Home Blog Page 107

Russell Tovey and Tom Blyth Set to Star in a New Gay Drama

Starring the formidable pair, Russell Tovey and Tom Blyth, Plainclothes promises to vividly animate a cherished queer narrative.

Blythe & Tovey: A Dazzling Duo

That’s right! Tom Blyth, the heartthrob from The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, and Russell Tovey, known for his roles in Looking and Years and Years, are teaming up to lead the cast in this much-anticipated queer drama. Set against the backdrop of a gripping true story, their combined star power is sure to ignite the film with unmatched intensity and charm.

Related | Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor are Starring in a New Queer Drama and People Don’t Know How to Feel

A Story that Speaks Volumes

Plainclothes takes us on a thrilling journey to Syracuse, New York, during the 1990s, where an undercover cop is on a mission to entrap gay men. But here’s the twist – he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to one of his targets. Inspired by true events and echoing the protests of the human rights group OutRage! against police entrapment in the ’90s, this film is not just entertainment; it’s a powerful narrative that resonates with struggles and triumphs from the past.

Behind the Scenes of ‘Plainclothes’

The brains behind the film is none other than the talented Carmen Emmi, who’s making waves with his directorial debut. Produced by the visionary trio of Arthur Landon, Colby Cote, and Eric Podwall, this film is all set to be a cinematic masterpiece that tackles complex themes like identity, love, and the battle against societal norms.

Why You Can’t Miss It

With a compelling story, a stellar cast, and a team of creative geniuses behind the scenes, Plainclothes is more than just a movie; it’s an experience. As Russell Tovey once remarked, reflecting on the era of Section 28, this film is a tribute to those who’ve navigated the challenges of self-expression and acceptance in a not-so-accepting world.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to be swept off your feet by this enchanting and thought-provoking drama that promises to be a feast for the senses and a celebration of love in its purest form.

More Stories:

Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for the Oscars this Weekend

Hollywood is buzzing, and the 2024 Oscars are about to light up your weekend! It’s the night when stars shine brightest, and this year’s show is packed with amazing films, stellar performances, and a dash of dazzle. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive into the essentials you need to know for Oscar night!

The Fabulous Films and Stars Vying for Gold

This year’s Oscars are all about variety, with movies and actors from around the globe getting a nod. Categories like Best Picture and Best Actor are hot topics, and the International Feature Film section is like a world tour of cinema—chock-full of entries from Italy to Japan!

Major Contenders and a Nod to LGBTQ+ Pride

The race is on with top-notch nominees like Annette Bening lighting up the screen in Nyad. Plus, there’s a splash of rainbow pride with LGBTQ+ stories and actors in the spotlight, like the groundbreaking nomination for Colman Domingo.

Netflix

Oscar Night: Expect the Unexpected!

The 2024 Oscars promise thrills with a lineup that includes heavy hitters like Killers of a Flower Moon and Barbie. Prepare for an evening brimming with emotion, style, and maybe a surprise or two. Plus, performances from stars like Ariana Grande will add extra sparkle to the night.

Star-Studded Serenades

Get ready for an auditory feast at this year’s Oscars, as a lineup of stellar artists takes the stage to bring the nominated songs to life. Imagine the soulful vibes of Jon Batiste as he performs “It Never Went Away” from American Symphony, followed by the fiery Becky G delivering “The Fire Inside” from Flamin’ Hot. The enchanting duo Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell are set to captivate with “What Was I Made For?” from Barbie, while Ryan Gosling and Mark Ronson will team up for a dynamic performance of “I’m Just Ken. Scott George and the Osage Singers will offer a poignant rendition of “Wahzhazhe [A Song For My People]” from Killers of the Flower Moon.

Where to Watch the Nominees

Haven’t seen all the nominated flicks? No worries! Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu are your ticket to a pre-Oscar movie marathon. Whether it’s the gripping tale of Past Lives or the chilling storyline of The Zone of Interest, you’re in for a treat!

