Paramount+ celebrates the triumphant return of iconic Latina heroine Dora the Explorer with the reveal of the official trailer and key art for the upcoming original preschool series DORA. Produced by Nickelodeon Animation and featuring 26 CG-animated 11-minute episodes, DORA will premiere on Friday, April 12, exclusively on Paramount+ in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and Australia.

With all-new CG animation and imaginative character-driven storylines, the upcoming DORA series follows everyone’s favorite bilingual explorer, Dora (Diana Zermeño), and her best monkey friend, Boots (Asher Colton Spence), as they embark on epic adventures in a fantastical rainforest. Guided by trustworthy Map (Anairis Quiñones), Dora and her friends must work together to overcome many obstacles while being challenged by the sneakiest fox, Swiper (Marc Weiner). Kathleen Herles, the original voice of Dora the Explorer, returns to the new series as Mami, and Mike Smith Rivera joins the cast as Papi.

In addition to Zermeño’s breakout role as Dora, previously announced cast members joining DORA include Maria Canals-Barrera as Abuela; Danny Burstein as Grumpy Old Troll and The Fiesta Trio’s Frog and Marmoset; Katarina Sky as Backpack; Donovan Monzon-Sanders as Tico; Tandi Fomukong as Isa; Quintún Muñoz as Benny; Chris Gifford as Big Red Chicken; and Quiñones as The Fiesta Trio’s Armadillo. Featured guest stars this season are Taboo as Quickatoo and Kate del Castillo as Ale the Alebrije.

DORA is produced by Nickelodeon Animation in Burbank, California. Rich Magallanes, Chris Gifford and Valerie Walsh Valdes serve as executive producers. Henry Lenardin-Madden serves as co-executive producer, and Alejandro Bien-Willner serves as story editor. Marielle Kaar is Nickelodeon’s Executive in Charge of Production for the series. DORA THE EXPOLORER was created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner.

Also launching this spring is DORA’S RECIPE FOR ADVENTURE, Nickelodeon’s brand-new podcast for preschoolers and families, which centers on Dora and celebrates culture, food, family and the importance of embracing oneself. Featuring all-new music, the 10-episode audio series follows Dora and Boots on their exciting expeditions through the rainforest as they search for the missing ingredients for some of her family’s favorite dishes, such as caldo de piedra (stone soup), arroz con huevos (rice with eggs) and maduros (fried sweet plantains). DORA’S RECIPE FOR ADVENTURE will be available wherever listeners get their podcasts.

Since its launch on Nickelodeon on August 14, 2000, DORA THE EXPOLORER quickly emerged as a global pop culture phenomenon, and nearly 25 years later, it’s still one of the most-watched preschool shows of all time. Dora has crossed social, racial and language boundaries and stands as a hero and friend to millions of children around the world. The series currently is seen in more than 150 countries and territories and translated in 32 languages through Nickelodeon channels, Paramount+ around the globe and syndication. Over its eight-season run, which is currently available to stream in full on Paramount+, DORA THE EXPLORER received countless accolades, including Emmy, Peabody, NAACP, Alma, Imagen, Latino Spirit, Gracie Allen, Parents’ Choice, Common Sense Media and Television Critics Association awards.

Today, Prime Video announced that it has ordered The Runarounds to series. Produced by Skydance Television and created by Jonas Pate (Outer Banks, Aquarius), with a teleplay from David Wilcox (666 Park Avenue, Fringe), The Runarounds is a fictional YA drama, inspired by the real band of the same name. The new eight-episode series will premiere on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

The fictional series stars the real-life band’s members—William Lipton, Axel Ellis, Jeremy Yun, Zendé Murdock, and Jesse Golliher—along with Lilah Pate and Kelley Pereira.

The series follows a tight-knit group of young adults from all walks of life who come together to form a rock band the summer after graduating from high school. Against the backdrop of Wilmington, North Carolina, The Runarounds will have to choose between succumbing to the pressures of real life, or risking it all to become the greatest band of all time.

