Tax incentives for film and television productions have not been enough to counter a still-sluggish environment for filming in the greater Los Angeles region, according to a new report.
For the three-month period that ended June 30, there were a total of 4,711 shoot days in the greater L.A. area, a nearly 13% decline from the same time last year, according to second-quarter data from FilmLA, a nonprofit that tracks local filming.
Compared to the five-year average, that second-quarter figure is a drop of about 36%.
Feature film shoots were down 20% in the second quarter compared to last year, while TV production decreased by 30%.
Incentivized productions are, however, making up a growing number of shoot days. For instance, 33% of the 443 total shoot days for feature films in the second quarter came from productions that received a tax credit. For the TV category, roughly 28% of the 1,607 shoot days last quarter were for projects that benefited from the tax incentive, particularly for dramas and comedies.
“While there is still much work to do, FilmLA’s quarterly report is proof that incentives are working: local incentivized productions are on the rise,” said L.A. Mayor Karen Bass in a statement.
Shoot days for TV dramas were down 6.4% to 732 days this past quarter, with just over 38% of those days coming from incentivized projects. TV comedy production saw a 43% decline to 57 days, with 21 of them coming from projects that received a tax credit. FilmLA noted that many local comedy productions are based on stage and not accounted for in the latest research.
“Because scripted television production supports more industry jobs than any other production category, helping to attract these types of productions is an important step towards bringing filming back to the region, restoring jobs and strengthening our local production economy,” said FilmLA Chief Executive Denise Gutches in a statement.
But any boost from the incentives was offset by serious declines for productions that are not eligible for the state’s film and TV tax credit program.
Shoot days for reality TV, for instance, were down 40% to 676 days compared to the second quarter of 2025. While large-scale competition shows are eligible for the state’s tax credit, such as Jimmy Kimmel’s “Schooled!” science experiment series for kids, other kinds of popular reality TV shows cannot apply for production incentives.
Filming for commercials in the second quarter was down nearly 22% from last year to 543 days. That total marked a 46% decline compared to the five-year average.
In a bright spot, FilmLA’s “other” category, which captures shoot days for student productions, still photography, documentaries and music videos, climbed 10% in the second quarter to 2,118 days.
That boost came largely from online content shoots, which rose by 47%. Filming for short films and documentaries were also higher in the second quarter, though those two segments had much smaller numbers of shoot days, FilmLA said.
A detective series set in the 1940s is returning for a second series and viewers will be hooked
14:36, 26 Jul 2026Updated 14:38, 26 Jul 2026
Mark Gatiss created and stars in Bookish(Image: UKTV / Nicola Young)
The star of a detective drama perfect for Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie fans has teased what viewers can expect from the new series.
Created by and starring Mark Gatiss, Bookish follows an unconventional book shop owner who helps police solve crimes in 1946.
It started last year, with viewers charmed by the “excellent” and “cosy” U&alibi drama, and is set to return for a second series next month.
Mark, who plays main character Gabriel Book, has shared a few details with Radio Times ahead of the show’s second run, hinting at some “dangers” ahead.
Gabriel is gay and married to his best friend Trottie, who is played by Bridgerton star Polly Walker, and the relationship has worked out.
But Mark has now hinted that there will be some bumps in the road when Bookish returns to screens in August.
“Their arrangement suits them both, but it’s not without its dangers,” he said. “We’ll see a bit of that, and we do see a bit more of it fraying at the edges.”
The star also teased that the new series will be “more intriguing emotionally”, adding: “Some of the secrets are unlocked and some questions are answered.”
Fans can expect more mysterious cases, with a synopsis for the upcoming episodes revealing: “In series two, the bibliophile sleuth investigates the world of spiritualism as he helps to solve a baffling case involving medium Harold Sneed (Jason Watkins) and a séance full of secrets.
“Off Savile Row, Inspector Bliss (Elliot Levey) asks Book (Connor Finch) to help in a puzzling crime at a gentleman’s outfitters – the elderly tailor Maxie Kleinmann (Allan Corduner) is keen to confess to murder but the evidence doesn’t quite stack up and points to something much more complex and sinister.”
Book and Jack are also sent to the seemingly charming German village of Würl by the mysterious ‘E’, who is played by Simon Callow, in order to thwart a thieving duchess who is portrayed by Miranda Richardson.
“However, festivities take a deadly turn when Book and Jack uncover secrets of their own in a castle brimming with shady characters,” the synopsis continued.
Alongside them, the Aberdeen drama saw Dawn Steele reprising her role as DCI Cora Macmillan.
The actress is perhaps best known for her role as Lexie Macdonald in Monarch of the Glen, which ran for seven series between 2000 and 2005.
The comedy drama followed young restaurateur Archie MacDonald attempting to restore his childhood home in the Scottish highlands.
Loosely based on Compton Mackenzie’s Highland Novels, Dawn starred alongside Alastair Mackenzie, Richard Briers and Susan Hampshire, and Alastair has now joined her in Granite Harbour.
The actor is playing Richard Loughty in the crime drama, an affable and highly-regarded landowner who appears to be remarkably generous to those around him, including the local traveller community residing on his property.
But cracks soon begin to form as his apparent charm falls aside and the truth emerges.
Alastair teased, regarding his new role: “Cracks begin to appear in this charming veneer of his when sketchy things start happening on his estate and, without giving to much away, things go from bad to worse for him. Maybe there’s more to him than meets the eye.”
Monarch of the Glen fans were thrilled to see the duo reunite, with one writing: “How cool is it to see Alastair Mackenzie and Dawn Steele reunited in #GraniteHarbour . Absolutely love that #MonarchoftheGlen.”
Another said: “Watching the first episode of the new series #GraniteHarbour and immediately spot the Monarch of the Glen reunion between Alastair MacKenzie and Dawn Steele.”
Ahead of the new season of Granite Harbour, Shetland actress Dawn said: “Cora faces a personal health scare, and I loved having the chance to show a more vulnerable side to her. At the same time, she’s under immense pressure to solve the case while also dealing with the SPIS investigation into Malik’s dismissal from last series.”
The new series follows the Major Investigations Team focused on a complicated murder investigation after bodies are found, as they discover long-buried secrets that could divide communities.
Granite Harbour is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Bergerac is back for a “modern reimagining” of the iconic 1980s detective show.
Hayley Anderson Screen Time TV Reporter
22:30, 24 Jul 2026
This Morning: Bergerac cast discuss reboot
Bergerac has returned more than 30 years on with fans questioning what happened to its original cast.
BBC has given hit detective series Bergerac a fresh new look with troubled DCI Jim Bergerac (played by Damien Molony) back and ready to investigate head-scratching crimes months after the death of his wife.
The first episode sees Bergerac dive back into the world of policing after a woman from one of Jersey’s wealthiest families is murdered.
But as the reboot drama debuted tonight, Friday, July 24, fans could not help but wonder what happened to the original stars who made Bergerac a hit.
Where is the Bergerac original cast now?
Jim Bergerac – John Nettles
Actor John Nettles led the way as heartthrob detective Jim Bergerac for nine seasons in the 1980s series, launching the now 82-year-old’s career.
When the show came to an end, he joined the Royal Shakespeare Company before taking on his next iconic role in 1997 as DCI Thomas Barnaby in ITV’s Midsomer Murders.
He remained in the detective drama until 2011 and later went on to have a recurring role as Ray Penvenen in BBC period drama Poldark.
Nettles has since retired from acting and, according to The i Paper, he turned down a cameo role in this latest Bergerac reboot stating “I’m too old and I’d just get in the way.”
Susan Young – Louise Jameson
Taking on the role of Jim Bergerac’s estate agent girlfriend Susan Young is actress Louise Jameson.
She previously played Doctor Who companion Leela in the late 1970s and regularly appeared in Bergerac between 1985 and 1990.
Jameson starred as Rosa di Marco in EastEnders from 1998 to 2000 but since 2022, she has been best associated with Mary Goskirk in Emmerdale.
