Latest from CinemaBlend in Kristen-wiig

I Can't Stop Thinking About This Unhinged Bridesmaids Scene With Kristen Wiig That Nearly Made The Movie

Carly Levy — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 23:06:00 +0000

Bridesmaids is one of the best movies of the 2010s, thanks to its fantastic women-led cast and it's absolutly hilarious story. It also features so many outlandish scenarios that make it unforgettable, like the infamous gross-out bridal shopping scene, an aggressive game of tennis, and a Parisian bridal shower gone wrong. However, there was one unhinged Bridesmaids scene featuring Kristen Wiig that didn’t make it into the final cut, and I can’t stop thinking about it.

So, in the Paul Feig flick, Lillian and her bridesmaids plan a bachelorette party in Las Vegas, but they never make it there due to a drugged-out Annie causing a scene on the flight. However, in the original script, the gang did make it to Las Vegas. Explaining the call they got from Judd Apatow about cutting the sequence, co-screenwriter Annie Mumolo said on Radio Andy:

And he called us in literally about a month before we started shooting and was like, ‘All right, have a seat.’ And Judd was like, 'I'm cutting Vegas.' It was almost 60 pages. He was like, ‘I'm cutting Vegas.’ And we were like, ‘OK.’ Then he was like, ‘We need to do something where they don't get there. Just try over the weekend. Maybe they're just, I don't know, see what happens over the weekend, maybe they’re just on the plane or something.’ So, again, very pregnant. I did about two hours of uncontrollable sobbing and then was like, ‘OK, we got to go.’ Kristen was in New York, so we got on the phone and wrote the airplane scene, which is one of my favorites by far.

I can understand the uncontrollable sobbing if 60 pages of a script went down the drain. At the same time, I can understand why Judd Apatow wanted to take it out. As Mumolo explained, around the time of Bridesmaids’ release, there were many great movies about Las Vegas coming out, like The Hangover, What Happens in Vegas, and 21. So, it’s possible Apatow didn’t want to follow the comedy trend.

Plus, ultimately, this rewrite was amazing because it led to the iconic airplane scene, which features some of the film’s best one-liners and is totally unique to this comedy.

However, for curious minds, here’s what the original Vegas scene entailed; it’s wild:

Well, [Annie] couldn't afford the trip everyone else went on. So she had to stay in a different hotel, and they get split up from the get-go almost. She ends up in a different club, where she meets a nice gentleman and has a thing with him, an adventure. Then his girlfriend shows up where they are, and she gets into a fight with a group of young community college students.

Well, that sounds like quite the trip! It also would have fit right in with the outlandish and slapstick moments in Bridesmaids. So, even though I already think the movie is perfect, there's another part of me that wants to see Annie's sidequest in Vegas.

Now, if you thought the possibility of Annie getting beaten up by community college girls was crazy, her story in Sin City isn't over:

So we had that. She comes dragging in with a black eye the next morning, and they had all just gone to the spa. She was looking for them bar to bar, meets someone, and then just gets the shit kicked out of her. So that's what was there. There were a couple other things in there, but the gist of it was getting split off and having a different trip than the rest of the bachelorette party.

Talk about a Vegas trip gone wrong. This truly sounds wild, and part of me would love to see this trip made into a short film.

However, I have to admit, I feel like the airplane scene is ultimately better. Annie went through the wringer throughout Bridesmaids as she had to compete with Helen for Lillian’s friendship, dealt with romance troubles, and was down on herself after her bakery didn't work out. Having Annie endure a black eye while all of her friends were living a luxurious life at a spa would have been more tragic for me than funny.

So, in the end, what was supposed to happen in Vegas never did. However, because of that, we got a hilarious airplane scene that made us all “ready to partay with the best of them!”

You can revisit one of the best rom-coms of all time by streaming Bridesmaids with a Starz subscription.

'I Don't Want To See Any Vomit.' Kristen Wiig On How Bridesmaid's Infamous Bridal Shopping Scene Actually Came Together

Eric Eisenberg — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 01:56:09 +0000

Fifteen years after Bridesmaids originally hit theaters, the food poisoning scene remains a moment that can be recalled with vivid clarity when reflecting on the film. While gross-out material is stereotypically aimed at male audiences, the Kristen Wiig movie did well to shatter that idea. It’s a wonderful and key part of the beloved modern comedy, which makes it all the more surprising to learn that it was a relatively late addition to the script.

Vanity Fair recently brought Wiig and co-star Rose Byrne together for a mini Bridesmaids reunion, and part of the discussion pertained to the unfortunate mess that the title characters make in a bridal gown shop following a visit to a questionable restaurant. The former explained that the goal was for her and co-writer Annie Mumolo to craft a gross-out scene that came from their own specific vision – and part of that was apparently not actually seeing too many bodily fluids. Said Wiig,

That was a sequence that came later in the writing process that we sort of embraced in like, 'Ok, well, we'll write our version of this type of thing.' And we just kind of made it our own and it was like, 'I don't wanna see any vomit...' You can find a way to do your version of it. And they were right. It was just, it was funny.

Recalling the scene, there is some vomit featured: Wendi McLendon-Covey's Rita doesn’t make it to the toilet in time and sprays some on the closed seat, and Ellie Kemper's Becca later comes up behind her and vomits in her hair. That being said, it’s certainly not anything like the “Mr. Creosote” segment in Monty Python's The Meaning of Life, and most of the grossness is implied (such as Melissa McCarthy’s Megan unloading her bowls in a sink and Maya Rudolph’s Lillian pooping in the street while given privacy by her flowing bridal gown).

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

For what it’s worth, an original version of the scene was much grosser, as Ellie Kemper was going to be featured in a moment where she projectile vomited into the office of the woman who owns the bridal shop. That scene was cut, however.

For Kristen Wiig, what she really loved about the food poisoning scene was not the grossness of it all, but seeing the special comedic instincts of her fellow performers. Each of them have their own special reactions as they come to the realization that they are getting sick, and it’s all different kinds of funny. The actress added,

It was so fun to do that scene and to see the different, like Rose was saying, like different characters, to see everyone's version of like just for example, like not feeling well and like trying to hide it – just the way, even Ellie [Kemper] just politely (covers her mouth daintily). It was fun to watch the ladies just do their thing, watching these incredible women.

Bridesmaids has aged incredibly well thanks to the awesome gifts of its talented ensemble cast, and if you don’t want to take my word for it, you can rewatch the great 2011 comedy right now with a Starz subscription.

Kristen Wiig Was In A Rut On SNL. How Having A 'Breakdown' Led To One Of Her Most Iconic Sketches

Ryan LaBee — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:33:18 +0000

Kristen Wiig didn’t glide into her most iconic Saturday Night Live characters fully formed and brimming with confidence. In fact, according to her, some of her funniest lines that now feel inseparable from her legacy were born out of frustration and a very real fear that she’d simply run out of ideas. However, an apparent "breakdown" helped Wiig create one of her funniest sketches.

While appearing on the Las Culturistas podcast with hosts Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, Wiig opened up about a creatively rocky period during her early years on Saturday Night Live. Three seasons in, she says she hit a wall and already used the characters she’d leaned on to get cast, and the pressure to keep reinventing herself on a weekly deadline became overwhelming. She said:

Three seasons in, [I was] having a breakdown being like, ‘I've done every voice. I have nothing.’

That anxiety wasn’t unique to the Skeleton Twins lead. Yang admitted he felt something similar early in his own tenure, but hearing it from someone so closely associated with SNL success is striking. Wiig explained that part of surviving that period was learning to accept failure as part of the job. Some sketches won't go as planned, will bomb, and table reads will flop. Not everything works, and that realization, while uncomfortable, is necessary.

She also credited her castmates and writers for helping her push through the slump. Being nudged into roles she wasn’t sure she could play forced her to experiment, even when she felt creatively tapped out. She added:

And then that's that hump you get over with, also the help of other people being like, ‘Can you play blah blah blah?’ And you're like, ‘Well, we’ll see.’ And then you end up trying or doing it. It doesn't always work. And then you just like find new things.

The biggest shift, though, came when Wiig stopped relying so heavily on voices. Early in her career, that had been her entry point for characters, but during her third season, she began approaching comedy from a physical angle instead. She was considering posture, movement, and discomfort.

That pivot led directly to the now-legendary “Don’t Make Me Sing” catchphrase from the "1920s Party" sketch, which wasn’t born from a fully formed concept but from a moment of creative exhaustion. The Palme Royale actress recalled standing in a writer’s office, thinking she had nothing left to offer, so she just stood there, which led to a lightning strike of an idea. She continued:

And then, you find other ways to find characters. Like it became not just vocal. It became physical. I remember, I think I was in Paula Pell’s office, or James’, I can’t remember. But like the ‘don’t make me sing,’ that came from just standing like that. ‘Let’s just do something that stands like this,’ because I was like, ‘I’m out of things to do.’

That simple physicality turned into one of her most recognizable bits, a perfect encapsulation of SNL’s strange alchemy. It’s also a reminder that even the most celebrated runs are built on moments of doubt. And who knows, just changing your posture could make you stumble onto one of the most beloved SNL sketches, like "Cow Bell" or the “1920's Party” one Wiig is referencing, which you can watch below.

Looking back, the Bridesmaids star has called her years on SNL some of the best of her career, not because everything went smoothly, but because she learned to fail publicly and keep going anyway. And in her case, that breakdown didn’t end her momentum, but instead, quietly reshaped it.

You can rewatch all of Kristen Wiig's sketches, or the entire 50+ year run of Saturday Night Live, as it's now streaming for anyone with a Peacock subscription.

How To Watch The Despicable Me Movies In Chronological Order

Dirk Libbey — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:10:27 +0000

The following contains minor spoilers for all the Despicable Me and Minions films.

While Disney is still king of theatrical animation, and Pixar now has the highest-grossing animated film of all time, with Inside Out 2, the most successful animated movie franchise of all time, is actually from neither studio. It's Illumination's Despicable Me films. The four films in the main series, combined with the two Minions films, have made more than $5 billion at the global box office.

The six movies in the series jump around chronologically, so trying to follow the complete story can get confusing. If you’re a Despicable Me fan who wants to rewatch the films in their chronological order, or somebody new to the franchise who just wants to follow a sequential storyline from origins to the current era, here’s a look at how to watch all the movies in the Despicable Me franchise in order, from the beginning of the story to the end,, at least until the next one comes out.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Minions (2015)

Minions is the true start of the franchise, and you can’t go much further back, considering it's the prequel that explains the evolutionary beginnings of the bumbling yellow characters, and how they have existed since the dawn of time, complete with the desire to serve the most evil humans. Three of the Minions —Kevin, Stuart, and Bob — go in search of a new master to serve, leading them to Villain-Con, where they are first hired by Scarlett Overkill (an absolutely hilarious Sandra Bullock) and her husband Herb (John Hamm).

Minions is an interesting one, as it's actually the most successful release of the franchise to date when accounting for the global box office, while conversely being viewed as one of the worst in the franchise by critics. It all comes down to just how much of the Minions and their gibberish speech one can take in a single sitting.

Stream Minions On Netflix Buy/Rent Minions on Prime Video

(Image credit: Universal Studios/Illumination)

Minions: The Rise Of Gru (2022)

Minions: The Rise of Gru takes place in the mid-1970s, and while the movie may be frontloaded by the Minion branding, it is more of a direct Despicable Me prequel story that sees Gru (Steve Carrell) as a young boy who dreams of becoming a supervillain, with the Minions as his hired…minions. After auditioning to become a member of the antagonist squad the Viscious 6, Gru gets kidnapped by one of their former members, causing the Minions to come together to rescue their master.

The Minions: The Rise of Gru cast is the biggest draw for this entry for older viewers. The various villains comprise a who's who of Hollywood stars, making it easier for even the biggest Minions skeptics to enjoy.

Stream/Buy Minions: The Rise Of Gru On Prime Video

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Despicable Me (2010)

The first proper Despicable Me movie introduces Gru as an adult supervillain whose rival steals one of the pyramids in Egypt, causing Gru to up the ante by trying to steal the Moon. His plot to battle rival supervillain Vector causes Gru to team up and bond with three orphaned girls, leading to the discovery that even this big bad isn’t entirely evil.

The original Despicable Me is still widely seen by fans and critics as the best of the franchise, which makes sense, since this was the movie that had to be good enough to launch an entire franchise. It's certainly got the strongest heart.

Stream Despicable Me on Peacock Buy/Rent Despicable Me On Prime Video

(Image credit: Illumination)

Despicable Me 2 (2013)

Having retired as a supervillain to be a full-time father, Gru is drafted back into the world of crime by the Anti-Villain League and a woman named Lucy (Kristen Wiig), who wants the former supervillain to help them stop a new supervillain. He agrees, and his new crimefighting partner may turn out to be even more important for Gru on a personal level.

Despicable Me 2 proved to be a strong follow-up to the original, both in the eyes of fans and critics. It was clear from here that we had Illumination's first true franchise on our hands.

Stream Despicable Me 2 on Peacock Buy/Rent Despicable Me 2 On Prime Video

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Despicable Me 3 (2017)

In Despicable Me 3, Gru and Lucy are as happily married as former antagonists get, but after an Anti-Villain League mission goes south, both are fired. Gru and his family are then contacted by Gru’s previously unknown twin brother Dru, where we discover that villainy definitely runs in the family, as their father was once a supervillain himself.

Despicable Me 3 was the first film in the main franchise not directed by Chris Renaud, which may explain its somewhat lackluster response from critics. While it's the global box office champ of the flagship film series, it's generally not seen as the best of those releases.

Buy/Rent Despicable Me 3 On Prime Video

(Image credit: Universal)

Despicable Me 4 (2024)

In July 2024 we got the newest entry in the franchise, and the first Despicable Me movie in seven years. Despicable Me 4 refocused the story on the adult Gru, continuing his adventure with his job working for the Anti-Villan league and her personal life, with an increasingly large family.

Despicable Me 4 saw a former school rival of Gru's declare vengeance on the former villain after he became the latest bad guy captured by the Anti-Villain League. This led to Gru and his family, which now includes baby Gru Jr. going into hiding and taking on new identities. Despicable Me 4 opened strong at the box office, so this franchise is not losing any steam yet.

How To Watch The Despicable Me Movies In Release Order

If you want to watch all of the Despicable Me movies in chronological order, the above is the way to follow the story from beginning to end. If however, you want to watch all the films as you would have seen them in theaters, then the proper order would be.

Despicable Me (2010)
Despicable Me 2 (2013)
Minions (2015)
Despicable Me 3 (2017)
Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)
Despicable Me 4 (2024)

There are now six films in the massive franchise, but it's far from done. Minions 3 was recently announced for a 2027 release. Clearly, this franchise is still massively popular. With Universal Orlando Resort opening an entire Minions Land recently, and another planned for upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Texas, it seems unlikely the movies are planning to stop anytime soon, so long as supervillains aren't running the studio.

SNL's Chloe Fineman Didn't Even Try Comedy Until Her Late 20s, And She Revealed The Kristen Wiig Moment That Inspired Her

Emma Lambiaso — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 23:36:00 +0000

There are many unique things that come with Saturday Night Live, but I think one of the most special benefits about the long-running NBC sketch show is the way older casts get to mentor newer ones. Going into Season 51 as a veteran of six years, Chloe Fineman has become a staple cast member whom I'd assume younger comedians look up to. However, now she's opening up about her comedy origins and how one of the show's iconic alums inspired her.

While chatting with Gwyneth Paltrow, the SNL repertory cast member name-dropped several female comedians who inspired her to get into comedy. The Freakier Friday actress didn’t even try comedy until age 27, but in the video posted to her Instagram, Fineman revealed to the Goop founder the iconic Kristen Wiig performance that made her finally decide to pursue a comedic career:

Well I always like worshipped Margaret Cho, but I feel like after Bridesmaids came out, like I remember seeing that in the theater and being like, ‘I didn’t know we could do that.’ Yeah it was like amazing and then you know, like Amy Schumer and Kristen and Ali Wong stand up specials…like where women were dirty and special.

Honestly, yeah, I get that. Bridesmaids has some of the best one-liners, and it even earned Wiig an Oscar nod. The whole ensemble is top-notch with Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, and Melissa McCarthy, but it really is Kristen Wiig’s hilariously cringe performance that has you covering your eyes out of second-hand embarrassment and laughing out loud. She sells it so well, and I 100% see how it inspired Fineman to change her entire career trajectory.

Fineman went to NYU for classical theater, in hopes of becoming what she describes as an “indie drama girl.” What turned her career on its head was the female comedy scene of the 2010s.

The Megalopolis actress calls this era a "renaissance" of women in comedy, largely defined by movies such as Bridesmaids, Trainwreck, and Pitch Perfect. The independent, sex-positive 20 or 30-something woman tries to get her life together is a raucous comedy. Also see shows such as Girls and Broad City, and the relatable and raw honesty of sets from Margaret Cho and Ali Wong, as cited by Fineman.

This was the golden age of Kristen Wiig. The Palm Royale star wrapped her tenure at SNL in 2012, hopping into the film scene with additional hits alongside many other SNL friends, such as Zoolander 2, Mastermind, Date Night and Sausage Party.

So it’s no wonder Chloe Fineman finds an idol in Wiig, who also started on SNL in her 30s. Having been a fan of the show through both Wiig and Fineman’s peak years, I see where the latter draws her inspiration from (my mind goes to one of my favorite sketches with Wiig, “Super Showcase Spokesmodels”). With a similar comedic style, memorable for her wild characters and spot-on exaggerated impressions, that include JoJo Siwa and Timothée Chalamet, Fineman certainly seems to be following in the Skeleton Twins actress’ footsteps.

This past spring even saw the premiere of her first starring role in a comedy film, The Summer of '69. While it’s not a drama, Summer of '69 still made its premiere on the indie festival circuit before becoming available to stream with a Hulu subscription. So I think it’s safe to say Fineman has accomplished that dream of being an ‘indie girl’, just different from what she once imagined.

There’s a famous saying, ‘never meet your idols, ’ but Fineman says the sketches she’s gotten to do with Wiig have been some of her favorite moments on SNL. After hearing the Dickinson actress talk about Bridesmaids as a core inspiration for her career, I need to see these two generational SNL women in a 2010-style comedy ASAP. It’s time for another renaissance!

Kristen Wiig Is Joining Masters Of The Universe, And I’m Legitimately Surprised By The Wild Role She’ll Play

Adam Holmes — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 22:50:12 +0000

The Masters of the Universe reboot is one of the blockbusters slotted for the 2026 movies schedule, and it has quite the stacked cast. Besides Nicholas Galitzine bringing Prince Adam, a.k.a. He-Man, to life in what has been described as the “complete antithesis” of Barbie, we also have folks like Jared Leto as Skeletor, Camila Mendes as Teela, Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn and Idris Elba as Man-at-Arms, to name a few. Now we can add Kristen Wiig to this list too, though there was no way I could have predicted the role she’ll be playing.

As shared by THR, Wiig has come aboard Masters of the Universe to play Roboto, the mechanical warrior with the transparent body that allows one to see the gears and other components within. Roboto was built by Man-at-Arms and fights alongside him as one of the franchise’s Heroic Warriors. The character can also change out the hand on one of his/her arms and put in its place things like a claw, axe or laster gun.

(Image credit: Netflix)

Roboto is traditionally voiced by a male actor, so having a female actor voice the character adds another way this new Masters of the Universe movie can stand out from previous adaptations. Roboto has previously been voiced by Alan Oppenheimer in the 1980s He-Man and the Masters of the Universe animated TV show, Michael Donovan in the 2002 series of the same name, and Justin Long in Masters of the Universe: Revelation, which can be streamed with a Netflix subscription.

I Watch Barb And Star Every Summer And Still Don't Understand Why It's Not Widely Loved Like Anchorman

Corey Chichizola — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 19:29:42 +0000

The pandemic threw the entertainment industry into chaos, and a number of movie and TV projects were affected/pushed back. Josh Greenbaum's Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar was one such title, being pushed from 2020 to 2021 and arriving in theaters before folks were completely back at the movies. I recently did my annual re-watch of the zany comedy, and I still don't understand why it's not Anchorman-level of quotable and beloved by moviegoers.

Barb & Star's cast absolutely crushes the ridiculous nature of this film, which I personally think is one of the best comedies of all time. While I can quote the movie back and forth a la The Rocky Horror Picture Show, I'm constantly frustrated by people who have never seen this comedy in all of its culotte glory. Seriously go watch it now, it's streaming with a Hulu subscription.

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While comedy is a tried and true genre, few titles are just as ridiculous as Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar. That's why I put it on the same level as Anchorman. This movie is dumb, but in the smartest, funniest way. It's downright ridiculous from its opening scene to its credits, which is why CinemaBlend's Barb & Star review was so overwhelmingly positive. We weren't the only publication to think so, as the movie sits at 81% and is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

While not enough people have seen Barb & Star (get it together. Seriously put it on right now), everyone I've shown the project to has instantly become obsessed like me. Indeed, I have entire friend groups who constantly quote the movie. I just wish that more people would join the club and help make the the comedy a bonafide cult classic. And then hopefully we can get a sequel, where Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo's title characters can take a trip to another destination.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Another standout performance in Barb & Star comes from Jamie Dornan, who filmed the comedy after finishing his tenure in the Fifty Shades franchise. He perfectly fits into the movie's bonkers tone, and keeps up with comedy legends like Wiig and Mumolo. This is especially true in the movie's two musical numbers, one of which is a solo for the 43 year-old actor.

Jamie Dornan is open for a Barb & Star sequel, which is truly music to my ears. But he admitted that the movie's release in the midst of COVID meant that far few people saw the project than anticipated. But if we all keep spreading the word of this delightfully ridiculous title then perhaps the chatter will get loud enough that we'll get some sort of follow-up project. Hey, a guy can dream.

As I've mentioned, Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar is streaming now on Hulu. No sequel is on the 2025 movie release list or beyond, so I'll just keep re-watching and quoting back each line.

32 Random Celebrities Who Hosted WWE's Raw From 2009-2014

Philip Sledge — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 14:34:00 +0000

There have been all kinds of different eras throughout WWE’s history. The New Generation, the Attitude Era, the Ruthless Aggression phase, the PG-TV days, and others quickly come to mind. But one that is thankfully mostly forgotten these days is the WWE Raw Celebrity Host era between 2009 and 2014. Celebrity involvement in WWE has always been a thing going back to WrestleMania 1, but the company went overboard over a decade ago, and so many random names hosted or appeared on the flagship show.

Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne were inescapable in the 2000s, so it was only natural for the pair to host an episode of Monday Night Raw in November 2009. Their Raw’s Got Talent segment is without a doubt one of the worst things to ever happen on Raw, which is saying something.

JB Smoove On Working With Kristen Wiig On His First SNL Sketch: 'My Idea Is I Wanna Help JB Write Butt Pregnant'

Nick Venable — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:01:04 +0000

Saturday Night Live is back to basics for Season 50’s historic run on NBC, with plenty of new and returning guest hosts heading to the 2025 TV schedule (even if we don’t know all of them just yet). As its an important anniversary year, with several new specials offering fans behind-the-scenes details about “More Cowbell” and other classic moments, a variety of former writers have shared stories behind their first sketches that made it to air, and J.B. Smoove’s is understandably a doozy.

Beloved comedy actors like Sarah Silverman, Kevin Nealon and Jillian Bell — as well as creatives such as David Mandel, Michael Schur and Robert Smigel — shared their heavenly and hellish tales of pitching sketches to other SNL talents to Vanity Fair, with Curb Your Enthusiasm fan-favorite J.B. Smoove also lending his signature off-the-cuff perspective to the conversation.

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Before breaking out some of his more bonkers ideas that both made it and didn’t, Smoove reflected on why he wasn’t necessarily the best bet as an SNL writer so soon after joining the show, explaining:

I didn’t get a lot of things on air, partly because I was still learning how to be a writer on that speed. That speed is different than writing a movie or writing a TV show at your leisure. This is live TV. They needed that shit yesterday.

Even if J.B. Smoove wasn't automatically equipped for turning fast-paced ideating into written sketches, he eventually found his footing, writing for SNL from Seasons 29-31, followed by a guest-writing spot in Season 32. And despite such a short stint, he earned a reputation for his pitch delivery, which he also talked about when pinpointing his first idea that was produced in full for an episode. As he put it:

They used to call me the king of the pitch, because I would pitch as if I was doing stand-up. I think the first one that even made it was ‘Butt Pregnant.’ That was with Kristen Wiig, and it was her first sketch too. And I got a big laugh in the room. Then one of the writers, when they went around to their turn to pitch their idea, they said, ‘My idea is I wanna help JB write "Butt Pregnant."'