“When we first met with Jonas and Skydance about The Runarounds, it was immediately clear that they brought us a special show featuring an incredibly talented cast and real-life band,” said Vernon Sanders, head of television, Amazon MGM Studios. “We are very much looking forward to sharing the exhilarating journey of The Runarounds with our global Prime Video customers.”

Jonas Pate, who directed the pilot episode which was shot in 2022, will also serve as executive producer of The Runarounds, along with David Wilcox, Joon Yun, Josh Pate, Shannon Burke, Lisa Mae Fincannon, and Scott Lambert, with David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Matt Thunell for Skydance Television.

“I am thrilled to reunite with Jonas, David, Josh, and Shannon on a show that is so personal to them, and so brimming with heart and soul. We are grateful to Amazon for their partnership, and we can’t wait for the world to meet The Runarounds,” said Matt Thunell, president, Skydance Television.

The series marks Skydance Television’s fifth project with Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video following the hit series Reacher and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, as well as the upcoming Cross and the recently announced action-adventure series starring Octavia Spencer and Hannah Waddingham.

Canadian Music Week, which has selected the conference’s spotlight country this year as India, is pleased to announce the 23^rd annual Jim Beam® INDIES on June 6, 2024, at Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall, with a headlining set by Canadian-born chart-topper AR Paisley. 

The rising rapper, whose Spotify monthly listeners leapt from 1.1M to 3.2M since December, won Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year at last year’s INDIES.

The awards, sponsored by Jim Beam® and SiriusXM, are a celebration of new music and the artists and teams who inspire the independent spirit, both nationally and internationally. The evening will include award presentations interspersed with live performances by select nominees. 

AR Paisley, who has a top 10 hit in Canada with a feature rap on the posthumous single “Drippy” by his friend and mentor the late Sidhu Moose Wala, will take the stage for a full set to cap the night. The winner of the 2024 Jim Beam® National Talent Search will kick off the INDIES.

Tickets will be on sale at Ticketmaster on Tuesday Feb 27^th 10:00 AM, 2024.

Born into an Indo-Canadian Punjabi Sikh family, in Mississauga, Ontario, Paisley, whose real name is Amarit Rehal, conveys raw vulnerability through his explosive verses. Taking his stage name from the street he was raised on (Paisley Boulevard), he turned to creating music after a turbulent grade 12. In 2018, he started releasing singles including “Beat the Odds” and “Lavish,” then dropped his debut mixtape, Screwface, which gained over five million streams. He followed it up with Timeless, which included “Cost Ya,” which racked over a million streams and put him on the Toronto music map in 2019. That year, he toured with Sidhu Moose Wala.

2020 saw Paisley refine his craft with AR Paisley vs. AR Money and the reflective single “Still Grateful.” Collaborating with another Punjabi superstar, AP Dhillon, on “Takeover” expanded his reach to global audiences. In 2022, Paisley and Moose Wala collaborated on “Love Sick,” to date his most popular song on Spotify. Shortly after, he performed at Rolling Loud and opened for Dhillon’s arena tour before embarking on his own solo tour in 2023. In June, he was named Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year at the Jim Beam® INDIES.

Since then, Paisley has signed 91 North Records, a joint venture between Warner Music Canada and Warner Music India, and dropped the single “What’s Beef” and the Wala track, “Drippy.”

Nominations for the 23^rd Annual Jim Beam® INDIES are being accepted through indies.ca until Feb. 27, 2024. Artists or their representatives can submit their nominations to be considered for the 2024 Jim Beam® INDIE Awards, with national music release dates that must fall between the eligibility period of January 1, 2023, and April 1, 2024. For complete nomination details, eligibility criteria and award categories, see “criteria” on the INDIES’ website. 

ABOUT CANADIAN MUSIC WEEK: 

Canadian Music Week is the leading annual event dedicated to the expression and growth of the country’s music, media and entertainment industries, combining multifaceted, information-intensive conferences, a trade exposition, awards shows and the nation’s largest new music festival.