Charlotte – Annette Badland
Charlotte was the secretary in the Bureau des Etrangers in the first three seasons of Bergerac.
She is played by actress Annette Badland who has been in shows such as Cutting It, Coronation Street and EastEnders as Babe Smith.
Fans will also recognise her as Mae the landlady in Ted Lasso and Nanny Bingo in Big Boys.
Deborah Bergerac – Deborah Grant
Actress Deborah Grant portrayed Deborah Bergerac, Jim Bergerac’s ex-wife.
She played receptionist Carol Johnson in ITV medical drama Peak Practice, Leonora in BBC sitcom Bread and the mum of Tim and Lucy in the Lee Mack comedy Not Going Out.
Marianne Bellshade – Celia Imrie
Actress Celia Imrie starred in the first two seasons of Bergerac as Jim’s girlfriend Marianne Bellshade.
The 74-year-old actress has starred in an abundance of iconic films throughout her career, including Calendar Girls, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and the Bridget Jones franchise.
She is also one of the mains stars of Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club and appeared in other shows like Dinner Ladies, Kingdom and Cranford. She proved a hit in the first UK edition of BBC gameshow Celebrity Traitors.
Charlie Hungerford – Terence Alexander
Charlie Hungerford, Bergerac’s former father-in-law and dad of Deborah Bergerac, was played by actor Terence Alexander.
He starred as Dr Ian McLaren in Bless This House, Sir Greville Macdonald in The New Statesman and featured in films like The Seven Dials Murder and The Day of the Jackal.
Alexander made his last TV appearance in 1999 in Casualty before retiring due to poor health.
He died 10 years later in 2009 at the age of 86.
Barney Crozier – Sean Arnold
Officer in charge of the Bureau des Etrangers Barney Crozier was portrayed by actor Sean Arnold.
He starred as Mr Llewelyn in children’s show Grange Hill, Harry Fisher in medical drama Doctors and the chief constable in the BBC series Merseybeat.
Arnold passed away at the age of 79 in 2020.
Bergerac is available to watch on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
One standard-setting British period drama can’t be beat — depending on who you ask
Downton Abbey is available to watch on ITVX. (Image: ITV)
It’s never been a better time to be a period drama fan. Between a whole spate of Jane Austen adaptations (a new Sense and Sensibility film and Netflix’s upcoming Pride and Prejudice show), The Other Bennet Sister delighting audiences with its fresh take, to the upcoming second series of the Outlander prequel, it’s an embarrassment of riches.
But for some period drama fans, it’s worth looking back at the masterpiece dramas that led the way. For many, Upstairs, Downstairs is the one to beat. This generational saga about an upper class family and their servants will ring a bell, but it predates Downton Abbey by half a century.
The shows share a similar premise — an upper class family, their domestic staff, and storylines featuring both — and even same overarching time period, so if you haven’t heard of Upstairs, Downstairs, you can know what to reasonably expect.
Viewers are passionate about the one they prefer. Ever since Julian Fellowes’ crown jewel debuted in 2010 and concluded 15 years later, discussions and debates abound over the years.
Some have gone so far as to brand Downton a “rip off”. As one viewer proclaimed on Reddit: “I like Downton Abbey better, but Upstairs, Downstairs is the better show. Julian Fellowes blatantly copied a few things from UD [Upstairs/Downstairs].”
To which another responded: “I’m watching upstairs downstairs right now and I’ve already been like ‘wait that was in DA’. What stood out immediately is the daughter being politically active but then the gay footman who has a relationship with the baron. Alfred and Thomas have very similar timelines right now. Only on episode 6 but seeing SO many similarities”
A third said: “Julian Fellowes ripped off 65% of the UD characters’ names and plots for Downton.”
Yet another period drama enthusiast defended both: “They are very different shows from very different eras (70s vs 2010s). I loved Upstairs/Downstairs when it aired. I love DA. I don’t think a show from 40 years ago should be compared to a modern one.”
Interestingly, BBC rebooted Upstairs, Downstairs in 2010, the same year as Downton Abbey. It received mixed reviews and only lasted two series.
The Guardian was equivocal in its review: “Downton Abbey v Upstairs Downstairs – who won? Downton Abbey, of course.
“Here’s the problem. Downton Abbey completely changed the way we watch period drama. Fellowes brought all the tight, witty scripting of a Hollywood adaptation to an original story, topped off with a gigantic, knowingly camp wink that delighted jaded viewers.”
The reviewer, however, didn’t mention where Downton Abbey stood against the original 1970s masterpiece.
Upstairs, Downstairs (1970-1975) is available to watch on ITVX. The 2010 reboot is playing on U, a free streaming platform.
A wartime science fiction thriller is available on BBC iPlayer and viewers are hooked
The Sentinels is set during the war
A World War I drama hailed as “brilliant” by viewers is available to stream now.
The Sentinels, an eight-part French wartime sci-fi series from STUDIOCANAL, has been snapped up by the BBC and can currently be viewed on BBC iPlayer.
Starring Louis Peres, the series was drawn from the graphic novels Les Sentinelles by Xavier Dorison and Enrique Breccia and is billed as an “adrenaline-drenched steampunk-style thriller”.
It follows a soldier, played by Louis, who who has been injected with a super serum and joins an elite unit on a mission to end the fighting.
“At the outbreak of World War I, Gabriel Ferraud – a gravely wounded soldier – is recruited into a top-secret French military programme designed to create the ultimate weapon: enhanced humans,” said a synopsis.
“After being injected with a mysterious serum, Gabriel gains extraordinary strength, speed, and resilience. He joins an elite unit known as the Sentinels – augmented soldiers forged for the front lines.”
However, as the conflict goes on, Gabriel discovers “a terrifying truth”.
“The Sentinels is a fully immersive war drama, drenched in adrenaline,” said Nick Lee, head of BBC programme acquisition. “Prepare for something totally different and unforgivingly entertaining.”
The series has won over viewers, with one posting on IMDb.com: “If you like superheroes (antiheroes), war movies and aren’t afraid of some action with a touch of grim dark sci-fi in a first world setting… then you’ll love this!”
Another wrote on review site Rotten Tomatoes: “This is absolutely brilliant if you’re into war dramas, thrillers and superheroes. The characters are well developed, both protagonists and antagonists – there’s three main storylines which are all equally compelling, and the action set pieces are entertaining bringing all the gritty brutality of fighting on the Western Front combined with the dirty combat. All in all, something different to the usual.”
“I thought this show absolutely ruled and hope to see more seasons,” another viewer commented on Reddit.
“This was a really great watch,” agreed somebody else. “Loved the costume design, and the action wasn’t cringy and badly done like a lot of shows.”
Laird was originally predicted to be a follow-up to Yellowstone set in the Scottish Highlands.
Hayley Anderson Screen Time TV Reporter
19:00, 22 Jul 2026
Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan. (Image: GETTY)
Laird is officially on the way, jam-packed with “family feuds, buried secrets and star-crossed romances”.
Paramount Plus has given the green light for Scottish Highlands drama Laird, described as an “epic family saga in which a proud Scot defies a shadowy American billionaire hellbent on buying up the glens”.
It has also been confirmed that this Laird of Castle Drummoch, who is “determined to protect his ancestral lands from oligarchical land grabbing” will be played by none other than Oscar-winning star Kenneth Branagh.
He is famed for blockbuster films like Belfast, Dunkirk, Agatha Christie’s Hercules Poirot and Oppenheimer.
Earlier this month, there were rumours flying that Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan was behind Laird with yet another prequel, following in the footsteps of his hugely successful series 1883 and 1923.
No new Yellowstone prequel series from Sheridan has been announced apart from 1944 which was previously confirmed by Paramount Plus.
So Laird appears to be an entirely separate project from the Yellowstone universe with its creators behind three other big shows.
Laird will be brought to life by Paramount Plus’ Mobland creator Jez Butterworth, Nine Perfect Strangers’ John-Henry Butterworth and The 100’s Georgia Lee.
