The Human Centipede II Banned in Australia

Consider it another notch in Tom Six’s cinematic bedpost: The barf-inducing horror sequel The Human Centipede II (Full Sequence) has been banned in Australia following review by the Classification Review Board, the nation’s three-person governing body. Too extreme even for an R 18+ rating, the film was deemed to contain “gratuitous, exploitative, or offensive depictions of violence with a very high degree of impact and cruelty which has a high impact;” hit with a RC (Refused Classification) label, it can’t be “sold, hired, or advertised” in Australia. This, despite the Australian teaser for the film back in September suggesting that Australia would get an uncut version. Don’t worry, Aussies: Censors in U.K. also banned The Human Centipede II via a refusal to certify (albeit with much more colorful, entertaining language) and the film eventually passed muster after Six edited out the more horrifying content. And you don’t want to end up like Movieline’s poor Fantastic Fest seatmate, do you? Of course, there’s the whole censorship business to be outraged by, but trust me: If you truly want the full, uncut Human Centipede II experience it’ll be available eventually in Six’s Director’s Cut on DVD. At least then you can curl up into the fetal position in the comfort of your own home. [Classification Review Board via Movie City News]

Charlize Theron Desires To Kill Billy Burke... In 'Snow White'

FROM MTV MOVIES: Since a clip turned up for Kristen Stewart's next likely blockbuster, "Snow White-colored as well as the Huntsman" -- a.k.a. her first large publish-"Twilight" movie -- we've been chomping within the bit to learn more in regards to the film. Fortunately, MTV News stood a fun-filled chat recently with Stewart's "Huntsman" co-star Charlize Theron, throughout the South African-born beauty states she and Stewart are likely to shoot the film's climactic fight sequence. "I'm still shooting ['Huntsman'], I'm coming back by 50 percent days," Theron told us as she promoted the comedy "Youthful Adult." "I have not necessarily labored with [Kristen]. I've done some small things along with her, but we will shoot our large showdown, and fingers joined personally. It's the large fight. I'm just really, really, really wanting I buy to kill her," she mentioned getting a grin. "That's how a story eventually eventually ends up, right?" See the full story at MTV Movies!

'John Carter' Poster: Lost Within Our World

The most recent poster for Disney's "John Carter" will not provide you with a obvious take a look at Mars or even the animals living in the world. That being stated, it's certainly the best marketing material I have seen so far for that approaching sci-fi flick. Anybody you never know the fundamental premise of "John Carter" recognizes that its titular hero, performed by Taylor Kitsch, is really a stranger within the strange land of Mars. This poster really underlines that by getting him tinted in blue, as the relaxation of Mars and it is citizens are deep oranges and yellows. It is rather simple, however it works. The brand new poster comes hot around the heels of the completely new image in the film that does give fans a great take a look at Mars. And, better still, a brand new trailer will sandwich now of "John Carter" sneak peeks if this premieres tomorrow on "Due To Jimmy Kimmel Live." In line with the classic novel by Edgar Grain Burroughs, "John Carter" informs the storyline of former military captain John Carter who strangely will get moved to Mars and becomes unwillingly active in the war between your planet's people. He soon finds out the survival of Barsoom (Mars) and it is people rests exclusively in the hands. "It's this type of grand movie, and John is within every shot of the film, so obviously it is a large gap," Kitsch stated inside a recent interview with MTV News. "You decide to go on film, and also you read for him a few occasions and you arrive at the screen make sure you are beginning to fight through this." Are you currently searching toward "John Carter"? Inform us within the comments section below or on Twitter!

SeeFlik launches video clip competitions

Striving use a showcase for emerging filmmakers, recently minted SeeFlik is starting a set of online video clip competitions. The contests -- a Judge's Award along with a Fans Favorite -- is going to be open simply to students who attend or are within 5 years of graduation from accredited undergraduate or graduate film programs. SeeFlik, headed by longtime industry Ray Meli, recommended the contests like a "farm system" for that entertainment industry. "Hundreds of 1000's of emerging artists and filmmakers finish college every year and also have couple of options apart from the standard film festivals to obtain their voices heard," Meli stated. The very first round from the contests will conclude on February. 29 with those who win receiving $50,000 along with a showcase for talent agencies and galleries. The organization is starting with operating capital of $a million, funded by Wall Street executives Adam Wachter and Shaun Parket along with other executives. Wachter is chief operating officer, and Parket is chief financial officer. David Greenblatt, who co-founded Endeavor, assists being an agent to contest those who win and mentor them through the entire process of meeting agents, managers and studio executives. SeeFlik has drawn on six industry veterinarians for everyone on its Judge's Honours panel -- Michael London, Shane Black, Angelo Pizzo, Keir Pearson, Robert Kamen and Suzanne p Passe. The Fans Favorite competition will employ "The American Idol ShowInch-style voting, where the winning short is dependent upon the amount of votes received. "SeeFlik puts in one location an excellent forum for emerging filmmakers to become discovered," Greenblatt stated. SeeFlik has additionally registered nearly 20 film schools as affiliate marketers to pay for many forms are marketing including schools at Florida Condition U., NYU, Syracuse U., UCLA and USC. The competitions aren't restricted to students and alumni in the affiliated schools, and SeeFlik intends to expand the network of film schools. To become qualified, films should be original and no more than 25 minutes. Participants enter by uploading films electronically towards the SeeFlik site. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