Disney Branded Television, BBC Studios Kids & Family and Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have announced that the next installments of“Bluey,” including an extended length special, will premiere this April, marking the series’ first global rollout. The first new episode, “Ghostbasket,” will premiere on Sunday, April 7, teeing up the debut of the 28-minute special, “The Sign,” premiering a week later on Sunday, April 14. Both episodes will air first via ABC Kids in Australia and then roll out globally the same day across Disney+, Disney Junior and Disney Channel in Canada and all other available regions (with the exception of China and New Zealand).

“The Sign”marks “Bluey’s” longest ever episode. “Ghostbasket” is a standard-length episode. Both episodes are penned by series creator and writer Joe Brumm, directed by Richard Jeffery, and produced by Ludo Studio. Ten new episodes of the series premiered on Disney+ in January and will begin rolling out on Disney Channel and Disney Junior beginning March 25 – April 5.

Since launching in Australia in 2018, “Bluey” has gained millions of fans around the world, widely lauded for its heartfelt and funny portrayal of family life and celebration of play. The series follows Bluey, a loveable and inexhaustible Blue Heeler dog who lives with her Mum, Dad and little sister, Bingo.

A global ratings hit, the critically acclaimed serieshas been recognized with numerous awards, including a fifth consecutive AACTA Best Children’s Programme award, International Kids Emmy^® Award, the Television Critics Association Award, BAFTA Children & Young People Awards, Kidscreen Awards, Critics’ Choice Award nominations and many more.

Jointly commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family, “Bluey”is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by the multiple Emmy Award-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Queensland and Screen Australia. The series streams to Canadian and global audiences (outside of Australia, New Zealand and China) across Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney+ through a global broadcasting deal between BBC Studios Kids & Family and Disney Branded Television.

Canadian Film Fest (CFF) presented by Super Channel, the indie-spirited festival dedicated to celebrating Canadian filmmakers, today announced its lineup for the 2024 edition. New this year, CFF is extending the Festival to six days and expanding its shorts programming by screening six dedicated Homegrown Shorts programs, including a spotlight on Toronto filmmakers. CFF will return to Cineplex’s Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, showcasing 11 features and 45 shorts and will take place March 18 – 23, 2024. Tickets go on sale March 4 and can be purchased at canfilmfest.ca.

CFF will transport cinefiles across Canada with feature films from Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia. The Festival will kick off with Ian Harnarine’s Doubles, executive produced by Spike Lee, about a Trinidadian street vendor who travels to Toronto to decide if he will help save his estranged father from dying. The film is adapted from Ian’s acclaimed short Doubles with Slight Pepper, which won Best Canadian Short Film at TIFF 2011 and Best Live Action Short Drama at the 2012 CSAs. Other festival highlights include Audrey Cummings’ Western Place of Bones starring Heather Graham and Tom Hopper about a bank robbery gone wrong in 1876; Anna Fahr’s compelling Valley of Exile, about two sisters seeking refuge in Lebanon after fleeing their home during the Syrian civil war; Winnipeg director Sean Garrity’s moving film The Burning Season chronicling an affair unfolding backwards in a reverse narrative; and the deeply personal documentary WaaPake (Tomorrow) where director Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin shares the impact and suffering of residential school Survivors.

“We are so proud to continue uniting film lovers with an outstanding lineup, celebrating Canadian stories that resonate with people across the nation. From heartfelt narratives to bold cinematic visions, this year’s program champions fresh new voices that will captivate and inspire. At CFF, we have a rich tradition of amplifying Canadian talent exclusively, and we can’t wait to welcome new and returning audiences and filmmakers to the festival to share some of the most innovative works our country has to offer,” said Ashleigh Rains, Festival Director, Canadian Film Fest.

In addition to each feature film being preceded by a short, the CFF will also present six Homegrown Shorts programs. These enlightening and diverse stories dive into an array of subject matters such as addiction, identity, cultural heritage, rebellion, cosmic disasters and more. Highlights include Aaron Hong and M.R. Horhager’s animated short Three Trees, narrated by Whoopi Goldberg about three young trees who learn about themselves, friendship and their place in the world; Christopher Yip’s Fish Boy a tender meditation on religion, queerness, and polyamory through the eyes of an Asian American teenager; Katie Uhlmann’s When You Know You…Know? about how social media affects our everyday lives; Eva Thomas’s Redlights where an evening outing takes a dangerous turn for two Indigenous women; and Katia Café-Fébrissy’s Still Waters about a young queer couple coping with the loss of their child.

