Mike Gyllenhaal Backs From Motor City

EXCLUSIVE: It looked good there for just about any day but Mike Gyllenhaal’s deal to star inside the Albert Hughes-directed Motor City has veered off beam. Talks fell apart, over organizing, I hear. The actor preferred to push the dates and financier Dark Castle did not. They are putting together lists for the next actor to star inside the film just as one ex-military guy who's presented and sees his existence and lady removed with the theif. Gary Oldman and Amber Heard are actually occur the Chad St. John-scripted film.

New Cabin Within The Forest Trailer Arrives

Chris Hemsworth finds the fearWhat are we able to let you know about The Cabin Within The Forest without ruining much? Well, we are able to say it's co-written and directed by Cloverfield scribe Came Goddard, with writing and creating the help of his old Buffy boss, Avengers director Joss Whedon. It is a fresh take a look at horror conventions and, indeed, there is a new trailer online via FEARnet. But when you are really searching to prevent knowing an excessive amount of, you might like to cure it.Nevertheless around? Brave souls! Anyhoo, Cabin stars Chris Hemsworth, Fran Kranz, Kristen Connolly and much more as several youthful types who mind to go to the titular cabin within the equally titular forest. They are cautioned they may not wish to risk it, but, being figures inside a horror movie, they naturally proceed anyway. Signal screaming, running, bloodstream and... Well, we are really attempting to keep that one quiet so they won't ruin anything. That is annoying when you are attempting to talk about a movie.The brand new trailer does not add an excessive amount of towards the plot, but we are still concerned it could give more away than some need to know.Log cabin can get its large premiere in the SXSW Film Festival a few days ago. Fortunately, we do not have to wait too lengthy how to see the one thing, because it stalks into movie theaters on April 13. You heard right: Friday the thirteenth. Appropriate!

RTL Group net profit up 13.9%

BERLIN -- Increased business from international production activities and TV operations in the Netherlands helped boost revenue last year at pan-European broadcasting giant RTL Group. Europe's leading broadcaster posted a 4.2% increase in revenue to Euros5.76 billion ($7.6 billion), while net profit climbed 13.9% to $917 million. Higher revenue at London-based production arm FremantleMedia and RTL Nederland boosted RTL Group's overall performance. Driven by increased revenue in North America and the first-time full consolidation of recent acquisitions Radical Media and Canadian game developer Ludia, Fremantle reported revenue growth of 12.3%, with profit before interest, tax and amortization up 2.1% to $188 million. FremantleMedia distribs "Merlin," the hit German and Dutch daily soap "Good Times, Bad Times" and Australia's "Neighbours," as well as popular formats "Idols," "The Price Is Right" and "Got Talent." RTL Nederland scored its best ratings since 1997, capitalizing them into double-digit TV ad growth as earnings climbed 21.8% to $176 million for both TV and radio operations. The company described Europe's TV ad markets last year as a mixed bag: rather flat in Western Europe, with the exception of Belgium and the Netherlands, which were up, and lower ad revenue in Southern and Eastern Europe. RTL Group's other major profit centers in Germany and France continued to outperform local competition. RTL Deutschland saw a 4% drop in earnings to $695 million, reflecting the challenging German TV ad market and higher investments in programming, but nevertheless achieved its second-best result ever. With its flagship channel RTL Television reporting significantly higher ratings, thanks to hit shows like "House," "Alarm for Cobra 11" and "CSI: Miami," RTL Deutschland, which also comprises four other free-to-air channels, increased audience leadership over main rival ProSiebenSat.1 to 6.1 percentage points. In France, M6 was the only major French channel to increase its audience share year-on-year, while digital channel W9 reported significant growth, both in terms of ad revenue and ratings. M6 earnings were up 1.6% to $327 million. Outgoing RTL CEO Gerhard Zeiler said the group accomplished three major achievements last year: RTL's channels maintained or increased their strong audience share; the group succeeded in maintaining the high profitability achieved in 2010; and it fortified an international portfolio aimed at safeguarding its leading market positions and developing new businesses. To that end, RTL consolidated TV operations in the Netherlands, Hungary and Croatia, made new online acquisitions in Germany and the Netherlands, and exited Greece's troubled broadcasting market. "We see different developments in the various countries we operate in," Zeiler said. "Looking at January and February 2012, we can say that the negative development many had feared did not happen. Given the high volatility of the various TV advertising markets throughout Europe, and the very short-term bookings cycle, it is not possible to give full-year guidance at the moment. However, RTL Group has repeatedly demonstrated that it can operate successfully in very difficult economic environments." Contact Ed Meza at staff@variety.com

'Matilda' on the run

The Royal Shakespeare Customers are getting its hit musical to Broadway early next season. The Royal Shakespeare Company brings its large London hit "Matilda" to Broadway early next season, giving preemptive confirmation in the much-anticipated news while watching imminent start adult auditions for your Gotham version.RSC has not selected a u . s . states creating partner for your Rialto transfer it's expected the org determines a precise strategy inside the future.Using the Roald Dahl novel, in addition to-famous musical bowed this season within the RSC in Stratford-Upon-Avon right before the current West Finish transfer that began in October.Adaptation of "Matilda" features a book by Dennis Kelly with tunes by Tim Minchin. Matthew Warchus helms the show, of a book-loving youthful girl whose mysterious forces help her overcome a dastardly headmistress.London version is produced with the RSC with Andre Ptaszynski aboard as professional producer.With preliminary auditions for adult roles to begin later, the timeline for your Gotham version of "Matilda" would start to see the tuner land round the Rialto noisy . 2013.Theater, dates together with other particulars be set. Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com

