Gravitas Ventures has picked up the North American rights to The Year Between from writer-director Alex Heller. The film will receive a theatrical and VOD release starting March 3.
Heller stars in the film, along with J. Smith-Cameron, Wyatt Oleff, Emily Robinson, Kyanna Simone and Steve Buscemi.
The feature, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, is inspired by true events and follows Clemence Miller (Heller), a college sophomore who is forced to move back home after having a mental breakdown where she is faced with a surprising diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The rest of the synopsis reads: “Upon her jarring return to the Illinois suburbs, Clemence will have to learn how to live with her well-meaning but frustrated family and find balance in a world that seems hellbent on thwarting her.”
The filmmakers are partnering with the National Alliance on Mental Illness Chicago to create resources and dialogue about the...
Heller stars in the film, along with J. Smith-Cameron, Wyatt Oleff, Emily Robinson, Kyanna Simone and Steve Buscemi.
The feature, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, is inspired by true events and follows Clemence Miller (Heller), a college sophomore who is forced to move back home after having a mental breakdown where she is faced with a surprising diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The rest of the synopsis reads: “Upon her jarring return to the Illinois suburbs, Clemence will have to learn how to live with her well-meaning but frustrated family and find balance in a world that seems hellbent on thwarting her.”
The filmmakers are partnering with the National Alliance on Mental Illness Chicago to create resources and dialogue about the...
- 2/3/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Shout! Studios has acquired North American rights to Body Parts, a documentary that takes a critical look at the way Hollwood shoots sex scenes.
Kristy Guevara-Flanagan directed and Helen Hood Scheer produced the feature that “traces the evolution of ‘sex’ on-screen,” according to a release, “exposing the uncomfortable realities behind some of the most iconic scenes in cinema history and celebrating the bold creators leading the way for change.”
The documentary, which held its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in June, includes interviews with actors Jane Fonda, Rosanna Arquette, Rose McGowan, Emily Meade and Alexandra Billings, directors Karyn Kusama and Angela Robinson, and TV show creators David Simon and Joey Soloway. Those industry insiders “provide a nuanced look at how different bodies––sizes, abilities, races, genders, and sexualities––are seen on screen and how the mechanisms of filmmaking center the male perspective. The film also follows the...
Kristy Guevara-Flanagan directed and Helen Hood Scheer produced the feature that “traces the evolution of ‘sex’ on-screen,” according to a release, “exposing the uncomfortable realities behind some of the most iconic scenes in cinema history and celebrating the bold creators leading the way for change.”
The documentary, which held its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in June, includes interviews with actors Jane Fonda, Rosanna Arquette, Rose McGowan, Emily Meade and Alexandra Billings, directors Karyn Kusama and Angela Robinson, and TV show creators David Simon and Joey Soloway. Those industry insiders “provide a nuanced look at how different bodies––sizes, abilities, races, genders, and sexualities––are seen on screen and how the mechanisms of filmmaking center the male perspective. The film also follows the...
- 11/29/2022
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Abigail Disney has shut down Fork Films, the documentary and feature film company behind “Crip Camp,” “One Child Nation” and “The Tale,” a drama about sexual abuse that starred Laura Dern.
As part of the closure, fewer than 10 positions have been eliminated. Abigail, a filmmaker and philanthropist, is also the granddaughter of Roy Disney, the co-founder of The Walt Disney Company.
A spokesperson for Fork Films said the staff was notified of the closure in February, and have been working to wind down the company by Sept. 30, 2022. Disney’s most recent film, “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales,” which she co-directed with Kathleen Hughes, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and was recently released digitally. The film examines the issue of economic inequality and ballooning CEO compensation packages. The movie made headlines as Disney drilled down on the employment and union practices at the theme parks run by The Walt Disney Company.
As part of the closure, fewer than 10 positions have been eliminated. Abigail, a filmmaker and philanthropist, is also the granddaughter of Roy Disney, the co-founder of The Walt Disney Company.
A spokesperson for Fork Films said the staff was notified of the closure in February, and have been working to wind down the company by Sept. 30, 2022. Disney’s most recent film, “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales,” which she co-directed with Kathleen Hughes, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and was recently released digitally. The film examines the issue of economic inequality and ballooning CEO compensation packages. The movie made headlines as Disney drilled down on the employment and union practices at the theme parks run by The Walt Disney Company.
- 10/3/2022
- by Brent Lang and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
MetFilm Sales has acquired worldwide rights for filmmaker Kristy Guevara-Flanagan’s feature documentary “Body Parts” ahead of its world premiere Sunday in Tribeca Film Festival’s Spotlight section.
The pic shows the evolution of desire and sex on screen from a female perspective, “allowing women to reclaim the parts of themselves that have been objectified and exploited for decades,” according to a statement. It uncovers the processes involved in creating intimacy for mainstream American film and television, the toll these scenes exact on those directly involved, and the impact on women and girls in the real world.
The documentary features candid interviews with actors and creators who are advocating for real change, including Jane Fonda, Rosanna Arquette, Joey Soloway, Angela Robinson, Karyn Kusama, Rose McGowan, Alexandra Billings, Emily Meade and David Simon.
