The Find Facts Here Blog

‘I think he’s a genius,’ Hutcherson told MTV News hours before Ross departed franchise.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Kara Warner

Josh Hutcherson
Photo: FilmMagic

Before it was confirmed that rumors were at a fever pitch, Hutcherson didn’t want to imagine the second film without Ross there to direct it. “I have talked to him. I think Gary’s my guy,” Hutcherson told MTV News at the “Detention” junket.

With Ross’ fate now decided, the young actor only had high praise for the man who directed the blockbuster first film in the series, “The Hunger Games.” “I think he’s a genius. He’s an incredible writer and director, so I’m excited to see kind of what he ends up coming up with for the second one,” he said, adding that he had no other names he wanted to toss in the directorial ring if and when Ross shouldn’t return.

“No, I won’t let myself [say] someone else,” he added. “Not until they tell me it has to be someone else. Gary’s my guy 100 percent.” Well, now might be the time for Hutcherson to start brainstorming new directors he might want to work with once production kicks off.

In a statement released late Monday when the news broke, Ross addressed the speculation and commended the film’s studio, Lionsgate, for giving him the freedom to make the film he wanted to. “Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct ‘Catching Fire,’ ” Ross said in his statement. “As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule.

“I loved making ‘The Hunger Games’ — it was the happiest experience of my professional life,” the statement continued.

“Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: They empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results. And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.

“I also cannot say enough about the people I worked with: Producer Nina Jacobson, a great collaborator and a true friend; the brilliant Suzanne Collins, who entrusted us with her most amazing and important story; the gifted and remarkable Jennifer Lawrence, whose performance exceeded my wildest expectations, and the rest of the incredible cast, whom I am proud to call my friends,” he continued. “To the fans I want to say thank you for your support your faith, your enthusiasm and your trust. Hard as this may be to understand, I am trying to keep that trust with you. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful experience.”

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Hunger Games.”

For young Hollywood news, fashion and “Twilight” updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: ‘Hunger Games’ Director Gary Ross

Related Photos

• Inside ‘The Hunger Games’ Capitol

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682872/hunger-games-josh-hutcherson-gary-ross.jhtml

Natassia Malthe Nelly Furtado Nichole Robinson

Tags: Comments Off

Just when we thought we couldn’t possibly be anymore excited for Glee’s return, we are treated with THIS little gem!!!!
As we told you earlier this week, the cast of Glee will be throwing on their platforms and gold chains for this upcoming Tuesday’s episode, Saturday Night Glee-ver!!
Amber Riley takes the crown as the disco queen [...]

Source: http://perezhilton.com/2012-04-12-amber-riley-exclusive-sings-disco-inferno-on-glee

Maria Sharapova Mariah Carey Mariah OBrien

Tags: Comments Off

‘Twilight,’ ‘Spider-Man,’ ‘Iron Man’ among other high-profile series that changed directors along the way.
By Josh Wigler

Gary Ross
Photo: WireImage

“The Hunger Games” franchise, just like the fictional games themselves (minus all the death and bloodshed), has lost a much beloved player in director Gary Ross, who has decided not to return for the developing sequel, “Catching Fire.”

Persistent rumors that Ross’ days in Panem were numbered concluded with the director’s official departure Tuesday night, leaving the continuing tales of Katniss, Peeta and Gale without a visionary to guide them for the time being.

Though Ross’ decision is a blow for “Hunger Games” enthusiasts everywhere — yours truly included — it’s certainly not the first time that a director has stunned fans by leaving a high-profile franchise at an unexpected time. From your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man to the Boy Who Lived, here are five other filmmakers who parted ways with beloved franchises.

Sam Raimi and “Spider-Man”
After three films — two widely adored and one critically panned — Sam Raimi’s days swinging alongside “Spider-Man” came to an end. In the midst of pre-production on a fourth Tobey Maguire-starring adventure, both Raimi and Maguire parted ways with Sony over creative differences. The result of their ousting: Sony rebooted the “Spider-Man” brand, with an all-new “Amazing” installment hitting theaters this summer from director Marc Webb and “The Social Network” co-star Andrew Garfield.

Jon Favreau and “Iron Man” Spidey isn’t the only big-screen Marvel superhero who lost a crucial member of his creative posse. Director Jon Favreau, who helmed the first two “Iron Man” films for Marvel Studios, said his goodbyes to Ol’ Shellhead in December 2010, opting to focus instead on another Disney property, “Magic Kingdom.” Just as Ross contends there’s no bad blood between him and Lionsgate, Favreau and the remaining “Iron Man” players appear to have left on good terms; indeed, the director appeared alongside Robert Downey Jr. at the Hero Complex Film Festival last June for an onstage reunion and geek-out. Tony Stark lives on even without Favreau, blasting off next summer for a brand-new mission under director Shane Black’s watchful eye.