I love that one of the other writers was apparently so confident in "Butt Pregnant" that they bypassed whatever ideas they might have had in order to back Smoove's plan. That, or maybe the writer's own ideas were ten times worse, like "Boob Pregnant" or "Lower Calf Pregnant."

JB Smoove also talked about some of the more random and oddball ideas he had that inevitiably did not make it all the way beyond the pitch stage and into the show. Check out those comments below, which reference an icky Johnny Knoxville sketch that could have likely been an FXX animated comedy in alternate reality. In his words:

I pitched lots of things that never got on. A guy who used to work in the bank and now he owns a deli and he can’t stop licking his finger to put cheese on bread, like how you count money. I pitched 'Urine Detective' for Johnny Knoxville. I pitched Tom Brady a sketch about the first player in the NFL to slap another player on the butt after a good play. I really had to figure out how I was gonna navigate through this new challenge for myself.

At some point, I can only hope that NBC throws money at a new comedy show that brings some of the wildest unproduced SNL sketches to life outside of the live format. I need to see how that finger-licking deli guy finally realizes what he's doing is gross.

Saturday Night Live will likely return with new episodes both before and after NBC airs the new documentary SNL50: The Anniversary Special on Sunday, February 16, which can be streamed after the fact with a Peacock subscription.

32 Great Dramatic Performances By SNL Stars

Jason Wiese — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:34:00 +0000

The best Saturday Night Live stars made an impact on the classic sketch comedy series, not just because of their ability to be funny but, more importantly, their ability to act. These comedy icons would go on to prove their versatility by challenging themselves in more serious roles on both the big and small screen, going on to earn widespread praise for their craft. Here, we show our appreciation for these dramatic performances by very funny people, including some that earned these SNL stars Oscar nominations.

(Image credit: Roadside Attractions)

Kristen Wiig (The Skeleton Twins)

This one technically counts as a twofer because the eponymous siblings in the 2014 twin movie, The Skeleton Twins, are played by SNL veterans Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader. Wiig has never given a more absorbing performance than in this movie that gets honest about mental illness as Maggie Dean, who is forced to put her own mental health struggles at bay to care for her gay, suicidal brother, Milo.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Robert Downey Jr. (Oppenheimer)

Robert Downey Jr. is already better known for his dramatic roles (and playing Iron Man in the Marvel movies) than his brief SNL stint. However, many agree that his career best so far is his portrayal of Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan's Best Picture Oscar winner, 2023's Oppenheimer, which was his third Academy Award-nominated performance and the first to earn him the gold.

(Image credit: A24)

Laurie Metcalf (Lady Bird)

Laurie Metcalf is one of the better examples of an actor with a largely forgotten SNL stint, considering she only made a couple of appearances on the show during Season 6. She is far better known for playing Jackie on Roseanne and The Conners and for her heartbreaking, Oscar-nominated performance in Greta Gerwig's acclaimed 2017 dramedy, Lady Bird, as the mother of the angsty titular role.

(Image credit: Columbia Pictures)

Will Ferrell (Stranger Than Fiction)

Director Marc Forster’s 2006 film, Stranger Than Fiction, is still, essentially, a comedy but an undeniably dark one, as it follows an IRS agent named Harold Crick, who can hear the author of his life story foretelling his impending death. The role was one of the first to prove that a goofy actor like Will Ferrell had dramatic chops and his tender performance, one of the strongest of his career, would earn him a Golden Globe nomination.

(Image credit: Paramount)

Will Forte (Nebraska)

Perhaps the best thing outside of SNL to star Will Forte (in addition to the MacGruber movie and his prematurely canceled TV show The Last Man on Earth) is director Alexander Payne's Nebraska. The comedian shows a new rare side of himself in the Oscar-nominated 2013 as a David Grant, who agrees to travel cross-country with his estranged father, Woody (Bruce Dern), to claim a potentially non-existent prize of $1 million.

(Image credit: Dreamworks)

Eddie Murphy (Dreamgirls)

While Eddie Murphy scored a radio hit in 1985 with "Party All the Time," the moment that truly convinced the world that he was a musically talented SNL star was his performance in Dreamgirls. He received an Academy Award nomination for playing troubled R&B singer, James “Thunder” Early in the acclaimed 2006 musical.

(Image credit: FX)

Abby Elliott (The Bear)

Creator Christopher Storer's acclaimed FX original, The Bear, is often billed as a comedy, especially around awards season. However, real fans of the culinary series know that it is truly one of the most emotionally grasping shows of its time and Abby Elliott (daughter of fellow SNL vet Chris Elliott) has contributed to some of its strongest moments as Natalie "Sugar" Berzatto.

(Image credit: A24)

Adam Sandler (Uncut Gems)

While he is still beloved for comedies like Happy Gilmore and Billy Madison, both critics and audiences agree that one of Adam Sandler's best movies is the intense 2019 thriller Uncut Gems. Many believed he deserved an Oscar nomination for his performance in the acclaimed A24 movie from Josh and Benny Safdie as self-destructive Manhattan jeweler Howard Rattner.

(Image credit: Broad Green Pictures)

Sarah Silverman (I Smile Back)

It was not until years after her one-season stint on SNL that Sarah Silverman became one of the biggest names in comedy with her sharp stand-up and roles in popular funny movies. However, she had never received wider and stronger critical acclaim before playing vastly against type in the 2015 drama I Smile Back as a troubled woman struggling to hide her depression and self-destructive tendencies from her husband and young children.

(Image credit: Focus Features)

Bill Murray (Lost In Translation)

Many would call Bill Murray (who was part of SNL's Not Ready for Primetime Players) losing Best Actor for one of the best movies of the 2000s, Lost in Translation, at the 2004 Academy Awards one of the biggest Oscar blunders in history. His performance in writer and director Sofia Coppola’s sophomore effort as a lonely veteran actor striking up an unlikely bond with a young woman (played by Scarlett Johansson) in Tokyo is a masterclass in raw honesty and charm.

(Image credit: FX)

Chris Rock (Fargo)

No one was more surprised to see Noah Hawley offer Chris Rock one of the lead roles in the fourth season of his hit anthology TV show, Fargo, than the former SNL star himself. Rock – who went on to play a cop in a Saw movie called Spiral and starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic, Rustin – really turned heads with his commanding performance as Loy Cannon, who leads his 1950s-ear, Kansas City crime family with an iron fist.

(Image credit: HBO)

Bill Hader (Barry)

When he created Barry with Alec Berg, Bill Hader knew people would think the idea of him playing a contract killer who falls in love with acting is pretty funny. That must have motivated the former SNL favorite to prove that he could bring himself to some disturbingly bleak places with his two-time Emmy-winning performance in the title role of the hit HBO series.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Kate McKinnon (Bombshell)

We genuinely believe that one of the most essential reasons why Bombshell is one of Kate McKinnon's best movies is the dynamic SNL star's performance. Her role as Fox News employee Jess Carr – a composite character based on real people involved with the real-life events that inspired the 2019 docudrama – could be written off as comic relief but she does show some real gravitas in its more somber moments.

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Dan Aykroyd (Driving Miss Daisy)

Some of Dan Aykroyd's most notable cinematic efforts are actually movies based on SNL characters, namely The Blues Brothers and Coneheads. However, he would earn praise and an Academy Award nomination for his moving turn as Boolie Werthan in 1989’s beloved period drama, Driving Miss Daisy.

(Image credit: Roadside Attractions)

Andy Samberg (Lee)

When appearing on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Andy Samberg acknowledged that a movie like Lee – the 2024 biopic about World War II photographer Lee Miller, played by Kate Winslet – is unlike anything the Lonely Island member has done before. However, not only is the SNL vet a dead ringer for Miller's colleague, David Scherman, but he excels in his emotionally heavy portrayal of the man.

(Image credit: Focus Features)

Maya Rudolph (Away We Go)

Director Sam Mendes' Away We Go is a sweet, tender-hearted dramedy about a couple (played by John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph) traveling the country in search of a worthy home for their soon-to-be-born child. Carrying most of the emotional weight in the film is Rudolph, resulting in one of her most wonderfully down-to-earth performances from one of SNL's goofiest female performers.

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Molly Shannon (A Good Person)

Writer and director Zach Braff's A Good Person – following a young woman (played by Florence Pugh) and her post-accident road to recovery with help from her would-be father-in-law (played by Morgan Freeman) – is led to by heavy-hitting Oscar darlings. Yet, some say the heart and soul of the 2023 dramedy is Molly Shannon's performance as the mother of Pugh's character, for which she gives her most acclaimed, heartfelt dramatic performance yet.

(Image credit: Bleecker Street)

Jay Pharoah (Unsane)

Jay Pharoah only departed from SNL a couple of years breaking into dramatic acting with director Steven Soderbergh's Unsane. The comedian and talented impressionist is electrifying in the mind-bending psychological thriller as a mental hospital patient who befriends Sawyer (Claire Foy), who claims she has been admitted against her will.

(Image credit: A24)

Jenny Slate (Obvious Child)

Arguably the most memorable moment from Jenny Slate's one-season SNL stint is when she accidentally dropped the F-bomb during her first show (which she confirmed had nothing to do with her exit, by the way). Years after her time at Studio 8H, the comedian amazed critics with her beautiful and heartbreaking performance in the 2014 romantic dramedy Obvious Child, in which she plays a stand-up comic dealing with an unplanned pregnancy.

(Image credit: Twentieth Century Fox)

Casey Wilson (Gone Girl)

Some might say that a sign of a great actor is the ability to convey all that an audience needs to know just in one's silent expressions. For proof, see Casey Wilson's performance as Amy Dunne's "friend" Noelle Hawthorne in David Fincher's Gone Girl, in which you rarely, if ever, hear her speak but are thoroughly captivated by her body language.

(Image credit: USA Network)

Anthony Michael Hall (The Dead Zone)

In 1984, the same year that Anthony Michael Hall became a teen idol with roles in hilarious, high school movies The Breakfast Club and Weird Science, he became the youngest SNL cast member, coming on at just 17 years old. Years later, he fully reinvented himself as a serious actor as the star of USA's series adaptation of Stephen King's The Dead Zone, in which he plays a man who wakes from a coma with the ability to see the future.

(Image credit: MGM)

Christopher Guest (The Long Riders)

Christopher Guest joined the SNL cast in 1984, around the same time his career as the most trusted mockumentarian began as one of the writers and stars of This is Spinal Tap. He had shown Hollywood his more serious side years earlier by starring in The Long Riders – a fact-based Western noted for casting real-life siblings as real-life outlaw siblings, such as Guest and his brother, Nicholas, as Charley and Robert Ford.

(Image credit: Searchlight Pictures)

Jane Curtin (Can You Ever Forgive Me?)

After SNL, Jane Curtin went on to play many great comedic roles – such as her two-time Emmy-winning role on Kate & Allie and an acclaimed stint on 3rd Rock from the Sun – but did not have quite many opportunities to show her more serious side. That would change in 2018 when the one-time "Weekend Update" anchor starred in the biopic Can You Ever Forgive Me? as Marjorie, who works as the agent for author Lee Israel (Melissa McCarthy).

(Image credit: AMC)

Michael McKean (Better Call Saul)

Interestingly, Michael McKean was already an established comedy actor and had even hosted SNL before he joined as a cast member in the early 1990s. However, his reputation as a dramatic actor was never fully realized before his Emmy-nominated turn on Vince Gilligan's Breaking Bad prequel series Better Call Saul as Chuck, the delusional older brother of Jimmy McGill (former SNL writer Bob Odenkirk).

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Joan Cusack (Arlington Road)

Joan Cusack became the first SNL star to earn two Academy Award nominations but both were for comedic roles, namely from 1988's Working Girl and In & Out from 1997. One might argue she deserved similar recognition for her work in 1999's Arlington Road as Cheryl Lang, who, along with her husband (played by Tim Robbins), is suspected of domestic terrorism by their neighbor, a professor (played by Jeff Bridges).

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

Billy Crystal (Before)

With the exception of, perhaps, the tearjerker ending of When Harry Met Sally..., it is hard to imagine Billy Crystal in a role that doesn't require him to be his signature goofy self. Thus, the comedic genius shocked audiences when he served as the star and showrunner of Apple TV+'s dark thriller Before, in which he plays a widowed child psychiatrist whose newest patient exhibits signs of psychopathy.

(Image credit: Miramax Films)

Janeane Garofalo (Cop Land)

Janeane Garofalo's time at SNL is largely forgotten but, luckily, did not affect her reputation as one of the smartest and most dynamic comedic actors in the 1990s. She further proved her versatility in 1997 as Deputy Sheriff Cindy Betts in James Mangold's acclaimed crime thriller, Cop Land.

(Image credit: NBC)

Chevy Chase (Law & Order)

Chevy Chase's bread and butter on and off SNL was playing smarmy jerks. However, he really upped the ante in 2006 for his guest star appearance on Law & Order as an anti-Semitic murder suspect.

(Image credit: Rob Youngson / 20th Century Studios)

Tina Fey (A Haunting In Venice)

In addition to being the Agatha Christie surrogate in Kenneth Branagh's third Agatha Christie adaptation, you could call Tina Fey's clever writer Ariadne Oliver the comic relief of A Haunting in Venice. However, the former SNL star and one-time head writer plays the role in the 2023 mystery thriller with an earnestness that is perfectly suitable for its story and tone.

(Image credit: TriStar Pictures)

Jim Belushi (The Principal)

Jim Belushi's stint at SNL was unavoidably a constant source of comparison to his older brother, John Belushi. Luckily, he went on to have a relatively successful run with more dramatic roles, such as a man who takes a job at an anarchic high school in 1987's The Principal.

(Image credit: Warner Bros.)

Rob Riggle (12 Strong)

Rob Riggle's brief time at SNL led to a stint on The Daily Show and scene-stealing turns in comedies like Stepbrothers and 21 Jump Street but his best role might be from 2018's 12 Strong. As he told Stephen Colbert on Late Show, he was uniquely qualified to star in the fact-based military drama, not only because he is a former U.S. Marine but because the person he is portraying, Lt. Colonel Bowers, is his actual former boss.

(Image credit: Columbia Pictures)

Randy Quaid (The Last Detail)

One of the few people to become an Academy Award nominee before becoming an SNL cast member is Randy Quaid. He earned the honor from his performance in 1973's The Last Detail as a dishonorable discharged Naval officer who is shown one last good time by his superiors (played by Jack Nicholson and Otis Young) before facing jail time.

Chloe Fineman Shares The Full Story Behind Her Favorite Sketch So Far, And There’s A Dog, Peanut Butter, And Kristen Wiig Involved

Emma Lambiaso — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 22:40:00 +0000

Tis the season for fondly remembering past holiday memories as we prep for new ones this year. For Saturday Night Live star Chloe Fineman, one of her favorite SNL memories happened during a Christmas episode. Surprisingly, it involves a dog and peanut butter and Kristen Wiig? Admittedly, after hearing this story, I think this will be a hard moment for any other SNL installments to top amid the 2024 TV schedule.

Chloe Fineman’s favorite sketch, titled “Christmas Morning”, was filmed in 2020 during the COVID pandemic, at which point Kristen Wiig returned to host the annual Christmas episode. As it so happens, the dog handler for the sketch in question unfortunately came down with Covid. For the Father of the Bride actress, it was the opportunity of a lifetime to get her own dog in a sketch, and she told People the story of how she made it happen:

So we snuck my dog in and he's in that video and I love it because he's like so cute. He did dog acting, which was basically [when] you put peanut butter all over the set and he just kind of licked stuff. It was really a star turn for my dog and he is held by Kristen Wiig. She's like a hero of mine. So that's my favorite.

That has to be the best “take your pet to work day” experience I’ve ever heard. This sketch always gets a laugh out of my family during our annual watch of the SNL Christmas special, and I love it even more now that I know the silly story behind it. If comedic legend and A+ line deliverer Kristen Wiig held my dog, I’d never wash her again. I have to say though, Chloe Fineman's Shibu Inu, Peach -- who was a puppy at the time --nailed his role, giving his mom a run for her money. Check out the sketch below:

The Megalopolis actress joined the sketch comedy ensemble as a featured player amid its 45th season. Fast forward to 2024, and she's ringing in the 50th anniversary season as one of the main cast members, appearing in all of this season’s best sketches, including “Bridesmaids Speech” with the viral character Domingo.

It doesn’t surprise me one bit that Chloe Fineman sees 5-Timer Club member Kristen Wiig as a role model. Based on her own trajectory over the past five years, Fineman's on pace to be one of the SNL greats just like Wiig, although her tenure hasn't been without trial and error. Still, she has since become a sketch staple, while also racking up impressions like her hero, reliably impersonations of Jojo Siwa and Kaitlan Collins this season. I wouldn’t be surprised if Fineman starts earning more gigs outside of the late night comedy show, eventually moving onto bigger opportunities, as so many former cast members have done.

32 SNL Stars Who Eventually Made An Epic Return To The Late Night Show After Leaving

Jason Wiese — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 22:33:00 +0000

After Chevy Chase left in 1976, stepping in to join the Not Ready for Primetime Players was Bill Murray, who hilariously acknowledged his struggle to make an impression on SNL early on in a famous sketch. Of course, the Oscar nominee would quickly achieve wild notoriety in the 1980s, which made his subsequent five hosting gigs and additional cameos much-celebrated occasions.

The Best '10s Movies For These 32 Actors

Riley Utley — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:33:26 +0000

The 2010s were a transformative decade for movies as directors like Damien Chazelle, Greta Gerwig and Jordan Peele hit the mainstream, and many actors exploded into stardom or gave career-defining performances in movies like theirs. Now, it’s time to celebrate some of the best films of this decade and the performers who starred in them.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Emma Stone – La La Land

This ode to Old Hollywood and modern romance from Damien Chazelle is widely beloved in part because of Emma Stone's performance. If you go back to reviews for La La Land, you’ll see Stone and Ryan Gosling praised for their work as they played Mia and Sebastian, two aspiring artists who fall in love with each other. Notably, Emma Stone won her first Oscar for the film because of the wonderful performance she gave as the up-and-coming actress.

(Image credit: Universal)

Kristen Wiig – Bridesmaids

When it comes to Bridesmaids and all its hilarious lines and gags, we all need to say a collective thank you to Kristen Wiig. Not only did the Saturday Night Live alum lead the stellar ensemble cast of this 2011 flick, but she also wrote the movie with Annie Mumolo, and they got an Oscar nomination for it.

(Image credit: A24)

Mahershala Ali – Moonlight

Moonlight, which famously won Best Picture in 2017, is a coming-of-age film that follows Chiron through three stages of his life, focusing on him exploring his sexuality and identity. In it, Mahershala Ali plays Juan, a man who has a pivotal role in Chiron’s early life. Famously, Ali won his first Oscar for his moving performance in this film.

(Image credit: Universal)

Daniel Kaluuya – Get Out

Get Out is considered one of the greatest horror movies of all time, and it marked the directorial debut of Jordan Peele. While this film about the deeply dark turn a trip takes after a white woman brings her Black boyfriend home to meet her family is career-defining for its director – as he’s gone on to become quite the name in the genre – it also marked a major breakout for Daniel Kaluuya who played the film’s lead, Chris.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

Amy Adams – Arrival

Arrival is unquestionably one of Amy Adams’ best movies, and to this day, folks are still livid that she wasn’t nominated for an Oscar for it. She plays Louise, a linguist assigned to decipher and translate an alien language. However, as Arrival’s ending makes abundantly clear, there’s way more to it than that, and one of the major reasons this movie works is because of Adams’ masterful, emotional and nuanced performance.

(Image credit: Sony Pictures)

J.K. Simmons – Whiplash

In Whiplash, one of J.K. Simmons’ best films, he plays a brilliant and brutal jazz conductor and instructor named Terence Fletcher. During the film, Miles Teller plays a young drummer named Andrew who is determined to become great, and his intense relationship with Terence and the notion of being the best is what makes Damien Chazelle’s film magnificent. On top of its overall acclaim, Simmons also won an Oscar for his performance.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Hugh Jackman – Logan

Logan was Hugh Jackman’s last ride as the Wolverine, and it was basically perfect. While he’s returned to the role since in Deadpool and Wolverine, Logan still serves as a wonderful conclusion to the iconic X-Man’s story. It was also a game-changing Marvel film, as it brought a level of grit and intrigue that we hadn’t really seen in a movie from this universe before.

(Image credit: Warner Bros.)

Ben Affleck – Argo

Much like Good Will Hunting, Argo marked a major milestone in Ben Affleck’s career. It was one of the films that solidified him as a top-tier director, and on top of that, he also starred in the film about a CIA agent disguised as a producer who goes into Tehran on a mission to save a group of Americans. Oh, also, the film went on to win Best Picture at the Oscars too.

(Image credit: Sony Pictures Releasing)

The Social Network cast is stacked, however, it wouldn’t be what it is without Jesse Eisenberg’s performance as Mark Zuckerberg at its center. His nuanced performance which is somehow both collected and chaotic compliments Aaron Sorkin’s fast-talking script perfectly, and he expertly helped build up tension in the film that director David Fincher is known for. All around, that made for a perfect, heart-pounding drama about the rise of Facebook.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

Leonardo DiCaprio – The Wolf Of Wall Street

While Leonardo DiCaprio has a long list of career-defining performances, and he and Martin Scorsese have made many great movies together, you can’t deny that his portrayal of Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street tops that list.

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Brie Larson – Room

The film Room, which is about a mother and her son escaping captivity, is masterfully led by Brie Larson, who plays Ma. Both she and Jacob Tremblay, who played her son Jack, were praised for their performances, and in 2016, the actress won an Oscar for her work.

(Image credit: T-Street/ Lionsgate)

Daniel Craig – Knives Out

Now, I know that Daniel Craig’s tenure as James Bond was still happening in the 2010s. However, an equally important and brilliant role he took on was as detective Benoit Blanc in Rian Johnson’s first whodunnit Knives Out. Now, after leading the cast of Knives Out, Craig has gone on to reprise his role as the Southern detective on multiple occasions, because he loves it and so do we.

(Image credit: Film Disctrict)

Ryan Gosling – Drive

If you look over Ryan Gosling’s best movies, on one side you’ll find his brilliant comedic films – like Barbie and The Nice Guys – and on the other side, you’ll find his stoic and dramatic performance, like the one he gives in Drive. Put simply, Drive wouldn’t work without the actor’s lead performance, because the entire film hinges on him and his abilities.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Ryan Reynolds – Deadpool

After years of working to get it made and some well-timed leaked footage, finally, in 2016, Deadpool came out and we got to see Ryan Reynolds in his element as the Merc with a Mouth.

(Image credit: MGM)

Casey Affleck – Manchester By The Sea

In a film about a man returning home to reckon with his past and grief after losing his brother, Casey Affleck gives an emotional and commanding performance. Not only did he win an Oscar for his work in this drama, but it’s also one of the big defining roles of his career.

(Image credit: Marvel)

Chris Evans – Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Chris Evans began and ended his tenure as Steve Rogers in the 2010s. While all his outings as the star-spangled man with a plan were excellent, nothing tops his performance as Cap in the political thriller that is the Russo brothers’ Captain America: The Winter Soldier, which is easily one of the best Marvel movies ever made.

(Image credit: Searchlight)

Ralph Fiennes – The Grand Budapest Hotel

Under Wes Anderson’s precise direction, Ralph Fiennes occupied the pastel world of the Grand Budapest Hotel with grace and style. His fast-talking M. Gustave went on quite the adventure in this film, and he won over the hearts of audiences with his quick wit, smooth charm and impeccable work ethic.

(Image credit: Fox Searchlight)

Natalie Portman – Black Swan

Throwing it back to the beginning of the decade, Darren Aronofsky’s 2010 psychological thriller Black Swan showed us Natalie Portman’s talents in a new light. While she had been on the scene and in big movies for years, this film marked a major milestone in her career as her performance as a tortured ballerina got her an Academy Award.

(Image credit: Focus Features)

Matthew McConaughey – Dallas Buys Club

Obviously, for a couple of decades before this, Matthew McConaughey was known and beloved for fun movies like Dazed and Confused and How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days. However, in 2013, Dallas Buyers Club marked a notable shift in his career. Not only did he win an Oscar for this dramatic turn as a man who finds out he has AIDS, but he also went on to star in acclaimed projects like Interstellar and True Detective one year later, cementing himself as a magnificent dramatic actor with serious range.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Jennifer Lawrence – Silver Linings Playbook

Yes, Jennifer Lawrence leading The Hunger Games cast is one of the biggest triumphs of her career. However, amid all of that, she starred in the beloved dramedy Silver Linings Playbook with Bradley Cooper, and that’s the film for which she won her Oscar. This magnificent film about two people learning to live and thrive through grief and mental illness, is a thoughtful and funny film that Lawrence steals with her amazing performance.