It highlights the voices of women like Sarah Scott and Sarah Tither-Kaplan who spoke out against abusive behavior on their sets,...
The pic shows the evolution of desire and sex on screen from a female perspective, “allowing women to reclaim the parts of themselves that have been objectified and exploited for decades,” according to a statement. It uncovers the processes involved in creating intimacy for mainstream American film and television, the toll these scenes exact on those directly involved, and the impact on women and girls in the real world.
The documentary features candid interviews with actors and creators who are advocating for real change, including Jane Fonda, Rosanna Arquette, Joey Soloway, Angela Robinson, Karyn Kusama, Rose McGowan, Alexandra Billings, Emily Meade and David Simon.
It highlights the voices of women like Sarah Scott and Sarah Tither-Kaplan who spoke out against abusive behavior on their sets,...
- 6/10/2022
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Vertical Entertainment has acquired North American rights to Celine Held and Logan George’s feature directorial debut Topside, slating it for a day-and-date release on March 25.
The award-winning drama starring Held, Zhaila Farmer, Jared Abrahamson and musician Fatlip is inspired by true events. It follows five-year-old Little (Farmer) and her mother Nikki (Held), who live underneath the streets of New York City, in a community that has claimed long-abandoned subway tunnels as its home. When the pair are forced to flee above ground into a cold winter night, they are plunged into a challenging world of chaos and tragedy that makes their uncertain underground life seem idyllic by comparison.
Topside claimed SXSW’s Special Jury Award for Narrative Feature when it premiered there in 2020, subsequently going on to win the Venice Film Festival’s Mario Serandrei Award for Best Technical Achievement. Held and George penned the film, with Anthony Bregman,...
The award-winning drama starring Held, Zhaila Farmer, Jared Abrahamson and musician Fatlip is inspired by true events. It follows five-year-old Little (Farmer) and her mother Nikki (Held), who live underneath the streets of New York City, in a community that has claimed long-abandoned subway tunnels as its home. When the pair are forced to flee above ground into a cold winter night, they are plunged into a challenging world of chaos and tragedy that makes their uncertain underground life seem idyllic by comparison.
Topside claimed SXSW’s Special Jury Award for Narrative Feature when it premiered there in 2020, subsequently going on to win the Venice Film Festival’s Mario Serandrei Award for Best Technical Achievement. Held and George penned the film, with Anthony Bregman,...
- 2/9/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“Succession” star J. Smith-Cameron and Steve Buscemi are among the notables who signed on for “The Year Between,” a drama about mental illness that marks the feature writing and directing debut of comedian Alex Heller.
The movie, which wrapped production in Chicago late last month, revolves around Heller’s character Clemence, a young woman who drops out of college in her sophomore year after being diagnosed with mental illness. The story is based on Heller’s real-life experience in 2012. Heller is a former Sundance Institute Feature Film program fellow and an alumnus of Tribeca Film Institute.
“The Year Between” was produced by Level Forward, Full Spectrum Features and Chicago Media Angels. Producers are Amanda Phillips, Sonya Lunsford, Eugene Sun Park, Caterin Camargo-Alvarez, and Rachel Gould. Susanna Fogel, Adrienne Becker and HaJ are executive producers. Producers are shopping the film for possible theatrical distribution as well as to streamers.
” ‘The Year...
The movie, which wrapped production in Chicago late last month, revolves around Heller’s character Clemence, a young woman who drops out of college in her sophomore year after being diagnosed with mental illness. The story is based on Heller’s real-life experience in 2012. Heller is a former Sundance Institute Feature Film program fellow and an alumnus of Tribeca Film Institute.
“The Year Between” was produced by Level Forward, Full Spectrum Features and Chicago Media Angels. Producers are Amanda Phillips, Sonya Lunsford, Eugene Sun Park, Caterin Camargo-Alvarez, and Rachel Gould. Susanna Fogel, Adrienne Becker and HaJ are executive producers. Producers are shopping the film for possible theatrical distribution as well as to streamers.
” ‘The Year...
- 12/15/2021
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
“We own the ways in which we’ve messed up. Where we’ve learned of problems, we’ve tried to course-correct,” co-founder says
Abigail Disney is admitting that the company culture at Level Forward, the aspirational film and theater company she co-founded, has been laden with “missteps” after former employees of color spoke out about internal dissent in the company.
Disney’s admission comes in response to an article published in The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday that describes accounts from 15 current and former employees and business partners at Level Forward. Among the complaints are claims that staff of color were minimized, were not included in key meetings in the work place and that promises of equity in the company were not met compared to white employees.
“Yeah, we f—ed up,” Disney, the granddaughter of Walt Disney Company co-founder Roy Disney, told THR. “We’re due for this because we said things about ourselves.
Abigail Disney is admitting that the company culture at Level Forward, the aspirational film and theater company she co-founded, has been laden with “missteps” after former employees of color spoke out about internal dissent in the company.
Disney’s admission comes in response to an article published in The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday that describes accounts from 15 current and former employees and business partners at Level Forward. Among the complaints are claims that staff of color were minimized, were not included in key meetings in the work place and that promises of equity in the company were not met compared to white employees.
