Comedian Iliza Shlesinger Unplugged: ‘I’m Not Just Some Road Dog Who’s There to Tell Some Dick Jokes’

Variety has received an impressive 107 nominations for the Los Angeles Press Club's 18th National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, highlighting the exceptional work of its reporters, photographers, and designers. Notably, Daniel D'Addario and Chris Willman are in the running for print journalist of the year, while Ethan Shanfeld is nominated for online journalist of the year. This recognition not only showcases the talent within Variety but also underscores the importance of quality journalism in the arts and entertainment sector.

Ichiyama Shozo, the programming director of the Tokyo International Film Festival, has been a pivotal figure in the film industry since the 1990s. He has successfully navigated the transition from traditional 35mm film to digital formats while staying true to his core belief that the essence of cinematic expression remains unchanged. His insights highlight the importance of adapting to technological advancements without losing the artistic integrity of filmmaking, making his perspective particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape.

This week, Paramount Skydance is set to lay off around 1,000 employees, primarily in the U.S., as part of a restructuring effort following its recent merger. This significant job cut highlights the challenges faced by the entertainment industry in adapting to changing market conditions. With more layoffs anticipated in the future, this news raises concerns about job security and the overall health of the sector.

In this episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin discusses how 'Chainsaw Man' has taken the lead at the box office, surpassing 'Deliver Me From Nowhere'. This is significant as it highlights the growing popularity of anime adaptations in mainstream cinema. Additionally, Nick Vivarelli shares insights from Lucca, Italy, where a fan event is making waves, even outshining San Diego Comic-Con. This showcases the vibrant culture of cosplay and fan engagement in Europe, making it a noteworthy moment for the entertainment industry.

The 14th Annual Hamilton Behind the Camera Awards, in partnership with Variety, has announced its honorees and presenters for this year's ceremony, set to take place on November 5 in Los Angeles. This event celebrates the unsung heroes of filmmaking, recognizing the vital contributions of behind-the-scenes artisans who help bring cinematic stories to life. It's a significant occasion that highlights the importance of these talented individuals in the film industry.

Prunella Scales, beloved for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the iconic British sitcom Fawlty Towers, has passed away at the age of 93. Her portrayal of the bossy hotel manager left a lasting impact on audiences and contributed significantly to the show's enduring legacy. Scales' talent and charm made her a cherished figure in television history, and her death marks the end of an era for fans of classic comedy.

A thrilling new movie titled 'Frequency of Fear' is set to captivate audiences, inspired by a covert Israeli operation that targeted Hezbollah in September 2024. This operation, which involved the simultaneous explosion of thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies used by the militant group, showcases the high-stakes world of espionage. With stars from the acclaimed series 'Fauda' and the involvement of Daniella Pick Tarantino, this film promises to deliver both action and intrigue. Bleiberg Entertainment is launching sales at the AFM, making it a highly anticipated addition to the spy thriller genre.

In the finale of Hulu's 'Chad Powers', showrunner Michael Waldron discusses the pivotal moments leading up to the much-anticipated game for the Southern Georgia Catfish. The episode reveals significant character developments and sets the stage for potential reforms, particularly focusing on Russ's journey. This finale not only wraps up the season but also leaves fans excited about the possibilities for a second season, making it a crucial moment for the show's future.

Great news for fans of Apple’s hit series 'Bad Monkey'! Natalie Martinez and Charlotte Lawrence are both returning as series regulars for Season 2. Martinez will reprise her role as Rosa, while Lawrence, who made a memorable appearance in Season 1, will also be back. This is exciting because it means viewers can look forward to more of the characters they love, enhancing the show's appeal and continuity.

French producer Jean-Luc Azoulay is making waves by expanding his successful production company, JLA Groupe, into North America. This move is significant as JLA Groupe is already a leading independent producer in France, known for its top-rated TV content. With David Gregg, a former Bell-Phillip TV executive, at the helm of the new Los Angeles office, this expansion could open up exciting opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the U.S. entertainment market.

Blumhouse Games has made a significant move by appointing Amanda Kruse as the new head of business development. This decision is crucial as Kruse will focus on building partnerships in the interactive entertainment sector, which aligns with Blumhouse's goal of delivering unique indie horror experiences to a global audience. Her expertise is expected to enhance the company's growth and innovation in the gaming industry.