Paul Greengrass and the “Bourne” series Following “Bourne Ultimatum,” the third film in the spy thriller series, two-time “Bourne” director Paul Greengrass walked away from the franchise to work on other films. Leading man Matt Damon left as well, out of loyalty to the director, leaving “Bourne” producers in a lurch. How do you make a Jason Bourne movie without Jason Bourne? You make “The Bourne Legacy,” apparently. Longtime “Bourne” writer Tony Gilroy wrote the script and directed the latest installment, putting an all-new character played by Jeremy Renner in the hot seat this time around. With Renner in play, the door remains open for a future Damon-Greengrass “Bourne” return.

Catherine Hardwicke and “The Twilight Saga” Just as “The Hunger Games” lost Ross, so too did the “Twilight” series lose its original director. Catherine Hardwicke was the first filmmaker to bring the hotly anticipated love story of Edward Cullen and Bella Swan to life, but despite the success of that first film, Hardwicke decided not to direct “New Moon”, due to what she described as “timing” issues. Even without Hardwicke behind the lens, “Twilight” continued to do massive business at the box office with different directors for each film; Bill Condon is the only filmmaker to tackle multiple “Twilight” movies, closing the series out with this coming November’s “Breaking Dawn – Part 2.”

Chris Columbus and “Harry Potter” There would be no Hogwarts without J.K. Rowling, of course, but there would be no Hogwarts-at-the-movies without original “Harry Potter” director Chris Columbus. He helmed the first two “Potter” films with wonderful whimsy, but that tone would not have fit with future movies in the franchise as Harry’s world grows progressively darker. The boy wizard’s war against Voldemort was therefore chronicled by several other directors following Columbus’ post-”Chamber of Secrets” departure, with David Yates ultimately stepping in to helm the final four installments in the series.

Tell us what you think of Gary Ross’ “Hunger Games” departure in the comments section!

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Hunger Games” and “Catching Fire.”

For young Hollywood news, fashion and “Twilight” updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

Related Videos

• High-Profile Movie Franchises That Changed Directors

Related Photos

• The Hunger Games

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682925/hunger-games-director-gary-ross.jhtml

Jenny McCarthy Jessica Alba Jessica Biel

Tags: Comments Off

Infamous mass murderer Charles Manson just lost his latest parole bid … stunning.

The hearing took place at Corcoran State Prison in California, where Manson, convicted of seven murders in 1969, has now been denied an even dozen times.

At the age of 77, this was probably his last shot at parole, as Sharon Tate’s killer’s case cannot be heard again for another 15 years from yesterday.

Of course, he was never going to get out anyway, so it’s a moot point.

Only one “Manson Family” member convicted of murder has been paroled. Steve Grogan is out, having been released in 1985 for aiding the authorities and good behavior.

Charles Manson was originally sentenced to death row in 1972, but his sentence was commuted after the California death penalty was declared unconstitutional.

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2012/04/charles-manson-parole-denied/

Haylie Duff Heidi Klum Heidi Montag

Tags: Comments Off

It’s actually happening. Britney Spears is going to become a judge on The X Factor, with a deal pending to pay her $15 million for the role, E! News reports.

“Both camps were going back and forth on the money but now they have finally come to agreement on the fee,” says one insider with knowledge of the contract.

“That was the big sticking point and now, thankfully, it’s been sorted.”

“All they need to do now is work out the smaller points. The fact the money is now set, means that there is nothing stopping this from becoming a reality.”

Coming along for the ride with Britney is fiance Jason Trawick. A second source reveals that her soon-to-be husband will become a producer on the show.

The source says of Trawick, who will soon gain control of her affairs:

“Jason is expected to be there every day Britney is on set. He is her rock and will help guide her through the process. He is the person she trusts the most.”

When final, the deal will make Britney Spears the highest paid judge on reality TV, eclipsing Jennifer Lopez’s $12 million for American Idol Season 11.

Previous reports indicated that Spears wanted $20 million for the gig, but the show balked at anything over $10 million. Looks like they met halfway.

Barring any last-minute setbacks, Spears will fill one of two X Factor judging vacancies after Simon Cowell fired Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger.

No word on who will join Britney, Simon and L.A. Reid on the panel.

Reps for The X Factor and Fox would neither confirm nor deny this, however, a production insider tells E! News that “this is an exciting time for [Britney].”

“It’ll be a fun project and she is welcoming the chance to mentor up-and-coming artists. She loves the idea of helping nurture emerging talent. She’s really looking forward to the project and being able to connect with fans.”

The X Factor returns in September.

What do you think of the decision to bring Britney on board? Will she be a good judge? Tell us in the comments (and poll) below!