Branagh is also going to be working behind the cameras as an executive producer and Darkest Hour filmmaker Joe Wright will be directing the pilot.
Describing the upcoming Scottish drama, head of originals for Paramount Plus Jane Wiseman said: “At its heart, Laird is about one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power.
“There’s something universally resonant about watching someone fight to protect what matters most, and with Kenneth Branagh leading the series, and an equally remarkable creative team, we can’t wait for audiences to root for the Laird of Castle Drummoch.”
President at Paramount Television Studios Matt Thunell added: “Jez, John-Henry, and Georgia have imagined a gripping drama that explores how far one family will go to protect their land and legacy.
“With Kenneth Branagh starring and Joe Wright directing, this is a singular creative team, and we are thrilled to once again partner with 101 Studios to bring this series to Paramount+.”
The Northern Ireland born and New Zealand actor, best known for playing Dr Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise, died on Monday, just months after he was deemed “cancer-free” following a battle with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.
Sam was best known for his legendary Jurassic Park role but the actor also once appeared in a ‘masterpiece’ 2002 drama series alongside Keira Knightley.
Doctor Zhivago was released in 2002. It is based on the 1957 novel of the same title by Boris Pasternak, which was also turned into a film in 1965.
The 2002 series is available to watch on ITV and ITVX, who have described it as: “Keira Knightley stars in this gripping drama set in the tumultuous era of WW1 and the Russian Revolution. Dr Zhivago finds himself tormented by his his love for two women.”
Meanwhile, a synopsis adds: “Having witnessed his father’s suicide, Yury is sent to live in Moscow with his uncle, aunt and cousin. Whilst there, he becomes captivated by a stunning young girl called Lara.”
The character of Yuri Zhivago is played by Hans Matheson, Keira plays Lara Guishar Antipova and Sam plays Victor Komarovsky. Other cast members include Kris Marshall as Pasha Antipov/Strelnikov, Celia Imrie as Anna Gromeko and Hugh Bonneville as Andrey Zhivago – to name just a few.
The series, directed by Giacomo Campiotti, has an impressive 78% Rotten Tomatoes score with many viewers calling it a ‘masterpiece’. One person said: “A masterpiece by Giacomo Campiotti”, adding: “It deserves an Oscar.”
Another fan put: “Wow – this was fantastic! It really all came together with the last installment and truly broke my heart. I don’t see how anyone could not fall madly in love with Hans Matheson as Yury, and Kiera Knightley brought such maturity and worldliness to such a difficult role (amazing at such a young age).
“Both actors should be commended. And as for Sam Neill! He was amazing. The screen practically frosted up when he appeared!”
A different viewer commented: “I haven’t seen the 1st version of Dr Zhivago or read the book but this film is absolutely amazing. I suppose i can’t really judge because of not really knowing the story before this, but as far as I can tell Its a wonderful love story although it is shocking in bits of it.”
Meanwhile, another person added: “I have never seen the original Doctor Zhivago film, so I can’t take any prejudged bias. This mini-series is possibly the best UK mini-series I have ever seen and is a sign that perhaps the UK networks are serious about creating some top quality drama television that HBO have been producing for ages!
“The acting is top quality, however, Sam Neill on top form steals every scene he’s in, and that’s saying something with the quality around him on screen.”
Doctor Zhivago is available to watch on ITV and ITVX
The ‘outstanding’ historical drama, adapted from a best-selling book series, has been dubbed ‘highly addictive’ by fans who are calling it ‘a treat to watch’ — streaming free on Channel 4
The ‘addictive’ series has been hailed as ‘tremendously entertaining’(Image: BBC/Company Pictures & ALL3MEDIA/Ed Miller)
The series, originally developed for the BBC, delves into Britain’s history and is based on real events that took place in the 1400s in the tumultuous battle for the throne of England. With the War of the Roses as the backdrop of the historical drama, the series takes a closer look at real-life incidents and the drama surrounding court politics at the time.
The period drama is based on author Philippa Gregory’s Cousins’ War book series and has been adapted from three best-selling novels — The White Queen, The Red Queen, and The Kingmaker’s Daughter.
The costume drama is an amalgamation of stories, characters, and instances from all three books and follows the story of three women — Yorkist Elizabeth Woodville, wife of King Edward IV and played by Rebecca Ferguson; Lancastrian Margaret Beaufort, mother of the Tudor King Henry VII of England and portrayed by Amanda Hale; and Yorkist Anne Neville, wife of the Duke of Gloucester, King Richard III, portrayed by Faye Marsay.
Elizabeth Woodville is the protagonist of the 2009 novel The White Queen, while Margaret Beaufort and Anne Neville are the focus of The Red Queen (2010) and The Kingmaker’s Daughter (2012) respectively. These three women appear in the three novels which constitute the screenplay of this underrated television drama which first hit UK airwaves in June 2013.
The series has been on the receiving end of glowing reviews from both critics and audiences.
One critic says of the show: “As a love story set in an impossibly chivalrous past, this was deliciously enjoyable. The conflict between the houses of Lancaster and York ceased to matter — the crucial conflict was between Innocence and Experience.”
While another reviewer writes: “Part soap opera, part war film, and part melodrama, this series is an intoxicating jaunt through a snippet of British history fraught with contentious loyalties and lethal power struggles.”
A third critic said: “It’s a great tale and beautifully told with beautiful actors…Don’t miss it.”
One viewer posted to IMDB: “Fantastic!! The BBC, like most of their period piece dramas, got this series right. It is highly addictive and very watchable. The White Queen has everything an avid audience for this type of show craves; It is romantic; It is violent; It is full of vengefulness, cruelty and karma. I thoroughly enjoyed it and wanted more.”
While another fan of the show added: “Excellent period drama! BBC does it again! I came across this title by accident and I ended up watching the first four episodes! I love the love story, the drama, the betrayal. Truly a treat to watch! I really enjoyed it, I found the actors to be truly convincing, the decor lovely and the storyline engaging!”
Another IMDB user review reads: “I’ve read the 3 books, The White Queen, The Red Queen and The Kingmaker’s Daughter, and this series is one of the most faithful adaptations I have ever watched.
“The portrayal of the Tudor and Lancastrian England, the life and politics of the feudal society, how Kings and Queens and Great Royal Houses were made or unmade with in fire and blood, and the brilliance and fortunes of Edward’s court, with some artistic license from Philippa Gregory, make for a very compelling watch.”
While one audience review of the show on Rotten Tomatoes states: “I absolutely loved this mini-series. Gorgeous costumes, realistic scenery, intrigue, treachery, lies, unexpected twists and a torrid love story. Seriously, what more could you ask for?”
The White Queen is available to stream for free on Channel 4.
Hello! I’m Mark Olsen. Welcome to another edition of your regular field guide to a world of Only Good Movies.
I have been writing this newsletter, most weeks, for more than 10 years now. I wouldn’t even want to do the math on how many of them that would be, or just how many movies I have written about. That count is about to come to a close as this is the last one.
Don’t worry: I will still be covering the world-class scene of moviegoing in Los Angeles as well as writing about a broad swath of films and filmmakers, just finding new ways to go about it.
When this newsletter began, it was a catch-all for movie coverage and related events from The Times and eventually settled into a curated survey of the best new releases each week. We helped figure out what you should go see. As theaters reopened following the closures forced by the pandemic, the repertory scene in Los Angeles exploded, with new audiences turning out for old movies in astonishing numbers.
We followed their lead, flipping the focus of the newsletter to the rep scene while still keeping an eye on new releases. Venues around the city had a newly revived energy to match audiences’ enthusiasm. The Academy Museum opened with two gold-standard theaters, while the American Cinematheque expanded the number of screens it programs. (Just recently, it added the historic Village Theater in Westwood.) The Vista began bringing first-run films in 35mm and 70mm, along with classic movies. Vidiots opened in Eagle Rock, helping to redraw the map of L.A.’s movie-loving community.
