REVIEW: Arcade Action Wrestling on Xbox One

Arcade Action Wrestling is an old fashioned, over the top (literally) arcade wrestling game. Think the old Wrestlefest game and you get the idea.

Originally known as Chikara Action Arcade Wrestling, but since Chikara closed down, it is no longer associated with the game.

AAW has all your classic moves, Clotheslines, Piledrivers, Body Slams, Shoot Lasers, Wield Lightsabers, yes, all those classic wrestling moves you are fond of.

Read Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/09/review-arcade-action-wrestling-on-xbox.html

GamesMaster is set to make a return to E4 later this year

It's been off our screens for 23 years, but the iconic series, GamesMaster is set to make a return to E4 later this year, in partnership with Oculus Quest 2 from Facebook

In this new E4 Digital Original Commission co-produced by Barcroft TV, a Future PLC company and Alaska TV, the 3x60' series will premiere on E4's YouTube before a linear TX on E4. It is the first fully cross-platform branded entertainment deal of this type from 4Studio.

The series will see celebrities, gaming stars and super fans all take part in challenges, races and epic fights. Through virtual battles across a range of games, the competitors will try everything in their power to claim a legendary Golden Joystick Trophy. But whilst they play, they'll be watched over by the all-knowing GamesMaster, famously portrayed in the original by Sir Patrick Moore.

To introduce GamesMaster into the modern era of gaming, E4 has partnered with Oculus from Facebook to showcase Oculus Quest 2, a VR headset that will elevate the players experiences and break out of the two dimensional.

GamesMaster, a Future PLC brand, launched in January 1992 and ran for seven series. The series was the first British show dedicated to gaming and across the run, became a cultural phenomenon with names such as Ian Wright and Zoe Ball as celebrity guests and a young Simon Amstell as a hopeful contestant.

Sacha Khari, Head of Digital Commissioning at Channel 4 said: "GamesMaster was a household name back in the 90's and this new revamped version for social and E4 retains the elements that made this show so special, whilst also bringing it bang up to date, improving game quality and bringing in fresh and current names to tackle the trickiest GamesMaster challenges yet. "

All episodes will premiere on E4's YouTube, followed by a linear play on E4. Further information on the casting, including the face of the GamesMaster, will be revealed in due course.

The partnership with GamesMaster and Oculus Quest 2 from Facebook was brokered by 4Sales working with Mindshare Invention and also includes a digital ad campaign for All 4.

Trailer released for A Boy Called Christmas, a Sky Original

Christmas comes early with the launch of the main trailer for Gil Kenan's (Monster House, Ghostbusters: Afterlife) live-action magical adventure A Boy Called Christmas, a Sky Original.

The film boasts an incredible ensemble cast including newcomer Henry Lawfull as protagonist, Nikolas, Toby Jones (Infamous, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), Sally Hawkins (The Shape of Water, Paddington 1 & 2), Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids, Wonder Woman 1984), Michiel Huisman (The Haunting of Hill House, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society), Zoe Colletti (Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark), Stephen Merchant (Jojo Rabbit, Fighting With My Family, Logan) Jim Broadbent (Paddington 1 & 2, The Iron Lady) and Maggie Smith (Downton Abbey, Harry Potter) and Indica Watson (Gold Digger, Radioactive).

In A Boy Called Christmas, an ordinary young boy called Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north in search of his father who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. Taking with him a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, Nikolas soon meets his destiny in this magical, comic and endearing story that proves nothing is impossible…

Ol Parker (Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel) and Gil Kenan adapted the screenplay from the bestselling book by Matt Haig, the first of 5 books in the acclaimed series, all of which are published by Canongate Books. The film is produced by STUDIOCANAL with Graham Broadbent and Pete Czernin of BAFTA and Academy Award® winning Blueprint Pictures.

The film will be released on Sky Cinema, on streaming service NOW and in cinemas on 26 November.

Watch Trailer at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/09/trailer-released-for-boy-called.html

PREVIEW: Fling to the Finish on PC (Steam)

As always let me start by stating this game is Early Access, so it is not finished, so my opinions are based on that, and not any finished article.

Fling to the Finish is a co-op game, whereby you and a friend race through obstacle courses, the gimmick here is that you are connected to each other via a stretchy rope. Use the rope to your advantage and you will zoom through courses, but whereas the rope can be your greatest advantage, it can also be your biggest hinderance.

There are over a dozen characters to choose from that fit your mood, lots of levels to complete.

So, the question is, in its early state, is it any good? Well, the answer to that is yes. Ok there are problems, the graphics can be a bit glitchy at times, the online matchmaking isn't the best, and the single player mode can be tricky to get the hang of. But the general idea is a good one, and hopefully as the game makers further develop the game and fix the bugs, the game can only improve.

Read More at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/09/preview-fling-to-finish-on-pc-steam.html

REVIEW: Orbibot on Xbox One

Recently we seem to have been spoiled with the release of various ball-rolling physics puzzle type games.

