Jordan Peele gets his third consecutive Box Office Smash as Director with latest Feature, NOPE taking top spot in its debut with $44.5 million from 3,785 theatres for Universal Pictures. Not only is it a commercial success, it gets a strong 82% on the Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer. While this doesn’t quite eclipse predecessor Us’ $70 million opening in 2019, this still is impressive.

De-throned to second spot is THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER with $21.2 million in its third weekend, from 4,370 theatres for Disney. This brings its domestic tally to $275 million.

Third is MINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU with $16.8 million for Universal Pictures, taking its run to $299 million.

In fourth is WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING with $9.7 million from 3,650 theatres for Sony Pictures, a total run for $36.7 million.

TOP GUN: MAVERICK continues to hang-on, at the bottom of the Top Five with $9.4 million for Paramount Pictures. To date it has made $635 million in North America.

Woodbine Racetrack are thrilled to announce the launch of their brand-new Stella Artois Terrace. The space formerly known as Champions Bar and Patio, gets a re-brand and a sophisticated makeover with new loungey booths, an elevated Food and Drink menu and festive weekend vibes, with the DJ spinning your favourite Top 40 hits! The Terrace, located on the third floor, launches July 23, 2022 right in time for Woodbine Oaks weekend, just one of the many marquee race cards in the 2022 Thoroughbred meet.

We’re thrilled to have had a chance to preview this amazing space hanging right above Woodbine‘s scenic world-class E.P. Taylor turf course. There isn’t a bad seat in the house, trust me! This is Horse Racing the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

Here’s a small preview of some of our favourites from their brand-new Menu:

There were Desserts too! I tried the Banana Cake which was topped with Rum-flambéed bananas and caramel sauce – nice and not too, too sweet. The Hot Fudge & Hibiscus Sundae was very popular among others, but the real star is the super-decadent and luxuriant Double Chocolate Godiva Cheesecake. We were seriously-strapped for time, but they were so kind to give us takeaway boxes for us to enjoy at home. No stuffiness here, everyone is welcome.

You won’t leave here feeling hungry.

Be patient, this is an afternoon or night out. The food will come when it comes. Have some fun, win some money! Even if you don’t know what you’re doing, there’s always Ambassadors walking around to show you. And if you’re shy, there’s a QR code for you to scan that walks you through it!

Dress code is comfortable but dress to impress. No strict guidelines.

A couple cool Photos Ops at the Stella Artois Terrace, including a Step & Repeat:

You can book a reservation now for the Stella Artois Terrace right here! The amazing weather is only here for a small while more. Don’t miss out!

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Some cool new previews were unveiled today at San Diego Comic-Con. New upcoming Marvel Studios Animation Series were unveiled at I AM GROOT, SPIDER-MAN: FRESHMAN YEAR, X-MEN ’97, MARVEL ZOMBIES and WHAT IF…?.

Here are some of the exciting updates headed our way!

I AM GROOT

“I Am Groot” writer/director/executive producer Kirsten Lepore answered questions about the upcoming series and treated the audience to the trailer and new key art. A surprise screening of one of the shorts, “Groot Takes a Bath,” delighted everyone, and applause greeted the announcement of a second collection of shorts.

There’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So get ready as Baby Groot takes center stage in his very own collection of shorts, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. “I Am Groot,” five original shorts featuring several new and unusual characters, stars everyone’s favorite little tree, Baby Groot, voiced by Vin Diesel, who voices Groot in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise.

The executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum and James Gunn.

“I Am Groot” launches exclusively on Disney+ August 10, with all five shorts available for viewing.

SPIDER-MAN: FRESHMAN YEAR

Jeff Trammell teased the show with the cast of characters, and Ryan Meinerding showed off the new Spider-Man suit designed for the series. A fun reveal was that moderator Paul F. Tompkins will be playing a character in the series. A second season was also announced, aptly titled “Spider-Man: Sophomore Year.”

“Spider-Man: Freshman Year” is an animated series that follows Peter Parker on his way to becoming Spider-Man in the MCU, with a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots. Executive producer Jeff Trammel serves as head writer.

“Spider-Man: Freshman Year” comes exclusively to Disney+ in 2024.

WHAT IF…?

