Hollywood actor Steven Spielberg went to all lengths to make Will Smith agree to&nbsp;his movie Men in Black, which went on to become iconic. The Oscar-winning actor revealed recently that he was not at all interested in playing Agent J in the movie. However, it was Steven who eventually made him say yes to the role.&nbsp;

During his latest appearance on Kevin Hart’s Hart to Heart show, the actor recalled how he was about to say no to the 1997 movie that went on to become a blockbuster.

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Talking to Hart, Will revealed that he got the offer of the film just after his 1996’s Independence Day.&nbsp;Both films had the aliens as the main subject, and this was the main reason why Will was happy to play the role.&nbsp;Will said he just “didn’t want to make two alien movies back to back.”

Despite what Smith's choice was, Spielberg, who was the executive producer of Men in Black, made him say yes. During the interview, the actor shared that Steven sent a helicopter to his home. Yes, you are reading it right, he sent an actual helicopter.&nbsp; 
 
“I was in New York. To talk to me. … It landed at his house. And he had me at hello. … And it was the first time I ever had lemonade with carbonated water. You can’t say no to that.”

“He said the coldest shit,” Will told before adding,&nbsp;“He said, ‘Tell me, tell me why you don’t want to make my movie. And he was the producer. … And he put the ellipsis at the end, it was the dot, dot, dot. … If he had continued, he would have said, ‘Joker, you know I made Jaws, right? You know I made E.T.'”

Smith went on to play the role of Agent J in the three Men in Black films. After the 1997 film Men in Black, the actor reprised his role in its two sequels, Men in Black 2 and Men in Black 3. 
 
During the latest episode of Kevin Hart’s show, the actor said that several times he lost the roles that went to become iconic, but it was his former manager and longtime business partner James Lassiter, who made his sign some of the most notable projects and roles of his career.&nbsp;

Talking about the same Smith said Lassiter was “the arbiter of taste”.

“In the heyday, the 10 movies I made at the top of my career, JL was choosing the films,” he said. “He just, he just had an eye, I didn’t want to make Pursuit of Happiness. I didn’t want to make Ali. … And JL picked Men in Black. I kind of understood Men in Black a little bit but I didn’t want to make Men in Black.”

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Hollywood actor Steven Spielberg went to all lengths to make Will Smith agree to his movie Men in Black, which went on to become iconic. The Oscar-winning actor revealed recently that he was not at all interested in playing Agent J in the movie.

Hollywood actor Steven Spielberg went to all lengths to make Will Smith agree to his movie Men in Black, which went on to become iconic. The Oscar-winning actor revealed recently that he was not at all interested in playing Agent J in the movie. However, it was Steven who eventually made him say yes to the role. During his latest appearance on Kevin Hart’s Hart to Heart show, the actor recalled how he was about to say no to the 1997 movie that went on to become a blockbuster. Emily Blunt is 'so ready' to reunite with Tom Cruise for Edge of Tomorrow 2: I would love... Talking to Hart, Will revealed that he got the offer of the film just after his 1996’s Independence Day. Both films had the aliens as the main subject, and this was the main reason why Will was happy to play the role. Will said he just “didn’t want to make two alien movies back to back.” Despite what Smith's choice was, Spielberg, who was the executive producer of Men in Black, made him say yes. During the interview, the actor shared that Steven sent a helicopter to his home. Yes, you are reading it right, he sent an actual helicopter. “I was in New York. To talk to me. … It landed at his house. And he had me at hello. … And it was the first time I ever had lemonade with carbonated water. You can’t say no to that.” “He said the coldest shit,” Will told before adding, “He said, ‘Tell me, tell me why you don’t want to make my movie. And he was the producer. … And he put the ellipsis at the end, it was the dot, dot, dot. … If he had continued, he would have said, ‘Joker, you know I made Jaws, right? You know I made E.T.'” Smith went on to play the role of Agent J in the three Men in Black films. After the 1997 film Men in Black, the actor reprised his role in its two sequels, Men in Black 2 and Men in Black 3. During the latest episode of Kevin Hart’s show, the actor said that several times he lost the roles that went to become iconic, but it was his former manager and longtime business partner James Lassiter, who made his sign some of the most notable projects and roles of his career. Talking about the same Smith said Lassiter was “the arbiter of taste”. “In the heyday, the 10 movies I made at the top of my career, JL was choosing the films,” he said. “He just, he just had an eye, I didn’t want to make Pursuit of Happiness. I didn’t want to make Ali. … And JL picked Men in Black. I kind of understood Men in Black a little bit but I didn’t want to make Men in Black.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did you know Steven Spielberg sent a helicopter to convince Will Smith for Men in Black?

Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has a thing or two to say about streaming platforms. In an interview with the NYT, the filmmaker said that streaming services like HBO Max have thrown filmmakers “under the bus” by not putting their projects up in theatres and directly releasing on their platform.&nbsp;

This is in reference to Warner Bros’ decision to release all of its 2021 films simultaneously on HBO Max and theatres. Expressing his dislike for this, Steven Spielberg said, “The pandemic created an opportunity for streaming platforms to raise their subscriptions to record-breaking levels and also throw some of my best filmmaker friends under the bus as their movies were unceremoniously not given theatrical releases. They were paid off and the films were suddenly relegated to, in this case, HBO Max. The case I’m talking about. And then everything started to change.”