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2012/04/britney-spears-to-join-the-x-factor-for-15-million-sources-confi/

Milla Jovovich Minka Kelly Minki van der Westhuizen

Tags: Comments Off

Check out the video below:

Source: http://www.celebritymound.com/video-lil-wayne-is-selling-glass-and-chrome-crib-in-louisiana-for-1-7-mil/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=video-lil-wayne-is-selling-glass-and-chrome-crib-in-louisiana-for-1-7-mil

Kasey Chambers Kat Von D Kate Beckinsale

Tags: Comments Off

‘I think he’s a genius,’ Hutcherson told MTV News hours before Ross departed franchise.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Kara Warner

Josh Hutcherson
Photo: FilmMagic

Before it was confirmed that rumors were at a fever pitch, Hutcherson didn’t want to imagine the second film without Ross there to direct it. “I have talked to him. I think Gary’s my guy,” Hutcherson told MTV News at the “Detention” junket.

With Ross’ fate now decided, the young actor only had high praise for the man who directed the blockbuster first film in the series, “The Hunger Games.” “I think he’s a genius. He’s an incredible writer and director, so I’m excited to see kind of what he ends up coming up with for the second one,” he said, adding that he had no other names he wanted to toss in the directorial ring if and when Ross shouldn’t return.

“No, I won’t let myself [say] someone else,” he added. “Not until they tell me it has to be someone else. Gary’s my guy 100 percent.” Well, now might be the time for Hutcherson to start brainstorming new directors he might want to work with once production kicks off.

In a statement released late Monday when the news broke, Ross addressed the speculation and commended the film’s studio, Lionsgate, for giving him the freedom to make the film he wanted to. “Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct ‘Catching Fire,’ ” Ross said in his statement. “As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule.

“I loved making ‘The Hunger Games’ — it was the happiest experience of my professional life,” the statement continued.

“Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: They empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results. And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.

“I also cannot say enough about the people I worked with: Producer Nina Jacobson, a great collaborator and a true friend; the brilliant Suzanne Collins, who entrusted us with her most amazing and important story; the gifted and remarkable Jennifer Lawrence, whose performance exceeded my wildest expectations, and the rest of the incredible cast, whom I am proud to call my friends,” he continued. “To the fans I want to say thank you for your support your faith, your enthusiasm and your trust. Hard as this may be to understand, I am trying to keep that trust with you. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful experience.”

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Hunger Games.”

For young Hollywood news, fashion and “Twilight” updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: ‘Hunger Games’ Director Gary Ross

Related Photos

• Inside ‘The Hunger Games’ Capitol

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682872/hunger-games-josh-hutcherson-gary-ross.jhtml

Carol Grow Carrie Underwood Cat Power

Tags: Comments Off

A few weeks ago, Kate Winslet made headlines when she openly poked fun at ?My Heart Will Go On,? the ubiquitous, Oscar-winning song from Titanic, admitting to MTV that she feels like throwing up whenever she hears it. Celebuzz kept that in mind during an exclusive interview with former Dawson?s Creek star James Van Der [...]

Source: http://www.celebritymound.com/james-van-der-beek-dawsons-creek-theme-song-makes-me-want-to-hide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=james-van-der-beek-dawsons-creek-theme-song-makes-me-want-to-hide

Kelly Monaco Kelly Ripa Kelly Rowland

Tags: Comments Off

We definitely did not see this one coming – and that just made it all the more sadder!
It was the end of the road last night on Dancing With The Stars for Sherri Shepherd and her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, as they were sent packing at the end of Rock Week on the reality competition – [...]

Source: http://perezhilton.com/2012-04-11-sherri-shepherd-eliminated-on-dancing-with-the-stars

Jamie Lynn Sigler Janet Jackson January Jones

Tags: Comments Off

On Tuesday’s Best Ink, the artists are asked to create a tattoo that commemorates a life-changing event in their client?s life.  Singer Aaron Carter guest judges. Tune in on Tuesdays at 10pm/9c only on Oxygen!  For exclusive content, head to Best Ink on Oxygen.com. Best Ink Tuesday, 4/10, 10/9c on Oxygen ?Emotional Skin-Pact?

Source: http://www.celebritymound.com/emotional-skin-pact-with-aaron-carter-on-best-ink/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=emotional-skin-pact-with-aaron-carter-on-best-ink

Amanda Peet Amanda Righetti Amanda Swisten

Tags: Comments Off

Expectations are high for the June 1st release of ?Snow White and the Huntsman,? and it sounds like Universal Pictures is already gearing up for a sequel.

According to a report, Universal honcho Ron Meyer is tossing around ideas for how to continue the film franchise if the first flick meets its goal.

Mr. Meyer is said to be exploring the option of expanding Chris Hemsworth’s character The Huntsman, as it?s a more open-ended plot line.

?Snow White and the Huntsman? also stars Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, and is a new take on the classic fairytale.