The Scene: Within the 21st Annual Gotham Honours

Lawyers representing the charged assassin of Robert F. Kennedy aspire to prove their client's innocence... 43 years later. In recently filed court papers acquired through the AP, Sirhan Sirhan's legal team allege that the bullet was switched in evidence at his trial, which Sirhan was hypnotized to fireplace shots like a diversion in the actual killer. The lawyers, William F. Pepper and Laurie Dusek, also declare that new audio tests in the 1968 murder prove that there have been 13 shots fired from multiple guns -- five a lot more than Sirhan might have fired from his pistol. Within the original trial, eight bullets were counted. Three hit Kennedy, and also the relaxation struck five other sufferers who could recover. PHOTOS: 12 of Hollywood's Most Mysterious Deaths The shooting happened at L.A.'s Ambassador hotel on June 5, 1968, because the Senator was honoring his victory within the California and South Dakota primary elections for that Democratic nomination of Leader. Kennedy was fatally wounded because he walked with the hotel's kitchen on his method to the exit. He made it nearly 26 hrs following the incident, dying on June 6 in the Good Samaritan hospital, where he'd been given surgery. With Kennedy that evening was friend and actor/author George Plimpton (Nixon, Good Will Hunting), who assisted wrestle Sirhan down and disarm him. Plimpton was assisted by Olympic gold medalist, Rafer Manley and professional football player, Rosey Grier. Rosemary oil Clooney, a powerful Kennedy supporter, seemed to be available your evening. PHOTOS: Stars Who've Performed Political figures The fateful evening was immortalized within the 2006 film Bobby, written and directed by Emilio Estevez. The 62-page federal court brief may be the latest in many appeals filed on Sirhan's account, which were formerly switched lower. The Palestinian immigrant hopes to become deported to Jordan and "silently live the relaxation of his existence with family and buddies," the filing states. "But finally he'd, a minimum of, have obtained lengthy postponed justice." Throughout his trial, Sirhan accepted he had wiped out the Senator "with two decades of malice aforethought." He later rescinded his confession. The lawyers have requested the judge set an evidentiary hearing to reexamine the situation, proclaiming that Sirhan didn't have sufficient aid of counsel throughout his trial. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery 12 of Hollywood's Most Mysterious Deaths Related Subjects Politics

'Walking Dead' systems season large for AMC

Sunday evening saw AMC's "The Walking Dead" wrap its short fall season with considerable amounts while audiences ongoing to cling for the Kardashian clan. Also of note within the finish in the extended holiday weekend will be a sluggish start for "Hallmark Hall of Fame" on its new network home, ABC, that is one net's "Not such a long time ago" dipped since it returned undertaking a 1-week hiatus but nevertheless remains potent. Searching within the preliminary Nielsen estimations, "The Walking Dead" averaged 6.6 000 0000 audiences, including 4.5 million among the demo-friendly grownups 18-49 crowd. It absolutely was up week to week and drenched the sophomore skein's the 2nd best scores so far -- behind only its season premiere lately. While "Walking Dead" has emerged as fundamental cable's top-rated original drama series ever in grownups 18-49, the completely new drama airing behind it, "Hell on Wheels," has lost ground after its sturdy start and really should now proceed for an additional 72 hours without its customarily strong lead-in. "Hell" came 4.4 million due to its premiere on November. 6 combined with fallen to 3.5 million due to its third episode AMC did not problem ratings for your show's fourth episode on Sunday. Elsewhere, it appears the short-were living marriage of Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries didn't alienate audiences, that are still keen to follow along with together with the household's reality exploits. Sunday's second-season premiere of E!'s "Kourtney and Kim Take NY" came 3.2 million audiences, slightly a lot better than the amounts for your series launch within the month of the month of january. Inside the 18-49 demo, "NY" received 2.3 million. Beginning the summer season preem, it absolutely was tough to forecast set up divorce brouhaha brings more audiences for the "Kardashian" series or turn them in the cabler's franchise. The 3.2 million number was good sixth-season finale of "Maintaining While using Kardashians," which broadcast in September. October's two-part wedding special averaged 4.2 million audiences. Following "NY," "After Lately" came a collection-high 1.2 million for your internet. Round the broadcast side Sunday, the low-trending "Hallmark Hall of Fame" franchise opened up up progressively for ABC, as "Mitch Albom's Have a very Little Belief" settled for just about any preliminary 1.1 rating/2 participate grownups 18-49 and 6.5 million audiences overall from 9 to 11 p.m., lower an impressive 48% within the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" original presentation of "November Christmas" this past year on CBS. The Interest internet had broadcast the franchise exclusively from 1995 until taken before relinquishing it due to lowering ratings. Also for ABC, "America's Funniest Home Videos" (1.8/4 in 18-49, 7.6 000 0000 audiences overall) was up just a little versus. its latest airing, and "Not such a long time ago" (3.4/8 in 18-49, 10.7 million audiences overall), sidelined the other day with the American Music Honours, was lower but did draw its greatest audience so far among the under-18 crowd (1.5 million). The holiday weekend also saw "Tyler Perry's For Better of Worse" draw 3.4 million audiences (including 1.8 million grownups 18-49) due to its Friday premiere around the best spinner's. The sitcom, good "Why Did I Acquired Married?" movies, might be the most recent from multihyphenate Perry, whose "House of Payne" broadcast greater than 200 episodes round the cabler. Contact Stuart Levine at stuart.levine@variety.com