“Yeah, we f—ed up,” Disney, the granddaughter of Walt Disney Company co-founder Roy Disney, told THR. “We’re due for this because we said things about ourselves.
- 4/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The Queen's Gambit took over TV screens this past year, and now it's poised to take over the stage. On Monday, it was announced that the hit Netflix miniseries is being turned into a stage musical after Level Forward, the production company behind Alanis Morissette's Jagged Little Pill musical, won the rights to adapt Walter Tevis's 1983 novel that the series was based on.
"It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen's Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater," said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in a statement to Playbill. "Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story's inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon's journey and ultimate triumph. The story is a siren call amidst our contemporary...
"It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen's Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater," said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in a statement to Playbill. "Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story's inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon's journey and ultimate triumph. The story is a siren call amidst our contemporary...
- 3/9/2021
- by Kelsie Gibson
- Popsugar.com
Some ideas are too good to be constrained to merely one medium. Such is the case with Walter Tevis’s 1983 novel The Queen’s Gambit. After starting its life on the page, the story of chess prodigy Beth Harmon moved to television with a seven-episode Netflix adaptation starring the ethereal Anya Taylor-Joy.
Now that Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit is racking up awards (with a presumable Emmy sweep still to come) it’s time for the story to enter into yet another medium. Deadline reported today that entertainment company Level Forward has acquired the theatrical stage rights to the novel. That’s right: The Queen’s Gambit is about to be a play…and a musical no less.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and...
Now that Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit is racking up awards (with a presumable Emmy sweep still to come) it’s time for the story to enter into yet another medium. Deadline reported today that entertainment company Level Forward has acquired the theatrical stage rights to the novel. That’s right: The Queen’s Gambit is about to be a play…and a musical no less.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and...
- 3/8/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The Queen’s Gambit, the Walter Tevis novel recently adapted as the hit Netflix miniseries, could be headed to Broadway as a musical.
Entertainment company Level Forward has the acquired theatrical stage rights to the story of orphan-turned-chess prodigy Beth Harmon, and plans to develop the property into a stage musical.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and Producer Julia Dunetz in a statement. “Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story’s inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon’s journey and ultimate triumph. The story is a siren call amidst our contemporary struggles for gender and racial equity, and we’re looking forward to moving the project forward.
Entertainment company Level Forward has the acquired theatrical stage rights to the story of orphan-turned-chess prodigy Beth Harmon, and plans to develop the property into a stage musical.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and Producer Julia Dunetz in a statement. “Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story’s inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon’s journey and ultimate triumph. The story is a siren call amidst our contemporary struggles for gender and racial equity, and we’re looking forward to moving the project forward.
- 3/8/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Queen’s Gambit,” the story of a chess prodigy that was a streaming smash for Netflix, may become a musical. Level Forward, has acquired the theatrical stage rights to Walter Tevis’ novel “The Queen’s Gambit,” which served as the basis for the miniseries. Tevis also wrote “The Hustler” and “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” both of which became films and, in the case of “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” a stage show.
“The Queen’s Gambit” centers on Beth Harmon, an orphan who discovers she has a preternatural ability to move the pieces around a chess board and dominate the competition. The novel, published in 1983, follows her journey from Kentucky to Paris to Moscow, while she battles addiction and the prejudices of a male-centered world. Now, that journey will involve music, dance and singing, in addition to pawns and rooks.
The Netflix miniseries recently nabbed Golden Globes for Best Television Limited Series,...
“The Queen’s Gambit” centers on Beth Harmon, an orphan who discovers she has a preternatural ability to move the pieces around a chess board and dominate the competition. The novel, published in 1983, follows her journey from Kentucky to Paris to Moscow, while she battles addiction and the prejudices of a male-centered world. Now, that journey will involve music, dance and singing, in addition to pawns and rooks.
The Netflix miniseries recently nabbed Golden Globes for Best Television Limited Series,...
- 3/8/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
“The Queen’s Gambit” is being adapted as a musical for the theater stage, as the company Level Forward has acquired the rights to Walter Tevis’ book.
The acclaimed Netflix miniseries about the story of fictional chess prodigy Beth Harmon has become wildly popular.
But with no writer of director attached yet, Level Forward’s plans don’t appear to have the involvement of “The Queen’s Gambit” showrunners Scott Frank and Allan Scott or of star Anya Taylor-Joy
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz said in a statement. “Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story’s inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon’s journey and ultimate triumph.
The acclaimed Netflix miniseries about the story of fictional chess prodigy Beth Harmon has become wildly popular.
But with no writer of director attached yet, Level Forward’s plans don’t appear to have the involvement of “The Queen’s Gambit” showrunners Scott Frank and Allan Scott or of star Anya Taylor-Joy
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz said in a statement. “Told through a brave and fresh point of view, audiences are already sharing in the friendship and fortitude of the story’s inspiring women who energize and sustain Beth Harmon’s journey and ultimate triumph.
- 3/8/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The Queen’s Gambit may be headed to the stage.
Production company Level Forward has acquired theatrical stage rights to Walter Tevis’ novel about a chess prodigy, which is also the basis for Netflix’s limited series. The company — which produced the Tony-nominated revival of Oklahoma! and What the Constitution Means to Me — will develop a musical based on the book.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in ...
