Focus Features Seals Deal For Curry Barker’s ‘Obsession,’ Sets FocusFest Screening

Appian Way Productions, led by Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Davisson, is collaborating with producers Alex Cutler and Darryl Marshak to create a biopic about Bela Lugosi, the legendary Hungarian actor known for his portrayal of Dracula. This project, in partnership with Universal Pictures, aims to explore the life of Lugosi, who became a cultural icon through his performances on stage and screen. The involvement of acclaimed screenwriters Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski, known for their work on 'Ed Wood,' adds to the excitement, promising a compelling narrative that highlights Lugosi's impact on horror cinema.

Focus Features has made a significant move by acquiring 'Obsession,' a unique horror film directed by newcomer Curry Barker, for $14 million. This acquisition is noteworthy as it highlights the growing trend of studios investing in fresh talent and innovative storytelling. The film, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival, tells the story of a hopeless romantic entangled in a Faustian bargain, promising to captivate audiences with its blend of horror and romance.

The second trailer for 'Eternity,' a romantic comedy set in the afterlife, has just been released by A24, and it looks delightful! Directed by David Freyne, this film premiered at the 2025 Toronto Film Festival to mostly positive reviews and is set to hit theaters during Thanksgiving week. The story follows Joan, who must make a tough decision about where to spend her eternity, adding a unique twist to the romantic comedy genre. This film is generating buzz for its charming premise and engaging characters, making it a must-see this holiday season.

Kenji Tanigaki's 'The Furious' has been hailed as the best action movie of 2025, showcasing unparalleled fight scenes that set a new standard for the genre. Premiering at the Toronto Film Festival, this film has generated significant buzz, promising to captivate audiences with its intense action and thrilling sequences. Its impact on the action movie landscape is expected to be profound, as it raises the bar for future releases.

Tonight's episode of the celebrity series features the aftermath of the first banishment, leaving viewers wondering if Alan Carr will escape the consequences of his actions against Paloma Faith. The suspense continues as the show teases a cliffhanger from last week, keeping fans engaged. Additionally, there's an intriguing segment about a couple in Wales attempting to build an off-grid home for £100k, showcasing innovative living solutions. This blend of drama and real-life challenges makes for an entertaining evening of television.

Calif Chong, the director of 'High Wire', shares her inspiring journey from a working-class background in Hong Kong to making her mark in the film industry. Influenced by the comedic genius of Stephen Chow, she aspired to bring laughter to audiences just like him. Her film's premiere at the BFI London Film Festival highlights her unique perspective on immigration, blending humor with heartfelt storytelling. This matters because it showcases the power of cinema to bridge cultural gaps and inspire future generations of filmmakers.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is expanding its focus on television by increasing its Primetime section by 40% for 2026. This exciting development was announced during MIPCOM, a major TV market event in Cannes, highlighting TIFF's commitment to embracing the evolving landscape of media. This move not only reflects the growing importance of television in the entertainment industry but also positions TIFF as a key player in showcasing diverse storytelling across both film and TV.

The new six-part adaptation of Mikael Niemi's novel, 'To Cook a Bear,' has sparked mixed reactions, particularly due to its peculiar blend of historical crime drama and humor. Set in a remote 19th-century village, the series attempts to tackle a murder investigation that many critics find laughable rather than gripping. This odd juxtaposition has led to discussions on social media, especially around a viral debate about survival in the wilderness. While the show aims to explore gender dynamics through its narrative, its execution has left viewers questioning its overall effectiveness.

Richard Gadd's new drama series 'Half Man' is making waves at MIPCOM, securing distribution deals with Stan in Australia and Crave in Canada. This is significant as it highlights the growing international interest in innovative storytelling and the potential for Gadd's work to reach wider audiences. The success at MIPCOM not only boosts Gadd's profile but also showcases the strength of the BBC and HBO collaboration.

Amy Duggar King is embarking on an exciting new journey as she shares her story, marking a significant moment 17 years after her debut on '19 Kids and Counting.' This release not only highlights her personal growth but also offers fans a deeper insight into the dynamics of the Duggar family, making it a noteworthy event for followers of the reality TV series.