How to Join the Oscars Extravaganza

No matter where you are, you can be part of the action. Tune in from around the globe, or stream it live on ABC to catch every jaw-dropping moment and glamorous red carpet arrival. Additionally, you can watch live on abc.com and the ABC app or through streaming services such as Hulu Live TV, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV and FuboTV.

Mark Your Calendars!

Remember, the Oscars kick off on March 10 at 7 pm ET. It’s a night of cheers, tears, and cinematic cheers, so be sure to tune in and witness movie magic unfold!

More Stories:

Lindsay Lohan Confirms ‘Freaky Friday 2’ – “We’re Going to Have a Lot of Fun With This”

Get ready for a blast from the past as Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis gear up for a thrilling ride back to the world of Freaky Friday! With a new sequel in the works, these two stars are about to bring more fun and laughter than ever before. Let’s dive into the details!

A Freaky Friday Reunion

Speaking to PEOPLE, Lindsay Lohan is ecstatic about teaming up with Jamie Lee Curtis once again. The duo, who chat like besties nearly daily, are stoked to explore new adventures in their upcoming film. While the nitty-gritty of filming dates and scripts are still under wraps, Lohan’s enthusiasm is through the roof. “We’re going to have a lot of fun with this,” she beams. According to the actress, the film is “in the process” of being made, and filming is up next.

Related | ‘Jennifer’s Body’ Creator Is Ready For a Sequel

Sequel Buzz and Anticipation

Remember that iconic mother-daughter switch in Freaky Friday? Well, get ready for round two! Curtis and Lohan reminisced about their iconic roles and hinted at the sequel’s potential during a heart-to-heart with the New York Times. Curtis even reached out to Disney, sensing fans’ eagerness for a sequel.

https://giphy.com/gifs/disney-lindsay-lohan-remake-freaky-friday-9pRBnNMbyKImI

Star Power and Scripting

Mark Harmon, another familiar face from the original flick, believes Curtis has the magic touch to make the sequel a reality. “If she’s talking about it, then it’ll happen,” he confidently told Kelly Clarkson.

Scriptwriter Elyse Hollander is busy crafting the sequel’s story, aiming to recapture the charm that made the 2003 film a hit. With $160 million in box office earnings, the Lohan-Curtis Freaky Friday is a tough act to follow. Fans are buzzing with excitement, hoping for another heartwarming, hilarious swap.

Looking Forward

While we all wait for the sequel, don’t forget to catch Lohan in her latest Netflix release, Irish Wish, coming this March. It’s her second Netflix gig following the success of Falling for Christmas. So, grab your popcorn and stay tuned for more laughs, surprises, and, of course, a little bit of freaky Friday magic!

More Stories:

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ Has Been Renewed for 2 More Seasons

Netflix has renewed the live-action series adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender, creating excitement among fans for deeper exploration of beloved characters and storylines.

Netflix Cast Has Heartwarming Reaction to Series Renewal

Netflix’s announcement to renew the live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender for two more seasons has sent waves of excitement across the fanbase and the entertainment industry alike. Following the remarkable success of the initial season, this decision underscores Netflix’s confidence in the series and its dedication to expanding the captivating universe of Aang and the team.

The original animated series, known for its rich storytelling, diverse characters, and intricate world-building, set a high bar. But Netflix’s live-action version aims to honor this legacy while introducing the magic of the Four Nations to a new generation of viewers.

Watch the cast joyfully react to the news below!

What’s ‘Avatar’ All About

In the enchanting universe of Avatar: The Last Airbender, the world is segmented into four distinct societies: the Water Tribes, Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation, and Air Nomads, each with its unique culture and people who can manipulate, or “bend,” their elemental force. However, the Avatar, a being reincarnated through the ages, possesses the unique ability to control all four elements, tasked with maintaining harmony across the nations. The narrative centers on Aang, the latest incarnation of the Avatar and the sole survivor of the Air Nomads, embarking on a monumental journey to master water, earth, and fire, having already mastered air. Accompanied by a band of loyal friends, Aang’s quest is not only to halt the Fire Nation’s conquest but also to reconcile the world’s division and bring peace.