James Murdoch Out As News Worldwide Chief

NY, NY February 29, 2012 News Corporation today introduced that, following hisrelocation for the Companys headquarters in NY, James Murdoch, Deputy ChiefOperating Officer, has relinquished his position as Executive Chairman of NewsInternational, its Uk posting unit. Tom Mockridge, Boss of News Worldwide, continues within the publish and may account to News Corporation Leader andCOO Chase Carey. We're all grateful for James’ leadership at News Worldwide and across Asia and europe,wherever he's made lasting contributions for the group’s strategy in paid out digital content and itsefforts to boost and enhance governance programs, mentioned Rupert Murdoch, Chairman andChief Executive Officer, News Corporation. He's proven leadership and continuesto create great value at Star TV, Sky Deutschland, Sky Italia, and BSkyB. Since he hasmoved to NY, James is constantly on the visualize numerous essential corporateleadership mandates, with particular focus on important pay-TV companies and broaderinternational methods. I deeply appreciate the dedication of my many gifted co-employees at News Internationalwho work non-stop to determine everyone and am confident in regards to the tremendous momentumwe have accomplished beneath the leadership of my father and Tom Mockridge, mentioned JamesMurdoch. “With the effective launch in the Sun on Sunday and home based business practices inplace across all game game titles, News Worldwide is becoming in the strong position to build up its successesin the long run. As Deputy Chief Operating Officer, I anticipate growing my commitmentto News Companies worldwide television companies together with other key initiatives across theCompany.

Lisa Edelstein Will Not Return to House for Series Finale

Lisa Edelstein Sorry, Huddy fans: Lisa Edelstein will not be returning to House before the series checks out on May 21, TVLine.com reports. Edelstein, who played House's boss and love interest, Cuddy, left the Fox medical drama in May after seven seasons. Her departure followed an explosive - and critically panned - season finale which saw House drive into Cuddy's home months after their break-up. Edelstein's exit left the show with seemingly little hope of resolution for "Huddy," the nickname fans gave the will-they-or-won't-they couple. Lisa Edelstein on leaving House and her Good new role: "I just move on" House creator David Shore told TVGuide.com at the start of Season 8 that he had mulled the idea of Edelstein returning for a proper Cuddy send-off, but it was too soon to do so. "Down the road, that might be more appropriate. It didn't seem right now," he said. "Given that she was gone, we decided it was better to not just have her come back to leave again." Edelstein moved on quickly after the exit, joining The Good Wife for a multi-episode arc. "It's funny because not everybody knows that I left the show," she told TVGuide.com in October. "I get a lot of 'Congratulations! I'm so excited to watch the show again,' and I just don't say anything. I say thank you. They'll figure it out at some point. I just move on." Fox Schedule Upheaval: Bones moving to Mondays, Touch heads to Thursdays Fox announced Monday that the network would air a one-hour House retrospective before the series finale. A rep for the Fox series did not immediately respond to TVGuide.com's request for comment. Are you sad Edelstein won't be returning to House?

Trailer: Tiny Furniture + Sex and the City = Lena Dunham's GIRLS, Kinda

It's awfully simplistic to say so but with Lena Dunham's forthcoming HBO dramedy series GIRLS, which marks the latest milestone in her rapidly ascending career, the comparisons draw themselves -- comparisons to Dunham's own prior work and to all that's come before in attempting to mine the modern single female experience for insights and laughs in film and television. But whether you're a fan or a Dunham skeptic, it's worth taking a look at the show's first trailer to see for yourself what to expect from the developing filmmaker, especially with folks like Judd Apatow shepherding her post-Tiny Furniture. Dunham's career-starting indie pic Tiny Furniture (her sophomore feature) earned equal shares of praise and criticism upon release in 2010, but it unquestionably put her brand of wry, neurotic comedy on the radar and demonstrated Dunham's willingness to expose herself, warts and all, as a writer and performer. GIRLS, also set in NY and concerned with young women on the brink of figuring out their lives, very much expands on the Dunham brand but shows a marked maturity; Dunham stars in front of the camera in addition to writing and directing, and she's joined by three strong supporting actresses (Allison Williams, Jemima Kirke, Zosia Mamet) who flesh out the series' circle of twentysomething friends. The similarities to Sex and the City can be found, but they're also deliberate; characters fully acknowledge that they're of a generation weaned on SATC's fantasy, just one of the many pop references they cite as somewhat (painfully) self-aware NY transplants. Truth be told, I was sold after previewing the first three episodes, especially given where GIRLS falls in the vast range of female-slanted shows on the air of late; it debuts on HBO this April and bridges the gap between the current class of girl-oriented network fare and the more daring stuff found on cable these days, but also captures a range of interests and talent so innately of this generation. For example: The trailer below teases appearances by Chris Eigeman (Metropolitan) and Peter Scolari (Bosom Buddies)! What's more, an upcoming episode features a particularly juicy turn by Lonely Island's Jorma Taccone that I've been thinking about repeatedly since. This is TV (HBO's scheduled a 10-episode season to run) but more important than this or that format is the idea that Dunham's developing her voice as a storyteller in line with what we've seen previously. She's seemingly been given a considerable amount of rope to keep doing her thing (Apatow's involvement as a producer likely has something to do with that) and it should be interesting to watch as she keeps one foot in television and one in film. GIRLS debuts at SXSW next month and premieres April 15th on HBO.