Production company Level Forward has acquired theatrical stage rights to Walter Tevis’ novel about a chess prodigy, which is also the basis for Netflix’s limited series. The company — which produced the Tony-nominated revival of Oklahoma! and What the Constitution Means to Me — will develop a musical based on the book.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in ...
The Queen’s Gambit may be headed to the stage.
Production company Level Forward has acquired theatrical stage rights to Walter Tevis’ novel about a chess prodigy, which is also the basis for Netflix’s limited series. The company — which produced the Tony-nominated revival of Oklahoma! and What the Constitution Means to Me — will develop a musical based on the book.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in ...
Production company Level Forward has acquired theatrical stage rights to Walter Tevis’ novel about a chess prodigy, which is also the basis for Netflix’s limited series. The company — which produced the Tony-nominated revival of Oklahoma! and What the Constitution Means to Me — will develop a musical based on the book.
“It is a privilege for Level Forward to lead the charge of bringing The Queen’s Gambit to the stage through the beloved and enduring craft of musical theater,” said Level Forward CEO Adrienne Becker and producer Julia Dunetz in ...
Exclusive: Discovery+ continues to ramp up it documentary slate. The fast-growing streamer has acquired rights to Rebel Heart, the Pedro Kos-directed documentary that premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. It will now get a theatrical release as well as a global bow on the streamer later this year.
Rebel Hearts centers on a trailblazing group of nuns in 1960s Los Angeles who stood up to the patriarchy of the Catholic Church. The sisters that ran the progressive Immaculate Heart College in L.A. fought for equality (they marched in Selma), their livelihoods and their own freedom against an all-powerful Cardinal who opposed their actions. Their acts of faith, defiance and activism turned the church upside down. The pic uses archival footage, animation and two decades of never-before-seen interviews gathered by the film’s producer Shawnee Isaac-Smith to tell the tale at the center of the film, a co-production...
Rebel Hearts centers on a trailblazing group of nuns in 1960s Los Angeles who stood up to the patriarchy of the Catholic Church. The sisters that ran the progressive Immaculate Heart College in L.A. fought for equality (they marched in Selma), their livelihoods and their own freedom against an all-powerful Cardinal who opposed their actions. Their acts of faith, defiance and activism turned the church upside down. The pic uses archival footage, animation and two decades of never-before-seen interviews gathered by the film’s producer Shawnee Isaac-Smith to tell the tale at the center of the film, a co-production...
- 3/3/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
IFC Films has acquired the North American rights to “Holler,” a coming-of-age drama starring Jessica Barden (“End of the F***ing World”) that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2020.
Nicole Riegel made her directorial debut on “Holler,” which also stars Gus Halper, Pamela Adlon, Becky Ann Baker and Austin Amelio and is executive produced by Paul Feig.
IFC Films plans to release “Holler” in June 2021. Here’s the synopsis:
Riegel also wrote the film, which centers on Barden as a young woman from a small Southern Ohio town where manufacturing and opportunities have tried up. After winning acceptance to college, she joins her older brother on a dangerous scrap metal crew seeking to pay her tuition. Together, they spend one brutal winter working the scrap yards during the day and stealing valuable metal from the aging factories at night.
The producers are Katie McNeill and Jamie Patricof of Hunting Lane Films,...
Nicole Riegel made her directorial debut on “Holler,” which also stars Gus Halper, Pamela Adlon, Becky Ann Baker and Austin Amelio and is executive produced by Paul Feig.
IFC Films plans to release “Holler” in June 2021. Here’s the synopsis:
Riegel also wrote the film, which centers on Barden as a young woman from a small Southern Ohio town where manufacturing and opportunities have tried up. After winning acceptance to college, she joins her older brother on a dangerous scrap metal crew seeking to pay her tuition. Together, they spend one brutal winter working the scrap yards during the day and stealing valuable metal from the aging factories at night.
The producers are Katie McNeill and Jamie Patricof of Hunting Lane Films,...
- 2/4/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
IFC Films has acquired “Holler,” a drama about a woman who joins a dangerous scrap metal crew in order to pay for her college education.
The deal is for North American right. IFC will release the film in June 2021. “Holler” received critical claim both for Nicole Riegel’s work behind the camera and for the lead performance of Jessica Barden. Variety’s Peter Debruge praised the movie’s grit, writing, “‘Holler’ is honest, which is not always what people want from movies, but it isn’t your typical poverty porn. Riegel avoids the melodramatic gimmicks that tellers of such working-class stories love to pull, trusting that audiences understand that the only happy ending — the only hopeful ending — is one that sees Ruth on her way out of Jackson.”
Riegel wrote the screenplay for the movie and is making her directorial debut. Barden starred in “End of the F*cking World...
The deal is for North American right. IFC will release the film in June 2021. “Holler” received critical claim both for Nicole Riegel’s work behind the camera and for the lead performance of Jessica Barden. Variety’s Peter Debruge praised the movie’s grit, writing, “‘Holler’ is honest, which is not always what people want from movies, but it isn’t your typical poverty porn. Riegel avoids the melodramatic gimmicks that tellers of such working-class stories love to pull, trusting that audiences understand that the only happy ending — the only hopeful ending — is one that sees Ruth on her way out of Jackson.”