(Image credit: Sony Pictures)

Brad Pitt – Moneyball

Moneyball is the story about the general manager of the Oakland A’s using his business savvy and what little money his team had to assemble a rag-tag team of MLB players. Brad Pitt plays said manager, Billy Beane, and I mean it when I say the movie really wouldn’t work without him. He’s at the center of it, and he carries it to victory just like his character did with the A’s.

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Chadwick Boseman – Black Panther

We sadly lost Chadwick Boseman way too early, however, his legacy will live on forever. This is in part because of his performance as the King of Wakanda, T’Challa. Black Panther was a historic moment in modern movie history, and his incredible take on the titular hero is a big reason why.

(Image credit: Neon)

Margot Robbie – I, Tonya

Before I, Tonya, Margot Robbie was beloved for her supporting and ensemble roles in films like The Wolf of Wall Street and Suicide Squad. However, one of the movies that helped solidify her as both a leading lady and super producer was I, Tonya. She played Tonya Harding and produced the film under the banner of her company LuckyChap – which went on to make films like Barbie and Promising Young Woman.

(Image credit: A24)

Florence Pugh – Midsommar

Florence Pugh exploded onto the scene with the haunting Ari Aster film Midsommar. The movie is now considered one of the best horror movies of all time, and a big reason why is Pugh’s performance.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Saoirse Ronan – Lady Bird

Talk about a dynamic duo. Greta Gerwig and Saoirse Ronan are a match made in heaven, and that was solidified into fact when the actress played the titular Lady Bird in the director’s breakout film. Not only did fans fall in love with Ronan’s performance as the defiant teenage gal, but she also received wide acclaim and an Oscar nomination for it. Plus, it was the beginning of a glorious partnership between her and Greta Gerwig as they then went on to make Little Women together.

(Image credit: Sony)

Timothée Chalamet – Call Me By Your Name

These days, when people think of Timothée Chalamet, they likely think of him as Paul Atreides, the leader of the Dune cast. However, before that (and in a different decade) the film that sprung him into the mainstream was Luca Guadagnino’s Call Me By Your Name. The deeply romantic and tender coming-of-age drama was led beautifully by Chalamet, and since then he’s taken on more roles that have helped cement him as one of the top-leading men of his generation.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Anna Kendrick – Pitch Perfect

If you were a kid in 2012 (like I was), odds are you learned the “Cups” song. The movie about college acapella was a phenomenon in the early 2010s, and it served as a big breakout leading role for Anna Kendrick. Not only was she funny as Becca, but everyone also became aware that she had the singing voice of an angel.

(Image credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures)

Lupita Nyong’o – 12 Years A Slave

Lupita Nyong’o’s first feature film was 12 Years A Slave. Her performance in the movie by Steve McQueen won her an Oscar in 2012 and solidified her as a top-tier dramatic performer. Since then, she’s gone on to star in massive blockbusters like Black Panther and A Quiet Place: Day One.

(Image credit: Warner Bros)

Joaquin Phoenix – Joker

There have been many amazing takes on the Joker, and Joaquin Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck was a totally new one. In Joker, we see the villain’s origin story, and it’s a film that’s unlike any other DC project. The haunting performance ultimately won the actor an Oscar, and he reprised the part again in Joker: Folie à Deux.

(Image credit: Village Roadshow Pictures)

Charlize Theron – Mad Max: Fury Road

The movie is named after Mad Max, and he’s great, don’t get me wrong, but Furiosa steals the show. Charlize Theron’s performance as the driver in Mad Max: Fury Road is fierce and jaw-dropping, and she’s one of many reasons why George Miller’s movie is considered one of the best action films.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Michael Cera – Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

You can’t have Scott Pilgrim vs. The World without a perfect Scott Pilgrim and that’s who Michael Cera is. He perfectly played the awkward yet heroic protagonist in Edgar Wright’s beloved film, and to this day, it's considered some of his best work.

(Image credit: 20th Century )

Matt Damon – The Martian

This Ridley Scott movie is literally about one man who is stuck on Mars. Yes, there are other people in the film trying to save him. However, overall, The Martian is Matt Damon’s movie. He plays the stranded astronaut and scientist, and the heart, charisma, intelligence and even humor he brings to the space drama is unforgettable.

All around, the 2010s were full of films that are on their way to becoming all-time classics, and it’s in part thanks to the brilliant actors who starred in them.

‘I’d Actually Back Away, Ma’am’: Kelly Clarkson Details Her Most Awkward Fan Interaction, And A Public Restroom Is Involved

Heidi Venable — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 20:18:34 +0000

It’s pretty common knowledge that it can be hard for celebrities to maintain their privacy. Starring in the best rom-coms or people’s favorite sitcoms, for instance, gives fans the impression that they know the actors, even if they’re only aware of the character or persona being portrayed. A recent viral video of Sabrina Carpenter proved that she can’t even walk down the street without being inundated with requests for selfies and autographs. Every actor, singer or performer of any kind has horror stories about fan interactions, and Kelly Clarkson’s involves a pretty invasive public restroom experience.

As a new season of the singer's talk show is set to premiere on the 2024 TV schedule, a clip was released from the August 27 episode that features Carol Burnett and Kristen Wiig. During the Q&A segment of The Kelly Clarkson Show, an audience member inquired about the celebs' craziest fan encounters, and Kelly Clarkson came through with a doozy. The host said:

I’ve had someone literally come in, like while I’m in the stall, and just slide paper and pen under [the door]. Look, I’m gonna be real, I wasn’t just peeing. Like I’m just gonna break it down, I was like, ‘There’s a situation going down in here. I’d actually back away, ma’am.’ Like, I don’t know. I don’t know, this is a bold move.

The “Since U Been Gone” singer was laughing — in hindsight, not at the time — because man, that is not just a bold move, it’s pretty rude. Talk about backing someone into a corner! I really have to wonder how much that woman told people when she relayed the story of getting Kelly Clarkson’s autograph.

After Kristen Wiig joked that Kelly Clarkson was at least in a position where she had a few free minutes to go ahead and put her signature down, the American Idol champion confirmed that she did, in fact, give the autograph. That just sounds like the most awkward situation ever.

Carol Burnett’s strangest fan interaction was pretty similar, as she recalled a little girl sticking her head underneath the stall to ask, “Are you Carol Burnett?” At least that was a child, Kelly Clarkson reasoned, but still. Yikes! Through the laughter, the Emmy-winning talk show host chastised fans, exclaiming:

People! That’s not acceptable, that’s unacceptable. At least wait till we’re finished.

Kelly Clarkson and Carol Burnett are not the only celebrities to have found themselves in less-than-desirable restroom situations over the years. Doctor Who’s David Tennant has spoken about being asked for his autograph while in the shower at the gym. That’s just unreasonable, because in addition to being a huge invasion of privacy, the autograph would get all wet.

The Boys actor Giancarlo Esposito told of an amusing but no-less-awkward situation, where he accidentally intimidated a fan in line for the airplane bathroom. Apparently they were just that scared of his Breaking Bad character Gus Fring (and I have to agree, I’d ALWAYS let Gus Fring cut in line for the bathroom).

I am sorry that Kelly Clarkson had to go through something as hilariously awkward as having paper and pen wordlessly slid under her bathroom stall while she was going No. 2, but I am not sorry about the laughs that her retelling gave me.

Seth Rogen And The Sausage Party Cast On What It Was Like Recording Those Food Orgy Scenes

Jeff McCobb — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 03:35:23 +0000

Let’s not forget that in 2016, Seth Rogen’s adult animated movie Sausage Party destroyed at the box office. One of the most memorable moments from the film featured a massive food orgy, showing that these talking hot dogs are a far cry from the sentient grub I grew up on with Veggie Tales. Naturally the new Prime Video show Sausage Party: Foodtopia had to remind audiences what they were getting into by featuring an even more raunchy erotic smörgåsbord in Episode 1, and the A-list cast of comedians admitted to me that the voice work was uncomfortably realistic.

I spoke with Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, and franchise newcomer Sam Richardson about the new show, and when I brought up the subject of food sex they seemed more than game. That was when Sam Richardson volunteered this information:

I'll tell you what. My first day recording, like, doing any sex noises, I was like, *grunts* I'm like, 'You guys are hearing my real sex noises.' I’m like, 'Wow, that's a real one. Sorry Guys.' So I think mine are universal.

Seth Rogen went on to agree with Richardson, saying, “I’m giving them the real ones.” As you can imagine, the interview suddenly felt a lot more intimate. Being the performer she is, however, Kristen Wiig pointed out the major difference between her real-life sensuality and that of her character, a hot dog bun named Brenda:

I feel like Brenda's are a little more sing-song-y than mine. Operatic, yeah.

They all had a good laugh recanting what it was like performing food porn in the recording booth, which you can see for yourself by checking out the clip at the top of this article. In fact, the whole interview was full of laughs, which should be no surprise coming from these three.

If you like Seth Rogen, Sausage Party: Foodtopia is offering up exactly what you’re looking for. Despite who was working behind the scenes, in 2016, folks felt it necessary to emphasize that Sausage Party was not suitable for children. Of course, the new show is no different, and in fact I would venture to say that it’s raunchier. Seth Rogen has a lot of projects in the works (as per) such as Aziz Ansar’s new movie Good Fortune and his new Apple TV+ show The Studio, which he is also co-producing. The point is, just the fact that he took the time to create and star in this 8-part television program makes it worth watching.

You can see Sausage Party: Foodtopia with a Prime Video subscription right now! As for everything else coming our way in the world of film and television, we’ll keep you updated right here at CinemaBlend.

32 SNL Stars And Other Comic Legends Who Got Their Start In The Groundlings

Jon Hamm Recounting Paul Feig ‘Yelling Sex Instructions’ On The Set Of Bridesmaids Is All Kinds Of Hilarious

Adreon Patterson — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 19:05:49 +0000

Jon Hamm and Kristen Wiig’s on-screen relationship in the hit movie Bridesmaids left much to be desired within the narrative. However, for audiences, it generated some major laughs. Annie and Ted’s sex scene, in particular, added to the romp’s hilarious hijinks despite its awkwardness. Now, decade after the blockbuster comedy, Hamm has recounted director Paul Feig yelling sex instructions on the set, and this is all kinds of hilarious

The former co-stars reunited for Variety’s Actors on Actors during which they discussed their latest projects, and the 2011 film eventually came up. Having the man who played Don Draper star in the raunchy gross-out comedy was a major coup at the time. Kristen Wiig and John Hamm spoke on first meeting at SNL (with its famous naked quick changes). When Hamm hosted one time, she propositioned him to be in the film despite not having written his part yet.

From there, the pair talked about their on-screen kiss, which happened on the last day of shooting. The Mad Men star admitted feeling like a fish out of water since “everybody knew each other.” He recalled “everyone just wanted to leave” as he and Wiig goofed around during their sex scene. Wiig disagreed with the Mad Men star before they delved into how the awkward sex scene played out:

HAMM: I definitely felt the last-day energy. And we could not keep it together remotely. It was the dumbest.

WIIG: It was so fun because it was so loose: ‘What if we do this? What if we try this?’

HAMM: And Paul Feig yelling sex instructions. ‘Put her leg over your shoulder!’ ‘OK!’ We’re in naked bodysuits. Dumb and fun. And you and Annie [Mumolo] made one of the best comedies of all time. And you got nominated for an Oscar.

WIIG: And you’re in it. And you made it great. So thanks.

Actors always talk about how awkward filming intimate scenes can be, but this pair’s account sounds a bit more unconventional compared to some of those other stories. Imagine the director yelling out sex positions to the talent. A part of you definitely wants to laugh after hearing this, and another part simply wants to cringe.

As wild as it might sound, the scene was important for the story. The casual relationship between Annie and Ted catalyzed the former’s destructive behavior throughout Bridesmaids. The sex scene is a very memorable moment from one of the best women-led buddy comedies. Feig’s direction -- like the actors' performances -- was invaluable for the film, which is a major reason why it still works after a decade.

Since the comedic classic’s release, the cast has shared multiple behind-the-scenes stories from the set. The director himself even mentioned Bridesmaids’ famous bathroom scene could’ve been wilder. All the hard work, and those various antics, factored into the female-led R-rated comedy becoming a pop culture phenomenon, that grossed over $302 million worldwide and scored several award nominations, including two Academy Awards. So I salute Jon Hamm and Kristen Wiig for being total champs and working through the scene for the eventual amusement of viewers.

As moviegoers wait for another romp from Kirsten Wiig and Jon Hamm, the pair have upcoming movie releases on the docket. After Mean Girls and Unfrosted, Hamm will be heard in Transformers One, which arrives in theaters on September 20. Wiig also lends her vocals to Despicable Me 4, which will open in cinemas on July 3.

Of course, if you're feeling nostalgic and want to relive the stars' hilarious sex scene, you can definitely stream that as well. Watch Bridesmaids by buying or renting it on Amazon Prime Video, and learn the film’s best one-liners in the process. Also, know that there are plenty of other R-rated comedies you can check out as well.

Jon Hamm And Kristen Wiig Get Real About SNL's Famous Naked Quick Changes: 'All Of The Parts. It's Fine'

Heidi Venable — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 17:47:06 +0000

When it comes to producing a live sketch comedy show on a weekly basis, Saturday Night Live has it down to an art. Despite some hilarious unplanned moments like Colin Jost being tricked into taking a shot at his wife Scarlett Johansson and practically the whole cast breaking during Ryan Gosling’s viral “Beavis and Butt-Head” sketch, SNL is largely a well-oiled machine where everyone is able to hit their marks on time. In order to do that, apparently there are some awkward-sounding quick wardrobe changes, and Kristen Wiig and Jon Hamm got real about being naked and seeing “all of the parts.”

Kristen Wiig was a cast member of Saturday Night Live from 2005 to 2012, and has been back several times as a host since then. In fact, the Bridesmaids star joined SNL’s Five-Timers Club with her latest appearance this April. Jon Hamm, on the other hand, has hosted just three times, so Wiig was far more prepared for the naked quick change they were about to endure during one of those tapings. In a conversation with Wiig for Variety, Hamm recalled:

I hosted three times in two years and then never again. The fun part of SNL — one time I was hosting, and we both had quick changes next to each other. And you’re like, ‘Get ready,’ and then we’re both naked. They’re literally tearing clothes off of you. You just have to go with it.

I find it so amusing that Kristen Wiig apparently tried to give Jon Hamm a quick heads-up that his clothes were about to come off, and I have to wonder if they didn’t warn him about that beforehand? There’s no doubt, however, when you have mere seconds to change out of one costume and into another and get back on set for the next sketch, there’s no time for modesty.

Kristen Wiig acknowledged the strangeness of it all, and even though she must have experienced the quick change numerous times over her seven-season stint, she was caught off guard during one of her hosting gigs when she supposedly caught an eyeful of Kenan Thompson. She said:

The last time I was back, I had a quick change. They were stripping me, and I looked over, and Kenan [Thompson] was doing the same thing. I was like, ‘Oh, we’ve seen each other.’

Jon Hamm agreed, adding:

All of the parts. It’s fine. It’s only awkward because you have to submit to it. You’re a total mannequin.

Being able to think of yourself as a mannequin is a pretty good way of alleviating some of the uneasiness that could naturally come with being stripped down by a crew in front of other performers.

Saturday Night Live has wrapped on all the hosts of Season 49, but I bet when when the team hits the stage at 30 Rockefeller Plaza again this fall for its astounding 50th season, you won’t be able to stop yourself from thinking about what happened behind the scenes when a cast member shows up in a new costume after just a few seconds' time. Until then you can relive the Top 5 sketches from Season 49 or any sketch from any show you want, as all 49 seasons are available to stream with a Peacock subscription.

Masters Of The Universe Is Almost Here: Release Date, Cast, And What We Know, Including The Trailer

Hugh Scott — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 15:05:08 +0000

Eternity is calling! After about four decades of starts and stops. A new Master Of The Universe movie is finally part of the 2026 movie schedule. Fans of the franchise know all too well that the promise of a live-action movie based on the toy line from Mattel (and the cartoon that was also born from the action figures) has been in and out of production hell for a long, long time.

With the release of the movie just a couple of weeks away, here's everything we know about the Amazon MGM Studios release.

What Is The Masters Of The Universe Release Date?

Travis Knight Is Directing

(Image credit: Amazon MGM)

Helming Masters of the Universe is Travis Knight, who already has experience with movies about toys, having made his live-action directorial debut with 2018’s Transformers movies spin-off, Bumblebee. His first directing credit was 2016’s Academy Award-winning Kubo and the Two Strings from Laika — the stop-motion animation studio he co-founded to produce acclaimed films like ParaNorman and The Boxtrolls.

Handling screenwriting duties, following a previous draft by David Callaham and Adam Nee, is fellow Laika veteran Chris Butler, who penned the likes of ParaNorman and Missing Link, in addition to working on the storyboarding for stop-motion classics Corpse Bride and Coraline.

Masters Of The Universe Is One Of Many Upcoming Mattel Productions

(Image credit: Warner Bros.)

It would not be too much of a stretch to assume that the Masters of the Universe production got a healthy boost following the success of Barbie. However, He-Man is not the only toy hitting the big screen with help from the pink lady, as there are several other films based on Mattel products currently in the works.

The film studio (and toy company) is reported to be developing projects based on the popular American Girl dolls, a Hot Wheels movie, and a different one based on Matchbox toy cars, and even flicks about the View-Master and the Magic 8 Ball. There are plenty more where those came from on the way.

Previous Adaptations Of The Masters Of The Universe Toys

(Image credit: Filmation)

The Masters of the Universe toy line was first launched by Mattel in 1982. A popular after-school cartoon soon followed, and a notorious live-action box office bomb starring Dolph Lundgren (who reportedly has a cameo in the new movie) as He-Man was released in 1987. The adventures of He-Man and other characters from the franchise were also chronicled in accompanying minicomics, which were followed by a run in DC Comics as well.

The franchise’s first-ever movie, however, was 1985’s He-Man and She-Ra: The Secret of the Sword, which was later televised as a mini-series. The adventures continued to expand on the small screen in later years with 1990’s The New Adventures of He-Man, another remake from 2002.

Two animated reboot series on Netflix in 2021, including the Kevin Smith-produced Masters of the Universe: Revelation, and a 2024 miniseries called Masters of the Universe: Revolution. There were also two spin-off series centered on He-Man's sister, with Netflix's more recent hit She-Ra: Princesses of Power being an update of the characters' '80s spin-off.

Will this new interpretation of Masters of the Universe “have the POWERRRRRRR!” to win audiences over? We will just have to see when He-Man returns to the big screen in 2026.

Ryan Gosling, Matt Damon And More Hilariously Showed Kristen Wiig How Worthless SNL’s Five-Timers Club Jacket Is

Mack Rawden — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 12:16:11 +0000

Former cast member Kristen Wiig hosted Saturday Night Live this weekend. It was the beloved comedian’s fifth time getting the honor, which means she, of course, was inducted into The Five-Timers Club. Fellow member Paul Rudd was there to do the honors, but the normal proceedings hilariously went south after that, as a steady stream of A-listers showed up who didn’t quite meet the requirements.

The monologue started in classic SNL fashion with Wiig taking questions from the audience. Paul Rudd went first and talked about needing the script for The Five-Timers Club sketch, but all of those who followed didn’t meet the requirements. To her horror, however, each one still had the jacket, apparently because headman Lorne Michaels gives them away like mints. In Matt Damon’s case, he got his because his first hosting stint was so good it counted for three and his second one was less good so it counted for two. You can watch the sketch below and check out the murderer’s row of celebrities that stopped by for Wiig’s big moment…

In all, we saw eight people rocking The Five-Timers Club jackets including Rudd, Damon, Ryan Gosling, Martin Short, Jon Hamm, Will Forte, Fred Armisen and Kristen Wiig, who was gifted hers at the end. Wiig and Rudd, of course, earned theirs, while the other non-members of the club have hosted between one and four times each, at least if you count Short’s recent co-hosting stint w/ his Murders In The Building co-star Steve Martin, who himself has hosted almost twenty times.

SNL has had hundreds of guest hosts over the years. A very small percentage of those have been invited back for a second go, and with each additional hosting, the pool gets smaller and smaller. Kristen Wiig is just the twenty-fifth member of the exclusive club, which was hilariously created by Tom Hanks when he passed the milestone. It has since become a fun recurring bit whenever someone new passes the milestone, as we recently saw with Emma Stone when she was inducted earlier this season by John Mulaney and Woody Harrelson.

I’ll also give a special shoutout here to Ryan Gosling. Everyone in Wiig’s Five-Timers sketch was given some lines and a nice moment, but it’s telling where Gosling’s stock is right now that he was given the surprise cameo among the surprise cameos. The whole sketch stopped to acknowledge him, which is huge I’m Just Ken energy.

The rest of Wiig’s hosting appearance was, of course, a delight. Fans were stoked on social media to see her back in Studio 8H, and she delivered with some fantastic sketches including a fake trailer for a pilates horror movie that’s racing around the internet.

Saturday Night Live will return with an all-new episode next week that’ll be hosted by, you guessed it, Ryan Gosling. It’ll only be his third time hosting the show, however, so don’t look for a Five-Timers Club sketch just yet.

The 32 Best One-Liners From Bridesmaids

Riley Utley — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 16:34:52 +0000

The Saturday Night Live alum’s outstanding display of comedy prowess gives the show its best moments as she commits to Maxine in the most full-bodied way possible. Through distinct quirks and mannerisms, Wiig seamlessly develops new vocal and facial attributes to make Maxine feel as real and relatable as possible. Amid slapstick comedy, she gives Maxine immense heart that's rooted in a lack of social awareness, making her endearing and an absolute delight to watch.

While she can definitely play a variety of roles, the Skeleton Twins alum is particularly strong at playing quirkier characters. This was referenced in a review of the show from The Guardian’s Joel Golby, who had mostly positive thoughts to share. His comments on the lead actress’ work may also get fans of Bridesmaids (which still works today) excited:

In Janney and Wiig, the show has two of the planet’s best tight-smile actresses. Wiig in particular brings over what she did so well in Bridesmaids and amplifies it: those excruciating social interactions where you don’t quite realise someone is being rude to you or that you’re being embarrassing – and it’s a lot of fun to watch them flare their eyes at each other like poolside apex predators.

Considering that, I wonder if this series might generate some pieces of dialogue that could be added to the list of Kristen Wiig’s funniest lines. It’s hard not to get that impression when you hear Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times give a glowing review of the production and Wiig’s “virtuoso performance” on it:

It takes all of Kristen Wiig’s magnificent arsenal of comedic and dramatic weapons to launch ‘Palm Royale’ to the land of Worth Your Time Investment. In this 10-part series from Apple TV+ set in Palm Beach high society in 1969, Wiig delivers a virtuoso performance in a role that calls for physical shtick, near-manic mood swings, a song or two, a dance or two and a bounty of perfectly delivered line readings. Wiig can put a spin on a few words of dialogue with the best of ‘em, and she’s a master at playing characters who are sometimes painfully unaware of how they’re perceived.

Not everyone is so taken with this new entry on the 2024 TV schedule, though. One person who wasn’t pleased with it was THR’s Angie Han, who praised the comedy’s visuals but opined that it lacks “true substance.” Nevertheless, she was positive when speaking about the work of the leading lady and the cast:

And the actors certainly come to play: Wiig brings an off-kilter intensity to Maxine’s Barbie-perfect looks and pageant-ready smiles, so that no matter how hard Maxine works to blend in she cannot help but stick out. Janney could play “imposing matriarch” in her sleep, but that makes it no less entertaining to watch her swan around in caftans while cutting Laura Dern’s feminist Linda down to size. Bibb is such a blast playing catty and bratty that I wouldn’t be surprised if her next lead role were cast off the strength of this one. And Ricky Martin, as snarky but secretly sweet bartender Robert, emerges as the closest thing this series has to a beating heart.