Discovery Taps MTV Vet Courtney Menzel As SVP Domestic Distribution

SILVER SPRING, MD Discovery Communications has named Courtney Menzel Senior Vice President, Domestic Distribution, effective March 1. An accomplished 20-year affiliate sales and marketing executive with MTV Networks and most recently Current Media, Menzel will lead National Accounts and Field Sales and Marketing efforts for Discoverys Domestic Distribution team, responsible for the strategic oversight and distribution of a portfolio of 13 U.S. networks, nine HD channels and all Discovery U.S. Hispanic networks. “Courtney is an effective and dynamic leader who will be a tremendous asset to our team,” said Bill Goodwyn, President, Global Distribution and CEO, Discovery Education, Discovery Communications, to whom Menzel will report. “She has proven her ability, time and time again, to build strong, productive client relationships and mutually beneficial partnerships. With Courtney on board, Discovery is extremely well positioned to continue its solid tradition of using the strength of its brands and quality content to drive incredible value for distributors. In her new role, Menzel will oversee all aspects of Discoverys partnerships with distributors, as well as its industry-lauded sales and marketing team. She will develop and direct all national accounts strategy with the top distributors, and will oversee the Domestic Distribution Field Sales team and all Affiliate Marketing efforts nationwide. Menzel will manage the teams in the Silver Spring headquarters location, as well as the Los Angeles and Charlotte regional offices. Discoverys Domestic Distribution team was ranked #1 by Beta Research for seven consecutive years as the top sales organization within the cable television industry and has been previously named Affiliate Sales Team of the Year by CableFAX magazine. Menzel comes to Discovery most recently from Current Media, where since 2010 she led all affiliate sales and partner marketing initiatives. Among her many accomplishments for Current, Menzel strategically negotiated affiliate agreements to secure long-term carriage and revenue; created and drove a comprehensive, company-wide strategy for distributing Currents TV video content across platforms; and secured Currents first national VOD and TV Everywhere deals. Prior to joining Current, Menzel spent 14 years at MTV Networks, in various senior distribution and marketing roles. There, she developed strategic relationships with major distributors and increased carriage for a number of networks including TV Land, Comedy Central, MTV2, CMT, Logo and BET. Among her many achievements for MTV Networks, Menzel led partnership negotiations with affiliates and forged key marketing initiatives, most notably a multi-platform music partnership with Comcast and VH1 Storytellers. Her most recent charge for MTV Networks was leading distribution and marketing strategy for EPIX, the joint venture involving Viacoms Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM. In less than one year, Menzel and her team grew distribution of EPIX to 30 million available homes. Menzel started her career in the cable industry as a marketing manager for Cox Communications. Among her many industry achievements and affiliations, Menzel is a member of the Cable & Telecommunications Association for Marketing (CTAM) and Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT). She is a two-time CTAM Mark Award winner and served on a committee to develop WICTs senior executive leadership program. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Delaware.

Alcon acquires Oren Peli's 'Chernobyl Diaries'

Alcon Entertainment has acquired U . s . States and worldwide release rights in Germany, The nation and Japan for Oren Peli's horror-thriller "Chernobyl Journals." The film will probably be released by Warner Bros. via Alcon's output deal on Memorial Day weekend this year. "Chernobyl" is produced by Peli and John Witten ("Dark City") and directed by Kaira Parker. It absolutely was funded and offered worldwide by FilmNation Entertainment. Alcon co-cake cake toppers Andrew Kosove and Broderick Manley are professional producers. Production happened in September and October in Eastern Europe. A geniune story by Peli, "Chernobyl Journals" is occur the city of Prypiat that after situated the workers in the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. Story follows several pals who, while travelling in Europe, finish up stranded inside the abandoned city only to uncover that they are one of many. Dork Fierson, Alcon's SVP of economic Matters, introduced the film into Alcon. The sale was talked about by Alcon CFO Scott Parish, Scott Edel of Loeb & Loeb and Nancy Bruington of O'Melveny & Myers regarding Alcon by Alison Cohen, Linda Lichter and Micah Eco-friendly regarding Oren Peli and FilmNation. Peli written and directed "Paranormal Activity" which is the creator of ABC's "The Forest,Inch a paranormal jungle adventure which opened up the other day getting a 2-part debut. Parker offered since the visual effects supervisor on 2010's "Let Me In" and makes his directorial debut using this project. Peli is repped by CAA. Parker is repped by Paradigm. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