The latest to make its way to the mainstream is Orbibot, you control a ball shaped robot, and you have to reach a certain point to complete a level.

Sounds simple right? Wrong! As you play you will have to hit buttons, switch on or off lazers, move barrels or metal balls and open doors to reach the end of the level, which is a teleportation device.

Full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/09/review-orbibot-on-xbox-one.html

Channel 4 confirms psychological suspense drama, Close To Me, starring Christopher Eccleston, Connie Nielsen, Susan Lynch and Leanne Best will air in the autumn

Close to Me is the 6 x 60' story of Jo Harding (Connie Nielsen), a woman who seems to have it all – a beautiful house in the country, a loving family and Rob, her devoted husband (Christopher Eccleston). But following a fall, an entire year suddenly vanishes from Jo's memory. As she struggles to piece events together, Jo discovers that her life wasn't quite as perfect as she imagined – and that someone will do all they can to keep a terrible secret from her. Close to Me is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by author Amanda Reynolds.

Their children, Finn and Sash, are played by Tom Taylor (Us, Doctor Foster) and Rosy McEwen (The Letter Writer, The Angel of Darkness). Jo's best friend Cathy is played by Susan Lynch (Save Me, Unforgotten), while Leanne Best (Young Wallander, Cold Feet) stars as Rob's co-worker Anna. High-profile Danish actor Henning Jensen (When the Dust Settles, Countdown Copenhagen) features as Jo's father Frederik, while Ellie Haddington (Enola Holmes, Motherland) plays her neighbour Wendy. Ray Fearon (Da Vinci's Demons, His Dark Materials) plays Jo's boss Nick and Nick Blood (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Strike) stars as Sash's boyfriend Thomas. Jamie Flatters (Liar, So Awkward) plays Owen and Lorraine Burroughs (Hard Sun, The Five) stars as Helen.

Julia Davis, Charlie Cooper and David Avery to guest star in season 3 of Channel 4 and Roughcut TV's Stath Lets Flats

Filming has wrapped on Channel 4's critically acclaimed and triple BAFTA-winning comedy Stath Lets Flats, from the award-winning Roughcut TV.  The series is written and created by Jamie Demetriou, who returns in the lead role of Stath. Season three will feature some stellar guest stars, including Julia Davis (Nighty Night) who appears in one episode as Kris, Carole's belittling and snobbish sister; David Avery (We Are Lady Parts) plays Bambos, Stath's flash barber cousin …and Charlie Cooper (This Country) plays Gregory - a lettings agent who is passionately devoted to his wife and runs a rival agency called Live Love Lets.

The returning cast includes Natasia Demetriou (What We Do In The Shadows), Kiell Smith-Bynoe (Ghosts), Katy Wix (The Windsors), Ellie White (The Other One), Al Roberts (Feel Good) and Christos Stergioglou (Dogtooth) as Stath's father, Vasos. Season three will also see the following guest cast back; Emmy nominated Nick Mohammed (Ted Lasso), David Mumeni (Dead Pixels) and Tom Stourton (Siblings).  The new series will air later this year on Channel 4 and will be available on All 4.

The third series will pick up where the second finished with a shocking cliff-hanger as incompetent letting agent Stath (Demetriou) is faced with rescuing the family business, Michael & Eagle, and his relationship with Katia (White), while expecting his first child by Carole (Wix). Meanwhile his sister, Sophie (Natasia Demetriou), and best friend, Al (Roberts), deal with the fallout of finally declaring their feelings for each other.

Jamie Demetriou commented: "Times are the worst they have been in living memory, but fear not, a sitcom about a lettings agency is back for a third series! All the characters (bar a few who had availability issues) are back and saying stuff aaaall over again! Get ready to hear what they say! Listen closely and you might even hear a thing or 2 from some new celebrated guest stars. Did somebody say…. the whole England football team?? No, it'll be comedy actors!"

Sky reveals first look and premiere date for highly anticipated documentary Hawking: Can You Hear Me?

California 1974. Family photograph. Copyright Hawking Estate

Sky has today revealed an exclusive first look image, a never-seen-before family photograph, for highly anticipated Sky Original documentary Hawking: Can You Hear Me? The 90-min theatrical documentary, which explores the remarkable human story of Professor Stephen Hawking through unprecedented access to his family and their private archives, is set to premiere on Sky Documentaries and NOW on Monday 20 September.

This never-seen-before family photograph features Professor Stephen Hawking with his then wife Jane, son Robert and daughter Lucy on their California estate in 1974.

The world-famous cosmologist, Stephen Hawking, died in March of 2018. Now his family, friends and colleagues speak candidly, for the first time, about the unseen world behind Hawking's rise to the status of gilded genius and international icon. What was the true human cost – to himself and those around him – of his genius? This documentary explores the incredible life of this iconic physicist, but also the untold human story.

This is the story of Stephen Hawking's life told not by historians, biographers or commentators, but by the people who were there at the time; the people in the room with him. Scenes from critical and defining moments in his life are told by the people who were present as the events and discoveries unfolded, and who were directly impacted by his triumphs and tragedies.