This epic saga weaves a rich tapestry of friendship, identity, and destiny, set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of total war. Aang, with his companions Katara, a waterbender; Sokka, a warrior of the Water Tribe; and later Toph, an earthbending prodigy, traverses the globe, seeking masters to complete Aang’s elemental training. Their journey is fraught with challenges, from the physical to the philosophical, forcing each character to confront their past, embrace their identity, and define their destiny. Through this beautifully animated series, themes of courage, loyalty, and the importance of balance resonate deeply, captivating viewers young and old, and establishing Avatar: The Last Airbender as a seminal work in animated storytelling.

What’s Next: Seasons 2 and 3 Storylines

As Netflix breathes new life into the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender with two more seasons, the journey gets even more exhilarating. Season 2 is poised to whisk us away to the Earth Kingdom, a realm of immense depth and intrigue, where Team Avatar will encounter fresh faces and formidable foes. This season is not just about the physical journey but also an exploration into the moral complexities and the resilience of the human (and not-so-human) spirit. The inclusion of beloved characters from the animated series and possibly new ones exclusive to the live-action adaptation will add layers to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of stories that resonate on multiple levels.

Moving into Season 3, the stakes are higher than ever. The looming shadow of the Fire Nation grows darker, setting the stage for epic confrontations and soul-searching dilemmas. This season promises a rollercoaster of emotions as Aang and his companions confront their destinies head-on. The anticipated climax, drawing parallels with the animated series, will likely bring to fruition Aang’s transformation and his ultimate confrontation with the Fire Nation. The focus on Zuko’s redemption arc, his complex relationship with Aang, and the intricate dance of friendship, betrayal, and growth will captivate viewers, ensuring a conclusion that’s both satisfying and true to the spirit of the original series.

Cast and Crew Details

Avatar: The Last Airbender has a group of actors that fans really love. Gordon Cormier plays Aang and does an amazing job showing Aang’s fun and wise sides. This makes both new viewers and longtime fans happy. Daniel Dae Kim helps make the show too, not just acting but also giving good advice as a producer. He knows much about making TV shows and helps make this one special.

The show also has many different actors who help make the world of Avatar feel real. Kiawentiio plays Katara, and Ian Ousley plays Sokka. They act very well and make their characters feel like the ones from the cartoon, but also add something new. The people making the show, like Albert Kim, work hard to stay true to the original cartoon while also telling new stories and going deeper into the characters’ lives. Netflix wants to share different kinds of stories, and this show does that by showing many kinds of characters and ideas.

Avatar: The Last Airbender is now streaming on Netflix.

More Stories:

From Instagram Stars to Trailblazing HGTV Hosts: Meet Kristin Leitheuser & Davina Thomasula

Kristin and Davina are the first female queer couple to host on HGTV.

Meet Kristin Leitheuser and Davina Thomasula, the dynamic duo from Poughkeepsie, New York, who’ve leaped from Instagram fame to become HGTV’s newest stars. Their new show, Small Town Big Dreams, sets screens ablaze with creativity and charm, proving this sapphic couple is here to revolutionize home renovation TV.

Related | Jeremiah Brent Grabs the Queer Eye Baton from Bobby Berk!

A Homegrown Journey to Stardom

It all began with Davina’s knack for sharing their home renovation journey on Instagram. Their captivating posts caught the eye of HGTV’s casting team, and voilà, Small Town Big Dreams was born. Set against the picturesque backdrop o f the Hudson Valley, the show offers a fresh take on transforming hidden gems into spectacular spaces.

In this groundbreaking series, Davina dons the hat of both real estate whiz and design extraordinaire, while Kristin wields the hammer, bringing their visions to life. This power couple isn’t just breaking down walls in homes; they’re shattering glass ceilings, being the first queer women to host an HGTV show.

Embracing Responsibility and Visibility

Davina opened up about the significance of their role to Today.com: “I’m so nervous. I feel like it’s such a big responsibility. But we want to be visible and create awareness. I think that’s really important for our community. So we’re proud to be here, and this is what we want to do.”