Amazing Race's Bill and Cathi: I Had Been Too Careful on the road

Bill and Cathi After you have having the ability to escape elimination two occasions round the Amazing Race, Bill and Cathi Alden understood their there is a period up after they lost an hour or so approximately searching for the homing pigeon location in Belgium. "We'd a great deal trouble searching for the wall which we're able to not suppose another team had too many problems after they situated the pigeons," Cathi notifies TVGuide.com. "I had been confident i had been last. It absolutely was so dark and late in those days.In . But losing your way wasn't really the only aspect in their elimination. See what else they feel brought for his or her demise and the way they remain in this fit condition.Incredible Race's Laurence and Zac: The U-Turn and achieving lost "pressed us inside the edge"Perhaps you have perform pigeon task? They didn't demonstrate carrying it out.Cathi: We have arrived plus it am dark they didn't release the pigeons. They just gave us a card in the address of where the pigeon might be. That was just [more confirmation] that individuals were last.Do you realize the amount of time you lost searching for the pigeons?Bill: Probably an hour or so approximately. We have arrived very late. The twelve signs near to the town - I am unsure if an individual switched the sign slightly or what - but that needed us nearly half an hour, running forward and backward. We visited the wrong perfect the wall, so some nice youthful kids directed us right finish in the wall. It absolutely was so dark that individuals ended up available the wall and finally we found the clues lower below, that your couple of from the teams drove up and spotted immediately. It aided to experience a little sunlight. It needed us quite a while. As we had that, we're able to mind towards the city pretty fast. We lost the required time. We'd not seen almost every other team. We figured it absolutely was in regards to the finish.Why maybe it had been so difficult to get the region?Cathi: It absolutely was a very small place, nevertheless the actual wall can be a fence kind of component that circles just a little peak. It really meanders which is apparent around the rear from the city. People would say, "You're going here, you're going here, you're going here," but, you possessed to go to precisely the best place.Expenses: Also the roads don't go straight, so soon you're headed back the way you just came and you're simply in trouble. Individuals are nice be familiar with terrain virtually, however they don't realize that after it is said this, it doesn't appear sensible for you personally. You're while using first street that turns off and so they mean the main street that turns off in position the hill.You made an appearance to have trouble with self-navigation. You lost time likely to Legoland the other day now this.Cathi: I wouldn't condition which i was bad at navigation because we never went the wrong method round the freeway ever. I had been careful, maybe too careful. We stopped and asked for probably more perhaps a couple of from the other teams. Another factor is, searching back, i was less aggressive inside our driving after we probably must have been. Basically, we really did bring them at their word after they mentioned to go to the published posted speed limit. In my opinion a couple of from the other teams were more aggressive inside their driving and could constitute any error time. We just kind of saved it within the published posted speed limit the whole time. Maybe once we had driven faster, we could've taken track of someone. We'd great luck in Copenhagen while using directions as well as the driving, but no such luck here.Amazing Race's Justin and Jennifer: It absolutely was a "huge mistake" not biking backWhy weren't you more aggressive?Cathi: We're pretty rule-bound. After they say "go the published posted speed limit," we go the published posted speed limit. Once we were to make it happen again, we wouldn't go the published posted speed limit. [Laughs] We'd speed so when we have a ten-minute penalty, whoopee! Since you have composed people 10 mins.Costs: In general, it absolutely was almost 1,000 kilometers of driving. We'd experienced Europe numerous occasions, but we always used mass transit, so to date because the driving goes, I wasn't acquainted with it, therefore i didn't push it. We could've composed lots of time because manner. We have got directions which were not easily understood, when you went from everything you understood, you stopped and asked for again. After being almost goners the initial leg, how managed to get happen feel to produce the best five? Cathi: I had been grateful for every moment. To own [been saved by] two non-elimination legs? I had been very grateful for your first non-elimination because we'd this type of difficult time finding the board. So next, it absolutely was like, "Perform best you'll be able to, enjoy every minute" which we did. Just before the race began, the philosophy was "nearly all you will be removed," and that means you use knowning that and knowing you're going for any huge risk submitting yourself. Nevertheless it was certainly useful.How will you retain in this fit condition? In my opinion everyone desires to look much like everybody do inside their 60s.Cathi: [Laughs] Perhaps you have like how a bodybuilder observed that?Amazing Race's Liz and Marie: Our cabbie ripped us offThey paid out you more compliments in comparison as to the they did almost every other team.Cathi: I realize! We exercise, probably four to six occasions each week. We now have attempted it for several years. It is not something we did two or three several days [just before the race]. It's a lifestyle for people. Perform it because you need to live as extended to ensure that as happily to ensure that as healthy as you possibly can.Cathi, you saved falling lower. The amount of bruises perhaps you have get? Cathi: I used to be engrossed in bruises following a grain patty. There has been no real injuries whatsoever. My balance isn't excellent to begin with which we didn't remember to consider our backpacks off, and so the weight would change which i'd fall.Bill: She also handled to acquire some kind of special gems hanging towards the elephant. You saved rising minimizing on that, and he or she got her arms bruised up trying to keep on.Cathi: After, I asked for the cameraman if he'd put the falls together [in the montage] personally because it only decided to be amusing!Exactly what are you to date?Cathi: We'll Nz in two and a half days. Our daughter's husband originates from Nz, so our whole household is certainly going there for Christmas. It's summer season there, to depart Or and also to visit Nz will probably be great.