Riegel wrote the screenplay for the movie and is making her directorial debut. Barden starred in “End of the F*cking World...
- 2/4/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Hart declared that he plans to become a media mogul. Richard Plepler promised that the premium subscription TV business is not a zero-sum game. Dana Walden explained why she took the big TV gig at Disney. Dawn Ostroff spoke about the humbling process of learning how to produce for digital platforms after a long career in TV.
Conversations with those industry A-listers and dozens more have been featured on “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast that is marking its 100th installment with a retrospective episode featuring highlights from the past two years. The interview-driven podcast that debuted on April 3, 2018, is hosted by Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton and Variety co-editor-in-chief Andrew Wallenstein.
“Strictly Business” casts a wide net across media and entertainment, sitting down with power players and specialists who can provide insights about seismic shifts in the marketplace amid the haze of disruption and consolidation.
Interview subjects have...
Conversations with those industry A-listers and dozens more have been featured on “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast that is marking its 100th installment with a retrospective episode featuring highlights from the past two years. The interview-driven podcast that debuted on April 3, 2018, is hosted by Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton and Variety co-editor-in-chief Andrew Wallenstein.
“Strictly Business” casts a wide net across media and entertainment, sitting down with power players and specialists who can provide insights about seismic shifts in the marketplace amid the haze of disruption and consolidation.
Interview subjects have...
- 3/4/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Stephanie Allain has inked a first-look deal with Warner Horizon Scripted Television, fresh off her recent gig producing the Oscars.
The multi-year agreement marks Allain’s first TV studio deal. Under the pact, Allain will develop new scripted programming for cable and broadcast networks, as well as streaming services, via the various divisions of the Warner Bros. Television Group.
Allain just made history as the first African American woman to produce the Academy Awards in the awards show’s history. She is credited with helping launch the careers of directors John Singleton, Robert Rodriguez, Craig Brewer, Sanaa Hamri and Justin Simien. In 2003, she founded her female-led production banner Homegrown Pictures, and has gone on to produce around a dozen features inclduing “Dear White People,” “Hustle & Flow,” “Peeples” “Beyond The Lights,” “Burning Sands” and most recently “Juanita.”
In 2019, Homegrown closed an overall deal with Adrienne Becker and Abigail Disney’s...
The multi-year agreement marks Allain’s first TV studio deal. Under the pact, Allain will develop new scripted programming for cable and broadcast networks, as well as streaming services, via the various divisions of the Warner Bros. Television Group.
Allain just made history as the first African American woman to produce the Academy Awards in the awards show’s history. She is credited with helping launch the careers of directors John Singleton, Robert Rodriguez, Craig Brewer, Sanaa Hamri and Justin Simien. In 2003, she founded her female-led production banner Homegrown Pictures, and has gone on to produce around a dozen features inclduing “Dear White People,” “Hustle & Flow,” “Peeples” “Beyond The Lights,” “Burning Sands” and most recently “Juanita.”
In 2019, Homegrown closed an overall deal with Adrienne Becker and Abigail Disney’s...
- 2/11/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Indie drama “Show Me What You Got” has been selected for screening via the Level Forward/Screen Forward network that aims to expand theatrical distribution for up-and-coming filmmakers.
“Show Me What You Got” will screen in the second quarter of this year in the theaters that are participating in the Screen Forward venture launched last week by Level Forward, the content production venture headed by Abigail Disney and Adrienne Becker. Screen Forward theater partners at present are Denver Film in Denver, Colo., Loft Cinema in Tucscon, Ariz., Montclair Film in Montclair, N.J., and Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville, N.Y.
The Screen Forward venture aims to raise the profile of work from up-and-coming filmmakers from historically marginalized communities. Theaters that participate in the screenings agree to donate 10% of the proceeds to a local non-profit organization.
“Show Me,” helmed by Svetlana Cvetko, revolves around three free-spirited twentysomethings in Los Angeles.
“Show Me What You Got” will screen in the second quarter of this year in the theaters that are participating in the Screen Forward venture launched last week by Level Forward, the content production venture headed by Abigail Disney and Adrienne Becker. Screen Forward theater partners at present are Denver Film in Denver, Colo., Loft Cinema in Tucscon, Ariz., Montclair Film in Montclair, N.J., and Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville, N.Y.
The Screen Forward venture aims to raise the profile of work from up-and-coming filmmakers from historically marginalized communities. Theaters that participate in the screenings agree to donate 10% of the proceeds to a local non-profit organization.
“Show Me,” helmed by Svetlana Cvetko, revolves around three free-spirited twentysomethings in Los Angeles.
- 1/16/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Content venture Level Forward, founded by Abigail Disney and Adrienne Becker, has partnered with four independent movie theaters to launch Level Forward/Screen Forward (“Lf/Sf”) to implement stronger relationships between independent filmmakers and diverse communities.
The goal of the new venture is to support films made by and for diverse communities that have been previously under-represented. Lf/Sf wants to give community theaters more access to diverse content as well as give filmmakers a place to showcase their work. Filmmakers will work directly with independent cinemas.
