#FIRSTLOOK: LUCASFILM ANNOUNCE UPCOMING RELEASES AT 2022 STAR WARS CELEBRATION

Lucasfilm showcased some of their exciting upcoming releases yesterday in Anaheim at their STAR WARS Celebration, giving first looks at upcoming Disney+ Series ANDOR and WILLOW, plus THE MANDALORIAN‘s third season and STAR WARS: SKELETON CREW – a new Series starring Jude Law. Harrison Ford also was on-hand to present the upcoming INDIANA JONES film.

Some highlights:

“Obi –Wan Kenobi”

After a dramatic entry to the tune of “Duel of the Fates,” stars Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen were joined by executive producer Kathleen Kennedy, director Deborah Chow and cast members Moses Ingram and Rupert Friend. Following a lively discussion about the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series, there was a surprise announcement that there would be a red-carpet premiere of the first two episodes later tonight… and the whole audience was invited.

To the delight of the audience, at the end of Lucasfilm’s Studio Showcase,  the iconic composer John Williams led the Pacific Symphony Orchestra in the Obi-Wan Theme—played live for the first time ever.

“Obi-Wan Kenobi” begins 10 years after the dramatic events of “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith” where Obi-Wan Kenobi faced his greatest defeat—the downfall and corruption of his best friend and Jedi apprentice, Anakin Skywalker, who turned to the dark side as evil Sith Lord Darth Vader.

“Obi-Wan Kenobi” stars Ewan McGregor, reprising his role as the iconic Jedi Master, and also marks the return of Hayden Christensen in the role of Darth Vader. Joining the cast are Moses Ingram, Joel Edgerton, Bonnie Piesse, Kumail Nanjiani, Indira Varma, Rupert Friend, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Sung Kang, Simone Kessell and Benny Safdie.  “Obi-Wan Kenobi” is directed by Deborah Chow and executive-produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Michelle Rejwan, Deborah Chow, Ewan McGregor and Joby Harold.

“Obi-Wan Kenobi” begins streaming exclusively on Disney+ tomorrow, May 27.

“Andor”

On hand to talk about “Andor,” an upcoming new series for Disney+, were star Diego Luna, who returns to the role of Cassian Andor, creator and showrunner Tony Gilroy, executive producer Sanne Wohlenberg and  Genevieve O’Reilly who portrays Mon Mothma once again. To the delight of the fans, Luna unveiled the new poster and showed the teaser trailer for the series.

The “Andor” series will explore an era filled with danger, deception and intrigue. Cassian Andor embarks on a path that will turn him into the rebel hero who will challenge the evil Galactic Empire.

Diego Luna returns as Cassian Andor and is joined by cast members Genevieve O’Reilly, Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Denise Gough and Kyle Soller. The executive producers are Kathleen Kennedy, Sanne Wohlenberg, Diego Luna and Michelle Rejwan. Tony Gilroy is the creator and showrunner.

“Andor” launches exclusively on Disney+ August 31, with the first two episodes.

“Willow”

Executive producers Jonathan Kasdan and Ron Howard came on stage to talk about “Willow,” an all-new live-action fantasy adventure series from Lucasfilm and Imagine Entertainment based on the classic 1988 feature film. In a fun moment, Warwick Davis who played Willow in the feature film and is coming back for the series, surprised everyone on stage. He was joined by some of the other cast members, including Joanne Whalley, who is returning to her role of Sorsha, Ellie Bamber, Ruby Cruz and Erin Kellyman. The audience got a first look at “Willow” when the teaser trailer was revealed.

An epic period fantasy series with a modern sensibility set in an enchanted land of breathtaking beauty “Willow” features a diverse international cast with Jonathan Kasdan, Ron Howard, Wendy Mericle, Kathleen Kennedy, and Michelle Rejwan serving as executive producers. The story began with an aspiring magician from a Nelwyn village and an infant girl destined to unite the realms, who together helped destroy an evil queen and banish the forces of darkness. Now, in a magical world where brownies, sorcerers, trolls, and other mystical creatures flourish, the adventure continues, as an unlikely group of heroes set off on a dangerous quest to places far beyond their home, where they must face their inner demons and come together to save their world.

“Willow” premieres November 30, exclusively on Disney+.