Standard and Poor's downgrades Sony

TOKYO -- Credit ratings agency Standard and Poor's has downgraded Sony one step from an A- to BBB+ credit rating. The move comes days after the company forecast $2.9 billion in net losses for the financial year, its fourth consecutive year in the red. The agency said in a statement that the main reason for the red ink is "Sony's strategy to aggressively expand its global market share despite strong competition, a massive erosion of prices, and its high-cost structure compared with overseas competitors." S&P added that "it will be difficult for Sony to return its TV business to profitability even in fiscal 2013. Therefore, we see a low likelihood of a strong recovery in Sony's earnings in the next two years or so." The agency said it may drop Sony's rating even further if it sees "no meaningful sign of recovery" in the coming six to 12 months. Sony prexy and CEO Howard Stringer has said he is stepping down, after seven years at the top, in April to make way for Kazuo Hirai, who turned around Sony's game biz and has since taken over management of its core electronics division. Hirai is aiming to slash TV biz losses in half in the coming 2012 fiscal year and return to profitability by the end of March 2014, but S&P considers such an outcome unlikely. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

A Day Trip Using The Middle Kids

Charlie McDermott and Atticus Shaffer There might be sitcoms which are fancy, edgier and more personal or even more ironic compared to Middle, but you would be hard-pressed to locate any which are more amusing. Since premiering in '09, ABC's hit comedy concerning the Hecks, a functional-class Midwestern group of misfits, has proven it does not have a right- or left-coast sensibility to create laughter - thanks in no small part towards the performances of Charlie McDermott (Axl), 21, Eden Sher (Sue), 20, and Atticus Shaffer (Brick), 13. TV Guide Magazine performed hooky using the trio to have an mid-day of small-golf at Castle Park in Sherman Trees to discover if they are equally entertaining off duty. TV Guide Magazine: You have been playing these figures for any couple of years - have everyone caught yourself dealing with any one of their eccentricities? McDermott: Maybe, but despite the fact that Axl is definitely in the under garments, I am still virtually professional-clothing.Sher: I believe Charlie could be far too comfortable carrying out a nude scene now. I place it available for him. Sorry!Shaffer: Through the finish of every season, I've found myself doing Brick's whisper factor once in a while. Like I'll say, "The blueberry is yellow... [whispers] yellow."Sher: Personality-smart, when you become familiar with me, I am a lot like Sue, but generate an income present myself is really different. I recieve recognized way under other people. TV Guide Magazine: Charlie, you play a higher school junior, however, you had your 21st birthday in April. Have you tear in the L.A. club scene? McDermott: I put together a table from IKEA. It had been crazy.Sher: The blonde one?McDermott: I have never heard a table referred to as blonde.Sher: It is a sexy table.McDermott: It's pretty nice, yeah. The only real time I have visited a golf club was after i was, like, 19, in Canada. It had been a really odd experience - I did not always appreciate it.Sher: It's challenging Charlie to even arrived at the house, that is five miles away, and merely spend time at my blonde table. TV Guide Magazine: Word is, the two of you was once next-door neighbors....Sher: The very best year of my existence! We'd spend some time with one another at the office, go spend time in your own home. We shared one clean cloth. Charlie stored seeking to get different towels, and that i was like, "No."McDermott: I had been from line. We'd a secret-knock language to speak between our walls, however it never got specific.Sher: It's way harder than you'd think. Once I figured he was knocking and that he was really just hanging photos.McDermott: Which was an unfortunate day. TV Guide Magazine: What's going to the Heck kids end up like as grown ups?Shaffer: I believe Brick would most likely work on the library - he'd be maybe somewhat more completed psychologically, not too from it.McDermott: Axl is a professional athlete - otherwise he'll finish up employed in the quarry, like his father.Sher: Sue might be a guidance counselor - maybe in an elementary school. I do not think she's ever gonna develop. Hopefully she will not have braces, though. TV Guide Magazine: Atticus, your mother is the tutor. What's that they like?Shaffer: I have been homeschooled, so doing the work on set is type of exactly the same factor. My mother causes it to be very interactive - we'll obtain a book on chocolate and learn to allow it to be, or she'll buy antique products. I really like military history, the mechanics and means of it. TV Guide Magazine: Likely to invade any small nations?McDermott: I saw a roadmap of Puerto Rico in the trailer.Shaffer: Circled, having a giant "no" sign through it. TV Guide Magazine: Eden, what is the trick to taking Sue's clumsiness?Sher: I must be prepared to fail constantly, and willing to stay in physical discomfort. It feels great. I am not really a teen any longer, so I am reliving this complete factor around the periphery. I'm able to just laugh in internet marketing. When I am carrying out a scene, I believe, "What will be the funniest in cases like this?Inch And it is usually most awkward or uncomfortable factor. TV Guide Magazine: Spent your holidays volunteering in Nicaragua, India along with other places. Are you currently privately saving the planet?Sher: It's a lot more selfish than people allow it to be to be. I simply enjoy to visit and learn. If Atticus destroys Puerto Rico, I'm going to be there setting it up together again. TV Guide Magazine: Your TV parents are sitcom stories Neil Flynn (Scrubs) and Patricia Heaton (Everyone Loves Raymond). Any tales?McDermott: I made Patty laugh throughout a scene once, also it was the proudest day's my existence. She broke character she was off camera, however it was enough for me personally.Sher: In Season 1, I must've raised me being insecure about something to Neil, and that he cited the [poem] Desiderata: "Should you compare yourself with other people, you might become vain and bitter for always you will see persons greater and lesser than yourself." Now it's like my mantra.McDermott: If only I acquired that advice! Neil is much like Yoda. TV Guide Magazine: Spill it: Who's typically the most popular person around the set?Sher: With Atticus, it is a new lady going to every single day.McDermott: We'll see some lady wandering around, like, "I am searching for Atticus...?" Obviously you're.Shaffer: Everyone are inspiring me to consider over Panama And Nicaragua , now. Viva la revolución! The Center airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on ABC. Sign up for TV Guide Magazine now!

