Eran Riklis on Tallinn TV Beats-Bound ‘The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher’ and the Challenge of Raising Financing When the Israeli Film Industry Faces Boycott (EXCLUSIVE)

A group of about 30 employees from Paramount Skydance has expressed strong discontent with the studio's leadership for their stance on the Israeli film boycott. In a letter addressed to CEO David Ellison, they accused the company of aligning itself with what they describe as genocide in Gaza. This situation highlights the growing tension within the entertainment industry regarding political issues and the impact of corporate decisions on employee morale and public perception.

Tallinn TV Beats has announced an exciting lineup for its Co-Financing Market at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, featuring intriguing titles like 'The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher' by Eran Riklis and 'Helsinki 1939' from A.J. Annila. This event, taking place on November 17-18, showcases a blend of true stories and creative storytelling, highlighting the festival's commitment to innovative cinema. It's a significant opportunity for filmmakers to connect and collaborate, making it a noteworthy moment in the film industry.

Van Jones, a CNN political analyst, recently apologized for a comment he made about children in Gaza during his appearance on 'Real Time With Bill Maher.' He acknowledged that his words were insensitive and hurtful, expressing his desire for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict. This matters because it highlights the importance of sensitivity in discussions about war and its impact on vulnerable populations, especially children.

Batool Abu Akleen, a 20-year-old Palestinian poet, shares her poignant experiences living in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict. Her reflections on dreams of studying at Oxford and the tragic loss of friends highlight the profound impact of war on her life and creativity. Batool's poetry serves as a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit, making her voice an important part of the narrative surrounding the struggles faced by those in Gaza.

Dwayne Johnson's latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' has faced a disappointing box office debut, earning only $6 million, marking the worst opening of his career. This underwhelming performance is particularly significant for A24, the production company that invested $50 million into the film. The lackluster reception raises questions about audience interest in R-rated sports dramas and could impact future projects for both Johnson and A24.

The Tribeca Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary by increasing the AT&T Untold Stories program's top production prize from $1 million to $1.2 million. This significant boost not only highlights the festival's commitment to supporting emerging filmmakers but also reinforces its status as the largest unrestricted film production award globally. This increase in funding is a game-changer for many aspiring filmmakers, providing them with the resources and empowerment they need to bring their stories to life.

Levi's has launched a vibrant collection in collaboration with Disney and Pixar to celebrate the 30th anniversary of 'Toy Story.' This limited-edition capsule features Western-inspired jackets, cow-print rodeo shirts, and embroidered vests, blending nostalgic elements with Levi's renowned craftsmanship. This collaboration not only pays homage to a beloved film but also showcases how fashion can evoke memories and connect generations, making it a must-have for fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Exciting news for fans of Polly Pocket! Reese Witherspoon's production company, Hello Sunshine, is teaming up with Mattel and Amazon MGM Studios to bring a live-action movie to life, featuring Lily Collins. With talented screenwriters Jordan Weiss and Dan Brier on board, this project is gaining momentum and promises to capture the charm of the beloved micro-doll toys. This collaboration not only highlights the growing trend of adapting nostalgic toys into films but also showcases the star power of Collins and Witherspoon, making it a project to watch.

Cyndi Lauper is keeping the music alive with her newly announced Las Vegas residency, despite wrapping up her farewell tour. This exciting news means fans will still get to experience her iconic performances live, as she takes the stage at the Colosseum next year. It's a great opportunity for both longtime fans and new audiences to enjoy her unforgettable hits in a vibrant setting, proving that while she may have said goodbye to touring, her passion for live music continues.

The new documentary 'The Perfect Neighbor' sheds light on the tragic story of Ajike 'AJ' Owens, a black woman who was shot by her white neighbor in Florida. Directed by Geeta Gandbhir, the film is primarily composed of police body-cam footage, providing a raw and emotional perspective on the events surrounding this heartbreaking incident. Gandbhir's personal connection to the case adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the importance of sharing AJ's story to raise awareness about racial violence and its impact on communities. This film not only honors AJ's memory but also sparks crucial conversations about justice and accountability.