Given the talented actors that are present, I’m not too shocked that they bring their A-game. Ultimately though, it seems that Kristen Wiig’s performance is a major reason why the show is so entertaining. Coleman Spilde, a critic for The Daily Beast, also lauded her for her nuanced portrayal of Maxine:

Wiig is an asset to Palm Royale, given that the show’s writing leaves something to be desired. It’s not quite as funny as it could be, and there are occasional pockets of dead air where an off-the-cuff character remark or a little physical gag could easily punch up the material. But Wiig is so skilled that she holds the frame and makes something funny even when there’s nothing overtly comical happening. No one can inhabit a character like Wiig—especially one as subtly layered as Maxine—and Palm Royale is a testament to just how far her singular physicality and timing can take a series. And though the show does hit an occasional rhythmic snag, it settles back into its groove nicely and without too much obvious rejiggering. Like Maxine, you can never let them see you sweat!

It might be too early to say this, but I think the Wonder Woman 1984 actress may find herself at the center of Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG discussions come this awards season. Regardless of any of that though, this fan is just delighted to hear that critics are loving what she delivers through her latest performance. Check out her work when the first three episodes of Palm Royale hit Apple TV+ on March 20 and air weekly from there.

Palm Royale: Release Date, Cast And Other Things To Know About The New Kristen Wiig Show

Alexandra Ramos — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 10:04:55 +0000

If you're excited about Palm Royale, this guide is for you.

Apple TV+ has been responsible for many of the biggest shows of the last few years. Whether you're into Ted Lasso, which finished its third season, or the sci-fi series For All Mankind, there is no doubt that the streaming service has so much to offer regarding content. And now, a new limited series is joining the fray.

Palm Royale, the newest show from Apple TV+, drops later this year. But what do we know about it? And who is going to star? Here is what we know so far.

What Is The Palm Royale Premiere Date?

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

Get excited, TV fans, because Palm Royale is set to release on March 20th, 2024, according to Apple. It will be coming out as part of the 2024 TV premiere schedule, which is crazy, since the trailer didn't drop that long ago.

March itself is light in terms of new TV content. A few shows are returning for additional seasons, and a couple of new ones are being released, but I don't think any of them have gotten as much traction as Palm Royale has. And, it won't be that long until we can watch it.

Check Out The Trailer For Palm Royale

A show trailer is already out if you're interested in Palm Royale. Apple TV+ put it on YouTube in early February 2024, and it features our first look at this stunning cast, these wonderful set pieces, and what a woman will do to fit in with those in high-class society.

Kristen Wiig, Laura Dern, Allison Janney And More Star

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

Palm Royale is one of those limited series where the cast is stacked, so be prepared for a long list of talent coming up:

Kristen Wiig as Maxine Simmons

As the show's main star, Palm Royale's Kristen Wiig has truly been around the block once or twice in terms of Hollywood. While she became famous from her time on Saturday Night Live, she's appeared in many movies before, such as starring in the Bridesmaids cast, co-starred in Mother!, and had voice roles in the Despicable Me movie series, as well as How To Train Your Dragon, among others.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin is another member of the cast, and truthfully, you may know him more for his music career rather than his acting. He's been in the music business for years and has released such songs as "Livin' La Vida Loca" and "She Bangs." Still, he's also appeared in shows such as General Hospital and The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.

Josh Lucas

Josh Lucas is the next cast member in Palm Royale, and he's been in so many films it's almost hard to keep track. Some of his most known include Sweet Home Alabama (one of Reese Witherspoon's best movies), Ford v. Ferrari, American Psycho, A Beautiful Mind, and so many more.

Leslie Bibb

Leslie Bibb is also a part of the cast and has appeared in several films over the years. She played Christine Everhart in the Iron Man franchise in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and appeared in Jupiter's Legacy.

Amber Chardae Robinson

Amber Chardae Robinson has appeared in a variety of movies and TV shows. She had a recurring role in Loot and appeared in The Neighborhood and So Help Me Todd. She also held a role in Judas and the Black Messiah. This will be her first leading role in a TV show.

Mindy Cohn

Mindy Cohn is primarily known for her role on the sitcom, The Facts of Life, and voiced Velma on Scooby Doo for more than a decade. She also appeared in Bones, The Middle, Hot in Cleveland, and many other TV shows, but now she'll be a part of the Palm Royale cast.

Julia Duffy

Julia Duffy is another classic actress who is appearing in Palm Royale. She is primarily known for her role in the TV show Newhart, a role that earned her plenty of acclaim and awards, but she also starred in The Doctors. She's had guest roles on shows like Reba, Drake & Josh, Shameless, and the LGBTQ+ TV show, Looking.

Kaia Gerber

Kaia Gerber is a young actress and the famous daughter of model Cindy Crawford, and Gerber has worked in the modeling industry for some time. However, she has appeared in a few projects, including Damian Chazelle's dazzling Babylon, and was a part of the Bottoms cast. She was also in American Horror Stories, a spinoff anthology show of American Horror Story.

Allison Janney

What can I say about Allison Janney that has yet to be said? Another excellent part of the cast, Janney, has been in various films and TV throughout her career. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for I, Tonya and has starred in such shows as Mom, Masters of Sex, The West Wing, and many others. Most recently, she was a part of the 2023 film, The Creator.

Laura Dern

Laura Dern is also a part of the cast. I know her the most from the Jurassic Park movies, but Dern has been in Hollywood for some time, appearing in films such as Mask, Blue Velvet, Wild, Marriage Story, Little Women, and more. She also had a starring role in Big Little Lies, which earned her a Primetime Emmy Award.

Bruce Dern

Bruce Dern is one of the guest actors set to appear in Palm Royale, and he's Laura Dern's father. He's a ridiculously talented actor with years of experience in the industry, and some of his highlights include Nebraska, Coming Home, The Great Gatsby, The Driver, The Cowboys, and so many more.

Carol Burnett

Carol Burnett is another guest star for Palm Royale, a legendary actor who has appeared in various movies and TV shows, and was the star of The Carol Burnett Show, a significant stepping stone for women on television. One of her most recent appearances was in a guest role on Better Call Saul.

Jeez, talk about a huge cast! This makes me want the show even more.

Palm Royale Follows A Woman Attempting To Fit Into High Society At The Titular Locale

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

If you're wondering what Palm Royale could be about, the new Apple TV+ show asks a simple question: how much of yourself would you be willing to lose to gain what you want? That's what lead character Maxine is experiencing.

The Best Apple TV+ Shows To Watch, Including Ted Lasso

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

If you're looking to watch the best Apple TV+ shows, here is what to check out.

The limited series follows the woman as she tries to fit into the high society of Palm Beach, namely at the Palm Royale, a swanky club for all the rich and elite, in 1969. Despite not fitting in, Maxine is determined to find her place there and will only stop once she does.

As Apple states, it sounds like an "underdog story," but I already signed on for this when I saw how huge this cast is. It's loosely based on the story Mr. & Mrs. American Pie by Juliet McDaniel.

Abe Sylvia Showruns

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

Something else we know is that Abe Sylvia is the showrunner of Palm Royale, and mentioning what he's worked on is essential.

If you like shows like Dead to Me, George and Tammy, The Affair, Nurse Jackie, and more, that's the kind of creative you're getting with Sylvia, as he worked on all of those.

Honestly, this makes me feel like this will be the next best Apple TV+ show. And I am down for it.

Palm Royale Will Have Ten Episodes

(Image credit: Apple TV+)

The last thing we know is that Palm Royale will only have ten episodes, with the first three premiering on March 20th, followed by a weekly release through the finale. It's a shame it's not more, but with a cast like this and sets like that, a girl can understand why it most likely did not go over budget with more episodes.

What are you the most excited for when it comes to Palm Royale? All I know is that March can't get here soon enough.

32 Funniest Lines By Kristen Wiig

The Best Thing These 32 Great SNL Actors Have Starred In Outside Of The Show

Jason Wiese — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 14:04:06 +0000

In its several decades on air, Saturday Night Live has made icons out of many of its cast members. For some — including some of SNL’s one-season wonders — you might argue that the sketch comedy series is the peak of their careers, until you remember the acclaimed and widely beloved movies and TV shows they would go on to star in. Take a look at our picks for the finest work some of our favorite SNL stars have put out beyond their time at Studio 8H.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

Eddie Murphy (Coming To America)

48 Hrs. and Beverly Hills Cop made him a movie star, but Coming to America might be the absolute best Eddie Murphy movie, especially as the first to show just how far the comic’s extraordinary talents extend. He gives his most heartfelt performance as an African prince searching for love in New York City, but that is far from his only role in this dazzling romantic-com from 1988.

(Image credit: Universal)

Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids)

Along with her writing partner, Annie Mumolo, Kristen Wiig joined the club of Oscar-nominated SNL stars for penning this 2011 instant classic comedy. She also transcends what made her a Studio 8H all-star by leading the Bridesmaids cast with her most down-to-earth performance yet as a baker suffering an existential crisis after her best friend (played by Maya Rudolph) gets engaged.

(Image credit: A24)

Adam Sandler (Uncut Gems)

Some argue that an SNL star who should have been nominated for an Oscar is Adam Sandler for his performance in one of the best A24 movies, Uncut Gems. If self-destructive jeweler Howard Rattner had been played by anyone else but the guy behind “The Hanukkah Song” and movies like Happy Gilmore, it might have been tough to root for the protagonist of Josh and Benny Safdie’s anxiety-fueled, 2019 crime drama.

(Image credit: Warner Brothers)

Kate McKinnon (Barbie)

After previously working with Margot Robbie in Bombshell and making the A-lister laugh uncontrollably in an SNL sketch, Kate McKinnon reunited with the Australian actor in the Barbie cast in 2023. The Emmy-winner is perfect as “Weird Barbie” — now a real doll in Mattel’s catalog — in co-writer and director Greta Gerwig’s cleverly satirical and surprisingly moving blockbuster based on the legendary toy.

(Image credit: Columbia Pictures)

Will Ferrell (Stranger Than Fiction)

We love Will Ferrell in funny movies like Elf and Talladega Nights, but never has he given a performance as tender, reserved, and relatable as his Golden Globe-nominated role in Stranger Than Fiction. That is only one reason director Marc Forster’s inventive 2006 dramedy is his best movie in our eyes.

(Image credit: USA Films)

Molly Shannon (Wet Hot American Summer)

The Wet Hot American Summer cast is full of actors who went on to become superstars, but one of the biggest names among that ensemble at the time was SNL great Molly Shannon. She stars in the 2001 cult-favorite summer comedy classic as camp counselor Gail, who seeks consolation for her second divorce from surprisingly mature adolescent campers.

(Image credit: Focus Features)

Bill Murray (Lost In Translation)

To this day, many believe that Bill Murray should have won the Academy Award for his performance in one of the best movies of the 2000s, Lost in Translation. Also one of the best movies produced by Focus Features, he stars in writer and director Sofia Coppola’s Oscar-winning sophomore effort as a disillusioned actor who strikes up a unique bond with a young woman (played by Scarlett Johansson) who is also struggling to navigate her life after meeting in Japan.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

Tina Fey (Mean Girls)

From her time on SNL as a cast member and head writer to her development of beloved comedies like 30 Rock and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Tina Fey has had one of the most impressive careers in comedy, let alone show business in general. However, her one credit that has best stood the test of time is her sharply satirical high school movie, Mean Girls, which she adapted from Rosalind Wiseman’s book and also stars in as Ms. Norbury.

(Image credit: Universal)

Dan Aykroyd (The Blues Brothers)

Dan Aykroyd may have a Best Picture Oscar winner under his belt (Driving Miss Daisy, for which he also received an acting nomination) and also wrote and starred in one of the beloved Ghostbusters. However, the movie that he will always be best known for is 1980’s The Blues Brothers, which is arguably the all-time best movie based on SNL characters (Ayrkoyd and John Belushi’s brotherly musicians, Jake and Elwood Blues) and one of the most important movies set in Chicago as well.

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Gilda Radner (Haunted Honeymoon)

Highlights of Gilda Radner’s post-SNL career included sharing the screen with her husband, Gene Wilder, such as 1986’s Haunted Honeymoon, in which they play a couple staying in a spooky house to cure the groom’s anxieties. Unfortunately, the fun horror-comedy movie would also be her final film before she passed away in 1989.

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Chevy Chase (Community)

After making a huge impact in so little time on SNL (not even two full seasons), Chevy Chase had a memorable film career (especially with National Lampoon’s Vacation movies), but it was his return to the small screen in the late 2000s that really had us especially impressed. He starred in the Community cast as Pierce Hawthorne — one of many Greendale Community College students experiencing often strange circumstances and meta pop-culture references in creator Dan Harmon’s inventive sitcom.

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Chris Farley (Tommy Boy)

Perhaps the most influential ‘90s SNL actor was the late Chris Farley, whose one-in-a-million, energetic comedic talent made him a legend. He also made an impeccable team with fellow SNL actor David Spade in the hilarious road trip comedy, and one of the funniest and most iconic movies of the ‘90s, Tommy Boy.

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Jimmy Fallon (Almost Famous)

Jimmy Fallon has had a stellar career, from his memorable SNL stint to hosting The Tonight Show, but most of his movies did not quite have the same impact — save his Oscar-winning feature-length debut in 2000. Fallon starred in writer and director Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous cast as the touring manager for Stillwater, Dennis Hope.

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Amy Poehler (Inside Out)

Amy Poehler is the kind of performer who brings a sense of joy to everything she does, from her SNL days to the Parks and Recreation cast as Leslie Knope. Thus, it only makes sense that she would star as the personification of “Joy” in one of Pixar’s best movies: 2015’s Inside Out.

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Will Forte (Nebraska)

We all know and love the masterfully goofy Will Forte from the “MacGruber” sketches and as the star and creator of a show canceled too soon called The Last Man on Earth, but 2013’s Nebraska showed a rare side of the actor we cherished seeing. He gives a somber, yet beautifully endearing, performance in director Alexander Payne’s Oscar-nominated drama as a man accompanying his estranged father (played by Bruce Dern) on a trip to collect a supposed million-dollar prize.

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Maya Rudolph (The Way Way Back)

Maya Rudolph’s career outside SNL has been nothing short of impressive, but we were most impressed by her work in 2013’s The Way Way Back. From the Oscar-winning writing duo behind The Descendants (Nat Faxon and Jim Rash), this winning dramedy features Rudolph as Caitlin, a manager at a water park where teen protagonist Duncan (Liam James) works to escape a miserable summer at his mother’s boyfriend’s house.

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Bill Hader (Barry)

Bill Hader never failed to surprise audiences with his impeccable impersonations and excellent commitment to character on SNL, but he surprised us in other ways with his first major small-screen follow-up. He played the title role of HBO’s Barry cast (in addition to co-creating the very dark comedy series), who is a hitman trying to reinvent himself as an actor.

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Cecily Strong (Schmigadoon!)

One of the greatest surprises of John Mulaney’s SNL musical sketches was Cecily Strong’s smashing singing voice. It would also come in handy when she and Keegan-Michael Key led AppleTV+’s Schmigadoon! cast as a couple trapped in a world that looks and sounds like a lavish musical production.

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Chris Rock (Nurse Betty)

In 2000, Chris Rock teamed up with Morgan Freeman as hitmen searching for a delusional widow (played by Renée Zellweger) convinced she is engaged to a soap opera character in director Neil LaBute’s sharp, quirky dramedy, Nurse Betty. We will, however, give an honorable mention for one of the best sitcoms starring an SNL vet, Everybody Hates Chris, which the comedian created and narrated.

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Jane Curtin (3rd Rock From The Sun)

Years after playing an alien in, arguably, her single funniest SNL sketch (“The Coneheads”), Jane Curtin played one of the few human series regulars on a series also about otherworldly visitors trying to blend in. The former “Weekend Update” anchor starred on NBC’s hit sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun as Dr. Mary Albright, a colleague, and later fiancée, of Dick Solomon (John Lithgow) at Pendleton State University.

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Andy Samberg (Palm Springs)

There is only so much that we are actually willing to reveal about our pick for Andy Samberg’s best effort outside of SNL, Palm Springs, for anyone who has not seen it yet. What we will say is that the 2020 rom-com — and one of the best movies on Hulu — stars the Lonely Island member and Golden Globe-winning Brooklyn Nine-Nine actor and Cristin Milioti as wedding guests who become embroiled in a very strange predicament.

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Mike Myers (Shrek)

We love almost all of the characters Mike Myers has created or portrayed, from Wayne Campbell to Austin Powers, but picking his true all-time best work outside of Studio 8H is easy. Myers put on his best Scottish accent to voice the title role of 2001’s Shrek — the first movie to win the Best Animated Feature Oscar, for its sharp send-up of fairytale tropes and heartwarming unlikely romance.

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Pete Davidson (The King Of Staten Island)

There have been some great Pete Davidson movies and TV shows over the years, but the former SNL star’s best work might also be one of his most personal. The Bupkis cast member based The King of Staten Island (which he co-wrote with director Judd Apatow) on his own life as the son of a firefighter who tragically passed on 9/11.

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Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld)

Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ time on SNL often goes forgotten, but you cannot say the same about the career she had after the show, which includes Emmy wins for shows like Veep and joining the MCU. However, she really blew up when she joined the Seinfeld cast as Elaine Benes, who was the focus of many classic and hilarious moments on the legendary sitcom.

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Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso)

Jason Sudeikis is the kind of SNL performer who could make the Devil himself seem likable, which is why he was the perfect choice for the charming lead of the Ted Lasso cast for Apple TV+. Indeed, his Emmy-winning performance as the titular American football coach hired to manage an English football (a.k.a. soccer) team is key to its jubilant success.

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Norm Macdonald (Dirty Work)

In 1998, the same year that the late Norm Macdonald was infamously fired from SNL, the actor came out with one of his best movies, Dirty Work. Also written by Macdonald and directed by Bob Saget, the comedy about a man who literally becomes a specialist in the business of revenge has gained a cult following despite getting bad reviews in the 90s.

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Kenan Thompson (D2: The Mighty Ducks)

Before he became one of the longest-running SNL cast members, Kenan Thompson was part of Nickelodeon’s more kid-friendly sketch comedy, All That. However, before then, the Emmy winner made his acting debut in one of the greatest hockey movies, D2: the Mighty Ducks as the inventor of the Knuckle Puck, Russ.

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Ana Gasteyer (Happiest Season)

As the creator of beloved sketches like “NPR’s Delicious Dish” and the astonishing ability to hide when sketches don’t go as planned, Ana Gasteyer’s SNL days do not get talked about enough. In 2020, she appeared alongside the Happiest Season cast in a brief, but memorable, role in the acclaimed LGBTQ+ romance dramedy.

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Fred Armisen (Portlandia)

While he was still on SNL, Fred Armisen was the driving force of a whole different kind of sketch comedy series called Portlandia. In partnership with non-SNL sketch comedy actor Carrie Brownstein, the pair poked fun at life in Portland in a Monty Python-esque style of quirky and bizarre bits.

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Tim Meadows (Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping)

Despite his impressively long tenure, Tim Meadows is one of the most criminally underrated SNL actors and his big-screen presence is no different. Case in point: even one of his most prominent movie roles is from a vastly underrated, mockumentary-style comedy, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping, from 2106 as Harry, manager to conner4real (Andy Samberg).

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Tracy Morgan (30 Rock)

How fitting that one of Tracy Morgan’s greatest successes after being a sketch comedy show performer was playing a sketch comedy show performer. The comic stole every scene in creator and star Tina Fey’s brilliantly surreal broadcasting satire, 30 Rock, as over-the-top actor, Tracy Jordan.

(Image credit: Hulu)

Aidy Bryant (Shrill)

Even before she left SNL (a bit later than she anticipated as a result of Covid-19), Aidy Bryant had already ventured on with a series of her own called Shrill. The actor received an Emmy nomination for her performance on the Hulu original comedy (which she also co-created) as an overweight journalist aspiring to change who she is inside without changing who she is outside.

Even if Saturday Night Live is what these actors are remembered best for, that does not mean it will always be the best thing they are remembered for.

Dan Aykyrod. Jim Belushi. Kristen Wiig. How Lorne Michaels Reacts When SNL Stars Move On To Bigger Projects

Megan Behnke — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 02:20:14 +0000

As Saturday Night Live inches closer to Season 50, the long-running variety sketch series is still going as strong as ever. Of course, in recent years, the show has continued to go through major cast changes, which is par for the course for such a long-running program. Plenty of major stars got their start on the show, before going on to even bigger gigs. That being said, how does SNL creator Lorne Michaels feel about the likes of Dan Aykroyd, Jim Belushi, Kristen Wiig and more leaving?

Many SNL alums became sitcom stars after leaving or made their mark as movie actors -- or both. From Adam Sandler to Jimmy Fallon to Tiny Fey and others, the show was the starting point for many careers. In 2022, Lorne Michaels opened up about eight cast members leaving ahead of Season 48, noting it was natural for the exiting stars, including Kate McKinnon, Pete Davidson and Aidy Bryant, wanting to move on. Dan Aykroyd, who was a cast member on the late-night mainstay during its first four seasons, told Newsweek that Michaels has done a great job dealing with the constant cast rotations and praised his supportive nature:

Lorne is not a dictator, nor is he a prison warden. If an artist comes to him and says, 'I've got to go, I want to move on to other things,' Lorne has always been gracious about it. He doesn't jump up and down thrilled about it when key members move on, but he's always supportive.

Considering how long Saturday Night Live has been on and how many cast members the series has gone through, Lorne Michaels has seen a lot of people come and go. While it’s rarely ever easy for fans to see someone leave the program, it’s usually for a pretty good reason. In most cases, it's because a cast member is ready to move on to the next phase of their career. It’s nice knowing that Michaels is supportive, even if he's not necessarily leaping for joy over it.

He's seen some major people step away from the stage at Studio 8H over the years. Dan Aykyrod remained on the show from 1975 to 1979. Meanwhile, John Belushi appeared on the show (and served as a writer) from 1983 to 1985. Kristen Wiig had the longest stint of the trio, starring in seven seasons, between 2005 and 2012.

30+ Beloved SNL Sketches And Who Created Them

Jason Wiese — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 01:04:04 +0000

32 Comedians Who Were Great In A Dramatic Role

Philip Sledge — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:04:26 +0000

We see it quite often – comedians and comedic actors cut their teeth performing stand-up or appearing on beloved sketch comedy shows before knocking everyone’s socks off with a remarkable and remarkably emotional dramatic role. Sometimes, these earn the actors and actresses Academy Awards or at least their first Oscar nomination for unforgettable performances that make us cry as much as they once made us laugh.

That being said, here are 32 examples of people known for their comedy being great in dramatic roles…

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Robin Williams

Even before Robin Williams earned a much-deserved Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting, the comedian proved time and time again that he was more than capable when it came to dramatic roles. In fact some of Williams’ best movies like Dead Poets Society and Awakenings showed early on what he could achieve in a less comedic capacity. And let’s not forget his frightening turns in One Hour Photo and Insomnia.

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Jim Carrey

After being an almost guaranteed box office draw in the mid 1990s, Jim Carrey showed he was more than just an over-the-top slapstick comedian with roles in The Truman Show and Man on the Moon. However, Carrey’s most notable dramatic turn, and probably his best overall performance can be found in 2004’s Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

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Eddie Murphy

For years, Eddie Murphy was well-known for beloved comedic roles in classics like Coming to America, 48 Hrs., and Beverly Hills Cop, but he’s also displayed a more dramatic side over the years. At the top of this list is Dreamgirls, the 2006 musical drama that saw him take on the role of James “Thunder” Early, a performance that should have earned him an Oscar.

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Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is an all-time great comedian who has made audiences laugh with her stand-up specials and various film and TV projects for the better part of the past 40 years. During that time, Goldberg has also given us some of the richest and most nuanced dramatic performances like her take on Celie Harris Johnson in Steven Spielberg’s The Color Purple, which earned her a Golden Globe and numerous other accolades.

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Adam Sandler

When he wants, Adam Sandler can stand toe-to-toe with just about any living actor. Though he’s mostly known for his various comedies like Happy Gilmore, The Waterboy, and the Grown Ups movies, let’s not forget his outstanding dramatic performances in Punch-Drunk Love, Reign Over Me, and Uncut Gems. Watching Sandler in the Safdie Brothers’ 2019 crime thriller is like watching a completely different actor.

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Steve Carell

Around the same time Steve Carell was making us fall over with laughter with his portrayal as Michael Scott on The Office, he was also giving audiences some of the best dramatic performances in movies like Little Miss Sunshine and Foxcatcher. Even since then, Carell has continued to steal the show with heart-wrenching turns in Beautiful Boy and Last Flag Flying.

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Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx made a name for himself as one of the funniest comedians on the planet in the early ‘90s thanks to shows like In Living Color and The Jamie Foxx Show, which he followed up with some truly great movies in the final decade of the 20th century. But in 2004, Foxx showed off his dramatic chops in Michael Mann’s thrilling Collateral and the must-watch music biopic, Ray, a performance that earned him an Oscar.

