Screenwriter’s Weekly News Wrap-up for Monday, September 30, 2024
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EMMY WINNERS
Best Writing for a Drama Series
Peter Morgan, Meriel Sheibani-Clare (The Crown, Netflix)
Geneva Robertson-Dworet, Graham Wagner (Fallout, Prime Video)
Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video)
Rachel Kondo, Justin Marks (Shogun, FX)
Rachel Kondo, Caillin Puente (Shogun, FX)
Will Smith (Slow Horses, Apple TV+) (WINNER)
Best Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
Richard Gadd (Baby Reindeer, Netflix) (WINNER)
Charlie Brooker (Black Mirror, Netflix)
Noah Hawley (Fargo, FX)
Ron Nyswaner (Fellow Travelers, Showtime)
Steven Zaillian (Ripley, Netflix)
Issa López (True Detective: Night Country, HBO/Max)
Best Writing for a Comedy Series
Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary, ABC)
Christopher Storer (The Bear, FX)
Meredith Scardino, Sam Means (Girls5eva, Netflix)
Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky (Hacks, HBO/Max) (WINNER)
Chris Kelly, Sarah Schneider (The Other Two, HBO/Max)
Jake Bender, Zach Dunn (What We Do in the Shadows, FX)
Best Drama Series
The Crown (Netflix)
Fallout (Prime Video)
The Gilded Age (HBO)
The Morning Show (Apple TV+)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith (Prime Video)
Shogun (FX) (WINNER)
Slow Horses (Apple TV+)
3 Body Problem (Netflix)
Best Comedy Series
Abbott Elementary (ABC)
The Bear (FX)
Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO/Max)
Hacks (HBO/Max) (WINNER)
Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)
Palm Royale (Apple TV+)
Reservation Dogs (FX)
What We Do in the Shadows (FX)
Best Limited or Anthology Series
Baby Reindeer (Netflix) (WINNER)
Fargo (FX)
Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV+)
Ripley (Netflix)
True Detective: Night Country (HBO/Max)
Best Scripted Variety Series
Last Week Tonight With John Oliver (HBO/Max) (WINNER)
Saturday Night Live (NBC)
◊YMU Signs Writer & ‘Big Shaq’ Comedian Michael Dapaah
https://deadline.com/2024/09/ymu-signs-michael-dapaah-big-shaq-1236088225/
YMU has signed Michael Dapaah, the writer, actor, and viral comedian best known for his “Big Shaq” character, whose hit song Man’s Not Hot gained massive popularity with over 410 million YouTube views and 500 million streams. Dapaah first came to prominence with his YouTube mockumentary series Somewhere in London (SWIL), which follows young Londoners, including Big Shaq. He has also appeared in the BBC One drama Noughts + Crosses and worked with major brands like Nike, Apple, and McDonald’s. Dapaah expressed excitement about joining YMU and collaborating on the next phase of his entertainment career. This signing marks YMU’s continued expansion, following recent hires and co-management agreements in 2024 .
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◊Tim Meadows to Star in CBS Comedy ‘DMV’
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/tim-meadows-cbs-comedy-pilot-dmv-1236000809/
Tim Meadows has been cast as the lead in the CBS comedy pilot DMV, a single-camera show that takes place in a department of motor vehicles office. Created by Dana Klein (Friends, 9JKL), the series will feature Meadows as Gregg, a former high school teacher now working as a DMV examiner who prefers to breeze through his day with minimal effort. Known for his roles on Saturday Night Live and The Goldbergs, Meadows will bring his signature humor to the quirky workplace setting. DMV is based on a short story by Katherine Heiny, with executive producers Aaron Kaplan, Wendi Trilling, and Robyn Meisinger. The show is part of CBS’s lineup of comedy projects in development, alongside Eternally Yours and Area 51.
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◊‘S-Town’ TV Show in the Works From Apple, Host Says
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/s-town-tv-show-in-the-works-from-apple-1236001212/
Apple TV+ is moving forward with a limited series adaptation of the hit 2017 podcast S-Town, according to host Brian Reed. This version will have a new creative team, with Damages and Bloodline co-creator Daniel Zelman developing the project. The original podcast, produced by the creators of Serial and This American Life, focused on the complex life of John B. McLemore, an eccentric clock restorer living in rural Alabama. The podcast achieved major success, breaking records with millions of downloads and receiving critical acclaim as a groundbreaking work in audio storytelling. The project had previously faced legal challenges from McLemore’s estate and was initially in development as a film, with Spotlight director Tom McCarthy and The Whale playwright Samuel Hunter attached. However, the adaptation is now being reworked for television following a settlement. Additionally, Reed is also developing a series adaptation of The Trojan Horse Affair, another podcast he co-created, which will star Riz Ahmed .
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◊Box Office: Revenge of the Franchises
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/box-office-summer-hits-franchises-1236001174/
The 2024 box office has seen a strong resurgence driven by franchise films, despite concerns about franchise fatigue in recent years. Major IPs like Alien: Romulus, Inside Out 2, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and Deadpool & Wolverine have contributed to a domestic gross of $5.4 billion by early September, led by Disney’s massive success. Pixar’s Inside Out 2 notably became the highest-grossing animated film of all time, earning $1.675 billion globally. Other summer hits include A Quiet Place: Day One, Twisters, and Bad Boys: Ride or Die, reflecting a trend where established franchises continue to dominate, even outperforming box office expectations across studios.
Additionally, upcoming films like Joker: Folie à Deux and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice are expected to extend the franchise momentum into the fall season, testing the endurance of these brands in a highly competitive market. Studios are also eyeing older franchises, such as Terminator, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Matrix, for possible revivals.
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◊Alex Mahon: Channel 4 Is Starting To “Buy Bigger Again” After “Horrendous” Time For UK Producers
https://deadline.com/2024/09/alex-mahon-channel-4-horrendous-time-producers-1236091454/
At the RTS London Convention, Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon announced the broadcaster’s renewed commitment to investing in larger projects following a challenging period marked by significant budget cuts and a halt in content spending. Mahon acknowledged the difficult relationship with UK producers during this time, as Channel 4’s financial struggles included job cuts and canceled shows. She expressed understanding of producers’ frustrations and highlighted the recent resurgence in advertising revenue, which has allowed the network to improve its spending strategy. This shift could signal new opportunities for screenwriters and creators seeking to develop ambitious projects with Channel 4, especially as the market stabilizes.
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◊‘Baby Reindeer’ Star and Emmy Winner Richard Gadd Signs Multi-Year, First-Look Deal With Netflix
Richard Gadd, the star of the acclaimed series “Baby Reindeer,” has signed a multi-year, first-look deal with Netflix, as confirmed by co-CEO Ted Sarandos at the Royal Television Society London Convention. Gadd’s series, based on his real-life experiences and original stage play, garnered 11 Emmy nominations, with Gadd winning two for acting and writing. The show follows Gadd as he navigates a disturbing stalker situation, combining dark comedy and personal storytelling. This deal positions Gadd as a significant voice in scripted content, promising fresh narratives for Netflix and offering opportunities for screenwriters inspired by his unique blend of humor and authenticity.
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◊James Cameron to Direct ‘Ghosts Of Hiroshima’ After ‘Avatar’ Sequels
James Cameron is set to direct “Ghosts of Hiroshima,” adapting Charles Pellegrino’s upcoming book, which details the harrowing experiences of Tsutomu Yamaguchi, the only person known to survive both atomic bombings in Japan during World War II. This film will mark Cameron’s first project outside the “Avatar” franchise since 1997’s “Titanic.” The adaptation aims to explore profound historical themes while highlighting the personal story of resilience and survival. With Cameron’s reputation for epic storytelling and his previous successes in the genre, this project presents a significant opportunity for screenwriters and filmmakers interested in tackling impactful narratives rooted in real events.
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◊‘The Sims’ Movie From ‘Loki’ Director Kate Herron Lands at Amazon MGM
A film adaptation of the popular video game franchise “The Sims” is in development at Amazon MGM Studios, directed by Kate Herron, known for her work on Disney+‘s “Loki.” Herron is co-writing the script with Briony Redman, and both will serve as executive producers alongside production companies LuckyChap and Vertigo Entertainment. This project follows the extensive history of “The Sims,” allowing for a creative exploration of virtual lives and relationships, which could inspire screenwriters to engage with themes of identity and community in storytelling. Herron’s previous successes and the backing of experienced producers enhance the potential for a compelling narrative that resonates with both fans of the game and broader audiences.
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◊Jennifer Lopez, Brett Goldstein to Star in Netflix Rom-Com ‘Office Romance’
Jennifer Lopez and Brett Goldstein are set to star in a new Netflix romantic comedy titled “Office Romance.” Goldstein, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” is co-writing the script with Joe Kelly, who also worked on the acclaimed series. While plot details remain under wraps, the collaboration signals a strong blend of talent, with Lopez’s experience in romantic comedies like “The Wedding Planner” and “Maid in Manhattan,” and Goldstein’s recent accolades, including two Emmy Awards. Lopez’s upcoming projects also include the sports drama “Unstoppable,” produced by Ben Affleck, further establishing her as a prominent figure in the industry.