“I think older audiences were relieved that they didn’t have to step on sticky popcorn,” Spielberg continued. “But I really believe those same older audiences, once they got into the theater, the magic of being in a social situation with a bunch of strangers is a tonic… it’s up to the movies to be good enough to get all the audiences to say that to each other when the lights come back up.”

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Spielberg admits that the pandemic brought a few changes in how the audience watches cinema but he still prefers a theatrical release. The filmmaker's last directorial project ‘The Fabelmans’ opens exclusively in select movie theatres on November 11 before getting worldwide release on November 23.&nbsp;

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Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has a thing or two to say about streaming platforms. In an interview with the NYT, the filmmaker said that streaming services like HBO Max have thrown filmmakers “under the bus” by not putting their projects up in theatres and directly releasing on their platform.

Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has a thing or two to say about streaming platforms. In an interview with the NYT, the filmmaker said that streaming services like HBO Max have thrown filmmakers “under the bus” by not putting their projects up in theatres and directly releasing on their platform. This is in reference to Warner Bros’ decision to release all of its 2021 films simultaneously on HBO Max and theatres. Expressing his dislike for this, Steven Spielberg said, “The pandemic created an opportunity for streaming platforms to raise their subscriptions to record-breaking levels and also throw some of my best filmmaker friends under the bus as their movies were unceremoniously not given theatrical releases. They were paid off and the films were suddenly relegated to, in this case, HBO Max. The case I’m talking about. And then everything started to change.” “I think older audiences were relieved that they didn’t have to step on sticky popcorn,” Spielberg continued. “But I really believe those same older audiences, once they got into the theater, the magic of being in a social situation with a bunch of strangers is a tonic… it’s up to the movies to be good enough to get all the audiences to say that to each other when the lights come back up.” Jennifer Aniston opens up about her IVF struggle: Challenging road for me Spielberg admits that the pandemic brought a few changes in how the audience watches cinema but he still prefers a theatrical release. The filmmaker's last directorial project ‘The Fabelmans’ opens exclusively in select movie theatres on November 11 before getting worldwide release on November 23.

Steven Spielberg not fond of OTTs: They have thrown my filmmaker friends 'under the bus'

Steven Spielberg's coming-of-age drama 'The Fabelmans' has won big at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film&nbsp;won the festival's coveted top prize, the People's Choice Award. 
 
Steven's drama, which stars Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, and Seth Rogen among others, has been highly appreciated by the audience. The semi-autobiographical drama is inspired by Steven's childhood, like how a young boy found his interest in cinema, the troubled marriage of his parents and other important aspects of his life.&nbsp; 
 
People's Choice Award is known for predicting the frontrunners of the coming award season and especially Academy awards. Over the years, every TIFF winner has scored a nomination in Oscar's top categories including Best Picture. And out of many nominations, three films like Chloé Zhao's 'Nomadland', &nbsp;'12 Years A Slave' and 'Green Book' even won the top prize.&nbsp;

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Reacting to his big win Spielberg said in a statement,&nbsp;“As I said on stage the other night, ‘Above all, I’m glad I brought this film to Toronto!’ This is the most personal film I’ve ever made, and &nbsp;the warm reception from everyone in Toronto made my first visit to TIFF so intimate and personal for me and my entire Fabelman family,”

“Thank you to Cameron Bailey and the incredible staff at TIFF; thank you to Universal Pictures; and a very special thank you to all the movie fans in Toronto who have made this past weekend one I’ll never forget.” 
 
The inspiring story of a little boy&nbsp;has been highly praised at the festival by the audience. Last weekend, during its world premiere, the movie earned a&nbsp;long-standing ovation from the audience who cheered loudly for Spielberg's outstanding work.

Toronto&nbsp;runners-up included 'Women Talking' by Sarah Polley and "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery" by Rian Johnson.

The top documentary prize went to Hubert Davis's 'Black Ice,'&nbsp;a Canadian movie about historic racism in the world of professional ice hockey.

(With inputs from agencies)

Steven Spielberg's coming-of-age drama 'The Fabelmans' has won big at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film won the festival's coveted top prize, the People's Choice Award.