Additionally, Lf/Sf partners have agreed to direct 10% of net proceeds to local non-profits. The network will also be accessible to films from other producers and financiers, and high-quality films will be the focus that have been produced with meaningful intentions in mind, such as gender and racial equity.
Also Read: Former Weinstein Bidders Set Content Slate, Producer Deals, Equity Vision for New...
The goal of the new venture is to support films made by and for diverse communities that have been previously under-represented. Lf/Sf wants to give community theaters more access to diverse content as well as give filmmakers a place to showcase their work. Filmmakers will work directly with independent cinemas.
Additionally, Lf/Sf partners have agreed to direct 10% of net proceeds to local non-profits. The network will also be accessible to films from other producers and financiers, and high-quality films will be the focus that have been produced with meaningful intentions in mind, such as gender and racial equity.
Also Read: Former Weinstein Bidders Set Content Slate, Producer Deals, Equity Vision for New...
- 1/8/2020
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Filmmaker and philanthropist Abigail Disney and industry veteran Adrienne Becker joined forces to launch the content studio Level Forward in early 2018 after they’d briefly paired up in an effort to buy Weinstein Co. out of the ashes of bankruptcy.
Disney and Becker came to realize that they were kindred spirits in their interest in social justice and advancing the showbiz careers of women and people of color. Level Forward is designed to provide creative support and nontraditional financing for projects from creators who are willing to trade big upfront fees for a larger share of equity and more creative freedom.
Disney and Becker detail their growing portfolio and company ethos on the latest installment of “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast featuring conversations with industry leaders about the business of media and entertainment.
Disney, who is the granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy O. Disney, also discusses her...
Disney and Becker came to realize that they were kindred spirits in their interest in social justice and advancing the showbiz careers of women and people of color. Level Forward is designed to provide creative support and nontraditional financing for projects from creators who are willing to trade big upfront fees for a larger share of equity and more creative freedom.
Disney and Becker detail their growing portfolio and company ethos on the latest installment of “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast featuring conversations with industry leaders about the business of media and entertainment.
Disney, who is the granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy O. Disney, also discusses her...
- 10/9/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Husband-and-wife team Celine Held and Logan George wrote, directed feature debut.
Endeavor Content will handle worldwide sales on the New York-set drama Topside, produced by Likely Story, K Period Media, Level Forward and Red Crown Productions.
Husband-and-wife team Celine Held and Logan George wrote and directed the feature debut, about a five year-old girl and her mother who live under the streets of New York City and are forced to go above ground when they are evicted by police.
Topside shot recently in New York City and Rochester, New York, and is being produced by Anthony Bregman and Peter Cron of Likely Story,...
Endeavor Content will handle worldwide sales on the New York-set drama Topside, produced by Likely Story, K Period Media, Level Forward and Red Crown Productions.
Husband-and-wife team Celine Held and Logan George wrote and directed the feature debut, about a five year-old girl and her mother who live under the streets of New York City and are forced to go above ground when they are evicted by police.
Topside shot recently in New York City and Rochester, New York, and is being produced by Anthony Bregman and Peter Cron of Likely Story,...
- 7/18/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Rotten Apples, a film and TV search engine that lists stars and filmmakers accused of sexual harassment and assault, has been upgraded with features that will allow fans to donate to victims and support non-profit organizations.
The site, which sprung up as part of the #MeToo movement, using an investment from the Abigail Disney-backed company Level Forward, is relaunching, with a wider focus to help fans become more aware of the alleged misdeeds of top filmmakers. Even if viewers continue to watch the films, the site wants audiences to support groups that are working to combat abuses of power. Rotten Apples says it is fostering an environment for “ethical media consumption.” The name is a play on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
For example, when searching “Manchester by the Sea,” users were previously alerted to accusations against Oscar-winner Casey Affleck (which were settled out of court). With Rotten Apples 2.0, the...
The site, which sprung up as part of the #MeToo movement, using an investment from the Abigail Disney-backed company Level Forward, is relaunching, with a wider focus to help fans become more aware of the alleged misdeeds of top filmmakers. Even if viewers continue to watch the films, the site wants audiences to support groups that are working to combat abuses of power. Rotten Apples says it is fostering an environment for “ethical media consumption.” The name is a play on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
For example, when searching “Manchester by the Sea,” users were previously alerted to accusations against Oscar-winner Casey Affleck (which were settled out of court). With Rotten Apples 2.0, the...
- 2/7/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The much-anticipated staging of Oklahoma! will be Broadway’s first partner in Hollywood’s Gun Neutral Initiative: For every visible gun that is seen onstage in Oklahoma!, a donation will be made to organizations “committed to helping solve the gun violence crisis by destroying firearms that should be out of circulation.”
Oklahoma!’s participation in the campaign is expected to be announced today by the show’s lead producer Eva Price at a Sundance Film Festival panel titled “See Change: The Call for Gun Neutral Entertainment.”
“We are honored and proud that Oklahoma! will be leading the way on Broadway by partnering with the Gun Neutral Initiative,” Price said in a statement provided to Deadline prior to the panel. “Just because a particular story calls for the presence of a particular weapon, that doesn’t mean that we have to remain complacent in America’s gun-violence epidemic. Helping to...
