The Orphanage
Pan’s Labrynth director, Guillermo del Toro—who also produced this horror epic—was reportedly instrumental in securing a U.S. distribution deal during the Christmas season for this decidedly non-holiday scary ghost story, directed by hot Spanish newcomer Juan Antonio Bayona, from a script by Sergio Sanchez. Starring Belen Rueda, Fernando Cayo and Roger Princep, it’s the tale of a young woman who returns to visit her childhood orphanage, where her son makes friends with a group of terrifying imaginary characters. Advance buzz suggests this might be a Spanish take on The Others and The Sixth Sense. Coming December 26th from Picturehouse Entertainment.
Mr. Lopez Joins With Salma and Ventanazul
Now that it is up and running, Ventanazul—Salma Hayek’s new MGM-based film production company with partner Jose Tamez—is in negotiations with comedian/TV star George Lopez to co-write, produce and star in a still-untitled sci-fi comedy thriller about a young woman who is sent to the past to prevent World War III. The project, based on an idea by Chilean Nicolas Lopez, is set to begin production in early 2008. Other upcoming Ventanazul projects include the comedic fantasy Bones Family, about a Latino father trying to unite his dysfunctional family via a Las Vegas trip, cowritten and directed by Mexican brothers Gabriel and Rodolfo Rivapalacio, creators of Una pelicula de huevos, the second highest-grossing Mexican film of all time; and Diego Ascending, directed by Rodrigo Garcia (of Nine Lives fame), a coming-of-age drama about a teen torn between developing his great talent in math or taking care of a Latino family. The latter is based on an Israeli film titled Bonjour Monsieur Shlo.
Alvin & The Chipmunks
Baby boomers who fondly remember these classic characters from TV and recordings can now share the much-loved adventures of Alvin, Simon and Theodore, as well as authority figure/guardian Dave, with their own children via this new animated feature, starring the voices of My Name Is Earl star Jason Lee and Ross Bagdasarian Jr., the son of the series’ original late creator. Just in time for the holidays, too! Everyone sing along: “Christmas, Christmas time is near, time for fun and time for cheer….” Coming December 14th from 20th Century Fox.