Source: http://celebrity-gossip.net/snow-white-and-huntsman/%E2%80%9Csnow-white-and-huntsman%E2%80%9D-already-planning-sequel-602049

Taryn Manning Tatiana Zavialova Taylor Swift

Tags: Comments Off

‘After difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct ‘Catching Fire,’ ‘ Ross says in a statement.
By Katie Byrne and Kara Warner

Gary Ross
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/ Getty Images

A roller-coaster week for “The Hunger Games” just got even bumpier: Director Gary Ross has officially announced he won’t direct the sequel, “Catching Fire.”

The week began positively enough, with “The Hunger Games” topping the box office for the third weekend in a row, earning nearly $303 million since its debut. But that news was quickly followed Monday with a surprising Playlist story claiming Ross wouldn’t return for the movie adaptation of “Catching Fire,” a report that has now been confirmed via statements from Ross himself and “Games” studio Lionsgate.

“Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct ‘Catching Fire,’ ” Ross said in his statement. “As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule.

“I loved making ‘The Hunger Games’ — it was the happiest experience of my professional life,” the statement continued. “Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: they empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results. And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.”

Lionsgate echoed Ross’ disappointment in the ended “Games” partnership: “We’re very sorry that Gary Ross has chosen not to direct Catching Fire. We were really looking forward to making the movie with him. He did an incredible job on the first film and we are grateful for his work. This will not be the end of our relationship, as we consider Ross to be part of the Lionsgate family and look forward to working with him in the future.”

Ross’ heartfelt sentiments did not end with his thanks to the studio.

“I also cannot say enough about the people I worked with: Producer Nina Jacobson, a great collaborator and a true friend; the brilliant Suzanne Collins, who entrusted us with her most amazing and important story; the gifted and remarkable Jennifer Lawrence whose performance exceeded my wildest expectations, and the rest of the incredible cast, whom I am proud to call my friends,” he added in his statement. “To the fans I want to say thank you for your support your faith, your enthusiasm and your trust. Hard as this may be to understand I am trying to keep that trust with you. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful experience.”

There will likely be a long list of directors gunning to fill Ross’ shoes, but until we receive word of an official list of names, we have a very well-thought-out list of our own we hope Lionsgate considers.

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Hunger Games.”

For young Hollywood news, fashion and “Twilight” updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: Gary Ross

Related Photos

• The Hunger Games

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682866/gary-ross-catching-fire-exit.jhtml

Selita Ebanks Shakara Ledard Shakira

Tags: Comments Off

With ‘On the Road,’ ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’ and ‘Breaking Dawn – Part 2,’ it looks like 22 may be KStew’s biggest year yet.
By Fallon Prinzivalli

Kristen Stewart
Photo: Michael Caulfield/ Getty Images

That’s right, “Twilight” fans, the actress who plays one of our favorite heroines turned 22 on Monday (April 9)! The past year brought Kristen Stewart plenty to be proud of with the incredible success of “Breaking Dawn – Part 1,” and her upcoming year is looking to be even greater.

This summer, Stewart takes on a different role from the accident-prone Bella Swan in “Snow White and the Huntsman,” where she will battle for her life as Snow White. With her shield and sword, Stewart teams up with the Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) to rid their kingdom of the wicked Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron).

And while Theron’s and Stewart’s characters may not get along, Theron had nothing but “mad love” for the actress when wishing Stewart a happy birthday. Theron said, “Dude, happy frickin’ birthday. You’re awesome. I feel honored to know you. And just keep rocking, man. You’re amazing. Mad love.” The “Arrested Development” actress signed off by blowing Stewart a kiss. Hemsworth also had a birthday message for Stewart, saying, “Hey Kristen, happy bloody birthday! Have a great day. Lots of love.”

Next up in the starlet’s grand 22nd year is “On the Road,” the film adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s highly praised novel. Stewart plays 16-year-old Marylou, the new wife of Dean Moriarty with an affinity for marijuana. The film will show yet another diverse side to Stewart’s acting abilities that will no doubt attract new fans who didn’t board the “Twilight” train.

And for those of us who were not only aboard that train, but conducting it, in November we’ll see Stewart return as Bella Cullen in the “Twilight Saga” finale, “Breaking Dawn — Part 2.” We were already treated to a short, but very sweet, “Breaking Dawn” trailer sneak peek last month that has the fanbase already buzzing. And with all that KStew has planned this year, it sounds like that buzz is only going to get louder.

What KStew movie are you most excited to see this year? Leave your comment below!

Check out everything we’ve got on “Breaking Dawn – Part 2.”

