriage Story, 1917, and Parasite.
Winners will be announced on January 4, at the Cards Against Humanity Theater in Chicago. Stand-up comedian and former film critic Katie Baker is set to host the ceremony, which will stream live on YouTube.
- 12/29/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Producer Chelsea Winstanley heads to Toronto with “Jojo Rabbit,” a black comedy set in WWII from her husband Taika Waititi in which a lonely German boy must confront his blind nationalism when he discovers that his mom is hiding a Jewish girl. Oh, and he does that with the help of his imaginary friend, Hitler. Winstanley’s resume is chock full of projects championing people bucking the system. Her doc “Merata: How Mum Decolonized the Screen” brought the late Maori filmmaker Merata Mita, and her tireless campaign to give women and indigenous filmmakers opportunities, to the world’s attention this year. Her next film is “Thief of Sleep.”
Do you feel comedy is the best way to approach uncomfortable subjects?
I think it’s one way to do that. We have to allow people to feel comfortable with something that is often a tough subject and allowing someone to see...
Do you feel comedy is the best way to approach uncomfortable subjects?
I think it’s one way to do that. We have to allow people to feel comfortable with something that is often a tough subject and allowing someone to see...
- 9/7/2019
- by Carole Horst
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo is attached to star in Arezou, which was inspired by The Iranian National Ballet Company, one of the greatest artistic movements in the world that was disbanded in 1979 during the revolution.
The directorial debut of Sophia Kiapos, the film will be produced by Chelsea Winstanley, who is also a producer on Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit which will premiere on Sept. 8 at Tiff at the Princess of Wales Theater.
Arezou is a Persian tale set in Post-Revolution Tehran about a 12-year-old girl who discovers the secret world of an illegal, underground ballet group and ...
The directorial debut of Sophia Kiapos, the film will be produced by Chelsea Winstanley, who is also a producer on Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit which will premiere on Sept. 8 at Tiff at the Princess of Wales Theater.
Arezou is a Persian tale set in Post-Revolution Tehran about a 12-year-old girl who discovers the secret world of an illegal, underground ballet group and ...
Oscar nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo is attached to star in Arezou, which was inspired by The Iranian National Ballet Company, one of the greatest artistic movements in the world that was disbanded in 1979 during the revolution.
The directorial debut of Sophia Kiapos, the film will be produced by Chelsea Winstanley, who is also a producer on Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit which will premiere on Sept. 8 at Tiff at the Princess of Wales Theater.
Arezou is a Persian tale set in Post-Revolution Tehran about a 12-year-old girl who discovers the secret world of an illegal, underground ballet group and ...
The directorial debut of Sophia Kiapos, the film will be produced by Chelsea Winstanley, who is also a producer on Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit which will premiere on Sept. 8 at Tiff at the Princess of Wales Theater.
Arezou is a Persian tale set in Post-Revolution Tehran about a 12-year-old girl who discovers the secret world of an illegal, underground ballet group and ...
Australian actor Mojean Aria will star in the independent immigrant drama “Thief of Sleep” with filming planned for Scotland in February.
Producers include “Jojo Rabbit’s” Chelsea Winstanley and “Beasts of No Nations” executive producer Tommee May through her Come What May Productions.
“Thief of Sleep” will be directed by Darwin Serink from a script he wrote with playwright Stuart Thomas. Serink made the short film “Aban + Khorshid,” which won the Lgbtq Emerging Filmmaker Showcase during the Cannes Film Festival. Aria starred in the short.
Winstanley’s producing credits also include “What We Do in the Shadows,” directed by her spouse Taika Waititi, and “Merata.”
Aria won the Heath Ledger Scholarship Award and starred as the young Jake Lamotta in “The Bronx Bull.” He will be seen next alongside Jason Momoa in “See,” the upcoming series launching on Apple TV+, written by creator Steven Knight, directed by Francis Lawrence and produced by Peter Chernin.
