Want to be an undead walk-on in 'Resident Evil: Retribution'?

Sony Pictures has issued the following press release concerning a fan-contest/casting call for the forthcoming "Resident Evil: Retribution," which just recently began production.

Think you've got what it takes to be part of Screen Gems' new Resident Evil movie? If you're a fan of the previous films based on Capcom's videogame Resident Evil, and can play an age between 18 and 34, you just might be considered for a walk-on part in the upcoming movie through Sony Pictures Entertainment's Face of the Fan® program, which has launched a casting call for the fifth installment of the film franchise. A Constantin Film International GmbH and Davis Films/Impact Pictures (RE5) Production, the movie is written and directed by Paul W. S. Anderson and also produced by Anderson and his Impact Pictures producing partner Jeremy Bolt, together with Robert Kulzer of Constantin Film, Don Carmody, and Davis Films' Samuel Hadida. Constantin Film's Martin Moszkowicz and Davis Films' Victor Hadida are executive producing.

Do you want to be undead?

Users nationwide can participate in this casting call, which is open to men and women, by visiting www.FaceOfTheFan.com and submitting audition materials for the role of an undead. The audition requires the user to provide contact information, a headshot photo, and a video (1 minute or less) of the participant stating why he/she is the biggest Resident Evil movie fan and acting out a dialogue line from any previous film in the franchise: Resident Evil: Afterlife, Resident Evil: Extinction, Resident Evil: Apocalypse, or Resident Evil. The audition submission process will end on Monday, October 3. All submissions will be reviewed and one person could be considered for a walk-on role in the film.

Face of the Fan® launched in November 2010 and has since done casting calls for several Screen Gems' properties. People from across the country can visit the website, download select materials to rehearse, and then upload their audition videos and other elements for submission. Submitted videos are then reviewed by a panel of studio and production executives and select participants are considered by casting agents for possible future roles. The concept for Face of the Fan® builds on several past initiatives from Sony Pictures, in which uber-fans were chosen to participate in various marketing-related activities. Whether meeting talent on the red carpet, interviewing them at Comic-Con, or becoming guest correspondents covering the movies, these programs allowed the winning fans to get close to actors and filmmakers like never before and share their experiences online with their friends, family, and other fans.

'The Lion King' re-release rules the box office

Seventeen years after Disney's "The Lion King" first hit theaters, the 3-D re-release managed to earn more than the other three films making their first debut this past weekend...combined.

"The Lion King" earned $30.1 million.

"Lion King" grabbed $30.1 million over the weekend, good enough for the fourth highest September opening in history and more than any movie has earned since the first weekend of August, when "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" earned $54 million in its debut.

Of course, the re-release benefited from the premium prices which go along with 3-D, but there's no denying "The Lion King" ruled the box office this weekend.

Last week's box office champ, "Contagion," fell to second place with $14.5 million and a two-week total of $44.2 million.

The critically praised "Drive" fared the best of the (true) newcomers with $11.4 million. "The Help" continues its strong--and lengthy--run at the box office, cleaning up another $6.5 million in its sixth week in theaters for a total of $147.4 million.

The "Straw Dogs" remake couldn't sniff out an audience, earning only $5.1 million for the weekend, figuring out to a paltry $2,128 per theater. Faring even worse was the Sarah Jessica Parker-starring "I Don't Know How She Does It," which earned only $4.4 million with an extra 68 theaters compared to "Straw Dogs."

"The Debt" followed with $2.9 million in its third weekend, while "Warrior" drew in $2.8 million in its second. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" ($2.6 million) and "Columbiana" ($2.3 million) rounded out the top 10.

The top ten grosses of the weekend (based on actual returns released today) were:

1. "The Lion King," $30,151,614 (New)
2. "Contagion," $14,548,433 ($44.2 million) 
3. "Drive," $11,340,461 (New) 
4. "The Help," $6,513,039 (Total: $147.4 million)
5. "Straw Dogs," $5,123,760 (New) 
6. "I Don't Know How She Does It," $4,402,201 (New)
7. "The Debt," $2,942,631 (Total: $26.5 million)
8. "Warrior," $2,860,325 ($10 million) 
9. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," $2,658,131 (Total: $171.6 million)
10. "Colombiana," $2,330,291 ($33.3 million)

Third 'Riddick' seeking a 2012 release date?

"The Final Stand of Riddick"

The third "Riddick" film could be out as early next year, according to the latest from star Vin Diesel.

The actor provided fans with the update via his Facebook page, also providing another piece of concept art, entitled "The Last Stand of Riddick."

"Concept art and Key frames allow a production to explore possibilities before actually committing to film, Diesel posted. "The road to the 'R' rating, that so many of you were vocal about, has been a long one. The advantage however, (never empower the negatives) was that we were allowed a really extensive preproduction. The art work is so good, the artists have really outdone themselves in illustrating this world at it's early stage.

"When this film comes to the screen... know that you willed it into being!" he added.

"I got two meetings today that I have been prepping for... one with the Director and another one with the head of the studio to discuss casting and the 2012 release date. Like always, I appreciate having your voice present in these meetings."

'The Hunger Games' wraps principal photography

Lionsgate announced Thursday the close of principal photography on the highly anticipated film adaptation of Suzanne Collins' bestselling novel "The Hunger Games."

It will be released March 23, 2012.

Lionsgate will release "The Hunger Games" on March 23, 2012. The film is the first in a series that Lionsgate is making based on the book trilogy that has become a worldwide phenomenon.

Filmed entirely in North Carolina, the locations spanned from a dense forest in which the arena that hosts the games themselves was created to a town that stood in for Katniss' home, District 12, to a sound stage that was the platform for the fantastical sights and sounds of The Capitol, the futuristic capital city of the nation of Panem. Principal photography on the 84 day production began on May 23.

The film pairs Oscar nominee Jennifer Lawrence ("Winter's Bone," "X-Men First Class") with Josh Hutcherson ("The Kids are Alright") and Liam Hemsworth ("The Last Song") in the key young adult roles. Rounding out the cast is a who's who of acclaimed adult actors: Oscar nominee Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Wes Bentley and Toby Jones.