For young Hollywood news, fashion and “Twilight” updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: Kristen Stewart

Related Photos

• The Evolution Of: Kristen Stewart

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682714/kristen-stewart-birthday.jhtml

Rebecca Mader Rebecca Romijn Reese Witherspoon

Tags: Comments Off

Gomez says she’s ‘halting music for a bit’ to focus on acting.
By Jocelyn Vena

Selena Gomez
Photo: Frazer Harrison/ Getty Images

Selena Gomez is done being a “Spring Breaker” and now she’s getting ready to film her next movie. In an online video Q&A with her fans, she opened up about her edgier movie roles, including her next film with Ethan Hawke.

“I’m doing another movie called ‘The Getaway’ with Ethan Hawke. It’s really, really exciting,” she shared. “I go to Bulgaria and then I start filming. It’s more of an action movie, which is also different. So we’re doing that and then hopefully another movie, but that hasn’t really been confirmed yet. Then I’ll start working on my fourth album, which will be the best album I’ll ever do! But I’m just kind of halting music for a bit.”

She added that she’s “been really focused on more acting. For me it’s been fun to take risks and do things that are completely different. To be honest maybe some of you guys might not be comfortable with it. … I’m still the same person. Things that challenge me really excite me.”

That focus includes the forthcoming Eli Roth thriller, “Aftershock,” and the aforementioned “Spring Breakers.” Gomez had only praise for that film’s director, Harmony Korine (“Kids”). “He is such a brilliant director; he is so smart. He gave us direction but half the time he let us do our thing,” she said. “He gave me this freedom, but he allowed me to prove myself. He’s so great.”

In addition to all the big-screen business, the actress and singer will also get the small-screen treatment on “Glee.” According to E! News, in the prom episode, shot last week, Lea Michele reportedly sings Selena’s track “Love You Like a Love Song.” According to sources, the powerhouse vocalist put out “a really powerful performance” of Gomez’s song.

Related Videos

• Selena Gomez: 2011 In Review

Related Photos

• The Evolution Of Selena Gomez

Related Artists

• Selena Gomez

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682697/selena-gomez-movie-ethan-hawke.jhtml

Brittany Snow Brittny Gastineau Brody Dalle

Tags: Comments Off

Gomez says she’s ‘halting music for a bit’ to focus on acting.
By Jocelyn Vena

Selena Gomez
Photo: Frazer Harrison/ Getty Images

Selena Gomez is done being a “Spring Breaker” and now she’s getting ready to film her next movie. In an online video Q&A with her fans, she opened up about her edgier movie roles, including her next film with Ethan Hawke.

“I’m doing another movie called ‘The Getaway’ with Ethan Hawke. It’s really, really exciting,” she shared. “I go to Bulgaria and then I start filming. It’s more of an action movie, which is also different. So we’re doing that and then hopefully another movie, but that hasn’t really been confirmed yet. Then I’ll start working on my fourth album, which will be the best album I’ll ever do! But I’m just kind of halting music for a bit.”

She added that she’s “been really focused on more acting. For me it’s been fun to take risks and do things that are completely different. To be honest maybe some of you guys might not be comfortable with it. … I’m still the same person. Things that challenge me really excite me.”

That focus includes the forthcoming Eli Roth thriller, “Aftershock,” and the aforementioned “Spring Breakers.” Gomez had only praise for that film’s director, Harmony Korine (“Kids”). “He is such a brilliant director; he is so smart. He gave us direction but half the time he let us do our thing,” she said. “He gave me this freedom, but he allowed me to prove myself. He’s so great.”

In addition to all the big-screen business, the actress and singer will also get the small-screen treatment on “Glee.” According to E! News, in the prom episode, shot last week, Lea Michele reportedly sings Selena’s track “Love You Like a Love Song.” According to sources, the powerhouse vocalist put out “a really powerful performance” of Gomez’s song.

Related Videos

• Selena Gomez: 2011 In Review

Related Photos

• The Evolution Of Selena Gomez

Related Artists

• Selena Gomez

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682697/selena-gomez-movie-ethan-hawke.jhtml

Jennifer ODell Jennifer Scholle Jennifer Sky

Tags: Comments Off

Teams Adam and Cee Lo hit the stage to sing for America’s votes.
By John Mitchell

Jamar Rogers on “The Voice”
Photo: NBC

Last week on “The Voice,” Teams Blake and Christina hit the live stage and saw their numbers dwindle by two contestants each after all was said and done. On Monday night (April 9), it was Team Cee Lo and Team Adam’s turn to sing for their survival in the competition and secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

Levine and Green, out of his Elvis clown costume from last week but sporting the bright red he’s been rocking all season, seemed in good spirits at the top of the show, even joking with Blake about how underdressed he was.

Remember: The top three vote-getters from each team will move on automatically, while the bottom three will perform for their respective coach (and America, duh!) Tuesday night, hoping to secure Cee Lo or Adam’s lone “save” to stay in the hunt to be the next “Voice.”

Away we go!