Producers include “Jojo Rabbit’s” Chelsea Winstanley and “Beasts of No Nations” executive producer Tommee May through her Come What May Productions.
“Thief of Sleep” will be directed by Darwin Serink from a script he wrote with playwright Stuart Thomas. Serink made the short film “Aban + Khorshid,” which won the Lgbtq Emerging Filmmaker Showcase during the Cannes Film Festival. Aria starred in the short.
Winstanley’s producing credits also include “What We Do in the Shadows,” directed by her spouse Taika Waititi, and “Merata.”
Aria won the Heath Ledger Scholarship Award and starred as the young Jake Lamotta in “The Bronx Bull.” He will be seen next alongside Jason Momoa in “See,” the upcoming series launching on Apple TV+, written by creator Steven Knight, directed by Francis Lawrence and produced by Peter Chernin.
- 8/15/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The teaser trailer for Taika Waititi’s latest film Jojo Rabbit has been released by Fox Searchlight. (You can check it out above as well as the new poster art below!) The film stars Roman Griffin Davis, is written/directed by Waititi, and is scheduled to be in theaters on October 18, 2019.
Writer/director Taika Waititi, brings his signature style of humor and pathos to his latest film, Jojo Rabbit, a World War II satire that follows a lonely German boy (Roman Griffin Davis as JoJo) whose world view is turned upside down when he discovers his single mother (Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a young Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler (Taika Waititi), Jojo must confront his blind nationalism.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, War Director: Taika Waititi Writers: Taika Waititi (based on the novel by Christine Leunens) Producers: Carthew Neal, Taika Waititi,...
Writer/director Taika Waititi, brings his signature style of humor and pathos to his latest film, Jojo Rabbit, a World War II satire that follows a lonely German boy (Roman Griffin Davis as JoJo) whose world view is turned upside down when he discovers his single mother (Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a young Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler (Taika Waititi), Jojo must confront his blind nationalism.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, War Director: Taika Waititi Writers: Taika Waititi (based on the novel by Christine Leunens) Producers: Carthew Neal, Taika Waititi,...
- 7/25/2019
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
Taika Waititi’s next film, “Jojo Rabbit,” in which the director stars an imaginary version of Adolf Hitler, will be released by Fox Searchlight on Oct. 18, 2019.
The film is described as an “anti-hate satire” and stars Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Stephen Merchant and Alfie Allen.
“Jojo Rabbit” is Waititi’s follow-up to “Thor: Ragnarok” and “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” before that, and it’s based on the novel “Caging Skies” by Christine Leunens. [
Set during World War II, the story follows a lonely German boy (Griffin Davis) whose world view is turned upside down when he discovers that his single mother (Johansson) is hiding a young girl (McKenzie) in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic, imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler (Waititi), Jojo must confront his naive patriotism.
The film is described as an “anti-hate satire” and stars Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Stephen Merchant and Alfie Allen.
“Jojo Rabbit” is Waititi’s follow-up to “Thor: Ragnarok” and “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” before that, and it’s based on the novel “Caging Skies” by Christine Leunens. [
Set during World War II, the story follows a lonely German boy (Griffin Davis) whose world view is turned upside down when he discovers that his single mother (Johansson) is hiding a young girl (McKenzie) in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic, imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler (Waititi), Jojo must confront his naive patriotism.
- 5/13/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Cliff Curtis and Taika Waititi at the Nz premiere of ‘Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen’.
Cliff Curtis has more 50 screen credits as an actor but he is just as passionate about his role as a producer and executive producer – and he may soon direct his first feature.
“My interest in trying to understand my trade and craft took me behind the camera,” Curtis tells If on the line from his home in Rotorua. “When I got into producing I discovered there is a totally different aspect of my brain and how I think about things.
“With acting you are expected to play to the crowd and to be gregarious. I have that part to my nature but there is another part where I’m very private and I like to spend time on my own, isolated and within my head.
”As a producer you are there at the genesis of the project,...
Cliff Curtis has more 50 screen credits as an actor but he is just as passionate about his role as a producer and executive producer – and he may soon direct his first feature.