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◊John Cena to Star in ‘Matchbox,’ Based on Mattel Car Toyline
John Cena is set to star in “Matchbox,” a live-action film based on the classic Mattel car toyline, with Apple Original Films acquiring the project. Directed by Sam Hargrave, known for the “Extraction” films, the screenplay is penned by David Coggeshall and Jonathan Tropper, who has credits including “The Adam Project.” While plot details are currently under wraps, this marks the first major film adaptation of Matchbox, which has been a beloved brand since its inception in 1953. The film is produced by Skydance and Mattel Films, continuing the collaboration between Skydance and Apple, which has several other projects in the pipeline. Cena, recognized for his roles in both film and wrestling, recently starred in Amazon’s “Jackpot” and is also involved in the second season of HBO Max’s “Peacemaker.”
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◊Paramount+ Greenlights Australian Thriller Series ‘Playing Gracie Darling’
Paramount+ has greenlit “Playing Gracie Darling,” a six-part supernatural thriller created and written by Miranda Nation, known for “Undertow.” The series, set to debut in 2025, follows the mysterious disappearance of a teenage girl during a séance and its haunting repercussions decades later. Morgana O’Reilly leads the cast as Joni, a child psychologist returning to her hometown to confront her past, alongside Rudi Dharmalingam, Celia Pacquola, Annie Maynard, and Anne Tenney. Directed by Jonathan Brough, the series combines elements of mystery, family drama, and coming-of-age themes, with executive producers praising its unique genre blend. The project has received support from key Australian agencies, highlighting its potential to captivate audiences both locally and internationally.
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◊David Handelman, Writer on Four Aaron Sorkin TV Series, Dies at 63
David Handelman, a notable writer on several acclaimed Aaron Sorkin TV series, passed away at 63 due to complications from Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia. His impressive career included writing for “Sports Night,” “The West Wing,” “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,” and “The Newsroom,” among others. Handelman transitioned from print journalism, where he wrote for Rolling Stone and Vogue, to television after his spec script for “The Larry Sanders Show” caught Sorkin’s attention. In addition to his work on major series, he contributed to “One Tree Hill,” “Nashville,” and CNN’s “Smerconish.” Handelman was celebrated in a memorial service attended by many industry peers, and he is survived by his wife and daughters.
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◊Kay Scarpetta Series Starring Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis a Go at Amazon
Amazon Prime Video has officially ordered two seasons of “Scarpetta,” a crime drama based on Patricia Cornwell’s best-selling novels featuring medical examiner Kay Scarpetta. Nicole Kidman stars as the titular character, with Jamie Lee Curtis playing her sister, Dorothy, and both are also executive producers. The series, produced by Blumhouse Television and Amazon MGM Studios, features an ensemble cast that includes Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Ariana DeBose, among others. Liz Sarnoff, known for her work on “Barry” and “Lost,” is adapting the novels and will serve as showrunner, while David Gordon Green directs the first two episodes. Kidman has pursued this project for nearly 20 years, expressing excitement about bringing Scarpetta to life and collaborating with such a talented team. Cornwell herself has expressed gratitude for the project, which promises a blend of crime and character-driven storytelling.
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◊Jameela Jamil, Lucien Laviscount and More Join Cast of ‘People We Meet on Vacation’ Adaptation
Netflix has announced the casting of Sarah Catherine Hook, Jameela Jamil, Lucien Laviscount, and Lukas Gage for the film adaptation of Emily Henry’s best-seller “People We Meet on Vacation.” They join Tom Blyth and Emily Bader, who will portray the romantic leads, Poppy and Alex, respectively. Directed by Brett Haley, the story follows two best friends who reconnect on a vacation after two years of silence, navigating the complexities of their relationship. Yulin Kuang is adapting the screenplay, with producers from Temple Hill overseeing the project. This adaptation is part of a broader initiative to bring several of Henry’s novels to screen, including “Beach Read” and “Happy Place.”
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◊Sosie Bacon Opioid Drama ‘Hazard’ Lands Early 2025 Release
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/hazard-sosie-bacon-release-trailer-1236005954/
Sosie Bacon and Alex Roe star in “Hazard,” a drama directed by Eddie Mensore, which addresses the opioid crisis in an Appalachian mining town. The film, set for a theatrical release on January 10, 2025, has been picked up by Emphatic Pictures and RBL Films and will premiere at the Woodstock Film Festival on October 18. The story follows Will (Roe), a reluctant drug dealer grappling with his family’s addiction while trying to carve out a living. Mensore, who previously directed “Mine 9,” also produced this film alongside Bacon and Roe. Bacon gained recognition from her role in “Smile,” while Roe has appeared in “Rings” and the series “Billy the Kid.”