Contributors include Stephen's children Robert, Lucy and Tim, and his first wife Jane, alongside a raft of renowned scientists who consider him an inspiration, a role-model, a peer, and a friend, for a fascinatingly well-rounded portrait of the scientist, the family man, and all the facets of Stephen's life.

REVIEW: Deadly Days - Xbox

Deadly Days is the latest rogue-lite game from Pixel Split Games. You play within a zombie apocalypse, because, well, why not. You are in charge of a group of survivors and you have to try to stop the catastrophe, survive and play through procedurally generated cities and missions.

The basic gameplay consists of controlling your characters around the map, looking for loot, while at the same time fighting off waves of zombies. Once you collect everything an area has to give, you return to your base to drop off everything you found.

To loot a building, a character will by targeting to enter, while other characters will remain outside to defend against the zombies. The defending and fighting of the zombies is done automatically, think of the game more as you managing a group of characters, as opposed to you actively controlling their actions.

Did I mention apples? These are of upmost importance, you will use apples to level up your characters, keep them well fed, and so on.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/08/review-deadly-days-xbox.html

The Real Dirty Dancing to be hosted by Ashley Roberts and Keith Lemon

Ten celebrities are in for the time of their life as they're transported back to the swinging 60s for an immersive and nostalgia packed dance experience like no other – The Real Dirty Dancing (W/T), produced by Thames (a Fremantle label) is coming to E4 in 2022.

Co-hosted by Dirty Dancing superfan Keith Lemon and Heart FM showbiz host and Pussycat Doll Ashley Roberts, across eight episodes, The Real Dirty Dancing (W/T), will follow 10 famous faces as they move into a stunning Lakeside location reminiscent of the original Kellermans resort, where their dance moves will be well and truly put to the test. In couples, they'll compete as they take on challenges and dance routines based on iconic scenes from the classic film. Each couple has one thing in common – they all want to be the last Baby and Johnny standing.

The celebs will need to prove themselves as they take part in entertaining challenges that'll require them to embody the characters from the cult classic, as they work around the clock to discover their inner Johnny or Baby. There'll be no spaghetti arms as they attempt to learn and perform routines inspired by iconic moments, from 'Hungry Eyes' to the jaw dropping Mambo dance, but can they muster the strength for the lake lift, or the elegance required to balance on a fallen log? One thing is for sure, watermelon carrying skills are essential.

The celebrities will be dancing with various partners throughout the course of the show. Inspired by the Australian series of the same name, The Real Dirty Dancing (W/T) will culminate in the showstopping finale where the top two couples take on the moment every fan dreams of – the last dance of the season, with that gravity defying lift! The remaining six celebrities will become backing dancers in this one-off celebratory performance.

Keith Lemon said: "Dirty Dancing is such a good film and of course I've been Baby myself! Twice now! Once for Let's Dance for Comic Relief and once when we did it on The Keith & Paddy Picture Show. So yeah I was chuffed to be asked to host this show! And to be hosting with me mate Ashley! It's gonna be so fun! Ya can tell how excited I am, look how many exclamation marks I've used! Can't wait!"                                                                        

Ashley Roberts said: "I LOVE Dirty Dancing, the film literally had a huge impact on my life, and I couldn't be more excited to be involved in this series. I'm going to be on hand to help out the celebs with their Johnny and Baby moves and look forward to being reunited with Keith. Wish me luck! It's going to be a lot of fun."

Channel 4 adds late-night topical discussion show Unapologetic to The Black to Front Project line up

A late-night topical discussion programme, Unapologetic, has been added to Channel 4's The Black to Front Project content line up. Produced by SBTV and Cardiff Productions, the 1x60 programme will be hosted by DJ and presenter Yinka Bokinni and social media star and presenter Zeze Millz.

In a world where you can be cancelled at a moment's notice, Unapologetic is a show where guests will be encouraged to say what they want to say without apologising for it. This isn't a show about Black people, this is the show where Black people talk freely about everything. It will offer new views on existing subjects as well as bringing new subjects and voices to the table.

Featuring guests from the worlds of politics and popular culture as well as the people who've been at the heart of controversies themselves, the programme will challenge ideas of what Black people are allowed to say and what is off-limits. Tackling topics such as Black Lives Matter, football, racism, colourism, and what's making news on social media, Unapologetic won't hold back.

PREVIEW: Glitchpunk Early Access

Before I start let me make it clear that the game is Early Access, for those who do not know, that means it is not finished, and often nowhere near finished, it means the game is barebones, something that the developers can release that lets people play the game, and in turn help them find bugs, get ideas, improve gameplay and so on.

It is a bit like releasing the first chapter draft of a book you are writing, so please keep all of this in mind any time you play an Early Access title.

Onto the game itself, Glitchpunk is a top-down action game, think the original GTA games but in a dystopian future. I really hate the word dystopian; everything has to be dystopian these days! come on guys, be original!