Up first was Team Adam’s Katrina Parker, singing the Smashing Pumpkins’ “Tonight, Tonight.” Adam’s big advice for Katrina was to stay away from belting too hard to avoid comparisons to Adele. She did what he said but drew mixed reviews from the judges, who felt the song wasn’t a good showcase for Parker’s talents.

Team Cee Lo’s first contestant to take the stage was Cheesa, whose play on the ’70s classic “Don’t Leave Me This Way” was brimming with coach Cee Lo’s signature Technicolor swagger and had the judges championing her showmanship. “That was like watching ‘Solid Gold,’ ” Blake said. “That had Cee Lo written all over it.”

Team Adam’s Tony Lucca has become an early favorite for one big reason: He used to share the TV screen with coach Christina Aguilera — who’s been looking better than ever with toned-down makeup and hair since the live shows began — on Disney’s “The Mickey Mouse Club.” Sensing what Aguilera ultimately called out — that he can be a “one-dimensional” performer, who has been helped along by his connection to her — Adam pushed Lucca to go more pop with Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” but Lucca’s rocker growl struggled through the song’s falsetto moments.

Kim Yarbrough was reliably strong if imperfect singing Adele, but when are we going to put a moratorium on tackling Adele? In its relatively short life, “Rolling in the Deep” has been pillaged by reality-TV singing contestants almost as much as, well, Christina’s “Beautiful” circa 2004-ish “American Idol.”

Boston mechanic James Massone from Team Cee Lo got tossed a curveball with Norah Jones’ “Don’t Know Why” and proved himself both a chameleon with a killer falsetto (take lessons, Tony Lucca) and quite a lady’s man. Blake was his most enthusiastic supporter, declaring, “I almost threw my panties on the stage just now.”

(And here we thought he only got worked up like that when his best bro hit the stage. Hope Adam doesn’t get jealous!)

Meanwhile, the night’s next two performers, gravel-voiced rocker Juliet Simms and unique-voiced Mathai, played right to their strengths with Sting’s “Roxanne” and a jazzy remix of John Legend’s “Ordinary People,” respectively, and earned the expected raves. “You did the best of anyone who’s performed so far,” Adam said of Simms. “Your voice is dope,” Xtina concurred.

Ultra-confident rocker Tony Vincent was up next, singing “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” If the Broadway-meets-dictator-podium stage setup was strange, his vocal performance was anything but. He reeled it in from previous performances and proved he could control his powerful voice.

Simms, Mathai and Vincent were definitely tough acts to follow, but subdued Karla Davis, singing “Airplanes,” and Team Cee Lo’s former model Erin Martin were picked for the task. Christina called Karla the “biggest surprise of the night,” while Blake criticized the song choice, and even Adam commented that Davis did a stronger job when she was less nervous while they were practicing in the rehearsal space.

Martin certainly brought serious production values to her take on the Bangles’ “Walk Like an Egyptian” (with her chariot and man dancers, she was giving us Madonna at the Super Bowl vibes, albeit in a much smaller way) but forgot to bring much aggression to her actual performance. “Here we go again with the male strippers,” Blake commented. “I think Blake just bought a one-way ticket to Boner Town,” Adam quipped in response. “And it’s not refundable,” he hit back.

It’s never a great sign when the judges are more consumed by the production than the performance when you’re on a show called “The Voice,” is it?

The folks behind the scenes wisely chose two of the show’s best-known showstoppers for the end of the night, saving Team Adam’s preppy Pip and Team Cee Lo’s Jamar Rogers for last. Adam wanted Pip to break out of his shell and gave him the chance to show off his rock-star bona fides with “When You Were Young.” Pip brought flash, but Christina wasn’t loving it, saying she didn’t feel like he was connected to the song and had early pitch issues. Adam agreed; Pip’s got the voice, but he’s missing the grit and, should he move forward, that is something they will have to work on.

Closing out the night, Rogers hit the stage in his best Michael Jackson jacket for Lenny Kravitz’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way.” The audience loved it and so did the judges, and Jamar, with his unstoppable stage presence and dramatic backstory of overcoming drug addiction and living with HIV, continues to seem like a front-runner in the competition.

Who do you think gave the best performance tonight on “The Voice”? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Artists

• Adam Levine
• Cee Lo Green
• Blake Shelton
• Christina Aguilera

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682782/the-voice-jamar-rogers.jhtml

Lauren Conrad Lauren German LeAnn Rimes

Tags: Comments Off

‘Jay-Z retired; he’s back,’ Eddie Kaye Thomas tells MTV News when asked about ‘American Wedding’ being billed as the last ‘Pie’ flick.
By Ryan J. Downey

Thomas Ian Nicholas, Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Chris Klein and Eddie Kaye Thomas in “American Reunion”
Photo: Universal Pictures

“American Wedding” was billed as “the thrilling climax” of the “American Pie” franchise back in 2003. But as every fan knows, a handful of “American Pie Presents” direct-to-DVD movies followed, and this weekend, the original cast returns to theaters in the appropriately titled “American Reunion.” So what gives?