Bryan Andrews and AC Bradley talked about the Emmy-nominated series and showed the trailer for Season Two. The audience went wild when, at the end of the presentation, a surprise screening of one episode of the highly anticipated next season was shown, and a third season was announced.

“What If…?” Season 2 continues the journey with The Watcher as our guide through the vast multiverse, introducing brand new and familiar faces throughout the MCU. The animated series questions, revisits, and twists classic Marvel Cinematic moments with an incredible voice cast that includes a host of stars who reprise their iconic roles. Directed by executive producer Bryan Andrews with executive producer AC Bradley as head writer.

Season two of “What If…?” launches exclusively on Disney+ in early 2023.

MARVEL ZOMBIES

Bryan Andrews offered background on the series and its origins spawning from an episode of “What If…?” Season 1, as well as concept art.

The animated series “Marvel Zombies” from Marvel Studios reimagines the Marvel Universe as a new generation of heroes battle against an ever-spreading zombie scourge. Directed by executive producer Bryan Andrews and written by executive producer Zeb Wells.

“Marvel Zombies” will stream exclusively on Disney+.

X-MEN ’97

Cheers erupted when Brad Winderbaum spoke fondly of the legacy of “X-Men: The Animated Series” and presented a sizzle reel featuring cast and creatives from the popular ‘90s animated show. “X-Men ‘97” writer and executive producer Beau DeMayo then spoke about the new series, shared artwork, and presented an animatic AV piece. DeMayo also mentioned that the show will use the original “X-Men” theme music. A second season was also announced.

“X-MEN ’97” is an animated series from Marvel Studios that explores new stories in the iconic ’90s timeline of the original series. Beau DeMayo is executive producer and head writer.

“X-Men ’97”” will begin streaming exclusively on Disney+ Fall 2023.

Some news coming out of 2022 San Diego Comic-Con today for THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER, the Panel hosted by – surprise – Stephen Colbert!

Presented at the Panel was a brand-new Trailer for the upcoming Series.

Some exciting highlights from the Panel!

• In a surprise and delight moment, The Late Show host—and Tolkien superfan—Stephen Colbert was revealed as the panel’s moderator. He joined series Showrunners J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay, Executive Producer Lindsey Weber, and 21 members of the ensemble cast for a panel that was among the largest for a single-series in San Diego Comic-Con history.

• During the epic 90-minute event, the cast and creators interacted with fans in person for the very first time, discussing their love of J.R.R. Tolkien’s incredible legendarium and the gratifying process of bringing the beloved author’s fabled Second Age to life—from the series’ new and legendary characters, to the incredible realms of Middle-earth, including the island of Númenor, which has never before been seen on screen. 

• A plethora of exclusive sneak peeks and surprises were shared with Hall H fans, including the premiere of an all-new San Diego Comic-Con trailer, which was introduced by Showrunners Payne & McKay. The thrilling trailer focuses on the long-feared reemergence of evil in Middle-earth and gives a first look at some of the spine-tingling characters that the series’ heroes will be battling. 

• In a special Hall H-first moment, Emmy® award-winning composer Bear McCreary, who created the series’ episodic score, took to the stage with a 25-piece orchestra and 16-person choir to treat the audience to an exclusive live performance of highlights of the never-before-heard series soundtrack.

• Additional highlights from the panel include:

• The exclusive reveal of five scenes from the series.

• The participating cast members were: Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Robert Aramayo, Owain Arthur, Maxim Baldry, Nazanin Boniadi, Morfydd Clark, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Charles Edwards, Trystan Gravelle, Ema Horvath, Markella Kavenagh, Tyroe Muhafidin, Sophia Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Megan Richards, Dylan Smith, Charlie Vickers, Leon Wadham, Benjamin Walker, Daniel Weyman, and Sara Zwangobani.

The eagerly awaited The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories around the world in multiple languages on Friday, September 2, 2022 with new episodes available weekly.

Legendary Filmmaker Stephen Spielberg will be at TIFF ’22 with THE FABELMANS! The Film, inspired by his own upbringing stars Michelle Williams, Paul Dano and Seth Rogen. Rogen and Williams last teamed-up on TIFF ’11 selection, TAKE THIS WALTZ.

Synopsis:

A deeply personal portrait of 20th Century American childhood, The Fabelmans is a coming-of-age story about a young man’s discovery of a shattering family secret and an exploration of the power of movies to help us see the truth about each other and ourselves.