Full Preview at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/08/preview-glitchpunk-early-access.html

Spencer - First Teaser Trailer

The marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles has long since grown cold. Though rumours of affairs and a divorce abound, peace is ordained for the Christmas festivities at the Queen's Sandringham Estate. There's eating and drinking, shooting and hunting. Diana knows the game. But this year, things will be a whole lot different. SPENCER is an imagining of what might have happened during those few fateful days

SPENCER will be released in UK & Irish cinemas later this year following its World Premiere at the Venice Film Festival on 3 September

Watch Teaser Trailer at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/08/spencer-first-teaser-trailer.html

REVIEW: Seed of Life on PC (Steam)

Seed Of Life is the latest action-adventure game from MadLight, You play as Cora, the last survivor of a dying world called Lumia, your world was ravaged by aliens who are stealing the planet's life force. Your job is to activate "The Seed" a device that will save your planet and regenerate the very life force of the planet.

You play in a 3rd person viewpoint, from just behind the character, as you explore, you will come across Talisman Capsules that help you learn new abilities that will help you on your way, collect Lumium to upgrade yourself, and collect various items. You have an alien assistant called Nar. As you play you will have to solve puzzles and generally get from one waypoint to the next.

The game plays in a semi open world environment, there is plenty to explore, and you need to watch out for toxic environments that will slowly drain your health, the game does not hold your hand too much, and you will need to figure things out for yourself, that will be good for some people, and for others you may miss being told exactly what to do.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/08/review-seed-of-life-on-pc-steam.html

Claudia Winkleman to host Channel 4 gameshow with only One Question

The series will see Claudia Winkleman invite a pair of contestants to answer just a single question to win a £100,000 prize. The contestants will be faced with twenty possible answers, but only one answer is correct. Eliminate the incorrect answers and they'll be on the path to victory, but eliminate the one correct answer and it's game over.

Host Claudia Winkleman comments: "I am ridiculously excited about One Question. There's no time limit, no buzzers, no complicated rules. A sofa, a chat, just one question that could win our players £100k. Not only that, we give them the answer. Tricky part is we give them 19 wrong answers too. I've bought a new black sweater and the studio has a toasted sandwich maker. I can't wait."

New three-part series Freddie’s First Eleven (w/t) set to give Flintoff his biggest challenge yet

Sporting hero Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff is taking on what might be the biggest challenge of his entire career: he's going to attempt to set up on one of the country's most unlikely cricket teams.

On his roster: 11 talented teens from some of the most underprivileged parts of his native Lancashire. They have never played cricket before in their lives and probably haven't even considered it, deeming cricket as the domain of the posh and the privileged. Freddie's goal is simple: to prove that anyone can find camaraderie, confidence and success playing the sport he loves. Success is by no means guaranteed, but whatever happens, Freddie is setting out to change their lives and the future of the game he so adores.

Freddie says: "I made it to the highest level of cricket attending state schools on an estate in Preston, but I can't see many others doing that now. The vast majority of the England's men's national cricket team attended private school. Cricket is more elitist per head than rugby, rowing and the House of Lords. We've got to do something to get young, working-class people playing our national summer sport again. I really hope this series can demonstrate that with some time and coaching anyone can learn to love cricket and have the opportunities that came my way."

When The Screaming Starts - New comedy-horror set for World Premiere at FrightFest this Augus

When the Screaming Starts, will have its World Premiere at FrightFest this August. Described as "If Louis Theroux met the Manson Family", the film will debut alongside this year's most prestigious and hotly anticipated horrors and thrillers at Leicester Square's Cineworld on 28th August. The film will have two additional screenings, one later that night and another on Sunday 29th.

 

The film includes Yasen Atour, who will star alongside Henry Cavill in the second season of The Witcher, as well as up and coming talent Ed Hartland (The Crown), Octavia Gilmore (For Sale) and Jared Rogers (making his second appearance at FrightFest following 2018's Killer Weekend).

When The Screaming Starts marks the feature debut of filmmaker Conor Boru, and was overseen by a production team which includes Dom Lenoir, who directed and produced the award-winning thriller Winter Ridge.

More info at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/08/when-screaming-starts-new-comedy-horror.html

The Last Leg Returns To Its Roots For The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

The Last Leg returns to its roots this August taking pride of place at the heart of Channel 4's prime-time schedule throughout the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, bringing together 12 episodes of top-level sporting action and award-winning entertainment.

Adam Hills, Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe will present The Last Leg of Tokyo 2020 (12x60') live daily at 10pm on Channel 4 from the BT Studios in the heart of London's Olympic Village in Stratford, rounding-up and reflecting on the biggest sporting stories of the day.

Comedian Rosie Jones will be the show's roving reporter, bringing all the latest news from the ground in Tokyo. Rosie originally started her TV career as a researcher on The Last Leg for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Special guests will join the boys in the studio each episode including friends and family of the Paralympians. The show will also connect with Japan for live links and interviews with the competitors and medal winners.