Casting Standout: 'Midnight in Paris'

Juliet Taylor has been casting movies for Woody Allen since the early 1970s, yet she still finds a special kind of thrill in embarking on a new project for the celebrated auteur. In the case of "Midnight in Paris," Allen's time-hopping love letter to the City of Lights, Taylor immediately recognized that it was a different sort of project for the filmmaker. "I thought it was unique, for sure," she says. "It was very exciting; it's a movie he's been trying to make for a few years and was very eager to do, and all of the ingredients fell together perfectly this time."The firstand perhaps greatestchallenge was finding an actor who could properly inhabit the central role of mild-mannered screenwriter Gil. Taylor says she and Allen talked for a month about many possible actors and angles for the part. "We really wanted to set the tone of the film in a particular way," she recalls. "Sometimes people tend to think that the male protagonists in Woody's movies are so much Woody's voice that it becomes complicated for the actor. I think what worked so beautifully with Owen Wilson is that Owen Wilson has his own voice, and his own voice was a really interesting way of expressing Woody's thoughts and feelings and getting underneath his humor. He's not typical of what a Woody guy would be."Luckily, Wilson responded immediately to the scripteven though he had a limited amount of time to read it. Sending the script "is always a bit of a challenge with Woody," says Taylor. "Basically, someone had to drive it to Owen Wilson's house and pick it up a few hours later."After that initial challenge, casting Wilson's leading ladiesRachel McAdams as prickly fiance Inez and Marion Cotillard as sultry muse Adrianawas a no-brainer. "Woody has always wanted to work with Rachel McAdams and it's never worked out," Taylor says. "And then of course Marion Cotillard was sort of our ideal for that part."Another massive casting feat soon presented itself, however: populating the vibrant 1920s Paris to which Wilson finds himself transported and that features a number of well-known historical figures. "It was a huge research undertaking," says Taylor. "Everything had to be done accurately to the year. You had to know how old, say, Ernest Hemingway was in that year. It was done quite meticulously with photographs and in some cases with old footage."Though Taylor wasn't necessarily looking for well-known faces, certain A-list actors were obvious choices, such as Kathy Bates as Gertrude Stein or Adrien Brody as Salvador Dal. "You couldn't not think of him for that," the CD says of Brody.In other cases, less-established performers proved to be perfect fits. Taylor spotted Corey Stoll, who cuts a charismatic, scene-stealing figure as Hemingway, in a Broadway revival of "A View From the Bridge" opposite Liev Schreiber and Scarlett Johansson. "He played their Italian immigrant cousin who comes to the United States, and it's a really difficult part, 'cause it's an old-fashioned, kind of cumbersome role," Taylor says. "He was so fantastic, and he just brought it to life. Woody went to see it too, and then [Stoll] came in and read, and he just knocked us out. That was a fun find."Taylor proudly notes that Stoll and Tom Hiddleston, who was cast as F. Scott Fitzgerald, have gone on to higher-profile roles: Stoll as one of the lead detectives in "Law & Order: LA" and Hiddleston as vengeful Loki in "Thor" and the upcoming "The Avengers."Back in the realm of present-day Paris, Taylor cast beloved character players Mimi Kennedy and Kurt Fuller as Inez's very American parents. "I've known both of them for quite a long time," the CD says of the actors. "I knew Mimi Kennedy years ago when she was in NY, and when I saw her in [the film 'In the Loop'], I thought, 'Oh, my gosh, she's grown up to be this really interesting persona.' They both felt so real. They didn't feel actory."The casting team rounded out the ensemble with an interesting mix of well-knowns (Michael Sheen as a know-it-all friend), up-and-comers ("Inglourious Basterds" supporting player Lea Seydoux as a charming antiques dealer), and offbeat choices (French first lady and recording star Carla Bruni as a museum guide) to give the entire film a fresh, unique feel.Says Taylor, "From a casting director's standpoint, it was very satisfying because we used a wonderful combination of new people and people who are quite well-known but were doing things that people haven't seen them do before. It was a fun balance."Casting Directors: Juliet Taylor, Patricia DiCerto, and Stphane Foenkinos Director: Woody AllenWriter: Woody AllenStarring: Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard, Kathy Bates, Adrien Brody, Michael Sheen, Carla Bruni, Kurt Fuller, Mimi Kennedy, Corey StollThe Pitch: A young writer (Wilson) re-evaluates the state of his life when he's transported back in time to the 1920s while vacationing in the most romantic city in the world: Paris, France. To read Back Stage's complete coverage of Awards Season, please get our FREE SAG Nomination Committee Guide. Or follow all our daily coverage with Back Stage's new online Awards Season section.

Live! With Kelly Books More Co-Hosts

Is these males the primary one? Live! With Kelly has attracted on several more guest co-hosts since the show continues to locate a lasting alternative for Regis Philbin. Joining co-host Kelly Ripa the first time will beDancing while using Stars ballerina and Season 13 finalist Derek Hough on 12 ,. 5 and actor Jonah Hill on 12 ,. 6. In addition previous guest co-hosts Jerry O’Connell and Josh Groban will return with an encore on November. 25 and from 12 ,. 7-9, correspondingly.

Britdoc, Bertha team on docus

"The Interrupters" has won the very first grant in the Connect Fund. The Funnel 4 Britdoc Foundation has became a member of forces using the Nigeria-based Bertha Foundation to produce two funds for documentary features amassing 1.5 million ($2.4 million) over 3 years.The Bertha Britdoc Connect Fund and also the Bertha Britdoc Documentary Journalism Fund will each hands out $400,000 annually to aid social activist filmmaking."The Interrupters," by Steve James, has won the very first grant in the Connect Fund, which is supposed to back "outreach and engagement" campaigns for completed films. Soniya Kirpalani's "We the folksInch may be the first project to obtain backing in the Documentary Journalism Fund, that will support producing investigative paperwork.Included in the partnership, an agent of Bertha, a household foundation devoted to marketing social activism, will join the board of Britdoc, a nonprofit org released through the U.K.'s Funnel 4 in 2005."The Bertha Foundation is really a visionary organization having a history in supporting social justice causes through documentary film," stated Britdoc Boss Jess Search. "We feel that by joining forces, we are able to enable documentary filmmakers globally."Rebecca Lichtenfeld, an agent to Bertha, stated, "The Bertha Foundation supports passionate people, strong leadership and activism to produce telecomutting saves gas. The building blocks thinks in the significance of documentary film and capability to have an optimistic social impact." Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