“My interest in trying to understand my trade and craft took me behind the camera,” Curtis tells If on the line from his home in Rotorua. “When I got into producing I discovered there is a totally different aspect of my brain and how I think about things.
“With acting you are expected to play to the crowd and to be gregarious. I have that part to my nature but there is another part where I’m very private and I like to spend time on my own, isolated and within my head.
”As a producer you are there at the genesis of the project,...
- 2/28/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Looking Forward to the Next Mistakes — Summary of the 17th Edition of Berlinale Talents
The Talent Naama Bunimovitz at the Camera Studio. Foto/photo: © Peter Himsel, Berlinale 2019
In front of a full house, anti-Mafia author Roberto Saviano brought the 17th edition of Berlinale Talents to a successful close. Charlotte Rampling, Erika Lust, André Téchiné, Adina Pintilie, David Lowery, Sandra Hüller, Guy Nattiv, James Schamus, Joanna Hogg and 120 other guests discussed with 250 Talents and thousands of Berliners about making (wrong) choices and dealing with them productively.
One thing was clear: Mistakes happen and quitting is seldom the best option — you have to face personal and social challenges by finding your own artistic paths, or detours, and pursuing them with a passion.
For Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media Monika Grütters, who opened the screening of Nora Fingscheidt’s Competition entry Systemsprenger (System Crasher) in Hau Hebbel am Ufer, the...
The Talent Naama Bunimovitz at the Camera Studio. Foto/photo: © Peter Himsel, Berlinale 2019
In front of a full house, anti-Mafia author Roberto Saviano brought the 17th edition of Berlinale Talents to a successful close. Charlotte Rampling, Erika Lust, André Téchiné, Adina Pintilie, David Lowery, Sandra Hüller, Guy Nattiv, James Schamus, Joanna Hogg and 120 other guests discussed with 250 Talents and thousands of Berliners about making (wrong) choices and dealing with them productively.
One thing was clear: Mistakes happen and quitting is seldom the best option — you have to face personal and social challenges by finding your own artistic paths, or detours, and pursuing them with a passion.
For Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media Monika Grütters, who opened the screening of Nora Fingscheidt’s Competition entry Systemsprenger (System Crasher) in Hau Hebbel am Ufer, the...
- 2/20/2019
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
The emotionally powerful documentary “Merata: How Mum Decolonized the Screen,” which is screening at Berlinale, tells the intimate story of legendary Maori filmmaker Merata Mita, who helped to kick-start indigenous cinema from that corner of the world. Directed by her son, Hepi Mita, it’s also a personal journey through their family life, as Hepi explores how important and trailblazing his mother was in her field of work, and how her passion for the arts informed many aspects of her life, before she died in 2010. “It was daunting to be so intimate. On one hand I wanted to craft an honest and emotional portrayal, and on the other I wanted to protect myself and my family,” says Mita, who adds that “it’s a very delicate balance, especially when your perspective is so ingrained in the subject matter.”
The film showcases never-before-seen footage and offers up extremely open accounts of...
The film showcases never-before-seen footage and offers up extremely open accounts of...
- 2/13/2019
- by Nick Clement
- Variety Film + TV
“Dark” creators Baran bo Odar (left) and Jantje Friese (right), “Berlin Station” actress Emilia Schuele and actor Nikolai Kinski, and Michael Mueller, Mayor of Berlin, were among the guests at the Studio Babelsberg Night Friday at Berlin’s Soho House. Hosting the event were Studio Babelsberg’s president and CEO, Charlie Woebcken, and its COO, Christoph Fisser. Canada Goose was event partner.
Speaking about Babelsberg’s year ahead, Fisser said: “We are in talks for several international and German productions, including feature films and high-end drama series, like the third season of Netflix’s ‘Dark.'”
He added: “We hope that Germany’s film production support system will continue to improve in order to meet the demands of a variety of productions.”