Not ones to miss out on the action, The Last Leg of Tokyo 2020 will also see the boys have a shot and compete in 12 different Paralympic sports filmed at the London Olympic Stadium across three days. The sports will include wheelchair tennis, blind running, archery, wheelchair volleyball, kayaking, swimming, blind cycling plus many more. Representing GB will be Josh and Alex, while Adam will represent Australia, along with some special guest comedians as his honorary teammates.

Yakuza Princess - Trailer

Synopsis:

Prepare for all-out martial arts action with Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Vikings) in Yakuza Princess. A crime boss is murdered in cold blood and his only heir is sent abroad as an infant. 20 years pass and now, rival gangs are out to kill as this young woman discovers her birth right at the head of a crime syndicate. Fighting for her life she teams up with an American man trying to discover his own past - one epic fight at a time. Also starring Tsuyoshi Ihara (Letters from Iwo Jima) and Kenny Leu (Midway), Yakuza Princess is directed by Vicente Amorim (The Division), adapted from the graphic novel Shiro by Danilo Beyruth.

Signature Entertainment presents Yakuza Princess on Digital Platforms 13th September

Watch Trailer

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/08/yakuza-princess-trailer.html

The Pebble and The Boy - First Look at Poster & Trailer for New British Film in Cinemas August 27

Inspired by Mod-culture, The Pebble And The Boy will be released in cinemas nationwide from Friday August 27, and available On Demand later in the year.

The film was written and directed by Chris Green (Me, Myself and Di) and stars Patrick McNamee (Our Girl), Sacha Parkinson (Coronation Street), Max Boast (Sex Education), Patsy Kensit (Emmerdale), Ricci Harnett (Rise of the Footsoldier) and Jesse Birdsall (Hollyoaks).

A boy, his Dad's ashes and a Lambretta scooter...John embarks on a journey from Manchester to Brighton, the spiritual home of the Mods, to scatter his late father's ashes.

The film features tracks from Paul Weller, The Jam, The Style Council, Secret Affair and The Chords. The title of the film is taken from the final track on Weller's eighth studio album, As Is Now.

Watch Trailer

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/08/the-pebble-and-boy-first-look-at-poster.html

Interview with Paul Hyett - Director of Werewolf movie HOWL

As AVOD film site W4Free unleashes bloodthirsty Werewolf movie HOWL, director Paul Hyett reflects on the importance of story-telling, the career effects of the pandemic and what horror films have caught his eye lately.

Q: Looking back on the production of HOWL, what stands out for you in terms of the directorial experience?

It was a real learning experience with the sheer number of VFX shots. And what I can do on set to make the VFX guys workload easier, for example, getting practical plate shots. Also, working on a green screen set. I think that's what made it stand out to me, the pure logistical way of filming on a train set build, on a green screen set with hundreds of visual effects and tying everything together so it works.

Full Interview at 

http://www.mastersofhorror.co.uk/2021/07/interview-with-paul-hyett-director-of.html

GAMING REVIEW: The Innsmouth Case on Nintendo Switch

In 2021 you don't really get many text-based adventure games, especially not on a console like the Nintendo Switch, but with The Innsmouth Case that is exactly what you are getting. Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft, The Innsmouth Case is a horror/comedy adventure.

The gameplay itself is literally reading and following a book on screen, there are 35 chapters, and 27 different endings, so for those of you old enough, this is basically the same as those old 'choose your own adventure' books, where you would skip back and forth to different pages to follow the story, dependent on the choices you make.

On a console though, there is no cheating.

Here is a brief breakdown of the story:

"A desperate mother, a missing girl and a mystical place - a case could hardly be more challenging. To solve the enigmatic disappearance of little Tabitha Marsh, however, the toughest and cleverest detective of all is wanted... but he does not have the time - and so the job goes to you. This mysterious assignment takes you to the remote fishing village of Innsmouth, where nothing is what it seems…

Save the girl, solve the case, survive Innsmouth!"

Read Full Review

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2021/07/review-innsmouth-case-on-nintendo-switch.html

Hollyoaks commence filming Channel 4-commissioned special hour-long episode, directed by Patrick Robinson

Hollyoaks commence filming Channel 4-commissioned special hour-long episode, directed by Patrick Robinson to air on Friday 10 September

'Overstanding other people's cultures, I believe, is one giant step towards an inclusive society and drama is one of the best tools to do that.' – Patrick Robinson

'Once cultural differences are understood, this can often dissipate hatred, racism or bigotry simply, by telling truthful stories we can all relate to.' – Kelle Bryan

Filming has commenced on an hour-long special that will play a pivotal part in Channel 4's Black to Front, the ground-breaking diversity project culminating in a special day of content on Friday September 10th. Across the day Channel 4 will broadcast programming fronted by Black talent and featuring Black contributors, to champion Black voices and stories, and the incredible Black talent that make, shape and star in British TV.

Planned over a year, and working with numerous production partners, Black to Front is part of Channel 4's on-going commitment to improve Black representation on and off screen. From breakfast right through to late night, some of Channel 4's most iconic shows will have Black talent at the forefront, offering viewers a new perspective of much-loved programmes.