"It has been an absolute thrill watching 'The Hunger Games,' a project that has truly become part of Lionsgate's DNA since our acquisition of the book in 2009, come to life. What I observed on set was impressive on every level, and reinforced my confidence that we have assembled precisely the right team to bring Suzanne Collins' brilliant novel to the big screen," said Joe Drake, Lionsgate's co-COO and motion picture group president.

J.J. Abrams directing 'Star Trek 2'

It was only a matter of time, although admittedly it took quite a bit more time than expected. J.J. Abrams has been confirmed as the director of "Star Trek 2."

The first film was released in 2009.

Abrams has been working on the script for the sequel with co-writers Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof since finishing the promotional tour for "Super 8."

"Star Trek 2" had been scheduled for a June 29, 2012, release but lost it to another sequel, "G.I. Joe 2." A new release date has not been revealed.

Vulture first broke the news, stating that according to sources pre-production is underway and the script will be complete by the end of September.

The first film, released May 8, 2009, grossed $257 million domestically and $385 million worldwide.

Boris Kodjoe returning for 'Resident Evil: Retribution'

Another day, and another actor Tweeting about his involvement in "Resident Evil: Retribution."

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe, who played Luther West in "Afterlife" will be back for the forthcoming film, which is in production now.

"Ok, Resident Evil fans. @MillaJovovich and myself are up here in Toronto getting ready for RE5 More action than ever!!!" he posted Tuesday.

In addition to "Afterlife," Kodjoe starred in "Surrogates" and the short-lived television series "Undercovers."

He joins Colin Salmon, who also recently announced he was returning to the world of "Resident Evil." Salmon played the commando One in the first film and subsequently posted that he couldn't elaborate on how his character will be back, because "it's intrinsic to the plot."

Hugh Grant joins Wachowski's 'Cloud Atlas'

Actor Hugh Grant has joined the Wachowski's adaptation of "Cloud Atlas," which will begin filming Friday.

Hugh Grant

According to Screen Daily, filming will take place in Glasgow, Spain and Germany. It was reported last month that co-directors Andy and Lana Wachowski ("The Matrix") and Tom Tykwer ("Run Lola Run," "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer") will be filming simultaneously with the former handling the more futuristic settings while the latter shoots the period stories.

Based on the novel by David Mitchell, the movie will tell six stories in different times and places, ranging from 19th century Australia to post-apocalyptic Hawaii. The novel was originally published in 2004.

Grant joins Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon and Jim Broadbent.

Juan Carlos Fresnadillo to direct 'Highlander' remake

There can be only one? Apparently not.

"Highlander" debuted in 1986.

Summit Entertainment has announced it has signed direct Juan Carlos Fresnadillo to helm its remake of "Highlander."

Fresnadillo wrote and directed "28 Weeks Later," the sequel to the popular "28 Days Later." He is also attached to the litigation-plagued "The Crow" remake for Relativity Media.

"Highlander" hit theaters in 1986, featuring Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod, an immortal who must battle against other like himself only one remains. Immortals can only be killed by decapitation.

The film spawned three sequels and a television series, which followed Adrian Paul as Duncan MacLeod. The series had its own spin-off and feature film.

The remake is based on a script from Art Marcum and Matt Holloway ("Iron Man," "Punisher: War Zone").

This is one of those remakes that immediately falls into the "why?" file. Sure the sequels never lived up to the first film, but "Highlander" is a classic and remains a staple of pop culture 25 years after its debut.

Colin Salmon returning to 'Resident Evil'

Actor Colin Salmon is returning to the world of "Resident Evil," after he played the commando One in the first film.

Colin Salmon

Salmon posted on his Twitter account Saturday, stating, "Confirmed I will be shooting new Resident Evil movie. Paul Anderson has written an amazing script."

It seems almost of the new concerning "Resident Evil: Retribution" is coming from Twitter these days, with lead actress Milla Jovovich giving almost daily updates on the production.

As for Salmon's role in "Retribution," little is known at the moment considering his character One was left in more than a few pieces in the first film.

In addition to "Resident Evil," Salmon has starred in "AVP: Alien vs. Predator," which was also directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, as well as "Tomorrow Never Dies," "The World is Not Enough" and "Punisher: War Zone."

No Felix Leiter in 'Bond 23'?

Comingsoon.net is reporting that actor Jeffrey Wright has not yet been contacted about reprising his role of CIA agent Felix Leiter in the forthcoming "Bond 23."

Jeffrey Wright

Wright played Leiter in both "Casino Royale" in 2006 and "Quantum of Solace" in 2008.

According to the report, Wright told Comingsoon at the Toronto International Film Festival that the character may still be mentioned in the new film.

"Bond 23" is being directed by Sam Mendes ("American Beauty," "Road to Perdition," "Revolutionary Road") and will once again star Daniel Craig, who portrayed British secret agent James Bond in "Casino Royale" and "Quantum of Solace."

Wright is the seventh actor to portray Leiter in the official bond films, following Jack Lord, Cec Linder, Rik Van Nutter, Norman Burton, David Hedison and John Terry.

'Contagion' sweeps through the weekend box office

"Contagion" infected the box office this weekend, producing the largest box office gross in a month to take the number one spot.

"Contagion" grossed $23.1 million.

The Steven Soderbergh-directed ensemble thriller earned an estimated $23.1 million in its debut weekend, the largest three-day total since the weekend of Aug. 12, during which "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" earned $27.5 million in its second week.

Since that time, there have been significantly more box office failures than successes, with the lone bright spot being "The Help," which dropped to number two this weekend after three straight weeks in the top spot. The film earned $8.7 million in its fifth week in theaters for a total of $137 million.

The mix-martial arts drama "Warrior" didn't have much of a punch, earning $5.6 million in its debut weekend, the only other newcomer to make it into the top 10.

Last week's number two film, "The Debt," fell to number four with $4.9 million and a total of $21 million.

"Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star," the other wide release of the weekend, utterly failed to shine, finishing with $1.4 million in 15th place. It's notable that the limited release "Laugh at My Pain" outdrew "Bucky Larson" with $2 million in only 97 theaters compared to the latter's 1,977

The weekend's top 10 grossing films according to studio estimates were: 

1. "Contagion," $23,135,000 (New)
2. "The Help," $8,691,000 (Total: $137 million)
3. "Warrior," $5,607,000 (New) 
4. "The Debt," $4,905,000 (Total: $21.9 million)
5. "Colombiana," $4,000,000 ($29.7 million)
6. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," $3,875,000 (Total: $167.8 million) 
7. "Shark Night 3D," $3,533,000 ($14.8 million)  
8. "Apollo 18," $2,913,000 ($15 million)
9. "Our Idiot Brother," $2,761,000 ($21.4 million)
10. "Sky Kids: All the Time in the World," $2,506,000 ($34.2 million)

'Coraline' studio Laika to adapt Colin Meloy's 'Wildwood'

Animation studio Laika, which produced "Coraline," has optioned "Wildwood," the debut HarperCollins children’s novel written by Colin Meloy, lead singer and songwriter for The Decemberists, with illustrations by award-winning artist Carson Ellis.

"Wildwood" was published on Aug. 30.

The announcement was made Thursday by LaikaPresident and CEO Travis Knight.

“Wildwood is a marvel, an exquisite, staggering and lyrical work of art,” Knight said. “It’s an uncannily perfect fit for Laika, commingling the time-honored qualities of classic fantasies and fairy tales with a bold, contemporary sensibility. Colin’s captivating, melodic prose and Carson’s gorgeous, spellbinding illustrations form a rich bounty of ideas, language and imagery. Wildwood is a wonderful work of literature, and Laika is fully committed to honoring it with an exceptional, groundbreaking film.”

"Wildwood," the first book in a middle-grade fantasy series full of magic, wonder and danger set in an alternate version of modern-day Portland, tells the story of Prue McKeel, whose ordinary life is changed forever when her younger brother is abducted by a murder of crows and taken to the Impassable Wilderness, an enchanted and forbidding forest on the edge of the city.

Alcon Entertainment in talks to produce David Twohy's 'Leonardo Job'

"Pitch Black" director David Twohy is in talks to develop "The Leonardo Job" for Alcon Entertainment.

David Twohy

The deal comes together, Twohy will direct the project based on his own screenplay.

According to The Wrap, "The Leonardo Job" is "a heist movie about the theft of a 'lost' Leonardo da Vinci painting. The story is about two rival thieves who travel to Florence to find the painting. They use both high-tech methods and old fashioned tricks to prove the painting exists and find it. Ultimately, they have to work together when they learn that they're not the only ones looking for the painting."

In addition  to "Pitch Black," "The Chronicles of Riddick" and the forthcoming third film in the franchise, Twohy wrote the screenplays for "G.I. Jane," "A Perfect Getaway" and "Waterworld."

Production underway for 'Resident Evil: Retribution'

Production is underway for "Resident Evil: Retribution," the fifth film in the video-game adaptation and actress Milla Jovovich is continuing to update fans through Twitter.

Milla Jovovich

Screen Gems has set a Sept. 14, 2012, release date for "Retribution" and the film will once again be directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, who is married by Jovovich.

The actress posted Friday: "hey every1! 'camp evil' is in full swing! every1 has moved in2 the studio here in toronto and we're 1 big happy family. lol!"

She also discussed the film's costumes and stunt work.

"already i've cut 2 of alices costume changes, i mean really! is this a resident evil fashion show? no way," she posted, again on Friday, following up with, "the costume my design partner, carmen hawk, and i have drawn up looks so great! i'm going in a few minutes to try it on!"

"also, i sat in on a stunt rehearsal yesterday and its SICK!!!! we're working w nick powell, who did the stunts on the "bourne" movies," she posted.

Powell has had a lengthy career in stunt work and served as coordinator on "The Three Musketeers," which will be released in the U.S. next month and was also directed by Anderson.

The first "Resident Evil" film was released in 2002, followed by "Apocalypse" in 2004, "Extinction" in 2007 and "Afterlife" in 2010.

Third 'Riddick' movie to be rated R

Riddick first appeared in 2000's "Pitch Black."

Actor Vin Diesel has once again updated fans on the progress of the much-anticipated third "Riddick" film, stating the Universal production will be rated R.

"I am grateful to have Universal in such support of this complex character's journey... not many studios would back an 'R' rating. Very cool," Diesel posted on Facebook.

The character of Riddick, played by Diesel, first appeared in 2000's "Pitch Black." That movie was followed by 2004's "The Chronicles of Riddick." The sequel was rated PG-13, while the original was R. Both films were written and directed by David Twohy.

Vin Diesel

"While I was working on character, the director and his team of artists have been creating the world and style of this picture," Diesel said about the third film, posted a sample of concept art (shown above). "We all know how much I enjoy concept art and storyboards, haha, I am like a kid in a candy shop."

"Seeing the early stage of CGI is always fascinating to me, it is a element that usually comes together long after the filming process, so you look forward to seeing it fully realized."

He went on to say that the first stop for "Riddick 3" production will be in Canada, where a large portion of "Chronicles" was filmed.

The existing plot synopsis for the upcoming film is as follows: "Betrayed by his own kind and left for dead on a desolate planet, Riddick fights for survival against alien predators and becomes more powerful and dangerous than ever before. Soon bounty hunters from throughout the galaxy descend on Riddick only to find themselves pawns in his greater scheme for revenge. With his enemies right where he wants them, Riddick unleashes a vicious attack of vengeance before returning to his home planet of Furya to save it from destruction."

Weekend Box Office: 'The Debt' leads newcomers at the box office; 'The Help' stays on top

August's box office woes continued into the first weekend of September, with three new movies once again failing to unseat "The Help" from its number one position.

"The Debt" earned $9.6 million.

"The Help," which became the first movie since "Inception" to top the box office chart three weeks in a row, earned $14.2 million in its fourth weekend, bringing its total to $118 million. The film only dropped 2.3 percent compared its total last week.

"The Debt," starring Hellen Mirren, led the newcomers with  $9.6 million, good enough for second place, according to studio estimates. Although not a great opening total, it made its money on significantly fewer screens than its competition, 1,800 compared to 2,800 for "The Help" and "Shark Night 3D" and 3,300 for "Apollo 18."