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Aubrey Plaza

To some, Aubrey Plaza will always be remembered for her hilarious portrayal of April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation, but the comedian has given some commanding dramatic performances over the years as well. Movies like Emily the Criminal and Black Bear, as well as the second season of The White Lotus, have shown she’s a force to be reckoned with.

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Melissa McCarthy

Okay, Melissa McCarthy may be one of the funniest comedic actors on the planet right now, but let’s not overlook her gripping portrayal of literary fraudster Lee Israel in 2018’s Can You Ever Forgive Me, a movie that saw her hold her own with Richard E. Grant. That’s not nothing.

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Will Ferrell

Though Will Ferrell’s dramatic roles still have the comedian's unique style of humor, his performances in Everything Must Go and Stranger Than Fiction are still worth bringing up. He’s less manic and a tad bit quieter in these two movies, but that charm is still there, which really messes with your head.

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Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller has shown over the years that he can do more than play the lovable loser in movies like Meet the Parents, detestable villains in Dodgeball, or caricatures of models in Zoolander. In fact, he’s given quite a few outstanding dramatic performances in everything from The Secret Life of Walter Mitty to the gutting Permanent Midnight.

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Mo'Nique

In addition to being a prolific comedian with multiple stand-up specials including The Queens of Comedy, as well as having a lead role on the long-running sitcom, The Parkers, Mo’Nique is also an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA winner thanks to her lights out performance in the 2009 drama film, Precious.

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Bette Midler

Bette Midler has made us laugh ourselves out of our seats countless times over the years, but her performance as Cecilia Bloom in Beaches has been making everyone cry for decades now. It’s impossible to listen to “Wind Beneath My Wings” without thinking of that masterful dramatic turn.

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Richard Pryor

Legendary stand-up comedian Richard Pryor had a series of comedies with frequent collaborator Gene Wilder at the height of his career, but the comic also gave a dynamic dramatic performance in Paul Schrader’s 1978 crime film, Blue Collar. The movie, which showed the actor’s range, also featured Harvey Keitel and Yaphet Kotto. Talk about a cast.

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Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin, an actress who continues to thrive decades into her career, is best known for performances in comedies like 9 to 5, shows like Grace and Frankie, and various stand-up specials and Broadway productions. But Tomlin can also pull off dramatic roles like her Academy Award-nominated performance in Nashville, her feature film debut.

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Albert Brooks

Albert Brooks is wonderfully hilarious in movies like Finding Nemo, Broadcast News, and so many others, but his trademark happy-go-lucky and funny sensibility and charm went out the window with his bone-chilling portrayal of Bernie Rose in Drive. Ice cold.

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Marlon Wayans

Here’s something wild to think about: Marlon Wayans played the stereotypical stoner Shorty in the parody horror flick Scary Movie and Tyrone in Darren Aronofsky’s devastating drama Requiem for a Dream in the same year. During the latter film’s development, the star of The Wayan Bros., the comedian had to go through five auditions.

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Kristen Wiig

Some of Kristen Wiig’s best movies are those that lean more towards the dramatic side of the spectrum, with Mother, The Skeleton Twins, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty all coming to mind. This isn’t to say her comedic work isn’t great, as Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is legitimately one of the funniest movies of the 2020s.

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Jason Segel

Jason Segel, through shows like Freaks & Geeks and How I Met Your Mother, has shown time after time that he’s undeniably hilarious. However, through work in movies like The End of the Tour and the 1999 dramedy SLC Punk, the actor has proven he can handle more dramatic performances as good as the rest.

(Image credit: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution)

Steve Martin

On top of being the all-time best SNL host, Steve Martin is also one of the most prolific actors of our time. But in addition to all of that, the actor, writer, musician, and what we can assume is a generally good hang, Martin can also pull off more dramatic roles. This can best be seen in the 2005 romantic drama, Shopgirl, which was based on one of his novellas.

Maya Rudolph

Two years after her Saturday Night Live tenure came to an end, Maya Rudolph gave a passionate and beautiful performance in Sam Mendes’ 2009 dramedy, Away We Go. The role, which saw her play the pregnant wife trying to find a place to settle down, allowed the comedic actress to play a more grounded, and sincere character.

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Goldie Hawn

In 1991, Goldie Hawn took on the role of Adrienne Saunders in Damian Harris’ psychological thriller, Deceived, which saw her play the wife of the manipulative Frank Sullivan (John Heard in a devilish role). Though the movie wasn’t all that well-received, Hawn was still masterful in it, showing a great deal of range in the process.

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Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen has given one wonderfully funny performance after another for nearly the past quarter-century, but the actor and writer behind movies like Superbad and Pineapple Express can handle his own when it comes to drama. Danny Boyle’s 2015 biopic, Steve Jobs, saw the comedian portray Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, which required him to go head-to-head with Michael Fassbender’s tech CEO in some extremely intense scenes.

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Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart made the jump to serious drama in The Upside in 2019, an English remake of the french film, The Intouchables. However, this wouldn’t be a one and done type situation for the comedian. He would give another emotional performance in the 2021 Netflix drama, Fatherhood, in which he played a widower trying to raise his daughter in the wake of his wife’s sudden passing.

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Jack Black

After dipping his toes in the drama waters with his charming performance in The Holiday, Jack Black played his darkest role yet in the 2011 crime biopic, Bernie. In Richard Linklater’s movie, Black took on the role of mortician Bernhardt “Bernie” Tiede, who was later convicted of murdering his friend and millionaire Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLane).

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Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick is best known for her starring roles in musical comedies like the Pitch Perfect franchise and the Trolls animated movies, but the comedic actress has also given commanding dramatic performances. This includes the likes of Up in the Air, 50/50, Alice Darling, and A Simple Favor, all of which show her dynamic range.

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Awkwafina

If you look at Awkwafina’s best movies, you’ll see a lot of great comedies like Crazy Rich Asians, Ocean’s Eight, and Quiz Lady. However, you’ll also find Lulu Wang’s 2019 drama, The Farewell, which saw the comedian pull off a whole range of emotions throughout its story. In fact, she even won a Golden Globe for her performance.

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John Lithgow

John Lithgow has had a remarkable career full of great comedies, including 3rd Rock from the Sun and Shrek, but he’s also given some impressive dramatic performances throughout his career. Be it shows like Dexter and The Crown or a list of movies that includes Killers of the Flower Moon, Terms of Endearment, and Interstellar, the decorated actor has always been able to pull off some impressive feats.

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Jerry Lewis

One-half of Martin and Lewis with Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis was one of the funniest names in show business throughout his career, be it with his Vegas shows or various movies like The Nutty Professor and The Ladies Man. But Lewis also gave a terrific dramatic performance in Martin Scorsese’s The King of Comedy, which saw the legendary comedian play a late night TV host kidnapped by an obsessed fan (played by Robert De Niro).

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Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston will always be remembered for her take on Rachel Green in the landmark sitcom, Friends, but the actress has since taken on some rather dramatic roles that worked quite well. One of the most notable is the 2014 drama, Cake, which saw Aniston take on the role of a woman coming to terms with the death of her son.

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Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill spent the better part of the 2000s appearing in comedies like Superbad, Grandma’s Boy, and Accepted, but he started to take more dramatic roles in the 2010s. One of the most promising was his part in 2011’s Moneyball, which saw him play Billy Beane’s (Brad Pitt) incredibly intelligent (and sometimes awkward) assistant to great effect.

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Steve Coogan

Steve Coogan is lights out in comedies like the Night at the Museum movies and Tropic Thunder, but he was equally as good in the 2013 drama film, Philomena, which saw him take on the role of a journalist helping a woman (played by Judi Dench) track down the son she was force to give up for adoption decades earlier.

Each of these comedians found a way to turn audience expectations on their head and give us some all-time great dramatic performances. It’s safe to say we’ll never forget some of these beloved, and wonderfully emotional roles and the people who brought them to life.

Every SNL Cast Member Who Has Been Nominated For An Oscar

Jason Wiese — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:04:15 +0000

In its nearly half a century on the air, Saturday Night Live has launched the careers of many icons who would go on to score some truly remarkable achievements. In fact, there are quite a few who have received attention from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for the talents they expressed on the big screen and, in some cases, from behind the camera. Let’s take a look at all the SNL stars with an Oscar nomination (and one with an Oscar win)… so far.

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Dan Aykroyd (Best Supporting Actor, Driving Miss Daisy)

Following his stint as a founding SNL cast member, Dan Aykroyd went on to have a stellar movie career — including a few movies based on SNL characters, like The Blues Brothers. However, it is one of his more dramatic roles as Boolie Werthan in 1989’s Driving Miss Daisy that earned him recognition from The Academy. While Aykroyd did not take home the Best Supporting Actor Oscar, the film took home four statuettes for Best Picture, Actress (Jessica Tandy), Makeup, and Adapted Screenplay.

(Image credit: Coe-David Ltd.)

George Coe (Best Live Action Short, De Düva: The Dove)

George Coe — who actually starred in the Best Picture Oscar winner Kramer vs. Kramer — was only credited as a Not Ready For Primetime Player on SNL’s very first episode, and he went on to occasionally appear in sketches throughout the freshman run. However, years earlier, he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short for 1968’s De Düva: The Dove, which he co-directed with Anthony Lover. The filmmaker — who passed away in 2015 — also acted in the 15-minute parody of Ingmar Bergman films, alongside two-time Oscar nominee Madeline Kahn and Pamela Burrell of 1980's Popeye fame.

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Joan Cusack (Best Supporting Actress, Working Girl And In & Out)

While only lasting on SNL for one season from 1985 to 1986, Joan Cusack went on to become the first alum to earn two Academy Award nominations not long after. Her first nod, for Best Supporting Actress, was for stealing the show in 1988’s Working Girl as Cyn. Her second nomination — and in the same category — was for her hilarious performance as one of the best ‘90s movie supporting characters, Emily Montgomery, in 1997’s In & Out.

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Robert Downey Jr. (Win: Best Supporting Actor, Oppenheimer; Nominations: Best Actor, Chaplin; Best Supporting Actor, Tropic Thunder)

Though his single year on SNL is often forgotten, former Marvel movies star Robert Downey Jr. is known today as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic talents and his performances as recognized by the Academy are proof of why. He was first nominated for a dramatic performance as silent-era comedian Charlie Chaplin in Richard Attenborough’s 1992 biopic, Chaplin, and again for his comedic performance as horribly misguided dramatic actor, Kirk Lazarus, in director Ben Stiller’s bold satire, Tropic Thunder, from 2008. He would finally take home the Best Supporting Actor Oscar (and become the first winning SNL cast alum) at the 2024 Academy Awards for his mesmerizing portrayal in Cristopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer cast as Lewis Strauss.

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Michael McKean (Best Original Song, A Mighty Wind)

While best known to modern audiences for his Emmy-nominated work as Better Call Saul character, Chuck McGill, Michael McKean’s all-time biggest claim-to-fame are his collaborations with director and co-star (as well as fellow SNL alum) Christopher Guest on hilarious faux documentaries like Best in Show — one of the best movies of the 2000s — and A Mighty Wind.

The latter 2003 comedy — about a folk music reunion concert — was nominated for one Oscar for the original song, “A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow,” which McKean wrote with Annette O’Toole for Mitch & Mickey (Schitt’s Creek cast members Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara) to perform.

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Laurie Metcalf (Best Supporting Actress, Lady Bird)

You would be forgiven if Laurie Metcalf's two contributions to SNL — a brief bit on “Weekend Update” and a short film also starring Catherine O’Hara — slipped your mind. She is much better known anyway for her role as Jackie on Roseanne (and The Conners), playing Sheldon's mom on The Big Bang Theory, and her Oscar-nominated role in writer and director Greta Gerwig's acclaimed A24 movie, 2017's Lady Bird, as the mother of the title character.

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Eddie Murphy (Best Supporting Actor, Dreamgirls)

Another SNL veteran who has tried his hand at making music is Eddie Murphy, who had a Rick James-produced hit in 1985 with “Party All the Time.” However, some might say the peak of his musical talents (and acting talents) was his performance in one of his best movies, Dreamgirls, as titillating R&B singer, James “Thunder” Early. The role — seen as a comeback for the comedy legend at the time — earned Murphy a Golden Globe win and an Oscar nomination, but, much to the surprise of many, the statuette ultimately went to Alan Arkin for Little Miss Sunshine.

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Bill Murray (Best Actor, Lost In Translation)

After joining SNL as Chevy Chase’s replacement, Bill Murray, arguably, became an even bigger icon after he left the show — partially because of his willingness to branch out beyond comedy. Of course, writer and director Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation — one of the best movies produced by Focus Features — is not without its funny moments, but Murray’s performance as a fading movie star working as a spokesperson for a Japanese whiskey is a captivating meditation on loneliness. The Ghostbusters star absolutely earned his Oscar nomination for the role and, as some might argue, should have won.

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Randy Quaid (Best Supporting Actor, The Last Detail)

The second person to become an SNL cast member with an Academy Award nomination before joining the show (after George Coe) was Randy Quaid, who was a regular for the 1985-1986 season. The performance that put the National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation cast member in the running for an Oscar was 1973’s The Last Detail. He played Larry Meadows — a Navy seaman, dishonorably discharged for stealing, whom two first-class officers (Jack Nicholson and Otis Young) decide to show a good time before bringing him to prison.

(Image credit: Universal)

Kristen Wiig (Best Original Screenplay, Bridesmaids)

The only Bridesmaids cast member to be recognized by the Academy for acting was Melissa McCarthy, but the brilliant Kristen Wiig — a member of, arguably, the best cast in SNL history — still got some deserved attention. Her script for the beloved 2011 comedy, which she co-wrote with her future Barb and Star co-star, Annie Mumolo, was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay that year.

In addition to Robert Downey Jr’s win for acting in Oppenheimer, there are a couple of former backstage Studio 8H employees who have taken home Oscars – such as former SNL music director, Howard Shore. He won three Academy Awards for Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings movies (scoring The Fellowship of the Ring and The Return of the King and co-writing the song, “Into the West,” from the latter). Also, former writer Adam McKay has seven nominations under his belt, with one win for adapting The Big Short with Charles Randolph.

Now, we'll just have to wait and see if and when any more Saturday Night Live alums from behind and in front of the camera become Oscar darlings.

30+ Successful Actors Who Are Also Hit Screenwriters

Philip Sledge — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 09:04:03 +0000

For quite some time, there have been actors who not only bring movies to life by acting on the big screen but also play a major role in crafting the stories. Over the years, multiple Best Picture winners have been written by talented thespians, who also happen to be accomplished wordsmiths. From stars who've pieced together films that would earn them their first Academy Award nominations to those penning passion projects, here are 32 successful actors who are also hit screenwriters.

(Image credit: Miramax)

Ben Affleck

In early 1998, Ben Affleck became one of the biggest stars in Hollywood after he and Matt Damon won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Good Will Hunting. The movie made the longtime friends -- who didn't always work together -- into overnight sensations. Since then, he’s written four additional films: Gone Baby Gone, Live by Night, The Town and The Last Duel, which he co-wrote with Damon.

(Image credit: Miramax)

Matt Damon

As mentioned, Matt Damon took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for Good Will Hunting in 1998. The movie, of course, also featured his Academy Award-worthy performance as a troubled young genius. Since then, he’s co-written two additional Gus Van Sant-directed scripts – Gerry in 2002, Promised Land in 2012 – as well as the Ridley Scott historical epic, The Last Duel, which he penned with Ben Affleck.

(Image credit: Paramount Plus)

Jordan Peele

After finding success with Key & Peele, Jordan Peele turned to more behind-the-scenes work, serving as both a director and screenwriter. From his 2016 comedy, Keanu to 2022’s Nope and Wendell & Wild, Peele has cemented his legacy as one of the strongest voices in Hollywood. He won an Oscar for his Get Out screenplay in 2018 and produced two of the best horror movies in recent memory: Us and Candyman.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

Tina Fey

Tina Fey will forever be remembered as one of the best Saturday Night Live cast members, and that experience allowed her to fine-tune her writing and acting skills. In addition to starring in movies like Baby Mama, Date Night and Muppets Most Wanted, Fey famously wrote the screenplay for Mean Girls, which is one of the best movies of the 2000s.

(Image credit: United Artists)

Sylvester Stallone

A handful of the best action movies of all time were written by none other than Sylvester Stallone, who has flexed his muscles in front of the camera and behind the scenes. All of the Rocky films (as well as Creed II) were written by Stallone, as were the Rambo flicks and pretty much most of his best big-screen ventures.

(Image credit: Warner Independent Pictures)

George Clooney

George Clooney has plenty of notable movies like Ocean’s Eleven, Syriana, Michael Clayton and even the over-the-top Batman & Robin. But the Academy Award-winning actor has also penned quite a few screenplays over the years, including the ones for Good Night, and Good Luck, The Ides of March, Leatherheads, The Monuments Men and Suburbicon.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Kristen Wiig

Two of the funniest movies of the past decade-and-a-half – Bridesmaids and Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar – not only featured the Saturday Night Live legend Kristen Wiig's on-screen talents, they were also co-written by the actress. And penning those screenplays alongside her was co-star Annie Mumolo.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Tyler Perry

In addition to being a committed philanthropist and all-around great guy, Tyler Perry is also an incredibly successful actor, movie producer, and screenwriter. Throughout his career, Perry has written multiple entries in the Madea film franchise as well as other films like A Jazzman’s Blues, Acrimony, and Why Did I Get Married?, to name a few.

(Image credit: IFC Films)

Greta Gerwig

Greta Gerwig has become famous for her Barbie screenplay (which was co-written by Noah Baumbach), but that's only one of the great scripts written by the talented actress. In addition to starring in several dozen movies over the years, Gerwig also penned modern gems like Frances Ha, Lady Bird, Mistress America and Little Women.

(Image credit: BBC)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge

In addition to being a talented actress with multiple scene-stealing performances in movies like Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Solo: A Star Wars Story, Phoebe Waller-Bridge is a talented writer. She created and penned the shows Fleabag and Killing Eve and received a partial writing credit for her contributions on No Time to Die.

(Image credit: HBO)

Justin Theroux

Throughout his career, Justin Theroux has starred in movies like Mulholland Drive, Miami Vice and American Psycho. However, he also has some impressive screenwriting credits to his name. With work on Iron Man 2, Tropic Thunder, Rock of Ages and Zoolander 2, he has quite the body of work.

(Image credit: Amazon Studios)

Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson is an actress with a great filmography, through which she's worked both in front of and behind the camera. In fact, Thompson has Academy Awards for Best Actress (for Howards End) and Best Adapted Screenplay (for Sense and Sensibility). She’s also penned movies like Bridget Jones’s Baby, Last Christmas and the Nanny McPhee films.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton is another actor who has won an Academy Award for writing, having scored a Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar for his work on Sling Blade, which he also starred in and directed. Over the years, some of Thornton's best movies -- like One False Move, A Family Thing, The Gift and Daddy and Them were also written by the actor himself.

(Image credit: Netflix)

Emerald Fennell

After finding success with acting roles in movies like Albert Nobbs, Anna Karenina and The Danish Girl, as well as shows like Call the Midwife and The Crown, Emerald Fennell turned her attention to writing and directing. Her feature film debut, Promising Young Woman, earned her a Best Original Screenplay Oscar. She also crafted the script for the drama film Saltburn.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks is another Oscar winner with a number of screenwriting credits to his name. In addition to leading some of the best movies of all time, Hanks has also penned the screenplays for That Thing You Do, Larry Crowne and the 2020 World War II thriller Greyhound.

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani has starred in all kinds of movies over the years, with Eternals, Stuber and The Lovebirds being just a few of them. But Nanjiani also wrote the screenplay for The Big Sick, the 2018 romantic comedy inspired by the battles he and wife Emily V. Gordon faced early in their relationship.

(Image credit: Disney)

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd not only starred in one of the best Marvel movies such as Ant-Man, he was also one the writers given credit for its screenplay (alongside Edgar Wright, Joe Cornish, and Adam McKay). But that wasn’t his first or last script, as Rudd contributed to Role Models and Ant-Man and the Wasp.

(Image credit: Marvel)

Ethan Hawke

Throughout his career, Ethan Hawke has starred in movies like Reality Bites, Boyhood, First Reformed and The Black Phone, among many others. However, the actor has also written his fair share of screenplays as well, with everything from the second and third installments in the Before film franchise to the gripping biopic Blaze featuring his handiwork.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Angelina Jolie

Over the years, Angelina Jolie has become an instantly recognizable face and name thanks to a number of wonderful performances. The actress has also a few screenwriting credits, including In the Land of Blood and Honey, First They Killed My Father and By the Sea.

(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)

Kenneth Branagh

To some Kenneth Branagh is arguably better known as a screenwriter than actor. That's because he won Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for the semi autobiographical coming-of-age drama Belfast and received a nomination for his adaptation of Hamlet back in 1995. The Christopher Nolan collaborator has also written other films like Much Ado About Nothing, In the Bleak Midwinter, Listening and The Magic Flute.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Steve Coogan

Steve Coogan is famous for his performances in the Night at the Museum movies, Tropic Thunder, 24 Hour Party People, and The Trip, but he’s also a talented writer. Over the years, Coogan has written movies like Philomena, The Lost King, The Parole Officer and Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa.

(Image credit: Universal)

Sarah Polley

After making a name for herself as an actress with roles in movies like Go, The Weight of Water and the underrated Dawn of the Dead remake, Sarah Polley turned her jumped into the writer/director seat. One of her most well-known scripts is probably 2022's Women Talking, which earned her an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen has written some of the comedies that defined the 2000s, such as Pineapple Express and Superbad, as well as more recent hits like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. This is on top of appearing in all three of those movies, as well as other classics like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, which totally deserved its R rating.

(Image credit: Paramount Network)

Taylor Sheridan

Taylor Sheridan is mostly known for crafting Sicario, Wind River, Hell or High Water and other riveting dramas. But the Yellowstone co-creator also had a decent acting career before making the big shift over the past decade. He appeared on shows like Sons of Anarchy and Veronica Mars.

(Image credit: Roadside Attractions)

Lake Bell

In addition to appearing in movies like No Escape, No Strings Attached, It’s Complicated and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Lake Bell has also written and directed a few projects throughout her career. There are the shorts Worst Enemy and El Tonto, which she followed up with feature-length films, In a World… and I Do… Until I Don’t.

(Image credit: Searchlight Pictures)

Owen Wilson

When talking about Wes Anderson's collaborators, few names come to mind as quickly as Owen Wilson, who has appeared in a number of the director’s films throughout his career. But on top of appearing in seven of Anderson’s movies, Wilson also helped write three of them: Bottlerocket, Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums.

(Image credit: Walt Disney Studios)

Jason Segel

When it comes to the movie sphere, Jason Segel is probably best known for his portrayal of Peter Bretter in the 2008 comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall, but some might not know he also wrote it. After that, Segel penned three additional feature films: The Muppets, The Five-Year Engagement and Sex Tape.

(Image credit: BBC/HBO)

Ricky Gervais

On top of creating and starring on TV shows like the original version of The Office, Episodes and Extras, Ricky Gervais has also written some popular movies throughout his career. The British actor and comedian has crafted The Invention of Lying, Special Correspondents, Cemetery Junction and David Brent: Life on the Road.

(Image credit: United Artists)

Woody Allen

Throughout his career, which goes back the mid 1950s, Woody Allen has written, directed, and starred in dozens of movies, many of which are incredibly well-received. Over the years, Allen has won four Academy Awards, three of which were for Best Original Screenplay – Annie Hall, Hannah and Her Sisters, and Midnight in Paris – on top of all kinds of other accolades. However, Allen has only appeared in four of his own movies the past 20 years.

(Image credit: Buena Vista)

John Cusack

Not only did he star in some of the most iconic comedies of the 1980s, some all-time great ‘90s movies, and experience a great deal of success, John Cusack has written a handful of films throughout his career. This short list also happens to include some of his Cusack's best movies like High Fidelity and Grosse Pointe Blank. His other writing credits include War, Inc. and We Are Not Animals.

(Image credit: Apple)

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is perhaps best known for her roles on NBC comedy hits The Office and Parks and Recreation, but the actress has also written a few screenplays throughout her career. This includes Celeste and Jesse Forever, the 2018 documentary, Quincy, which is about her dad -- music legend Quicy Jones. She also has a story credit for Toy Story 4 and wrote “Nosedive,” one of the best Black Mirror episodes.