“Ahsoka”

Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni took the stage to roars from the excited crowd. They announced that they had just come from the set of “Ahsoka,” which is in production now. Filoni confirmed that he is directing some episodes of the series, and then they shared a video greeting from Rosario Dawson, who is playing the title character, Ahsoka.

“Ahsoka” will follow the former Jedi knight as she investigates an emerging threat to the vulnerable New Republic.  The new series is slated for 2023 and will be excusive to Disney+.

“The Mandalorian,” Season 3

A lively discussion about Season 3 of “The Mandalorian” ensued, then Favreau and Filoni brought out Katee Sackhoff, who plays Bo-Katan, and treated fans to a surprise sneak peek at Season 3 – created just for the fans in attendance. And as an extra special “thank you” for the fans, Jon Favreau announced The Mandalorian Experience, an exhibit of props and costumes that will be on display for the duration of Star Wars Celebration.

The Mandalorian and Grogu are reunited and continue their journey, facing enemies and rallying allies as they make their way through a dangerous galaxy in the tumultuous era after the collapse of the Galactic Empire.  Season 3 of “The Mandalorian” is set to launch exclusively on Disney+ in February 2023, and is executive produced by Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Rick Famuyiwa, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson.

“Star Wars: Skeleton Crew”

As if that wasn’t enough excitement from Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, the duo surprised the audience with the announcement of a new series for Disney+ that they are executive producing called “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew.”

Favreau and Filoni went on to introduce creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford, who are joining them as fellow executive producers on the series. “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” set in the New Republic era, is about a group of kids lost in the Star Wars galaxy trying to find their way home.

Watts and Ford had the pleasure of announcing that Jude Law would be starring in the series, set to launch on Disney+ in 2023.

“Indiana Jones”

Star Harrison Ford and filmmakers James Mangold, Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall of the upcoming fifth installment of the “Indiana Jones” franchise took the stage to unveil an early photo from the film, and to wish composer John Williams a happy 90^th birthday. As on all four previous “Indiana Jones” films, Williams is composing the score for the new film, which opens on June 30, 2023.

Harrison Ford returns to the role of the legendary hero archaeologist for this fifth installment of the iconic franchise. Starring along with Ford are Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen, Antonio Banderas, Boyd Holbrook, Shaunette Renee Wilson, Thomas Kretschmann and Toby Jones. The film is directed by James Mangold, with  Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall and Simon Emanuel serving as producers, and Steven Spielberg as executive producer.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW STILLS + TEASER FROM “ANDOR”

A new Teaser and Stills from upcoming Disney+ Series ANDOR have just arrived!

Synopsis:

The “Andor” series will explore a new perspective from the Star Wars galaxy, focusing on Cassian Andor’s journey to discover the difference he can make. The series brings forward the tale of the burgeoning rebellion against the Empire and how people and planets became involved. It’s an era filled with danger, deception and intrigue where Cassian will embark on the path that is destined to turn him into a rebel hero.

Diego Luna returns as Cassian Andor and is joined by cast members Genevieve O’Reilly, Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Denise Gough and Kyle Soller. The executive producers are Kathleen Kennedy, Sanne Wohlenberg, Diego Luna and Michelle Rejwan. Tony Gilroy is the creator and showrunner.

ANDOR launches August 31, 2022 exclusively on Disney+.

(Photo/video credit: Disney)

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW STILLS + TEASER TRAILER FROM “WILLOW”

A first look at upcoming Lucasfilm Series WILLOW has been unveiled! Check-out some new stills and a Teaser Trailer!

Synopsis:

An epic period fantasy series with a modern sensibility set in an enchanted land of breathtaking beauty, “Willow” features a diverse international cast with Jonathan Kasdan, Ron Howard, Wendy Mericle, Kathleen Kennedy, and Michelle Rejwan serving as executive producers. The story began with an aspiring magician from a Nelwyn village and an infant girl destined to unite the realms, who together helped destroy an evil queen and banish the forces of darkness. Now, in a magical world where brownies, sorcerers, trolls, and other mystical creatures flourish, the adventure continues, as an unlikely group of heroes set off on a dangerous quest to places far beyond their home, where they must face their inner demons and come together to save their world. 

“Willow” will premiere November 30, 2022, exclusively on Disney+.