New DVD & Blu-ray Releases, Week of Nov. 22: 'Super 8,' 'Sarah's Key,' 'Conan the Barbarian'

Things are beginning to pick up on the home entertainment front this week: There's two best bets for your viewing enjoyment -- 'Super 8' and 'Sarah's Key' -- as well as a handful of interesting titles that should keep you busy every night this week -- until next Tuesday's onslaught of new releases. Read on. 'Super 8' What It's About: This homage of sorts to the kids-coming-of-age movies of the 1980s (think 'Stand by Me,' 'Goonies') concerns a group of small-town kids in 1979 who witness a catastrophic train crash while making a Super 8 zombie movie. They then discover that the train was carrying a cargo more terrifying than any of them could have imagined -- and it's been let loose on the countryside. It turns out that an extraterrestrial had been captured by the U.S. government and was being transported to a new location -- and the train crash wasn't accidental. With people and animals disappearing at an alarming rate, the kids pool their resources to aid the local deputy in preventing a major disaster. It's Kinda Like: 'E.T.' meets 'Predator' What We Say: 'Super 8' is the latest in a long line of films in which a bunch of kids get together to solve a problem adults can't understand or handle properly (they're either too mean or too stupid) -- it honors a tradition extending from 'The Blob' and 'Invasion of the Saucer Men' to 'E.T.' and 'The Monster Squad.' Director J.J. Abrams, of course, sides with the kids, clearly taking a page from producer Steven Spielberg's never-want-to-grow-up notebook. He understands the dynamics of kids growing pains, blossoming young love and alienation, and here mixes those ingredients with the sci-fi motifs of a rampaging alien (he's one nasty E.T.) for an enjoyable action-thriller. The train crash alone is worth the price of home admission. • Extras: Commentary by J.J. Abrams, deleted scenes and a host of interesting featurettes. Rotten Tomatoes Reviews | Buy DVD | Save DVD to your Netflix queue Watch a trailer: 'Sarah's Key' What It's About: In this drama centered on the tragedy of the Holocaust, Kristin Scott Thomas plays an American journalist who, 67 years after the war ended, uncovers one more missing piece of the story. As she and her family plan to move into an apartment in Paris, she learns the history of the building -- not only its connection to a tragic event that occurred during the Nazi occupation of Paris, but also her husband's family's possible connection to the event as well. The film bounces back and forth in time -- from the incarceration of Jews during WWII, including 10-year-old Sarah and her family, to the present, as Scott Thomas investigates what happened to the former occupants of the apartment. It's Kinda Like: 'Schindler's List' meets 'Tell No One' What We Say: There's always room for more stories about the Holocaust, particularly if they're well-written, directed and acted. 'Sarah's Key' scores only on one of these three points, however: the acting is top notch, but the storyline and direction at times lacks the dramatic punch that befits a film that's basically a tragic mystery. When Scott Thomas slowly works her way toward solving the story's central conceit, the film's pace almost slows to a halt. Though almost low-key to a fault, we'll forgive its sins to get to the involving, poignant Holocaust tale. • Extras: A behind-the-scenes featurette. Rotten Tomatoes Reviews | Buy DVD | Save DVD to your Netflix queue Watch a trailer: Other New November 22 Releases: 'The Adventures of Tintin: Season One': (2011) To prepare for Steven Spielberg's 'The Adventures of Tintin,' due Dec. 23, you might want to take a look at the precursor, 'The Adventures of Tintin,' adapted from the long-running French comic strip and graphic novels (begun in the 1920s) by the late cartoon artist Herge (a.k.a. Georges Remi) that chronicles the young and intrepid investigative reporter Tintin and his faithful dog Snowy, as they embark on incredible globe-trotting adventures full of excitement, mystery and fun. The first season of the 1991 animated TV series has just been released as a two-disc set with 13 episodes. 'Becoming Santa': (2011) A humorous documentary that follows one man's journey to regain his Christmas spirit. After Jack Sanderson's parents died, he realized he wasn't looking forward to the holidays and, in a dominant commercial culture, avoiding Christmas seemed impossible. So with that, Jack decided that the best way to get through the Christmas Season was to become Santa Claus. Director Jeff Myers followed Jack on his journey, which entailed getting a custom Santa suit from Adele Saidy of Adele's of Hollywood, attending the American Events Santa School taught by Susen Mesco in Denver, Col., and ultimately booking Santa jobs. 'Carjacked': (2011) During a routine stop at a gas station, Lorraine (Maria Bello), a vulnerable single mom, and her 5-year-old son (Connor Hill), are carjacked by Roy (Stephen Dorff), a vicious bank robber on the run who forces her to drive him to meet up with his accomplice. 'Conan the Barbarian': (2011) Hey Conan fans: The legendary Barbarian is back -- big time. Spiffy special effects (and lots of blood and guts) makes the Cimmerian warrior come alive on the big screen as he grows from a killer-of-a-boy to a grown-up killer-of-a-warrior who has to save the world from a power hungry warlord who slaughters all in his path -- including Conan's family and village. Not for the queasy. Watch an exclusive clip: 'The Devil's Double': (2011) Dominic Cooper gives a tour-de-force performance as both Uday Hussein, Saddam Hussein's reckless, sadistic party-boy son who has a rabid hunger for sex and brutality; and Latif Yahia, an Iraqi army lieutenant ordered to become the 'fiday' -- or body double -- to the notorious "Black Prince" in 1987. It's kinda like 'Scarface' set in Iraq with Cooper as a Middle-Eastern Tony Montana. It's based on a true story -- and is brutally violent. 'The Family Tree': (2011) When a bizarre accident leaves desperate housewife Bunnie with a case of amnesia, her dysfunctional family -- consisting of husband, Jack and twin 17-year-olds Eric and Kelly -- gets an unexpected second chance at happiness in this offbeat comedy. Stars Hope Davis, Dermot Mulroney, Max Thieriot, Brittany Robertson. 'Helldriver': (2010) After a meteorite crashes into Japan, releasing a toxic ash that turns inhabitants in the northern half of the country into bloodthirsty zombies, a stunning high school girl armed with an artificial heart-powered chainsaw sword leads a motley crew of desperadoes into the zombie-infected wilds to exterminate the zombie queen. This low-budget flick has more ambition than smarts; after the first foray into zombieland, the killings become an endless loop of bloodshed with no rhyme nor reason nor story line. 'Spy Kids: All the Time in the World': (2011) What do you do when a franchise has run its course? Reboot it by bringing in new blood. That's what Robert Rodriguez did with this entry in the once-popular Spy Kid series. But where the previous sequels were giddy with self-referential musings and outlandish villains, this one is downright stupid. Even the presence of Jessica Alba as the spy mom can't enliven the proceedings, which is about an evil villain who is speeding up and destroying all the time in the world. Check out more November 22 DVD releases at OnVideo.