The David Geffen Theater at the Academy Museum seats a thousand and is often fully attended.
(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
The city has also seen the rise of itinerant pop-up series such as Mezzanine, Acropolis Cinema and Hollywood Entertainment pulling off must-see events. Smaller venues such as Now Instant Image Hall, 2220 Arts + Archives, Eastwood Performing Arts Center, Brain Dead Studios and the Philosophical Research Society have made a home to all kinds of movies. The Laemmle and Landmark chains have continue to play traditional arthouse releases and international films, while the Frida and Gardena theaters bring great movies to the South Bay.
Entities such as Revival Hub and MovieTown do a vital job of collating extensive listings info. (We will also continue to give monthly overviews of the best movies to see.) This is simply an incredible time for going to the movies in Los Angeles, arguably the best ever.
My main takeaway from the experience of working on this newsletter is confirmation of my belief in the movies themselves and the community of people around them. I was recently at a sold-out screening of Akira Kurosawa’s “Ran” and the idea of sitting with nearly a thousand other people watching a Japanese movie from the 1980s, each connecting to the events on screen in their own way, was deeply inspiring.
Among my favorite recent developments is how many venues now name the show’s projectionists as part of a screening’s introduction, which is always met with an enthusiastic round of applause. It is a reminder that what this is really about is people, dedicated to something we love.
And since this isn’t really a goodbye, it seems fitting to turn to the movies once again, as another week demonstrates why the scene here in Los Angeles is so truly special.
A tribute to Sam Neill
Sam Neill and Nicole Kidman on the set of 1989’s “Dead Calm.”
(Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images)
Anyone looking for an example of just how intimate the screening scene in Los Angeles can be should make their way to the New Beverly Cinema on July 24. The theater already had a three-night double-bill of Rob Reiner’s “Misery” and Phillip Noyce’s 1989 thriller “Dead Calm” booked when news broke last weekend that actor Sam Neill had died at age 78.
The New Bev quickly announced that it would make one of those screenings into a tribute to Neill, who co-stars in “Dead Calm.” Director Noyce, along with co-star Billy Zane and filmmaker Roger Donaldson (who worked with Neill on 1977’s “Sleeping Dogs”) will all be there to celebrate their friend and colleague.
“Dead Calm” is a tight thriller set within the confines of a small sailing boat. Reviewing the movie when it was first released in 1989, Sheila Benson wrote, “Neill is probably one of the screen’s most underrated actors … ‘Dead Calm’ was probably far and away his nastiest assignment physically, yet his presence, sexuality and all, is absolutely vital to the balance of the story.”
Remembering the actor as part of a rundown of his greatest performances, Glen Whipp described Neill in “Dead Calm” as “part Cary Grant, part MacGyver.”
Two by Ross McElwee
Documentary filmmaker Ross McElwee in his 1986 movie “Sherman’s March.”
(Music Box Films)
Documentary filmmaker Ross McElwee helped to reinvent the form with his 1986 film “Sherman’s March,” which comes with the explanatory subtitle of “A Meditation on the Possibility of Romantic Love in the South During an Era of Nuclear Weapons Proliferation.”
Ostensibly a film about Union General William Tecumsah Sherman’s campaign of destruction during the Civil War, the movie actually ends up being about McElwee revisiting old girlfriends and forging a few new ones along the way, reflecting on his own campaign of romantic misadventure. As charming as it is revelatory, the movie is being rereleased in a new 4K restoration.
McElwee’s latest film, “Remake,” reflects on the death of his son Adrian and whether the director himself had a detrimental effect on the boy’s life. Reviewing “Remake,” Tim Grierson calls it “especially revealing — both in terms of the glimpses we get of this father-son relationship and of unsolved mysteries that linger just outside the frame.”
A weekend with Robert Rodriguez
Quentin Tarantino, George Clooney and Salma Hayek in the horror movie “From Dusk Till Dawn.”
(Academy Museum)
The Academy Museum will present “A Weekend with Robert Rodriguez” to celebrate the 30th anniversary of “From Dusk Till Dawn” and the 25th anniversary of “Spy Kids.” It speaks to Rodriguez’s undersung range as a filmmaker that one movie is a bawdy, gory comedy about a criminals on the run who encounter an ancient den of vampires, while the other is a family-friendly tale of two siblings who discover their parents are secret agents and must rescue them from a supervillain.
Rodriguez will not only be present to talk about both movies, he will be performing music each day with a different band.
Reviewing “From Dusk Till Dawn,” which was scripted by Quentin Tarantino, Jack Matthews said it was “a film nerd’s fever dream, a Frankenstein’s monster of used movie parts, deliberately mismatched styles, and deliriously implausible characters.”
Elaine May’s secret success
Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange in the movie “Tootsie.”
(Everett Collection / Columbia Pictures)
One of the most exciting things about the ongoing revival of L.A.’s repertory scene is the upheaval of the notion of the “canon.” What are the most lauded movies of all time and who gets to do the lauding? Case in point is the now widely accepted coronation of Elaine May as a towering creative figure, no longer relegated to being merely a fringe character unfairly saddled with the commercial failure of “Ishtar.”
May is credited as director on only four feature films, though she’s an uncredited writer on a number of other projects, perhaps most notably 1982’s comedy “Tootsie,” starring Dustin Hoffman as a struggling New York City actor who finds success when he lands a part by secretly posing as a woman. Directed by Sydney Pollack, who also makes a tremendous turn as Hoffman’s agent, the movie will be playing at Vidiots on Saturday.
Finding new moves
Wiley Wiggins and Patrick Riester in the movie “Computer Chess.”
(Kino Lorber)
The very first thing I ever wrote under the banner of Indie Focus was about how independent filmmakers such as Andrew Bujalski and Alex Ross Perry were working on 35mm at a time when mainstream Hollywood was very much forcing the idea of shooting on digital. So it only seems appropriate that this final edition of the newsletter should include something on Bujalksi, who has long been one of my favorite contemporary American filmmakers.
“Computer Chess,” Bujalski’s oddball experiment in using antiquated video equipment to tell a heady, offbeat story about a weekend chess tournament in the early ’80s, will screen in a 35mm print at Brain Dead Studios on July 24, presented by Mezzanine. Bujalski will be present, along with Blair Barnes, a filmmaker who will be showing the L.A. premiere of his short “sitrep,” also shot on an analog-era tube camera.
New this week
Matt Damon and Zendaya in the movie “The Odyssey.”
(Melinda Sue Gordon / Universal Pictures)
Sure to be one of the biggest movies of the year, Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of “The Odyssey” opens today. Los Angeles audiences have multiple venues to choose from that are showing the film in Nolan’s preferred Imax 70mm format — these theaters are among only a small number across the world that are doing this. Presenting a movie in Imax 70mm isn’t the easiest endeavor. Eloise Rollins-Fife has a report on how that’s actually done. Get your epic on.
Reviewing the movie, Amy Nicholson wrote, “Nolan refuses to tremble before the canon. Grabbing mighty scissors, he cuts and rejiggers Homer and a bit of Virgil to transform these classical texts into his type of tale: one fixated on memory, self-identity, destructive genius and the slippage of time. As ever, it’s light on sex, heavy on wine-dark angst.”
Kenneth Turan spoke to Nolan about the movie’s origins, saying, “I’ve been telling this story in all my films for years. It’s a family story, a love story, a revenge story, a war story, a coming-of-age story. It’s a very strong foundational text for me.”
The synopsis reads: “Britain looks almost normal, but the flags are different, the news is careful, and nobody says certain things out loud anymore. But everyone can feel it. Somewhere beneath the surface of ordinary life, something has gone terribly, quietly wrong.
“Out of the shadows emerges a former soldier known only as Berry, who starts building a secret resistance network. He knows one thing above all else: don’t act before you’re ready.”
An unlikely band of individuals, comprising a soldier, student, journalist and radiographer, gradually gathers around him as they conclude they can no longer turn a blind eye.