(Photo credit: Disney)

#FIRSTLOOK: “STRANGER THINGS 4” TORONTO ACTIVATION

Great news, STRANGER THINGS fans of Toronto! An activation will be popping-up in celebration of the season’s upcoming release. A great opportunity for you to come out and get a snap for your Socials! There also is a chance to attend a STRANGER THINGS 4 Watch Party Sunday at RendezViews!

WHAT:

For four days only during RendezViews’ (299 Richmond St. W) operating hours, fans will have the opportunity to interact with a head turning pop-up activation inspired by Netflix’s long-awaited #StrangerThings4. A Hawkins police car will be flipped onto its roof and engulfed by the Upside Down (think slimy vines and tendrils), surrounded by mysterious mist and spooky red lighting. A street team in hazmat suits (Thursday and Sunday), resembling those worn by the scientists studying the Upside Down in the series will also be present to amplify this otherworldly photo opportunity only in Toronto.

WHERE:

RendezViews – 229 Richmond St. W, Toronto

WHEN:

Pop-up Activation open to public – Thursday, May 26 – Saturday, May 28 ET at 5pm – 11pm

ALSO:

Stranger Things 4 Episode 1 Watch Party – Sunday, May 29 at 7pm ET (doors open at 5:30pm) *first come, first serve

Stranger Things 4 Vol. 1 premieres May 27th, only on Netflix.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

#FIRSTLOOK: SPARK ANIMATION 2022 FESTIVAL

SPARK ANIMATION 2022 will be held on October 27 to November 30, 2022, with both in-person in Vancouver, and online programming. 

The Oscar®– accredited Festival is Western Canada’s largest celebration of animation, encompassing everything from the roots of the medium to the advanced technologies available to studios and independent filmmakers across the globe.

The Festival is comprised of screenings, talks, a career fair, and networking opportunities.

A showcase for both established filmmakers and new talent, submissions are now open for SPARK ANIMATION 2022.

The Festival celebrates animation in all its forms and styles, including animated feature films, short films, student films, commercials, music videos, game cinematics and trailers, and many more. Accepted styles include computer animation (2D and 3D), traditional, as well as stop-motion animation. 

Prizes include:

• Best Animated Feature Film
• Best Animated Short Film
• Best Animated Student Film
• Best Canadian Short Film
• Best Animated Music Video
• Best Animated Commercial
• Best Game Animation (real-time or pre-rendered)
• Best VFX Narrative Short Film
• Diversity Award
• Other prizes to be determined at judges’ discretion

Looking to Submit?

Submissions are now open via FilmFreeway, with a deadline to submit by September 16, 2022. More information, submission details, and rules and terms can be found at www.filmfreeway.com/SPARKANIMATION

Tickets and Passes

For more details on ticket sales and to stay up to date on all SPARK ANIMATION announcements, join our mailing list at https://bit.ly/38hV5I5

#FIRSTLOOK: TELEFILM CANADA ANNOUNCE NEW ENGLISH FILM PROJECTS

Twelve new English Features, balancing the diverse voices of our country and industry have been green-lit with funding from Telefilm Canada, totaling $16.47 million!

Upcoming titles to be produced in Canada include:

The Boy in the Woods (historical drama) 

Director and screenwriter: Rebecca Snow 

Production: Lumanity Productions Inc. and JoBro Productions Inc. 

Distributor: Photon Films 

Province: Ontario 

The Braid (drama) 

Director and screenwriter: Laetitia Colombani 

Production: Moana Films (France), Curiosa Films (France) and Forum Films Inc. (Canada) 

Distributor: MK2-Mile End 

Province: Quebec 

Die Alone (thriller) 

Director and screenwriter: Lowell Dean 

Production: Minds Eye Entertainment Ltd. 