Steven Spielberg's coming-of-age drama 'The Fabelmans' has won big at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film won the festival's coveted top prize, the People's Choice Award. Steven's drama, which stars Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, and Seth Rogen among others, has been highly appreciated by the audience. The semi-autobiographical drama is inspired by Steven's childhood, like how a young boy found his interest in cinema, the troubled marriage of his parents and other important aspects of his life. People's Choice Award is known for predicting the frontrunners of the coming award season and especially Academy awards. Over the years, every TIFF winner has scored a nomination in Oscar's top categories including Best Picture. And out of many nominations, three films like Chloé Zhao's 'Nomadland', '12 Years A Slave' and 'Green Book' even won the top prize. Whole Britain cried again! How Queen Elizabeth's death brings back memories of Diana's funeral Reacting to his big win Spielberg said in a statement, “As I said on stage the other night, ‘Above all, I’m glad I brought this film to Toronto!’ This is the most personal film I’ve ever made, and the warm reception from everyone in Toronto made my first visit to TIFF so intimate and personal for me and my entire Fabelman family,” “Thank you to Cameron Bailey and the incredible staff at TIFF; thank you to Universal Pictures; and a very special thank you to all the movie fans in Toronto who have made this past weekend one I’ll never forget.” The inspiring story of a little boy has been highly praised at the festival by the audience. Last weekend, during its world premiere, the movie earned a long-standing ovation from the audience who cheered loudly for Spielberg's outstanding work. Toronto runners-up included 'Women Talking' by Sarah Polley and "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery" by Rian Johnson. The top documentary prize went to Hubert Davis's 'Black Ice,' a Canadian movie about historic racism in the world of professional ice hockey. (With inputs from agencies)

Steven Spielberg reacts to his big TIFF win, calls ‘The Fabelmans’ his 'most personal film ever'

Disney and 20th Century’s ‘West Side Story’ will not premiere in Saudi Arabia and the other Middle Eastern countries. An adaptation by Steven Spielberg of the classical musical has been banned in these countries after the film wasn’t granted a release certificate.&nbsp;

The total countries where the film has been banned are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait. While in some places, they weren’t issued the certificates, in others Disney refused to comply with cuts requested by the censors.&nbsp;

The move doesn’t come as a total shocker as the Middle Eastern countries have strict censorship mandates regarding sexuality, swearing, and other aspects that don’t comply with the nation’s cultural views.&nbsp;

It’s being understood that censors weren’t on board with Anybodys, a character who is transgender and portrayed by non-binary actor Iris Menas. Films with LGBTQ references have been regularly targeted by censors in the Middle East, as well as China.&nbsp;

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In a similar fashion, MCU’s ‘Eternals’ faced issues with its release and was eventually pulled from release because the film showed Marvel’s first openly same-sex couple. In the movie, Brian Tyree Henry’s otherworldly character Phastos shares a kiss with his mortal husband Ben (Haaz Sleiman).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-shang-chi-sequel-in-works-original-director-destin-daniel-cretton-to-return-434823" hreflang="en">'Shang-Chi' sequel in works, original director Destin Daniel Cretton to return</a>

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Meanwhile, Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ will release this Friday in other regions. It comes after a gap of 60 years from its original film which was also an adaptation of 1957 Broadway show. The 2021 film features Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort as star-crossed lovers. The cast also includes Ariana DeBose as Anita, David Alvarez as Bernardo, Mike Faist as Riff, and Rita Moreno as Valentina.

Disney and 20th Century’s ‘West Side Story’ will not premiere in Saudi Arabia and the other Middle Eastern countries. An adaptation by Steven Spielberg of the classical musical has been banned in these countries after the film wasn’t granted a release certificate.

Disney and 20th Century’s ‘West Side Story’ will not premiere in Saudi Arabia and the other Middle Eastern countries. An adaptation by Steven Spielberg of the classical musical has been banned in these countries after the film wasn’t granted a release certificate. The total countries where the film has been banned are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait. While in some places, they weren’t issued the certificates, in others Disney refused to comply with cuts requested by the censors. The move doesn’t come as a total shocker as the Middle Eastern countries have strict censorship mandates regarding sexuality, swearing, and other aspects that don’t comply with the nation’s cultural views. It’s being understood that censors weren’t on board with Anybodys, a character who is transgender and portrayed by non-binary actor Iris Menas. Films with LGBTQ references have been regularly targeted by censors in the Middle East, as well as China. Also read: Justin Bieber performs in Saudi Arabia despite pressure to cancel the concert In a similar fashion, MCU’s ‘Eternals’ faced issues with its release and was eventually pulled from release because the film showed Marvel’s first openly same-sex couple. In the movie, Brian Tyree Henry’s otherworldly character Phastos shares a kiss with his mortal husband Ben (Haaz Sleiman). Also read: 'Shang-Chi' sequel in works, original director Destin Daniel Cretton to return Ariana Grande, Megan Thee Stallion, Jimmy Fallon release new Christmas song Meanwhile, Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ will release this Friday in other regions. It comes after a gap of 60 years from its original film which was also an adaptation of 1957 Broadway show. The 2021 film features Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort as star-crossed lovers. The cast also includes Ariana DeBose as Anita, David Alvarez as Bernardo, Mike Faist as Riff, and Rita Moreno as Valentina.

Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' banned in Saudi Arabia, UAE and other neighbouring regions

Trailer of Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film ‘West Side Story’ dropped today and it gives a glimpse of Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort's love.&nbsp;

The musical film is a revival of the famed Broadway Classic.

