Hollywood's VFX crisis exposed
Hollywood's VFX crisis exposed
And 'Veep' creator's new show sounds great
What to know
Inside Hollywood’s visual effects crisis… Defector’s Drew Magary has a comprehensive and eye-opening story that anyone interested in the entertainment industry should read — especially if you love big franchise movies and shows. Magary interviewed numerous VFX professionals and learned how the post-production workforce is “disparate, overworked, confused, and exploited.” Worst of all, their work is undervalued by the town and consumers. These artists deserve better. 👀
HBO orders superhero movie-making comedy pilot from Armando Ianucci, Sam Mendes to direct… Speaking of how the sausage is made, the creator of Veep is back and I have no doubt that his incisive satire will sink deep into the superhero industrial complex. Like the vice president’s office, superhero movie-making has the perfect blend of big egos who take themselves way too seriously, but are actually stuck in something pretty frivolous. And Sam Mendes is icing on the cake. That said, let’s hope it’s better than his last show, Avenue 5. 🦸
Prey is the best reviewed Predator movie, by far… Has Hollywood finally figured out this reboot thing? Hulu’s Prey, a prequel to 1987’s Predator, has a 92% on RottenTomatoes. Considering the Predator’s previous film appearances range from 12% to the original’s 80%, that’s quite a feat. I wonder if Fox/Disney wishes it had put this one out in theaters rather than streaming? 😮
Scoob! Holiday Haunt records score after being canceled… WBD pulled the plug on this new animated movie at HBO Max, but the musicians and the soundstage were already paid for, so they recorded the score anyway. Why did they do this and not just give everyone the day off? Unclear! 🐶
Andy Serkis creating bio series about Madam Tussaud… There’s something poetic about Serkis, famous for his digital recreations, making a show about someone famous for wax recreations. 🕯
Live-action Pac-Man movie in the works… A live-action what now? 👻
Kaley Cuoco joins Peacock comedy thriller series… She’s found a lane. 🦚
The White Lotus returns in October… Time to pack your suitcase. 🧳
What’s new
I Am Groot — Aug 10 | Disney+ animated shorts | 🍅
13: The Musical — Aug 12 | Netflix musical movie | 🍅
A League of Their Own — Aug 12 | Amazon drama series | 🍅
Bodies Bodies Bodies — Aug 12 | Indie horror in theaters | 🍅 90%
What to watch
Let’s start here, you do not need to run out to the theater to see Bullet Train — but when it hits streaming (or cable for those of you still rocking that linear lifestyle), give it a go. What you’ll find is an abundantly entertaining, colorful romp on a bustling train with a game cast and a real sense of energy. If you’ve got fond memories of Kill Bill, you will find something to like here, be it the eclectic cast of assassins, the odd pop references, or the blending of cultural and genre touchstones. Director David Leitch threw the kitchen sink and then some in the blender and powered it to full speed. Did this movie need the venomous snake? Probably not, but it’s wacky and thrilling. Bullet Train is the cotton candy version of John Wick (which Leitch co-created), it never takes itself too seriously and hopes you won’t either. It’s also bright blue, melts in your mouth, is super sweet, and full of empty calories. Do with those metaphors what you will. Need another comparison? Leitch also directed Deadpool 2, a more apt spiritual cousin. All in all, the movie isn’t asking that much of you, just to turn your brain off for a while and have some fun. Hell, if that’s your idea of a good time maybe you should run out to the theater to see it.
For all past ‘what to watch’ recommendations, see the full list here!