Movies

Every once in a while, we stop to marvel at the politics of Hollywood.

We're talking, of course,about Mike Judge's new satire, "Idiocracy," a $30 million film which Fox has unceremoniously dumped at the end of the summer with nary a bit of advertising or promotion.

So far, most of the coverage of its senseless burial has focused on what is the 21st century equivalent of sacrilege: Treating actual brands with disrespect on-screen. Admittedly, at Fox, that borders on the heretical: Last year's "Robots" lined up $100 million in promotional partnerships - which is to say about $25 million more than the movie actually cost to make.

As the U.K. paper "The Guardian" notes today,

"There is venomous anti-corporate satire throughout the movie, remarkable mainly because Judge names real corporations. I was astounded - and invigorated - by the sheer vitriol Judge directs at these companies, who surely now regret permitting the use of their licensed trademarks. Like fast-food giant Carl's Jr, which in 2006 sells 6,000-calorie burgers the size of dictionaries under the slogan, "Don't Bother Me, I'm Eating". In Idiocracy, this has devolved into "Fuck You! I'm Eating!" And every commercial transaction has been sexualized: at Starbucks you can get coffee plus a handjob (or a "full body" latte).

Idiocracy isn't a masterpiece - Fox seems to have stiffed Judge on money at every stage - but it's endlessly funny, and my friends and I will be repeating certain lines for months (especially while eating), a sure sign of a cult hit. And word got out fast: I saw it last Saturday in a half-empty house. Two days later, same place, same show - packed-out. There's an audience for this movie, but its natural demographic barely knows it's out there."

What's so odd in all this is that Judge's movie might be risque, but certainly no more so than Larry Charles' new brilliantly titled (and brilliantly acted) film, " "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan" starring Sacha Baron Cohen, of "Ali G" fame.

As the "New York Times" observed yesterday,

"In one scene Borat insists on driving to California rather than flying, 'in case the Jews repeat their attack of 9/11.' As he tours the South, he becomes terrified when he learns that an elderly couple who run an inn are Jewish. When cockroaches crawl under the door of his room, he becomes convinced the innkeepers have transformed themselves into bugs, and throws money at them. In another scene Borat returns to his home village and participates in an annual ritual, 'The Running of the Jews,' complete with giant Jew puppets that the villagers beat with clubs."

Such satire is the stuff that keeps marketing departments awake at night, but its hardly unmanageable: "Borat" is getting a hefty push from Fox, unlike "Idiocracy" which hasn't screened for critics, has no print advertising, and is running on a handful of screens.

No, more likely is that Fox grew impatient with Judge after a June Esquire piece in which Fox was taken to task for meddling necessarily in the film's marketing. It contained lines like this one:

"...watching this hero of the wage-slave class acquiesce is a confusing and sad sight; after all, if the guy who made Office Space has to kowtow to his shithead boss, what hope is there for the rest of us?"

That couldn't have made life easier for Judge, who to hear talent agents speculate argued with, and plainly, lost, a battle with Fox chairman Tom Rothman over the ribald and iconoclastic content of the movie. Privately though, Fox insiders insist the decision to abandon ship came from the marketing department, not the production side.

Whatever the case, Judge isn't talking, and calls to Fox went unreturned at deadline.

In an effort to stay ahead of Apple's impending iTunes Movie Store, which will almost certainly be announced on September 12th, Amazon.com has launched its own Movie Download service today.

This means no more driving down to the video store to pick up the latest Will Ferrell flick or waiting for the mail carrier to deliver TMZ's Bergman films. Now, all it will take is broadband Internet connection and a computer to feed your movie watching addiction.

Prices for the new service vary depending on movie and the option of buying or renting the the film. Pricing for movie rental downloads are on a sliding scale while TV shows are at a firm $1.99. Consumers will also have the option to permanently own a program for a few dollars more.

Ellen DeGeneres is getting called up to the big leagues.

The popular daytime talk show host will host the 79th Annual Academy Awards, it was announced today. DeGeneres has previously hosted the Grammys twice and the Emmys twice.

The two-time Daytime Emmy winner for Outstanding Talk Show Host will follow in the footsteps of Jon Stewart, Chris Rock, Billy Crystal, Steve Martin and Whoopi Goldberg -- the last five Oscar hosts.