Kidpic trio will have trouble toppling 'Dawn'

"The Muppets" "Arthur Christmas" A wealth of choices for family auds over Thanksgiving weekend could result in kidpic cannibalization.Disney's "The Muppets" is expected to top Aardman Animation's 3D CGI "Arthur Christmas" and Martin Scorsese's 3D f/x-laden "Hugo." But B.O. observers aren't expecting Kermit and the gang to beat Summit's "Twilight" crew, as holdover "Breaking Dawn -- Part 1" is projected to gross in the $60 millions in five days."The Muppets," which bows today at 3,440 locations, should earn somewhere north of $40 million through Sunday, according to pre-weekend tracking services.B.O. pundits expect Sony's "Arthur Christmas," which cost a reported $98 million, to earn between $15 million and $17 million in five days at 3,376 locations, while Paramount's "Hugo," made by GK Films for a pricey $170 million, is tracking on the soft side in the low double digits, though it opens at just 1,277 locations. All three wide openers are seeing more positive reviews than the average family pic, which could add to wider appeal.Overseas B.O. won't see a similar holiday boost, and "Breaking Dawn" should win again after last weekend's $152.9 million international bow."Arthur Christmas" bows day-and-date in Australia, France and Japan, while "The Muppets" launches only in Mexico.Disney has a steady track record at the Thanksgiving box office.Last year, Disney's "Tangled" started out strong with a five-day take of $53.7 million. But that wasn't enough to beat "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2," which collected $75 million in its second outing.Given the multi-generational appeal for "The Muppets," budgeted at a relatively inexpensive $45 million, some bizzers say the film could outdo expectations and appeal to both kids and their parents who grew up with the property. Disney has flexed considerable marketing muscle in promoting the live action/puppet film, which stars Amy Adams and Jason Segel, to older teens and college-age students. For instance, the Muppets, who became popular through their "Sesame Street" appearances before getting their own show in 1976 -- recently appeared on such late-night shows as "Saturday Night Live" and "Chelsea Lately."The Mouse is being more modest with its predictions in the high $30 millions.Thanksgiving B.O. usually starts strong on Wednesday, tapers off slightly on the holiday itself, and then picks up again over the weekend."Breaking Dawn" should see a similar three-day week-to-week drop as "New Moon," which fell 72% this weekend in 2009. "New Moon" debuted with $143 million; "Breaking Dawn" collected $138 million opening weekend and has tallied so far almost $148 million.The penultimate "Twilight" pic has little competition among teen girls. That's not the case with family films -- in addition to the trio of new entries, holdovers like "Happy Feet Two" and "Puss in Boots" will also look to lure tots. The former pic bowed last weekend to a soft $21 million in three days, but should hold steady, with a projected five-day take in the mid-$20 millions."Happy Feet Two" has cumed nearly $23 million through Tuesday; "Puss in Boots" approaches $125 million domestically.Both "Arthur Christmas" and "Hugo" are tracking best with families, though "Hugo" could also pick up adult Scorsese fans.3D likely will have a marginal effect on both films. Last weekend, "Happy Feet" earned just 50% of its opening from 3D -- similar to "Puss in Boots" at 51%. That's better than some of the summer's 3D toons (i.e. "Cars 2"), but down significantly from this time last year with films like "Megamind" and "Tangled.""Arthur Christmas" bows at 2,378 3D locations; "Hugo" has approximately 1,000 3D locations. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

Woodsy Woodpecker Movie Developing at Universal

Guess who? Based on the Hollywood Reporter, Universal and Illumination Entertainment -- the animation hub behind 'Despicable Me' and 'Hop' amongst others -- will synergy again to make a large-screen version of Woodsy Woodpecker. Debuting in 1940 (using the voice of Mel Blanc), the Woodsy Woodpecker cartoons rose to prominence through the next two decades. Plenty of which had related to the cartoon's legendary theme, the only real song ever from the video clip to obtain nominated to have an Academy Award. Arrived at for comment, the film-less Porky Pig stated, "That's all, folks," before storming away. [via THR/Warmth Vision] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Pamela Anderson to Play Virgin Mary in Christmas TV Show