Summit sets 'I, Alex Cross' for October

Summit Entertainment has set an March. 26 domestic launch for "I, Alex Mix," starring Tyler Perry with Make the most of Cohen pointing. QED International's reboot of James Patterson's legendary character is certainly an origin tale in the detective/mental health specialist made famous by Morgan Freeman in "Hug the ladiesInch and "Along Came a Spider." Matthew Fox and Erection dysfunction Burns may also be starring. "Alex Mix" will open in the Weinstein Co.'s "Halloween 3dInch and Fox's surf pic "Of Males and Mavericks," starring Gerard Butler. Lionsgate bought Summit lately but has mentioned Summit is constantly on the function just like a brand inside the organization. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

Maya Rudolph Grateful To Molly Shannon For Displaying The Ropes On SNL

First Released: The month of january 21, 2012 6:16 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Maya Rudolph, Molly ShannonLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Saturday Evening Live alumni Maya Rudolph and Molly Shannon have reunited around the small screen once more for NBCs Up Through The Night, and also the Bridesmaids star states she couldnt be more happy to become dealing with her former SNL mentor. I believe I requested [Molly] and can Ferrell how you can browse the signal cards because nobody described almost anything to me, because I arrived in the finish of my season, Maya described to AccessHollywood.coms Laura Saltman of methods she and Molly first grew to become buddies around the late evening sketch show in 2000, throughout a vacation to the Up Through The Night occur La on Friday. It had been really frightening in the future in like this and never know anybody. It had been like beginning school with three days left and everyone understood where you can sit within the cafeteria and that i really was scared and overcome and [Molly] was so great and she or he stated, This is the way I actually do it, Maya recounted. Molly really beats to her very own drum. She does not get it done like anybody else. The amusing pair partnered again on Mollys show, Kath & Kim, and again when Molly came back to host Saturday Evening Live while Maya was still being a castmember. I had been lucky enough to get use her when she returned to host the show also it really was neat to finally understand how to perform the show after which watch her get it done, she stated. Shes so unique shes so great. Additionally to Mayas over-the-top daytime talk show host character on Up Through The Night, fans from the comedienne are anxiously waiting for a follow up to her side-splittingly funny giant screen hit, Bridesmaids. Regrettably, the actress states doesn't have pull if this involves a potential follow-up film. I am not responsible for whether we perform a follow up. Im fine whatever anybody really wants to do, she told Laura. I really like that group a lot, therefore if we finish up doing something together in different ways that might be great too. Adding, I believe that right now its established we loved cooperating and that i cant imagine carrying out a movie like this with out them people that will you need to be bizarre and strange. Catch Maya and Molly, together with Christina Applegate and can Arnett, when Up Through The Night airs at its new time Thursdays at 9:30 PM on NBC. Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

CES systems up record-breaking confab

The 2012 Worldwide Electronic Devices Show ended an archive year on Friday with increased participants and exhibitor space than every other year.Based on the CEA, a lot more than 153,000 people attended the huge electronic devices confab this season, up in the previous record of 152,203 that attended in 2006. This Year, 149,529 attended.Hollywood's representation in the show and it is Entertainment Matters program can also be likely to top the 9,000 that registered this past year with a significant number, although final tallies aren't yet revealed.The CEA has scheduled CES 2013 for Jan. 8-11, once more in Vegas.CES also stated it set an archive with 1.861 million internet sq ft of exhibit space used this season, up from 1.857 million internet sq ft in 2008. Trying out the area was over 3,100 participants, up in the record 3,072 in 2008. Contact Marc Graser at marc.graser@variety.com