Adding a sprinkle of family love to the mix, Kristin’s dad, Don, a skilled carpenter, joins the renovation escapades, infusing the show with wisdom and warmth. Kristin shares, “Working with family is a rollercoaster—full of highs, lows, and everything in between, but it’s the joy we find in togetherness that truly lights up our work.”

A Tale of Love and Partnership

The couple’s journey began over a pint of Guinness in NYC, leading them to create a cherished neighborhood bar and embark on a decade-long partnership, both in life and work. While they juggle the intricacies of their relationship and professional dynamics, their bond only grows stronger, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth and laughter.

In their TV debut, Kristin and Davina breathe new life into a historic 1800s farmhouse, showcasing their talent, passion, and vision. Their journey from Instagram influencers to HGTV pioneers is not just a tale of personal triumph but a beacon of representation and inspiration in the world of home renovation.

Don’t miss out on the magic of Small Town Big Dreams, where Kristin and Davina turn old houses into dream homes and pave the way for inclusivity and innovation on the home design front!

More Stories:

Nicholas Galitzine Gushes Over Bold Queer Scenes in ‘Mary & George’

Nicholas Galitzine is beaming with pride over his daring role in the latest historical drama, Mary & George, and it’s easy to see why! This thrilling series has caught everyone’s attention, and we’re here to spill all the details.

A Dive into the Past with a Modern Twist

In Mary & George, airing on Sky, we journey back to the times of kings and queens through a seven-episode saga based on real-life events. Nicholas Galitzine, known for his role in Red, White & Royal Blue, steps into the shoes of George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, showcasing a spectrum of love and ambition.

Related | Homophobes Are Angry Over Tom Holland’s Gay Love Scene

A Tale of Love, Power, and Identity

George’s quest to climb the English social ladder is far from ordinary, as his mother, played by the iconic Julianne Moore, devises a bold plan involving England’s King James I. George, though initially uncertain about his feelings, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling his desires and identity through unexpected and steamy encounters.

Behind the Scenes with Nicholas Galitzine

Galitzine’s portrayal of George’s intimate experiences is a cornerstone of his character’s evolution. “Those scenes were pivotal for understanding George’s past and present,” he told Digital Spy, emphasizing the significance of these moments in shaping his character’s journey. His dedication to bringing authenticity and depth to George’s story shines through, particularly in the passionate scenes that have fans worldwide buzzing.

https://twitter.com/giogiorubbish/status/1764870557063942614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1764870557063942614%7Ctwgr%5E0c4d1b5e3630bb8c46bc3ddbaad7654ccfc08061%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepinknews.com%2F2024%2F03%2F06%2Fnicholas-galitzine-so-proud-mary-and-george-queer-sex-scenes%2F

The buzz grew so loud that Galitzine apologized online for “breaking the internet.”

Unfortunately, the US is going to have to wait a bit longer to see what all the talk is about.

Love and Drama in Jacobean England

Mary & George isn’t just about the steamy moments; it delves deep into the emotional connections and complex relationships of its characters. Galitzine highlights the genuine affection between George and King James, adding layers of beauty and truth to their interactions.

He told Attitude, “We’re interested in an honest portrayal of this era, Jacobean England. Certainly, from my perspective, the relationship between George and King James was… the pure love that grew between them albeit it was transactional at first it grew into something really, really beautiful. And I think that’s really reflected in the scenes, which is lovely.”

How to Stream

Mary & George is streaming now on Sky Atlantic and NOW and premieres Friday, April 5 on Starz.

https://youtu.be/OYI7FtJr20c

More Stories:

Dakota Johnson Waves Goodbye to Superhero Movies: ‘That World Isn’t for Me’

Get ready to bid farewell to Dakota Johnson’s brief stint in superhero cinema, as the Madame Web star reveals her one-and-done deal with comic book blockbusters!

A One-Time Heroine

After Madame Web, Dakota Johnson hints she is done with superhero films. She tells Bustle, “I don’t make sense in that world,” accepting this following her latest role.

Madame Web: A Singular Experience

Johnson’s venture into the superhero realm as Cassandra Webb, a psychic-powered paramedic, was a daring leap. Yet, the outcome, a mix of box office underperformance and critical thumbs-downs, has only cemented her stance.