(Image credit: HBO)

Tom McCarthy

Tom McCarthy is best known for writing and directing Spotlight, the riveting journalism movie that won Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay at the 88th Academy Awards. But while he was in the process of becoming an award-winning filmmaker, McCarthy put together a decent acting resume that included a memorable turn on The Wire (during the final season), Meet the Parents, Good Night, and Good Luck, Syriana and Michael Clayton.

Each of these nearly three-dozen actors has quite the resume, both in terms of on-screen performances and written work, making them more than deserving of any and all praise.

Easy SNL Halloween Costumes And How To Buy Them

Riley Utley — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 04:22:04 +0000

Halloween can be an overwhelming task. Trying to put costumes together either brings people immense joy or absolute dread. If you are like me and live in the dread camp, I have a solution for you. The classic comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live has nearly 50 years of hilarious characters that make for great Halloween costumes, and lots of them are super easy to put together.

With a ton of SNL’s popular sketches that get millions of views, there are plenty of costume ideas that are recognizable, funny and easy. I’ve put together five unique and easy options for you.

(Image credit: NBC)

The Yeet Skirt Guys

Timothée Chalamet may have left fans swooning with his impersonation of Harry Styles, but the sketch of his that I love, and that will inspire a great costume, is the Yeet Skirt guys. This costume was popular last year, and I feel like will be a great one for years to come. Chalamet and Pete Davidson play two rappers, who are not good at their jobs and their main lyric is, you guessed it, “Yeet” and “Skirt.”

Even though Pete Davidson left SNL last season, this sketch should live on forever as a staple Halloween costume. All you need is a sweat suit, some accessories and your rapping skills.

Men's Sports Tracksuits Clothes Outfits Set, Long Sleeve Pullover Hoodies Sweatshirt+Sweatpants 2 Pcs Fall Winter Sweatsuits for $33.99 at Amazon View Deal

Gold Chain for Men with Dollar Sign Pendant Necklace for $14.98 on Amazon.View Deal

Hanes Men's X-Temp T-Shirt 2 Pack for $11 on Amazon.View Deal

Southpole Men's Basic Active Fleece Jogger Pants-Regular and Big & Tall Sizes for $14.95 on Amazon.View Deal

If you really want to go above and beyond:

Temporary Tattoos for $8.99 on Amazon
Two colored black and silver glasses for $12.99 on Amazon

(Image credit: The Lonely Island)

The Lonely Island

Another super easy, music-related SNL costume is to be the dudes of The Lonely Island. By following this simple guide, you can dress like The Lonely Island in their best videos like “I’m On A Boat” or “YOLO.” Honestly, the most important part of pulling off this fit is knowing the lyrics to your favorite Lonely Island songs.

Levi's Men's Trucker Jacket for $53.70 on Amazon View Deal

Gildan Women's Heavy Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt, 2-Pack for $12.47 on Amazon.View Deal

WebDeals Retro - Classic 80s Style Sunglasses Vintage Rectangle for $6.99 on Amazon.View Deal

(Image credit: NBC)

The Girl You Wish You Hadn't Started A Conversation With At A Party

Put on a pink party dress and your best Valley Girl accent, and you’ll be this iconic Cecily Strong character. Every so often she would show up on Weekend Update to talk with (more like call out) Seth Meyers. The trick, though, is to do the accent, but don’t actually be the girl people wish they hadn’t started a conversation with at the party.

Rooscier Women's Ruched V Neck Off Shoulder Bodycon Sexy Party Club Midi Dress for $36.99 on Amazon.View Deal

Nodykka Clutch Purses For Women Evening Bags Sparkling Shoulder Envelope Party Cross Body Handbags on Amazon for $14.99. View Deal

Bonus points if you also grab:

Sparkly iPhone case for $16.99 on Amazon
Origami bird (that's Spanish for goose)

(Image credit: NBC)

Target Lady

Enthusiasm and a red vest is really all you need to pull off Kristen Wiig’s Target Lady. Her character would excitedly check out customers at Target in the 2010s, and it’s hilarious. While you don’t need a bowl cut, it would for sure help sell the look. However, I think as long as you have the vest and the hand gestures, you’ll be good to go.

TopTie Adult Volunteer Activity Vest Supermarket Uniform Vests Clerk Workwear for $7.99 on Amazon.View Deal

Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Long-Sleeve Linen Shirt for $24 on Amazon.View Deal

(Image credit: NBC)

Vance From What's Up With That

This one might be a bit of a deeper cut, but for those who get it, it’s hilarious. Vance is the guy in the background of the “What’s Up With That” sketches. Jason Sudeikis, now of Ted Lasso fame, plays the background dancer, and he’s hysterical. Bust out the tracksuit and the moves, and you’ll be ready to rock a Halloween party with this easy costume.

Don't be like everyone and be Ted Lasso; be Vance instead!

Adidas Originals Men's Adicolor Classics Beckenbauer Track Jacket for $64.99 on Amazon.View Deal

Adidas Originals Men's Adicolor Classics Beckenbauer Track Pants for $50.79 on Amazon. View Deal

Gold Chain Necklace, 22 Inch Golden Ultra Luxury Looking Feeling Real Solid 14K Gold plated Curb Fake Neck Chain for Party Dancing for $9.98 on Amazon.View Deal

(Image credit: NBC)

Mom Jeans

While mom jeans have come back into style, this sketch shows the jeans off in a funny way and makes for a great costume. So grab a pair of mom jeans, hike them up as far as you can and do the little dance that Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler do in the early 2000s sketch.

American Apparel Women's High-Waist Jean for $70 on Amazon.View Deal

Port Authority L500 Ladies Silk Touch Polo on Amazon for $15.89. View Deal

You'll really be pulling off the mom look if you add:

A braided belt on Amazon for $18.99
Basic headband for $11.99 on Amazon

Season 48 of SNL has begun with new hosts and musical guests, and it will stay a staple on the 2022 TV schedule through this season of TV. If you are looking for a culturally relevant, funny and easy Halloween costume, look no further than SNL.

Kristen Wiig's New Streaming Show Somehow Cast A Bigger TV Queen Than Allison Janney

Megan Behnke — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 23:41:33 +0000

Earlier this year, Kristen Wiig was announced to be teaming up with Laura Dern for a new Apple TV+ series called Ms. American Pie. The cast is gradually growing as, just last month, it was announced that Mom vet Allison Janney has joined the cast. That's an impressive addition but, if that wasn't big enough, the show has cast yet another TV queen (one that's even bigger than Janney): Carol Burnett.

The comedian will take on the role of Norma in Ms. American Pie. The character is the grande dame of high society in Palm Beach, Norma, according to THR. Additionally, the socialite is said to be holding on to a few secrets, which will no doubt be revealed as the show progresses.

The series marks the beloved star's first live-action TV role since 2019, during which she appeared in an episode of the Mad About You revival. This will also be the first time that she's served in a regular cast member on a TV series since she led The Carol Burnett Show. To say that it'll be great to have the legend back on the small screen, and with a star-studded cast at that, would be an understatement.

In addition to Carol Burnett, Kristen Wiig, Laura Dern and Allison Janney will be joined by Leslie Bibb, Josh Lucas, and Ricky Martin. It goes without saying that the streaming service is sparing no expense when it comes to acquiring talent for the production. With a group like this thus far, I'm wondering who might be tapped to join next.

Based on the novel Mr. & Mrs. American Pie by Juliet McDaniel, the 1970s-set Ms. American Pie will center on Kristen Wiig's Maxine Simmons, a woman who attempts to obtain a seat in Palm Beach's exclusive upper society. As you'd expect, the road to getting there won't be all that easy. With Carol Burnett's Norma part of that high society life, viewers can likely expect plenty of hijinks to occur between the two. And that could lead to some seriously juicy scenes for the two comedic titans.

The 89-year-old star adds a level of credibility to anything she joins, and her reputation truly proceeds her. In recent years, she's been honored on numerous occasions and has given heartfelt and funny speeches for each award she's earned. The comedy legend has definitely been around and, surely, the cast and crew, including fellow TV staple Allison Janney, know just how lucky they are to have her.

As of this writing, an official release date has not been announced for Ms. American Pie. But while you wait for further updates on the production, you'll want to make sure that you have an Apple TV+ subscription so you can watch Carol Burnett's long-awaited return to television. And stay in the know when it comes to other shows by keeping an eye on CinemaBlend's 2022 TV schedule!

The Martian: What The Cast Of The Academy Award Nominated Movie Is Doing Now

Alexandra Ramos — Mon, 30 May 2022 13:04:03 +0000

When it comes to some of the biggest films of the last decade, one that always pops up in my mind is The Martian. The Academy Award nominated movie told the story of a lone astronaut who had to find a way to survive on Mars after mistakenly being left for dead by his team, and told a tale of perseverance and strength.

But with a film that was so well-received and with many stars headlining it, one might be wondering where the cast of the feature adaptation of Andy Weir's popular novel might be today. Well look no further, as this is what The Martian cast has been up to, and what they have going on in the next couple of years.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Matt Damon (Mark Watney)

First up on this list is Matt Damon, the star of The Martian, who plays Mark Watney. From his Academy Award-nominated role, Damon has gone on to star in several movies that you might recognize. He had a funny cameo role in Thor: Ragnorok, a role he's expected to reprise in the upcoming 2022 movie release, Thor: Love and Thunder.

Besides that, he’s also had starring roles in films such as The Great Wall, Stillwater, and Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel. And he reprised his famous role as the titular character in Jason Bourne. Besides his upcoming appearance in Love and Thunder, Damon is also going to be appearing in the new Christopher Nolan film, Oppenheimer.

(Image credit: Disney / Fox)

Jessica Chastain (Commander Melissa Lewis)

Next up, we have another big-time star, Jessica Chastain. Since her role as Commander Melissa Lewis in The Martian, Chastain has appeared in a number of movies and been a part of television as well.

In terms of films, she was in The Zookeeper’s Wife, It: Chapter Two, a part of The 355 cast, won an Academy Award for The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and more. She was also in the miniseries, Scenes From a Marriage, and in the TV series, George and Tammy.

Coming up, she is going to be in several films, including The Good Nurse, Memory, The Division and Mother’s Instinct, so keep an eye out for this talented actress.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Kristen Wiig (Annie Montrose)

Kristen Wiig portrayed Annie Montrose in The Martian. Known for her hilarious yet moving comedic roles Kristen Wiig has done plenty of movies since the film. She was in the 2016 version of Ghostbusters, closed off the How To Train Your Dragon trilogy, was one of the villains in Wonder Woman 1984, was in the comedic hit, Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar and more.

She’s also appeared in TV shows as well, including a recurring voice role in the adult animated series, Big Mouth, voiced Jenny Hart in Bless the Harts, and was in MacGruber. Coming up, she’s going to continue her role in the Despicable Me franchise in the upcoming Despicable Me 4, and she'll also be appearing in Mrs. American Pie on Apple TV+.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Jeff Daniels (Theodore “Teddy” Sanders)

Now we have Jeff Daniels, who played Teddy Sanders in The Martian. Daniels has been in many TV shows since his appearance on The Martian. He did have a big role in the film Allegiant, but TV is where he really shined in recent years.

Daniels had a part in the miniseries, Godless, The Looming Tower miniseries, and recently starred in the Showtime series American Rust. Coming up, he’s going to be appearing in a new Netflix limited series called A Man In Full.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Michael Pena (Major Rick Martinez)

Michael Pena played Major Rick Martinez in The Martian, and has been quite active in his career. He had a voice role in The Lego Ninjago Movie, had a fun part in Ant-Man as well as its sequel, was in the latest rebooted version of A Wrinkle in Time, had a big role in Dora and the Lost City of Gold, and most recently was a part of the Moonfall cast.

He also had a huge role as Kiki Camarena in the TV series, Narcos: Mexico. Next up, he will be in the upcoming film, Secret Headquarters, as well as reprise his role as Luis in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Sean Bean (Mitch Henderson)

Sean Bean played Mitch Henderson in The Martian. Bean has been very active in television, and has appeared in many shows. He appeared in Legends, Wasted, Broken, The Frankenstein Chronicles, The Oath, Medici, Curfew, World on Fire, Time, and most recently, Snowpiercer, all in main or recurring roles. Talk about a big-time actor.

He’s also appeared in films like The Young Messiah or Dark River, but television is where Bean really shined. Coming up soon, he’s going to be in another new BBC series called Marriage, as well as a new movie role in Knights of the Zodiac.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Kate Mara (Beth Johanssen)

Kate Mara played Beth Johansson in The Martian, and has grown her career even more since then. In terms of movies, she’s appeared in such hits like Captive, Morgan, The Senator, Ghostwriter and more, but television is also where she’s been able to show her talents.

She had a voice role in Moonbeam City, played Zoe Barnes in the House of Cards cast, portrayed Patty Bowes in the Ryan Murphy drama, Pose, and starred in the miniseries, A Teacher. Soon, she’s going to be in a new TV miniseries for FX called Class of ‘09.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Sebastian Stan (Dr. Chris Beck)

Sebastian Stan has only continued to grow in popularity since his role as Dr. Chris Beck in The Martian, appearing in many TV shows and movies. One of his biggest roles is playing Bucky Barnes, otherwise known as The Winter Soldier, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a role that he reprised for The Falcon and the Winter Soldier cast.

Other than the MCU, Stan has been active in both movies and television. Some of his biggest roles were I, Tonya, where he received critical praise for his performance, Destroyer, The Devil All The Time, Monday, The 355, the Hulu original movie, Fresh and more. He’s also dived back into TV for a bit to play Tommy Lee as part of the Pam & Tommy cast on Hulu. Coming up, he's set to appear in the film Sharper. And in 2020 he was listed among the stars of the film The Brutalist, though we haven't seen updates on that project since.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Aksel Hennie (Dr. Alex Vogel)

Next up, we have Aksel Hennie, who played Dr. Alex Vogul in The Martian. He’s appeared in films such as The Congo Murders, The Cloverfield Paradox, The Doorman, The Middle Man and more. He’s also had roles in TV shows such as White Wall and Nobel.

In the next couple of years, he will be in a new film called Immortal. According to Deadline, the film began production in September 2021.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Mackenzie Davis (Mindy Park)

Mackenzie Davis played Mindy Park in The Martian, and she’s appeared in films such as Blade Runner 2049, Freaks of Nature, Tully, Terminator: Dark Fate, the 2020 Christmas film, Happiest Season and more. She’s also had roles in TV shows like Halt and Catch Fire, as well as the miniseries Station Eleven. She even played Yorkie in the famous Black Mirror episode, “San Junipero."

In 2020, Variety included her among the cast of an upcoming film called Alpha Gang.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Benedict Wong (Bruce Ng)

Benedict Wong's star has continued to rise over the last several years since The Martian released and he played Bruce Ng. His biggest role thus far has been playing Wong in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, most recently as part of the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness cast, but Wong has done plenty of other TV shows and movies too.

Some of his highlights include a big role in the film Nine Days, a role in the Raya and the Last Dragon cast, a starring role in the TV series, Deadly Class, a voice role in The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, and more alongside his many appearances in Marvel. Coming up, he’s going to be in the new Disney+ Marvel show, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, and in a Netflix TV series called The Three-Body Problem.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Donald Glover (Rich Purnell)

Donald Glover played Rich Purnell in The Martian. Besides his accomplished music career as Childish Gambino, Donald Glover has appeared in many movies, including Solo: A Star Wars Story, Guava Island, The Lion King, and more.

He’s also been the creator and star of his own FX series, Atlanta, which as of writing this, just wrapped up its third season. Soon, he’s going to be starring in a TV series called Mr. & Mrs. Smith based on the movie of the same name.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Chen Shu (Zhu Tao)

Chen Shu portrayed Zhu Tao in The Martian, and since then has appeared in a variety of TV shows and movies. These include, but aren’t limited, to the movie Fell in Love Like a Star, the miniseries A Love for Separation, the TV series, Peace Hotel, the TV series Behind the Scenes, the film Cloud Mountain and more.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

Eddy Ko (Guo Ming)

Eddy Ko played Guo Ming in The Martian, and has appeared in a couple of films, including Beyond Redemption, The God of Wealth, and The Thousand Faces of Dunjia.

(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)

Chiwetel Ejiofor (Vincent Kapoor)

Last but not least, we have Chiwetel Ejiofor, who has also continued to make a name for himself since his role as Vincent Kapoor in The Martian. Since the film, he appeared in Triple 9, Mary Magdalene, The Lion King, The Old Guard, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, and portrayed Baron Mordo in both Doctor Strange and its sequel.

He also had a role in the TV series, The Man Who Fell to Earth. Among his upcoming projects are The Pod Generation, The Old Guard 2, and Rob Peace (the latter which he's expected to direct, per a report from Variety in 2020.)

With so many stars, it’s hard to sometimes keep track of all the amazing stuff that they’re doing, but it's clear everyone's been busy with interesting movies and TV shows since the sci-fi film released in 2015.

Mom Vet Allison Janney Just Landed Her First Big TV Role After CBS Sitcom

Adreon Patterson — Wed, 04 May 2022 19:29:58 +0000

The cancellation of long-running comedy Mom surprised a number of people, including series star Allison Janney. When Janney reacted to CBS' decision, she also expressed her gratitude, though she never explicitly revealed why the network pulled the plug. Despite this, the beloved actress has moved on to other movie and TV gigs. Now, a year after her CBS sitcom ended its run, the Emmy and Oscar winner has landed her first big TV role.

The Mom vet will star in the upcoming Apple TV+ comedy Mrs. American Pie, according to TVLine, and she'll be teaming up with some major talent in the process. The show will see her join Laura Dern and Kristen Wiig, who were confirmed to be starring in the project earlier this year. The upcoming series will focus on South Florida’s wealthy elites, and Janney will reportedly play Palm Beach high-society member Evelyn. Needless to say, this character very far removed from Bonnie Plunkett.

The show is based on Juliet McDaniel’s best-selling novel Mr. and Mrs. American Pie. Set in the early 1970s, the Apple TV+ comedy will focus on Kristen Wiig's Maxine Simmons, as she attempts to climb the social ladder to obtain a seat in Palm Beach’s closed-off upper society. Based on the description alone, this project seems set to tell a story of the haves and the have nots. The creators have the tricky job of balancing humor and social commentary but, if they can nail it, this could be something special.

Details regarding Laura Dern's exact role are still being kept under wraps. The Jurassic World: Dominion actress developed the TV adaptation alongside her producing partner, Jayme Lemons, and both will serve as executive producers alongside Dead to Me creator Abe Sylvia. Sylvia will also write the comedy and serve as the showrunner. Tate Taylor, John Norris, and Katie O’Connell Marsh round out the list of executive producers for the streaming series.

With this new project, Allison Janney adds to her already-full plate. On the film side, she's been incredibly busy with upcoming movies that are set to release this year, like The People We Hate at the Wedding (another adaptation of a novel). She's also set to star in the sci-fi film True Love, which is currently in production.

The character of Bonnie Plunkett allowed Allison Janney to shed The West Wing’s C.J. Gregg, and there's a chance that this new role of Evelyn will allow the star to branch off from her stint as the lovable mother and former addict. Still, if the star's sweet fan message, which she sent out after the Mom series finale, is any indication, she'll continue to hold the character close even as she embarks on this new journey in Mrs. American Pie.

It remains to be seen as to when the comedy series will be available to stream. In the meantime, you can check out all the great shows on Apple TV that are currently available. You can also learn about the other TV shows that are coming by looking over CinemaBlend's 2022 TV schedule.

The Best Kristen Wiig Movies, Ranked

Alexandra Ramos — Tue, 08 Mar 2022 14:04:12 +0000

You want to know someone that I’ve come to really enjoy over the last decade? Kristin Wiig. From her time on Saturday Night Live to some of her latest movie releases, she’s always been an actress that has steadily made me laugh no matter what role she’s in.

But even with everything she’s done, there are surely some roles that stand out amongst the rest. So if you’re looking for the ultimate ranking of Kristen Wiig’s best movies, here are my personal picks.

(Image credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures)

10. Whip It (2009)

Whip It is a coming of age sports comedy starring a variety of famous faces like Elliot Page, Drew Barrymore and others. It might be hard to believe that Kristen Wiig was also a part of this film, but she played Maggie, a rollerblader as part of a roller derby team and forms a close bond with Bliss, a young teenager who lies about her age to join the team.

The reason why I put Wiig’s performance on here versus some of her others is that I really like her role as almost the caregiver. Her scenes are few and far between within the film, but they stand out amongst the rest. I especially love the moments where Bliss (played by Elliot Page) goes to live with her for some time and they have a genuine conversation about the aspects of parenting.

Wiig’s acting in this film was genuinely really good and showed her skills as a dramatic actor mixed in with comedy. The only reason why it’s so low is because with so many stars, she didn’t get as much screen time as she should have.

(Image credit: Miramax Films)

9. Adventureland (2009)

As someone who grew up only twenty minutes away from the actual park this movie was based on, I’m a teensy bit biased, but I love Kristen Wiig in Adventureland. This coming of age flick is all about young adults working at the park over the summer, but boy does she and her regular on-screen co-star, Bill Hader, steal the show.

Seriously, Adventureland is one of Bill Hader’s best roles, but it’s also one of Wiig’s best roles too. Their chemistry is to die for and they make the perfect pair in running this theme park with an iron grip and yet at the same time creating hysterical moments that stick with you for hours. I genuinely loved the heck out of his movie and trust me, if you’re a fan of these two, you’ll live this film too.

However, they do have another spot on this list together, so keep an eye out for that.

(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)

8. Mother! (2017)

It might be strange for me to put a Darren Aronofsky psychological horror film down here for Kristin Wiig, but hear me out - she’s actually terrifying in Mother!

She’s barely in the film, which is why it's down here so low, but her few interactions with Jennifer Lawrence’s character chill me. Her line delivery is such a stark contrast from her usually repertoire of movies that it makes me feel really weird. You’d never picture Wiig to be in a situation where they are literally destroying the home of someone but here we are.

Wiig definitely has the potential to be great in more psychological horrors, and I think that Mother! proves that. It’s a shame she didn’t get as much screen time as she deserved.

(Image credit: Dreamworks)

7. How To Train Your Dragon Series (2010-2019)

I’m not the only one who ugly cried when the How To Train Your Dragon series ended, right? This series was such a shining light in the world of animation and the score was phenomenal as well. The voice cast was also stellar, but one that always stood out to me was Wiig’s voice as Ruffnut.

While Wiig is no stranger to lending her voice to projects, I personally love her in How To Train Your Dragon, considering she was in all three movies. Her character was not smart but damn, was she a warrior and a capable dragon fighter, and Wiig’s voice was perfect for that. She delivered those lines exactly as they should be and made Ruffnut a character to remember.

It also helps that she was hilarious whenever she would try and get with Eret. You have to love her dedication.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

6. The Martian (2015)

The Martian was a fantastic film with another stellar cast, most of which you all know about, from Matt Damon to Donald Glover to Sebastian Stan, but Kristen Wiig was also a huge part of this film and played the NASA media relations director.

Again, this film only continues to prove my point that Wiig should be in more dramatic roles. While you can still clearly tell that she delivers her lines with a bit of that comedic flair, she really shined in this role, showing the difficulties of being the head of something as big as the media for NASA.

The Martian was one of 2015's best films, and she, alongside its great cast, was a big reason why.

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

5. The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (2013)

This movie always makes me cry a little because I relate to Walter Mitty so much. He’s someone who just lives in his head and has all these fantasy worlds all painted out, but he’s still a normal human being with normal crushes, and he happens to have a crush on Kristen Wiig’s character, Cheryl.

This is such an underrated gem for Wiig, because she and Ben Stiller have such great chemistry. Not only is this one of Ben Stiller’s best roles, but Wiig is rocking it here too. Watching them feels like viewing a real relationship. It doesn't feel forced and the pacing is just right. They have their own problems that they work through to find their happy ending.

I just love them together in this, from the moment their scenes start.

(Image credit: Roadside Attractions/Stage 6 Films)

4. The Skeleton Twins (2014)

While Adventureland was the first time we got to see the chemistry between Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, The Skeleton Twins capitalize on that. The film stars the two as twin siblings who are both going through the worst times of their lives and have to rely on each other to get better somehow.

This was one of the first Kristen Wiig films that genuinely made me cry. As someone who grew up with an older brother and having that special sibling relationship, this movie paints it perfectly how sometimes it’s awesome and sometimes it’s not, and both Wiig and Hader act their butts off to show it - and it works out beautifully.

If I could, I’d erase my mind and watch this again for the first time just to experience their excellent chemistry, but I can’t do that. However, if you’re looking for a film where both Wiig and Hader are amazing, check this one out.

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

3. Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar (2021)

This movie is just the best.