Movie buffs and perverts alike are chomping at the bit to see Josh Hartnett and Scarlett Johansson get down and dirty in "The Black Dahlia." But in a statement guaranteed to shock the majority of the male population, Hartnett says filming those sex scenes wasn't as easy as everyone thinks.

"It was very difficult for me," says Hartnett. "Those scenes are eternally awkward because you got a bunch of sweaty dudes sitting and watching you and you're just hoping to make it intimate, make it real."

Though the two are a couple off-camera, Hartnett was still a little hesitant about shooting the nude scene, which has already caused a stir at the Venice Film Festival. "Brian [DePalma, the director] didn't tell me about it until he'd shot a take ... and that take is in the movie and I'm like what are you doing man, you can't do that!"
"The Black Dahlia" opens September 15.

The star is back. A hot team of sequel scribes have turned in their script. The same producers are producing.

But for the love of Ra, please: Don't call it a sequel.

At least, that's the thinking at Universal Pictures, where the third installation of "The Mummy" is being readied to begin shooting early next year. TMZ has learned that Brendan Fraser has already agreed to return, but in a twist that reveals how high stakes the franchise movie business has become, the studio has actually promised potential directors that it won't be called "The Mummy 3."

Why?

Well, for starters, Sumner Redstone may have drubbed "Mission: Impossible 3" for coming up $150 million short in box office thanks to Tom Cruise's off-screen effectuation of "creative suicide," but the truth is, any movie with a number in its title begins its life with the press and the public betting against it creatively.

"Rocky 6"? Pah-thet-ic. "Rocky Balboa"? Intriguing.

"Superman 5"? A tired retread. "Superman Returns"? Count me in!

And if a studio waits too long between tentpole releases, as some speculate Paramount might have done with "Mission: Impossible 3 " and you can wind up on the wrong side of a demographic shift: Universal's original "Mummy" debuted in 1999, nearly eight years ago. The high school freshman who was popping zits on the night of its premiere is now looking for his first job out of college.

None of this has been lost on the folks at Universal, who hired "Smallville" creators Alfred Gough and Miles Millar to reimagine the Stephen Sommers epic for a new generation that's never even heard of "The Mummy."

Currently, Universal has made an offer to Joe Johnston ("Hidalgo, "October Sky") a protege of George Lucas and Stephen Spielberg, to direct. He's not likely to do it, insiders familiar with the talks say, because "Joe's not a sequel guy."

Huh? Then why did Johnston direct "Jurassic Park III" and, why Joe he attached to "Jurassic Park IV"?

"Um, Steven Spielberg?" comes the staccato reply.

You see, sequels, unless they're produced by Steven Spielberg, are for suckers.

"The Mummy 3"? It's not a sequel, people. It's not even a trilogy. It's a reimagining.

Look for it in theaters soon.

"These kids never played, never ever played football," The Rock said of the real kids portrayed in the film. "And they had four weeks to prepare and to play some tough teams and to go on and play in the state championships is a special, special thing."

For The Rock, this movie and these kids hit very close to home. "I was one of these kids," he admitted at the film's premiere. "I know what it's like to be arrested numerous amounts of times ... could have easily been locked up, easily. And I'm lucky I had someone in my life that cared and wanted to invest a little time in me."

"Gridiron Gang" hits theaters September 15.

What's the status of J-Lo's new Spanish CD?

Adwin, Jennifer Lopez's all-Spanish album "Como Ama Una Mujer" should hit stores this fall. She is working with Estefano, a producer who worked with her husband Marc Anthony and who has produced both Spanish and English albums for the Latin megastar.

To read more and listen to a public squash on a very public rumor, click here. And for the JLo photo gallery, take a look at this!

Is Larry the Cable Guy dating?

Lindy, Larry the Cable Guy (aka Daniel Lawrence Whitney) is actually married with a child! "Larry" and wife Cara Whitney welcomed their first child, Wyatt, into their family back on August 2. Unfortunately for his "Git-r-done" fans, "Blue Collar TV" didn't make the CW cut, but re-runs can be caught up until the new network launches in mid-September.

Critics at the Venice Film Festival were extremely harsh to the Darren Aronofsky film "The Fountain." The audience was apparently left perplexed by the film and even booed the film at a screening.

Rachel Weisz, who co-stars with Hugh Jackman of "X-Men" fame in the film, had this to say to say at a press conference. "I think it's wonderful that this film is so different, I would love to work with Darren again." We hope so, as the beautiful actress has more than a professional interest in the film. She is engaged to Aronofsky and recently gave birth to the couple's son Henry in May.