Hollyoaks will air a special episode - written by Hollyoaks core team writer Thabo Mhlatshwa - anchored around the pivotal Black Deveraux family and joined by characters past, present and future, played by Black and of Black heritage talent.

It will be directed by Patrick Robinson, whom fans of continuing drama will know from his early acting career playing consultant Martin 'Ash' Ashford in Casualty for a number of years. He first began directing in 1998 on the short film, Monument, also playing the lead character. This will be his first major directorial debut for a continuing drama.

Patrick said: "I'm very excited to be directing this hour long special of Hollyoaks, featuring characters who share my background and heritage.

"Overstanding other people's cultures, I believe is one giant step towards an inclusive society and Drama is one of the best tools to do that. Music, Dance and Art also play a vital part in giving greater insight basically because we feel it…Heart, body and soul.

"Love is the theme of the episode, which I hope we can all relate to. And my litmus test for any good work? Did I feel…"

Interview with Mo Gilligan – The Lateish Show: Series 2 Friday 23rd July, 10PM

Since The Lateish Show's debut in July 2019, you've won BAFTA and RTS Awards, joined the judging panel on The Masked Singer and Dancer, written a book, presented a series from home, fronted a documentary, announced your There's Mo To Life tour, filmed Celebrity Gogglebox with Babatundé Aléshé and we've been through a pandemic. So not busy at all then?

A lot has happened in my life since we were last doing this show really! It was quite weird because just after we finished recording the last episode of Lateish series one, we announced the Netflix Momentum special and the new tour, then pandemic hit. It's so good to finally be back doing my own show!  I love getting involved in every part of it, being back in the studio with the team – and we're back bigger than ever now for Series 2!

It's been two years since the first series of The Lateish Show aired. How are the nerves? Or are you raring to go?

I am raring to go man! I've been waiting, like we all have, but the fact I'm now able to have The Lateish Show back with an audience… I'm counting down the days! I can't wait to get back into the studio and show everyone what's we've been working on.  

Do you see The Lateish Show as being an antidote to the news?

Not really to the news – I see Lateish as a bit of escapism. I've always wanted to make a show where, regardless of what's going on in the world, you get to switch off for a bit and watch something which is a bit silly, a bit fun, puts you in a good mood and sets you up for the weekend.

What can we expect from the new series?

We're coming back BIG! We've got some big new gameshow items which I think people are going to love. Everyone's favourite rave game Nursery Grimes is back with added surprises. We've got some insanely good guest appearances as well. With this show, I always love to have guests that come from so many different worlds. I mean last series we had Steve Coogan on with Jessie J and Tyson Fury, David Schwimmer on with Jada Pinkett Smith! And of course we'll have amazing prizes – that's the thing I really love, being able to give some really brilliant prizes away to the Great British Public.

You had some amazing guests in the first series – David Schwimmer, Riz Ahmed, Kelis, Jada Pinkett Smith and Tyson Fury. How do you top that? Who's on the wish list?

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson would be high up on the wish list, he was a childhood hero. I'd love to see Adele do Nursery Grimes – she'd be dope! If those guys are free man, I'm all here for it!

You've had some time on your hands to make the games even more bonkers. How mad have you gone this time round?

We always try to keep the games as simple and as silly as possible, because what we really want is everyone to play along at home. It's like Nursery Grimes – that's something you can really play at home with the whole family! I can't wait for everyone to see the new games we're launching this series as well.

Do we get to find out what some of your characters have been up to during the pandemic?

Oh yeah, most definitely. Some of my most prominent comedy characters will be making a big return and it's really great to have them back in ways viewers have never seen before.

It's always been a priority to you to make the series interactive, and ensure the audience are just as important as the guests. Will we see more of that in this series? I believe you're going out on the streets too.

Yes, for a big Series 2 first, we are taking ourselves outside the studio and heading all over the country. The viewing audience will have a chance to win some great prizes, but we'll also be rocking up on people's doorsteps unannounced, giving them some chances to win too. People have been inside their houses for the last 18 months, so it just makes sense to go to them now!

Are you looking forward to being back on stage this year?

Yeah man! I love performing on stage, doing my stand up, so I can't wait to be back on tour with There's Mo to Life later this year. If there's ever a time to do comedy, where people really want to come out, this is it. The cool thing with a comedy tour is just being able to bring joy to people's lives for about an hour and 20 mins. A lot of us comics feel the same – it's bought a lot of us together and we're all saying, 'have you been back on stage yet?.  I was talking to Joel Dommett recently and he was saying the same thing!

How did it feel hearing your name read out as the BAFTA Award winner?

Ah man, it was incredible. It was one of those moments that I'll always remember. At first I just said to people I'm just really happy to be nominated and as we got closer, I thought oh maybe I can win this…? When my name got read out, it was just amazing.  As it was for Entertainment Performance, I felt like it was for everyone who helped out with the show, came to the show, participated in the show, told a friend about it – it was their BAFTA a little bit. As much as I won it, a lot of other people won it with me and for me – it just felt really special, because some people have been part of this journey from the start of my comedy journey. It was a very special moment.