This release not only made me laugh so much but remind me of how great of a comedic actress Kristen Wiig is.

Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is a comedy about lifelong friends leaving their hometown and going on a crazy adventure, running into ridiculous situations that will surely make you snicker. But what really makes this film so great is the comedic timing of both Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, who both wrote the film.

They’re just so funny. I wish this film had been released into theaters instead of going to streaming because it deserved to be a box office hit. While I do think that Wiig is great in more dramatic roles, these comedic ones have always been where she’s showing her prowess as an actress.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

2. Despicable Me Series (2013-2017)

How To Train Your Dragon is a fantastic series in and of itself, but I feel like there are so many characters that a lot of the fantastic voice actors can get overshadowed. In the Despicable Me series, Kristen Wiig doesn't get overshadowed at all voicing Lucy, the love-interest, and later wife, of Gru.

There’s just something about her voice that makes me smile every time, from how she speaks with the little girls to her action scenes where she kicks butt to her awkward yet cute dates with Gru in Despicable Me 2, she played the perfect badass woman in animated form and showed off how great she is as a voice actor.

(Image credit: Universal Pictures)

1. Bridesmaids (2011)

You knew this was coming from the beginning, don’t lie. Bridesmaids is the best Kristen Wiig movie, no doubt. While the Bridesmaids cast is iconic in every way, Wiig is the person who starred and made this movie so freaking funny.

Written by Wiig and Annie Mumolo (who also wrote Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar), this film has some of the funniest moments in a romantic comedy, from the breakout performance of Melissa McCarthy to Maya Rudolph’s wedding dress scene to Wiig’s drunk performance on the airplane, it just always makes you laugh.

But there’s something so compelling about Wiig’s character, Annie, that I relate to on a personal level. She’s someone who was given a crap hand in life and just wants to try and turn that around, but it’s up to her to make that change - in hilarious ways, of course, and still become a better person regardless. The whole entire story is so funny and Wiig only makes it funnier with her acting, leading this to be her best movie so far.

I’m sure that over time, this list will change and we’ll see Wiig in even more amazing roles, but for now, these are some of the best that you should definitely watch right now. I, for one, am going to rewatch Bridesmaids for the millionth time.

SNL's Kristen Wiig Is Teaming Up With Laura Dern For A New Streaming Series

Rachel Romean — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 18:15:48 +0000

Kristen Wiig is known for her comedic chops, while Laura Dern has cemented her status as an entertainment icon with award-winning turns in dramas like Marriage Story and Big Little Lies. The two celebrated actresses have never worked together before, but that’s all about to change. In a move that is sure to be recorded in the history books of Hollywood, the two stars are teaming up for a new streaming series on Apple TV +.

The streamer has announced that Saturday Night Live’s Kristin Wiig is set to star as Maxine in the new series Mrs. American Pie. Laura Dern will serve as executive producer and is also reportedly playing a major on-screen role. Based on the book Mr. & Mrs. American Pie by Juliet Daniels, the comedy will consist of 10 episodes, which will explore the high society drama of Palm Beach.

Described as a “story about gorgeously impossible people,” Mrs. American Pie will feature Maxine’s attempts to climb the social ladder during the 1970s. The original novel finds the divorcee participating in the Mrs. American Pie pageant, a competition to find the best wife and mother in America. The only problem? She doesn’t have a husband or children, meaning that she’ll have to get up to some hilarious hijinks to secure the crown.

Apple TV+ has not revealed whether or not the series will adhere to the novel, but it would be difficult to imagine a show about a pageant that wouldn’t benefit from the zany genius of Kristen Wiig. Her tenure on Saturday Night Live proved that she’s particularly adept at satirizing absurd situations, and her appearances as Mindy Grayson, Kathie Lee Gifford, and Penelope would feel right at home in a high society comedy.

As for Laura Dern, this project is definitely in the vicinity of her wheelhouse. She may be best known for her dramatic roles, but characters like Renata Klein on Big Little Lies have proved that she can be very, very funny. Even Marriage Story, which dealt with some pretty heavy content, had a few clever moments, thanks to Laura Dern’s quick wit. Given her history, we can probably expect her to play one of the socialites Kristen Wiig’s Maxine will try to impress. Either way, the combination of these legendary ladies on Mrs. American Pie is sure to be a highly anticipated addition to the streaming catalog.

Mrs. American Pie doesn’t have an official release date yet, but keep your eyes peeled, you'll know when you can watch with your Apple TV+ subscription. While you wait for the surefire hit, you can keep busy with these exciting TV premieres coming to a screen near you in 2022.

Will Forte And Kristen Wiig Both Returned To SNL And Of Course It Got Weird

Mack Rawden — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 14:38:53 +0000

Will Forte returned to host Saturday Night Live for the first time last night, and the former cast member used his monologue to hilariously complain about all of his former co-stars who were asked to return before him. That list includes Kristen Wiig, who has been invited back to host multiple times. She surprised the crowd with an appearance during Forte’s intro, and she stuck around during the show and appeared in multiple sketches with her longtime co-star. Not surprisingly, the sketches featuring the two got really weird.

The most talked about of those sketches obviously was MacGruber. The two spun off their absurd characters into both a movie and a series on Peacock; so, it was widely assumed at least Will Forte would bring back his old favorite when he hosted. He did and thankfully Kristen Wiig joined him, along with Ryan Phillippe. In the newest versions, MacGruber is now an anti-vaxxer who wants no part of wearing a mask and sports a fake vaccine card. You can watch the very on-brand for MacGruber madness below…

Like MacGruber, Will Forte always thrives when taking things as far as possible. He absolutely loves weirdness and loves pushing the joke as far as possible. He thrives off playing characters that are socially unaware and/ or just complete weirdos. That’s probably why Saturday Night Live had him playing the other dude in a married couple threesome last night. I mean look at how long he shakes the bed in this sketch. Just utter madness in the best way. But even amidst creepy weirdos and old timey movie characters, probably the weirdest place he went last night was alongside Kristen Wiig when they brought back out Clancy T Bachleratt and Jackie Snad.

If you’re asking yourself who the hell is that, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Forte and Wiig played the characters in a sketch alongside Seth Rogen all the way back in 2009, and at the time, it was way too weird for most people. The sketch followed two musicians who sing songs about Model Ts, toddlers, jars of beer and spaceships. That’s it. That’s what all their songs are about. The sketch generated a small cult following, but it never really broke out. And yet, hilariously, it returned last night to weird everyone out again. Check out its bizarre magic below…

The above sketch is a good example of why I love Saturday Night Live so much. Not every sketch is supposed to be as broadly accessible as possible. No doubt a high percentage of people who watched the above, thought that’s weird and then moved on. But for a small percentage of us who love really eccentric and irreverent comedy, something like that is an absolute gift that you’d ordinarily never get on network television.

SNL is typically all about what’s new and relevant. And that’s good. Casts need to change. Current events need to be talked about. It’s ultimately good that the show isn’t the same thing it was ten years ago or forty years ago, but still, I’m a big fan of bringing back an older cast member to host once or twice each season. It’s a good bridge to the past, and it’s a wonderful gift for those of us who have been watching SNL for decades.

The show will return next week with Willem Dafoe, who is the latest in a series of exciting SNL hosts this season.

MacGruber Cast: Where You've Seen The Stars Of Peacock's Action Comedy Series Before

Jason Wiese — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 12:04:00 +0000

Another MacGruber cast member with a powerful voice and an Oscar nomination (for What’s Love Got to Do with It) is Gen. Barrett Fasoose actor Laurence Fishburne. Like Sam Elliott, he has done his fair share of superhero movies (he played Perry White in the DCEU) and has played a cowboy (Cowboy Curtis on Pee-wee’s Playhouse) to great acclaim.

In addition to grounded, powerful dramas like Boyz n the Hood and various TV shows (he plays Pops on Black-ish, for instance), his most notable claim to fame is playing Morpheus in the original Matrix movies. While Yahya Abdul-Mateen II took over that role for The Matrix Resurrections, Fishburne will soon reunite with Keanu Reeves when he reprises the Bowery King in John Wick: Chapter 4.

(Image credit: FX)

Timothy V. Murray (Constantine Bach)

Reprising his role from the MacGruber movie as Constantine Bach is Timothy V. Murray, who typically appears in titles that the MacGruber series pokes fun at, like 24, Criminal Minds, Sons of Anarchy, or True Detective. He once played one of Ed Harris’ henchmen in 2007’s National Treasure: Book of Secrets before reuniting with the actor for the western Appaloosa in 2008, and then working with Disney again for its remake of The Lone Ranger in 2013. He, more recently, had recurring roles on the hit dramas Snowpiercer and S.W.A.T.

(Image credit: Peacock)

Joseph Lee Anderson (Major Harold Kernst)

As Major Harold Kernst, we have Joseph Lee Anderson, who is also known for a recurring role on S.W.A.T., among plenty of other crime procedurals. A good chunk of his career is historical dramas, such as American Soul (based on the life of Soul Train creator Don Cornelius), Showtime’s I’m Dying Up Here (on which he appeared as Muhammed Ali), and the Oscar nominated Harriet (in which he played Harriet Tubman’s brother, Robert Ross). However, his biggest claim to fame in the category of playing real-life people is his role as Dwayne Johnson’s father, Rocky, on the NBC series, Young Rock.

Previously, Sin City cast member and Oscar nominee Mickey Rourke was cast as Billy Zane's villainous character. As cool as it is to see the Titanic star play a bad guy again, I would have been very curious to see Rourke in such a role. We shall see how Zane and the rest of the MacGruber cast handle their characters when the series premieres on Peacock.

Stephen Merchant Shares Dream To Work With This A Boy Called Christmas Costar, And Honestly, This Needed To Happen Yesterday

Sarah El-Mahmoud — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 13:26:35 +0000

Among Netflix’s many original holiday offerings this year is A Boy Called Christmas, which tells the fantastical tale of Santa Claus in his youth. The epic streaming release features an impressive host of talent including Harry Potter’s Maggie Smith, The Hunger Games’ Toby Jones and The Shape of Water’s Sally Hawkins. It was surely a dream come true for its young lead Henry Lawfull to work with so many great talents, but for his sidekick mouse, played by Stephen Merchant, he missed out on what could have been an all-time great comedic duo.

Stephen Merchant is, of course, the co-creator of the original version of The Office and Extras, along with other comedic endeavors. In A Boy Called Christmas, he voices the role of Miika the Mouse, who a young Father Christmas has in his pocket for the entire adventure. When CinemaBlend spoke to Merchant about the role, he said the following about the unique experience:

I didn’t get to go on set, because they filmed on the snowy wastelands in Eastern Europe and other places and I wasn’t there for that. So, I only met some of the actors the other night during the U.K. premiere. In fact, Henry [Lawfull], who plays the young Nikolas, the central role, it was the first time I met him, even though I feel like I know him because I’ve been his best friend on screen for a year doing the voice. Unfortunately, I didn’t meet the other actors.

Because Stephen Merchant is one of the few animated characters in the film, he had a vastly different experience than the rest of the cast. As he said, he didn’t get to meet his co-stars, even though he’d worked with Henry Lawfull in particular closely from afar. Merchant said there is one cast mate from A Boy Called Christmas he’s especially dying to work with. In his words:

I would have loved to work with many of them, but obviously in particular I would have loved to work with Kristen Wiig, who as a comedy actor myself, she’s just a genius and just absolutely brilliant. So the idea of being able to do a scene with her, play around and improvise is still a dream of mine. Hopefully, one day that will happen. Sadly in this instance, I never got to meet her.

If you’re aware of Stephen Merchant’s comedic style and Kristen Wiig’s sensibilities, you know this is a comedic match made in heaven. If you put the two of them together, they would have us belly laughing until our chest hurt. To our surprise, he’s not only never worked with her, they haven’t even met. Ever? What!

(Image credit: Netflix)

In A Boy Called Christmas, Kristen Wiig plays Aunt Carlotta, another scene-stealing antagonist who serves as Nikolas’ temporary guardian early in the film. According to Pop Culture, the co-writer/director of the movie, Gil Kenan was a huge Saturday Night Live fan, along with just generally loving all of the actress’ work, and he reached out to her for the role, based on the character in Matt Haig’s book of the same name.

Kristen Wiig was apparently looking for a different kind of role when he approached her and the stars aligned. There’s some seriously inspired casting going on in A Boy Called Christmas, but wow, does a Stephen Merchant and Kristen Wiig collaboration still need to happen now that it’s been brought up.

What The Bridesmaids Cast Is Doing Now

Will Ashton — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:04:30 +0000

Adrienne Jones — Thu, 06 May 2021 17:35:12 +0000

I don't think any of us need to have actually been a part of the cast of Saturday Night Live to realize that it's probably a pretty heady experience if one gets the chance to become a featured player on the late night staple. Not only will you be surrounded by the famous guest hosts and musical acts on a weekly basis, but you'd suddenly find yourself working amongst people you've been watching on the show for years. Bowen Yang is currently only in his second SNL season as a performer (and third as a writer), but he recently recalled a surreal moment of bonding with former cast member Kristen Wiig on set.

Most fans of SNL would likely say that Bowen Yang is doing very well for himself on the sketch comedy series, and has made a name for himself with several funny characters. But, that doesn't mean that the new star is immune to getting a bit starstruck when he's faced with some of his idols from Saturday Night Live's past. For Yang, that's included Kristen Wiig, who returned to host the holiday episode this season, on December 19. As Yang told Entertainment Weekly, the experience was "weird," and noted:

That's the weird part of this job: having even very cursory interpersonal relationships with these people. The fact that Kristen Wiig is telling me that she also had bad weeks is crazy! There's this very strong, shared, core understanding of experience of working there, and she knew that I would relate to that. She didn't have to ask me, 'Are you having a good time?’

It's probably pretty easy for us to understand what Bowen Yang is feeling when he talks about being able to bond with Kristen Wiig over the grueling production schedule that SNL is known for. Many people would likely be awed if they had a chance to talk to the Oscar nominated comedian / actress / writer, but Yang was able to relate to Wiig as someone who'd been through a unique experience he's going through right now.

Plus, Yang said he spent much of his teens as an avid watcher of SNL, meaning that quite of bit of his early experiences with the show probably involved watching Wiig during her tenure on the series, which lasted from 2005 through 2012.

Many of the cast members on SNL wear multiple hats, both on the show and off as they try to expand their careers beyond the doors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. It's got to be a daunting task at times, especially with the immense pressure of being a relatively new member of the cast, so it had to be great for Bowen Yang to be able to talk to Kristen Wiig about it as someone who's been there, survived and thrived in the environment. As he said, Wiig didn't have to ask if he was having a good time, because she knows exactly what it's like to work there. And, his thoughts on their conversation were similar to what Kenan Thompson said about working with Eddie Murphy on SNL.

Bowen Yang and (at least some of) his SNL cohorts will be back with another new episode on Saturday, May 8, with controversial guest host Elon Musk, and musical guest Miley Cyrus. For more to watch in the coming weeks, check out our 2021 summer TV premiere schedule!

Kristen Wiig's Barb And Star Follow-Up Is A Cinderella Musical For Disney, With A Twist

Adam Holmes — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:28:53 +0000

The last half year has quite eventful for Saturday Night Live alum Kristen Wiig. First, we finally got to see her play The Cheetah in Wonder Woman 1984, and just a few months later, she starred alongside Annie Mumolo in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, which the women also wrote and produced. Now Wiig and Mumolo are teaming back up to make a Cinderella musical for Disney, only this project won’t focus on the young woman who caught attention with her glass footwear.

Instead, Kirsten Wiig and Annie Mumolo have been tapped by the Mouse House to write a movie about Cinderella’s evil stepsisters, who are known as Drizella and Anastasia Tremaine in 1950’s Cinderella and its live-action remake. Per Deadline, this will be a “fairy tale musical comedy” that re-imagines the classic Cinderella story through the perspective of the stepsisters. The story will span from their early childhood to when Cinderella marries Prince Charming and beyond, with Drizella and Anastasia struggling to “uphold their family’s legacy.”

To clarify, Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo are only penning the script for this musical centered on Cinderella’s stepsisters for now. It’s unclear at this stage of development if they’ll also appear in the movie, and even if they do, they wouldn’t play the stepsisters, as those roles are intended for younger actresses. In any case, this marks Wiig and Mumolo’s third time collaborating on a movie. Along with February’s Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, which earned a lot of positive critical reception, they also wrote the Golden Globe-nominated Bridesmaids, which starred Wiig and featured Mumolo in a cameo role.

As noted earlier, Disney’s take on the classic Cinderella story was remade back in 2015, which starred Lily James as the eponymous protagonist, Richard Madden as the Prince, Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother, Cate Blanchett as Lady Tremaine, and Sophie McShera and Holliday Grainger as Drizella and Anastasia, respectively. Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo’s musical, on the other hand, sounds similar to the Maleficent movies, which have explored the Sleeping Beauty mythology through Angelina Jolie iteration of the title witch. Other villain-focused projects Disney has coming up include Cruella and the Beauty and the Beast Disney+ prequel series following Gaston and LeFou.

Of course, delving into the lives of Cinderella’s stepsisters is just one of several projects Kristen Wiig has lined up. She’s next set to reprise of Vicki Gloria St. Elmo for Peacock’s MacGruber series, which follows over a decade after the MacGruber movie came out. She’s also continuing to voice Jenny Hart on the Fox animated series Bless the Harts, and you can see her later this year starring alongside Jim Broadbent and Sally Hawkins in Netflix’s A Boy Called Christmas. As for Annie Mumolo, she’s taking part in the comedy Queenpins, which stars Kristen Bell, Kirby Howell-Baptiste and Vince Vaughn.

While we wait for more news about Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo’s stepsisters musical for Disney, learn what flicks are primed to play in theaters later this year with our upcoming 2021 movies schedule.

Up next: Disney Is Missing A Huge Opportunity With Its Live-Action Remakes

Turns Out Rebel Wilson Nearly Played A Different Role In Bridesmaids

Sarah El-Mahmoud — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 13:09:16 +0000

This month marks the 10-year anniversary of Bridesmaids, so why don’t we reminisce for a moment? Kristen Wiig’s Oscar-nominated comedy is still just as hilarious as it was when it was released thanks to its ensemble cast of a wedding party, including Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy, Ellie Kemper, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Rose Byrne. And how can we forget one memorable secret weapon the movie had: Rebel Wilson, who nearly played a very different role.

The Aussie actress nabbed the role a year before her major breakout in 2012’s Pitch Perfect as “Fat Amy.” She played one of two odd roommates to Kristen Wiig’s Annie. But recently she divulged the role she nearly ended up playing. In her words:

Weirdly, so my character wasn’t supposed to exist in the movie, I’d auditioned for Melissa McCarthy’s character and was like the second choice for that role. And I guess they liked my audition that they added me to the film essentially. So there was never supposed to be two roommates, only one.

Rebel Wilson shared the roommate role with Matt Lucas, as they played Kristen Wiig’s annoying sibling roommates, who were a bit too close for comfort. Wilson adds a lot of hilarious moments in the movie, but she originally had her eye on one of the bridesmaids. She auditioned to play Melissa McCarthy’s puppy loving Megan. She would have been great for that role too but, obviously, McCarthy absolutely killed it. Thankfully, she was still able to get a part in Bridesmaids, though. She continued with SiriusXM:

I just kind of added myself, in a way, to the scenes. But Paul [Feig] I just remember was so, and Kristen [Wiig] as well, she was like the biggest comedy star in America at that point. But she literally said, ‘Whatever you want to do just go for it. I don’t care. Like if you think it’s funny and want to try it, just go for it.’ And I think that kind of nice collaborative energy, which she must have done to everybody on the set, from her and from Paul as a director, they just got the most hilarious, spontaneous things. It was pretty much just all improvised all of that stuff.

According to the 41-year-old actress, a lot of what she ended up doing on set was some fun improvisation, because of course! Half of the cast of Bridesmaids were Saturday Night Live cast members, so it’s not super surprising. When it came to Rebel Wilson though, her role was not initially in the script, so it was a lot more off the cuff. Y’all remember that scene where she gets the back tattoo and pours frozen peas on her back? Classic.

Her small role in the movie led to some more work for the actress, such as two more Pitch Perfect films, rom-coms including How To Be Single and Isn’t it Romantic. Rebel Wilson is currently hosting a dog grooming competition show called Pooch Perfect and recently committed to a 60 pound weight-loss transformation in 2020.

Kristen Wiig and her Bridesmaids writing partner Annie Mumolo collaborated for a hilarious comedy Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar, which came out earlier this year. The writing duo or director Paul Feig aren’t exactly keen on a sequel, considering they made something so well-loved the first time. You can stream Bridesmaids on PeacockTV.

Up next: The Key Ingredient Bridesmaids 2 Would Need To Happen

Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar: 10 Funniest Moments In The Kristen Wiig Comedy

Philip Sledge — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 17:00:00 +0000

This will probably come as a surprise to absolutely no one, but Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo’s Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is one of the funniest movies since the pair released Bridesmaids in 2011. From the first scene to the assortment of post-credits scenes and every little moment in between (hot dog soup, anyone), the movie is a ridiculous, and at times absurd romp of a good time. And while the entire movie is a side-splitter we’ll all be gushing over for years to come, this instant cult classic has some scenes, especially anything with Jamie Dornan’s Edgar Paget, that are honestly some of the greatest comedic moments in years.

Now that you’ve seen already watched Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (please stop and check out how to stream it if you haven’t already because there are nearly as many spoilers as laughs), check out the 10 funniest moments in the 2021 comedy.

Yoyo Delivering Papers And Singing His Heart Out On The Bike

As soon as Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar opens with Yoyo (Reyn Doi) delivering papers and singing his heart out to Barbra Streisand’s “Guilty” I knew we were going to be in for one hell of a ride. The classic duet from “Babs” and Barry Gibb is perfect for freewheeling vibe of the movie’s opener, especially as Yoyo continues to get more and more into the feeling of the song. The juxtaposition of the soothing melody of the song with the destruction caused by the young assassin’s rigged newspaper (and the secret entrance to Sharon Gordon’s lair) is top notch.

The Introduction Of Barb And Star At Jennifer Convertibles

Everything about the introduction of Barb (Annie Mumolo) and Star (Kristen Wiig) at the Jennifer Convertibles furniture store is amazing, absolutely amazing. From the fake-out where you’re led to believe they are at home to them talking a couple out of buying their favorite couch to the pair realizing they are out of a job makes for one of the greatest stretches in a comedy in recent years. The chemistry between the pair sets up the rest of the movie and makes for a hilarious interaction with their boss when they can’t remember who’s actually working is the icing on the cake.

The Entire Talking Club Scene, Especially That Hot Dog Soup

Everything about the Talking Club scene in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar just works. The simple, yet preposterous concept of a club where a group of middle-aged women get together and talk about random topics, drink wine, and eat hot dog soup all while trying to stay in the good graces of the tyrannical Debbie (Vanessa Bayer) is absurdly hilarious. Like a lot of the interactions throughout the movie, this scene feels like improv or a great Saturday Night Live sketch and ends in spectacular fashion: Barb and Star lying about their jobs and getting the boot.

Barb And Star Describing Trish On The Plane And In The Airport

Just when you thought Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar couldn’t get any better you’re treated to the amazing “Trish” scene as the pair fly to Florida. A conversation like this among any other duo would would surely result in a back-and-forth that would ultimately run its course after a few minutes. But no, Barb and Star formulate this entire backstory and moving plot for their made-up character with a name they both love. But wait, there’s more… Even after they land and get off the plane, the Trish talk continues, this time with waterworks from the two stars as they agree on the tragic fate of their beloved Trish. But this isn’t the end of Trish…

The Palm Vista Hotel Song And Dance Number

The introduction of the Palm Vista Hotel and its various amenities in the form of a full-scale Broadway song and dance number is as hilarious as it is impressive. Not only is this charming and over-the-top spectacle of a good time the perfect way to show off what Barb and Star can expect (even if they’re at the wrong place), it also serves another way to get Edgar Paget (Jamie Dornan) on screen saying “Official Couple” (more on that later).

Every Time Richard Cheese Appears On Screen

Since we’re already talking about the musical numbers in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, now’s the perfect time to point out the greatness of Richard Cheese (Mark Jonathan Davis) and his various numbers featured throughout the movie. At first, they sound like little lounge songs, but when you listen to the lyrics, you’re welcomed into the mad world of a depraved lounge singer going on about his love of “boobies” or his friends from high school who recently passed away. Much like the rest of the movie, these songs are bonkers, absurd, but oddly fitting considering the tone of the film.