The Five Things In All Mark Wahlberg Movies

You kind of have to love Mark Wahlberg. While he's certainly capable of surprising audiences by breaking type (and doing it spectacularly), the man knows what he likes and doesn't apologize for any of it. Over the years, Wahlberg has carved out his own corner of the crime genre, which we'll call the "Wahlberg Picture." There are clear variations in the several Wahlberg Pictures that Mark Wahlberg has made, but at their core, they're the same enjoyable flick. His newest movie, "Contraband," is no exception to this rule. If you're unfamiliar, here is a helpful guide to the key characteristics of a Wahlberg Picture. Crime First and foremost, a Wahlberg Picture must involve crime. It isn't always a specific felony, but there will usually be some sort of hierarchy with a boss at the head. Wahlberg has the freedom to fall on either side of the law, as a cop ("We Own the Night"), a crook ("Contraband") or a potentially dirty cop ("The Departed"). With the last two examples, you'll notice a common theme which plays into the next point. Reluctant Violence In a Wahlberg Picture, he'll hurt you, but only because you made him. In the cases where Wahlberg plays a criminal, his character doesn't come with the normal trappings of a villain. His crimes are always justified. Edward Norton either killed his girl's pop, or Giovanni Ribisi is going to kill his family. If Wahlberg is going to break the law, he's going to break the neck of the man who hurt him in the process, and that's because of Family Something that's always important to Wahlberg in a Wahlberg Picture. He's a family man. He wants you to say "hi" to your mother for him. "Four Brother," "Max Payne," "We Own the Night," "The Fighter" and "Contraband" all focus on revenge for or protection of his family. If you do not want to incur the wrath of Wahlberg, do not mess with his family—because you will die. Boston You don't have to know a lot about Wahlberg to know that he comes from the streets of Boston and is proud of it. If the film isn't set in Boston, it will take place in NY or Detroit and be as Boston-like as possible. It will look like Boston. It will sound like Boston. For all intents and purposes, it will be Boston. Good Guy These are all important components to make a successful Wahlberg Picture, but what it really comes down to is character. You might not agree with his methods or how he treats people, but he's ultimately a good guy. He'll avenge his mother or kill Matt Damon when he's being a rat p---k. That's the kind of guy Wahlberg plays, and that's why we love him. What is your favorite Wahlberg Picture? Let us know in the comments below and on Twitter!

KCET stretches BBC News agreement

La independent pubcaster KCET has extended its agreement while using BBC to air syndicated daily newser "BBC World News America." Furthermore for the Katty Kay-moored new halfhour, KCET may even still air selected BBC World News bulletins. "This partnership may have a huge role in featuring both our flagship U.S. newscast 'BBC World News America' and our 24/7 funnel, BBC World News -- and may complement our contracts with major U.S. cable operators," mentioned Richard Porter, controller British of BBC Global News. Contact Jon Weisman at jon.weisman@variety.com

Start Looking: Smallville's Erica Durance Suits As Question Lady on Harry's Law

Erica Durance It is the moment Smallville fans happen to be awaiting: Erica Durance is putting on the actual Question Lady costume. She just did not get it done until her guest appearance on Harry's Law. Durance, who captured stated goodbye towards the role of Lois Lane after Smallville ended its 10-year run, will have a somewhat psychologically unstable lady who thinks she truly is Question Lady within the Wednesday, Jan. 11 episode of Harry's Law. TVGuide.com hit the set to discover how it is like to use the costume, that is of the identical design worn by Adrianne Palicki in David E. Kelley's defunct Question Lady pilot. Also, Durance takes up the Lois Lane versus. Question Lady question. Smallville's Erica Durance seeks justice as Question Lady on Harry's Law So how exactly does it feel really dealing with play Question Lady... of sorts? Erica Durance: "Of sorts" is the easiest method to place it and it is most likely the easiest method to listen to it because you're able to have some freedom and you are not judged quite as roughly. The way in which I could use the smoothness Question Lady within this is thru your eyes of the lady who frantically needed a powerful female archetype to idolize, and she or he choose to go through such terrible things which was her alter ego. I'd challenge anyone who stated that they did not think she was Question Lady. This is the way she found her way to avoid it. So, being an actress, dealing with placed on the suit and play Question Lady was fantastic after which I acquired this complete other layer due to the way in which David E. Kelley wrote it, to ground it within this type of humanistic point of view, that was lovely. What sparks your character's alter ego, "Question Lady," to visit public? Durance: Well, she has been out for some time. What eventually ends up happening is the fact that my character, Annie Billson, went a measure too much, or some would say many steps too much, and brought this psychosis, this vigilantism just a little far within the opinion of society and she's hurt one so many people, and thus she's really been billed having a crime. She would go to see Adam (Nate Corddry), whom she's a brief history with and it has attended senior high school with. They know her, so she seeks his representation. Annie is actually passionate that they is really Question Lady. Could it be a reasonable comparison to express that she's as passionate as Lois Lane? Durance: I'd think so since it is exactly the same person doing the work, and passion is passion. I am the vessel and will also finish up getting that same color into it, however i play the role of as truthful as you possibly can inside it and she or he comes with individuals same convictions. The only real difference, obviously, is character's from a different kind of world, and also the reason she's become to an entirely different reason. However I will state that individuals will most likely certainly recognize it since it is still Erica playing it, right? [Laughs] And So I could not transform that, but passion is certainly a great word for this. You'd placed on the "Amazon . com Princess" costume on Smallville. So how exactly does it feel dealing with placed on the actual factor? Durance: Just a little daunting, and partly because getting experienced the comic world for some time now, I am really very sincere of those that love this character. I actually do go very seriously. Like a side note, simply to be light about this, any lady putting on tight pants isn't super excited the very first time she puts them on. [Laughs] I wasn't exactly, you realize, tight pants- or under garments-ready. Maybe you have desired to play Question Lady? Should you did not possess the finish of Smallville last season, can you have thought about joining David E. Kelley's project? Durance: I'll state that I'd jump in the chance to utilize David E. Kelley again and [Harry's Law and Question Lady executive producer] Bill D'Elia. Bill D'Elia cast me on my small first large job very which was very enticing. I'd face the facts with a little of trepidation, however i most likely might have desired to dive in to the deep finish of something of that nature. I believe it is a great character and you will have a lot fun by using it. I really like comics. I really like that sci-fi stuff. I was raised on that therefore it is something which, in ways, I truly connect with and that i would have loved that, but that wasn't my journey. I Quickly wound up getting this excellent specific role on here and started work on the show that has charge, that is Kathy Bates. In my experience, that's pretty great. Are you currently the kind of actress who states, "I have spent so long on Smallville and today I've to escape that genre!"? Durance: No. I simply believe things cross your path that should cross your path and you will know if you notice it whether for you to do it or otherwise. I believe that the majority of us stars are include a box of sorts. We are labeled. That you can do your very best to step outdoors of this a bit in some places and have a great time by using it, but you might also need to know might embrace it and revel in it. Personally, I am just grateful to operate again. Have you got any Smallville withdrawal? Durance: There is a certain grieving process to departing a show and someone which were a household for you. You need to learn that's everything existence is, is simply a group of transitions for you personally which means you undertake it. But yeah, there have been occasions after i was like, "Aww." Less sad sometimes, but I'll continue another set and will also you need to be slightly different. I am shifting. I have been stating that for several weeks. I am in transition. Lasso of truth time: Best benefit of putting on the costume and also the worst a part of putting on the costume. Durance: The good thing may be the corset, surprisingly, since it provides you with a small little waist, causing you to crunches really straight. The most uncomfortable part is tight, elastic pants because, well, guess what happens you seem like when you are putting on tight, elastic pants. You just need to be cautious things are appropriate. But can you have wanted the under garments version from the costume though? Durance: [Laughs] I am very grateful for that pants. I understand that individuals were very looking forward to the under garments to see them. To become quite frank, I'm not sure basically could've done the under garments justice at this era also it may have been more upsetting for individuals to determine me inside them rather than not, and so i think the pants really are a safe wager for me personally. Durance's episode of Harry's Law airs Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 9/8c on NBC. Are you currently excited to determine Durance within the Question Lady costume?