“Of course it’s not nice to be a part of something that’s ripped to shreds, but I can’t say that I don’t understand.”

The Creative Struggle in Hollywood

Diving deeper, Johnson sheds light on a broader issue in Tinseltown. She voices her concern over the diminishing trust in filmmakers’ visions, noting how even smaller projects are now falling prey to the whims of committees over the creative instincts of artists. “Art does not do well when it’s made by committee,” Johnson asserts, championing the cause of authentic storytelling driven by genuine artistic collaboration, not cold data or algorithms.

At the heart of Johnson’s narrative is a call to respect the audience’s intelligence. She criticizes the shift in studio executives’ attitudes, challenging their underestimation of viewer discernment. Johnson firmly believes that authentic, human-crafted stories resonate more than any algorithmically generated content could ever hope to.

What’s Next for Dakota?

While her journey with Madame Web might not have hit the expected heights, Johnson’s experience has sharpened her vision for the future. Opting out of the superhero genre, she continues to captivate audiences with roles that resonate with her artistic sensibilities.

As Hollywood evolves, Dakota Johnson charts her own course. She seeks passionate roles that align with her artistic identity, leaving superhero capes and tights behind.

More stories:

JK Rowling Misgenders Trans Journalist in Controversial Post

JK Rowling, the writer behind Harry Potter, is in hot water, again.

This time, she’s facing criticism for misgendering India Willoughby, a well-known trans journalist, in a lengthy controversial social media post. Willoughby, renowned for her role as Britain’s first out trans newsreader, slammed Rowling’s comments as “grotesque.”

The Spark of Controversy

The trouble began when Rowling shared her views online, suggesting that trans women be excluded from women-only spaces.

Unsurprisingly, her argument sparked a heated debate online.

Things escalated when a user asked Rowling if she thought India Willoughby should use the men’s locker room. Willoughby is recognized as Britain’s pioneering out trans newsreader and the first trans co-host on ITV’s all-women talk show, Loose Women.

But Rowling denied her identity and called her portrayal of womanhood a “cosplay” of a “misogynistic male fantasy.”

Related | Watch Nick Offerman Slam “Homophobic Hate” at the Spirit Awards

Willoughby’s Powerful Rebuttal

Hurt but undeterred, Willoughby hit back, affirming her identity. “I am every bit as much a woman as JK Rowling,” she stated, highlighting her legal and social recognition as a woman. The back-and-forth has reignited discussions about Rowling’s stance on transgender issues, with many online voices criticizing her approach.

Rowling Doubles Down

Despite the backlash, Rowling didn’t back down. She continued to express her opinions, using language that many found offensive and dismissive of trans identities. Her remarks have fueled the debate and altered how fans and colleagues view her.

The Bigger Picture

Rowling’s comments have wider implications. They reflect ongoing tensions in discussions about gender and identity. While she claims her words are misunderstood, the reactions from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts stars, alongside the broader community, suggest a growing divide.

Looking Forward

The clash between Rowling and Willoughby highlights a critical conversation about respect, identity, and understanding in today’s society. As this dialogue unfolds, it’s clear that words matter and the impact of public figures’ statements can be profound.

https://twitter.com/lonelyluchadore/status/1764665249074987511

In this ongoing saga of debate and discussion, the hope is for more empathy and less divisiveness, fostering a world where every identity is respected and understood.

More Stories:

Girls5eva: Hitting the High Notes Again in Season 3 This March!

Get ready to hit “play” on your Netflix queue because Girls5eva is making a grand comeback with its third season out on March 14! The new season and the first two are also landing on Netflix, ready to fill your screen with laughter, music, and a dash of nostalgia.

Related | Discover Everything Coming to Netflix in 2024

Back in the Spotlight: What’s Girls5eva All About?

Imagine a ’90s girl group that had their moment under the spotlight and stepped away. Fast forward to the present, and that’s where Girls5eva picks up. Starring Sara Bareilles, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Busy Philipps, and Paula Pell, the show follows these once-famous ladies as they give fame another shot. They’re dealing with everything life throws at them, from family duties to aching shoulders, all while chasing their dream of reclaiming stardom.

