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Lionsgate Taps Media Veteran Brad Haugen as EVP, Digital Strategy and Growth

Lionsgate Taps Media Veteran Brad Haugen as EVP, Digital Strategy and Growth

Lionsgate has made a strategic move by appointing digital media veteran Brad Haugen, formerly the president of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Media, as their new executive vice president of digital strategy and growth. This decision underscores Lionsgate's commitment to expanding its influence in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

In his new role, Haugen will spearhead Lionsgate’s original content creation for various digital platforms, manage brand partnerships, and explore innovative "storytelling initiatives." His mission includes leveraging Lionsgate’s extensive film and TV library, which boasts over 20,000 titles, to collaborate with leading digital platforms such as YouTube, Snap, Pinterest, Meta, and TikTok. Additionally, he will work closely with 3 Arts managers to uncover fresh opportunities for their clients, further solidifying their presence in the digital realm.

Jim Packer, Lionsgate president of worldwide television distribution, and Brian Weinstein, co-CEO of 3 Arts Entertainment and senior adviser to the office of the CEO at Lionsgate, expressed their enthusiasm in a joint statement: “Brad’s deep understanding of digital media and the creator economy aligns perfectly with our entrepreneurial culture. His leadership will amplify our efforts to bring some of the world’s most iconic brands and franchises to top digital media platforms, captivating a whole new generation of talent.” They added, “With Brad’s expertise in digital media, brand-building, and talent relationships, we are poised to seize exciting growth opportunities that extend beyond the traditional boundaries of our business.”

Haugen praised Lionsgate’s franchises, including Hunger Games, Twilight, Mad Men, and John Wick, descr

Apr 22, 2025
‘Doc Albany,’ Oscar Winner Ben Proudfoot’s Documentary About Real-Life Inspiration for ‘Doc Hollywood,’ to Premiere at Tribeca Festival

‘Doc Albany,’ Oscar Winner Ben Proudfoot’s Documentary About Real-Life Inspiration for ‘Doc Hollywood,’ to Premiere at Tribeca Festival

Doc Albany,” a short documentary by Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot and the third installment in a film series highlighting the beneficial uses of technology, will world premiere at Tribeca Festival on June 8.

The film will screen at Shorts Theater at Spring Studio at 2:30 p.m.

The documentary delves into the medical community of Albany, Georgia. Dr. Jim Hotz is the founder of Albany Area Primary Health Care, a medical center where Dr. Sheena Favors works as an OB-GYN. Hotz had a hand in establishing the National Health Service Corps, a program from the Health Resources and Services Administration that assigns clinicians to communities in medical deserts and pays off their student debt. Favors served in Albany through the program and then stayed in the community.

“I was taken aback at how much of the United States is a medical desert and what a high percentage of rural counties don’t have access to healthcare and hospitals,” Proudfoot, whose credits include “The Last Repair Shop” and “The Queen of Basketball,” told Variety.

“When I found out about the National Health Service Corps, I just thought that was an amazing program, an amazing solve to a difficult problem,” he added.

The documentary is the final project in the Impact Films initiative, a three-part series by Publicis Sapient that highlights the stories of people whose lives are affected by the technology systems that the company develops or improves for its clients. The previous films in the series, created with Proudfoot’s Breakwater Studios, were “Never Done” and “Forgiving Johnny.”

Publicis Sapient w

Apr 22, 2025
SAG Awards 2026 Set March Date on Netflix

SAG Awards 2026 Set March Date on Netflix

The Screen Actors Guild Awards have officially announced the date for their 32nd annual ceremony: Sunday, March 1, 2026. This event will take place during the final stretch of Academy Awards voting, further cementing the SAG Awards as a pivotal influence in shaping the Oscar race.

Once again, the ceremony will be streamed live on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, continuing its partnership with the streaming giant that began in 2024. The show will celebrate the year’s most outstanding performances in both film and television, with winners chosen by SAG-AFTRA’s more than 122,000 voting members—the largest voting body of any major awards organization.