Oklahoma!’s participation in the campaign is expected to be announced today by the show’s lead producer Eva Price at a Sundance Film Festival panel titled “See Change: The Call for Gun Neutral Entertainment.”
“We are honored and proud that Oklahoma! will be leading the way on Broadway by partnering with the Gun Neutral Initiative,” Price said in a statement provided to Deadline prior to the panel. “Just because a particular story calls for the presence of a particular weapon, that doesn’t mean that we have to remain complacent in America’s gun-violence epidemic. Helping to...
- 1/28/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Production company Level Forward has set what it calls a gun-neutral initiative to offset the portrayal of guns on screens with a commitment to destroy 10 firearms for every one that is featured in any of its productions.
The initiative kicks off with Killer Films’ “American Woman,” which marks the feature directorial debut of “Mad Men” alum Semi Chellas. For the 69 guns featured on screen in that pic, 690 will be destroyed, Level Forward founders Adrienne Becker and Abigail Disney announced Thursday. The initiative also calls for Level Forward to invest in arts programs for youths in communities affected by gun violence.
The goal is to help counteract what is often seen as the glamorization of guns in popular entertainment. Level Forward will make the gun neutral initiative a line item in every production. The company pledges to invest $15 per prop gun used in the production.
Level Forward has teamed with the...
The initiative kicks off with Killer Films’ “American Woman,” which marks the feature directorial debut of “Mad Men” alum Semi Chellas. For the 69 guns featured on screen in that pic, 690 will be destroyed, Level Forward founders Adrienne Becker and Abigail Disney announced Thursday. The initiative also calls for Level Forward to invest in arts programs for youths in communities affected by gun violence.
The goal is to help counteract what is often seen as the glamorization of guns in popular entertainment. Level Forward will make the gun neutral initiative a line item in every production. The company pledges to invest $15 per prop gun used in the production.
Level Forward has teamed with the...
- 10/25/2018
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Abigail Disney described how her outrage over Harvey Weinstein’s conduct prompted her to launch a bid for The Weinstein Co. and ultimately led to the creation of a new type of entertainment company that blends creativity with a broader social mission.
The documentary filmmaker and granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy O. Disney offered a blistering critique of Weinstein and of billionaire Ron Burkle, who backed a bid for The Weinstein Co. that was fronted by a Maria Contreras-Sweet.
Referring more broadly to the industry, Disney remarked, “If raping and pillaging is part of your business plan, it’s probably how you treat everything else in your world.”
In a video conference call with a handful of journalists, Disney said she was “filled with rage” by the allegations of rape and sexual assault against the once-powerful Hollywood producer. She said her anger motivated her to back a bid to take over the studio.
The documentary filmmaker and granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy O. Disney offered a blistering critique of Weinstein and of billionaire Ron Burkle, who backed a bid for The Weinstein Co. that was fronted by a Maria Contreras-Sweet.
Referring more broadly to the industry, Disney remarked, “If raping and pillaging is part of your business plan, it’s probably how you treat everything else in your world.”
In a video conference call with a handful of journalists, Disney said she was “filled with rage” by the allegations of rape and sexual assault against the once-powerful Hollywood producer. She said her anger motivated her to back a bid to take over the studio.
- 6/27/2018
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
Content venture Level Forward was born out of anger and frustration during the Weinstein Co. sale process earlier this year.
Adrienne Becker, CEO of Killer Content (parent of Killer Films), and filmmaker/investor Abigail Disney joined forces in January to launch a female-led studio that aims to redistribute some of its proceeds to non-profit orgs fighting gender discrimination and sexual harassment, among other causes.
Killer Content and Abigail Disney, who is the granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy Disney, had been pursuing the acquisition of Weinstein Co. assets in the hopes of using them as the engine of a company that would support female-empowerment organizations and initiatives — a reaction to the horrifying allegations of sexual assault leveled at Harvey Weinstein. But when the jockeying over the sale of the tarnished company became too intense, Killer Content and Disney decided to go it alone.
Six months later, Disney and Becker...
Adrienne Becker, CEO of Killer Content (parent of Killer Films), and filmmaker/investor Abigail Disney joined forces in January to launch a female-led studio that aims to redistribute some of its proceeds to non-profit orgs fighting gender discrimination and sexual harassment, among other causes.
Killer Content and Abigail Disney, who is the granddaughter of Walt Disney Co. co-founder Roy Disney, had been pursuing the acquisition of Weinstein Co. assets in the hopes of using them as the engine of a company that would support female-empowerment organizations and initiatives — a reaction to the horrifying allegations of sexual assault leveled at Harvey Weinstein. But when the jockeying over the sale of the tarnished company became too intense, Killer Content and Disney decided to go it alone.
Six months later, Disney and Becker...
- 6/27/2018
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Abigail Disney is determined to exile "raping and pillaging" from Hollywood by backing Level Forward, a female-led company that will focus on producing a wide array of content from women and people of color, among other initiatives.
