‘Elvis’ Producer Schuyler Weiss Champions Gold Coast as Global Production Hub at Tokyo Film Festival

Stella Donnelly's new album, 'Love and Fortune,' beautifully captures the bittersweet experience of losing a friend and rediscovering her passion for music. This heartfelt project not only showcases her talent but also resonates with anyone who has faced similar emotional challenges. By sharing her story, Donnelly invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the healing power of art.

The future of the Emmy-winning series 'Shogun' looks promising as producer Miyagawa Eriko expressed interest in filming upcoming seasons in Japan. During a panel at the Tokyo International Film Festival, she highlighted the need for improvements in infrastructure and incentives to make this a reality. This move could not only enhance the authenticity of the series but also boost Japan's film industry, making it a significant development for both fans and local filmmakers.

Exciting news for fans of Hong Kong cinema! The sequel to the popular film 'Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In' is set to begin shooting in March 2026, as announced by director Soi Cheang at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This development not only promises to continue the thrilling story that captivated audiences but also highlights the ongoing vitality of the Hong Kong film industry. With a prequel also in the works, this franchise is gearing up for a significant comeback, making it a noteworthy event for both fans and filmmakers alike.

The Tokyo International Film Festival's market arm, TIFFCOM, is experiencing remarkable growth, with CEO Shiina Yasushi highlighting a shift towards becoming a co-production and financing hub. This transformation is significant as it reflects the increasing international interest in Japanese cinema and the potential for collaborative projects. With 322 exhibiting companies expected in 2025, up from 283, TIFFCOM is positioning itself as a key player in the global film industry, fostering partnerships and innovation.

Peter Ho-sun Chan, a prominent Hong Kong filmmaker, shared insights into the evolving Asian film industry during a masterclass at the Tokyo International Film Festival. With over 35 years of experience, he highlighted significant changes in the business and provided a glimpse into the anticipated second part of his crime drama 'She Has No Name.' This discussion is crucial as it reflects the dynamic nature of filmmaking in Asia and the growing global interest in its narratives.

Paramount and UFC are taking their partnership to new heights with a seven-year expansion into Latin America and Australia, starting in 2026. This move not only enhances the UFC's global presence but also opens up exciting opportunities for fans in these regions to engage with mixed martial arts like never before. It's a significant step for both organizations, promising to bring thrilling events and increased visibility to the sport.

Paramount and UFC are set to expand their partnership, bringing UFC media rights to Paramount+ in Latin America and Australia starting in 2026. This move builds on their existing agreement in the U.S., making Paramount+ the exclusive platform for all UFC events in the country. This expansion is significant as it not only enhances Paramount's content offerings but also allows UFC to reach a broader audience in key international markets.

Carlo Chatrian, the jury president of the Tokyo International Film Festival, has raised alarms about a distribution crisis affecting independent cinema. He noted that many films in this year's competition lack distribution deals, highlighting the significant challenges faced by arthouse filmmakers globally. This situation is concerning as it threatens the visibility and viability of diverse storytelling in the film industry, making it crucial for stakeholders to address these distribution issues.

Dwayne Johnson is receiving Oscar buzz for his standout performance in 'The Smashing Machine,' a film that breaks away from typical wrestling biopics. Our critic Emma Jones highlights how this film offers a fresh perspective on the struggles of a wrestler, making it a must-see. Additionally, Jeremy Allen White shines as Bruce Springsteen in 'Deliver Me From Nowhere,' directed by Scott Cooper, which explores a challenging time in Springsteen's career. The article also introduces Laura Carreira, a new talent who poignantly captures the challenges of the gig economy and the feeling of loneliness, making this film show a significant cultural moment.

Kate Hudson recently shared her emotional experience watching her new film 'Song Sung Blue' alongside her mother, Goldie Hawn, and her partner, Kurt Russell. This film marks a significant role for Hudson, reminiscent of her iconic character Penny Lane. She emphasizes that while Oscar buzz is exciting, it doesn't define her worth as an actress. This perspective highlights her growth and commitment to her craft, making her journey relatable and inspiring for many.

Betsy Brandt, known for her role in Breaking Bad, has been cast as a series regular in the third season of Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches, joining Alexandra Daddario. Brandt will portray a character named Katherine, although details about her role remain a mystery. This casting news is exciting for fans as production is already underway in Salem, MA, promising to explore deeper aspects of the show's mythology.

Crunchyroll is launching a 24/7 channel on Samsung Smart TVs, bringing a curated selection of popular anime series to fans. Starting Wednesday, viewers can enjoy titles like 'Yu Yu Hakusho,' 'Assassination Classroom,' and 'Black Clover' with both English subtitles and dubbing. This initiative not only enhances accessibility for anime lovers but also highlights the growing popularity of streaming platforms in delivering niche content to wider audiences.

PBS Masterpiece has announced that its highly anticipated costume drama, 'The Forsytes,' will premiere on March 22, 2026. This adaptation of John Galsworthy's classic novels will not only be available for streaming on the PBS app and Prime Video but will also air weekly on PBS. This is exciting news for fans of period dramas, as it brings a beloved literary work to life, promising to engage viewers with its rich storytelling and historical context.

The 66th Thessaloniki International Film Festival, running from October 30 to November 9, aims to highlight the creativity and resilience of independent filmmakers during challenging times. Festival director Orestis Andreadakis emphasizes the importance of showcasing 'restless,' 'inventive,' and 'unpredictable' cinema, providing a platform for voices that often go unheard. This festival not only celebrates artistic expression but also reflects the current global climate, making it a significant event for both filmmakers and audiences alike.