The timing of the SAG Awards is crucial. Positioned just two weeks before the 97th Oscars, the ceremony serves as a bellwether for Oscar success, especially in the acting categories, which often align closely with Academy voters' preferences. In recent years, victories for actors such as Michelle Yeoh ("Everything Everywhere All at Once"), Brendan Fraser ("The Whale"), Kieran Culkin ("A Real Pain"), and Zoe Saldana ("Emilia Perez") at the SAG Awards were precursors to their eventual Oscar wins, underscoring the guild's predictive power.

The Guild has also released key dates and deadlines for the 2025–2026 SAG Awards season. The official submission window opens on Monday, August 25, 2025, and closes on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 5 p.m. PT. Performances aired or premiered between January 1 and December 31, 2025, are eligible for submission in any category deemed appropriate by actors or their representatives. All submissions must be made online via sagawards.org/submissions.

Nominations will be unveiled on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, setting the stage for what promises to be an inte

Apr 22, 2025
Charlie Polinger’s ‘The Plague,’ Starring Joel Edgerton, Boarded by AGC, Cinetic and UTA Independent Film Group Ahead of Cannes Premiere (EXCLUSIVE)

Charlie Polinger’s ‘The Plague,’ Starring Joel Edgerton, Boarded by AGC, Cinetic and UTA Independent Film Group Ahead of Cannes Premiere (EXCLUSIVE)

Charlie Polinger's debut feature, The Plague, is set to captivate global audiences with its world premiere at Cannes' prestigious Un Certain Regard section. This powerful film will be unveiled to buyers at the Cannes Film Market, where UTA Independent Film Group and Cinetic are co-selling the U.S. rights, while AGC Intl. takes charge of international territories.

Written and directed by Polinger, The Plague features a stellar cast led by the renowned Joel Edgerton (Boy Erased, Black Mass, Loving) alongside an ensemble of promising newcomers including Everett Blunck, Kayo Martin, and Kenny Rasmussen. Together, they weave a narrative that resonates deeply with themes of vulnerability and resilience.

At its core, The Plague tells the poignant story of a 12-year-old boy grappling with the complexities of adolescence amidst the harsh social dynamics of an all-boys water polo summer camp. Pulled into a cruel tradition targeting an outcast rumored to have "The Plague," the protagonist finds himself caught in a labyrinth where the boundaries between game and reality blur. His growing unease reveals fears that the jest may conceal a chilling truth, leaving audiences questioning the nature of innocence and cruelty.

The film is brought to life through the collaborative efforts of esteemed production companies Spooky Pictures, Hellcat, The Space Program, Five Henrys Productions, and Image Nation. Produced by luminaries such as Lizzie Shapiro (Shiva Baby, Sasquatch Sunset), Lucy McKendrick, Edgerton (The King, The Gift, Boy Erased), Steven Schneider (Strange Darling), Roy Lee (Barbarian), and Derek Dauchy (Late Night With the Devil), it benefits from the guidance of executive producers Ben Ross, Rami Yasin, Gabi Antal, Reuben Walker, Cullen

Apr 22, 2025
‘Avatar’ and ‘Titanic’ Producer Jon Landau Memoir: Cover First Look (EXCLUSIVE)

‘Avatar’ and ‘Titanic’ Producer Jon Landau Memoir: Cover First Look (EXCLUSIVE)

Apr 22, 2025
Documentary on Hollywood Blonde Bombshell Mamie Van Doren in the Works (EXCLUSIVE)

Documentary on Hollywood Blonde Bombshell Mamie Van Doren in the Works (EXCLUSIVE)

Production has commenced on a documentary that promises to delve into the captivating life of Hollywood icon Mamie Van Doren, an enduring symbol of glamour and resilience.