When MTV News posed this question, Eddie Kaye Thomas (better known to fans of the beloved comedy franchise as Finch) was quick with a killer response. “Jay-Z retired; he’s back. Why don’t you ask him that question?” he said with a wide smile, to much laughter from co-star Seann William Scott.

In fairness to the entire cast, “Friday the 13th Part IV” was billed as “The Final Chapter” and there have been eight more movies since, including the remake of the original and “Freddy vs. Jason.” Speaking of Freddy, “The Final Nightmare” was roughly three movies ago as well. There’s nothing new about “final” entries in popular franchises turning out to be anything but, which is great news for the countless people who have loved the “American Pie” series since the first film debuted in 1999.

Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Thomas and Scott (as the notorious Stifler) are all back for “American Reunion,” which tackles the challenges of adulthood with the same balance of raunchy humor and warmhearted sentiment as previous installments. Biggs and Scott have co-executive-producer credit on the film in addition to their co-starring roles, which became a subject of comedy in and of itself when MTV News caught up with the cast in Los Angeles.

“He’s my bitch,” Scott joked of Thomas, when the “executive producer” topic was introduced.

“I got [Scott and Biggs] their sparkling waters and brought them their breakfast every morning,” Thomas deadpanned.

“American Reunion” was written and directed by the “Harold & Kumar” team of Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, who were big fans of the spirit laid down by original writer Adam Herz and “American Pie” director Paul Weitz. Of course, the “Reunion” in the title was as much one for the characters as it was for the people who play them. The movie shot on location in Atlanta, unlike the previous installments which were all shot in Los Angeles. “All of us get along really well,” said Tara Reid, who returned as Vicky. “You put everyone back together again, in the same room, and the energy and the magic all comes back.”

Thomas Ian Nicholas (Kevin in the series) is also a musician, and that camaraderie and chemistry on location led to his participation in the film’s soundtrack. Nicholas has released two albums and contributed an original song, “My Generation,” to the soundtrack for “American Reunion.” “We hung out so much that — and I’ve never done this before — I ended up playing the wrap party, which is how Jon and Hayden really saw the music side of me and ended up putting one of my songs on the soundtrack. I think that all kind of happened because we had so much fun on the set.”

Part of that fun involved a number of comedic stunts, including a big fight scene that breaks out at a party.

“I have a funny story about that actually,” Thomas said. “When we were shooting the fight scene, it had just been written that my sort of fight portion was really easy, so for whatever reason, the stunt coordinator didn’t hire me a stunt double. So there was a moment where all the cast — Jason, Seann, Eddie, Chris — were sitting with the directors behind the monitors and all the stunt guys are in and me. So then they look and they’re like, ‘Does Thomas realize that we’re not there?’ So I was there fighting with the stunt guys because, you know, they didn’t have a stunt guy for me.”

Luckily, of course, he wasn’t hurt. “At least not that I reported,” he said with a grin. “I’ve done stunts before. We came up with this cool flip thing that I did to the stunt guy and then he kind of gave me some pointers on how to get kick in the gut and land flat on my face without breaking my neck.”

“American Reunion” is out now.

Check out everything we’ve got on “American Reunion.”

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: ‘American Reunion’

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682596/american-reunion-final-chapter.jhtml

Shana Hiatt Shania Twain Shanna Moakler

Tags: Comments Off

Film manages to fend off challenges from ‘American Reunion’ and ‘Titanic 3D.’
By Ryan J. Downey

Lenny Kravitz, Woody Harrelson and Josh Hutcherson in “The Hunger Games”
Photo: Lionsgate

“The Hunger Games” won the box office for a third consecutive weekend, fending off challenges from tried-and-true romance and raunchy humor alike. Neither “American Reunion,” the latest installment of the “American Pie” franchise, nor the 3-D re-release of “Titanic” were able to knock Jennifer Lawrence and company from atop the box-office perch as “Games” collected another $33.5 million and passed the $300 million mark.

“American Reunion” debuted at #2 with $21.5 million while “Titanic 3D” earned $17.3 million. “Wrath of the Titans” was #4 during its second weekend in theaters with $15 million for a $58.8 million total. “Mirror Mirror” rounded out the top five with $11 million for a $36.4 million total.

“The Hunger Games” ranked right behind “Avatar” in the all-time list of non-sequels to cross the $300 million mark in the shortest amount of time. Its estimated $302.8 million in North American receipts is more than the final totals of most of the “Harry Potter” movies and all of the entries in the “Twilight” series. Box-office prognosticators have estimated that “Games,” based on the popular young adult novel, will eventually earn at least $350 million.