Edgar Randomly Breaking Into Song

The song “Edgar’s Prayer” is without a doubt one of the most ridiculous scenes in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar and for multiple reasons. First, it’s performed by a character who was set there to unleash killer mosquitos so that his crush can get revenge. Secondly, the music and sound of Jamie Dornan’s voice make you think this is a sincere and straight-forward song but the lyrics, man, the lyrics are out of this world. From comparing himself to a ballerina digging a hole in the sand to a palm tree who decided to grow up to be a palm tree, there’s just so much going on here, and I’m all for it.

Anytime Edgar Says “Official Couple”

I know it sounds like this is turning into an extended breakdown of Edgar’s character, but I promise you, this is the last part about the hitman with a heart of gold. One part of his character that kept killing me throughout the movie was the way he would say “official couple” whenever talking to or about Kristen Wiig's bleached character Sharon Gordon (who was busy stringing him along). There’s just something that’s hilarious about a hitman having the same motivations and hopeful optimism of a high school freshman. And Jamie Dornan’s innate ability to play off absurdity with a straight face doesn’t hurt either.

Morgan Freemond, The Crab, Not Morgan Freeman

Just when you thought Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar couldn’t get any wackier, Star has a conversation with a talking crab named Morgan Freemond, not to be confused with Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman. The little crab even sounds like the Shawshank Redemption star, soothing voice and all. In a movie of bits coming out of left field, this is one of the most random and well-executed.

The Trish Payoff At The End Of The Movie

As soon as Barb and Star start talking about Trish, I knew there was going to be a payoff at some point in the movie, but never in my years did I expect it to pay off like that. Reba McEntire as the embodiment of the two friends’ favorite name, character, and spiritual entity was the greatest reveal since the country singer turned up as “the best driver there is” A.J. Ferguson in The Little Rascals. It was like a glamorous, southern-fried version of Moana in those final moments, and I can’t get enough.

These are just a few of the insanely funny moments Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Outside of these, there is Andy Garcia’s cameo as Tommy Bahama, Damon Wayans Jr.’s oversharing Darlie Bunkle, and all of those great interactions between Barb and Star. After going over all of these, I think I’ll have to rent the movie again…

Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Cast: Where You've Seen Them Before

Will Ashton — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 18:00:00 +0000

Nearly 10 years after their Oscar-nominated smash-hit comedy Bridesmaids made its way into theaters worldwide, Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo are back for their second screenwriting collaboration with the wacky, surrealistic new comedy, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, which also stars Mumolo and Wiig in the title roles. With a supporting ensemble that includes Jamie Dornan, Damon Wayans Jr., Vanessa Bayer, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Phyllis Smith, and a few surprise celebrity cameos, this is an appropriately star-studded cast. If you're wondering where or how you recognize all the high-profile people involved with this movie, we're here to help.

Here's how you recognize the Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar cast.

Kristen Wiig (Star/Sharon Gordon Fisherman)

In the dual roles of Star, one-half of our vacationing leads, and Sharon Gordon Fisherman, our scheming supervillain dead-set on seeking revenge on the citizens of Vista Del Mar, Kristen Wiig was, fittingly enough, the star of Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. She also co-wrote the movie alongside her screen partner, Annie Mumolo. Most notably, Wiig is known for her multi-Emmy nominated work on Saturday Night Live, where she was a main cast member from 2005 through 2012. The actress also starred in and co-wrote 2011's hit comedy, Bridesmaids, for which she was Oscar-nominated alongside Annie Mumolo for Best Original Screenplay.

Kristen Wiig's other starring roles include The Spoils of Babylon, for which she was Emmy-nominated, MacGruber, The Skeleton Twins, Welcome to Me, Ghostbusters (2016), Girl Most Likely, Hateship Loveship and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. She also played supporting characters in Knocked Up, Whip It, Paul, The Martian, Downsizing, mother!, Masterminds, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, Zoolander 2, and Wonder Woman 1984. And Wiig lent her voice to the Despicable Me movies, the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, Sausage Party, The Looney Tunes Show, Big Mouth, and Fox's Bless the Harts. Her other TV credits include recurring roles in Arrested Development, Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp, The Spoils Before Dying, and The Last Man on Earth.

Annie Mumolo (Barb Quicksilver)

As Barb Quicksilver, the other half of our vacationing BFFs, Annie Mumolo found her first feature starring role in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, which she also wrote alongside her screen partner, Kristen Wiig. As an actress, Mumolo can also be seen in This is 40, Bad Moms, The Boss, Looks That Kill, Afternoon Delight, and Bewitched. You may also recognize her as the nervous seat-mate to Kristen Wiig's character during the hilarious plane scene in Bridesmaids.

On television, Annie Mumolo was part of the main cast for NBC's About a Boy. She can also be seen in Modern Family, Transparent, Angie Tribeca, and Quibi's Mapleworth Murders. As a voice actress, Mumolo played a prominent role in Curious George, The Looney Tunes Show, American Dad!, and Handy Manny. Next, Mumolo will be seen in Queenpins.

Jamie Dornan (Edgar Paget)

Playing the part of Edgar Paget, a woefully romantic hitman who unwittingly enters a three-way relationship with Barb and Star, Jamie Dornan gave one of his most surprising, inspired, and musical performances in this wacky new comedy. Previously, Dornan starred in the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy. The former model was also seen in The Fall, Once Upon a Time, Marie Antoinette, Anthropoid, The Siege of Jadotville, and New Worlds. His other notable credits include My Dinner with Herve, Untogether, A Private War, Robin Hood (2018), The 9th Life of Louis Drax, and Death and Nightingales.

Most recently, Jamie Dornan starred in Wild Mountain Thyme, as well as Endings, Beginnings and Synchronic. He can also be heard in last year's Trolls World Tour. Next, he'll be seen in Kenneth Branagh's Belfast.

Damon Wayans Jr. (Darlie Bunkle)

In the role of Darlie Bunkle, a secret spy who doesn't keep his identity much of a secret, Damon Wayans Jr. played a goofy side personality in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Most notably, Wayans Jr. is known for his starring roles in ABC's Happy Endings, Fox's New Girl, CBS's Happy Together, and Epix's The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair. His other television credits include My Wife and Kids, Bob's Burgers, The Twilight Zone, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Sherman's Showcase, and Hoops.

Additionally, Damon Wayans Jr.'s film credits include starring roles in Let's Be Cops, Dance Flick, and last year's Love Guaranteed. The actor can also be seen in Blankman, The Other Guys, Someone Marry Barry, How to Be Single, and Super Troopers 2. Wayans Jr. can also be heard in Marmaduke, Big Hero 6, The Land Before Time XIV: Journey of the Brave, and Trouble. Next, he'll be seen in Cherry, Supercool, and Long Weekend.

Michael Hitchcock (Gary)

As Gary, the overworked concierge at a very fancy (and overbooked) Vista Del Mar hotel, Michael Hitchcock plays a supporting role in this new comedy. Notably, Hitchcock can also be seen in Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, Happy Texas, A Mighty Wind, Serenity (2005), For Your Consideration, Wild Hogs and Bridesmaids. On television, Hitchcock served as a writer on MADtv, Glee, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and he appeared in all three shows. Furthermore, the actor also appeared in episodes of Trial & Error, Black Monday, Space Force, The Goldbergs, Veep, The New Normal, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The United States of Tara, Men of a Certain Age, NYPD Blue, and Arrested Development. Next, he'll be seen in The Bystanders and Amazon Prime's A League of Their Own.

Reyn Doi (Yoyo)

Playing the part of Yoyo, Sharon Gordon Fisherman's kidnapped 12-year-old assistant, Reyn Doi is an underutilized supporting player in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Prior to his breakout performance in this ultra-silly comedy, Doi was seen in bit roles in S.W.A.T., Kidding, and Mythic Quest: Raven's Banquet. The child actor also appeared in a variety of short films. Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is Doi's first feature film.

Vanessa Bayer (Debbie)

In the role of Debbie, the pushy rule-enforcing leader of the Talking Club, Vanessa Bayer played a memorable supporting role in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Most notably, Bayer is known for her Emmy-nominated work in Saturday Night Live, where she served as a cast member between 2010 through 2017. She also starred in Netflix's Ibiza and played supporting roles in Trainwreck, Office Christmas Party, The Polka King, and Wander Darkly. She can also be heard in Despicable Me 2. Additionally, on television, Bayer can be seen in Will & Grace, I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, Drunk History, Man Seeking Woman, Portlandia, The Mindy Project, and Modern Family. The actress also played a recurring role in Brooklyn Nine-Nine's most recent season. Additionally, Bayer was the star and co-creator of the web series, Sound Advice.

Next, Vanessa Bayer will star in, executive produce, and co-create Showtime's I Love You For This.

Phyllis Smith (Delores)

As Delores, the horse-loving member of the Talking Club, Phyllis Smith plays a mild-mannered supporting character in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Most notably, Smith is known for her work in NBC's The Office. She also voiced Sadness in Inside Out. Smith's other notable TV credits include The OA, where she was a series regular, as well as Arrested Development, Trophy Wife, and The Middle. Additionally, on the big screen, Smith can be seen in Bad Teacher and Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked. Outside of acting, Smith served as a casting associate for The Office, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Spin City, and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. She also served as the uncredited narrator of The Princess and the Goblin.

Wendi McLendon-Covey (Mickey Revelet)

Playing the part of Mickey Revelet, a sunny friend who gleefully shares the news about the vast wonders of Vista Del Mar with our downtrodden titular friends, Wendi McLendon-Covey plays a small-but-pivotal character in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Most notably, McLendon-Covey is known for her starring roles in Reno 911! and The Goldbergs, which is still ongoing. Some of her other notable credits include Bridesmaids, Rules of Engagement, What to Expect When You're Expecting, Bewitched, Think Like a Man Too, Hello My Name Is Doris and Blended. Additionally, McLendon-Covey played the lead role in 2019's indie drama, Blush. She also lends her voice to the animated series, Big City Greens.

Most recently, outside of Barb and Star, Wendi McLendon-Covey was seen in Sylvie's Love and Breaking for Whales. She also reprised her role as Deputy Clementine Johnson in Quibi's Reno 911! reboot. She'll soon be seen in Long Weekend and Sick Girl, as well as heard in M.O.D.O.K.

Fortune Feimster (Pinky)

In the role of Pinky, an animated member of the Talking Club, Fortune Feimster is an animated side character in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Most notably, Feimster was seen in The Mindy Project. Her other television credits include Chelsea Lately, where she was a writer and recurring Round Table co-host, Life in Pieces, Champions, Another Period, Chelsea, 2 Broke Girls, Workaholics, and Glee. She was also a contestant on Last Comic Standing. Additionally, Feimster appeared in Office Christmas Party, Chick Fight, Father of the Year, The Happytime Murders, and Friendsgiving. The comic can also be heard in Soul, Summer Camp Island, Bless the Harts, and The Simpsons.

Outside of acting, Feimster hosts Sirius XM's What a Joke with Papa and Fortune. Next. Feimster will be seen in Netflix's Yes Day, Deported, and NBC's Kenan.

Rose Abdoo (Bev)

As Bev, another member of the Talking Club, Rose Abdoo can be seen in several scenes in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. The actress-comedian is best known for her work in Gilmore Girls and That's So Raven. She also had recurring roles in Parenthood, Bunheads, Scandal, and Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. Additionally, the actress appeared in Veep, Better Things, Mike & Molly, Castle, Shameless, Psych, Malcolm in the Middle, Wizards of Waverly Place, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. She was also seen in Peacock's Saved by the Bell.

Rose Abdoo's other film credits include My Best Friend's Wedding, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Bad Teacher, Other People, Good Night and Good Luck, Cake, and Friendsgiving. And she's heard in Legally Blondes and Hotel Transylvania 2.

Mark Jonathan Davis (Richard Cheese)

In what will hopefully be a star-making role for the Vegas favorite, lounge singer parody star Richard Cheese made a hell of a cinematic debut in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Performed in character by Mark Jonathan Davis, the musician previously did voice work for The LEGO Batman Movie, Batman Beyond, Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, Superman: The Animated Series, Batman Beyond: The Movie, American Dad!, and Superman/Batman: Public Enemies. Also, Davis played brief supporting turns in The Comedy Team of Pete & James and Friday Night. Additionally, the singer did voice work for Lands of Lore III, and he's heard on the soundtracks for House of Mouse, Dawn of the Dead (2004), The Leftovers, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. He also frequently performed on Last Call with Carson Daly.

As a musician, Richard Cheese has released several albums with his band, including Lounge Against the Machine, Aperitif for Destruction, The Sunny Side of the Moon, and this year's Big Cheese Energy.

Josh Robert Thompson (Morgan Freemond)

Believe it or not, Morgan Freeman did not lend his famous voice to Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Rather, the voice of Morgan Freemond, i.e. the sage and remorseful crab nearing the end of his wistful sandy life, was supplemented by voice actor Josh Robert Thompson, best known for playing loyal skeleton robot sidekick Geoff Peterson on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Away from this late-night talk show, Thompson can also be heard in Family Guy, American Dad!, Robot Chicken, Skylanders Academy, The Cleveland Show, Scary Movie V, Man Seeking Woman, The Angry Birds Movie, The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature, and We Bare Bears, among several other projects.

Additionally, last year, Josh Robert Thompson served as the uncredited narrator of Hulu's The Binge. Thompson also played the lead in 2014's indie comedy, Nowhere Girl.

If you haven't watched it already, find out how to stream Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar here.

Barb And Star Test Audiences Apparently Had No Idea Who Was Playing The Villain Role

Sean O'Connell — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 02:30:05 +0000

This story is going to get into deep spoilers for the new comedy Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar, so stop reading now if you haven’t yet seen the movie.

By now, you know that Barb and Star isn’t exactly the movie that it advertised itself to be. The trailers suggested a buddy comedy for middle-aged Midwestern ladies starring Kristen Wiig and her Bridesmaids co-writer, Annie Mumolo. And it IS that… but that kernel is wrapped inside of an unconventional spy movie starring a ghost-white Bond villain named Sharon Gordon Fisherman who has a devious revenge scheme worked up against the coastal Florida town of Vista Del Mar, where Barb (Mumolo) and Star (Wiig) happen to be vacationing.

And in the role of Sharon Gordon Fisherman? Well, that’s Kristen Wiig, pulling double duty as the film’s evil villain, as well as one of the heroes who are going to foil Fisherman’s sinister plan. It’s similar to the days when Mike Myers would trade off scenes as both Austin Powers and his arch nemesis, Dr. Evil. Only, early audiences for Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar didn’t recognize Kristen Wiig in her second role, or so the film’s director tells us.

Josh Greenbaum stopped by the ReelBlend podcast this week to spill the tea on his wild new comedy, and when we opened the conversation up to Sharon Gordon Fisherman, he told us:

One of the greatest compliments I think to [Kristen Wiig] is that when we did early test screenings, it was so many people that were like, ‘Who is that villain? She's so good. I can't put my finger on who the actress is.’ And that's, I think, such a compliment to her role. My other fun, short story about that is we had a guy even working on the film, doing some color work early on in the process. He worked on the film for three days. Every day, I’d check in on him and he’d say, ‘Don't tell me. I haven't figured it out yet. I’ve got to go to IMDB. But I want to figure out who it is.’ He worked on it for three days and didn't figure it out that it was Kristen. We do a couple of tricks. We add a little tooth gap… and a little prosthetic on the nose, and obviously, she's actually wearing some interesting contact lenses. But the rest of it is just her performance and how she completely goes from one character to the other.

Sharon Gordon Fisherman looks like she’d be right at home in a Tim Burton movie. Her skin is pale white, and her hair is jet black. She despises the citizens of this quaint town for the way they humiliated Sharon at a young age. And this dual role is one that’s wildly unexpected, because all hints of the crime story are kept out of the film’s trailers.

For his part, Josh Greenbaum thinks it’s unprecedented what Kristen Wiig is doing on screen, stating:

Here's what's interesting for me. I don't know that I've ever seen [this] from a female [actor]. … I remember Peter Sellers did it in Dr. Strangelove. And of course the wonderful Mike Myers did it. But I can't really point to a female comedian doing it where she's the hero and the villain in the same film. And no one can do it as great as the amazing Kristen Wiig.

It really is a sight to see. And you can see it now that Barb and Star is available to stream everywhere that movies can be rented. Once you do, listen to our full interview with Josh Greenbaum.

And then check out the full review for Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar, written by our very own Eric Eisenberg.

One Of Bridesmaids Biggest Scenes Almost Featured A Dead Woman Gag, According to Kristen Wiig

Adrienne Jones — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 21:22:40 +0000

Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo struck pay dirt when they wrote the script for Bridesmaids. Not only was the female-centered, R-rated comedy filled with the kind of consistent laughs and sight gags that help make the film just as enjoyable during repeat viewings, but it was (as you may remember) also one of the biggest hits of 2011. Now, though, we know that the film could have been a bit darker, as Wiig has revealed that she and Mumolo had a gag planned which would have involved a dead woman.

While the idea of Bridesmaids touching on something that, in theory, could have been so serious might sound like an idea that's completely left of center, let's not forget just how funny Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig made explosive diarrhea and a whole host of other things which can cause a lot of stress in real life. The writing partners spoke with the New York Times about their recently released comedy Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, and when asked whether or not Bridesmaids had included more absurdist humor like their new film, Wiig said:

When we were running around to find Lillian [the bride, played by Maya Rudolph], we were going to find a woman lying on the ground. We’re like, 'It’s Lillian — she’s dead!' And then we were like, 'Oh wait — it’s not Lillian.' And then we just keep running.

If you've seen Bridesmaids, and I certainly hope you have by this point, you can probably imagine how this would have been worked into the film and, likely, fit right in. Kristen Wiig also noted that she and Annie Mumolo had, originally, planned for there to be a couple of musical numbers in the movie, so they clearly had a lot of plans for even more wackiness to ensue than it did.

Of course, toward the end of Bridesmaids, we've been watching Wiig's character, Annie, endure events as her life quickly falls apart while her best friend, Lillian, is preparing for her wedding and the happiest time of her life. But, yet another potential wrench has been thrown into the mix, as Annie's movie-long nemesis, Helen (Rose Byrne), asks for help finding Lillian on the day of her wedding.

As Wiig tells it, when the two are searching for the (supposed) runaway bride, they happen upon a dead woman lying on the ground and think it was their friend, only to realize it wasn't and happily ignore that they just found a dead body so they could keep looking for Lillian.

Wiig and Mumolo didn't say why the gag was cut from the script, but I can totally see this being a perfectly shocking funny moment among the many others in Bridesmaids. If you'll recall, the search for Lillian led to Annie and Helen mending fences and being able to clear a way for Lillian's friends to become friendly in their own right. I'm sure eventually dealing with the fact that they found a dead woman would have been able to help that bonding along, and trust that Wiig and Mumolo could have made such a moment oddly funny.

You can relive the (dead body-free) joys of Bridesmaids on Amazon and a variety of other streaming services, and also check out Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo in their new film, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, which is available to stream right now.

Up next: 2021 New Movie Releases: The Full Movie Release Date Schedule

How To Watch Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Streaming

Philip Sledge — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 22:35:37 +0000

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It has already been a decade since Kirsten Wiig and Annie Mumolo got together to write and star in Bridesmaids, and if the past tells us anything, their latest collaboration, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, looks like it will become yet another cult classic we’ll be talking about for years to come. But we can’t talk about the movie unless we see it, and the best way to watch the comedy about two Midwestern women looking for a good time (not just with Jamie Dornan) is streaming. But where and how can we watch Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar streaming anyway? Funny you should ask.

Now, more so than ever before, watching a movie from the comfort of your own home on any number of streaming services is about as easy as it gets. That being said, while we push through the final weeks of wintry cold weather, here’s everything you need to know about escaping to a tropical dreamland and watch Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar streaming.

Where Is Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Streaming

Were you bummed out to hear that Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar wasn’t coming to theaters, but instead would be exclusive to the premium video on demand market? Well, just like the titular characters leaving their Midwestern town for the first time, you are about to find yourself on a wild, daring adventure into the world of streaming.

If you want to watch Kristen Wiig, Annie Mumolo, Jamie Dornan, and the rest of the outrageous cast, all you have to do is go to the digital retailer of your choice, search for Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, purchase your 48-hour rental, and start watching the two best friends embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Right now, the movie is only set up as a PVOD rental, which means there aren't any purchase options for it yet.

Rent Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar on Amazon here.

The digital version of Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar will be available for purchase on March 26, 2021. The Blu-ray will go on sale on April 6. Pre-order it here.

Will Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Be On Netflix?

With Lionsgate probably wanting to make as much money from VOD purchases of Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (especially with no theatrical release), the chances of watching the February 2021 comedy on Netflix at any point in the near future are most likely slim to none. Now, this isn’t to say the movie won’t eventually turn up on the streaming giant, but your best chance of watching the movie right now is the VOD route.

Here’s What Critics Had To Say About Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar

No surprise here, but Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is already being considered one of the funniest movies of 2021, and we’re only a two months in at this point. CinemaBlend’s Eric Eisenberg, who gave the movie 4.5 out of 5 stars, commented on everything from Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo’s comedic chemistry, Jamie Dornan’s surprisingly hilarious performance, and the general timing of the jokes before stating:

Whether or not it finds an immediate audience is incidental, as it is guaranteed to be headed towards cult movie status; the only question pre-release is exactly how big the cult will be.

CinemaBlend isn’t the only outlet to sing high praises for Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar as multiple publications like IndieWire, The Wrap, and Variety gave the movie glowing reviews prior to the film’s release.

Now that you know how and where to watch Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, what critics are saying about it, and other information, all that is left to do is give the movie a shot for yourself.

Up next: Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Cast: Where You've Seen Them Before

Kristen Wiig's Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar Reviews Have Dropped, Here's What Critics Are Saying

Sydney Skubic — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:55:05 +0000

Kristen Wiig’s latest adventure on the big screen is here. Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, who co-wrote the 2011 comedy Bridesmaids, have teamed up once again for Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar. Directed by Josh Greenbaum, the film features lifelong friends Barb (Annie Mumolo) and Star (Kristen Wiig) as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime when they decide to leave their small Midwestern town for the first time ever to go on vacation in Vista Del Mar, Florida.

Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar drops on VOD today, and critics have begun sharing their thoughts on the film.

CinemaBlend’s own Eric Eisenberg gave Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar 4.5 out of 5 stars and says that, though it takes a minute to adjust to the movie’s absurdity, the movie is spectacular fun. He calls Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo a phenomenal and enchanting pair, and was surprised at how Jamie Dornan “comes out of Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar looking like a comedy genius.” He continues, saying:

Whether or not it finds an immediate audience is incidental, as it is guaranteed to be headed towards cult movie status; the only question pre-release is exactly how big the cult will be.

Jamie Dornan’s comedy chops seemed to surprise several people (who apparently haven't seen his Instagram). David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter pointed out that Dornan proves to be “a great sport in a himbo performance that's equal parts amusing and endearing.” Rooney notes the film’s “infectious spirit,” saying:

An unapologetically delirious frolic in which lifelong friendship is tested by romance, adventure and the mass-extermination plan of an archvillain, this disarming escape to turquoise waters and a seafood buffet will be just what many folks need right now.

Owen Gleiberman of Variety describes Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar as a film that could be a spin-off of an SNL sketch but is actually executed well, and notes that “while it has more chuckles than belly laughs, doesn’t feel padded.” He goes on to compliment the performances of Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, saying:

The movie may be an extended sketch, but these two sketch it in with saucy spirit.

Alonso Duralde of The Wrap was excited that Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar is a movie that diverges from the “same bland assembly line” that many other films seem to emerge from. Though he mentions that not all of the jokes hit 100% of the time for him because all viewers have different opinions about comedy, the movie kept him intrigued. He continued, saying:

All comedy is subjective, of course, and Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar is aggressive in being true to itself and its own vision. Those not on board will roll their eyes and wonder what the fuss is about, while fans will watch it repeatedly, quote it forever, and dress as the characters for Halloween.

Kate Erbland of IndieWire was a little bit less impressed with Barb And Star Go to Vista Del Mar. She noted that the film is mostly hysterical, but criticizes its cohesiveness. She said:

They stretch even their best gags to untenable ends. At a bloated 107 minutes, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar comes mighty close to overstaying its welcome, with convoluted story beats often tripping up even the most inspired of punchlines.

It would seem that though receiving a smattering of mostly positive, but somewhat mixed, reviews, Barb And Star Go to Vista Del Mar will probably make you laugh. It might even generate a cult following, though we'll have to wait and see just how big that cult becomes.

You can watch Barb And Star Go to Vista Del Mar on VOD today.