Titled “Mamie Exposed! The Life and Loves of the Last Blonde Bombshell,” this film is currently being shot in the vibrant locales of Los Angeles and Newport Beach. It will intricately trace Van Doren’s meteoric rise in the glamorous yet challenging world of 1950s Hollywood, following her discovery by the legendary Howard Hughes, while also offering a poignant glimpse into her personal journey.

Van Doren herself is executive producing this project, collaborating with a seasoned team comprising producers Alan Eichler, Stephen Israel, and Marc Saltarelli—who also serves as director. This trio previously earned acclaim for their award-winning 2024 documentary, “Studio One Forever.”

In a heartfelt statement, Mamie Van Doren, now 94, expressed her decision to open up about her storied life: “Throughout my life, I have guarded my privacy fiercely. At this stage, having lived an extraordinary life as the last original Hollywood blonde bombshell, I’ve chosen to share deeply personal stories, secrets, and moments never before revealed. Marc Saltarelli and his remarkable team are not just collaborators but true custodians of my legacy. Together, we aim to unveil and honor a life that has been provocative, entertaining, and unforgettable.”

Born Joan Olander on a South Dakota farm without electricity or running water, Van Doren's journey from humble beginnings to the zenith of Hollywood stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Emerging during the golden era of cinematic glamour in the 1950s and '60s, she became one of the celebrated "Three M's"—Mamie, Marilyn (Monroe), and Jayne (Mansfield)—who epitomized the allure of the "blonde

Apr 22, 2025
Cannes Un Certain Regard Entry ‘Caravan’ From Zuzana Kirchnerová Boarded for World Sales by Alpha Violet (EXCLUSIVE)

Cannes Un Certain Regard Entry ‘Caravan’ From Zuzana Kirchnerová Boarded for World Sales by Alpha Violet (EXCLUSIVE)

The Paris-based sales agency Alpha Violet has secured global distribution rights for “Caravan,” the debut feature film by Czech director Zuzana Kirchnerová. This poignant narrative centers around a mother and her disabled son as they set out on an unforgettable road trip. The film is set to make its world premiere in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival.

Featuring acclaimed Czech actress Aňa Geislerová, best known for her roles in “Havel” and “Anthropoid,” the film portrays a mother who, weary from years of caregiving, embarks on a life-changing journey through Italy with her intellectually disabled son. This deeply personal drama draws inspiration from Kirchnerová’s own experiences as a parent raising a child with Down syndrome and autism.

“Caravan” delves into themes of motherhood and rebellion, marking a significant moment for Czech cinema as it returns to Cannes' official selection after more than three decades. The last major Czech film to appear in the festival's main program was Jan Švankmajer’s “Faust” in 1994.

In her director’s statement, Kirchnerová shared her vision: “Despite the challenging subject matter, I wanted to create a film that embraces lightness, sensuality, and bitter humor.” Her dedication to storytelling earned her recognition previously when she won the Cinéfondation Prize at Cannes in 2009 for her short film “Bába.”

Produced by MasterFilm of the Czech Republic and Slovakia’s Nutprodukcia, with co-production support from Italy’s Tempesta and other collaborators, “Caravan” was filmed across the picturesque Italian regions of Emili

Apr 22, 2025
Mike Flanagan’s ‘Life of Chuck’ to Close Screen Festival of Inaugural SXSW London (EXCLUSIVE)

Mike Flanagan’s ‘Life of Chuck’ to Close Screen Festival of Inaugural SXSW London (EXCLUSIVE)

"The Life of Chuck," the sci-fi drama masterfully crafted by Mike Flanagan, is set to close the inaugural SXSW London. This film, which captivated audiences last year at the Toronto Film Festival, earning its prestigious audience award, will leave a lasting impression as it graces the screen festival's closing night.