Speaking of the horror thrillers, "Apollo 18" debuted with $8.7 million, with "Shark Night 3D" just behind at $8,640,000.

"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" continued its strong run, picking up $7.8 million in its fifth week for a total of $160 million.

Last week's "Columbiana" fell a respectable 28 percent to hold at sixth place, followed by "Our Idiot Brother" with $5.1 million and "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" with $4.9 million. "Spy Kids: All the Time in the World" and "The Smurfs" rounded out the top 10.

With Labor Day on Monday, the films are expected to increase their holiday weekend totals, which will be reported tomorrow.

The three-day weekend top ten was as follows:

1. "The Help," $14,209,000 (Total: $118.6 million)
2. "The Debt," $9,667,000 (Total: $11.5 million)
3. "Apollo 18," $8,700,000 (New)
4. "Shark Night 3D," $8,640,000 (New) 
5. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," $7,800,000 (Total: $160 million)
6. "Colombiana," $7,400,000 ($21.9 million)
7. "Our Idiot Brother," $5,182,000 ($15.4 million)
8. "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark," $4,941,000 ($16.3 million)
9. "Sky Kids: All the Time in the World," $4,637,000 ($29 million)
10. "The Smurfs," $4,000,000 (Total: $131.9 million)

Director David R. Ellis taking aim at 'Kite'

The controversial anime 'Kite' was released in 1998.

"Shark Night 3D" director David R. Ellis is looking to adapt the anime film "Kite" into a live-action thriller.

According to Variety, Ellis is set to direct with Anant Signh and Brian Cox producing under their Distant Horizon banner.

"Kite," directed by Yasuomi Umetsu, was released in 1998. The story follows Sawa, who is orphaned after her parents are murdered. Raised by the detectives who investigated her parents' murder, she is trained to be a ruthless assassin. When she meets another assassin her own age, they bond and she begins to question the motives of her guardians.

The anime film was quite controversial when it was released to due to its graphic violence and sex scenes, many involving an under-age Sawa.

This is not the first attempt to make a live-action adapation, with director Rob Cohen ("The Fast and the Furious") as well as Jorge and Javier Aguilera ("5:55") attached at various points.

Variety quoted Ellis as saying, "I am a big fan of Yasuomi Umetsu and honored to bring the amazing world of 'Kite' to the big screen."

In addition to "Shark Night 3D," Ellis has directed "Final Destination 2," "Cellular" and "Snakes on a Plane."

According to Variety, the producers are aiming for a January start-date on the project.

Steven Soderbergh speaks out about 'The Hunger Games'

A month after it was first reported that Steven Soderbergh ("Ocean's 11," "Traffic") was on the set of "The Hunger Games" helping out with some second unit work, the director is speaking out about his experiences with the project.

Steven Soderbergh

Attempting to quash rumors why he was he was helping out, Soderbergh spoke with Moviefone, saying, "I show up in North Carolina, a crewmember Tweets, 'Steven Soderbergh's here.'' And immediately the...firestorm starts. 'Why is he here? What's going on? Is the movie in trouble? Is he directing footage from the second one?" All of this crazy-ass speculation. People just spinning off.

Soderbergh and "The Hunger Games" director Gary Ross have worked together before, as the former helped produce the latter's 1998 film "Pleasantville."

According to Soderbergh, "The story is really simple. Back in April, Gary--who is a close friend of mine I've exchanged creative favors with non-stop over the last 15 years--when he got the boards for the shoot in April called me and said, 'Hey, first week of August, I got these two days of second unit. Is there any way you can come down and help me out? Because I'd rather have you do it than hire somebody who I don't know.' I said, 'Actually, that works out.' We'll just be finishing 'Contagion' and prepping 'Magic Mike' and, yeah, it could be fun."

'Total Recall' writer Mark Bomback to retool 'Wolverine' script

Last week it was reported that filming on "The Wolverine" will most likely be pushed back until early next year. Now Variety has confirmed that 20th Century Fox has hired Mark Bomback to rewrite the script.

Hugh Jackman

Bomback's credits include "Live Free of Die Hard," "Unstoppable" and "Race to Witch Mountain," as well as the forthcoming "Jack the Giant Killer" and "Total Recall."

He will be working from theoriginal script from Christopher McQuarrie's ("The Usual Suspects," "Valkyrie"). The story is expected to be set in Japan, although is the Japanese delays continue, some of the filming could be moved to Canada.

James Mangold ("Knight and Day," "3:10 to Yuma," "Walk the Line") is set to direct and star Hugh Jackman is reprising his role as Wolverine. Last week, it was reported that while Fox had been eying a fall start-date, weather concerns in Japan have delayed matters.

"X-Men Origins: Wolverine" hit theaters in 2009, spinning off of the successful "X-Men" trilogy, told the backstory of Logan/Wolverine (played by Jackman). That film was expected to be first of a number of films exploring the histories of various X-Men. The next was supposed to be "Magneto," but it was eventually reworked into June's "X-Men: First Class."

DeRay Davis latest to join 'G.I. Joe 2'

Actor Dwayne Johnson has become the go-to source for everything "G.I. Joe 2." Less than two weeks after revealing Bruce Willis was joining the project, Johnson posted on Twitter that comedian DeRay Davis is in too.

DeRay Davis

"On set now. We're all waiting for ONE actor: @DeRayDavis. Very late. Time to get ya ass whupped son," Johnson posted today. (Hat tip to Comingsoon.net for the link.)

Davis has appeared in a number of movies recently, including "Jumping the Broom" and "Life as We Know It." It is not clear what role he has in the "G.I. Joe" sequel.

Davis joins returning cast members Channing Tatum (Duke), Ray Park (Snake Eyes) and Byung-hun Lee (Storm Shadow), along with newcomers Adrianne Palicki (Lady Jane), D.J. Cotrona (Flint), RZA (Blind Master), Elodie Yung (Jinx), Ray Stevenson (Firefly), Walton Goggins (Warden Nigel James).

The sequel will be directed by Jon M. Chu ("Justin Bieber: Never Say Never") and is set for a June 29, 2012, release date.