Distributor: Filmoption International 

Province: Saskatchewan 

Ethel(drama) 

Director: Aisling Walsh 

Screenwriter: Celeste Parr 

Production: Go Films L.P.R.S. Inc. (Canada) and Port Pictures Ltd. (Ireland) 

Distributor: MK2-Mile End 

Province: Quebec 

The Last Whale Singer (action/adventure/animation) 

Directors: Reza Memari and Steven Majaury 

Screenwriter: Reza Memari 

Production: Telescope Animation (Germany) and La Boîte à Fanny Inc. (Canada) 

Distributor: Maison 4:3 

Province: Quebec 

Longing (drama) 

Director and screenwriter: Savi Gabizon 

Production: Scythia Films Inc. (Canada) and CFE Longing Ltd. (Israel) 

Distributor: Mongrel Media 

Province: Ontario 

Out Standing in the Field (drama) 

Director: Mélanie Charbonneau 

Screenwriters: Martine Pagé and Mélanie Charbonneau 

Production: G.P.A. Films Inc. and January Films Ltd. 

Distributor: MK2-Mile End 

Provinces: Quebec and Ontario 

Paradise (thriller) 

Director: Jeremy Comte 

Screenwriters: Jeremy Comte and Will Niava 

Production: Entract Studios Inc. (Canada), Elevation Pictures Productions Inc. (Canada), Cinenovo (France), and Constellation Productions (France) 

Distributors: Elevation Pictures and Entract Films 

Provinces: Quebec and Ontario 

The Silent Planet (science fiction) 

Director and screenwriter: Jeffrey St. Jules 

Production: JoBro Productions Inc. and Panoramic Pictures 

Distributor: Aqute Media 

Provinces: Ontario and Newfoundland 

Space Cadet (musical/animation) 

Director: Eric San 

Screenwriter: Mylene Chollet 

Production: Les Films Outsiders Inc. 

Distributor: Maison 4:3 

Province: Quebec 

Warrior Strong (drama) 

Director: Shane Belcourt 

Screenwriters: Dan Gordon and Shane Belcourt 

Production: Darius Films Inc. 

Distributor: Aqute Media 

Province: Ontario 

Young Werther (comedy) 

Director and screenwriter: José Lourenço 

Production: Wildling Pictures Inc. 

Distributor: Level Film 

Province: Ontario 

#FIRSTLOOK: TEASER FOR “CARPOOL KARAOKE: THE SERIES – SEASON 5”

Season Five of CARPOOL KARAOKE: THE SERIES delivers just the hits! And Toronto’s own Simu Liu even appears this season! Here’s a new Teaser.

Synopsis:

Each episode of “Carpool Karaoke: The Series” features celebrities sharing a car, singing along to their personal playlists, and embarking on adventures. Season five kicks off with Simu Liu and Jessica Henwick; “The White Lotus” costars Murray Bartlett, Alexandra Daddario and Sydney Sweeney; Anitta and Saweetie; Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott, who first met on “Carpool Karaoke”; the stars of All Elite Wrestling; and the D’Amelio family.

Season Five of “Carpool Karaoke: The Series” premieres with six episodes on Friday, May 27, 2022.

(Photo/video credit: Apple TV+)

#CANNES22: “ELVIS” REVIEW

By Amanda Gilmore

Writer-Director Baz Luhrmann takes us on a dazzling ride with the Rock ‘n’ Roll legend. 

The Film is told from the perspective of his manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). We are taken through the life of Elvis (Austin Butler) from his humble beginnings to his tragic early passing. Along the way we see the impact, Elvis has had on music, branding and more within the industry.

It comes as no surprise that Luhrmann is the perfect fit for bringing the flair and glamour of Elvis to the big screen. Luhrmann’s Filmmaking style is in full effect as we follow the young boy becoming one of the greatest musicians in history. Tom Parker tells the story of how he made Elvis famous. It’s an odd entry point to a story about the world’s best-selling Solo Artist, considering Tom Parker is believed to be one of the causes of his death. At times it feels like the story didn’t need this narration aspect. However, it serves as a way into the many themes Luhrmann and his Co-Writers Sam Bromell and Craig Pearce explore. 

Although this is a story about Elvis, it touches on the Music industry as a whole. Particularly, the behind-the-scenes work. We get to watch as Elvis becomes the first Musician to make women’s emotions run rampant. These scenes are sprinkled throughout and are an absolute delight to watch. Luhrmann  captures brilliantly how a little wiggle of Elvis’ hips made women to lose their minds. These moments work thanks to a breakthrough performance from Butler who literally disappears into the icon. Each of the performances throughout is perfectly edited by Jonathan Redmond and Matt Villa, bringing us right into the performance hall.