Distributed locally by Studiocanal, the film will premiere in the U.K. on June 7, marking the event’s grand finale. Adapted from Stephen King’s 2020 novella of the same name, "The Life of Chuck" stars the illustrious Tom Hiddleston, alongside Mark Hamill, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Karen Gillan, and Jacob Tremblay. The narrative unfolds through three distinct chapters, each told in reverse chronological order, painting a poignant picture of an ordinary man, Charles Krantz, against the backdrop of a world on the brink of collapse. With Neon acquiring the rights for the U.S. after its Toronto success, this film has been likened to King's timeless adaptations such as "Shawshank Redemption" and "Stand By Me," rather than the more chilling "It" or "Pet Sematary." It is slated for release in the U.K. on August 22.

The first SXSW London is scheduled to run from June 2 to 7 in Shoreditch, the U.K. capital's vibrant creative hub. Esteemed speakers like Idris Elba and Gillian Anderson, along with the CEOs of Twitch, WPP, OnlyFans, and Google Deepmind, are set to grace the stage. The conference program will feature an impressive lineup of 420 sessions over four days, spanning 23 tracks across four categories: t

Apr 22, 2025
‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ Trailer: Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. Return in Bloody Slasher Sequel

‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ Trailer: Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. Return in Bloody Slasher Sequel

Some truths are meant to stay buried, but what happens when the past refuses to let go? Sony has unveiled the first trailer for "I Know What You Did Last Summer," a highly anticipated sequel to Jim Gillespie's iconic 1997 slasher. This time around, franchise legends Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. return to breathe life into their unforgettable roles as Julie James and Ray Bronson, carrying with them the weight of secrets long thought buried.

Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and co-written by Robinson and Sam Lansky, this chilling continuation builds upon an initial draft crafted by Robinson and Leah McKendrick, staying true to Lois Duncan’s haunting characters. As the fourth installment in the "I Know What You Did Last Summer" series, it picks up where the original left off—a year after a fateful hit-and-run accident that forever changed the lives of its characters. Now, these friends must confront the ghost of their past: a hook-handed killer who refuses to let them escape their sins.

Joining Hewitt and Prinze Jr. is an ensemble cast of fresh faces, including Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders, Lola Tung, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Austin Nichols, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, Billy Campbell, and Gabbriette. Together, they weave a tapestry of fear and suspense, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the lengths we go to protect our darkest secrets.

The seeds for this sequel were planted in late 2022 when McKendrick and Robinson pitched their vision to bring the story back to life. Neal

Apr 22, 2025
‘Enola Holmes 3’ Set at Netflix; Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Louis Partridge and More Returning

‘Enola Holmes 3’ Set at Netflix; Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Louis Partridge and More Returning

Enola Holmes 3: A New Chapter Unfolds

In a much-anticipated move, "Enola Holmes 3" has officially commenced production in the picturesque landscapes of the U.K. Once again, the talented ensemble cast reunites to bring Netflix's beloved Victorian-era mystery series to life. Millie Bobby Brown, embodying the spirited and resourceful Enola Holmes, joins forces with Louis Partridge as her devoted brother Mycroft, Henry Cavill as the iconic Sherlock Holmes, Helena Bonham-Carter as their enigmatic mother Eudoria Holmes, Himesh Patel as Tewkesbury, and Sharon Duncan-Brewster as Inspector Lestrade. Together, they promise an exhilarating journey filled with intrigue, wit, and heart.

Taking the reins for this installment is director Philip Barantini, whose recent triumph with "Adolescence" shattered Netflix viewing records. He steps into the director’s chair, succeeding Harry Bradbeer, who masterfully helmed the first two films. Collaborating once more with Jack Thorne—his co-writer on "Adolescence"—Barantini brings to life a script that captures the essence of Nancy Springer's "The Enola Holmes Mysteries" book series. With Jack Thorne now penning all three features, fans can expect the same rich storytelling and emotional depth that have defined the franchise thus far.

This third chapter takes Enola Holmes beyond the familiar streets of London, leading her to the sun-drenched shores of Malta. Here, personal aspirations intertwine with professional challenges in a case so intricate and perilous that it tests even the brilliant young detective's limits. As described, this new adventure promises to be more tangled and treachero

Apr 22, 2025