The ‘West Side Story’ trailer showcases the known storyline of forbidden love between Tony (Ansel Elgort) and Maria (Rachel Zegler). Coming from rival gangs of Jets and Sharks, Tony and Maria's doomed romance finds another level of grandiose in Spielberg's eyes. Set in 1957 New York City, the promo showcases how hard the production design team has worked on this film along with the costume department.&nbsp;

Watch West Side Story trailer here:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A5GJLwWiYSg" title="YouTube video player" width="854"></iframe>

The cast looks promising. The film also stars Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist, Josh Andrés Rivera, Ana Isabelle, Corey Stoll, Brian d’Arcy James, and Rita Moreno in key roles.&nbsp;

‘West Side Story’ has been set to release on December 10, 2021.&nbsp;

Trailer of Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film ‘West Side Story’ dropped today and it gives a glimpse of Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort's love. The musical film is a revival of the famed Broadway Classic.

Trailer of Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film ‘West Side Story’ dropped today and it gives a glimpse of Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort's love. The musical film is a revival of the famed Broadway Classic. The ‘West Side Story’ trailer showcases the known storyline of forbidden love between Tony (Ansel Elgort) and Maria (Rachel Zegler). Coming from rival gangs of Jets and Sharks, Tony and Maria's doomed romance finds another level of grandiose in Spielberg's eyes. Set in 1957 New York City, the promo showcases how hard the production design team has worked on this film along with the costume department. Watch West Side Story trailer here: The cast looks promising. The film also stars Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist, Josh Andrés Rivera, Ana Isabelle, Corey Stoll, Brian d’Arcy James, and Rita Moreno in key roles. ‘West Side Story’ has been set to release on December 10, 2021.

West Side Story: Steven Spielberg's upcoming film drops trailer

Remember child&nbsp;actress Julia Butters from ‘Once Upon A Time In Hollywood’? Well, she seems to have caught the eye&nbsp;of ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg as he has roped her for his next film which is loosely based on the director’s childhood growing up in Arizona. Julia Butters&nbsp;would play the sister to the young filmmaker (Gabriel LaBelle) at the centre of the story.

Among those already on the call list are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-steven-spielberg-ropes-in-four-time-oscar-nominee-michelle-williams-for-his-next-drama-flick-369560">Michelle Williams</a> who is set to play the role inspired by Spielberg’s mom in the film. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/steven-spielberg-ropes-in-seth-rogen-to-play-his-real-life-uncle-in-next-film-372536">Seth Rogen</a> will play Spielberg’s favourite uncle and Paul Dano will essay the character inspired by Spielberg’s father.

This is a film with which Steven Spielberg will return to a lot of roles -- first time since 2001’s A.I. that he will take up screenwriting duties, co-writing the script with Tony Kushner, who has penned several Spielberg movies.&nbsp;

The film will start shooting this summer. It is expected to hit theatres in 2022.&nbsp;

Remember child actress Julia Butters from ‘Once Upon A Time In Hollywood’? Well, she seems to have caught the eye of ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg as he has roped her for his next film which is loosely based on the director’s childhood growing up in Arizona.

Remember child actress Julia Butters from ‘Once Upon A Time In Hollywood’? Well, she seems to have caught the eye of ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg as he has roped her for his next film which is loosely based on the director’s childhood growing up in Arizona. Julia Butters would play the sister to the young filmmaker (Gabriel LaBelle) at the centre of the story. Among those already on the call list are Michelle Williams who is set to play the role inspired by Spielberg’s mom in the film. Seth Rogen will play Spielberg’s favourite uncle and Paul Dano will essay the character inspired by Spielberg’s father. This is a film with which Steven Spielberg will return to a lot of roles -- first time since 2001’s A.I. that he will take up screenwriting duties, co-writing the script with Tony Kushner, who has penned several Spielberg movies. The film will start shooting this summer. It is expected to hit theatres in 2022.

Steven Spielberg casts child actor Julia Butters in film on his childhood

Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has roped in four-time Oscar nominee Michell Williams in his next drama film.&nbsp;

According to various reports, Steven Spielberg is working on his post West Side Story movie project. It is reportedly a story that is rooted in his childhood. It is said to be loosely rooted in the filmmaker’s formative years and chronicles his relationship with his parents.

The script is penned by Tony Kushner and himself. Both men have collaborated before on films like ‘Lincoln’, ‘Munich’.&nbsp;

Steven has cast Michell Williams for the leading part and is currently taking test screenings for young actors who would star in the film.&nbsp;

The yet-to-be-titled film is scheduled for a July start date and is being slated for a release in 2022.&nbsp;

As for Steven Spielberg’s childhood, he used to live in the Phoenix in the late 1950s and 1960s. He has spoken about his childhood years on several occasions. His family moved to California when he was still in high school and then his parents got divorced. Steven stayed with his father. He had a strained relationship with his father and kept his mother on a pedestal. Some say it resulted in movies like ‘E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial’, ‘Hook’, ‘Jurassic Park’, ‘Lincoln’ and ‘Catch Me If You Can’.