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◊Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding Horror Rom-Com ‘Heart Eyes’ Lands February Release
Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding star in “Heart Eyes,” a horror romantic comedy set for release on February 7, 2025. Directed by Josh Ruben, the film follows two coworkers who are mistaken for a couple by a killer on the loose in Seattle during Valentine’s Day. The cast also includes Gigi Zumbado, Devon Sawa, and Jordana Brewster, with a script co-written by Phillip Murphy, Christopher Landon, and Michael Kennedy. Ruben expressed his excitement for blending the horror and rom-com genres, positioning the film alongside Spyglass’s recent horror hits like “Scream VI.” The release coincides with Universal’s action film “With Love.”
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◊How Superhero Franchise Movies Lost Their Way: “It’s Actual Chaos”
HBO’s upcoming series “The Franchise,” created by Jon Brown, Armando Iannucci, and Sam Mendes, satirizes the chaotic world of superhero movie production. The show features a fictional film, Tecto, about a superhero capable of causing earthquakes, and focuses on the behind-the-scenes struggles of the cast and crew. Mendes, who directs the pilot, emphasizes the absurdity and unpredictability filmmakers face, as revealed through their extensive research. The ensemble includes Billy Magnussen, Richard E. Grant, Daniel Brühl, and Himesh Patel, portraying characters like an insecure star and an ambitious producer. The series critiques the industry’s creative challenges while maintaining a hopeful tone, exploring the pressures of making franchise films in a rapidly changing cinematic landscape.
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◊Brian Jordan Alvarez Sees the ‘English Teacher’ Gun Club Episode as “Timeless Enough to Be Timely”
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Brian Jordan Alvarez, creator of FX’s English Teacher, discussed the show’s latest episode, which explores gun clubs in schools through a comedic lens. The episode features Alvarez’s character, Evan, who mistakenly believes a gunshot signals danger, only to discover it’s related to a gym teacher’s gun club. Alvarez aims to balance humor with serious themes, emphasizing empathy and the complexities of activism. He credits his collaboration with talented writers like Dave King for crafting poignant comedic moments while navigating sensitive topics. Reflecting on his creative process, Alvarez notes his desire to create timeless narratives, drawing from his own experiences in a conservative upbringing contrasted with a liberal school environment. He expresses gratitude for the support from executive producers, which fosters a creative space for meaningful storytelling. Alvarez plans to tackle additional contemporary issues in future episodes.
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◊‘Eastern Promises’ Producer Robert Lantos & ‘The Breadwinner’ Scribe Anita Doron Underway In Greece On ‘Maya & Samar’
Robert Lantos, producer of Eastern Promises, and Anita Doron, writer of the Oscar-nominated The Breadwinner, are collaborating on the film Maya & Samar, currently shooting in Athens, Greece. The film, which also features writing by Tamara Faith Berger, stars Nicolette Pearse and Amanda Babaei Vieira. The story revolves around Maya, a journalist exploring sex and music, and Samar, a queer Afghan refugee, whose lives intersect in a passionate affair that highlights cultural conflicts. Doron expressed her excitement about capturing themes of privilege and resilience in a timeless setting, while Lantos praised Berger’s unique narrative style. The production is backed by several partners, including Telefilm Canada and the Greek Film Centre, with filming set to conclude in October 2024.
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◊‘Happy Valley’ Creator Sally Wainwright Unveils Female-Led Cast for BBC Drama ‘Riot Women’
Sally Wainwright, acclaimed creator of Happy Valley and Gentleman Jack, has announced her latest BBC drama, Riot Women, featuring a predominantly female cast. The six-episode series, currently filming in West Yorkshire, stars Joanna Scanlan as Beth, Tamsin Greig as Holly, and Rosalie Craig as Kitty, among others. The plot centers on five women forming a punk-rock band to enter a local talent contest, confronting personal secrets and cultural conflicts along the way. Wainwright expressed her excitement about this project, stating it’s her most thrilling work to date. The series will include original songs from the band ARXX and is set to premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One next year, with distribution in the U.S. and Canada through BritBox International.
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◊‘Magic: The Gathering’ Animated Series Restarts at Netflix
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/magic-the-gathering-animated-series-netflix-1236007655/
Netflix is relaunching its animated series based on Magic: The Gathering, with Terry Matalas, known for Star Trek: Picard, as the new showrunner. This reboot comes after previous versions, initially overseen by the Russo brothers and later by Jeff Klein, were scrapped due to creative differences. While details about the new series remain limited, it will continue to focus on the game’s iconic Planeswalker characters and introduce new ones. Matalas has a strong background in genre television, having also worked on Nikita and 12 Monkeys, and he earned a Writers Guild Award nomination for his work on Picard.
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