Release dates, titles announced for Peter Jackson's 'The Hobbit'

New Line Cinema, Warner Bros. Pictures and MGM announced today the titles and release dates for Peter Jackson’s two-film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Hobbit."

"The Hobbit" will hit theaters during
the holidays in 2012 and 2013.

The first film, titled “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” will be released on Dec. 14, 2012. The second film, titled “The Hobbit: There and Back Again,” is slated for release the following year, on Dec. 13, 2013.

Both films are set in Middle-earth 60 years before Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” which Jackson and his filmmaking team brought to the big screen in the blockbuster trilogy that culminated with the Oscar-winning “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.” The adventure of “The Hobbit” follows the journey of title character Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug.

Under Jackson’s direction, both movies are being shot consecutively in digital 3D using the latest camera and stereo technology. Filming is taking place at Stone Street Studios, Wellington, and on location around New Zealand.

Ron Howard gives 'Dark Tower' update

The rumors have been thick around the delayed production of "The Dark Tower," an ambitious project to adapt Stephen King's epic novel series into a film/television hybrid.

Ron Howard

The news broke earlier this month that the start date has been pushed back from this fall to next year, and producer Ron Howard spoke with Entertainment Weekly about the latest.

"We had to pull back to our September start date due to budget delays and ongoing story development and logistical issues, but 'Dark Tower' is moving forward," Howard said. "“We’re thinking of starting in early spring now."

He went on to say that despite reports to the contrary, actor Javier Bardem ("No Country for Old Men") has not signed onto the project to play Roland Deschain.

"I can’t really say who’ll be in it yet, but Javier Bardem has shown a great deal of interest," Howard told Entertainment Weekly. "We’ll know by the end of the summer, when our flashing green light goes solid."

Peter Jackson answering fans' 'Hobbit' questions

Director Peter Jackson on the set of "The Hobbit."

"The Hobbit" director Peter Jackson, who has been keeping fans abreast of the production's progress via Facebook, agreed to answer 20 questions from fans and began his countdown yesterday with one concerning the White Council attacking Dol Guldor.

First though, he answered an "unofficial question" about the process.

"I've been very busy recently, not just with shooting, but with location scouting and prep work during our days off, so I've found it hard to get to the questions," Jackson said. "However, today I have enjoyed sitting down and reading through them all. I'll get started and continue to answer what seem to be the most popular questions during the next few weeks (as well as some one-off, quirky ones!)."

As for the council, Jackson had this to say: "I'm not going to say just what and when, but I will confirm that both the White Council and Dol Guldur will feature in the movies. And not just in one scene either. Just how to visualise it has been a challenge, but fortunately Alan Lee and John Howe went crazy with ideas, and it should look pretty cool."

Paget Brewster in, Rachel Nichols out for 'Criminal Minds'

Paget Brewster (second from left) will be returning to "Criminal Minds."

The old gang should be getting back together for the next season of "Criminal Minds," with Paget Brewster officially on board to return as Emily Prentiss.

Brewster's character left the show late this season after the actress' contract was modified to reduce the number of episodes she would appear in. Brewster filmed a pilot for NBC's "My Life as an Experiment," but the show wasn't picked up, leaving ABC Studios, which produces "Criminal Minds," the option to bring her back.

Deadline broke the story yesterday that the studio had in fact done so, while also deciding not to pick up an option for Rachel Nichols, whose Ashley Seaver was introduced this year, for next season.

Filming begins on Bryan Singer's 'Jack the Giant Killer'

New Line Cinema and Legendary Pictures have announced principal photography is underway in London on director Bryan Singer’s 3D action adventure “Jack the Giant Killer,” with Nicholas Hoult in the title role of Jack.

Bryan Singer

“Jack the Giant Killer” tells the story of an ancient war that is reignited when a young farmhand unwittingly opens a gateway between our world and a fearsome race of giants. Unleashed on the Earth for the first time in centuries, the giants strive to reclaim the land they once lost, forcing the young man, Jack, into the battle of his life to stop them. Fighting for a kingdom, its people, and the love of a brave princess, he comes face to face with the unstoppable warriors he thought only existed in legend — and gets the chance to become a legend himself.

Orlando Bloom riding back to Middle Earth in 'The Hobbit'

Orlando Bloom as Legolas in "The Lord of the Rings"

Orlando Bloom's Legolas played a vital role in Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, and the pair will soon be reunited for "The Hobbit."

Jackson made the announcement today on his Facebook page, saying, "Ten years ago, Orlando Bloom created an iconic character with his portrayal of Legolas. I'm excited to announce today that we'll be revisiting Middle Earth with him once more. I’m thrilled to be working with Orlando again."

The original trilogy, filmed together, was released over the holiday seasons of 2001, 2002 and 2003.

"Funny thing is, I look older—and he doesn’t! I guess that's why he makes such a wonderful elf," the director added.

It should be noted that Legolas did not appear in J.R.R. Tolkien's original novel, which Jackson is adapting into two movies. It is not clear how large a role the elf will play.

'Akira' loses its director

Little more than a week after actor Keanu Reeves reportedly turned down an offer to take the lead in the live-action adaptation of "Akira," the film project is losing its director.

"Akira" is without a director.

Deadline is reporting today that director Albert Hughes ("The Book of Eli") is walking away from the project over "amicable creative differences."

The report goes on to say the film remains on the fast track at Warner Bros. and a new director should be announced soon.

Based on the Japanese manga series, the film is said to be moving the action from Neo-Tokyo to New Manhattan based on a script most recently polished by "Harry Potter" screenwriter Steve Kloves. The story follows Kaneda, the leader of a motorcycle gang who tries to save his friend Tetsuo from a military experiment gone awry.

Prior to Reeves supposed involvement, reports came out in March that Hughes had shortlisted the candidates for Kaneda to Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake and Joaquin Phoenix, while Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield and James McAvoy were in the running for Tetsuo.

"Akira" is best known in the U.S. for the 1988 anime film adaptation.

Toby Jones, newcomer Amber Chaney join 'The Hunger Games'

While the major characters have already been cast, news continues to filter out from the set of "The Hunger Games" on the latest additions to the the production.

Toby Jones

First up is Toby Jones ("The Rite," "Your Highness") as announcer Claudius Templesmith, who provides blow-by-blow commentary for the thousands watching the Hunger Games live on television throughout Panem. The games are an annual fight to death involving two children chosen from each of the 12 districts of the country.

Jones is also known for voicing Dobby the house elf in the "Harry Potter" films.

The other casting announced this week was newcomer Amber Chaney, who will be the Avox girl Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") encounters in the Capitol. Avoxes are people punished by the government by having their tongues removed and then forced into servitude.

Amber Chaney

Chaney has appeared mostly in television, including "Somebodies" and "Meet the Browns."

They join 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").

"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.

Lenny Kravitz will be Cinna in "The Hunger Games"

"American Woman" singer Lenny Kravitz is heading to Panem to portray Cinna in the film adaptation of "The Hunger Games."

Lenny Kravitz

The singer had a role in 2009's "Precious," and will appear in two other films in 2012, "The Blind Bastard Club" and "Selma."

Cinna is Katniss Everdeen's (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") stylist who is tasked with creating costumes for the tribute to wear at the public events leading up to the games. Unlike most capitol citizens, he appears almost normal, forsaking the usual over-the-top clothing and makeup.

His compatriot Portia, who is Petta Mellark's (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") stylist, was cast yesterday with Latarsha Rose ("CSI: Miami, "Bones") landing the role. Brooke Bundy ("Without") will be Octavia, a member of his team, with Venia and Flavius yet to be filled.

Cinna was the final major character to be cast for "The Hunger Games," which is based on the first book on Suzanne Collins' best-selling trilogy.

Kravitz joins 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").

I have to say, of all the casting decisions thus far, this is the most far out there. I'm betting nobody predicted it for sure. I personally was hoping Aaron Eckhart ("The Dark Knight") would get the role, but I'll give this one a wait-and-see approach. It reminds me of when Mos Def was cast as Ford Prefect in "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," which turned out to be an inspired decision.

Filming is underway on the adaptation, which 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.

'The Hunger Games' film casts Octavia and Portia

Brooke Bundy

Octavia and Portia are the latest characters to be cast in the upcoming film adaptation of "The Hunger Games."

Octavia, a member of Katniss Everdeen's (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") styling team, will be played by newcomer Brooke Bundy ("Without"). Meanwhile, Latarsha Rose, who has had guests spots on such shows as "CSI: Miami, "The Cape" and "Bones," will be Portia, who is Petta Mellark's (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") stylist.

"The Hunger Games," based on the novel by Suzanne Collins, follows Katniss and Peeta as they are chosen to participate in an annual fight to death involving two children chosen from each of the 12 districts of Panem.

Latarsha Rose

Both Octavia and Portia are citizens of the capital and notable for their outlandish attire; Octavia is described as having dyed her skin pea green.

The pair join 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").

The film will be 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.

Script still in the works for "Star Trek" sequel

Chris Pine as Captain James T. Kirk

The script for the anticipated sequel to J.J. Abrams' "Star Trek" has been outlined and is awaiting the director's approval.

Co-writer Roberto Orci spoke with TrekMovie, saying, "Just been waiting for JJ to be free to really decide if he likes the story and hear his suggestions before we finish the script. Once he says go, we’ll have it in no time. Meanwhile, our outline is detailed enough (70+ pages!) to do some prep."

Orci is writig the script along with Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof. Abrams, who directed the 2009 film, has not confirmed he will be in the captain's chair for the sequel. The movie is set for a June 29, 2012 release.

"Star Trek" grossed $257 million domestically and $385 million worldwide, by far the largest gross of any "Trek" film.

Chris Vance is Cinemax's 'Transporter'

Chris Vance

Frank Martin's career as a transporter continues as Cinemax is planning a 12-episode series based on the film franchise created by Luc Besson.

Deadline reported yesterday actor Chris Vance ("Prison Break," "Burn Notice") has been cast as Frank in the upcoming series, taking over for Jason Statham from the "Transporter" films. Additionally, Hungarian actress Andrea Osvart ("Spy Game") will be Carla, a former CIA agent and Frank's handler.

Andrea Osvart

As the title would suggest, Frank is a professional transporter. If you need something sent quickly and discreetly, he is your man. He just has three rules: Never change the deal, no names and never open the package.

"The Transporter" raced into theaters in 2002, followed by "Transporter 2" in 2005 and "Transporter 3" in 2008. Besson and Robert Mark Kamen wrote all three films. Besson will executive produce the television series.

The film franchise was solid popcorn fun, even though the writers ignored the laws of physics more often than they observed them. With the right scripts, this could be translate well into an action series, providing they have a large enough budget for the car chases and explosions that make a Luc Besson production a Luc Besson production.

First look at Tom Hardy as Bane in 'The Dark Knight Rises'

Tom Hardy as Bane in "The Dark Knight Rises"

Principal photography began this week on Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ "The Dark Knight Rises," the conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy.

Leading the cast, Academy Award winner Christian Bale ("The Fighter") again plays the dual role of Bruce Wayne and Batman. The film also stars Anne Hathaway ("Love and Other Drugs") as Selina Kyle/Catwoman, Tom Hardy ("Inception") as Bane, Marion Cotillard ("La Vie en Rose") as Miranda Tate and Joseph Gordon-Levitt ("Inception") as John Blake.

Returning to the main cast are Michael Caine ("The Cider House Rules") as Alfred, Gary Oldman as  Commissioner Gordon and Morgan Freeman (“Million Dollar Baby”) as Lucius Fox.

According to the studios' release, Nolan is utilizing IMAX cameras even more extensively than he did on "The Dark Knight." The screenplay for "The Dark Knight Rises" was written by Christopher Nolan and Jonathan Nolan based on a story from Christopher Nolan and David S. Goyer.

Warner Bros. released the first photo of Hardy as the villainous Bane (shown above) through a viral Twitter account. In the comics, Bane is one Batman's most dangerous enemies, possessing a mind for strategic planning in addition to the super-human strength he gains from the drug, Venom. He once broke the crime fighter's back, forcing him into retirement.

Unfortunately, Bane was portrayed by Jeep Swenson in 1997's "Batman and Robin" as a mindless thug working for Poison Ivy (Uma Thorman), just one of the many crimes committed by that film. Swenson died later that same year.

Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa to pen "Carrie" remake for MGM, Screen Gems

It's hard to think of high school proms and not for at least a moment, recall Sissy Spacek covered in pig's blood in the film adaptation of Stephen King's "Carrie."

Well, MGM and Screen Gems will be attempting to recreate those memories with a remake of the classic horror film and have brought in Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa to write the script.

"Carrie" began scaring audiences in 1976

Deadline is reporting that Aguirre-Sacasa, who mostly recently rewrote the "Spider-Man" musical, will stay more faithful to King's book, comparing it to Joel and Ethan Coen's work on "True Grit."

Aguirre-Sacasa, a comic book writer, wrote the graphic novel adaptation of King's "The Stand."

Meanwhile, Entertainment Weekly spoke with King on the proposed remake, and he didn't sound overly thrilled.

“The real question is why, when the original was so good?" EW quoted King. "I mean, not 'Casablanca,' or anything, but a really good horror-suspense film, much better than the book. Piper Laurie really got her teeth into the bad-mom thing."

He did add that he could "get behind it" if David Lynch ("Mullholland Dr.," "Twin Peaks," "Dune") or David Cronenberg ("The Dead Zone," "The Fly," "A History of Violence") was involved.

For fear of sounding like a broken record, I'll skip my usual speech about remakes and simply ask why? No, really, I want to know, because I have no idea. Besides, didn't they already try this will the ill-conceived "The Rage: Carrie 2" in 1999?

Arnold Schwarzenegger puts career back on hold following scandal

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger, who it was recently revealed fathered a child with a member of his staff, announced through his lawyer that he is pulling back from the plethora of movie commitments he has made since leaving political office.

"At the request of Arnold Schwarzenegger, we asked Creative Artists Agency to inform all his motion picture projects currently under way or being negotiated to stop planning until further notice," his lawyer said in a statement.

"Gov. Schwarzenegger is focusing on personal matters and is not willing to commit to any production schedules or timelines. This includes "Cry Macho, the "Terminator" franchise and other projects under consideration. We will resume discussions when Gov. Schwarzenegger decides."

Last week producer Megan Ellison and her Annapurna Films topped the bidding for the rights to make two new films in the “The Terminator” franchise.

Pacificor, which bought the rights to the franchise in a bankruptcy auction in February 2010, was shopping the project around with Schwarzenegger and director Justin Lin ("Fast Five") attached. The company bought the rights to the franchise in a bankruptcy auction in February 2010.

'Titanic' to sail again in 3D on sinking's 100th anniversary

Who said the ship could only sink once?

Paramount Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox and Lightstorm Entertainment jointly announced today that James Cameron’s “Titanic” will be re-­‐released worldwide on April 6, 2012.

"Titanic" first sailed into theaters in 1997

The release, which marks the 100th anniversary of the Titanic setting sail (April 10), will present the film in 3D for the first time ever.

Written, directed and produced by Cameron, “Titanic” is the second highest grossing movie of all time. It is one of only three films to have received a record 11 Academy Awards® including Best Picture and Best Director.

"There's a whole generation that's never seen ‘Titanic’ as it was meant to be seen, on the big screen," Cameron said. "And this will be ‘Titanic’ as you've never seen it before, digitally re-mastered at 4K and painstakingly converted to 3D. With the emotional power intact and the images more powerful than ever, this will be an epic experience for fans and newcomers alike."

“This new presentation of Paramount’s top-­grossing film is particularly special because 2012 is the 100th anniversary of our studio. Paramount has had the pleasure of introducing audiences to some of the all-­time classics of cinema during that century of moviemaking and we cannot think of a better way to mark the occasion than with this re-­release of ‘Titanic’,” said Brad Grey, chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures.

“Our 30-­plus year relationship with Jim Cameron and Lightstorm has been enormously rewarding, from ‘Aliens’ to ‘Avatar’, and the global phenomenon of ‘Titanic’ remains one of the greatest sources of pride in our history," said Fox Filmed Entertainment Chairmen and CEOs, Jim Gianopulos and Tom Rothman. "We are pleased to allow a new generation of audiences to experience the film in its brilliant digital restoration in 3D.”

Do we really need "Titanic" in 3D? No. Will Cameron make it looks as good as it could be? Almost certainly. More than any other director or producer out there, Cameron can make 3D work. Just look what he did with "Avatar," a visual treat nobody has come even close to since.

Stephen Fry joins Peter Jackson's 'The Hobbit'

"The Hobbit" director Peter Jackson and Conan Stevens

Peter Jackson, as he has been wont to do since filming began on the two-part "Hobbit" film, updated fans on the latest casting news Wednesday, announcing Stephen Fry ("Bones," "V for Vendetta") will be joining the production along with two others.

"We are thrilled to confirm that Stephen Fry will be playing The Master of Laketown," Jackson posted on his Facebook page. "I've known Stephen for several years, and we're developing a DAMBUSTERS movie together. In addition to his writing skills, he's a terrific actor and will create a very memorable Master for us."

Stephen Fry

"The Master's conniving civil servant, Alfrid will be played by Ryan Gage," Jackson continued. "Ryan is a great young actor who we originally cast in a small role, but we liked him so much, we promoted him to the much larger Alfrid part."

"Last, and certainly not least, is Conan Stevens, who will be playing an Orc called Azog (Orcs are never called Roger or Dennis for some strange reason).  And yes that's his name—Conan! Isn't that cool? Azog is played by Conan!"

Jackson included a photo of Stevens (shown above), saying , "I'm pretty tall, probably at least 6'5" or 6'6" I would guess, so that gives you some clue how tall Conan is!"

In addition to the casting news, Jackson also announced filming would soon go on a brief hiatus.

"As we near the end of our first shooting block (we have a break in less than three weeks to get some editing and visual effects work done, plus prepare for very big scenes coming up), we are looking at characters featuring in sequences that take place a little later in the story," Jackson said.

Entertainment Weekly provides first glance of Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen

When Jennifer Lawrence ("Winter's Bone") was cast as Catniss Everdeen in the upcoming film adaptation of Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games," the backlash from fans online was strong enough to spur the author herself to come to the decision's defense.

Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen

Lawrence didn't look the part. She was blond. She was too old. Too white.

Well, Entertainment Weekly has revealed the first photo of Lawrence in character as a preview of its latest issue set to hits shelves Thursday.

I have to say, while I was not against the pick to start with, I'm impressed with the look presented in  the photo. I can see Katniss, or at least how I saw her to be. And that's always the problem with translating words into movies. Everyone has their own vision of what they read.

As for Lawrence's ability to capture the rest of Katniss, Collins has already given her opinion, so I'll leave that part alone for now.

What do you think of the photo? Do you see Katniss?

Filming begins on Tim Burton's 'Dark Shadows'

Filming has begun on Tim Burton's film adaptation of the Gothic soap opera "Dark Shadows starring Johnny Depp.

Johnanthan Frid

Warner Bros. issued a press release today about the film, which will be shot entirely in England.

The original series ran on ABC from 1966 to 1971 and featured a wide variety of supernatural storylines, including vampires, witches, time travel and parallel universes. It's most famous character was Barnabas Collins (Johnathan Frid), who will be played by Depp in the Burton's film.

Warner Bros. provided the following plot synopsis for the film:

In the year 1752, Joshua and Naomi Collins, with young son Barnabas, set sail from Liverpool, England to start a new life in America. But even an ocean was not enough to escape the mysterious curse that has plagued their family. Two decades pass and Barnabas (Johnny Depp) has the world at his feet—or at least the town of Collinsport, Maine. The master of Collinwood Manor, Barnabas is rich, powerful and an inveterate playboy…until he makes the grave mistake of breaking the heart of Angelique Brouchard (Eva Green). A witch, in every sense of the word, Angelique dooms him to a fate worse than death: turning him into a vampire, and then burying him alive.

Two centuries later, Barnabas is inadvertently freed from his tomb and emerges into the very changed world of 1972. He returns to Collinwood Manor to find that his once-grand estate has fallen into ruin. The dysfunctional remnants of the Collins family have fared little better, each harboring their own dark secrets. Matriarch Elizabeth Collins Stoddard (Michelle Pfeiffer) has called upon live-in psychiatrist, Dr. Julia Hoffman (Helena Bonham Carter), to help with her family troubles.

Also residing in the manor is Elizabeth's ne'er-do-well brother, Roger Collins (Jonny Lee Miller); her rebellious teenage daughter Carolyn Stoddard (Chloe Moretz); and Roger's precocious 10-year-old son, David Collins (Gulliver McGrath). The mystery extends beyond the family, to caretaker Willie Loomis, played by Jackie Earle Haley, and David's new nanny, Victoria Winters, played by Bella Heathcote.

This is not the first "Dark Shadows" remake. NBC hosted a short-lived series in 1991, but it was canceled after only one season. A pilot was filmed for a second revival in 2004 for The WB, but it wasn't picked up.

Between its very successful original run and years of repeats on Syfy and other networks, "Dark Shadows" has a solid following, and the series is now available on DVD. As with most remakes, however, it's unclear how fan will treat a big-budget remake.

Keanu Reeves turns down role in 'Akira'

Actor Keanu Reeves will reportedly not star in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the anime "Akira."

Keanu Reeves

Digital Spy is reporting Reeves turned down the role of Kaneda, the leader of a motorcycle gang who tries to save his friend Tetsuo from a military experiment gone awry.

The remake is set to be directed by Albert Hughes ("The Book of Eli").

In March, it was reported Hughes had shortlisted the candidates for Kaneda to Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake and Joaquin Phoenix, while Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield and James McAvoy were in the running for Tetsuo.

The 1988 anime film directed by Katsuhiro Otomo was based on the six-volume manga from Katsuhiro Otom.

The live-action film moves the action from Neo-Tokyo to New Manhattan. "Harry Potter" scribe Steve Kloves was the last writer to take a swipe at the script.

Seth MacFarlane to bring 'The Flintstone's to the 21st century...sort of

The new version of "The Flintstones" will debut in 2013.

It's Yabba Dabba Doo time!

FOX announced today "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane will be updating "The Flintstones" for prime-time television.

According to Deadline, the project will be involve a partnership between 20th Century Fox Television and Warner Bros. Television with production beginning this fall for a 2013 premiere on FOX.

"'The Flintstones' are among the funniest and most beloved characters in television history, and we can’t wait to introduce them to a whole new generation on Fox,” Deadline quoted Kevin Reilly, FOX president of entertainment. “FOX has long been home to iconic families like the Simpsons and the Griffins, so I have no doubt that the Flintstones and the Rubbles are going to fit right in on our air.”

"The Flintstones" is about as classic a cartoon as they come. The original was also a prime-time series, running from 1960 to 1966 on ABC. Much of the humor came from seeing prehistoric versions of everyday items, such as the wooly mammoth vacuum cleaner and a bird serving as a record player.

I was a fan of MacFarlane's "Family Guy" during its original run, but soon lost interest after its revival, only dipping my toe in occasionally over the past several seasons. I think "The Flintstones," done the right way, could be a hit once again, both in ratings and creatively.

I am a little worried by a quote from Deadline, in which MacFarlane jokes, "I think America is finally ready for an animated sitcom about a fat stupid guy with a wife who’s too good for him." He's obviously referring to "Family Guy," and I wonder if he can separate that world from what he would create with "The FTlintstones." I really hope Fred Flintstone doesn't become Peter Griffin in the stone age.

Additionally, and this may just be me, but I grew up watching "The Flintstones" is the mid- to late-1980s, when much of the 1960s technology being spoofed in the cartoon was outdated. It was more or less a period piece on two levels. Now, obviously that's now how it was originally intended, but I'm curious if updating the concept to modern day with smartphones and laptops will be provide the same humor.

Ubisoft planning film adaptations for 'Assassins Creed,' 'Splinter Cell' and 'Ghost Recon'

Variety is reporting that game maker Ubisoft is planning film adaptations of three of its most popular franchises:  "Assassins Creed," "Splinter Cell" and "Ghost Recon."

Ubisoft Motion Pictures was launched in January to handle film and TV productions.

"Our strategy is not to diversify but to bolster the appeal of our franchises -- that's why we want to make sure our films will reflect the brands accurately and consolidate our fan base while expanding beyond the games' primary target audience," Variety quoted Jean de Rivieres, senior VP of international marketing and distribution.

 He went on to say the company is planning on meeting with studios in June on the projects.

"Assassin's Creed" follows the ages long conflict between the Templars and Assassins, mixing history and science-fiction throughout the three-game (and soon to be four-game) series.

"Splinter Cell" and "Ghost Recon" are most military action games based on the works of author Tom Clancy.

Milla Jovovich reveals 'Resident Evil 5' title will be 'Retribution'

Actress Milla Jovovich, who appeared as Alice in all four "Resident Evil" films, has been talking up a storm about the forthcoming fifth installment, which she revealed will be called "Retribution."

"Afterlife" was the highest grossing
film so far in the franchise.

"I think its called RE: Retribution, but i have to ask paul 2 b sure," she posted on Twitter, referring to husband Paul W.S. Anderson, who directed each of the films so far.

Jovovich also noted the film will take place in Japan, posting, "I pray 4 japan everyday and i can't wait 2 go there and shoot the nxt RE!"

She continued that Anderson is still working on the script and hinted that characters will be returning. "Its gonna b CRAZY! N fans r gonna luv who we bring back!" she posted.

We already know Jill Valentine will be returning based on the extra scene following the credits of "Resident Evil: Afterlife" and confirmed by actress Sienna Guillory, again on Twitter.

As I said before, I hope will finally learn the fate of the young Angela (Sophie Vavasseur), who like Jill vanished sometime between the second and third films.

The "Resident Evil" films have been a guilty pleasure for me, and I look forward to number five.

Production on 'The Dark Tower' pushed back to 2012

Production has been pushed back on the Universal's adaptation of Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" series until at least next year.

The 7th book was published in 2004.

According to Deadline, production was set to begin as early as this summer, but now that won't happen until February 2012.

It was reported last week the studio was questioning the ambitious project's budget was asking producers to trim it down.

In September, Universal and NBC Universal Television announced the seven-novel series would be adapted into three movies, with a television miniseries in between each of the films. Javier Bardem ("No Country for Old Men") has signed on to play Roland Deschain in the adaptation, produced by Ron Howard and Akiva Goldsman.

"The Dark Tower" series began with the "The Gunslinger" in 1982. The seventh novel was published in 2004, with elements of the series permeating into King's other works and vice versa, such as "Hearts in Atlantis" and "Salem's Lot."

There's no denying this was an ambitious plan, and with Comcast soon taking over the studio, perhaps they are getting cold feet. The past few weeks have been up and down for sure, first snagging its lead and then getting mired down in budget issues.

Aaron Eckhart, AnnaSophia Robb and Sean Bean on the hunt for 'Pan'

Note: This post was lost during Blogger's outage Thursday and Friday and had to be rewritten.

Well, this isn't exactly what J. M. Barrie had in mind when he created the boy who never grew up.

Aaron Eckhart

Screen Daily is reporting actors Aaron Eckhart ("The Dark Knight"), AnnaSophia Robb ("Race to Witch Mountain") and Sean Bean ("Game of Thrones") have signed onto a dark retelling of the "Peter Pan" tale.

According to the report, the story follows Hook (Eckhart), a former detective tracking down a "childlike kidnapper," presumably Pan. Wendy (Robb) is the kidnapper's only surviving victim who leaves a sanitarium to help Hook in his pursuit. Rounding out the known characters is Smee (Bean), the lead detective on the case and a friend of Hook's.

Eckhart received several critics' associations nominations and awards for his latest work in last year's "Rabbit Hole."

AnnaSophia Robb

Robb, who was most recently seen in "Soul Surfer," made her film debut in 2005's "Because of Winn-Dixie" and followed it up with roles in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "Bridge to Terabithia."

Bean, who has a long and successful career including roles in the Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings," "Golden Eye" and "Equilibrium," can be seen in HBO's currently running series "Game of Thrones," based on the novel by George R. R. Martin.

Ben Hibon is set to direct based on a script from Ben Magid.

NBC renews 'Chuck' for a fifth season

Chuck (Zachary Levi) and Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski) in NBC's "Chuck"

The spy with a computer in his head has dodged another bullet. NBC made its official today, announcing “Chuck” will be back for a fifth season.

According to multiple reports, the fifth season will consist of 13 episodes and will be the series' last.

“Chuck vs. The Cliffhanger,” the fourth season finale--which could have easily been the series finale--will air Monday, May 16, at 8 p.m.

NBC also recently renewed “Parenthood” and “Harry's Law,” while canceling “The Event.” Also notable, the network passed on David E. Kelley's “Wonder Woman” pilot.

“Chuck” is the second low-rated but critically appreciated show on my weekly schedule to get picked up despite the odds, the other being FOX's “Fringe.”

The quirky comedy-that-could features Zachary Levy as the title character, who after getting all of the CIA's secrets uploaded into his head, becomes a...unique spy.

“Chuck” has now fought off cancelation each of the last three season, most notably after its sophomore season when it was helped by the “Save Chuck” campaign, which urged fans to visit Subway restaurants, a product placement sponsor, the day of the finale. I honestly had given up most hope of renewal this season after the show's ratings fell to historic lows over the past several months.

Because of its multiple close-calls, “Chuck” has already had four or five episodes which could have served as a series finale (including Monday's episode), so should today's reports prove true, they will have all the practice they need to wrap up the story right. And honestly, having a firm number of episode will probably be for the best, so they don't have to adjust mid-stream on how far they need to stretch their stories.

Megan Ellison purchases film rights to 'The Terminator' franchise

"The Terminator" hit theaters in 1984.

Producer Megan Ellison and her Annapurna Films topped the bidding for the rights to make two new films in the “The Terminator” franchise.

According to Deadline, which broke the story early this morning, the bidding came down to Ellison and Lionsgate, although the final price is not yet known.

Pacificor, which bought the rights to the franchise in a bankruptcy auction in February 2010, was shopping the project around with Arnold Schwarzenegger and director Justin Lin ("Fast Five") attached. The company bought the rights to the franchise in a bankruptcy auction in February 2010.

Ellison produced three films last year--“Main Street,” “Passion Play” and “Waking Madison”--and was executive producer on the Academy Award-nominated “True Grit.” She is the daughter of billionaire Larry Ellison, co-founder and CEO of Oracle.

Andrew Niccol will direct Stephenie Meyer's 'The Host'

Niccol also wrote the screenplay.

Director Andrew Niccol will helm the film adaptation of author Stephenie Meyer's “The Host.”

Niccol has already written the screenplay for the film, which will star Saoirse Ronan (“Hanna,” “Atonement”) as Melanie Stryder, who must fight to maintain her own identity when her body is invaded by an alien presence.

Niccol penned the scripts for such films as “The Truman Show,” “The Terminal,” “Gattaca,” “Lord of War” and “S1m0ne.” He also directed the latter three films.

His next project is “Now,” another film he wrote and directed, in which humanity's aging gene is turned off, sparking fears of overpopulation and turning time itself into a commodity to be bought and sold.

Meyer is best known for her “Twilight” series, the film adaptations of which have grossed $788 million so far at the domestic box office with the two-part "Breaking Dawn" still to come.

Cato, Clove and District 10 castings complete 'The Hunger Games' reaping

The reaping for "The Hunger Games" is now complete.

The reaping is complete.

The final two districts have chosen their tributes for “The Hunger Games:” Cato and Clove from District 2 and the unnamed pair from District 10.

Alexander Ludwig

“The Hunger Games” is Lionsgate's adaptation of Suzanne Collins' best selling novel about an annual fight to death involving two children chosen from each of the 12 districts of Panem. The story follows Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") from District 12 who are chosen to enter the 74th games.

Alexander Ludwig (“Race to Witch Mountain,” “The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising”) will be Cato and Isabelle Fuhrman (“Orphan,” “Hounddog”) is Clove, two of Catniss and Peeta's most fearsome adversaries in the games. District 2 has a close relationship with the Capitol, and trains its tributes beforehand, a practice traditionally banned. Therefore, Cato and Clove, along with their counterparts from District 1, are known as careers.

Isabelle Fuhrman

On the other hand, the tributes from District 10 (newcomers Jeremy Marinas and Dakota Hood) are minor characters, with only the boy tribute getting a passing mention due to him having a lame leg.

The newest tributes join Leven Rambin, Jack Quaid, Amandla Stenberg, Dayo Okeniyi, Ian Nelson,  Kalia Prescott, Jacqueline Emerson, Chris Mark, Ethan Jamieson, Tara Macken, Sam Ly, Leigha Hancock, Samuel Tan, MacKenzie Lintz, Imanol Yepez-Frias and Annie Thurman.

The film will be 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.

Back in business

Unless you have a blog with Google's Blogger service, you probably didn't notice that the system was having major issues over the past 48 or so hours.

First we got locked out, then our blogs reset back to Wednesday morning, deleting all posts made after that time. Well, now we're back again, although not all of my missing posts are back. I'll try to get them back up as time allows.

It's been a busy Friday in the entertainment work, so enough of this. Let's get back to work.

Woody Harrelson is Haymitch Abernathy in 'The Hunger Games'

"The Hunger Games" casting news has been non-stop for the past few weeks, but Lionsgate dropped a big one Tuesday night, announcing Woody Harrelson is joining the production as Haymitch Abernathy.

Woody Harrelson

Haymitch is a former victor of the Games, a battle to the death involving two children from each of the 12 districts of Panem. He is assigned to mentor Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") when they are chosen to represent District 12.

In Suzanne Collins' best-selling novels, Haymitch is described as a "paunchy, middle-aged man" and spends most of his waking hours drunk.

"Haymitch is such an unforgettable character: funny cranky outrageous, sarcastic, impatient, biting but ultimately kind. I'm so grateful we have Woody Harrelson to play him. I cant wait for us to get to work," director Gary Ross said.

Harrelson, who has had a long and successful career, was most recently seen in "Zombieland" and "2012."

I have to admit, Harrelson never crossed my mind when thinking of possible actors for Haymitch, but in hindsight, it seems a great decision. Although Jeffrey Dean Morgan ("Watchmen," "The Losers") had been at the top of my personal list, I can't say I'm disappointed with this outcome.

Harrelson joins 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").

The film will be directed by 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. 

Stanley Tucci joins 'The Hunger Games' as Caesar Flickerman

"The Hunger Games" has its flamboyant host, Caesar Flickerman, with Lionsgate announcing actor Stanley Tucci as the latest to join the adaptation of Suzanne Collins' novel trilogy.

Stanley Tucci

Caesar is famous throughout Panem for his colorful hair and his lively interviews of the tributes who each year are chosen by lottery to play in the Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death in which there can only be one winner.

"The Hunger Games" follows Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia"), the tributes from District 12, who must fight in the 74th games along with 22 others.

Tucci will next be seen in Marvel's "Captain America: The First Avenger." While many of his roles have ventured on the comedic side, he was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2010 for his work in "The Lovely Bones," in which he played a serial killer.

I'll be honest, Tucci is not how I pictured Flickerman, who I saw more as Gilderoy Lockhart, as played by Kenneth Branagh in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets." Still, there's no denying Tucci's talent, and it will be interesting to see what he brings to the role.

Tucci joins joins Liam Hemsworth ("The Last Song"), Elizabeth Banks ("The Next Three Days"), Paula Malcomson ("Sons of Anarchy"), Wes Bentley ("American Beauty") and newcomer Willow Shields ("Beyond the Blackboard").

The film will be 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.

Saoirse Ronan will not be heading to Middle Earth for 'The Hobbit'

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan will not be starring in Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkein's "The Hobbit."

The actress, who most recently starred in "Hanna," told Deadline in an interview published today that she will instead concentrate on other projects. It was announced last week Ronan will play the lead in the upcoming adaptation of author Stephenie Meyer's "The Host."

 "I would have been tied up for quite a long period of time and there's a lot of projects in the meantime that are also really interesting and I'd like to be a part of," Ronan said in the interview.

Filming on the two-part "Hobbit" adaptation is currently underway in New Zealand.

'The Dark Tower' production in budget trouble?

Digital Spy is reporting trouble in "The Dark Tower" camp, with pre-production staff being put on hiatus while Universal Pictures discusses the ambitious project's budget.

"The Dark Tower" spans seven novels.

In September, Universal and NBC Universal Television announced Stephen King's seven-novel series would be adapted into three movies, with a television miniseries in between each of the films.

Just two weeks ago it was announced Javier Bardem ("No Country for Old Men") had signed on to play Roland Deschain in the adaptation, produced by Ron Howard and Akiva Goldsman.

According to Digital Spy, all parties involved are in talks over how to lower the project's budget, although Universal is denying reports that it will be put into turnaround. The first film was set to open in theater on May 17, 2013, but regardless of the outcome of these talks, that date is now in serious doubt.

"The Dark Tower" series began with the "The Gunslinger" in 1982. The seventh novel was published in 2004, with elements of the series permeating into King's other works and vice versa, such as "Hearts in Atlantis" and "Salem's Lot."

This was always a very ambitious proposition, combining films and televisions series in a way untested and untried. Perhaps with the initial success of HBO's "Game of Thrones," based on the sprawling novel by George R.R. Martin, sticking to television would be the correct route here as well.

As it stands now, this is a breaking story, and we'll have to wait and see how the dust settles.

District 9 reaps its tributes for 'The Hunger Games'

The reaping is almost complete with the addition of District 9.

Although fans of Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games" never discover the specialty of District 9, we do now know who will be playing its tributes in the upcoming film adaptation of the best-selling trilogy.

The movie's Facebook page has been updated to include Imanol Yepez-Frias and Annie Thurman, the latest newcomers to join the production. Thurman will appear in another film set in a dystopian future this year, "Falls the Shadow," from writer/director Steven Berryessa.

Like most of the tributes, neither of these roles is a large one, but District 9's male tribute is notable in the novel for being the first competitor Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, "Winter's Bone") sees killed in the games.

The story follows Katniss and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, "Bridge to Terabithia") from District 12 as they and 22 other tributes are forced to fight to the death by the Capitol in an annual, televised event.

Yepez-Frias and Thurman join fellow tributes Leven Rambin, Jack Quaid, Amandla Stenberg, Dayo Okeniyi, Ian Nelson,  Kalia Prescott, Jacqueline Emerson, Chris Mark, Ethan Jamieson, Tara Macken, Sam Ly, Leigha Hancock, Samuel Tan and MacKenzie Lintz.

The film also stars Liam Hemsworth ("The Last Song"), Elizabeth Banks ("The Next Three Days"), Paula Malcomson ("Sons of Anarchy"), Wes Bentley ("American Beauty") and newcomer Willow Shields ("Beyond the Blackboard").

This just leaves the unnamed tributes from District 10 along with Cato and Clove from District 2. Also yet to be cast are Katniss and Peeta's mentor Haymitch Abernathy, Katniss' designer Cinna and President Coriolanus Snow.

The film will be 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.

Vin Diesel talks about "Fast Five" extra scene as well as the franchise's future

Entertainment Weekly talked with "Fast Five" star Vin Diesel Thursday, expanding on the extra scene following the film's end credits and what it means for the eventual sixth film.

(Since this will obviously include spoilers for "Fast Five," the rest of this post will be behind the break.)

Keanu Reeves in talks to join 'Akira' live-action adaptation

Keanu Reeves ("The Matrix") is reportedly in talks to star in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the famed anime film "Akira."

Keanu Reeves

According to The Hollywood Reporter's Heat Vision Blog, Reeves's reps are talking to Warner Bros. about the actor taking on the role of Kaneda, the leader of a motorcycle gang who tries to save his friend Tetsuo from a military experiment gone awry.

In March, it was reported director Albert Hughes had shortlisted the candidates for Kaneda to Garrett Hedlund, Michael Fassbender, Chris Pine, Justin Timberlake and Joaquin Phoenix, while Robert Pattinson, Andrew Garfield and James McAvoy were in the running for Tetsuo.

The 1988 film directed by Katsuhiro Otomo was based on the six-volume manga from Katsuhiro Otom.

The live-action film moves the action from Neo-Tokyo to New Manhattan. "Harry Potter" scribe Steve Kloves was the last writer to take a swipe at the script.

Reeves was once attached to the live-action adaptation of another anime, "Cowboy Bebop," but that project has been silent since last summer. His interest here could mean the "Bebop" film is dead, or at least he is no longer connected, since I don't seem him heading up to big-named anime projects.

As for "Akira," this news will most assuredly rekindle the online angst about the project, especially over the so-called white-washing of the cast. As I said before, I consider this more of an Americanization or domestic-remake than a true adaptation. How many Japanese horror films have Hollywood done this to and nobody plays the race card? That's not to mention all of the European films which get remade. It's just how Hollywood rolls. It doesn't make them racist. Let's get some perspective folks.

'Terminator 5' director Justin Lin says new film may disregard 'Rise of the Machines,' 'Salvation'

More details are emerging about the forthcoming fifth "Terminator" film, which according to reports is set to star Arnold Schwarzenegger and be directed by Justin Lin ("Fast Five").

"Terminator Salvation" hit theaters in 2009.

Deadline reported last week that Pacificor, which bought the rights to the franchise in a bankruptcy auction in February 2010, was shopping the project around with the actor and director attached.

Lin revealed in an interview with MTV Wednesday that the new film may disregard the third and fourth films, "Rise of the Machines" and "Salvation."

"I always feel like what's great about the 'Terminator' franchise is that there's time-travel and there are different timelines to play with," Lin told MTV's Movies Blog. "There are also a lot of gaps from what we love about all of the 'Terminator' movies, so there's a lot of things we can do and play with.

"But obviously, answering your question, ['Terminator'] does have that capability, finding fresh ways of going back without destroying other [movies], because you can tell your own stories."

I"m not sure how I feel about this. For one, it's hard to pretend certain movies in a franchise suddenly do not exist (I'm looking at you "Star Trek: Nemesis"). "Superman Returns" tried that trick by picking up at the end of "Superman II" and it didn't work out too well, with the studio now rebooting the entire franchise.

There were similar rumors about "Salvation" and how true it would stick to the existing canon. I was pleasantly surprised to discover it did. I'm a sucker for continuity and I liked how they managed to tie the past and future together, or at least begin that process. One has to remember that "Salvation" was originally intended to be the first in a trilogy, so we really don't know what direction they were planning to take the story.

The biggest problem with "Salvation" was they entered a realm that I don't think James Cameron, when he wrote and directed the first two films, ever thought he'd ever have to show. John Conner being raised to be humanity's salvation is great when he's a kid, but when he has to grow up, become Christian Bale and try to convince everybody else that his mother told him he'd save the world, it's hard to pull off.

Lin said in the MTV interview he should know in the next three to four weeks how his upcoming schedule is going to shake out between this project and the eventual "Fast Six."