Vince Guaraldi receivers sue Concord Music

The children in the late jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi, creator in the lengthy lasting holiday album "A Charlie Brown Christmas," have punished Concord Group, proclaiming the label has short transformed them on greater than $2 million in royalties. David and Dia Guaraldi's breach of contract action filed 12 ,. 23 in Alameda County Superior Court alleges that Concord and Fantasy Records, which was bought by Concord in 2004, under paid out royalties "for any very long time and perhaps decades." Echoing accusations of numerous recent actions -- the latest of those filed the other day by Peter Frampton as well as the heir in the Knack's drummer Bruce Gary (Daily Variety, 12 ,. 27) -- the suit also claims Concord "has impermissibly and without justification reduced the royalty paid out on sales of digital downloadsby organizations.Inch The filing states, "Particularly concerning the 'Charlie Brown Christmas' albumFantasy Records launched claims that consists of false or deceitful representations and under paid out litigants based on people inaccurate and incomplete accountings." "A Charlie Brown Christmas," featuring its the yuletide hit "The Holidays Is Here Now NowInch and several recurring "Peanuts" cartoon styles, remains among the perennial holiday bestsellers. It stands at No. 37 relating to this week's U.S. album chart according to Nielsen SoundScan, the range has offered greater than 3.millions of copies because the organization began monitoring sales in 1991. Action claims that royalty rates on record sales were "inaccurately low (sometimes, as much as 70%)." Guaraldi was typically paid out 50% of label receipts from third-party licensees. But, the suit states, "In calculating royalty rates on third party digital downloads, (Concord) has reduced by yet another 25% the already reduced royalty rate that could be due on records provided by Concord Music's entrepreneurs." A Concord representative declined discuss the suit. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