On Wednesday, Disney and her partner, Adrienne Becker, briefed reporters for the first time on their plans for Level Forward, which they launched in January. It turns out the company is a key investor in Rotten Apples, a website that serves as a database for consumers interested in learning whether anyone associated with a movie or TV show has been involved in ...
On Wednesday, Disney and her partner, Adrienne Becker, briefed reporters for the first time on their plans for Level Forward, which they launched in January. It turns out the company is a key investor in Rotten Apples, a website that serves as a database for consumers interested in learning whether anyone associated with a movie or TV show has been involved in ...
- 6/27/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Abigail Disney is determined to exile "raping and pillaging" from Hollywood by backing Level Forward, a female-led company that will focus on producing a wide array of content from women and people of color, among other initiatives.
On Wednesday, Disney and her partner, Adrienne Becker, briefed reporters for the first time on their plans for Level Forward, which they launched in January. It turns out the company is a key investor in Rotten Apples, a website that serves as a database for consumers interested in learning whether anyone associated with a movie or TV show has been involved in ...
On Wednesday, Disney and her partner, Adrienne Becker, briefed reporters for the first time on their plans for Level Forward, which they launched in January. It turns out the company is a key investor in Rotten Apples, a website that serves as a database for consumers interested in learning whether anyone associated with a movie or TV show has been involved in ...
- 6/27/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Event offers rare opportunities for women filmmakers to connect with funders for their projectsCourtesy of The Feminist WireFirst-of-its-kind undertaking by a municipal agency to address gender inequity in film finance.
On Tuesday, April 17, New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (Mome) Commissioner Julie Menin will host the 2018 Mome Finance Lab, an afternoon of collaboration and networking in support of film projects by, for or about women. The event will provide over thirty women filmmakers with an unprecedented opportunity to pitch multiple financiers for investment in their projects. The aim of the event is to cultivate films in New York City made by, for, and about women. Now in its second year, the Mome Finance Lab seeks to address the persistent gender gap in the filmed entertainment industry.
“Through the Mome Finance Lab, our agency plays the role of ‘connector’ between women filmmakers and the financial backers that can...
On Tuesday, April 17, New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (Mome) Commissioner Julie Menin will host the 2018 Mome Finance Lab, an afternoon of collaboration and networking in support of film projects by, for or about women. The event will provide over thirty women filmmakers with an unprecedented opportunity to pitch multiple financiers for investment in their projects. The aim of the event is to cultivate films in New York City made by, for, and about women. Now in its second year, the Mome Finance Lab seeks to address the persistent gender gap in the filmed entertainment industry.
“Through the Mome Finance Lab, our agency plays the role of ‘connector’ between women filmmakers and the financial backers that can...
- 4/14/2018
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Executive will work across all aspects of Megan Ellison’s company.
Adrienne Becker arrives from Killer Content where she served as CEO for the last three years.
Becker will lead Annapurna’s business strategy across Annapurna Pictures, Annapurna TV and Annapurna Interactive. She reports to founder and CEO Megan Ellison.
At Killer, Becker set up the development apparatus and broadened the company into a creator of television and digital media and added the Killer Films Media brand and digital arm.
She also secured corporate investment and raised funds to build a library of owned IP under Killer Impact, some of which she brings to Annapurna.
Becker will remain on the Killer Board and oversee the transition to a new CEO to be named in the coming weeks.
“Annapurna is a stand-out, unique enterprise that persists, reinvents, and innovates, towards lasting value and impact,” Becker said. “I am excited and humbled to be joining the very talented team assembled...
Adrienne Becker arrives from Killer Content where she served as CEO for the last three years.
Becker will lead Annapurna’s business strategy across Annapurna Pictures, Annapurna TV and Annapurna Interactive. She reports to founder and CEO Megan Ellison.
At Killer, Becker set up the development apparatus and broadened the company into a creator of television and digital media and added the Killer Films Media brand and digital arm.
She also secured corporate investment and raised funds to build a library of owned IP under Killer Impact, some of which she brings to Annapurna.
Becker will remain on the Killer Board and oversee the transition to a new CEO to be named in the coming weeks.
“Annapurna is a stand-out, unique enterprise that persists, reinvents, and innovates, towards lasting value and impact,” Becker said. “I am excited and humbled to be joining the very talented team assembled...
- 3/29/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Killer Content CEO Adrienne Becker is joining Annapurna to be its Chief Operating Officer, the latest exec movie at Megan Ellison’s growing operation. Becker will be tasked with leading the company's business strategy across Annapurna Pictures, Annapurna TV and Annapurna Interactive. She will report to Ellison. In May 2014, Becker’s Glass Elevator Media merged with Christine Vachon and Pam Koffler’s indie shingle Killer Films to creat Killer Content, which added TV and…...
- 3/29/2017
- Deadline TV
Killer Content CEO Adrienne Becker is joining Annapurna to be its Chief Operating Officer, the latest exec movie at Megan Ellison’s growing operation. Becker will be tasked with leading the company's business strategy across Annapurna Pictures, Annapurna TV and Annapurna Interactive. She will report to Ellison. In May 2014, Becker’s Glass Elevator Media merged with Christine Vachon and Pam Koffler’s indie shingle Killer Films to creat Killer Content, which added TV and…...
- 3/29/2017
- Deadline
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