TORONTO - Yes, that Virgin Mary.our editor recommendsPamela Anderson returns to TVPamela Anderson's marriage annulled Former Baywatch star Pamela Anderson, famed for nude photo shoots and a homemade porn video with Tommy Lee, is to play mother Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms on Canadian TV this Christmas. PHOTOS: Models Turned Movie Stars Anderson, a native of Canada, will headline A Russell Peters Christmas Special for CTV and The Comedy Network, where she will appear in a sketch comedy scene set in a Christmas manger with Canadian funnyman Russell Peters, who is hosting the one-hour special to bow here on December 1. STORY: Pamela Anderson Gets Indian Makeover for TV Turn A Russell Peters Christmas Special will also star Michael Bublé, Ted Lange (The Love Boat), Saturday Night Live alumnus Jon Lovitz and Scott Thompson (The Kids in the Hall). STORY: Pamela Anderson And Russell Peters In Xmas Sketch Comedy Routine The Canadian show will feature a mix of stand-up and sketch comedy, stop-motion animation and musical performances. A Russell Peters Christmas Special is produced by Round 2 It Entertainment, Peters' production shingle, CPI Pictures and Insight Productions. Related Topics Pamela Anderson International Michael Buble CTV

Fake 'Jack and Jill' Twitter Account: Funnier Than the Movie? [UPDATE]

Because the day wouldn't be complete without another 'Jack and Jill' post: some merry pranksters have set up a fake account for the critically-destroyed film on Twitter. "NO SPOILERS, but there's a HUGE athlete cameo in 'Jack & Jill,'" reads the feed. "His name rhymes with Paquille So Real, but that's all we're saying!!!! Pls RT." Funny, or as @JackNJillMovie would say, "LOL. Just thinking about something from #JackAndJill LOL!!!" No word who is controlling the fake Twitter account (unfortunately, it probably isn't Armond White), but, well played all involved. You can follow the fake account for all your snarky 'Jack and Jill' needs by clicking here. 'Jack and Jill' is in theaters now. UPDATE: The account has been shut down, so don't bother following that link unless you find error screens hilarious. EARLIER: The only positive reviews for 'Jack and Jill' [Photo: Sony] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

R.I.P. Hal Kanter

Veteran film writer, producer and directort Hal Kanter died Sunday of complications of pneumonia in Encino, his daughter Donna Kanter told the La Occasions. He was 92. “He was one among the wits of the profession,” stated Carl Reiner, upon learning of Kanter’s dying.”He would be a funny elder statesman, there’s nothing better.”In work that spanned several decades, Kanter labored in radio, TV and films. He authored for Bob Hope and Bing Crosby as well as for Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin. Kanter directed Elvis in Loving You which ones he co-authored and that he authored the screenplaly for Blue Hawaii. He even worked with with Tennessee Williams around the 1955 movie version from the Rose Tatoo. Among other movie credits wereGeorge Cukor’s Let’s Have Sex, with Marilyn Monroe and Yves Montand and Frank Capra’s Pocketful of Miracles. His numerous TV credits incorporated development of the landmark sitcom Julia, that DiahannCarroll grew to become the very first black actress to star in their sitcom whose character would be a professional lady as opposed to a maid. Younger crowd labored briefly on All in the household and would be a author and produceer on Chico and also the Guy.His connection to the Academy awards like a author around the ceremony started in 1952 if this still on radio and ongoing in excess of 3 decades. In 1991 and 󈨠 he shared Emmys for writing responsibilities around the Oscar show telecast. His other Emmy was for that George Gobel Show. Kanter seemed to be very mixed up in Authors Guild of America which honored him multiple occasions for his plan to the guild, the and also the community. The WGA West recognized Kanter for lifetime achievement wtih the Paddy ChayevskyLaurel Award for Television (an eternity achievement jerk) in 1989. Reiner noted thatKanter also offered as master of events for that Company directors Guild of America’s honours dinner for several years. “Any age of known as upon, he always might make the crowd laugh.”He located numerous Authors Guild events too. He's made it by his longtime wife Doris, kids Donna Kanter, Lisa Kanter Shafer and Abigail Kanter Jaye, a sister along with a daughter.

Adele Has Vocal Cord Surgery In Boston

First Published: November 7, 2011 3:34 PM EST Credit: FilmMagic BOSTON, Mass. -- Caption Adele arrives at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards at the Nokia Theatre, L.A. Live, Los Angeles, Aug. 28, 2011Adele has undergone throat surgery to stop a recurrent condition that caused her to cancel tour dates and promotional appearances for the rest of the year. A spokesman for Massachusetts General Hospital says the British singer underwent vocal cord microsurgery to stop recurrent bleeding from a benign polyp. The condition is usually the result of unstable blood vessels in the vocal cord that can rupture. The hospital says the 23-year-old Grammy winner came to Boston to undergo the surgery with Dr. Steven Zeitels, director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Voice Center. Thehospital says Zeitels expects Adele to make a full recovery from the laser microsurgery. Columbia Records announced last month that the Rolling in the Deep singer would have throat surgery. Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Phase 4 Builds up All U . s . States Rights to 'Hick'

Phase 4 Films has acquired all U.S. and Canadian rights to director Derick Martini's Toronto Film Festival entry Hick, starring Chloe Sophistication Moretz, Blake Lively, Eddie Redmayne, Juliette Lewis and Alec Baldwin.our editor recommendsHick: Toronto Review Phase 4 leader-Boss Berry Meyerowitz introduced the sale with Hick Picture Productions leader Charles P Portes. A spring 2012 release is planned. Good book of same title by Andrea Portes, Hick is about a 13-year-old girl (Moretz) who, frustrated with fending for herself and her mother's penchant for hard-consuming males, hits the road expecting as being a celebrity. In route, she meets a drifter getting a nick on his shoulder (Redmayne) together with a troubled but spirited lady (Lively) who takes the woman under her wing. "We've had Derek Martini on our radar since he became a member of the scene along with his edgy film Lymelife," Meyerowitz mentioned. "Hick is certainly an incredible, pull no punches adventure which we could not request anymore gifted cast." The sale was talked about by Phase 4 senior v . p . of acquistions Ray Greenberg, Cassian Elwes of CAA and Graham Taylor at WME regarding the filmmakers. Related Subjects Blake Lively Chloe Moretz