Michelle Williams will reportedly play the mother.&nbsp;

Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has roped in four-time Oscar nominee Michell Williams in his next drama film. According to various reports, Steven Spielberg is working on his post West Side Story movie project.

Ace filmmaker Steven Spielberg has roped in four-time Oscar nominee Michell Williams in his next drama film. According to various reports, Steven Spielberg is working on his post West Side Story movie project. It is reportedly a story that is rooted in his childhood. It is said to be loosely rooted in the filmmaker’s formative years and chronicles his relationship with his parents. The script is penned by Tony Kushner and himself. Both men have collaborated before on films like ‘Lincoln’, ‘Munich’. Steven has cast Michell Williams for the leading part and is currently taking test screenings for young actors who would star in the film. The yet-to-be-titled film is scheduled for a July start date and is being slated for a release in 2022. As for Steven Spielberg’s childhood, he used to live in the Phoenix in the late 1950s and 1960s. He has spoken about his childhood years on several occasions. His family moved to California when he was still in high school and then his parents got divorced. Steven stayed with his father. He had a strained relationship with his father and kept his mother on a pedestal. Some say it resulted in movies like ‘E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial’, ‘Hook’, ‘Jurassic Park’, ‘Lincoln’ and ‘Catch Me If You Can’. Michelle Williams will reportedly play the mother.

Steven Spielberg ropes in four-time Oscar nominee Michelle Williams for his next drama flick

Steven Spielberg will not be directing the upcoming 'Indiana Jones 5' film. Reports stated that the film will now be directed by James Mangold although no official contract has signed yet. In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film.&nbsp; 
 
Mangold who has in the past directed films like 'Ford v Ferrari' hasn't so far signed the deal. Spielberg will remain as a hands-on producer for the fifth film in the Indiana Jones franchise.&nbsp; 
 
A report on Variety states that the decision to leave the director`s chair was entirely Spielberg`s, in a desire to pass along Indy`s whip to a new generation to bring their perspective to the story. However, actor Harrison Ford is confirmed to be on the project, who recently made headlines speaking about the future of the franchise while promoting the upcoming film. 
 
James Mangold was a much talked about individual recently as his directorial for `Ford v Ferrari`, won Best Film Editing and Best Sound Editing at the 2020 Academy Awards and was also nominated in the tightly fought Best Picture category. He has also in the past directed 'Logan'.&nbsp;

Steven Spielberg will not be directing the upcoming 'Indiana Jones 5' film. Reports stated that the film will now be directed by James Mangold although no official contract has signed yet.

Steven Spielberg will not be directing the upcoming 'Indiana Jones 5' film. Reports stated that the film will now be directed by James Mangold although no official contract has signed yet. In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film. Mangold who has in the past directed films like 'Ford v Ferrari' hasn't so far signed the deal. Spielberg will remain as a hands-on producer for the fifth film in the Indiana Jones franchise. A report on Variety states that the decision to leave the director`s chair was entirely Spielberg`s, in a desire to pass along Indy`s whip to a new generation to bring their perspective to the story. However, actor Harrison Ford is confirmed to be on the project, who recently made headlines speaking about the future of the franchise while promoting the upcoming film. James Mangold was a much talked about individual recently as his directorial for `Ford v Ferrari`, won Best Film Editing and Best Sound Editing at the 2020 Academy Awards and was also nominated in the tightly fought Best Picture category. He has also in the past directed 'Logan'.

Steven Spielberg will not direct the fifth instalment of 'Indiana Jones': Reports

Among the top 5 trending Hollywood stories of the day, Steven Spielberg's daughter's career option takes the cake.&nbsp;

Read our picks today:

Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali to star in Apple TV+ film 'Swan Song'

Hollywood star Mahershala Ali is set to star in ‘Swan Song’, a film that will stream on Apple TV+. It will also get a theatrical release, as announced by Apple.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-winning-actor-mahershala-ali-to-star-in-apple-tv-film-swan-song-281823">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-winning-actor-mahershala-ali-to-star-in-apple-tv-film-swan-song-281823</a>

'Sex And The City' star Chris Noth becomes a father again

Happy news from Hollywood as ‘Sex And The City’ star Chris Noth became a father again as partner Tara Wilson gave birth to their second son.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-sex-and-the-city-star-chris-noth-becomes-a-father-again-281822">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-sex-and-the-city-star-chris-noth-becomes-a-father-again-281822</a>

Steven Spielberg's daughter Mikaela is now choosing a career in adult film industry

Steven Spielberg and wife Kate Capshaw's adopted daughter Mikaela, 23, has now chosen a career in adult films. In an interview to the Sun, Mikaela has revealed that she is now self-producing solo adult film videos.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielbergs-daughter-mikaela-is-now-choosing-a-career-in-adult-film-industry-281801">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielbergs-daughter-mikaela-is-now-choosing-a-career-in-adult-film-industry-281801</a>