Other guests included actresses Franka Potente, Lea van Acken, Antje Traue, Claudia Michelsen, Iris Berben, Heike Makatsch, Nora von Waldstaetten, Christiane Paul and Jessica Schwarz.
The actors present included Mark Waschke,...
Speaking about Babelsberg’s year ahead, Fisser said: “We are in talks for several international and German productions, including feature films and high-end drama series, like the third season of Netflix’s ‘Dark.'”
He added: “We hope that Germany’s film production support system will continue to improve in order to meet the demands of a variety of productions.”
Other guests included actresses Franka Potente, Lea van Acken, Antje Traue, Claudia Michelsen, Iris Berben, Heike Makatsch, Nora von Waldstaetten, Christiane Paul and Jessica Schwarz.
The actors present included Mark Waschke,...
- 2/10/2019
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
“Berlin for me seems incredibly glamorous,” says New Zealand producer Chelsea Winstanley, a festival and market regular, who began attending the festival as a Berlinale Talent Campus attendee (“I was a baby, they really took me up and supported me,” she recalls) and returned with Boy and What We Do in The Shadows, in 2010 and 2014, respectively, from director and partner Taika Waititi.
Winstanley packaged Waititi’s upcoming comedy Jojo Rabbit —in which the Thor: Ragnarok helmer also stars as Adolf Hitler — in Berlin. This year she returns with the documentary Merata: How Mum Decolonized The ...
Winstanley packaged Waititi’s upcoming comedy Jojo Rabbit —in which the Thor: Ragnarok helmer also stars as Adolf Hitler — in Berlin. This year she returns with the documentary Merata: How Mum Decolonized The ...
“Berlin for me seems incredibly glamorous,” says New Zealand producer Chelsea Winstanley, a festival and market regular, who began attending the festival as a Berlinale Talent Campus attendee (“I was a baby, they really took me up and supported me,” she recalls) and returned with Boy and What We Do in The Shadows, in 2010 and 2014, respectively, from director and partner Taika Waititi.
Winstanley packaged Waititi’s upcoming comedy Jojo Rabbit —in which the Thor: Ragnarok helmer also stars as Adolf Hitler — in Berlin. This year she returns with the documentary Merata: How Mum Decolonized The ...
Winstanley packaged Waititi’s upcoming comedy Jojo Rabbit —in which the Thor: Ragnarok helmer also stars as Adolf Hitler — in Berlin. This year she returns with the documentary Merata: How Mum Decolonized The ...
Ava DuVernay’s content distribution shop Array has acquired the documentary “Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen” out of the Sundance Film Festival.
Directed by her youngest son and archivist Hepi Mita, the film is a deeply intimate portrait of the New Zealand filmmaker — who became the first indigenous woman to write and direct a narrative feature in the 1970s. Mita became an essential voice for her underrepresented community (director Taika Waititi is a disciple) and served as a longtime advisor to the Sundance Institute.
Sold for an undisclosed amount, the film was produced by Chelsea Winstanley through her Arama Pictures. Array did not immediately comment on plans for a theatrical release, but Winstanley told Variety she was drawn to Array’s “event-based screenings.” Array took distribution territories including the United States, Canada and the U.K.
Array, which aims to promote work by women and people of color, previously...
Directed by her youngest son and archivist Hepi Mita, the film is a deeply intimate portrait of the New Zealand filmmaker — who became the first indigenous woman to write and direct a narrative feature in the 1970s. Mita became an essential voice for her underrepresented community (director Taika Waititi is a disciple) and served as a longtime advisor to the Sundance Institute.
Sold for an undisclosed amount, the film was produced by Chelsea Winstanley through her Arama Pictures. Array did not immediately comment on plans for a theatrical release, but Winstanley told Variety she was drawn to Array’s “event-based screenings.” Array took distribution territories including the United States, Canada and the U.K.
Array, which aims to promote work by women and people of color, previously...
- 1/29/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: You have to give Ava DuVernay credit for great timing today as the A Wrinkle in Time director’s Array acquired the Sundance Film Festival documentary Merata.