CFF is proud to partner with Super Channel, Scotiabank, Heritage Canada and other generous sponsors and granting agencies and grateful for their ongoing support of the festival, Canadian film, and artists.

BY THE NUMBERS:

56 Total Films
11 (20%) Features
45 (80%) Shorts
35 (63%) Toronto Shorts
35 (63%) BIPOC Filmmakers
33 (59%) Female/Non-Binary Filmmakers

Click here for the complete festival schedule or visit canfilmfest.ca.

Today, we get a new Canadian Trailer for HORIZON: AN AMERICAN SAGA from Kevin Costner!

Synopsis:

In the great tradition of Warner Bros. Pictures’ iconic Westerns, Horizon: An American Saga explores the lure of the Old West and how it was won—and lost—through the blood, sweat and tears of many. Spanning the four years of the Civil War, from 1861 to 1865, Kevin Costner’s ambitious cinematic adventure will take audiences on an emotional journey across a country at war with itself, experienced through the lens of families, friends and foes all attempting to discover what it truly means to be the United States of America.

Horizon: An American Saga – Only in Theatres June 28, 2024.

(Photo/video credit: Warner Bros..Pictures Canada)

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE is poised to dominate again a second straight week, taking $13.4 million from 3,597 theatres for Paramount Pictures. This brings its to week tally to $71 million.

In second with $10 million, is a debuting DEMON SLAYER KIMTSU NO YAIBA – TO THE HASHIRA TRAINING, which is a series episode playing at 1,949 theatres for Crunchyroll/Sony Pictures.

ORDINARY ANGELS debuts in third with $6 million for Lionsgate, from 2,800 theatres, earning 80% on the Tomatometer.

MADAME WEB gets fourth spot with $5 million in weekend two for Sony Pictures, taking it to $34.4 million.

Fifth goes to veteran MIGRATION with $3.5 million from 2,522 theatres for Universal Pictures.

Casinos have always held a mystique and allure that captivates audiences around the globe. Whether it’s the high-stakes gambling, the glamorous atmosphere, or the possibility of striking it rich, the world of casinos has provided fertile ground for storytelling in cinema.

Inspired by real-money and sweepstakes casinos, filmmakers have crafted a myriad of casino-themed movies over time, each offering a unique perspective on the thrilling world of gambling. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the top five rated casino movies, ranging from tales of secret agents to comedic escapades.

Casino Royale (2006)

At the top of our list sits Casino Royale, a film that reinvigorated the James Bond franchise with a fresh approach to the iconic spy character. Directed by Martin Campbell and starring Daniel Craig as Agent 007, this adaptation of Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel takes viewers on a high-octane journey through the world of international espionage and high-stakes poker.

The film opens with Bond embarking on his first mission as a newly minted Double-0 agent. His objective: To thwart a terrorist financier named Le Chiffre (portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen) in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in Montenegro. As Bond navigates the treacherous waters of the poker table, he encounters love, betrayal, and danger at every turn.

What sets Casino Royale apart from other Bond films is its focus on character development and gritty realism. Daniel Craig’s portrayal of a more rugged and emotionally complex Bond struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, earning widespread acclaim. The film’s pulse-pounding action sequences, stunning cinematography, and taut screenplay make it a standout in the genre and a must-watch for any casino movie aficionado.

Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

Next on our list is Ocean’s Eleven, a stylish and slick heist film directed by Steven Soderbergh and featuring an ensemble cast of Hollywood A-listers. Led by George Clooney as the charismatic Danny Ocean, a group of eleven skilled criminals conspire to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.

The allure of Ocean’s Eleven lies not only in its intricate plot and clever twists but also in the chemistry between its ensemble cast. From Brad Pitt’s laid-back Rusty Ryan to Matt Damon’s eager pickpocket Linus Caldwell, each character brings their own unique flair to the table, creating a dynamic and entertaining group dynamic.