Al Pacino turns Nazi hunter in TV series debut for Amazon

In a screen career spanning more than five decades, it has taken Al Pacino until now to act in a television series. He is starring in "Hunters", a new show for Amazon Prime that is due to be released on Friday.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-al-pacino-turns-nazi-hunter-in-tv-series-debut-for-amazon-281744">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-al-pacino-turns-nazi-hunter-in-tv-series-debut-for-amazon-281744</a>

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal duties to officially end on March 31

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will officially be exiting from the royal family on March 31, their office has announced. The couple announced in January that they would be stepping down from their roles as senior members in the royal family and dividing time between the UK and North America.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-royal-duties-to-officially-end-on-march-31-281772">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-royal-duties-to-officially-end-on-march-31-281772</a>

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Among the top 5 trending Hollywood stories of the day, Steven Spielberg's daughter's career option takes the cake. Read our picks today: Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali to star in Apple TV+ film 'Swan Song' Hollywood star Mahershala Ali is set to star in ‘Swan Song’, a film that will stream on Apple TV+.

Among the top 5 trending Hollywood stories of the day, Steven Spielberg's daughter's career option takes the cake. Read our picks today: Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali to star in Apple TV+ film 'Swan Song' Hollywood star Mahershala Ali is set to star in ‘Swan Song’, a film that will stream on Apple TV+. It will also get a theatrical release, as announced by Apple. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscar-winning-actor-mahershala-ali-to-star-in-apple-tv-film-swan-song-281823 'Sex And The City' star Chris Noth becomes a father again Happy news from Hollywood as ‘Sex And The City’ star Chris Noth became a father again as partner Tara Wilson gave birth to their second son. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-sex-and-the-city-star-chris-noth-becomes-a-father-again-281822 Steven Spielberg's daughter Mikaela is now choosing a career in adult film industry Steven Spielberg and wife Kate Capshaw's adopted daughter Mikaela, 23, has now chosen a career in adult films. In an interview to the Sun, Mikaela has revealed that she is now self-producing solo adult film videos. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielbergs-daughter-mikaela-is-now-choosing-a-career-in-adult-film-industry-281801 Al Pacino turns Nazi hunter in TV series debut for Amazon In a screen career spanning more than five decades, it has taken Al Pacino until now to act in a television series. He is starring in "Hunters", a new show for Amazon Prime that is due to be released on Friday. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-al-pacino-turns-nazi-hunter-in-tv-series-debut-for-amazon-281744 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal duties to officially end on March 31 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will officially be exiting from the royal family on March 31, their office has announced. The couple announced in January that they would be stepping down from their roles as senior members in the royal family and dividing time between the UK and North America. Read more: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-royal-duties-to-officially-end-on-march-31-281772

Top 5 Hollywood news: Mahershala Ali in 'Swan Song', Steven Spielberg's daughter in adult films

In big breaking news from Hollywood, Netflix is planning a biopic on Leonard Bernstein, the orchestra conductor, and composer of West Side Story.

As per a report in Deadline, Bradley Cooper will star in the project as well as helm it.

The feature will be produced by a consortium of big Hollywood names, including Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, ‘Joker’ helmer Todd Philips and Emma Tillinger Koskoff, a frequent film collaborator of Martin Scorsese’s. The strangest of the names in the list is that of Steven Spielberg’s who has been very critical of streaming platforms vs traditional films and distribution channels.&nbsp;

The film on Leonard Bernstein's biopic is yet-to-be-named but will have&nbsp;“a significant theatrical release before the film premieres on its streaming site, just as it did for Scorsese on The Irishman.” Remember when Martin Scorsese revealed at the time of ‘The Irishman’ that it was only Netflix that let it make the film as he visualised it. The film was three hours long.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-director-nominee-273978">Oscars 2020: Meet the nominees in the best director category</a>

Imagine the stakes of such a film at the Oscars, whenever it gets made. The names thus mentioned in the report that are in some way related to the project, have had 12 Academy Award nominations since 2018.&nbsp;

This year alone, Netflix has bagged 24 Oscar nominations in various categories and continues to grow in relevance.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">&nbsp;Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees</a>

The biopic, meanwhile, will officially enter production early next year, likely with a fall 2021 release.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-oscars-nominations-7-snubs-that-took-everyone-by-surprise-274263">Also read:&nbsp;2020 Oscars nominations: 7 snubs that took everyone by surprise</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Also see:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a>

In big breaking news from Hollywood, Netflix is planning a biopic on Leonard Bernstein, the orchestra conductor, and composer of West Side Story. As per a report in Deadline, Bradley Cooper will star in the project as well as helm it.