The pick-up by the film collective comes on the very same day that the Robert Redford founded fest announced the latest recipients of the annual Merata Mita Fellowship named in honor of the late Māori filmmaker.
The 20th feature film acquisition by the nine-year old Array, Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen spotlights the barrier smashing life and work of Mita as long time Sundance Institute advisor and activist became the first Indigenous woman in the world to direct a film on her own. An official Sff selection in the Documentary Premieres category, the never-seen-before-footage rich Merata debuted today in Park City and will have three more screenings this Sundance.
Gordon Bobb of the Del, Shaw, Moonves, Tanaka, Finkelstein & Lezcano law firm...
The pick-up by the film collective comes on the very same day that the Robert Redford founded fest announced the latest recipients of the annual Merata Mita Fellowship named in honor of the late Māori filmmaker.
The 20th feature film acquisition by the nine-year old Array, Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen spotlights the barrier smashing life and work of Mita as long time Sundance Institute advisor and activist became the first Indigenous woman in the world to direct a film on her own. An official Sff selection in the Documentary Premieres category, the never-seen-before-footage rich Merata debuted today in Park City and will have three more screenings this Sundance.
Gordon Bobb of the Del, Shaw, Moonves, Tanaka, Finkelstein & Lezcano law firm...
- 1/29/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen’
Kiwi director Heperi Mita’s debut feature Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen will have its international premiere at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, which runs from February 24 – January 3.
An intimate portrayal of pioneering filmmaker Merata Mita told through the eyes of her children, the documentary had its world premiere at the New Zealand International Film Festival in August.
Merata was the first Māori woman to write and direct a narrative feature with her 1988 film Mauri while her political films highlighted the injustices for Māori people during the 1980s.
She played a supporting character in her husband Geoff Murphy’s 1983 seminal feature Utu, the saga of a warrior who sets out for vengeance after British forces kill his people. She died in 2010, aged 68.
A film archivist, Heperi drew on the extensive film and television footage of his mother as well as on her own films...
Kiwi director Heperi Mita’s debut feature Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen will have its international premiere at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, which runs from February 24 – January 3.
An intimate portrayal of pioneering filmmaker Merata Mita told through the eyes of her children, the documentary had its world premiere at the New Zealand International Film Festival in August.
Merata was the first Māori woman to write and direct a narrative feature with her 1988 film Mauri while her political films highlighted the injustices for Māori people during the 1980s.
She played a supporting character in her husband Geoff Murphy’s 1983 seminal feature Utu, the saga of a warrior who sets out for vengeance after British forces kill his people. She died in 2010, aged 68.
A film archivist, Heperi drew on the extensive film and television footage of his mother as well as on her own films...
- 11/29/2018
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
“This one is so different, so weird and has this Python-esque style to it.”
Director Taika Waititi has revealed more details of his upcoming projects Jojo Rabbit and Bubbles.
Waititi told Screen at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival that the Fox Searchlight WW2 comedy Jojo Rabbit, which has three weeks of filming left in Prague, is inspired by the “great satires of the past like Doctor Strangelove or The Great Dictator”.
“There’s a message behind it, it’s very much an anti-war film, it’s got a real contemporary feel and contemporary sense of humour to it as well.
Director Taika Waititi has revealed more details of his upcoming projects Jojo Rabbit and Bubbles.
Waititi told Screen at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival that the Fox Searchlight WW2 comedy Jojo Rabbit, which has three weeks of filming left in Prague, is inspired by the “great satires of the past like Doctor Strangelove or The Great Dictator”.
“There’s a message behind it, it’s very much an anti-war film, it’s got a real contemporary feel and contemporary sense of humour to it as well.
- 7/2/2018
- by Orlando Parfitt
- ScreenDaily
“This one is so different, so weird and has this Python-esque style to it.”
Director Taika Waititi has revealed more details of his upcoming projects Jojo Rabbit and Bubbles.