As Danny Ocean and his crew meticulously plan and execute their audacious heist, viewers are treated to a rollercoaster ride of suspense, humour, and unexpected revelations. The film’s stylish direction, snappy dialogue, and pulsating soundtrack combine to create an exhilarating cinematic experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Ocean’s Eleven not only redefined the heist genre but also cemented its place as one of the most beloved casino movies of all time, spawning two sequels and a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow to this day.

Secret Agents (2004)

In Secret Agents, directed by Frédéric Schoendoerffer, we’re drawn into the intricate world of espionage, betrayal, and high-stakes gambling. Starring Vincent Cassel and Monica Bellucci, the film follows two undercover agents tasked with infiltrating a high-stakes poker game held in a luxurious casino.

As the agents navigate the dangerous waters of international espionage, they find themselves entangled in a web of deceit and double-crosses that threatens to unravel their carefully laid plans. With its gripping storyline and stylish direction, and the stellar performances from its cast, Secret Agents offers a fresh take on the casino movie genre, blending elements of espionage and gambling into a thrilling cinematic experience.

The Sting (1973)

Set in 1930s Chicago, The Sting is a timeless classic that combines elements of crime, comedy, and suspense to create a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Directed by George Roy Hill and starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, the film follows two con men as they orchestrate an elaborate scheme to swindle a powerful mob boss out of a fortune.

What sets The Sting apart from other casino movies is its intricate plot, clever deception, and nostalgic charm. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the smoky back rooms of underground gambling dens, the film immerses viewers in a bygone era of fedoras, jazz music, and prohibition-era speakeasies.

As the elaborate con unfolds, viewers are treated to a series of unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a thrilling climax that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. With its stellar cast, sharp dialogue, and stylish direction, The Sting remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire filmmakers and entertain audiences to this day.

The Hangover (2009)

Rounding out our list is The Hangover, a raucous comedy that takes a decidedly irreverent approach to the casino movie genre. Directed by Todd Phillips and starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis, the film follows a group of friends as they embark on a wild bachelor party weekend in Las Vegas that goes hilariously awry.

What sets The Hangover apart from other casino movies is its focus on outrageous humour, absurd situations, and larger-than-life characters. From the moment the characters wake up with no memory of the previous night’s events to their frantic search for the groom-to-be, the film delivers non-stop laughs and unexpected twists at every turn.

As the characters navigate their way through a series of increasingly absurd and outrageous situations, viewers are treated to a wild ride that defies expectations and revels in its own absurdity. With its memorable characters, quotable dialogue, and outrageous humour, The Hangover has become a modern classic and a favourite among fans of casino movies and comedies alike.

Honourable Mentions

While the top five rated casino movies undoubtedly offer captivating narratives and unforgettable performances, there are several honourable mentions that also deserve recognition for their contributions to the genre.

Firstly, 21 (2008), directed by Robert Luketic, is based on the true story of a group of MIT students who use their mathematical prowess to count cards and win big at blackjack tables in Las Vegas. Starring Jim Sturgess and Kevin Spacey, this film combines elements of suspense and drama with the thrill of high-stakes gambling.

Another notable mention is Rain Man (1988), directed by Barry Levinson and starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. While not exclusively focused on casinos, the film features a memorable sequence in which Cruise’s character takes his autistic brother, played by Hoffman, to Las Vegas, where his exceptional memory and mathematical abilities enable him to excel at blackjack.

Additionally, Croupier (1998), directed by Mike Hodges and starring Clive Owen, offers a unique perspective on the world of casinos through the eyes of a professional croupier. The film explores themes of addiction, manipulation, and moral ambiguity, providing a gritty and thought-provoking portrayal of the casino industry.

While these films may not have cracked the top five, they nevertheless offer compelling stories, memorable characters, and captivating performances that contribute to the rich tapestry of casino-themed cinema.