Where do you keep your trophy?

Actually ironically, I keep it right next to the TV! It feels quite fitting that sometimes when I'm watching TV I just sneak it a few glances…

You and fellow stand-up Babatundé Aleshe have become firm favourites on Celebrity Gogglebox. What have been the best and worst shows you've had to watch?

We had to watch Dr Pimple Popper and oh my god, it's so horrible. Why would you even make the show?! It's absolutely disgusting and now every time I get a spot, I think I better pop it now just in case it turns into a growth! They also put horror films on as they know me and Babatundé will always scream at them and the viewers love that! I get so engrossed in horrors too even though I hate them. It's been so lovely doing it with Babatundé, he's been a good friend of mine for a number of years and will be supporting me on tour later this year, so it was a no brainer to do Gogglebox with him. We have a real laugh.

We also saw you front your own documentary, Black British and Funny, last year on Channel 4. What was it like being able to assemble so many legends of Black British comedy in one place?

It was an honour and something I've wanted to do since first becoming a comic. Trying to do a documentary with these icons that I grew up watching was amazing, and the public responded so beautifully. My goal in making it was that if anyone in future needs to research or understand what Black British comedy was about, this is your starting point. I wanted people to be educated on where it started, and I'm so pleased it was so well received. A lot of the big comedy names featured in the Doc will also be appearing at my O2 Arena show this December!

You were on The Masked Singer & Dancer with fellow chat show host Jonathan Ross. Did you ask him for any tips? Or did he ask you for any?

Jonathan is one of my favourite people in entertainment. He has the best stories. I've never asked him for tips, but he's been in the business since before I was born, and his stories are like sitting down with your dad and asking things like 'so what was it like when you got to meet Prince?' He loves a name drop. He told me he'd did a show a few years ago in Monaco and I was like 'Nice! Who was performing?' and he just replies with 'Well I was performing, and Stevie Wonder.' I'd love to get him on the Lateish show, he's always a really good laugh.

If you could go back five years and speak to the Mo Gilligan who was working in retail and doing homemade sketches on Instagram, what would you tell him?

It's hard because I wouldn't want to tell him anything. The Mo Gilligan that was working in retail was grinding to get to this point, so I wouldn't want to tell him anything that would throw him off course. Maybe just trust the process. Working in retail has helped me so much because the level of hard work you put into those 12 hour shifts is the same when you're on stage and you want to entertain people and make sure everyone's happy.

Do you think that Mo Gilligan would believe where you are today?

There's a bit of me that says yes and a bit that says no. I think he could have seen it happen but not this quickly. A lot has happened in the last four or five years where I look back and I'm like oh my god, I've done that, and that, and that... Sometimes I do pinch myself when looking through my camera roll and thinking oh wow, I remember doing that, that was awesome. I've been lucky enough to travel the world and go to places I never thought I'd get to. There's still so much I want to try and accomplish though!

Channel 4 announces cast for animated Christmas special ‘Terry Pratchett's The Abominable Snow Baby’ from Eagle Eye Drama

Channel 4 has announced a trio of top stars to head up their high-profile Christmas 2021 animated special Terry Pratchett's The Abominable Snow Baby produced by Eagle Eye Drama, the production company recently launched by the team behind global drama brand Walter Presents, in association with Narrativia, the independent production company, launched in 2012 by one of Britain's most illustrious and well-loved authors, Sir Terry Pratchett.

Terry Pratchett's The Abominable Snow Baby, based on one of legendary author Sir Terry's best-selling short stories tells the story of a quintessentially English town which is thrown into disarray by a huge snowfall and the dramatic appearance of a 14-feet tall Abominable Snow Baby. Shunned and feared by the local townsfolk, Snow Baby is rescued by an indomitable Granny who along with grandson Albert, welcomes him into her home, showering her new pet with love and affection, changing the town's perception and helping the community overcome their initial prejudices.

Screen legend and comedy icon Julie Walters (Harry Potter, Mamma Mia, Paddington) will star as the voice of fearless 'Granny', whilst Hugh Dancy (Black Hawk Down, Ella Enchanted, Hannibal, Downton Abbey 2) will take on the role of her courageous grandson 'Albert' with narration from 'Homeland' star David Harewood (Homeland, Supergirl, Blood Diamond)

Out of Death - Starring Bruce Willis

ILY FIlms today confirmed that their latest action thriller, Out of Death, is set to be released on Digital Download from August 2nd and on DVD from October 4th.

 

Directed by Mike Burns, who makes his feature film debut, Out of Death stars the legendary action icon Bruce Willis (Die Hard), Jaime King (Sin City, My Bloody Valentine) and Lala Kent (Hard Kill, Vault).