The synopsis continued: “Ordinary people, with ordinary lives, making an extraordinary and irreversible choice. Against them: a state with unlimited reach, a ruthless minister who’ll do whatever it takes to maintain “order”, and an American intelligence operative called Jessie, who is very, very good at her job.
“Army of Shadows is a tense, propulsive thriller about what resistance actually costs. If your country were occupied, what would you do?”
The broadcaster has confirmed that production has kicked off across Liverpool, Manchester, London and Paris.
Billed as ‘provocative’, Army of Shadows draws from Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1969 film and Joseph Kessel’s landmark novel of the same name.
Penned by Ronan Bennett, Army of Shadows charts how resistance begins to take hold in an occupied Great Britain during the Second World War, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Discussing the upcoming drama, Interim Head of Drama at Channel 4, Gwawr Lloyd, expressed their enthusiasm while applauding the ‘stellar cast’ signed up for the series.
They said: “Ronan Bennett has created a gripping, provocative and action-packed drama that feels both epic in scale and strikingly relevant. Army of Shadows asks powerful questions about freedom, resistance and the choices people make when democracy is under threat.
“With a stellar cast lined up under the direction of Lisa Gunning, this is exactly the kind of thought-provoking and high-stakes drama that Channel 4 looks to bring to our viewers.
“We’re delighted to partner with STUDIOCANAL and Two Cities Television on what promises to be an unmissable event series.”
Channel 4 has confirmed that additional information regarding the show’s broadcast date will be revealed in due course.
Jack White stepped in when Charley Crockett accidentally hired, then fired, a satanic doo-wop duo. Happens to everyone, right?
The outlaw country singer apparently thought the husband-and-wife duo known as Twin Temple were like Black Sabbath when he invited them to open two shows for him this week, a July 14 date in Troutdale, Ore., and another on July 18 in Paso Robles. With songs including “Satan’s a Woman,” “Lucifer, My Love,” “Let’s Have a Satanic Orgy” and “Burn Your Bible,” it’s anyone’s guess how Crockett missed the duo’s shtick.
“Today we were informed that Charley Crockett has decided to remove Twin Temple from his upcoming shows next week due to our Satanic imagery,” the musicians wrote on Instagram last week.
“Unfortunately, that means we will not be able to perform for you next week as planned. We are really disappointed as we were looking forward to getting back out and seeing you, and also what it meant as far as bringing different types of people and music lovers together. We are sorry to everyone who was planning to see us.
“We’re grateful for your support, not only of Twin Temple, but more importantly of artistic freedom. HAIL SATAN! 93/93”
Crockett, who dropped his 16th studio album, “Age of the Ram,” in April, posted his own since-deleted message on social media, writing, “Hail Satan? Not me Jack.”
Twin Temple, composed of married couple Alexandra and Zachary James, weren’t out of work for long. White, the former White Stripes frontman, who happened to be kicking off a world tour in support of his new album, “Frozen Charlotte,” caught wind of the debacle and stepped in.
“Twin Temple, Would you like to open my show in L.A. on September 29th at the Hollywood Palladium? Let me know,” White posted on Friday, adding, “Get in front of me Satan!”
The duo was quick to accept, commenting on White’s invite, “Unholy hell…. Sir Jack, you have no idea what this means to us. Lifelong fans- dead leaves on the dirty ground was one of the first songs I (Alex) ever learned on guitar. We were actually planning on coming to this show. It would be a most infernal pleasure to play the devils music with you.”
On Tuesday, Twin Temple announced their third record, “Doomed Lovers,” produced by Shooter Jennings (who also produced Crockett’s “Age of the Ram” and other recent albums). The album will drop Oct. 9 via their own Pentagrammaton Records. The duo told Rolling Stone on Tuesday that they were sad about the turn of events with Crockett but confirmed that their swanky Satan-loving doo-wop isn’t a sham.
“Satan’s the original outlaw, right? He’s a rebel angel,” Alexandra told the outlet. “He’s the one who questioned authority, fought for himself, refused to bow down or conform, and was like non serviam. That was a metaphor that resonated very strongly with me.”
She added, “It’s really fun to go shopping for a human skull and a Ronettes record in the same day, and we get to do that with our band.”
While Twin Temple has been booking shows and working on the album announcement, Crockett has continued to post about the drama from the road. “Well, now I know how it feels when they try to cancel you on the right AND the left,” he wrote on Facebook on Monday. “The thing is, I never subscribed. America can be a One Eyed Jack, but I’ve seen your other side.”
EXCLUSIVE: The Netflix actress unpacked her new crime drama based on a notorious real-life Irish American gang.
07:06, 13 Jul 2026Updated 07:11, 13 Jul 2026
Ozark star lifts lid on ‘ballsy’ new detective role
Bosch legend Titus Welliver and Ozark star Jessica Frances Dukes have spoken candidly about portraying a detective partnership in a gritty new period drama.
The Westies, a fresh gangster series which arrived on MGM+ (available through Amazon Prime Video) yesterday, features Netflix actress Dukes as Birdie Polk, who is resolute in her mission to shield New York from a sinister criminal underworld.
Meanwhile, Welliver portrays her hesitant police partner Glenn Keenan, whose complex ties with Eamonn Sweeney (J. K. Simmons), head of Irish American gang The Westies, compels him to navigate a precarious balance between opposing forces.
The Westies, co-created by Narcos’ Chris Brancato and Michael Panes, draws from a genuine Irish American gang which operated from Hell’s Kitchen throughout the 1960s until the late 1980s.
Dukes, who portrays Special Agent Maya Miller in Netflix’s Ozark, shared her thoughts on taking on a markedly different kind of FBI agent.
She said: “I’ve been a fan of Chris Brancato and Michael Panes for a while and being able to dive into one of their worlds was something that was a goal of mine, so to be a part of this was really exciting.
“To jump into FBI world again, at first I was like ‘Do I want to do FBI again?’ and then I read it and I was like, ‘Oh, this chick is not Maya Miller’. And so I was so excited to dive into this ballsy woman. It was so much fun – I loved playing her.”
Considering the broader importance of the role, she added: “She’s given this opportunity to bring these guys down and she’s put in this place of power in [the early 1980s].”
She continued: “There is one woman in a sea of men running this show. I feel like Birdie starts the show with the reward and now it’s all about, ‘Is she going to succeed and prove all the naysayers waiting for her failure wrong?’ And I truly believe she’s got the golden ticket with Keenan.”
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Telly fans can get seven days of free access to binge top series like Outlander with a free trial of Amazon Prime’s MGM+ channel.
Welliver, who portrays the titular Harry Bosch in Bosch on Prime Video, commented on the new series: “For me, it’s very personal because I’m a New Yorker and I was in and around that time.
“All characters are different and Glenn Keenan is the polar opposite of Harry Bosch if you look at these two guys.”
Discussing his character further and how he engages with Simmons’ Sweeney and Dukes’ Polk, he observed: “The scenes with J.K. were great because those worlds are very markedly different.
“Sweeney and Keenan have a long history together, whereas the relationship with Polk and Keenan is new, but there’s an interesting similarity.
“So they’re both trying to puppeteer Keenan and he is basically saying, ‘Nobody has strings on me.’
“And that’s what I think is the interesting aspect of that character and he emerges with a sense of independence, but at a serious cost.”
The official synopsis for The Westies from MGM+ states: “The Westies is a gritty and kinetic crime drama centering on New York City’s infamously violent Irish gang of the same name.
“The series is set in the early 1980s when the construction of the Jacob Javits Convention Center on the Westies’ home turf in Hell’s Kitchen promises a financial windfall.
“Despite being outnumbered fifty-to-one by the Five Families of the Italian Mafia, the Westies’ legendary brutality and cunning have given them the leverage necessary to share the spoils through a fragile détente.
“But internal conflict between the brash younger generation and the old-school leadership threatens to set a match to this powder keg, which will sweep the Westies into the FBI’s ever-deepening investigation into the Italian mafia.”