Conclusion

From the high-stakes world of international espionage to the comedic chaos of a bachelor party gone wrong, the top-rated casino movies offer something for every viewer. Whether you’re a fan of pulse-pounding action, intricate heists, or laugh-out-loud comedy, these films showcase the thrill and excitement of the casino experience in all its forms. So, grab some popcorn, place your bets and get ready for a cinematic journey unlike any other.

Paramount+ today announced that its new original comedy series FRASIER, starring Kelsey Grammer, has been renewed for a second season. Season one currently is available to stream exclusively on Paramount+.

Produced by CBS Studios, season two of FRASIER will continue to film in front of a live studio audience at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. The series follows Frasier Crane (Grammer) in the next chapter of his life after he returns to Boston to face new challenges, forge new relationships and – with hope – finally fulfill an old dream or two.

“Kelsey made a triumphant return as one of the most iconic and beloved characters on television,” said Jeff Grossman, Executive Vice President, Programming, Paramount+. “The new series introduced FRASIER to a whole new generation while reminding fans of Kelsey’s truly timeless portrayal of Dr. Crane. We’re so excited to see what the creative team and superb cast serve up for season two.”

“FRASIER is a love story, and I am very happy we will be allowed to continue it. I’m delighted that our partners at CBS Studios and Paramount+ are on board for another season, and I can’t wait for the fans to see what we have in store!” said Kelsey Grammer, star and executive producer of FRASIER.

In addition to Grammer, the series stars Jack Cutmore-Scott as Freddy, Frasier’s son; Nicholas Lyndhurst as Alan, Frasier’s old college buddy turned university professor; Toks Olagundoye as Olivia, Alan’s colleague and head of the university’s psychology department; Canadian Jess Salgueiro as Eve, Freddy’s roommate; and Anders Keith as David, Frasier’s nephew. Season one featured guest appearances from original series cast, including Bebe Neuwirth and Peri Gilpin.

The original Frasier still holds the record for most Emmy® wins for a comedy series with 37 wins and 107 nominations.

FRASIER comes from writers Chris Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and Joe Cristalli (Life in Pieces), who executive produce with Kelsey Grammer, Tom Russo and Jordan McMahon. The series is produced by CBS Studios in association with Grammer’s Grammnet NH Productions. The series is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution outside of the Paramount+ markets.

By Mr. Will Wong

Animated Nickelodeon series AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER left behind a legacy that is remembered to this day with a devout following. Lasting 2005-2008, the Series is now re-imagined in the live-action format, ready to be unleashed on Netflix later this month!

Synopsis:

The four nations – water, earth, fire and air – once lived in harmony, only to undergo upheaval. Hope lies in Aang (Gordon Cormier), a young Air Nomad — and the last of his kind — who realizes his destiny as the next Avatar. He and others in the Southern Water Tribe embarks on a journey to save the world from the tyrannical Fire Lord Ozai (Daniel Dae Kim), all while Crown Prince Zuko (Dallas James Liu) is in pursuit of them. AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER is not only about the journey, but the many personalities Aang and his allies encounter along the way.

We were thrilled to partake in a virtual press junket with the Cast of this exciting new Series, which happened to be filmed here at home in Vancouver. Joining us were:

The Cast are asked what the orignal Nickelodeon series meant to them, including the Lead Actor Gordon Cormier, who happens to be Canadian.

Cormier: “Yeah, no, I didn’t actually watch it before I booked the role. But after I figured out what the show was, I started watching it and binging it, and then really fell in love with my character, with the TV show, and since then, I’ve seen it about 26 times. So, people could say I like the show.”.

Kiawentio: “Yeah, I grew up with the show, so I wish I had a moment that was like when I first discovered it. But it was just kind of like always in my life. I was born like after it came out, so [laugh], so yeah, but I have older siblings that would watch it too. So, it was just kind of like always a part of my life growing up. And then rediscovering it later when it was put on Netflix and just falling in love all over again.

Ousley: “The Last Airbender was something that I did watch as a kid before landing the role. And it is actually a huge reason why I started participating in martial arts. And as you guys know, like, you know, there’s a lot of bending sequences and, you know, a lot of the bending styles are influenced by real life martial arts styles. So, just beiing able to be a part of this has been a privilege.”.