 

Still grieving the untimely death of her father, photojournalist Shannon Mathers (Jamie King) spreads his ashes in the woods when she witnesses a cop (Lala Kent) shooting and killing an unarmed henchman during a drug deal. She captures the whole scene on her camera before being discovered. Shot at, scared, helpless and on the run, she races her way through the woods with no recognition of her location.

 

Distracted by the violent noise of the attack, Jack Harris (Bruce Willis) a newly retired police officer who is relaxing at his cabin, saves Shannon just in time and the two narrowly escape into the woods. Not sure of whom she can trust, as more dirty cops arrive to help hunt her down, including the brutal town sheriff Hank Rivers (Michael Sirow), she decides to rely on Jack, her only real chance to fight back the corrupt police and bring it to justice.

 

Director of ILY FIlms, Richard Lechartier, says "We are delighted to be releasing Out of Death in the UK. It's a tense action-packed thriller and we are sure the audiences will love seeing Bruce Willis back to his best".

Out of Death will be available on Digital Download from August 2nd and DVD from October 4th

Watch Trailer

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/07/out-of-death-starring-bruce-willis.html

Channel 4 invites viewers’ feedback in new series Complaints Welcome

Channel 4 has commissioned Rumpus Media to make Complaints Welcome (w/t), a new comedy entertainment series putting viewers' opinions at the heart of the show.

Comedians Tom Allen, Jessica Knappett and Munya Chawawa, will join forces to assemble a "Complaints Committee" of viewers with plenty to say about the television shows getting the nation talking each week. From daytime to documentaries, preschool to politics – no genre of TV is off-limits.

Munya Chawawa (in his first prime time series on Channel 4), Jessica Knappett (Taskmaster, The Inbetweeners Movie) and Tom Allen (Bake Off: The Professionals, Quizness) will be joined in the studio each week by guests from the world of telly as they playfully dissect the week's televisual complaints, looking for resolutions, and ultimately deciding whether the viewers' feedback will be upheld or rejected. The show will feature sketches, stunts and studio discussion covering all aspects of TV.

Tom Allen comments: "Jess, Munya and I will be putting TV on trial. If you've got an opinion on anything from the corsets in Bridgerton to a frown about Countdown, we want to hear from you. Complaints Welcome will be standing by to review the reviews viewing viewers viewed."

Complaints Welcome will air later this year on Channel 4.

Channel 4 have commissioned Flicker Productions to make a 1x60 film exploring social media, racism and football, fronted by Jermaine Jenas

There have been growing calls for social media companies to address online trolling after nearly 2,000 discriminatory abusive tweets targeted Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Raheem Sterling in the 24 hours after the Euros final. For the last six months Jermaine Jenas has been tackling the issues head on, by confronting the people who hide behind their screens, interviewing Premier League footballers on the receiving end of the abuse and discussing his own personal experiences.

Jermaine Jenas says, "This film is incredibly important to me and something I've been working on for a while. there has been an ongoing conversation surrounding racism and football for as long as I can remember, and the reactions to the Euros has been heart-breaking. I've felt sick to my stomach reading the comments and chants and promise to make it my mission to help create positive change... @instagram @twitter @facebook and all the other social platforms out there, we have to hold these trolls accountable, we have to do better."

Baddiel and Skinner join Adam, Alex and Josh for a 90-minute Euro 2020 special of The Last Leg this Friday

After 55 years of hurt, could football finally be coming home?

Last Leg of the Euros with Baddiel and Skinner, a 90 minute extended episode of the multi award-winning The Last Leg, will probe that very question this Friday at 10pm. Adam Hills, Josh Widdicombe and Alex Brooker will be joined live in the studio by none other than the Three Lions comedic heroes David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and legendary band The Lightning Seeds as they count down to the must see event of the year – the England v Italy Euro 2020 final.

With our enduring love affair for unofficial national anthem, Three Lions at an all-time high, the team will celebrate its 25th anniversary and ask whether Baddiel, Skinner & The Lightning Seeds might need to pen a new song come Monday morning…

Comedian Tom Allen, former Tory Party co-chairwoman Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and some surprise guests will also join the gang for an epic night of footballing fun, acerbic wit, unmatched satirical insight – and quite possibly, a monumental end of the show musical performance.

As ever, the hashtag #isitok will also play a key role in the night's proceedings.

Last Leg of the Euros with Baddiel & Skinner

Friday 9th July at 10pm on Channel 4

'Joy Womack: The White Swan' feature documentary on the prima ballerina releases on digital 19 July 2021

Experience the joy and pain of professional ballet with Joy Womack: The White Swan, an intimate look at the journey of professional ballerina Joy Womack from her humble beginnings in Texas to performing as prima ballerina with the Kremlin Ballet. This beautiful and insightful film dances on to digital on 19 July 2021 courtesy of 101 Films.

Joy Womack is lauded as one of the greatest ballerinas in the world, and now a brand-new evocative documentary follows her early family life in Texas and sees her passion and drive that takes her to the top of her profession to become a world-class ballet dancer.

More info at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2021/07/joy-womack-white-swan-feature.html