The Westies premiered on 12th July 2026 exclusively on MGM+ in the UK.
The BBC has launched a new crime drama by the creator of Unforgotten starring John Simm alongside some other famous names
The first few minutes of I, Jack Wright took viewers by surprise(Image: BBC)
BBC viewers wasted no time sharing their reactions to the broadcaster’s latest crime drama.
Written by Chris Lang, the celebrated creator behind Unforgotten, Innocent, The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe, I, Jack Wright is a compelling whodunnit starring Nikki-Amuka Bird, John Simm, Daniel Rigby, Ruby Ashbourne-Serkis, Zoë Tapper, Percelle Ascott, Harry Lloyd and Liz Kingsman.
A synopsis reads: “I, Jack Wright, is a propulsive whodunnit with family secrets at its core. The apparent death by suicide of high-powered businessman Jack Wright (played by Trevor Eve) sends shockwaves through his family, leaving a mystery that pits greed, loyalty and suspicion against one another.
“As his many wives and children fight over the remains of his estate, a dogged police detective investigates – and uncovers the shocking truth about this well-heeled clan.”
Within minutes of the opening episode airing on BBC One on Sunday, July 12, viewers were sharing their thoughts on social media, reports Wales Online.
And it appears many were caught off guard when legendary actor Eve’s character met his demise almost immediately after the opening credits finished.
One viewer remarked: “Eddie Shoestring didn’t last long in this,” referencing Eve’s ’80s private detective TV drama Shoestring.
Another added: “Looked at the cast for #IJackWright and thought ooh, nice! Then one of my favourite actors character was dead in the first 5 minutes! Hopefully there’ll be some flashback scenes.”
Yet despite Jack Wright’s swift demise, audiences appeared to embrace the whodunit, with one viewer remarking: “It’s a bit like Cluedo.”
Another enthused: “ooh blimey! Binge time!”
The drama was filmed across London, particularly Holborn and Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Paris, and Hertfordshire. The Wright family’s main home, Marston House, was shot at the Mansion House North Mymms Park.
I, Jack Wright first debuted in April 2025 on UandAlibi before being acquired by the BBC. This means not only will the first series be repeated by the broadcaster, but they’ve also secured the second series, which is presently in production.
The inaugural series consists of six episodes altogether. The first episode premiered on BBC One on Sunday, 12 July, as part of a double bill.
Those who relished the opening two instalments won’t have long to wait, as episodes three and four will be shown on Monday, 13 July. Episodes five and six are scheduled to air on Sunday, 19 July.
The ‘beautiful’ BBC period drama is perfect for fans Jane Austen and is based on a literay classic.
2005’s Pride and Prejudice stars Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen(Image: Publicity picture)
Pride and Prejudice fans have been encouraged to rediscover a “brilliant” overlooked period drama.
The sweet romance on Prime Video, situated in the mid-19th century, has earned acclaim for its “beautiful” landscapes and “heartwarming” narrative.
Originally broadcast on the BBC in 2005, the production boasts a stellar ensemble headed by Miss Austen’s Keeley Hawes. Additional cast members include The Crown’s James Murray, Inside No. 9 actor Steve Pemberton and Lark Rise to Candleford star Ben Miles.
Now that the film has become available to stream, audiences have been revisiting the adaptation based on Thomas Hardy’s celebrated novel of the same name.
Under the Greenwood Tree marks the second published work by the English writer Thomas Hardy, initially released anonymously in 1872, reports the Express.
It chronicles the tale of a romance between schoolmistress Fancy Day (Hawes) and church musician Dick Dewey (Murray).
The official synopsis reads: “In this lighthearted romance from Victorian novelist Thomas Hardy, the beautiful new village school teacher is pursued by three suitors: a working-class man, a landowner, and the vicar.”
Helmed by Nicholas Laughland, the production carries a 6.9/10 rating on IMDb and appears not to have received extensive critical assessment at the time of its release.
Audiences have flocked to IMDb to express their admiration for the overlooked period drama, describing it as ‘brilliant’ and ‘perfect comfort viewing’.
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TV lovers can get 30 days’ free access to tantalising TV like The Boys, Reacher and Clarkson’s Farm by signing up to Amazon Prime. Just remember to cancel at the end and you won’t be charged.
One viewer wrote: “In the tradition of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, there is the mix of position, miscommunication, and the delightfulness of authenticity of period. A treat to watch. The acting, script, and setting all played well together. If you adore period romances, then this should go on your list to watch.”
Another fan gushed: “Superb. This film, although made for TV, will be a classic, just like the 1995 Pride and Prejudice directed by Simon Langton. The sets seemed remarkably authentic, and all the cast were excellent […] I have watched it 3 times in two days.”
A third viewer reflected: “The scenery was stunning, the plot had depth and kept me and my family gripped throughout. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone with a warm heart, as it certainly warmed mine.”
“Beautiful film in every way, from the classic Thomas Hardy novel,” another viewer said, while a further admirer agreed: “A thing of beauty and wonder.”
However, not everyone was won over by the film, with one critic labelling it a ‘big let down’ and another commenting: “I usually don’t like Hardy’s stuff… I guess that continues.”
Under the Greenwood Tree is streaming now on Prime Video.
Hello! I’m Mark Olsen. Welcome to another edition of your regular field guide to a world of Only Good Movies.
One of the big discoveries for me at this year’s Sundance Film Festival was the erotic thriller “Night Nurse,” which opens in theaters this week. A remarkably confident feature debut from writer-director Georgia Bernstein, the film is hypnotic and entrancing, with a powerfully sustained sense of mood and menace. Brought to life by two assured lead performances, the story is about a young woman (Cemre Paksoy) who takes a job as an attendant at a senior living community and is assigned to help a man (Bruce McKenzie) who quickly ensnares her into an ongoing phone scam in which he swindles other residents.
Taking cues from the likes of Catherine Breillat and David Cronenberg, there are moments where you start to feel turned on and then feel weird about feeling turned on. It’s delightful stuff, full of the unexpected and unnerving, with shifting power dynamics that destabilize everything. See it with someone you maybe aren’t so sure about.
‘Hudson Hawk’ will have its day
Andie MacDowell and Bruce Willis in the 1991 movie “Hudson Hawk.”
(Columbia TriStar / Getty Images)
Its name has become synonymous with box office bomb, with tales of an out-of-control production leading to terrible reviews and rejection by audiences. Yet 1991’s “Hudson Hawk” is one of those movies that over the years has seen its reputation slowly turn around and is now en route to becoming a cult classic in the vein of “Ishtar” or “Showgirls.”
On Monday at Brain Dead Studios there will be a 35th anniversary screening of the film in 35mm with director Michael Lehmann and co-writer Daniel Waters in-person. Presented by Hollywood Entertainment, the evening could be ground zero for the next stage of the misbegotten movie’s revival.
The movie is a playful buddy-comedy / caper-heist hybrid, starring Bruce Willis as the title character, a master thief newly released from prison who reteams with his old partner (Danny Aiello) as they are drawn into a convoluted conspiracy involving the CIA, a villainous ultra-rich couple (played with maniacal, scene-stealing glee by Richard E. Grant and Sandra Bernhard) and ancient designs by Leonardo da Vinci. Upending action movie conventions, “Hudson Hawk” is simply a fun hang.
On a recent video call together, there is a certain gallows humor shared by Lehmann and Waters over the film, which at the time threatened to derail both of their careers. Waters was already working on the script for Tim Burton’s “Batman Returns” by the time the movie came out, while Lehmann admits he spent some time in director jail — “I was in director federal penitentiary and death row for a while,” he says — before going on to direct films such as “Airheads” and “The Truth About Cats and Dogs.”
“You can’t escape a big failure in Hollywood,” he adds. “You have to be good-natured about the fact that you’ve made something that so many people hated when it came out, but that you feel still has some value — quite a bit of value, I think. And that eventually people would start noticing that.”