Waititi told Screen at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival that the Fox Searchlight WW2 comedy Jojo Rabbit, which has three weeks of filming left in Prague, is inspired by the “great satires of the past like Doctor Strangelove or The Great Dictator”.
“There’s a message behind it, it’s very much an anti-war film, it’s got a real contemporary feel and contemporary sense of humour to it as well.
Director Taika Waititi has revealed more details of his upcoming projects Jojo Rabbit and Bubbles.
Waititi told Screen at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival that the Fox Searchlight WW2 comedy Jojo Rabbit, which has three weeks of filming left in Prague, is inspired by the “great satires of the past like Doctor Strangelove or The Great Dictator”.
“There’s a message behind it, it’s very much an anti-war film, it’s got a real contemporary feel and contemporary sense of humour to it as well.
- 7/2/2018
- by Orlando Parfitt
- ScreenDaily
Brit writer, director and actor Stephen Merchant has joined Taika Waititi’s starry WWII satire Jojo Rabbit as Gestapo agent ‘Captain Deertz’.
Merchant, who played Caliban in X-Men spinoff Logan and who was co-writer of Brit sitcom The Office, posted his casting on Instagram with the following message: ‘Here’s me trying to look German for my part in JoJo Rabbit, new satirical comedy from the wonderful @taikawaititi. @jojorabbitmovie‘:
Jojo Rabbit follows an awkward young German boy (Roman Griffin) raised by a single mother (Scarlett Johansson), and whose only ally is his imaginary best friend (Waititi), a version of Hitler. His naïve patriotism is tested when he meets a young girl (Thomasin McKenzie) who upends his world views, forcing him to face his biggest fears. Sam Rockwell plays the Nazi captain of the young boy’s Hitler Youth camp and Alfie Allen will play Finkel, second in command to Rockwell’s Captain Klenzendorf.
Merchant, who played Caliban in X-Men spinoff Logan and who was co-writer of Brit sitcom The Office, posted his casting on Instagram with the following message: ‘Here’s me trying to look German for my part in JoJo Rabbit, new satirical comedy from the wonderful @taikawaititi. @jojorabbitmovie‘:
Jojo Rabbit follows an awkward young German boy (Roman Griffin) raised by a single mother (Scarlett Johansson), and whose only ally is his imaginary best friend (Waititi), a version of Hitler. His naïve patriotism is tested when he meets a young girl (Thomasin McKenzie) who upends his world views, forcing him to face his biggest fears. Sam Rockwell plays the Nazi captain of the young boy’s Hitler Youth camp and Alfie Allen will play Finkel, second in command to Rockwell’s Captain Klenzendorf.
- 6/19/2018
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Actor and Thor: Ragnarok helmer Taika Waititi inserts himself into his latest directorial effort in a rather memorable way. Having done such double duty on his films including Hunt for the Wilderpeople and What We Do in the Shadows, he now is playing the role of the Man Who Wanted to Rule the World.
Waititi posted a photo on social media today of him in character as a version of Adolf Hitler. It shows the Fuhrer sitting at a dinner table with Scarlett Johansson — is he checking her out? — and Roman Griffin Davis, who plays a German boy in his imaginary friend Hitler’s army who discovers that his mother (Johansson) is hiding a Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in their home.
Oscar winner Sam Rockwell and Rebel Wilson co-star in the film, which Fox Searchlight will distribute.
Waititi, who fielded multiple offers after last year’s...
Waititi posted a photo on social media today of him in character as a version of Adolf Hitler. It shows the Fuhrer sitting at a dinner table with Scarlett Johansson — is he checking her out? — and Roman Griffin Davis, who plays a German boy in his imaginary friend Hitler’s army who discovers that his mother (Johansson) is hiding a Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in their home.
Oscar winner Sam Rockwell and Rebel Wilson co-star in the film, which Fox Searchlight will distribute.
Waititi, who fielded multiple offers after last year’s...