Google Eyes Potential Method To Deliver Cable Tv Services To Clients

Google Corporation. is concentrating on a means to provide paid out cable tv services to clients, the Wall Street Journal reviews, incorporated inside a formerly introduced project to create a great high-speed fiber optic service in metropolitan Might. The procedure would involve combinging Internet, video and speak to services similar to cable and telecom companies, and Google has received exploratory talks with Wally Disney Co., Time Warner Corporation. and Discovery Communications about delivering Television stations inside the video service. In September Google hired former cable tv executive Jeremy Stern, who's leading people discussions. Google’s actions could accelerate your competitors for just about any share in the greater than $150 billion every year that traditional TV inside the U.S. receives from entrepreneurs and clients needing to pay monthly costs. Already the finest seller of Web ads, Google wants numerous people TV dollars. Telephone and satellite companies way back when began competingagainst cable systemswith bundled up up communications and TV funnel options. Amazon . com . com.com is bulking up its content along with Dish, and Netflix remains formidable despite disastrous problems. Apple is another good competitor through iTunes and potentially, Apple TV furthermore for the already very popular iPad that shows no signs and signs and symptoms of slowing down lower. Comcast together with other cable companies are moving to solidify their hold by creating their unique programs and obtaining Internet rights to content. Though this latest plan,Google could undercut its rivals where it could really hurt — their subscription costs. Might was among 1,100 cities that lobbied being the initial test industry for Google Fiber — which since the title indicates would use fiber optic cables that have greatly more data capacity than coaxial cable or telephone lines, the Might Star notes responding for the Journal report. That project props up promise of1 gigabit per second uploads and downloads. Yahoo is talking about handful of nuances of their plans for Might on both sides in the Missouri River, which separates the larger city round the Missouri side in the Kansas neighbor. Google has only mentioned itsInternet service might be listed similar to much reduced speed traditional delivery, so it would most likely be accessible in a few areas of Might, Kansas, noisy . 2012.

At Actorfest LA, Uncover the key to Success in Voice-Over

At Actorfest LA, Uncover the key to Success in Voice-Over November 2, 2011 Inside the Succeeding in Voice-over panel at Actorfest LA, six industry professionals offer the insider's take a look at the required steps to achieve success just like a voice-over actor. Learn how to get cast just like a Voice-Over Actor in Ads and also on Radio and TV.Voicebank's Boss Rob Hixon leads this panel of top casting company company directors, voice-over artists, and agents, and so they shares their finest advice on entering this lucrative area, including the best way to create a career in voice-over.Sound system include: -- Rob Hixon, Boss, Voicebank-- David Stieve, Voice-over Agent, Also called Talent Agency-- Terry Berland, Casting Director, Terry Berland Casting-- Ron Zieff, Producer, Director, Casting Director, Voice-over Talent and Coach-- Bill Ratner, Actor-- Ashley Russo, ActorTo subscribe to this dynamic workshop, visit actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com.Actorfest LA, that's introduced for you personally by Back Stage, the Actor's Resource, will occur on Saturday, November fifth within the California Market Center in downtown La. To help kickstart your work, Actorfest provides a lot more than 24 exclusive Courses Casting Calls Meet & Drops with Top Casting Company company directors a Networking Caf plus an enormous Exhibit Hall, where you'll talk to acting teachers, coaches, schools, headshot photography fanatics, plus much more providers who will help you achieve your work.To link up for Actorfest LA, take a look at actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit internet.ActorfestLA.com. When you register, take full advantage of our special limited-time subscription offers.Enjoy every day at Actorfest! At Actorfest LA, Uncover the key to Success in Voice-Over November 2, 2011 Inside the Succeeding in Voice-over panel at Actorfest LA, six industry professionals offer the insider's take a look at the required steps to be successful just like a voice-over actor. Learn how to get cast just like a Voice-Over Actor in Ads and also on Radio and TV.Voicebank's Boss Rob Hixon leads this panel of top casting company company directors, voice-over artists, and agents, and so they shares their utmost advice on entering this lucrative area, including building operate in voice-over.Sound system include: -- Rob Hixon, Boss, Voicebank-- David Stieve, Voice-over Agent, Also called Talent Agency-- Terry Berland, Casting Director, Terry Berland Casting-- Ron Zieff, Producer, Director, Casting Director, Voice-over Talent and Coach-- Bill Ratner, Actor-- Ashley Russo, ActorTo subscribe to this dynamic workshop, visit actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com.Actorfest LA, that's introduced for you personally by Back Stage, the Actor's Resource, will occur on Saturday, November fifth within the California Market Center in downtown La. To help kickstart your work, Actorfest provides a lot more than 24 exclusive Courses Casting Calls Meet & Drops with Top Casting Company company directors a Networking Caf plus an enormous Exhibit Hall, where you'll talk to acting teachers, coaches, schools, headshot photography fanatics, plus much more providers who will help you achieve your work.To link up for Actorfest LA, take a look at actorfestla2011.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit internet.ActorfestLA.com. When you register, take full advantage of our special limited-time subscription offers.Enjoy every day at Actorfest!