In big breaking news from Hollywood, Netflix is planning a biopic on Leonard Bernstein, the orchestra conductor, and composer of West Side Story. As per a report in Deadline, Bradley Cooper will star in the project as well as helm it. The feature will be produced by a consortium of big Hollywood names, including Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, ‘Joker’ helmer Todd Philips and Emma Tillinger Koskoff, a frequent film collaborator of Martin Scorsese’s. The strangest of the names in the list is that of Steven Spielberg’s who has been very critical of streaming platforms vs traditional films and distribution channels. The film on Leonard Bernstein's biopic is yet-to-be-named but will have “a significant theatrical release before the film premieres on its streaming site, just as it did for Scorsese on The Irishman.” Remember when Martin Scorsese revealed at the time of ‘The Irishman’ that it was only Netflix that let it make the film as he visualised it. The film was three hours long. Oscars 2020: Meet the nominees in the best director category Imagine the stakes of such a film at the Oscars, whenever it gets made. The names thus mentioned in the report that are in some way related to the project, have had 12 Academy Award nominations since 2018. This year alone, Netflix has bagged 24 Oscar nominations in various categories and continues to grow in relevance. Oscars 2020: Here's the full list of nominees The biopic, meanwhile, will officially enter production early next year, likely with a fall 2021 release. Also read: 2020 Oscars nominations: 7 snubs that took everyone by surprise Also see: Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night

Bradley Cooper to star and direct Netflix's Leonard Bernstein biopic, an Oscar sure shot?

The first look of Steven Spielberg`s highly-anticipated film `West Side Story` is finally out and it features Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler as star-crossed lovers and members of the rival Sharks and Jet gangs arrayed across a street. 
 
Spielberg`s production company Amblin Entertainment shared the first look of the cast of the film on its Twitter handle and it is as dramatic as it can get! 
"Meet the cast of director Steven Spielberg`s WestSideStory: Maria (newcomer Rachel Zegler), Tony (Ansel Elgort), The Jets (left) and The Sharks (right)," the caption read.

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Meet the cast of director Steven Spielberg's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestSideStory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestSideStory</a>: Maria (newcomer Rachel Zegler), Tony (Ansel Elgort), The Jets (left) and The Sharks (right).<a href="https://t.co/NjNzw4lOBx">https://t.co/NjNzw4lOBx</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSpielberg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSpielberg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rachelzegler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rachelzegler</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AnselElgort?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnselElgort</a> <a href="https://t.co/39RMq4zgr4">pic.twitter.com/39RMq4zgr4</a>
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The first look shows the rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks standing across a street. In the middle of the groups, Elgort and Zegler`s characters can be seen standing holding each other`s hands. 
 
The upcoming musical, about young love and the tension between rival gangs, is in production.&nbsp; 
 
Elgort stars as Tony and Zegler as Maria, the star-crossed lovers, alongside a host of other cast members in the first picture. 
 
Apart from Elgort and Zegler, the first look photo also reveals the other official cast members of the film including the Jets members. 
 
Interestingly, the female lead Zegler is a high school theatre kid whose viral performance of Lady Gaga`s `Shallow` caught Spielberg`s attention after which she scored the role in the film.

The upcoming film is a remake of the Oscar-winning 1961 musical about rival gangs in the streets of 1950s New York, reported The Hollywood Reporter. 
 
The much-awaited movie tells the story of Tony, a one-time member of the Jets, who falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Sharks leader, Bernardo. Their love has deadly consequences. 
 
Spielberg is adapting the original Broadway musical, which was inspired by Shakespeare`s `Romeo and Juliet`.&nbsp; 
 
Spielberg is directing as well as producing the film with a script by Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Tony Kushner. 
 
Tony-winner Justin Peck will choreograph the musical numbers in the film. The film`s music team includes Gustavo Dudamel, who will conduct the recording of Bernstein`s iconic score, reported Variety. 
 
The original 1957 Broadway musical, from which the upcoming film is adapted, was written by Arthur Laurents with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and concept, direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins. 
 
`West Side Story` hits the big screens on December 18, 2020.&nbsp;

The first look of Steven Spielberg`s highly-anticipated film `West Side Story` is finally out and it features Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler as star-crossed lovers and members of the rival Sharks and Jet gangs arrayed across a street.

The first look of Steven Spielberg`s highly-anticipated film `West Side Story` is finally out and it features Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler as star-crossed lovers and members of the rival Sharks and Jet gangs arrayed across a street. Spielberg`s production company Amblin Entertainment shared the first look of the cast of the film on its Twitter handle and it is as dramatic as it can get! "Meet the cast of director Steven Spielberg`s WestSideStory: Maria (newcomer Rachel Zegler), Tony (Ansel Elgort), The Jets (left) and The Sharks (right)," the caption read. Meet the cast of director Steven Spielberg's #WestSideStory: Maria (newcomer Rachel Zegler), Tony (Ansel Elgort), The Jets (left) and The Sharks (right).https://t.co/NjNzw4lOBx#StevenSpielberg @rachelzegler @AnselElgort pic.twitter.com/39RMq4zgr4 — Amblin (@amblin) June 17, 2019 × The first look shows the rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks standing across a street. In the middle of the groups, Elgort and Zegler`s characters can be seen standing holding each other`s hands. The upcoming musical, about young love and the tension between rival gangs, is in production. Elgort stars as Tony and Zegler as Maria, the star-crossed lovers, alongside a host of other cast members in the first picture. Apart from Elgort and Zegler, the first look photo also reveals the other official cast members of the film including the Jets members. Interestingly, the female lead Zegler is a high school theatre kid whose viral performance of Lady Gaga`s `Shallow` caught Spielberg`s attention after which she scored the role in the film. The upcoming film is a remake of the Oscar-winning 1961 musical about rival gangs in the streets of 1950s New York, reported The Hollywood Reporter. The much-awaited movie tells the story of Tony, a one-time member of the Jets, who falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Sharks leader, Bernardo. Their love has deadly consequences. Spielberg is adapting the original Broadway musical, which was inspired by Shakespeare`s `Romeo and Juliet`. Spielberg is directing as well as producing the film with a script by Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Tony Kushner. Tony-winner Justin Peck will choreograph the musical numbers in the film. The film`s music team includes Gustavo Dudamel, who will conduct the recording of Bernstein`s iconic score, reported Variety. The original 1957 Broadway musical, from which the upcoming film is adapted, was written by Arthur Laurents with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and concept, direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins. `West Side Story` hits the big screens on December 18, 2020.