John Moore to direct 'Die Hard 5'

Director John Moore is now free to die hard.

According to Deadline, the director survived the gauntlet and is in final negotiations to join actor Bruce Willis for "Die Hard 5."

Bruce Willis to return as John McClaine

It was revealed earlier this month that 20th Century Fox had shortlisted its choices for director, with Joe Cornish ("Attack the Block"), Justin Lin ("Fast Five") and Nicolas Winding Refn ("Drive") also in the running.

His films include "Max Payne," "The Omen" and "Behind Enemy Lines."

According to the report, filming for "Die Hard 5" will take place in Russia. Additionally, Willis was very "hands on" in the director search and met with Moore before the studio made its final decision.

The original "Die Hard" shot its way into theaters in 1988, and the latest installment, "Live Free or Die Hard," arrived in June 2007, bringing home $134 million domestically and $383 million worldwide on a production budget of $110 million. That film was directed by Len Wiseman, also known for the "Underworld" films.

Willis also recently signed on for the "G.I. Joe" sequel, in which he will play General Joe Colton, a character who never appeared in the 1980s animated series but did show up periodically in the various comic book incarnations, having been the original "G.I. Joe," appointed by President John F. Kennedy to create an "ultimate freedom fighting force."

First teaser of 'The Hunger Games' now online

The first teaser for 'The Hunger Games" is now online.

"The Hunger Games" adaptation may not be hitting theaters until March, but the buzz has been red hot the last couple of weeks since it was announced the first teaser would be released during last Sunday's MTV Video Music Awards.

Well, the VMAs came and went, and we got our first 60-second glimpse of actress Jennifer Lawrence ("Winter's Bone") as heroine Katniss Everdeen.

When I first watched the teaser (available below), I have to say I was a bit underwhelmed. Not by the footage itself, but by how lacking in context the clip was. As a fan of the books, I knew what was going on, but I'm betting a sizable proportion of Sunday's audience has never read the books and quite a few had never even heard of them until the clip interrupted their "musical" entertainment.

Steven Spielberg and Stephen King to bring 'Under the Dome' to Showtime

Steven Spielberg and Stephen King are partnering to bring the author's 2009 novel "Under the Dome" to Showtime as a series.

The novel was published in 2009.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the project will be produced by DreamWorks Television with King as executive producer along side DreamWorks TV's Justin Falvey and Darryl Frank.

The novel follows a small town in Maine which is suddenly closed off from the rest of the world by a impassible force field, and how the residents trapped inside react.

This isn't the first time Spielberg and King partnered on a project. In 2006, they tried to bring King and Peter Straub's "The Talisman" to TNT as a six-part mini-series but the project ultimately fell through due to budget concerns.

Josh Brolin joins Spike Lee's 'Oldboy' remake

Actor Josh Brolin will star in director Spike Lee's upcoming English-language adaptation of the 2003 Korean hit "Oldboy."

Josh Brolin

According to Deadline, the actor has officially signed onto the project, which is set to begin filming in March.

Brolin will next be seen in 2012's "Men in Black III" along side Will Smith. His most recent role was the villain Tom Chaney in the Coen brothers' "True Grit," and his resume also include parts in "Jonah Hex," "No Country for Old Men" and "Milk," for which he earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

The "Oldboy" remake will be based on a script by Mark Protosevich ("Thor," "I Am Legend," "Poseidon"), who will also co-produce.

Released in 2003, "Old Boy" followed a man who was kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years, only to discover his captor was more insidious plans in store for him.

Lee's last feature film was 2008's "Miracle at St. Anna" and his resume includes "Malcolm X," "She Gotta Have It" and "She Hate Me."

Sienne Guillory is offically Jill Valentine for 'Resident Evil: Retribution'

Although anyone who saw the after-credits scene in "Resident Evil: Afterlife" knew Jill Valentine was likely to return for the fifth film in the franchise, actress Sienna Guillory made it official today she will be the one playing her in the forthcoming "Resident Evil: Retribution."

'Retribution' will debut Sept. 14, 2012.

As ShockTillYouDrop.com first reported, Guillory posted on Twitter today: "Big day tomorrow! Meeting Paul Anderson and Jeremy Bolt and Robert Kultzer to see what my future looks like..."

She lated posted, confirming her involvement, "THANK YOU SO MUCH! RETRIBUTION HERE I COME!"

The actress hinted at her return in March, posting (again on Twitter), "RE:5 alert! Training begins! I aim to mostly put less in the big hole on the front of my face than comes out of the little one on my arse."

According to ShockTillYouDrop, however, her return was put in question when a report surfaced the actress was going to be replaced. Today's tweets, however, seem to have put the issue to bed.

Guillory starred as Jill Valentine in the second film, "Apocalypse," but didn't show up in the third film, and only returned in the after-credits sequence in "Afterlife." As I've stated before, hopefully her return will let us learn the fate of the young Angela (Sophie Vavasseur), who like Jill vanished sometime between the second and third films.

Screen Gems has set a Sept. 14, 2012, release date for "Retribution" and filming is expected to start later next month.

'The Departed' scribe William Monahan to visit 'Sin City'

Six years after directors Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller wowed audiences with "Sin City," the pair have signed Academy Award-winning screenwriter William Monahan to work on the script for the sequel.

William Monahan

Monahan won the 2006 Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for Martin Scorsese's "The Departed." His other credits include "Kingdom of Heaven," "Body of Lies" and "Edge of Darkness."

The Hollywood Reporter's Heat Vision first reported Monahan's signing adding that he will be "supplementing" a draft written by Miller, who created the original "Sin City" graphic novels.

Rodriguez said at Comic Con last month that financing was arranged and filming would begin as soon as the script was ready.

Fans, myself included, have been waiting for word on when the promised sequel would finally come. It seems the wait may soon be over.

Hurricane Irne helps 'The Help' to another victory

With the northeast facing Hurricane Irene, it was not a great weekend at the box office, with "The Help" holding onto the top spot for the second week in a row while another trio of newcomers disappointed.

'The Help' held onto the top spot.