Further, we watch as Tom Parker was the first Manager to make merchandise for a Musician. Moments like this remind the audience of the impact Elvis had on the industry as a whole. To this day, he was the first to do what Musicians do today. Luhrmann uses non-Elvis Music in the Film to the same effect. There’s one music mash-up that combines Elvis, “Backstreet’s Back” and “Toxic”. Doing this works as a touching tribute to the effect Elvis has on musicians to this day.

At the centre of the story is the toxic relationship between Elvis and Tom Parker. It’s clear from the beginning that he doesn’t have Elvis’ best interests at heart. He looks at him as a bank that will spew-out money. It’s a rare antagonist performance from Hanks who excels as the controlling Tom Parker. He tells Elvis to stop hanging around with the Musicians on Beale Street, stop dancing suggestively on stage, and wear different clothes at his performances. This results in Elvis losing who he is and what made him so beloved.

We see Elvis struggle between who he is and who his Manager is trying to turn him into. It’s mesmerizing to watch Butler portray this legend. He perfectly shows Elvis’ the energetic, alluring performance side and the man off-stage. The one who was struggling with his identity and craved the love he received while on stage.

It’s great watching him alongside Olivia DeJonge who plays Priscilla Presley. These moments show how fame can come in-between what was actual love.

ELVIS showcases some of the greatest performances of the year, including a powerhouse performance from Butler, made glossy by the stylish finishes Luhrmann is known for. It’s a great time at the Cinema while touching upon important moments throughout history. It’s a reminder that Musicians have the ability to make positive changes both within their industry and socially.

Elvis screens at Cannes ’22:

Wed, May 25 at 6:45 PM at GRAND THÉÂTRE LUMIÈRE

#CANNES22: DAY TEN SIGHTINGS – TOM HANKS, BAZ LUHRMANN, AUSTIN BUTLER, MARGARET QUALLEY + JOE ALWYN

While this might be our last day at the Festival, it certainly wasn’t our least! The Premiere for Baz Luhrmann’s ELVIS took place last night, and the Junket today. The Film not only received a ten-minute standing ovation, but above this, has received the approval of Elvis Presley’s family – and there can be no higher honour. Amanda tells us the Film is told more through the lens of Elvis‘ Manager Colonel Tom Parker, played by Tom Hanks.

From the junket for Baz Luhrmann‘s ELVIS:

And also Claire Denis’ STARS AT NOON, set in 1984 Nicaragua, about a Businessman and Journalist who find themselves in trouble and trying to escape.

Thanks for checking-out our coverage. Our Amanda Gilmore‘s thoughts on ELVIS here!

(Photo credit: Amanda Gilmore/Mr. Will Wong)

#FOOD: TACOFEST 2022 RETURNS TO TORONTO

After a three year absence, TACO FEST TORONTO returns June 17 – 19, 2022, on The West Island at Ontario Place! Expect 150 variations of Tacos at the Festival and more than 30 Vendors!

So delighted we got to attend a Media Preview for the event hosted St. Clair West’s ATOMIC 10. The festive affair where we got to sample Tacos and Cocktails from their edited Menu, packed with hits certainly was atmospheric as we were serenaded by a Mariachi Band! The compact space with an outdoor patio is lit in neon and a bright energy.

ATOMIC 10 will be vying for top honours at the Fest and is sure to win over some new fans. We’re obsessed with their Spicy Margarita, a spin on their Classic Margarita with a Jalapeño Pepper and sweet, tart and spicy-rimmed glass.

You haven’t lived till you’ve tried their Birria Tacos, with Braised Beef, Cilantro, stringy Monterey Jack and Red Onion, with Dipping Sauce. One of this best this City has to offer and cannot be missed. Such a delight!

Their Dat Chick Taco with Fried Chicken, Sweet Chili, Cucumbers, Pickled Carrots and Cilantro Crema, also outstanding!

To top it all off, our fave Booyah Ice Cream was there to serve us Ice Cream Tacos in a truck! Their After Eight Oreo is a huge hit for them, as is their Blueberry Cheesecake, Lavender Honey and Kookie Monster! They also will be at the Festival and this is a perfect opportunity for you to try them if you can’t get to their Vaughan Road location.

Learn more about TACO FEST TORONTO right here. Trust us, you deserve this!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong)

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)