The project began as an idea between Willis and his friend Robert Kraft that snowballed into having action super-producer Joel Silver attached and a screenplay draft by “Die Hard” writer Steven E. De Souza. Eventually Lehmann became involved to direct and he helped bring on Waters, the two having worked together on the hit black comedy “Heathers.” (Waters had also worked with Silver on “The Adventures of Ford Fairlane.”) The reunited writer-director team set about subverting what began as a more conventional action movie.
“My intention was to turn that kind of movie on its head,” says Lehmann. “I thought people have seen these things so many times, they must be ready to see the truly odd version of it.”
“In the Olympics you can’t just go up and make any dive,” says Waters. “You tell the judges what dive you’re going to do and then they grade you. And ‘Hudson Hawk,’ we never told the judges what dive we were doing. I think people got angry: Wait a minute, you didn’t give us a Bruce Willis action movie.”
Leading up to the film’s release, there were reports of a shoot hijacked by a star whose ego was getting the better of him as he rode the wave of the success of the first two “Die Hard” movies. Lehmann admits the clash of personalities made for a complicated shoot.
“Of course, when you’re hired by Bruce Willis and Joel Silver to do what is essentially a vanity project of Bruce’s, you’re not going to have the kind of control that you have when you make a piece of personal filmmaking,” says Lehmann. “But it was really difficult to deal with somebody who, in theory, was one of my bosses as producer on the film and a big star, which is always a thousand-pound gorilla.”
Author David Hughes recently published “The Unmaking of Hudson Hawk,” a book on the film’s production, reception and afterlife. Calling from England, Hughes thinks the critical reappraisal and resuscitation of the movie has gained a bit of momentum — and is in danger of slipping.
“I feel like any day there’s going to be a headline that says, ‘Nope, despite what you’ve heard, “Hudson Hawk” is still s—.’ The pendulum is about to swing back the other way and people are going to start saying that it’s bad again. And when that happens, I think that will be the most perfect life cycle of the film.”
But for now two of the key people behind making the film in the first place want to enjoy a moment they have rarely been allowed.
“People are finally laughing with the movie, not at the movie,” says Waters.
Celebrating a fallen friend
Harry Dean Stanton, photographed in Los Angeles in 2013.
(Jordan Strauss / Invision / AP)
To celebrate the centennial of the birth of the beloved character actor Harry Dean Stanton, Vidiots will screen the 2013 documentary “Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction” on Tuesday. Director Sophie Huber will be joined in conversation by actor Logan Sparks for an evening hosted by Cherry Jones.
The film is a tender portrait of Stanton, who found relative fame later in life with roles in films such as “Alien,” “Paris, Texas,” “Repo Man” and “Pretty in Pink.”
“He makes it look really easy,” said Stanton’s friend and frequent collaborator David Lynch around the time of Stanton’s death in 2017. “But it’s not that easy to be looking like it’s easy.”
A flaky love story
Gena Rowlands and Seymour Cassel in the 1971 movie “Minnie and Moskowitz.”
(Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images)
One of my most memorable moviegoing experiences of the last few years was seeing John Cassavetes’ 1971 “Minnie and Moskowitz” for the first time. The movie has a joyful, unpredictable energy thanks to the openhearted, dynamic performances of its two leads, Gena Rowlands and Seymour Cassel, as two mismatched strangers who find temporary solace in each other. Romantic, funny and with lots of great L.A. locations and moments — I often think of a perilous U-turn across La Brea by Cassel — this is a singular gem.
It was just announced that a new restoration of the film will premiere later this year at the Venice Film Festival, but there is no reason to wait. The movie is showing tonight at the Philosophical Research Society as part of its “YesterdayLA” series celebrating the city. On Saturday there will also be a rare theatrical screening of 1972’s “Columbo: Étude In Black,” starring Cassavetes as an L.A. symphony conductor who may have committed the perfect crime until he catches the attention of Peter Falk’s rumpled detective.
On the road again
Maribel Verdú, left, Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal in the movie “Y Tu Mamá También.”
(Criterion Collection)
Playing as part of the American Cinematheque’s “Summer Breakdown” series, which, true to its name, features movies about car trouble, Alfonso Cuarón’s 2001 “Y Tu Mamá También” is showing tonight and tomorrow at the Los Feliz Theater in 35mm.
It stars Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna as two teenage best friends who set off on a road trip with an alluring older woman (Maribel Verdú) they don’t know particularly well. Emotions fly fast and furious among all three of them, as the film seems at times like a horndog teen comedy and at others like a subtle exploration of class and sexual dynamics. Of course, it is all of those things, made with a fresh sense of style.
As Kenneth Turan put it in his 2002 review, “Nominally a simple road movie about two Mexican teenagers taking off to look for a mythical beach in the company of a suddenly available woman of 28, ‘Y Tu Mamá’ manages to be comic, dramatic, erotic, sociological and even political, all without breaking a sweat.”
Less positively, Amy reviewed the live-action adaptation of “Moana,” noting “Every one of Disney’s remakes and spinoffs of its animated hits has been a naked cash grab.”
The new “Evil Dead Burn” is brutal and not much else, per our reviewer Joshua Rothkopf: “The gore comes like a tide, shockingly for a mainstream studio wide release.”
Jane Austen’s most famous novels have been adapted numerous times, but one film adaptation is widely praised as one of the best.
Kelly Reilly stars in the iconic film(Image: UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
Period drama fans need to clear their diaries this weekend for a Jane Austen classic.
Devotees of period dramas and Jane Austen classics are being urged to set aside time as a “simply excellent” Austen reimagining is being broadcast free-to-air. Pride & Prejudice stands as one of Austen’s most celebrated novels and the 1813 masterpiece has been brought to screen on countless occasions.
The narrative charts the tempestuous relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy and the ramifications of rash judgements.
In 2005, a period romance film featuring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen in the principal roles was released and it garnered widespread critical acclaim from audiences at home. The 2005 Pride & Prejudice film is being shown on BBC Two this Sunday, July 12, having recently departed Netflix.
Screenwriter Deborah Moggach dedicated more than two years to crafting the script, creating approximately 10 different drafts.
Actress Knightley also disclosed on The Graham Norton Show that she hadn’t been an obvious contender for the leading role, as director Joe Wright believed she was “too pretty”.
Despite considerable uncertainties surrounding the film and some criticism from reviewers, Austen devotees have proclaimed it among the finest adaptations to date.
In July 2025, the film appeared in the Readers’ Choice edition of The New York Times’ list of The 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century.
Enthusiasts turned to IMDb reviews to voice their opinions, with one declaring it an “emotional masterpiece”, stating: “Pride and Prejudice was the best movie I’ve seen in a very long time, if not the best I’ve ever seen.
“It captured the very essence of Jane Austen’s brilliant novel. In fact, I enjoyed the movie more than the book itself. Everything about the movie was perfect.
“This movie is a work of art, an emotional masterpiece. Watching this movie was actually a life-changing experience.”
Another viewer described it as “absolutely perfect”, sharing: “This Pride and Prejudice adaptation perfectly captured the wit, the intelligence, the passion and the romance of Jane Austen’s classic.
“The 1995 mini is fabulous, and I have watched it many times, but I have always been frustrated that while it got so much of the dialogue and the detail right, it somehow fell flat on some of the more subtle dynamics of the novel. But this movie adaptation has captured what has before been missing!”.
A final fan labelled it “simply excellent”, sharing: “Loved this movie. It’s simplicity that empowered every possibility for imagination. The music, the natural scenes, the arts, and every honest soul in the movie made this film alive.”
Pride & Prejudice is being broadcast on BBC Two this Sunday, July 12, at 4.25pm.
When the World Cup ends, regardless of who wins, we’ll still have loads of great content every day as we build up to the new football season.
As well as all the fall-out and reaction to the tournament, we’ll quickly shift back in the club football with pre-season coverage and all the latest transfer gossip and stories.