The brains behind the show, including creator Meredith Scardino and executive producers like Tina Fey, are all set to bring more laughs and catchy tunes in the upcoming season. “We’re excited to bring the gang back together on Netflix and share our show with viewers worldwide,” say the producers. And if you’re sharp, you might have caught a glimpse of Girls5eva in a cheeky cameo at Woodstock ’99 in a Netflix documentary!

Netflix

What’s New in Season 3?

Season 3 is all about the big comeback! Dawn, Wickie, Summer, and Gloria are not just reuniting; they’ve got a brand new album, Returnity. But what’s a music group without a tour? With no plan and just a van, they set off on an unpredictable journey to win back their spot in the limelight. They’ll face everything from wild birthday bashes to introspective moments, questioning their desires and dreams along the way. It’s a bumpy ride filled with humor, heart, and, of course, fabulous music.

Tune In Time: When to Watch

Mark your calendars for March 14 because that’s when the magic happens. Netflix is the place to be, with Season 3 dropping alongside the first two seasons for a full-on Girls5eva marathon. Whether you’re meeting the ladies for the first time or reuniting with old friends, prepare for a season filled with fun, challenges, and those catchy tunes you can’t help but love. Girls5eva is here to prove they’re not just a one-hit wonder but a forever favorite!

More Stories:

Harvey Guillén Cheers for Queer Representation in Disney’s Future

Even though mainstream animated films have been a bit slow on the uptake, Harvey Guillén, the beloved What We Do in the Shadows actor, sees a rainbow at the end of the tunnel for LGBTQ+ representation in Disney animations.

Guillén’s Optimistic Outlook

While chatting with ComicBook.com, Guillén, who also voiced a character in Wish, expressed his confidence in Disney’s journey toward inclusivity. “They’re making strides in the right direction,” he remarked. Reimagining the wheel of animation isn’t easy, but according to Guillén, Disney is stepping up. The idea of a queer Disney princess isn’t just a dream; Guillén believes it’s a possibility in the very near future.

“I think that we are in the lifespan of that potentially happening,” he said. “It takes time with stuff like that. Representation has taken so long just in film in general with every studio and every company. And so it’s taken us this far to come this far but look how far we’ve gotten.” 

Disney’s Magical World Embraces Diversity

For years, Disney has captivated us with stories of heroism, adventure, and magic. Yet, the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in these tales is a relatively new chapter in Disney’s narrative. Recent films like Frozen, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Luca have hinted at a more inclusive future, showcasing characters that resonate with queer audiences.

A Look Back: Queer Coding in Disney

Before openly celebrating LGBTQ+ characters, Disney subtly included them through queer coding. Characters like Hades from Hercules and Jafar from Aladdin carried traits commonly associated with LGBTQ+ stereotypes. This method provided a glimpse of representation, albeit in a nuanced and sometimes problematic way, during less accepting times.

Breaking New Ground in Representation

The landscape is shifting with characters like Officer Specter in Onward and Artie in Cruella, who represent a more explicit acknowledgment of LGBTQ+ identities. Disney’s TV shows, such as The Owl House and Andi Mack, have also made significant strides by portraying queer characters authentically, moving beyond mere insinuations to genuine representation.

Overcoming Hurdles: Disney’s Journey Amidst Controversy

Despite its progress, Disney’s path to inclusivity hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing global audience expectations has led to controversies, including censorship in various regions. Moreover, the criticism over portraying LGBTQ+ characters as secondary or stereotypical underscores the ongoing struggle for meaningful representation.

The presence of LGBTQ+ characters in Disney animations is more than a nod to diversity; it’s a powerful tool for building empathy and understanding. For LGBTQ+ youth, seeing themselves reflected in these stories can be incredibly affirming, offering role models and a sense of belonging. Harvey Guillén’s enthusiasm shines a light on the potential for more inclusive and representative Disney narratives. With voices like his advocating for change, the hope for a queer Disney hero doesn’t seem so far-fetched after all.

More Stories: