VIZ announces 24-hour anime channel to debut on game console

VIZ Media, the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga, graphic novels and anime in North America, unveiled plans for Neon Alley, a 24-hour anime channel featuring the world’s best titles set to debut on a major game console this fall. The service will be available in the United States and Canada.

Neon Alley’s schedule will include a mix of action, adventure, science fiction, supernatural, fantasy, and horror anime, all uncut and dubbed in English, and presented in HD (when available). Programming will include blockbuster anime titles such as "Naruto Shippuden," "Inuyasha: The Finale Act" and "Death Note," and will allow fans to discover new titles such as "Tiger & Bunny," "Berserk: The Golden Arc," "Zetman" and "Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan," along with original content that provides news and behind-the-scenes access for fans of anime and manga.

“We created Neon Alley for fans to watch the best anime titles in the world right on their TV,” said Ken Sasaki, President and Chief Executive Officer for VIZ Media. “Neon Alley will have weekly exclusive premieres of the hit titles they love, along with a mix of new, cutting-edge titles they didn’t know they were missing.”

Neon Alley will be a subscription-based service, subsidized with limited commercial advertising, to keep the launch price to consumers at a low $6.99 per month. Anime fans can register online at NeonAlley.com for news, updates on the service’s launch, and to find out how to get a sneak preview of the series debuting during the first season. Neon Alley is the first platform designed to be studio agnostic, featuring titles from other anime producers and distributors, and will unveil its programming lineup, special introductory offers, new acquisitions and other partnerships throughout the next several months.

'Carrie' remake begins principal photography

Principal photography has commenced in Toronto, Ontario, on the horror film remake "Carrie," it was announced today (Wednesday) by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and Screen Gems.

The remake is set for a 2013 release.

Director Kimberly Peirce ("Boys Don’t Cry," "Stop-Loss") re-imagines Stephen King’s best-selling novel for MGM and Screen Gems’ take on the enduring genre classic. Starring Chloë Grace Moretz ("Hugo"), four time Oscar-nominee Julianne Moore ("Crazy, Stupid, Love," "The Kids are Alright") and Judy Greer ("The Descendants"), "Carrie" tells the supernatural tale of a telekinetic teenage girl tormented by her peers. The film is slated for a 2013 theatrical release.

The story is set in the quiet suburb of Chamberlain, Maine, home to the deeply religious and conservative Margaret White (Moore) and her daughter Carrie (Moretz). Carrie is a sweet but meek outcast whom Margaret has sheltered from society. Gym teacher Miss Desjardin (Greer) tries in vain to protect Carrie from local mean girls led by the popular and haughty Chris Hargenson (Portia Doubleday, "Youth in Revolt"), but only Chris’ best friend, Sue Snell (Gabriella Wilde, "The Three Musketeers"), regrets their actions. In an effort to make amends, Sue asks her boyfriend, high school heartthrob Tommy Ross (newcomer Ansel Elgort), to take Carrie to prom. Pushed to the limit by her peers at the dance, Carrie unleashes telekinetic havoc. Brian De Palma’s 1976 film version of "Carrie" earned Oscar nominations for stars Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie.

MGM and Screen Gems’ "Carrie" is directed by Kimberly Peirce and produced by Kevin Misher ("Public Enemies"). J. Miles Dale ("The Vow") serves as executive producer and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa ("Big Love") wrote the script from King’s original story. The film's creative team includes Director of Photography Steve Yedlin ("Looper"), Production Designer Carol Spier ("Eastern Promises"), Costume Designer Luis Sequeira ("The Thing") and Editor Lee Percy ("Boys Don’t Cry").

'Sucker Punch' star Jena Malone in the running for 'Catching Fire' role

Casting continues on the anticpated "Hunger Games" sequel, "Catching Fire," with actress Jena Malone reportedly the latest to join the discussions.

Jena Malone

According to Entertainment Weekly, Malone is in the running for Joanna Mason, the female tribute from District 7 taking part in the 75th annual Hunger Games, which plays a large role in the second book in Suzanne Collins' best-selling trilogy.

Joanna is described as sarcastic and mean-spirited. She won her original Hunger Games by pretending to be weak and waiting until only a few opponents were left before revealing herself to be a skilled killer.

Malone portrayed Rocket in "Sucker Punch," as well as a younger version of Jodi Foster in "Contact."

The actress joins potential series newcomer Philip Seymour Hoffman, who has been offered the role of gamemaker Plutarch Heavensbee.

Lionsgate is looking to start production on "Catching Fire" in September with the release date scheduled for November 2013 under director Francis Lawrence ("I Am Legend," "Water for Elephants"), who is replacing "The Hunger Games" director Gary Ross.

Cast members Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Lenny Kravitz and Donald Sutherland are all expected to return, reprising their roles from "The Hunger Games."

The first film, which was released this past March, grossed more than $400 million domestically and $650 million worldwide.

James Cameron to film three 'Avatar' sequels in a row

Ever since director James Cameron announced he had ideas for multiple sequels to his record-breaking sci-fi film "Avatar," rumors have swirled about the possibility of two movies being filmed simultaneously.

"Avatar" grossed $2.7 billion worldwide.

According to an interview with actress Sigourney Weaver from Showbiz 411 (found via Comingsoon.net), the rumor mongers were thinking small, as she says she will soon working with the director on three sequels. Soon, as in this fall.

"Avatar" was released in December 2009 and went on to earn nine Academy Award nominations, winning three: Best Achievement in Visual Effects, Best Achievement in Art Direction and Best Achievement in Cinematography.

Weaver, who will appear next in USA Network's "Political Animals," will move on to some theatre work and then rejoin Cameron.

Showbiz 411 describes the actress' upcoming schedule as follows:

When “Political Animals” finishes shooting, see if you can follow Weaver’s schedule: she goes right into a new Christopher Durang play for a short run at Lincoln Center. Then she films “Avatar” 2, 3, and 4 with James Cameron. That’s right: they’re making three sequels to the blue 3D phenom all at the same time. Weaver says she has no idea how long it will take, or how it’s going to work. “I just show up,” she said. If “Political Animals” is renewed, USA will have to wait until all that’s over.

Weaver played Grace in the science fiction film, whose cast also included Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez and Giovanni Ribisi.

"Avatar" is the highest grossing film in history, earning $760 million domestically and $2 billion in foreign markets for a staggering grand total of $2.78 billion.

Kristen Schaal joins 'Cloudy 2'

"The Daily Show" correspondent Kristen Schaal has become the first new cast member of the upcoming "Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers" announced so far.

Kristen Schaal

According to Heat Vision, Schaal will voice an orangutan, joining Bill Hader, Anna Faris and Andy Samberg, all of whom are expected to reprise their roles from the first film.

A plot synopsis for the sequel was released earlier this month, describing the story as follows: In the wake of the disastrous food storm at the end of the first movie, Flint Lockwood and friends are forced to leave their town of Swallow Falls. But when it is discovered that sentient food beasts have overrun the island, they are asked to return to save the world…again.

The first film, loosely based on the classic children's book by Judi and Ron Barrett, hit theaters in 2009 and went on to earn $124 million domestically and $243 million worldwide.

The story follows hapless inventor Flint Lockwood (Hader), who creates a machine which accidentally produces edible precipitation. The news draws the attention of meteorologist Sam Sparks (Faris) and makes Flint his town's new hero, until of course, it all goes wrong.

Schaal isn't new to voice work, portraying Trixie the Triceratops in "Toy Story 3" as well as Louise in "Bob's Burgers" on FOX.

Dreamworks, EA driving 'Need for Speed' to the big screen

DreamWorks Studios has acquired the feature film rights to EA's popular video game franchise, "Need for Speed," it was announced jointly Friday by DreamWorks CEO and Co-Chair Stacey Snider and EA President of Studios Frank Gibeau.

The franchise has sold 140 million units.

Brothers George and John Gatins developed the original story with George writing the feature's screenplay. The screenplay is based on the "Need for Speed" series, but is not based on an individual game. EA will produce along with John Gatins and Mark Sourian. Scott Waugh ("Act of Valor") is attached to direct, and the project will be fast-tracked at DreamWorks with a target production start date for early next year, for a 2014 release.

The film adaptation will be a fast-paced, high-octane film rooted in the tradition of the great car culture films of the 70s while being extremely faithful to the spirit of the video game franchise, officials said. In "Need for Speed," the cars are hot, the racing is intense and the story keeps players at the edge of their seat.

"I'm excited about getting back into the creative trenches with John and George Gatins and my partners at EA to bring to life an exhilarating script based on an epic video game that seems to have been made for the movies," said Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks chairman. "This is a big piece of business for DreamWorks and we are grateful to Frank Gibeau, Pat O'Brien, Kevin Maher and John and George for choosing us to deliver their goods."

'Jurassic Park 4' has two new writers

After languishing in limbo for years, "Jurassic Park 4" has a pair of new writers.

The first film debuted in 1993.

Deadline reports that "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver have been tapped by Universal Pictures to pen the script.

The franchise began in 1993 with the Steven Spielberg-directed "Jurassic Park," based on the book by Michael Crichton. It was followed in 1997 by "The Lost World: Jurassic Park," which was again based on a Crichton novel. "Jurassic Park III" arrived in 2001. Combined, the three films grossed $1.9 billion worldwide.

The third film earned significantly less than the first two and a fourth film has never been able to get off the ground. Even with the new of new writer, the project is anything but a guarantee.

According to Deadline's report, Spielberg will not return the fourth installment, but will produce along with Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall.

Universal plans to re-release the original "Jurassic Park" in 3D in July 2013.

Matthew Gray Gubler renews contract for 'Criminal Minds'

"Criminal Minds" regular Matthew Gray Gubler has signed a new two-year contract to continue on the show.

Matthew Gray Gubler

Deadline is reporting Gubler, who has played Dr. Spencer Reid for the series' entire seven season run, will earn more than $100,000 per episode under the new deal.

The actor was the only member of the main cast whose contract was up this year other than Padget Brewster, who announced in February that she would not be returning next season.

Actress Jeanne Tripplehorn ("Big Love") will join the show this coming year, although there are no details available yet about her character. She signed a one-year contract with an option for a second to star in the procedural.

The cast also includes Thomas Gibson as Aaron Hotchner, Shemar Moore as Derek Morgan, Joe Mantegna as David Rossi, A.J. Cook as Jennifer "JJ" Jareau and Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia.

Emilie de Ravin upgraded to regular on 'Once Upon a Time'

The main cast of ABC's "Once Upon a Time" continues to grow with the announcement that Emilie de Ravin has been upgraded to a series regular for the show's sophomore season.

Emilie de Ravin

According to TVLive, De Ravin was given the offer after her pilot "Americana" was not picked up by ABC for the fall.

The actress played Belle in three episodes during the first season, providing a love interest for Robert Carlyle's ("Stargate Universe") Rumpelstiltskin. The two were reunited in the real world in the season finale.

TVLine quoted series writer Jane Espenson as saying, “We cast [De Ravin] thinking that she’d be great for this but that it would probably be a one-shot--but if she didn’t get a pilot and she had a good time and she’s available, we knew that of course she’d be welcome back.”

De Ravin is best known for playing the role of Claire on ABC's "Lost."

The news of her upgrade comes on the heels of a similar boost for actress Meghan Ory, who plays Ruby and Red Riding Hood in the fairy tale-themed show.

Kit Harington in talks to join ''How to Train Your Dragon 2'

"Game of Thrones" actor Kit Harington is in talks to join the voice cast of the upcoming "How to Train Your Dragon 2."

Kit Harington

According to Variety, Harington would play a villainous warrior in the sequel, which is set for release on June 20, 2014.

The first film was loosely based on the first installment in author Cressida Cowell's nine-book series of the same name and starred Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, T.J. Miller, Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Kristen Wiig. Co-writer and co-director Dean DeBlois is returning to write and direct the sequel.

Harington has portrayed Jon Snow in HBO's "Game of Thrones" for two seasons so far. He will next appear in "Silent Hill: Revelation 3D."

'Cloud Atlas' maps course for a Oct. 26 release

Concept art from "Cloud Atlas," which will be released in October.

Warner Bros. Pictures has officially slated the epic "Cloud Atlas," from filmmakers Lana Wachowski, Tom Tykwer and Andy Wachowski for domestic release on October 26, 2012.

In addition, the studio has acquired rights for the film in the major markets of the UK, France, Spain, Australia, and Japan, with plans to release it in those territories in early 2013. The joint announcement was made Tuesday by Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, and Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President of International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

"Audiences who have seen an early screening of 'Cloud Atlas' have been elated by its powerful and inspiring story, as well as its breathtaking visuals," Fellman stated. "An October release in North America is the perfect window to showcase this epic film."

"We are proud to be distributing this remarkable motion picture in a number of key markets," Kwan Vandenberg said. "We look forward to working with these visionary filmmakers and the other international distribution partners to bring 'Cloud Atlas' to moviegoers around the world."

Academy Award® winners Tom Hanks ("Philadelphia," "Forrest Gump") and Halle Berry ("Monster's Ball") lead an international cast that includes Oscar winner Jim Broadbent ("Iris"), Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, James D'Arcy, Zhou Xun and Keith David, with Oscar winner Susan Sarandon ("Dead Man Walking") and Hugh Grant. Each member of the ensemble appears in multiple roles as the stories move through time.

'Rock of Ages,' 'That's My Boy' no match for holdovers

This weekend's two wide releases both tanked, failing to unseat either of last week's debuts.

"Rock of Ages" had to settle for third.

"Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" remained at the top, dropping only 41 percent from its opening tally with $35.5 million. It's 10 days total now sits at $120 million.

Ridley Scott's "Prometheus" also held onto its number two position, picking up $20 million (a drop of 60 percent) for a total of $88 million.

The musical adaptation of "Rock of Ages," featuring an ensemble cast led by Tom Cruise, had to settle for third place with $15 million. The musical was made for $75 million.

"Snow White and the Huntsman" fell one spot from last week, grossing $13.8 million for a three week total of $122 million.

Adam Sandler's latest comedy "That's My Boy" rounded out the top five in its debut, picking up $13 million on a budget of $70 million.

Meanwhile, Marvel's "The Avengers" continues to close in on $600 million, grossing $8.8 million in its seveth weekend for a domestic total of $586 million.

The only film to see a week-to-week increase in its returns was Wes Anderson's "Moonrise Kingdom," which is continuing its slow expansion, adding 82 theaters this weekend and taking home $2.1 million for a total of $6.7 million.


The complete list of the weekend's top 10 grossing films is:

1. "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted," $60.3 million (Total: $120.4 million)
2. "Prometheus," $50 million (Total: $88.8 million)
3. "Rock of Ages," $15 million (New)
4. "Snow White and the Huntsman," $13.8 million (Total: $122.6 million)
5. "That's My Boy," $13 million (New) 
6. "MIB 3," $10 million (Total: $152.6 million)
7. "Marvel's The Avengers," $8.8 million (Total: $586.7 million)
8. "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel," $2.2 million (Total: $35.1 million)
9. "Moonrise Kingdom," $2.1 million (Total: $6.7 million)
10. "What to Expect When You're Expecting," $1.3 million (Total: $38.7 million)

Meghan Ory upgraded to regular on 'Once Upon a Time'

Season two of ABC's hit new series "Once Upon a Time" will be seeing Red this fall.

Meghan Ory

According to Deadline, actress Meghan Ory, who plays Ruby and Red Riding Hood in the fairy tale-themed show, has been upgraded from a recurring character to a series regular.

"Once Upon a Time" tells the story of the small Maine town of Storybrooke, which is populated by fairy tale characters who were sent there by a dreadful curse, wiping their memories and giving them new identities. The first season follows Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison, "House"), who travels to the town to return her biology son to his adopted mother Regina (Lana Parrilla, "Miami Medical"), not knowing that she's really the evil queen who cast the curse. Her son Henry (Jared Gilmore, "Mad Men") is convinced she is the one destined to break the curse and return everyone home.

Created by "Lost" writers Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, the series tells dual story lines each episode, dealing with the present day in Storybrooke and the characters' pasts in the fairy tale land.

It also stars Josh Dallas (who recently had to pull out of "Thor 2" due his obligations to the series) as Prince Charming/David Nolan, Ginnifer Goodwin ("Big Love") as Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchard and Robert Carlyle ("Stargate Universe") as Mr. Gold, known in the fairy tale land as Rumpelstiltskin.

Ory, whose previous work includes "True Justice," appeared in 17 of the first season's 22 episodes.

'Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell' movie in the works?

The popular video game series "Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell" could soon be sneaking its way into movie theaters.

The fist game was released in 2002.

Deadline is reporting that a number of studios are hovering around the project, including Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures, which may be the current frontrunner.

The Ubisoft video game series consists of five installments (plus a PSP edition), the first of which was released in 2002. The games follow protagonist Sam Fisher, a highly-trained agent of Third Echelon, a fiction black-ops division inside the NSA. A sixth game, "Splinter Cell: Blacklist" is set for release in 2013.

As of June 2010, the series had sold more than 22 million copies. It has also spawns a series of novels which currently stands at six.

The video game company launched Ubisoft Motion Pictures in January to handle film and TV productions, and "Splinter Cell" was among the properties targeted for a film adaptation. The others were "Assassin's Creed" and "Ghost Recon," also endorsed by Clancy.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley joins 'Mad Max' reboot

"Transformers: Dark of the Moon" actress Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has joined the cast of director George Miller's "Mad Max" reboot.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

According to JustJared.com (found via Comingsoon.net), the actress will play one of the "five wives," a group of women being taken across the film's post-apocalyptic landscape.

Miller directed the original 1979 "Mad Max" starring Mel Gibson as well as its two sequels, "The Road Warrior" in 1981 and "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome" in 1985.

Tom Hardy ("Inception") is taking on the title role in the new film, "Mad Max: Fury Road," and its sequel, which Miller plans to shoot back-to-back and is rumored to be titled "Max Max: Furiosa." The director also wrote the screenplay.

The new cast also includes Charlize Theron ("Prometheus"), Nicholas Hoult ("X-Men: First Class), Adelaide Clemens ("Camilla Dickinson"), Zoe Kravitz ("X-Men: First Class) and Riley Keough ("The Runaways"), the last two of which will also be among the five wives.

'Carrie' welcomes Portia Doubleday, Judy Greer

Two key roles in the upcoming "Carrie" remake have been cast, with actresses Portia Doubleday and Judy Greer joining the production.

Portia Doubleday

The cast already includes Chloe Moretz ("Hugo") in the title role, Julianne Moore ("Children of Men") as her mother and Gabriella Wilde ("The Three Musketeers") as mean girl Sue Snell.

Based on Stephen King's debut 1974 novel, the film tells the story of shy high school girl Carrie, who uses her newly discovered telekinetic powers to get revenges upon her classmates.

According to Deadline, Doubleday ("Youth in Revolt") will play the main antagonist, Chris Hargensen, and Greer ("The Descendants") will portray gym teacher Miss Desjardin.

Judy Greer

Kimberly Peirce ("Boys Don't Cry") is directly the remake based on a screenplay from comic book writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, who adapted King's "The Stand" into a graphic novel.

The original 1976 film, which was directed by Brian De Palma, starred Sissy Spacek in the title role.

It is expected that Aguirre-Sacasa's script will stay more faithful to King's book than the first film.

Imagine Entertainment to adapt '1984'

George Orwell's classic novel "1984" is set for a new feature adaptation from Imagine Entertainment.

The novel was first published in 1949.

Deadline is reporting the studio has tapped Noah Oppenheim to adapt the book, which was published in 1949. The new film will be produced by Brian Glazer, Julie Yorn and Rick Yorn.

The novel tells of a dystopian future in which Big Brother rules over the people of Oceania with an iron fish and an all-seeing eye. Winston Smith, whose job it is to rewrite history as needed, dreams of rebelling and discovers a way to do so when he falls in love.

Director Michael Radford adapted the novel for the 1984 feature film with John Hurt portraying Winston Smith. Gina Rosenblum, who was a producer on the original adaptation, will serve as executive producer here.


Oppenheim is currently working on the script for director Gary Ross' "The Secret Life of Houdini." He was also tapped last August to write the script for MGM's "War Games" remake.

'Ninja Turtles' delayed to 2014 over budget concerns

Paramount Pictures' planned "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" reboot has run into new trouble, pushing both the production's start date and the film's release date.

The new film is now targeting 2014.

Deadline is reporting the studio is pushing back the production's start date 10 weeks in an effort to trim the budget by $10 million or $20 million. The film, which was slated for a Dec. 25, 2013, release is now targeting May 16, 2014.

According to the report, the studio is looking to get the budget down to $125 million.

This isn't the first trouble for the reboot. Producer Michael Bay courted fan outrage earlier this year when he mentioned that the Turtles' origin story would be more alien in nature than in the original "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" comics, cartoon series and movies. This was compounded when Paramount Studios announced the title for the upcoming movie was being shortened to "Ninja Turtles."

The new film will be directed by Jonathan Liebesman ("Wrath of the Titans") based on a screenplay from Josh Appelbaum and André Nemec ("Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol").

Jonah Hill to join Tarantino's 'Django Unchained'

Even though the first trailer for Quentin Tarantino's "Django Unchained" was released earlier this month, that doesn't mean the film's cast can't continue to grow.

Jonah Hill

Deadline is reporting that "Money Ball" actor Jonah Hill has been tapped for an undisclosed role in the film.

According to the report, Hill was considered early on in the production for the role of Scotty Harmony, but that will not be who is playing now.

"Django Unchained" follows a slave (Jaime Foxx, "Ray") who joins forces with a bounty hunter (Christoph Waltz, "Inglourious Basterds") to rescue his wife from a brutal plantation owner (Leonardo DiCaprio, "The Departed").

Hill, known mostly for his comedic work in such films as "Superbad" and "21 Jump Street," turned heads last year with his Academy Award-nominated performance in "Moneyball."

Joe Cornish to adapt Neal Stephenson's 'Snow Crash'

Neal Stephenson's cyber-punk novel "Snow Crash" is once again in the sights of Paramount Pictures for a feature film adaptation.

The novel was published in 1992.

Deadline reports "Attack the Block" director Joe Cornish is set to write and direct the adaptation.

According to the report, Paramount had the rights to the novel when it was first published in 1992, but dropped it. Disney then acquired it with Kennedy/Marshall producing, but again it went nowhere. The production company then got Cornish involved and brought the project back to Paramount.

In addition to the sci-fi comedy "Attack the Block," Cornish also helped write Steven Spielberg's "The Adventures of Tintin" and is attached to the forthcoming Marvel adaptation, "Ant-Man."

The official synopsis of "Snow Crash" describe the book as follows: "In reality, Hiro Protagonist delivers pizza for Uncle Enzo’s CosaNostra Pizza Inc., but in the Metaverse he’s a warrior prince. Plunging headlong into the enigma of a new computer virus that’s striking down hackers everywhere, he races along the neon-lit streets on a search-and-destroy mission for the shadowy virtual villain threatening to bring about Infocalypse. "Snow Crash" is a mind-altering romp through a future America so bizarre, so outrageous...you'll recognize it immediately."

Jeanne Tripplehorn joining 'Criminal Minds'

With Paget Brewster leaving CBS' "Criminal Minds" for the second time in two seasons--this time by her own choice--actress Jeanne Tripplehorn has been tapped to join the procedural this fall.

Jeanne Tripplehorn

According to Deadline, Tripplehorn's contract is for one season with an option for a second.

The report quotes showrunner Erica Messer as saying, "“We’re thrilled to have Jeanne Tripplehorn join our team as a profiler. It’s an exciting way to start season eight.”

The show's seventh season marked the return of series regular Brewster as Emily Prentiss and A.J. Cook as J.J. Jareau. Their departure the previous season brought a clamor from fans who were upset at the decision to axe the stars, especially considering it appeared to have been a financial rather than creative one.

In February, however, it was announced Brewster would once again leave the show at the end of the season.

"After six wonderful years playing Emily Prentiss, I have decided it’s time for me to move on," she told Deadline. "As much as I will miss my 'Criminal Minds' family, I am excited about the future and other opportunities."

Last year, Brewster filmed a pilot for NBC's "My Life as an Experiment," but the show wasn't picked up. ABC Studios, which produces "Criminal Minds," then exercised an option in the actress' contract to bring her back for another year. Brewster declined to sign a new contract.

Last year, Tripplehorn finished her five-season run on "Big Love" and appeared this past season on two episodes of the freshman comedy "New Girl." She received an Emmy nomination in 2009 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for her work in HBO's "Grey Gardens."

The details of her character on "Criminal Minds" are not yet known.

Yvonne Strahovski joins 'Dexter' for multi-episode arc

"Chuck" star Yvonne Strahovski will be making a return to television next fall thanks to a multi-episode arc on Showtime's "Dexter."

Yvonne Strahovski

According to Deadline, Strahovski, who finished her five-season run on NBC's "Chuck" this year, will play Hannah McKay, a "strong, independent woman with a past that she's struggled to put behind her."

The show follows Dexter (Michael C. Hall), a forensic agent with the Miami Police Department who just happens to be a serial killer, although most of his victims are criminals themselves. In the upcoming seventh season, Dexter works with Hannah after she is asked by the department to help on several old cases.

Strahovski played CIA agent Sarah Walker on "Chuck" for five seasons before the show ended in January. She will also be appearing in the films "The Guilt Trip" and "I, Frankenstein," both of which are in post-production.

Season seven of "Dexter" is due to premier Sept. 30. Production began last week.

Philip Seymour Hoffman offered role in 'Catching Fire'

Philip Seymour Hoffman has been offered the role of Plutarch Heavensbee in "The Hunger Games" sequel "Catching Fire."

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Heat Vision is reporting that the actor was offered the role the same day he split with his agency Paradigm.

Heavensbee is the new gamemaker, replacing Seneca Crane (Wes Bentley) from the first film.

According to the report, Lionsgate is looking to start production on the film in September with the release date scheduled for November 2013 under director Francis Lawrence ("I Am Legend," "Water for Elephants"), who is replacing "The Hunger Games" director Gary Ross.

Cast members Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Lenny Kravitz and Donald Sutherland are all expected to return, reprising their roles from "The Hunger Games."

The first film crossed the $400 million mark this past weekend at the domestic box office and has grossed $650 million worldwide.

Hoffman was most recently seen in "Moneyball." He won the 2006 Academy Award for Actor in a Leading Role for his work in "Capote." He also earned two nominations for best supporting actor in 2007 for "Charlie Wilson's War" and in 2008 for "Doubt."

Hugh Laurie to take on 'Robocop'

"House" actor Hugh Laurie is in talks to take on Robocop in MGM and Sony's remake of the 1987 film.

Hugh Laurie

According to The Hollywood Reporter's Heat Vision, Laurie would be the villain in the new movie, portraying the CEO of Omnicorp, the company which creates Robocop.

"Robocop" will be directed by Jose Padilha ("Elite Squad," "Bus 174") based on a screenplay from James Vanderbilt ("Zodiac," "The Amazing Spider-Man"), Nick Schenk ("Gran Torino") and Joshua Zetumer.

Joel Hinnaman ("The Killing") will be Robocop, a cop who is saved from death and converted into a cyborg police officer, role played by Peter Weller in the original. The new cast also includes Gary Oldman ("Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy") as the scientist who creates Robocop and Samuel L. Jackson ("The Avengers") as a media mogul. Abbie Cornish ("Limitless," "Sucker Punch") is also in talks to play the film's female lead.

Laurie finished his eight-season run as the title character in FOX's hit medical drama "House" this season.

Principal photograph begins on 'The Quiet Ones'

Principal photography is now underway on the supernatural thriller.

Simon Oakes, vice-chairman of Exclusive Media and president & CEO of Hammer, announced today (Tuesday) that Hammer, an Exclusive Media Company, begins principal photography on "The Quiet Ones," the supernatural thriller/horror which will shoot on location in Oxfordshire.

Starring Jared Harris ("Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows," "Mad Men") and Sam Claflin ("Snow White and the Huntsman," "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides"), "The Quiet Ones" will be directed by John Pogue ("Quarantine 2: Terminal"). Joining the cast are Erin Richards ("Breaking In," "Being Human"), Olivia Cooke ("The Secret of Crickley Hall," "The Fuse") and West End theater actor Rory Fleck-Byrne. With the story and original screenplay by Tom DeVille, revisions by Craig Rosenberg, Oren Moverman and most recently John Pogue, the film is produced by James Gay-Rees ("Senna," "Exit Through The Gift Shop") and Ben Holden in association with TPSC Films.

Inspired by true events, "The Quiet Ones" tells the story of an unorthodox, but charismatic Professor (Harris) who uses controversial methods and leads his best students off the grid to take part in a dangerous experiment: to create a poltergeist from negative human energy.

Paramount grabs 'Wunderkind' for Abrams, Bad Robot

Paramount Pictures is continuing its shopping spree, picking up the spec script "Wunderkind" for J.J. Abrams' Bad Robot.

J.J. Abrams

According to Comingsoon.net, the script is from writer Patrick Aison and is set in 1979, following a CIA Nazi hunter who becomes entangled with an older Massad agent also on the hunt.

Aison's most recent project is "Echo Station," a sci-fi thriller which he co-wrote with Brad Kean and is being directed by the Spirig brothers.

Paramount's option on "Wunderkind" comes on the heels of the news that the studio picked up "God Particle," a script from Oren Uziel, also for Bad Robot.

Ray Winstone to set sail with 'Noah'?

Actor Ray Winstone is the latest to consider taking a trip with director Darren Aronofsky's "Noah."

Ray Winstone

Deadline is reporting that the actor is in negotiations to play the role of the main antagonist to Noah, who will be played by Russell Crowe ("Gladiator").

The film tells the Biblical tale of Noah, who was directed by God to create a giant ark to save two of every animal before a great flood wiped the Earth clean.

Last week, it was reported that "Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson was in talks to join the cast as Ila, a woman who is involved with Noah's son Shem, portrayed by Douglas Booth ("The Pillars of the Earth" and the forthcoming "Romeo and Juliet").

Logan Lerman ("Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lighning Thief") is also attached as Noah's other son Ham.

This will be Aronofsky's followup to his Academy Award-nominated films "Black Swan" and "The Wrestler."

Winstone was most recently seen in "Snow White and the Huntsman," in which he played Gorth, one of the seven dwarfs. His resume also includes roles in "Hugo," "The Departed" and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull."

Oliver Megaton seeking 'Land of the Living'

Director Oliver Megaton has joined "Land of the Living," an abduction thriller based on the best-selling British novel.

The book was published in 2003.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Megaton, whose most recent project is the upcoming "Taken 2," will direct the film, which follows a young ad executive who is abducted off the streets, escapes and then hunts down her would-be killer.

The script is from Scott Gullette and is based on the book by Nicci French, the pen name of writing duo Nicci Gerard and Sean French.

The film will be produced by a slew of companies, including Emjag Productions, Stone Village, Battleplan Productions, Film 360 and Dro Entertainment.

Megaton directed last year's "Colombiana," the revenge thriller starring Zoe Saldana and produced by Luc Besson.

Paramount, Abrams seeking 'God Particle'

Paramount Pictures has found the "God Particle," a script from Oren Uziel that it hopes to develop on a small budget.

J.J. Abrams

Vulture reports the studio has picked up the script for J.J. Abrams' Bad Robot. Uziel wrote the action comedy "The Kitchen Sink."

According to the report, the new script's synopsis is as follows: "After a physics experiment with a large hadron accelerator causes the Earth to seemingly vanish completely, the terrified crew of an orbiting American space station is left floating in the middle of now-even-more-empty space. When a European spacecraft appears on their radar, the Americans must determine whether it’s their salvation, or a harbinger of doom."

The projected budget for the project is $5 million, which would put it definitely on the low end of the spectrum.

Chris Hemsworth attached to 'The Heart of the Sea'

Actor Chris Hemsworth is reportedly attached to "The Heart of the Sea," based on the real-life events that were the inspiration for Herman Meville's "Moby Dick."

The story inspired "Moby Dick."

According to Deadline, no studio has signed the project as yet, but several are giving it a look, including Dreamworks.

The movie, if it happens, would be based on the Nathaniel Philbrick's National Book Award-winning work "The Heart of the Sea," which follows the real-life story of the whaling ship Essex destroyed by a sperm whale in 1820.

Deadine is reporting that the project's producers include Joe Roth, Paula Weinstein, Will Ward and Palek Patel, and the script was written by Charles Leavitt ("Blood Diamond").

Philbrick's website offers a more detailed synopsis of the story:

The ordeal of the whaleship Essex was an event as mythic in the nineteenth century as the sinking of the Titanic was in the twentieth. In 1819, the Essex left Nantucket for the South Pacific with twenty crew members aboard. In the middle of the South Pacific the ship was rammed and sunk by an angry sperm whale. The crew drifted for more than ninety days in three tiny whaleboats, succumbing to weather, hunger, disease, and ultimately turning to drastic measures in the fight for survival.

Hemsworth was most recently seen in "Snow White and the Huntsman" and is expected to begin filming next month on "Thor 2," reprising his title role, which is also portrayed in this summer's "The Avengers."

In "The Heart of the Sea," Hemsworth would play the ship's first mate.

Disney announces 'Frozen' with Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel

Walt Disney Animation Studios presents an epic tale of adventure and comedy in “Frozen,” a computer-animated feature film slated for the big screen in November 2013.

Kristen Bell

Directed by Chris Buck (“Tarzan,” “Surf’s Up”) and produced by Peter Del Vecho (“Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Frog”), “Frozen” features the vocal talents of Kristen Bell as Anna, a young dreamer about to take the adventure of a lifetime, and Tony Award-winning actress Idina Menzel as Elsa the Snow Queen. The movie will feature original songs by Broadway greats Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.

In “Frozen,” a prophecy traps a kingdom in eternal winter, so Anna (Bell) must team up with Kristoff, a daring mountain man, on the grandest of journeys to find the Snow Queen (Menzel) and put an end to the icy spell. Encountering Everest-like extremes, mystical creatures and magic at every turn, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom from destruction.

Sony, Hasbro partnering for Tonka truck film

Tonka, the Hasbro brand that for 65 years has stood for its line of toy trucks for children, will bring its "Tonka toughness" to the big screen in a fully animated motion picture to be produced by Sony Pictures Animation, Hasbro and Happy Madison Productions.

Tonka has been the best-selling toy truck since 1947.

The announcement was made today (Monday) by Bob Osher, president, Sony Pictures Digital Productions, Michelle Raimo-Kouyate, president of Production for Sony Pictures Animation and Brian Goldner, president and CEO of Hasbro.

The film will also be produced and developed by Goldner and Hasbro’s senior vice president and managing director of motion pictures, Bennett Schneir and will be written by Fred Wolf.

The new Tonka project strengthens the growing ties between Sony Pictures and Hasbro, following the announcements that Sony Pictures is developing motion pictures based on Hasbro’s Risk and Candy Land brands. "Candy Land" is also a Happy Madison project.

Plot synopsis released for 'Cloudy 2'

Although it was already announced that "Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers" will arrive in February 2014, the upcoming film now has an official plot synopsis, giving fans an idea of what to expect.

The first film was released in 2009.

The licensing expo will be held this week and Collider got an early look at some of the promotional materials for several films, including "Cloudy 2."

The first film, loosely based on the classic children's book by Judi and Ron Barrett, hit theaters in 2009 and went on to earn $124 million domestically and $243 million worldwide.

The story follows hapless inventor Flint Lockwood (Bill Hader), who creates a machine which accidentally produces edible precipitation. The news draws the attention of meteorologist Sam Sparks (Anna Faris) and makes Flint his town's new hero, until of course, it all goes wrong.

Based on the synopsis, the sequel should pick up shortly after the end of the first film.

In the wake of the disastrous food storm at the end of the first movie, Flint Lockwood and friends are forced to leave their town of Swallow Falls. But when it is discovered that sentient food beasts have overrun the island, they are asked to return to save the world…again.

"Cloudy 2" will be directed by Cody Cameron ("Open Season 3") and Kris Pearn, who was head of story on the original. It is set for release on Feb. 7, 2014.

First poster for 'Dredd' arrives

Judgement is coming this September and we now have the first promotional materials for the upcoming "Dredd" in the form of a movie poster.

The movie arrives Sept. 21.

JoBlo (found via Comingsoon.net) had the first look at the new poster along with two other photos, which were posted Friday.

The film is based on the British comic "Dredd," which was also the basis for the 1995 Sylvester Stallone film "Judge Dredd."

The new version, directed by Pete Travis ("Vantage Point," "Endgame") and written by Alex Garland ("28 Days Later"), stars Karl Urban ("Star Trek") in the title role. The cast also includes Lena Headley ("Game of Thrones") and Olivia Thirlby ("The Darkest Hour").

According to the synopsis, "Dredd" is set in a violent, futuristic city where the police have the authority to act as judge, jury and executioner. There a cop teams with a trainee to take down a gang that deals the reality-altering drug, SLO-MO. 

"Dredd" is set for release on Sept. 21 and is rated R for strong bloody violence, language, drug use and some sexual content.

Analysis: 'Hunger Games' crosses $400 million

This weekend, "The Hunger Games" became the 14th film to cross $400 million at the domestic box office, and the 11th to achieve the feat during its initial release.

It's the 14th film to cross $400 million.

The movie, which hit theaters on March 23, crossed the mark Sunday, its 80th day of release. Of the 11 films to cross $400 million at the domestic box office, "The Hunger Games" was the slowest to do so.

It's also the second movie of 2012 to cross $400 million after "The Avengers," which conversely did it the fastest, in only 14 days. The only other year to see two movies reach the mark was 2009 with "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" and "Avatar."

The point of this analysis is to look at how "The Hunger Games" has performed at both the domestic and worldwide box offices and what it portends for the future of the franchise.

Based on the best-selling book by Suzanne Collins, "The Hunger Games" starred Jennifer Lawrence ("Winter's Bone," "X-Men First Class") as Katniss Everdeen with Josh Hutcherson ("The Kids are Alright") as Peeta Mellark and Liam Hemsworth ("The Last Song") as Gale Hawthorne. The cast also included Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Wes Bentley and Toby Jones.

"The Hunger Games" was directed by Gary Ross ("Seabiscuit," "Pleasantville") based on a screenplay from Bill Ray ("State of Play").

'Madagascar' ecapes from 'Prometheus' to earn top spot at weekend box office

Two new movies left their mark at the domestic box office this weekend with the animated "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" topping Ridley Scott's "Prometheus" $60 million to $50 million.

The film grossed $60 million.

For the former, the receipts were down slightly from 2009's "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa," which earned $63 million on a much less crowded February weekend. That film went on to gross $180 million domestically and $423 million worldwide.

As for "Prometheus," the sci-fi thriller's $50 million was the fourth highest opening weekend ever to not land in the top spot behind "The Day After Tomorrow," "Sherlock Holmes" and "Wanted." Compared to the "Alien" films, it is by far the highest opening weekend, but since the last film hit theaters 15 years ago, it's not exactly a fair comparison (that's leaving out the "AVP" films, but "Prometheus" dominated them as well).

Last week's number one, "Snow White and the Huntsman," fell to third with $23 million, a 59 percent drop from its debut. It has held up solidly overseas, and the film has grossed $182 million worldwide to date on a reported budget of $170 million (excluding marketing). That should make Universal feel better about its decision to pursue a sequel to the fairy tale film.

"MIB 3" earned $13.5 million for a total of $135 million in domestic markets, but it's done much better overseas, grossing $352 million for a worldwide total of $487 million. The film reported cost $225 million.

Rounding out the top five was Marvel's "The Avengers," which continued to pad its position as third on the all-time domestic and worldwide lists with another $10.8 million over the weekend. It's totals now stand at $571 million domestically and $1.39 billion worldwide. It trails only "Titanic" and "Avatar" on both lists.

Also worth noting is director Wes Anderson's "Moonrise Kingdom," which has been turning heads by grossing massive amounts of money in only a handful of screens. It expanded slightly this weekend to 96 theaters, where it grossed $1.5 million, good enough to crack the top 10.

The complete list of the weekend's top 10 grossing films is:

1. "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted," $60.3 million (New)
2. "Prometheus," $50 million (New)
3. "Snow White and the Huntsman," $23 million (Total: $98.5 million)
4. "MIB 3," $13.5 million (Total: $135.5 million)
5. "Marvel's The Avengers," $10.8 million (Total: $571.8 million)
6. "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel," $3.2 million (Total: $31 million)
7. "What to Expect When You're Expecting," $2.7 million (Total: $35.7 million)
8. "Battleship," $2.2 million (Total: $59.8 million) 
9. "The Dictator," $2.1 million (Total: $55.1 million)
10. "Moonrise Kingdom," $1.5 million (Total: $3.7 million)

Damon Lindelof to rewrite 'World War Z'

Screenwriter Damon Lindelof has been brought in to rewrite the script for "World War Z," months after filming closed on the Brad Pitt-starring adaptation of Max Brooks' best-selling book.

Filming had already finished on the film.

Directed by Marc Forster ("Finding Neverland," "Quantum of Solace") based on a screenplay from Matthew Michael Carnahan ("State of Play") and J. Michael Straczynski ("Babylon 5," "Thor"), the film has found itself in a world of trouble over the last month or so.

First the release date was pushed back from this December to June 21, 2013, and then it was announced that seven weeks of reshoots were scheduled for September or October.

According to Heat Vision, Lindelof, co-creator of ABC's "Lost" and co-writer of Ridley Scott's "Prometheus," will focus on the film's third act.

Brooks' novel is described as a recounting of the "apocalyptic and horrifying years that will make sure we never forget how close we came to total annihilation. Told from the perspective of numerous survivors from all over the world, from Denver to South Africa, Sydney to Yonkers, Malibu to India, 'World War Z' captures the sacrifices and, toward the end, the ingenuity of our race to defend and save our cities, towns, and villages from a plague that seemed virtually impossible to stop."

Pitt stars as the U.N. worker who collects the accounts. Mireille Enos (AMC's "The Killing") plays Pitt's wife, while James Badge Dale (HBO's "Pacific") plays a soldier who tries to warn everyone of the impending threat.

Josh Dallas not returning for 'Thor 2'

With filming on Marvel's "Thor 2" set to begin in July, actor Josh Dallas has had to pull out the project due to his commitments to ABC's "Once Upon a Time."

Josh Dallas

Dallas, who plays Prince Charming on the fairy tale series, portrayed Fandral, one of the Warriors Three, in the superhero film.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the actor said, "The timing wasn’t right. I’m bummed about it because I had such a great experience and great time making the first film and was really excited about coming back. Marvel and Disney tried to make it work. But because of my commitment to 'Once Upon a Time,' I was not going to be able to do both. So I’ll have to hand the reins over to someone else."

According to The Hollywood Reporter's Heat Vision, the studio already has someone in mind to replace Dallas in the role: Zachary Levi.

Zachary Levi

Levi finished his five-season run on NBC's "Chuck" this past spring. He had a starring role in the pilot for "Let It Go," which was produced by Sony Pictures TV for Fox. The network, however, did not pick it up for series.

Levi has an existing connection with Disney, having provided the voice for Flynn Rider in the animated film "Tangled."

"Thor 2" will be directed by Alan Taylor ("Game of Thrones"). Actors Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Idris Elba and Anthony Hopkins are returning to reprise their roles from the first film.

The movie will be released Nov. 8, 2013.

'Snow White and the Huntsman' sequel in the works

Universal is looking to build on  the solid opening weekend for its "Snow White and the Huntsman," laying the groundwork for a sequel.

The film has earned $129 million to date.

According to Deadline, screenwriter David Koepp ("Jurassic Park," "Spider-Man") has been tapped to pen a script for the sequel.

While Koepp was not involved in the original, Universal is reportedly not looking far for its director, talking to Rupert Sanders, who made his directorial debut with "Snow White," to secure his return.

The film, which starred Kristen Stewart ("Twilight") and Chris Hemsworth ("Thor") in the title roles along with Charlize Theron as the evil queen, grossed $56 million in its opening weekend and $82.9 million to date. It's worldwide gross tops $129 million, but it has a ways to go to reach its reported budget of $170 million.

Deadline is reporting that Sanders is not under contract for any sequels, while the actors have options for two.

Koepp has written a number of blockbusters in his career, including "Mission: Impossible," "The Lost World: Jurassic Park," "War of the Worlds" and "Angels & Demons."

Fukunaga to write, direct Stephen King's 'It'

Warner Bros. has a director and screenwriters in place for its feature-film adaptation of Stephen King's "It."

"It" was published in 1986.

According to The Hollywood Reporter's Heat Vision, Cary Fukunaga ("Jane Eyre") will direct and co-write the script with Chase Palmer, director of the shorts "Shock and Awe" and "Neo-Noir."

The plan is for the book to be adapted into two films, Heat Vision's report says.

King's novel, which was first published in 1986, was adapted into a television mini-series in 1990.

A synopsis from King's website describes the books as this: A promise made twenty-eight years ago calls seven adults to reunite in Derry, Maine, where as teenagers they battled an evil creature that preyed on the city's children. Unsure that their Losers Club had vanquished the creature all those years ago, the seven had vowed to return to Derry if IT should ever reappear. Now, children are being murdered again and their repressed memories of that summer return as they prepare to do battle with the monster lurking in Derry's sewers once more.

Emma Watson in talks for 'Noah'

"Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson is in talks to join the cast of director Darren Aronofsky's film, "Noah," based on the biblical tale.

Emma Watson

Deadline is reporting Watson would play Ila, a woman who is involved with Noah's son Shem, portrayed by Douglas Booth ("The Pillars of the Earth" and the forthcoming "Romeo and Juliet").

Russell Crowe ("Gladiator") is set to be Noah and Logan Lerman ("Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lighning Thief") will be Noah's other son Ham.

This will be Aronofsky's followup to his Academy Award-nominated films "Black Swan" and "The Wrestler."

Watson, who finished her eight-movie run on the "Harry Potter" franchise last year, will next be seen in the coming-of-age film "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," which also stars Lerman.