The fourth theatrically released “American Pie” movie, which followed 2003′s “American Wedding” and a string of direct-to-DVD “American Pie Presents” spinoffs, did poorly relative to other entries. The $21.5 million earned by “American Reunion” was much lower than the opening weekends for “American Pie 2″ ($45.1 million) and “Wedding” ($33.4 million). Only the original “Pie” earned a “fresh” rating on film-review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes; “Reunion” is the worst reviewed of the series. “There are almost no laughs, save what [Seann William] Scott valiantly squeezes out of Stifler’s antics,” wrote the Wrap’s Alonso Duralde. “The entire film is a mistake,” wrote the San Francisco Chronicle‘s Amy Biancolli.

“American Reunion” did manage to land the highest Easter weekend opening for an R-rated film in several years and also collected an impressive amount overseas, where it opened in 28 countries. The film’s $19.3 million abroad was more than “American Wedding” made nine years ago.

“Titanic” is the second-highest-grossing film of all time, behind “Avatar.” Both, of course, were directed by James Cameron, who personally oversaw the 3-D conversion of the new theatrical re-release. The opening weekend for “Titanic 3D” was lower than that of other recent 3-D re-releases, including “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” as well as Disney’s “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast.”

The 10-day haul for “Wrath of the Titans” is less than the opening weekend of the film’s predecessor, “Clash of the Titans,” which was a remake of the early ’80s fantasy film. Speaking of the ’80s (this time, the late ’80s), “21 Jump Street” crossed the $100 million mark on Friday. The comedic take on the TV cop show has made an estimated $109.6 million. “Mirror Mirror,” which dropped 39 percent over the weekend, is the first of two Snow White films on the way this year. “Snow White and the Huntsman,” which is due this summer, has enjoyed more positive buzz.

This weekend’s new releases include well-reviewed horror flick “The Cabin in the Woods,” a long-gestating project written by “Avengers” director Joss Whedon and his old pal from the “Buffy” days Drew Goddard (who also directed); futuristic prison thriller “Lockout”; “Blue Like Jazz,” based on the popular semi-autobiographical book by hipster Christian theologian Donald Miller; and a brand-new version of “The Three Stooges.”

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Hunger Games,” “Titanic 3D” and “American Reunion.”

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

Related Videos

• MTV Rough Cut: ‘American Reunion’

Related Photos

• The Hunger Games

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1682696/hunger-games-box-office.jhtml

Kate Moss Kate Walsh Katharine McPhee

Tags: Comments Off

Disney has announced a release date in April 2014, but what else can we predict about Cap’s return to the big screen?
By Kevin Sullivan

Chris Evans in “Captain America: The First Avenger”
Photo: Paramount Pictures

Captain America might be only getting ready to strap on his shield for “The Avengers,” but Disney has already announced definite plans for his next solo adventure.

In a press release on Thursday (April 5), Disney set the debut of “Captain America 2″ for April 4, 2014 and gave a brief explanation of where the story will take us. “The second installment will pick-up where the highly anticipated ‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ (May 4, 2012) leaves off, as Steve Rogers continues his affiliation with Nick Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D and struggles to embrace his role in the modern world.”

The news comes hot off talk of a short list for director candidates, so we’ve broken down everything we know so far about the “Captain America” sequel.

The Setting
The plot information confirms two items for the Marvel Universe. First, the film will definitely have a contemporary setting, an issue that there’s been some back-and-forth on since the release of “Captain America: The First Avenger” last year.

Splash Page spoke with Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, the writers of “The First Avenger,” a year ago about their plans for the sequel, which they are onboard to pen as well. The writing team saw the flash forward to the modern era at the end of the original film as an opportunity to explore two different settings, leaving 40s Cap a possibility through flashback.

“It’s sort of a weirdly huge opportunity for storytelling in that you know modern Cap through ‘The Avengers’ at that point, and just by the nature of what we were talking about before, there’s going to be a lot of his World War II history we haven’t shown,” Markus said. “We’re going to have two entire timelines to play with.”

Nick Fury
We’re also sure that Samuel L. Jackson‘s Nick Fury will almost definitely survive “The Avengers.” Director Joss Whedon is notorious for killing characters, so with Fury removed from the list, the candidates for a possible early demise is whittled down.

The Director
We’re still a long way from seeing a second “Captain America” movie, the 2014 release date aside. With director Joe Johnston not returning, the production is currently seeking a director to lead Cap back into the fray, and a report last week from Vulture singled out Anthony and Joseph Russo from “Community” fame as candidates on Marvel’s short list of contenders.

The Release Date
While the specific date of April 4 is news, the year 2014 had been batted around for a while. Chris Evans spoke with the Playlist back in September about the effective spacing for the planned Marvel movies. “They may wait until 2014 until they release the next Cap,” Evans said. “Marvel has a lot of balls in the air, they aren’t going to cannibalize their films.”

Check out everything we’ve got on “The Avengers.”