Comedy actor/actress contenders at the Globes

Kristen Wiig in 'Bridesmaids'Brendan Gleeson in 'The Guard'Jean Dujardin in 'The Artist'With rookie nominee Kristen Wiig up against Golden Globe veterans Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Charlize Theron and Michelle Williams, there's a lot more experience in the contest for musical/comedy actress than in the men's race.Those four seasoned femme campaigners have four wins and 13 other previous Globe nominations between them. This may be the comedy category, but those contenders share some serious thesping chops.The men -- first-timers Owen Wilson and Jean Dujardin, plus Brendan Gleeson, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Ryan Gosling -- can muster just six prior nods between them, and not a single victory.But past performance is never a reliable guide to future results. Indeed, one of the HFPA's most reliable favorites, Paul Giamatti, who won last year for "Barney's Version," was widely tipped to return this year for "Win Win," but didn't make the cut. Perhaps the fact he got a nod in the miniseries category was enough.Also missing is last year's double nominee Johnny Depp. Some cynics predicted that the HFPA's addiction to superstars would deliver another nod to Depp for "The Rum Diary," but after the barrage of mockery from Ricky Gervais last year, voters seem to have curbed their wilder crushes.Nonetheless, the presence of both Foster and Winslet from "Carnage" (and not their less starry male co-stars John C. Reilly and Christoph Waltz) is something of surprise, especially since Winslet has gone out of her way to avoid being part of the film awards conversation this time around after so many years on the circuit.In fact, HFPA has tried to make doubly sure Winslet turns up by nominating her for the HBO TV drama "Mildred Pierce," so she won't have any excuse for avoiding her red carpet duties.With "The Artist" riding so high in award season, Dujardin starts out the favorite for the men's title. He could be the first non-native English-speaking male to win since his fellow Frenchman Gerard Depardieu in 1990.The luck of the Irish has been a more recent factor, with Colin Farrell winning three years ago for "In Bruges," in which he co-starred with this year's nominee Gleeson (also nominated that year in the supporting category).Gleeson's nomination for "The Guard" represents an unexpected showing by that dark Irish comedy after the pic's previous low profile on the awards circuit.Gordon-Levitt for "50/50," Wilson for "Midnight in Paris" and Gosling for "Crazy Stupid Love" were more widely expected.Gosling also shows up across the aisle in the dramatic section for "The Ides of March," but not for what many critics regard as his best performance of the year in "Drive."Williams looks the most likely to step from the Globes to an Oscar nod for her perf as Marilyn Monroe in "My Week With Marilyn." And as the only previous Globe nominee in the comedy actress race without a win, HFPA voters may well feel her time has come.But despite being surrounded by towering dramatic talents, the rookie Wiig can't be ruled out. Her authorship of "Bridesmaids" reinforces the claim made by her painfully hilarious turn as a woman on the verge (or perhaps in the grip) of a nervous breakdown brought on by her best friend's nuptials.GOLDEN GLOBES COUNTDOWN Year of couples therapyThe ContendersDrama: Best Picture | Comedy: Best Picture | Best Director | Drama Actor/Actress | Comedy Actor/Actress Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

World's Shortest Woman Wants to be Bollywood Star

NAGPUR, India (AP) A high school student in central India was recognized as the world's shortest woman by Guinness World Records on Friday as she turned 18 and said she hopes to earn a degree and make it in Bollywood.Jyoti Amge stood just 62.8 centimeters (24.7 inches) tall shorter than the average 2-year-old when Guinness representatives visiting from London measured her at a ceremony attended by about 30 relatives and friends in the town of Nagpur, in Maharashtra state.A teary-eyed Amge, dressed in one of her finest saris, called the honor an "extra birthday present" and said she felt grateful for being small, as it had brought her recognition. After receiving a plaque, she and her guests cut a birthday cake."I have put Nagpur on the world map. Now everyone will know where it is," said Amge, who says she dreams of one day becoming a Bollywood film star as well as pursuing a university degree after she finishes high school this year."I want to be an actor," she said.She measured 7 centimeters (2.76 inches) shorter than 22-year-old American Bridgette Jordan, who had held the title since September."Jyoti encourages us all to look beyond mere size and to just celebrate our differences," Guinness adjudicator Rob Molloy said.This was not Amge's first Guinness record. Until Friday she was considered the world's shortest teenager, but in turning 18 qualified for the new title. She has grown less than 1 centimeter (0.4 inch) in the last two years, Guinness said in a statement, and will grow no more due to a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia.Her teenage title brought the chance for multiple Guinness-sponsored trips to Japan and Italy for tours and meetings with other record holders, she said.The title of shortest woman in history continues to be held by Pauline Musters, who lived in the Netherlands from 1876 to 1895 and stood 61 centimeters (24 inches) tall.Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. By Manish Swarup December 16, 2011 PHOTO CREDIT AFP Photo/Punit Paranjpe NAGPUR, India (AP) A high school student in central India was recognized as the world's shortest woman by Guinness World Records on Friday as she turned 18 and said she hopes to earn a degree and make it in Bollywood.Jyoti Amge stood just 62.8 centimeters (24.7 inches) tall shorter than the average 2-year-old when Guinness representatives visiting from London measured her at a ceremony attended by about 30 relatives and friends in the town of Nagpur, in Maharashtra state.A teary-eyed Amge, dressed in one of her finest saris, called the honor an "extra birthday present" and said she felt grateful for being small, as it had brought her recognition. After receiving a plaque, she and her guests cut a birthday cake."I have put Nagpur on the world map. Now everyone will know where it is," said Amge, who says she dreams of one day becoming a Bollywood film star as well as pursuing a university degree after she finishes high school this year."I want to be an actor," she said.She measured 7 centimeters (2.76 inches) shorter than 22-year-old American Bridgette Jordan, who had held the title since September."Jyoti encourages us all to look beyond mere size and to just celebrate our differences," Guinness adjudicator Rob Molloy said.This was not Amge's first Guinness record. Until Friday she was considered the world's shortest teenager, but in turning 18 qualified for the new title. She has grown less than 1 centimeter (0.4 inch) in the last two years, Guinness said in a statement, and will grow no more due to a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia.Her teenage title brought the chance for multiple Guinness-sponsored trips to Japan and Italy for tours and meetings with other record holders, she said.The title of shortest woman in history continues to be held by Pauline Musters, who lived in the Netherlands from 1876 to 1895 and stood 61 centimeters (24 inches) tall.Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.