"The Help" earned $14.5 million during its third weekend, bringing its total to $96 million and making it the second highest grossing film of the month, behind "Rise of the Planet of the Apes."

The prequel/reboot fell to third place this weekend with $8.9 million in its fourth week of release for a total of $148 million. (The studios released the weekend's actual box office grosses today.)

Of the newcomers, Luc Besson's "Columbiana" fared the best, with $10.4 million, good enough for second place. Directed by Oliver Megaton, the film, like most of Besson's works, was made on a smaller than average budget ($40 million). The opening for "Columbiana" was slightly higher than Besson's last film, "From Paris with Love" ($8.1 million), which went on to earn $24 million domestically and $52 million worldwide, equaling its production budget.

The horror film "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark," starring Katie Holmes, scared up $8.5 million in its debut weekend. Produced and written by Guillermo del Toro ("Pan's Labyrinth"), the movie was made for $25 million.

Opening in fifth place with $7 million was "Our Idiot Brother." Although the comedy boasted a paltry $2,700 per screen average, its tiny $5 million budget should help The Weinstein Company make its money back, depending on how much they spent on promotions.

Faring even worse were last weekend's holdovers, with "Spy Kids: All the Time in the World," "Conan the Barbarian" and "Fright Night" all taking significant hits in their second week, dropping 48 percent, 68 percent and 59 percent respectively. With a production budget of $90 million and only $16.6 million to show for it, "Conan" is making a case for one of the biggest box office bombs of the summer.

"The Smurfs," one of the only other films to find an audience this month (although it debuted the last weekend of July), held relatively strong with $4.5 million in its fifth week for a total of $125 million.

The weekend's top 10 films were as follows:

1. "The Help," $14,536,118 (Total: $96.8 million)
2. "Columbiana," $10,408,176 (New)
3. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," $8,867,741 (Total: $148.6 million)
4. "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark," $8,525,728 (New)
5. "Our Idiot Brother," $7,011,631 (New) 
6. "Sky Kids: All the Time in the World," $6,007,180 ($21.9 million)
7. "The Smurfs," $4,754,766 (Total: $125.9 million)
8. "Conan the Barbarian." $3,185,094 ($16.6 million)
9. "Crazy, Stupid, Love," $3,108,178 (Total: $69.7 million)
10. "Fright Night," $3,103,227 ($14.2 million)

Dan Aykroyd reveals 'Ghostbusters 3' details

Development on a third "Ghostbusters" film has been languishing for years, but according to to star Dan Aykroyd, filming may begin next spring.

The first film debuted in 1984.

Comingsoon.net quoted Aykroyd following his talk on Dennis Miller's radio show, saying they will be moving forward with the project with or without Bill Murray.

"Yes, we will be doing the movie and hopefully with Mr. Murray," he told Miller. "That is our hope. We have an excellent script. What we have to remember is that 'Ghostbusters' is bigger than any one component, although Billy was absolutely the lead and contributive to it in a massive way, as was the director and Harold [Ramis], myself and Sigourney [Weaver]. The concept is much larger than any individual role and the promise of 'Ghostbusters 3' is that we get to hand the equipment and the franchise down to new blood."

 Aykroyd also confirmed the rumor that the new film will feature the original Ghostbusters and a new generation.

"My character, Ray, is now blind in one eye and can't drive the cadillac," Aykroyd said. "He's got a bad knee and can't carry the packs... Egon is too large to get into the harness. We need young blood and that's the promise. We're gonna hand it to a new generation."

Although no casting has begun on the film, Aykroyd cast his vote on "Criminal Minds" actor Matthew Gray Gubler.

The original "Ghostbusters" film hit theaters in 1984 with the sequel following in 1989. The franchise also spawned the animated series "The Real Ghostbusters" and "Extreme Ghostbusters."

CW looking to develop 'Deadman' series

With "Smallville" now at an end, CW is once again looking to DC Comic to find a series.

Deadman first appeared in 1967.

Deadline is reporting that the network is developing a series based on the character Deadman from "Supernatural" creator Erik Kripke.

Deadman is a ghost who was once Boston Brand, a circus trapeze artist. He is given the ability to possess living people in order to solve crimes and fight evil.

The character first appeared in 1967 in "Strange Adventures" #205 and has had several dedicated series as well as numerous cameos in other comics. He most recently had a large role in DC's year-long "Brightest Day" series.

Warner Bros. TV will be producing the series.

Beware the seas: Lucian Msamati is sailing into season two of 'Game of Thrones' as Salladhor Saan

HBO's "Game of Thrones" has added a pirate lord to the menagerie of characters suiting up for its upcoming second season.

Lucian Msamati

Entertainment Weekly is reporting British actor Lucian Msamati has signed on to play Salladhor Saan, a sell sail pirate working for Lord Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dillane, "John Adams") and friend to Davos Seaworth the Onion Knight (Liam Cunningham, "Camelot").

Perhaps best known to American audiences for his work in HBO's "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency," Msamati has appeared in multiple television and film projects in England, including an episode of "Doctor Who."

The actor joins fellow season two newcomers Michael McElhatton ("Fifty Dead Men Walking") as Roose Bolton, Robert Pugh ("Robin Hood," "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World") as Craster, Hannah Murray (the U.K. "Skins") as Gilly, Roy Dotrice ("Amadeus," "Beauty and the Beast") as Pyromancer Hallyne, Tom Wlaschiha ("Enemy at the Gates") as Jaqen H'gar, Gemma Whelan ("The Wolfman") as Yara Greyjoy, Carice van Houten ("Repo Men," "Valkyrie") as Melisandre, Gwendoline Christie ("The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus") as Brienne and Natalie Dormer ("The Tudors") as Margaery Tyrell.

The first season was awarded Outstanding New Program by the Television Critics Association and also picked up 13 Emmy nominations, including Best Drama Series, Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister), Writing in a Drama Series and Direction in Single-Camera Series. The Emmys will be announced Sunday, Sept. 18.

Train sequences delaying 'Bond 23'

Another major studio film is finding itself delayed, only instead of weather, the problem with the upcoming "Bond 23" is trains.

The last bond film hit theaters in 2008.

