Latest Updates in Film: New Projects and Industry Changes
Exclusive Details on Upcoming Horror-Sci-Fi Film ‘The Grove’
Evolution Pictures has commenced worldwide sales for the horror-sci-fi feature, ‘The Grove’. This film centers around a Black Ops soldier who, after participating in a baffling experiment, spirals into madness when he halts his medication. His intended lakeside retreat turns into a harrowing battle for survival. Acoryé White stars in the lead role and also co-wrote and co-directed the film in collaboration with Patrycja Kępa, marking their partnership through their production company, Anchored Lens.
The supporting cast features Carl Anthony Payne, Psalms, Haley Sims, and Guxci. Sales activity for the film will kick off during the Cannes market, where Evolution Pictures will also showcase other upcoming projects, including the thriller ‘Misdirection’, starring Frank Grillo and Olga Kurylenko, as well as the supernatural horror film ‘Oak’, featuring Joey Lauren Adams and Armand Assante. Kate Hoffman, the managing director of Evolution Pictures, expressed excitement about collaborating with White and Kępa, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Acoryé and Patrycja at Anchored Lens on the first of what we hope will be many projects.”
MultiVisionnaire Launches Romantic Comedy ’20 Pounds to Happiness’
MultiVisionnaire Pictures has announced the global sales launch for the romantic comedy ’20 Pounds to Happiness’. The film, directed by and starring Yelyna De León, features performances by Carlo Mendez and Riley Shanahan. The screenplay is crafted by Josefina López, known for her work on ‘Real Women Have Curves’. The narrative centers on a full-figured Latina who must navigate her loyalty to her friends in a support group while grappling with the potential loss of her dream partner. The film will be featured at the Cannes market as part of its promotional efforts.
Leadership Transition at UFA Show
Ute Biernat, a notable figure in Germany’s television landscape, is stepping down from her role as CEO of UFA Show & Factual after an extensive 25-year career. Joining the organization in 1996, Biernat ascended to the CEO position in 2000, overseeing popular formats including Germany’s X Factor and Deutschland Sucht Den Superstar. She also played a significant role in the establishment of UFA Produkció in Hungary. Although she is leaving her current position, Biernat will continue to be involved with UFA in a consulting capacity. In her farewell statement, she acknowledged the collaborative efforts that contributed to the successes achieved under her leadership, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
Miky Lee Receives Ellis Island Medal of Honor
Miky Lee, Vice Chair of CJ Group, has been honored with the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. This award recognizes her contributions to enhancing the global presence of Korean culture, particularly in the entertainment sector. Lee has an impressive background, having produced significant works such as ‘Parasite’ and ‘Past Lives’, fostering cultural links between the U.S. and Korea. The award ceremony is scheduled for May 10, 2025. The Ellis Island Honors Society, which organizes this event, commended Lee for her near three-decade commitment to elevating Korean culture on the international stage. Other honorands for 2025 include notable figures like Adrien Brody and Nobel Prize winners Dr. James Patrick Allison and Dr. Steven Chu.