The film’s ensemble cast includes four-time Academy Award® nominee Michelle Williams (Manchester by the Sea, My Week with Marilyn); Paul Dano (The Batman, There Will Be Blood); Seth Rogen (Steve Jobs, An American Pickle); Gabriel LaBelle (The Predator, American Gigolo series); Oscar® nominee Jeannie Berlin (The Heartbreak Kid, Inherent Vice); Julia Butters (Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood, 13 Hours); Robin Bartlett (Moonstruck, Lean on Me); Keeley Karsten (Hunters, Evil Lives Here) and Academy Award® nominee Judd Hirsch (Uncut Gems, Ordinary People).

Inspired by Spielberg’s own childhood, The Fabelmans is written by Spielberg and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tony Kushner (Angels in America, Caroline, or Change), who has earned Oscar nominations for his screenplays for Spielberg’s Lincoln and Munich. The film is produced by three-time Oscar® nominee Kristie Macosko Krieger (West Side Story, The Post), Spielberg and Kushner.

Universal Pictures Canada release THE FABELMANS this November.

Telefilm Canada have just announced the green-lighting of six Indigenous films through their Indigenous Stream, under the Theatrical Documentary Program and the Production Program, for a total commitment of over $3 million.

Titles are as follows: 

Angela’s Shadow (drama) 
Director and screenwriter: Jules Koostachin 
Production company: AaSheNii Productions Inc. 
Province: British Columbia 

Anicinabe Park 1974 (documentary) 
Director: Shane Belcourt, Tanya Talaga

Screenwriter: Jordan Wheeler 
Production company: Makwa Creative Inc.  
Province: Ontario 

Nechako (documentary) 
Director and screenwriter: Lyana Patrick 
Production company: Nechako Films Inc.  
Province: British Columbia  

Pow Wow Summer (family drama/comedy) 
Director and screenwriter: Darrell Dennis

Production Company: Orca Cove Media Inc.

Province: British Columbia  

Seeds (drama/comedy) 
Director and screenwriter: Kaniehtiio Horn 
Production company:  Kaniehtiio Horn-Batt Entertainment Inc. & New Real Film Inc. 
Province: Ontario  

Stoney Nakoda Film Project (documentary) 
Director and screenwriter: Cody Lefthand  
Production company: Stoney Film Project Ltd.  
Province: Alberta 

More on Telefilm Canada‘s Indigenous initiatives here.

Amazing news! Prime Video‘s top-rated Series THE WHEEL OF TIME has just been renewed a third season as just announced at Comic-Con! A Panel was held today where fans got to see a minute-long Sizzle Reel, along with the big news!

“I’m so thrilled that we’ll be making a third season of The Wheel of Time,” said Rafe Judkins, executive producer and showrunner of The Wheel of Time. “The Shadow Rising has always been my favorite book in the series, so being able to bring it to television and introduce new audiences to the stories that made me fall in love with these books in the first place is such an honor, and something I’ve been working toward since I first pitched the show years and years ago.”

“We are so excited to dive deeper into the world of The Wheel of Time with Rafe Judkins and his team, who have done such a marvelous job of honoring Robert Jordan’s vision and delivering an incredible viewing experience to Prime Video customers,” said Vernon Sanders, head of global television, Amazon Studios. “Season One resonated with the most loyal of Jordan devotees, as well as the uninitiated, who were experiencing this incredible world for the first time, proving this is a show that truly stands out in the genre space. We couldn’t be happier to give fans more reasons to be excited about the show and bring more The Wheel of Time to our customers worldwide.”

“Initially, people around the globe fell in love with Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time books and now thanks to Rafe Judkins and his incredible team that epic world has vividly been brought to life on Prime Video,” said Jeff Frost, president, Sony Pictures Television and Jason Clodfelter, co-president, Sony Pictures Television. “We are so pleased to be able to continue the journey and deliver this remarkable story to fans around the world. Sony Pictures Television is proud to continue its partnership with Amazon Studios as we move toward Season Three.”

(Photo credit: Prime Video)

Just unveiled today at Comic-Con was a new Teaser for NATIONAL TREASURE: EDGE OF HISTORY. A new Teaser Trailer has arrived.