The Times of India is reporting that the railways have failed to give the production permission to block the track in Ahmedabad and Goa to film the sequences.

"Bond 23" is being directed by Sam Mendes ("American Beauty," "Road to Perdition," "Revolutionary Road") and will once again star Daniel Craig, who portrayed British secret agent James Bond in 2006's "Casino Royale" and 2008's "Quantum of Solace."

Filming on the "Bond 23" train sequences has been pushed back from this fall until early next year, but there's already talk about moving the production to South Africa to avoid additional delays.

The Times quotes Pravesh Sahni of India Take One Productions, who said:

This could be one of the biggest Hollywood movies shot in our country. Trains are the backbone of the film. We'll pay for the shooting and also mention Indian Railways in the credit line. The shooting was supposed to happen in October-November. Now, we've postponed it to January-February. For the past three months, we've been trying to get things in order. The film has Daniel Craig doing stunts on a freight train. While the Indian Railways has given us permission to shoot, I need to meet someone and explain how important it is for us to block two tracks for eight hours a day over five to six days. For the past 15 days, I've been trying to get someone to hear me out. South African authorities are waiting to provide everything that is required to support this movie. If we can't get this cooperation from India, the film will no longer be shot here.

 (Hat tip to Deadline)

Weather delaying 'The Wolverine' filming until spring?

Filming on the anticipated sequel to Fox's "X-Men Origin: Wolverine" may not begin until next spring.

The first film debuted in 2009.

Deadline is reporting that while the studio had been eying a fall start-date, weather concerns in Japan have delayed matters. Star Hugh Jackman said in a June interview with Toronto radio station CHFI that filming was set to begin in October.

That same month, Fox signed director James Mangold ("Knight and Day," "3:10 to Yuma," "Walk the Line") to the project to replace Darren Aronofsky ("Black Swan"), who dropped out in March.

According to Deadline, the weather issues may lead to part of the filming being moved to Canada. Christopher McQuarrie's ("The Usual Suspects," "Valkyrie") script, as it stands now, is set mostly in Japan.

"X-Men Origins: Wolverine" hit theaters in 2009, spinning off of the successful "X-Men" trilogy, told the backstory of Logan/Wolverine (played by Jackman). That film was expected to be first of a number of films exploring the histories of various X-Men. The next was supposed to be "Magneto," but it was eventually reworked into June's "X-Men: First Class," a far superior film to "Wolverine."

'Taken 2' to start production in October

The sequel to the 2009 action thriller hit "Taken" will start production in October.

"Taken" opened in January 2009.

Comingsoon.net spoke with writer/producer Luc Besson ("From Paris With Love," "The Professional") about "Columbiana," which opens Friday, and the conversation led to an update on the forthcoming sequel.

Taken starred Liam Neeson as Bryan Mills, whose daughter (Maggie Grace) is abducted in Paris by a human-trafficking ring. A former government operative, Bryan wages a bloody battle with his daughter's captors to return her home safe.

According to Comingsoon, "Columbiana" director Olivier Megaton ("Transporter 3") will helm the sequel, taking over for Pierre Morel, with a script from Besson and Robert Mark Kamen, who penned the original.

Megaton is scouting locations in Los Angeles, where at least some of the filming will take place, the report continued. Besson also said that "everyone" is back for the sequel.

"Taken" was a solid thriller and one of the first hits of 2009 following its Jan. 30 release, earning $145 million at the domestic box office and $226 million worldwide.

Patrick Malahide is Balon Greyjoy in 'Game of Thrones'

The Greyjoy family continues to grow with the expanding cast of HBO's "Game of Thrones," as British actor Patrick Malahide will play Lord Balon Greyjoy.

Patrick Malahide

Balon, who rules over the Iron Islands, is father to Theon Greyjoy (Alfie Allen) and season two newcomer Yara Greyjoy (Gemma Whelan, "The Wolfman").

Malahide's credits include "Brideshead Revisited" and "Quills," as well as a recent stint on "Law & Order: UK."

Malahide joins other season two additions Michael McElhatton ("Fifty Dead Men Walking") as Roose Bolton, Robert Pugh ("Robin Hood," "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World") as Craster, Hannah Murray (the U.K. "Skins") as Gilly, Roy Dotrice ("Amadeus," "Beauty and the Beast") as Pyromancer Hallyne, Tom Wlaschiha ("Enemy at the Gates") as Jaqen H'gar, Liam Cunningham ("Camelot") as Davos Seaworth the Onion Knight, Stephen Dillane ("John Adams") as Stannis, Carice van Houten ("Repo Men," "Valkyrie") as Melisandre, Gwendoline Christie ("The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus") as Brienne and Natalie Dormer ("The Tudors") as Margaery Tyrell.

It was recently announced season two will be filmed in Croatia and Iceland as well as Belfast.

The first season was awarded Outstanding New Program by the Television Critics Association and also picked up 13 Emmy nominations, including Best Drama Series, Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister), Writing in a Drama Series and Direction in Single-Camera Series. The Emmys will be announced Sunday, Sept. 18.

'Ouija' joins Universal's board game scrap heap

It's been three weeks since Universal dropped its plans to adapt the board game Clue into a feature film, and now it appears the studio is boxing up its Ouija adaptation as well.

Ouija is the latest project to be scrapped.

Vulture is reporting the studio has put the project, which features producer Michael Bay ("Transformers") and director McG ("Charlie's Angels," "Terminator Salvation"), in turnaround.

According to the report, Ouija was part of a gigantic deal between Universal and Hasbro to develop up to six films based on the toy company's products, including Candy Land, Stretch Armstrong, Battleship and Clue.

Earlier this month, Universal dropped the Clue adaptation, although director Gore Verbinski remains on the project, which he is also set to produce. It hasn't been a good month for Verbinski, with Disney pulling the plug on his Lone Ranger project as well.

As for Ouija, McG is expected to shop the project around to other studios to find a new home.

Meanwhile, Vulture reports Universal is continuing to develop Candyland and Stretch Armstrong. "Battleship" is set for release next year, with the first teaser trailer hitting the web last week.