BBC Sport and teams across BBC Nations and Regions cover every club in the Premier League, WSL, EFL, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
We have dedicated club reporters, who will be travelling to bring you behind-the-scenes insights from pre-season tours.
We’ll also have live pages for selected pre-season matches as well as in-depth features and storytelling, giving you the latest updates before the new campaign.
Once the World Cup ends, some of the standout players will be hot property in the transfer market, with top clubs chasing their signatures.
Our reporters, including senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel, will be breaking the big transfer stories on our website and app.
We’ll also have our daily transfer gossip column, wrapping up all the rumours from across the football world.
For fans of World Cup Predictor, a brand new weekly Predictor game will be launching immediately after the tournament with five fixtures a week to predict the outcomes of.
You’ll be able to build up your streaks and share your results with friends and family.
Our quizzes will also continue to be available to play so you can test your knowledge of the beautiful game.
The series comes from Law & Order creator Dick Wolf and examines gruesome killings from the perspectives of those directly impacted. Viewers hear from detectives and prosecutors, as well as the families of the victims.
It offers a complete overview of how law enforcement approached the cases, and how citizens were forced to mourn their loved ones.
Season 3, which is titled Homicide: New York, focuses on a serial offender who targeted victims in Central Park, a suspicious drowning at Soho House, and an unfiltered recounting of 9/11 from the officers who were at Ground Zero.
While many Netflix subscribers may have missed the show, those who caught it upon its release were thoroughly impressed.
An IMDb user raved “we need more,” before writing: “Amazing!! The editing was simply perfect, but the true stories oh my they were so sad but very interesting to hear.
“The people behind all the hard work to find out the results were brilliant and very well spoken about the cases and families involved! Need another 5 episodes!!!”
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Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan.
This lets members watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes hit shows like Stranger Things and The Last of Us.
Someone else agreed with the praise, adding: “In True Crime Drama…This one STANDS ABOVE. There are a lot of documentaries out there regarding true crime. Dick Wolf has done an extraordinary job on bringing this one to the screen. I would say it’s one of the best written, true crime dramas ever made.”
While an X, formerly Twitter, user urged others to tune in. “If anyone’s looking for a good murder mystery, definitely recommend Homicide New York on Netflix,” they said.
Yet another fan agreed, stating: “Homicide: New York is insaneeeeeee. if you’re into true crime, you definitely want to watch it.”
All fifteen episodes of Homicide are available to stream now on Netflix
Continuing my summer observations looking back at memorable moments in covering high school sports since 1976, you can’t find a better, more beloved action-packed night than Feb. 24, 2017, at USC’s Galen Center when you got to see two great high school basketball games for the price of one in the Southern Section Open Division semifinals.
Anyone who was there remembers the long lines to get in, the sold-out crowd and drama involving Sierra Canyon against Bishop Montgomery and Mater Dei against Chino Hills.
The BBC has produced a number of critically acclaimed and beloved films and TV shows over the years – but one gritty crime drama may have slipped under the radar for many fans
The crime drama follows a teenager who gives his brother’s friends a lift then finds himself charged as an accessory to murder(Image: Tony Blake/BBC/LA Productions)
A “gritty” BBC crime drama has left viewers “heartbroken” but it may well have gone completely unnoticed by some film fans.
The BBC has built a stellar reputation among TV and film enthusiasts thanks to its numerous top-tier productions which continue to be praised long after they first aired. There’s something to suit all tastes, from entertaining and fun sitcoms, steamy storylines and beloved period dramas, to powerful, unflinching crime thrillers, and much more.
Lots of BBC-backed films remain critically celebrated and adored to this day, from 2019’s musical crime drama hit Blue Story, and the thought-provoking Looted, to the 1989 Gary Oldman-led cult crime classic The Firm, and countless others.
The BBC’s television catalogue is equally respected, with the likes of hugely popular police drama Line of Duty, bleak favourite Happy Valley and the tense anthology drama The Missing frequently listed as among the best the broadcaster has produced.
But a 90-minute crime film may have escaped many viewers’ attention – and if you’re partial to hard-edged legal dramas, it’s worth checking out.
It’s the 2014 made-for-television film, Common. It was written by Jimmy McGovern and directed by David Blair. The film stars Nico Mirallegro, Michelle Fairley and Harry Potter alum Michael Gambon.
The storyline follows 17 year old Johnjo O’Shea, portrayed by Mirallegro, who is asked to give his older brother’s friends a lift in his brother’s car to take them to a pizza takeaway.
Unbeknownst to Johnjo, one of his passengers has an ulterior motive for heading to the takeaway – he intends to confront a rival who’ll be there.
A row erupts between one of Johnjo’s passengers and an onlooker, Tommy Ward. Tommy is eventually stabbed and fatally wounded by the passenger.
Johnjo ends up in court charged as an accessory to murder, under the doctrine of common purpose; a component of the UK’s contentious Joint Enterprise legal doctrine which permits multiple people to be prosecuted and found guilty of the same offence – regardless of the different roles they may have played in a crime.
Writer Jimmy McGovern drew inspiration from the actual case of 16 year old Jordan Cunliffe, who received a sentence under this law for a minimum period of 12 years for the murder of Garry Newlove, who was beaten to death in August 2007 after challenging a group of youths outside his home.
Cunliffe was understood to have played no active role in the assault on Newlove.
The film traces the legal proceedings that follow, alongside the consequences and tensions that arise between the various families affected.
On Rotten Tomatoes, viewers have shared their opinions on the somewhat overlooked drama. One fan said: “Actor and storyline driven, this gritty British drama brings a new area of crime and punishment to light.
“Jodhi May stands out, but with many regular British drama faces, this is a tale that leaves no mother without an emotional pull.”
Another viewer wrote: “I thought this was a simple movie, but powerful all the same.”
A third added: “Very well made and acted, but so heartbreaking I never want to see it again.”
Critics were equally impressed, with The Guardian describing it as “a brutal and devastating drama” that’s “bleak, powerful” and “thick with political intent”, though it noted this “occasionally robs it of its quality”.
Call Me by Your Name fans need to watch this “sexy” upcoming Netflix drama.
Hayley Anderson Screen Time TV Reporter
07:58, 06 Jul 2026
A “mind blowing” romantic drama is coming to Netflix. (Image: NETFLIX)
A “magnificent and sexy” Netflix drama is poised to star two Hollywood icons.
Book and film fans were captivated by Andre Aciman’s Call Me By Your Name, and now another of his bestselling novels is being transformed for television.
Aciman’s 2017 work Enigma Variations centres on “Paul, a man remade by the lovers who ignite and undo him across six transformative years”.
Netflix further describes it as an “intimate yet sweeping portrait of masculinity, sexuality and modern love.
“And in a world of endless choices, it asks the question: will we know when we’ve found the one?”
Taking the lead role as Paul is none other than Aaron Taylor-Johnson, renowned for 28 Years Later, Kicka**, Nosferatu and Nocturnal Animals.
Taylor-Johnson has also remained consistently amongst the bookmakers’ top picks to be cast as the next James Bond, alongside other contenders such as Callum Turner and Jacob Elordi.
He’ll be appearing opposite Alicia Vikander, celebrated for The Danish Girl and Tomb Raider, who plays Claire, one of Paul’s principal love interests throughout this period.
An official launch date hasn’t been revealed yet, but the Netflix adaptation is anticipated to mirror the books by being set across multiple locations including Italy, New York and New England.
Enigma Variations was hailed as a “magnificent living thing” by The New York Times Book Review, which added that “Aciman writes arousal so beautifully”.
The book has also garnered enormous praise from readers, with one commenting on Good Reads: “This book is staggeringly beautiful. Powerfully emotional, haunting, frank in its sexuality and its romanticism, this is a book about love, infatuation, longing, and lust.”
Another agreed that the “book blew me away”, while a third added: “Evocative, poetic and hopelessly romantic, Andre Aciman has written a cerebral narrative of love undefined.”