Synopsis:

The series focuses on a young heroine, Jess (Lisette Olivera), a brilliant and resourceful DREAMer who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to uncover the truth about her family’s mysterious past and save a lost Pan-American treasure. During the panel, executive producers Cormac and Marianne Wibberley shared their vision for the reboot of the smash hit franchise and how incredibly thrilled they are to showcase this dream cast for the series, which also includes Academy and Tony Award®-winning actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. It was previously announced that Justin Bartha will guest star in the series, reprising his role as Riley Poole.

In addition to Olivera, the series also stars Zuri Reed (“Flatbush Misdemeanors”) as Tasha, Jess’ ride-or-die friend who joins the treasure hunt but is forced to reevaluate her belief system to help her best friend; Antonio Cipriano (“Jagged Little Pill” on Broadway) as Oren, a lovable but self-obsessed goofball with an encyclopedic knowledge of conspiracy theories that attempts to win back Tasha’s affections; Jordan Rodrigues (“Lady Bird”) as Ethan, Jess’ childhood best friend who has loved her since the day they met; Jake Austin Walker (“Rectify”) as Liam, a swoon-worthy struggling musician, with a permanent chip on his shoulder, who comes from a long line of treasure hunters; Catherine Zeta-Jones (“Chicago”) as Billie, a badass billionaire, black-market antiquities expert and treasure hunter who lives by her own code; and Lyndon Smith (“Parenthood”) as FBI Agent Ross, a dogged investigator who begins to realize there’s a greater conspiracy at hand.

Jerry Bruckheimer, Cormac and Marianne Wibberley, Jonathan Littman and KristieAnne Reed executive produce the series alongside Rick Muirragui, who also serves as a writer. Jon Turteltaub is also an executive producer. Mira Nair is directing and executive producing.

More to come.

(Photo/video credit: Disney)

Oscar winners Jessica Chastain and Eddie Redmayne star in THE GOOD NURSE, arriving this Fall on Netflix. The Thriller is based on a True Story. The first stills for the Feature has just been released.

Synopsis:
Suspicious that her colleague is responsible for a series of mysterious patient deaths, a nurse risks her own life to uncover the truth in this gripping thriller based on true events.

Release Date: Fall 2022
Director: Tobias Lindholm
Screenplay By: Krysty Wilson-Cairns
Based on the Book: The Good Nurse by Charles Graeber
Producers: Scott Franklin, Darren Aronofsky, Michael A. Jackman
Executive Producers: Ari Handel, Glen Basner, Jonathan Filley, Josh Stern
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Eddie Redmayne, Nnamdi Asomugha, Kim Dickens, Malik Yoba, Alix West Lefler, and Noah Emmerich

THE GOOD NURSE arrives this Fall on Netflix.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

It isn’t enough that Canada’s Drag Race Season One champion PRIYANKA take the damn crown, she now is dominating Pop Music! Her debut EP was released in 2021 and saw huge numbers. Third single “Come Through (ft. Lemon)” has 1.6 million views on YouTube and reached Top Five on iTunes right away! The EP has achieved 10 million+ streams already!

She just released the fourth and final single off the EP, “SNATCH (ft. Cheryl Hole)” and to celebrate the occasion for the Video directed by Caroline Torti, she threw a bash at Toronto’s The Rec Room the premiere the Clip! Fitting, considering the Video has a Video Game theme.

Priyanka‘s House of Love Drag Mother Xtacy Love even hosted.

A v. pregant Torti came out to show support, and she actually is due any day now! Also starring in the Video are Canadian Drag Stars Kendall Gender, Gia Metric, Lemon, Synthia Kiss, Tynomi Banks and more.

Previous collaborator and BFF Lemon made a surprise appearance as well, performing their single “Come Through” together.

Hollywood Jade whom you might remember from Canada’s Drag Race, showed some love too. Jade did all the Choreography for “SNATCH“.

And now for the actual Video of “SNATCH (ft. Cheryl Hole)”! OMG. There’s a Super Mario Dance Battle! Are you Team Cheryl Hole or Team Priyanka? Who wins??

Previous Videos from the TASTE TEST EP:

So proud of Priyanka! We remember her from her days as a fellow Blogger on the scene, before her success at YTV and now THIS international recognition!

Some Snaps from the event, sponsored by VIZZY:

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/Priyanka)