The Cast, including veterans Daniel Dae Kim (Lost, Hawaii Five-0) and Paul Sun-Hyung Lee (Kim’s Convenience) are asked about their experiencing ‘bending’ on-camera and attending bootcamp for it. The method of Martial Arts, based on the Baguazhang style, involves smooth coiling and uncoiling actions, employing dynamic footwork, throws, and hand techniques

Leung: “Well, I mean, we didn’t see what it would look like until, you know, [laugh] until afterwards. So, I mean, for me, it was more about a kind of concentrated energy. And it was this choreographed motion. So, it was, I mean, it was that. It was like a choreographed, you know, it was choreography.

Cormier: “Oh, okay. What was the boot camp like? It was incredible, personally, for me. I was really high energy, or I am real high energy person. No lie there. But it was really exciting for me personally because I also really enjoyed the Martial Arts part of it. And I had so much energy. Like it would be so easy for me to go on and on and on, run forms back to back to back to back, and just wire work was incredible. So, I had a really good experience with boot camp.”.

Kim: “Can I just say that, you know, all these young actors here, they were running around, doing their scenes, prepping their work as actors, and then in between set ups, they were coming into the stage where they had the stunts set up and pads and all the stunt people were waiting there. So, there was very little down time for everybody. Their work ethic was exemplary. They were taking time that they didn’t have to be there and wanting to make things right. And that was really impressive for us OGs to see.”.

Lee: “Man, that was humbling. It was humbling because, and props to the entire stunt team, the coordinators, the fight choreographers. They really brought it and for me, it was an intensive like two or three week process where I had to go in and they would video, they would record each session on an iPhone.”.

“And I had to learn how to move, how to breathe properly. I’d have to stretch, which is something that become harder and harder as the days go by, right? And so, we’d be working these scenes and then we’d work out the choreo and we’d run it and they’d tape it and I’d go okay. And in your brain, you’re thinking I look really good. And then you watch the playback and you go, oh, no, I do not look as good as I think I am. And so, the patience of the team was tremendous. And when you feel you have that level of support, and from every source we felt we were fully supported. Like that’s what I loved about the experience was they worked with us tirelessly and they were always available if we wanted to do extra. Because they wanted us to succeed, and they knew the bending has to look right. In this world, for it to be believable, you have to do it right. And I love that commitment to detail. And as a performer, you don’t wanna let people down, either.”

“And it also helps when you have a prodigy who’s doing all the heavy lifting in all the sequences to just sort of like lean back and watch him do his magic. And all of them really, it is a tremendous privilege to see them do their thing. And it’s gonna be wonderful when the rest of the world gets to see them do their thing.”.

The Cast also are asked about the resources and inspirations used in bringing their characters to life in live-action.

Yu: “Well, obviously the original show. And I watched a lot of YouTube videos of the fans breaking down. And I think it was also important to note how the audience viewed these people. Yeah, and you know, we have the comics as well. I think that something I connected with Azula more profoundly with is this sort of place where she is where she’s a woman in power surrounded by a male dominated kingdom, you know. And I think that that struggle a lot of women can connect to and also the word being thrown around where, you know, she’s crazy or she’s insane. I feel like that is really telling for, you know, what women in power go through. And I think on our show, we sort of like stray away from that and kind of explain further into who she is and where she’s coming from. Yeah. I think I pull a lot from myself to be able to connect with her because it’s so outlandish sometimes, she may be doing.”.

Liu: “Similar to Lizzy, I also did a deep dive into YouTube analysis videos. But I really think our source material was research in itself. Every time we got scripts and things like that, because there are a lot of similarities, but also many differences in our show. And so sometimes, you know, when the circumstances of our characters might slightly be different, I think it changes that character as well while maintaining the essence of what the original creators had in mind.”.

“And also at the end of the day, because we are making this live action adaptation, I don’t think anybody here would wanna do an impersonation of these characters, of an animation. I think we really did our best in making these people real and allowing for everything that was going on in the world to, you know, be grounded.”.

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER arrives February 22, 2024 on Netflix.