The film, which chronicles a man trying to find the fountain of youth in order to save his wife, has had its share of production woes. Originally, Brad Pitt was attached to the project. Once Brad left the film, the budget was slashed to $35 million and multiple film studios passed on the project, according to the Hollywood trades.

It isn't all work for George Clooney while he films "Ocean's 13." According to an insider on set at the Warner Bros. lot, George Clooney spends every free minute he has off camera on the court. The basketball court that is.

This isn't the first time we've heard of Clooney's hoop obsession. Back when George was on the cast of "E.R.", Warner Bros. actually built him his own court on the lot. Some actors do breathing excercises to prepare, Clooney shoots hoops. What a life!!

Puck. Omarosa. LC. If you're a fan of reality TV then you probably recognize those one name monikers and the "characters" that go with them.

With every passing day there seem to be more and more reality shows filled with an endless pool of wannabe stars clamoring for fame. While most will be forgotten faster than you can say Darva Conger, a rare few have managed to eek out legit careers. And by legit we mean more than just appearing on more reality shows.

TMZ reveals which reality stars have beaten the odds and gone on to become real stars.

Kelly Clarkson

At first, things didn't seem to look too good for America's first "Idol" winner. Shortly after obtaining the now illustrious crown, Kelly Clarkson co-starred in the 2003 film "From Justin to Kelly" with "Idol" loser Justin Guarini - may he rest in peace. The film turned out to be a flop of epic proportions. But the talented singer endured long enough to obtain new management and release the 2004 multi-platinum album "Breakaway," which featured 5 hit singles including the monster track "Since U Been Gone." While past "Idol" winners (and Clay Aiken) have gone on to earn platinum-selling albums, Clarkson is the only "Idol" to receive the biggest musical career legitimizer there is -- two Grammy awards. We'd like to see Simon Cowell badmouth that!

Johnny Knoxville

Not even Paris Hilton could have imagined that videotaping yourself getting kicked in the groin or barbecuing your steak-covered body on a grill could lead to a legitimate acting career. Well, that's exactly what happened to Johnny Knoxville after his MTV stunt show, and it's big screen version, "Jackass" became a huge hit. Soon Knoxville's fearless attitude and rockstar looks had the studios knocking down his doors. Johnny has gone on to star in over ten films including last summer's hit "The Dukes of Hazzard." While Knoxville hasn't abandoned his reality show roots, "Jackass: Number Two" comes out this month, nothing says you've arrived quite like being linked to your on screen co-star (Jessica Simpson).

Jacinda Barrett

Another MTV alum who's caught Hollywood's eye is former London "Real World" roommate Jacinda Barrett. Since appearing on the reality show in '95, the former model has been steadily building a solid resume. She's co-starred with A-listers like Anthony Hopkins and Nicole Kidman in "The Human Stain", and with Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant In "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason." This summer she starred in the remake of "Poseidon" and will next be seen with Zach Braff in "The Last Kiss" and with "Napoleon Dynamite's" Jon Heder in "School For Scoundrels." We think it's safe to say you won't be seeing Jacinda on a "Real World/Road Rules Challenge" in the near future.

Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Elisabeth Hasselbeck's experience roughing it in the wilds of "Survivor:The Australian Outback" was nothing compared to her mornings spent sparring with the other ladies on "The View." After her jungle days ended, Ms. Lizzie hosted E!'s "The Look for Less." That led to the high profile gig on "The View" and, eventually, to becoming Barbara Walters' conservative crybaby. And now that Meredith Vieira and Star Jones have left the show, Hasselbeck has firmly cemented her place at the gabfest's table. But with outspoken talkshow vet Rosie O'Donnell joining the morning show on September 5, all eyes will be on Elisabeth to see if she holds her own or crashes and burns under Rosie's reign. Regardless, as far as her career goes, and at least for now, it appears the tribe has spoken.

Jennifer Hudson

After filming scenes for the third entry to the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, everyone's favorite swashbuckler took time to meet and greet his fans.

While co-star Orlando Bloom tends to duck out of the fanfare, Johnny Depp has continually shown his appreciation for the people who've made "Pirates" one of the strongest box-office beasts.