First teaser of 'The Hunger Games' to debut during MTV VMAs

Fans of Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games" will get their first taste of Lionsgate's film adaptation Sunday evening when lead actress Jennifer Lawrence unveils a clip during MTV VMAs telecast.

The film will debut March 23, 2012.

"The Hunger Games" is being directed by Gary Ross ("Seabiscuit," "Pleasantville") based on a screenplay from Bill Ray ("State of Play"). It is set for a March 23, 2012, release and is expected to be rated PG-13.

Lawrence ("Winter's Bone," "X-Men: First Class") plays Katniss Everdeen, who along with Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") are forced to enter a battle to the death with teenagers from the 12 districts of Panem.

The cast also includes Donald Sutherland ("The Mechanic") Lenny Kravitz ("Precious"), Woody Harrelson ("Zombieland"), Liam Hemsworth ("The Last Song"), Elizabeth Banks ("The Next Three Days"), Paula Malcomson ("Sons of Anarchy"), Wes Bentley ("American Beauty"), Stanley Tucci ("The Lovely Bones") and newcomer Willow Shields ("Beyond the Blackboard").

'Game of Thrones' season two will film in Croatia, Iceland

With its cast blossoming, the second season of HBO's "Game of Thrones" is expanding the scope of its settings as well.

The novel was published in 1998.

Entertainment Weekly is reporting that while the production will still be headquartered in Belfast, North Ireland, filming will expand to Croatia and Iceland. Season one's filming locations included Malta.

Season two will follow the second novel in George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy series, "A Clash of Kings." According to the report, Croatia will serve for the Eastern lands through which Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) travels, while Iceland will be home to Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and the rest of the Night's Watch as they travel north of the Wall.

While the series already boasted a large cast, season two adds Michael McElhatton ("Fifty Dead Men Walking") as Roose Bolton, Robert Pugh ("Robin Hood," "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World") as Craster, Hannah Murray (the U.K. "Skins") as Gilly, Roy Dotrice ("Amadeus," "Beauty and the Beast") as Pyromancer Hallyne, Tom Wlaschiha ("Enemy at the Gates") as Jaqen H'gar, Gemma Whelan ("The Wolfman") as Yara Greyjoy, Liam Cunningham ("Camelot") as Davos Seaworth the Onion Knight, Stephen Dillane ("John Adams") as Stannis, Carice van Houten ("Repo Men," "Valkyrie") as Melisandre, Gwendoline Christie ("The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus") as Brienne and Natalie Dormer ("The Tudors") as Margaery Tyrell.

The first season was awarded Outstanding New Program by the Television Critics Association. It also picked up 13 Emmy nominations, including Best Drama Series, Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister), Writing in a Drama Series and Direction in Single-Camera Series. The Emmys will be announced Sunday, Sept. 18.

Wachowskis, Tom Tykwer to start 'Cloud Atlas' next month

It's been three years since the Wachowski siblings' "Speed Racer" crashed and burned at the box office, but now they are ready to start filming their latest project "Cloud Atlas" next month with co-director Tom Tykwer.

"Cloud Atlas" was published in 2004.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the trio will begin filming at Germany's Studio Babelsberg in mid-September.

Based on the novel by David Mitchell, the movie will tell six stories in different times and places, ranging from 19th century Australia to post-apocalyptic Hawaii. The novel was originally published in 2004.

The film is set to star Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon and Jim Broadbent.

According to the report, Andy and Lana Wachowski ("The Matrix") and Tykwer ("Run Lola Run," "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer") will be filming simultaneously with the former handling the more futuristic settings while the latter shoots the period stories.

The Reporter quoted X Filme rep Stefan Ardnt, who said the production budget will be less than than the $100 million to $120 million previous reported.

'The Help' helps itself to the weekend box office crown

For the second week in a row, a bevy of newcomers crashed and burned at the U.S. box office, while last week's number two film, "The Help," rose to the top, continuing its impressive run.

"The Help" earned $16.3 million.

"The Help" scored $16.3 million over the weekend, according to studio estimates, falling only 21.4 percent from its debut, for a total of $71.8 million over 12 days. Made for a reported $25 million, the film has been of the few success stories of the late summer season.

Meanwhile, last week's number one film, "The Rise of the Planet of the Apes," swapped positions with "The Help," finishing its third weekend with $16.3 million for a total of $133 million.

Unfortunately for their rivals, "Rise" and "The Help" have been the only August releases to find any success at the box office.

Of the four new films to debut this weekend, "Spy Kids: All the Time in the World" fared the best with $12 million on a budget of $27 million. The fourth film in director Robert Rodriguez's children's series arrived eight years after the last installment and opened to little more than a third of what 2003's "Spy Kids 3D: Game Over" did. The long wait in between movies forced the introduction of new spy kids, while the earlier films' original audience is now either in high school or college.

The remake "Conan the Barbarian" likewise failed to find its original's audience, looting a paltry $10 million from the box office. The film had the largest budget--$90 million--of the weekend debuts, and therefore the most to prove and the most the lose.

"Fright Night," another 1980s remake, did little better, scoring only $7.9 million but with one third the budget.

Rounding out the newcomers, the romantic drama "One Day" barely make it into the weekend's top 10 with $5.1 million. It's budget is reported to be $15 million.

Among the rest, "The Smurfs" continued to produce strong returns, drawing $8 million in its fourth weekend for a total of $117 million. Last weekend's other movies--"Final Destination 5" and "30 Minutes or Less"--both dropped more than 50 percent after failing to impress during their debuts.

The weekend's top 10 films were as follows:

1. "The Help," $20,479,000 (Total: $71.8 million)
2. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," $16,300,000 (Total: $133.7 million)
3. "Sky Kids: All the Time in the World," $12,020,000 (New)
4. "Conan the Barbarian." $10,000,000 (New)
5. "The Smurfs," $8,000,000 (Total: $117.7 million)
6. "Fright Night," $7,900,000 (New)
7. "Final Destination 5," $18,400,000 ($32.3 million)
8. "30 Minutes or Less," $6,300,000 ($25.7 million)
9. "One Day," $5,128,000 (New)
10. "Crazy, Stupid, Love," $4,950,000 (Total: $64.4 million)