- 6/11/2018
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Disney is developing “Flora and Ulysses” for its streaming service, Luke Wilson’s “The S—heads” gets distribution and Taika Waititi’s “Jojo Rabbit” rounds out its cast.
Family Drama
Disney is in early development of a family drama based on Kate Dicamillo’s novel “Flora and Ulysses” for its upcoming Disney Dtc (direct-to-consumer) service, Variety has learned exclusively.
“Flora and Ulysses” centers on a cynical girl who spends her time reading comic books and a squirrel who is run over by the neighbor’s vacuum cleaner. The squirrel’s brush with death causes him to develop superpowers.
The book won the John Newbery Medal from the Association for Library Service to Children. Gil Netter is producing and Lena Khan will direct from a Brad Copeland adapted script. Sam Dickerman is the Disney exec.
The Disney-branded Dtc streaming service will launch in the latter...
Family Drama
Disney is in early development of a family drama based on Kate Dicamillo’s novel “Flora and Ulysses” for its upcoming Disney Dtc (direct-to-consumer) service, Variety has learned exclusively.
“Flora and Ulysses” centers on a cynical girl who spends her time reading comic books and a squirrel who is run over by the neighbor’s vacuum cleaner. The squirrel’s brush with death causes him to develop superpowers.
The book won the John Newbery Medal from the Association for Library Service to Children. Gil Netter is producing and Lena Khan will direct from a Brad Copeland adapted script. Sam Dickerman is the Disney exec.
The Disney-branded Dtc streaming service will launch in the latter...
- 6/1/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Thomasin McKenzie, newcomer Roman Griffin Davis star.
Fox Searchlight executives said on Thursday that production has begun in and around Prague in the Czech Republic on the Second World War satire Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi’s feature follow-up to global hit Thor: Ragnarok.
Scarlett Johansson stars with Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Thomasin McKenzie from Leave No Trace, newcomer Roman Griffin Davis in the lead role, and Waititi himself as Adolf Hitler.
Jojo Rabbit centres on a young German boy living with his single mother and his imaginary friend Hitler. The youngster’s views are...
Fox Searchlight executives said on Thursday that production has begun in and around Prague in the Czech Republic on the Second World War satire Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi’s feature follow-up to global hit Thor: Ragnarok.
Scarlett Johansson stars with Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Thomasin McKenzie from Leave No Trace, newcomer Roman Griffin Davis in the lead role, and Waititi himself as Adolf Hitler.
Jojo Rabbit centres on a young German boy living with his single mother and his imaginary friend Hitler. The youngster’s views are...
- 5/31/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Thomasin McKenzie is set to co-star opposite Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, and Rebel Wilson in Fox Searchlight’s Jojo Rabbit, written and directed by Thor: Ragnarok helmer Taika Waititi, who will also star in the film. Newcomer Roman Griffin has been tapped for the title role in this film which is currently in production.
The plot follows an awkward young German boy (Griffin) raised by a single mother (Johansson), and whose only ally is his imaginary friend Hitler (Waititi). His naïve patriotism is tested when he meets a young girl (McKenzie) who upends his worldviews, forcing him to face his biggest fears.
Waititi is producing the project with Carthew Neal and Chelsea Winstanley while Kevan Van Thompson will serve as executive producer.
McKenzie last appeared in the Sundance film, Leave No Trace, and will next be seen in the Justin Kurzel-directed feature True History of the Kelly Gang with Russell Crowe,...
The plot follows an awkward young German boy (Griffin) raised by a single mother (Johansson), and whose only ally is his imaginary friend Hitler (Waititi). His naïve patriotism is tested when he meets a young girl (McKenzie) who upends his worldviews, forcing him to face his biggest fears.
Waititi is producing the project with Carthew Neal and Chelsea Winstanley while Kevan Van Thompson will serve as executive producer.
McKenzie last appeared in the Sundance film, Leave No Trace, and will next be seen in the Justin Kurzel-directed feature True History of the Kelly Gang with Russell Crowe,...
- 5/31/2018
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
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