As filming continues in the Redondo Beach area of Southern California, Jack Sparrow's ship, The Black Pearl, has been spotted floating off the shores, lit by torches at night.

"Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End" hits theaters May 2007.

Was it the rebel / punk influence of Johnny Ramone that inspired Nicolas Cage to star in the remake of the 1973 cult classic 'The Wickerman'? He did say that Johnny "was a fan."

But it's when Mr. Cage starts making statements like "[Wickerman] was so unlike any other movie I'd seen, so I kept thinking how we could recreate it and make it relevant to today," that the list of not-so-memorable 2006 remakes come to mind: 'The Hills Have Eyes', 'When A Stranger Calls', 'The Omen' ... and the list goes on and on.

Didn't Joaquin Phoenix have a different name before?

Yes, Ivette, Joaquin used to answer to another name -- Leaf! But it was not his birth name. He has always been Joaquin, but used the alias Leaf as a child and as a young actor. Around 1989, he dropped that name and returned to Joaquin.

That said, Joaquin will next be seen in "We Own the Night" with Mark Wahlberg, Robert Duvall and Eva Mendes. He will also star with Mark Ruffalo and Jennifer Connelly in the thriller "Reservation Road." Expect both flicks out next year.

For all things Joaquin, click here.

Wasn't Patricia Heaton supposed to get a TV show?

Sal, everybody's favorite Barone is indeed supposed to continue on with her television career. "The Path to 9/11" is a mini-series documenting the events which lead up to the tragic event. She can be seen here along with Donnie Wahlberg and Harvey Keitel on September 10 and 11 on ABC at 8/7c.

Her comedy pilot, however, did not get picked up, but, according to ABC president Stephen McPherson, it could be considered for a midseason replacement.

To read more about previous co-star Brad Garrett's show, click here.

Are Andy Roddick and Maria Sharapova together?

Jennifer, it looks like Andy and Maria are sharing more than their love for tennis. And it's been going on for more than a year, according to US Weekly. Although their age difference has been a reason for the hush-hushness thus far (Roddick is 24, Sharapova is 19), it seems as though they're finally comfortable letting it all hang out. With the U.S. Open going on, we'll have to wait and see if their off-the-court action translates onto the court.

For more hook-ups you might care about, take a look at this!

Will "King of Queens" return to TV this fall?

Norma, you won't be seeing "King of Queens" premiering in early fall, but you can expect to see the show midseason on CBS. Thirteen more episodes were ordered, however it was decided to save those final thirteen for later. Still, Kevin James was nominated this year for an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series -- so something's going right down there! The show is currently in negotiations for another season.

For more TV news, check this out!

What happened to Kelly from "Saved by the Bell"?

Tiffani Thiessen, of "Saved by the Bell" and "Beverly Hills, 90210" hasn't turned her back on the small screen just yet. She is filming with Faye Dunaway for the movie "Pandemic," a four-hour mini-series for the Hallmark Channel set for next summer. In this thriller, a doctor rushes to find a cure for bird flu spreading throughout Los Angeles.

Ben Affleck is getting sick of all the media focus put on his personal life and says it's hurting his career. While promoting his new film "Hollywoodland" at the Venice Film Festival, Affleck had a few words targeted at the celebrity-obesssed culture.

"I think more and more people pay attention to actor's private lives ... it makes it difficult to suspend disbelief when you are going to watch their movie because really what you are thinking about is whatever you have read about them in a magazine rather than the performance they are giving and it makes the actors job harder."

Affleck even got a bit poetic at the presser, telling reporters "the movies become incidental pit stops and commercial breaks in the soap opera of their life."

Scarlett Johansson's curvy figure has always drawn a lot of attention, but it is too hot for the big screen? While promoting her new film "The Black Dahlia" at the Venice Film Festival, the buxom blonde was bombarded with questions about a raunchy sex scene with on and off-screen boyfriend Josh Hartnett.

Though some of the press has called the romp a distraction from the film, Johansson is optimistic about the scene. "It's hard to get a perspective on that when it is you, but I hope that is not true. I mean, it's nice to be sexy but hopefully that is not overwhelming, hopefully it is in balance with the rest of the story."

Johansson also told reporters she was only following the direction of Brian De Palma saying he wanted it to be "aggressive ... an exorcism of sorts."

Audiences can check out the scorching scene when the movie hits theaters next month, though you'd have to be crazy to have a problem with a sexed-up Scarlett.