'West Side Story' first look offers glimpse of young love and rival gangs

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg is writing a horror series for a forthcoming digital platform, Quibi.

According to Quibi founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, the users will only be able to see the show when their phone knows it is dark outside.

In an appearance at the Banff World Media Festival, Katzenberg revealed that his former DreamWorks Animation partner Spielberg is writing a horror series.

"Steven Spielberg has a super scary story. He's actually writing it himself. Getting him to write something is fantastic," Katzenberg said.&nbsp;

The iconic filmmaker has already written "five or six episodes of a 10- or 12-chapter story", he added.

Spielberg wanted viewers to only be able to watch the programme after midnight and to meet the requirement, Katzenberg said Quibi challenged their engineers to come up with an idea to view the show at the spookiest time.&nbsp;

A clock will appear on the phones, ticking down until the sunset, wherever the user is until it is completely gone. Then the clock starts ticking again to when the sun comes back up and the show will disappear until the next night, reported Deadline.

Besides Spielberg, the talents that have already been tapped in to produce for Quibi or star in its projects include Steven Soderbergh, Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Catherine Hardwick, Anna Kendrick, Doug Liman, Laurence Fishburne and Antoine Fuqua.

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg is writing a horror series for a forthcoming digital platform, Quibi. According to Quibi founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, the users will only be able to see the show when their phone knows it is dark outside.

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg is writing a horror series for a forthcoming digital platform, Quibi. According to Quibi founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, the users will only be able to see the show when their phone knows it is dark outside. In an appearance at the Banff World Media Festival, Katzenberg revealed that his former DreamWorks Animation partner Spielberg is writing a horror series. "Steven Spielberg has a super scary story. He's actually writing it himself. Getting him to write something is fantastic," Katzenberg said. The iconic filmmaker has already written "five or six episodes of a 10- or 12-chapter story", he added. Spielberg wanted viewers to only be able to watch the programme after midnight and to meet the requirement, Katzenberg said Quibi challenged their engineers to come up with an idea to view the show at the spookiest time. A clock will appear on the phones, ticking down until the sunset, wherever the user is until it is completely gone. Then the clock starts ticking again to when the sun comes back up and the show will disappear until the next night, reported Deadline. Besides Spielberg, the talents that have already been tapped in to produce for Quibi or star in its projects include Steven Soderbergh, Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Catherine Hardwick, Anna Kendrick, Doug Liman, Laurence Fishburne and Antoine Fuqua.

Steven Spielberg penning horror series for Quibi

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s fight against streaming platforms is real.&nbsp;

Taking it a step further, Spielberg will now speak with the Board of Governors at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to insist for a rule change that will make films made by the streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon ineligible for Oscars.

A spokesperson for Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment said, “Steven feels strongly about the difference between the streaming and theatrical situation. He’ll be happy if the others will join (his campaign) when that comes up (at the Academy Board of Governors meeting). He will see what happens.”

This comes in response to ‘Roma’ winning big awards this Oscars even though it is a Netflix film directed by Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron. The film got three big awards -- Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Foreign Language Film. It was just short of Best Picture as ‘Green Book’ took the award home.&nbsp;

Netflix has responded to this by making an indirect response to&nbsp;Spielberg’s crusade to block Netflix as a future contender during the Oscars. They tweeted:&nbsp;“We love cinema," and added, "Here are some things we also love:

Access for people who can’t always afford, or live in towns without, theaters 
Letting everyone, everywhere enjoy releases at the same time 
Giving filmmakers more ways to share art

"These things are not mutually exclusive,"&nbsp;they concluded.

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We love cinema. Here are some things we also love: 
 
-Access for people who can't always afford, or live in towns without, theaters 
-Letting everyone, everywhere enjoy releases at the same time 
-Giving filmmakers more ways to share art 
 
These things are not mutually exclusive.
— Netflix Film (@NetflixFilm) <a href="https://twitter.com/NetflixFilm/status/1102418557760024578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the 72-year-old award-winning director is not alone in his fight against films by streaming platforms as many other Academy members also argue that Netflix spent too in its marketing campaign for ‘Roma’, something around $50 million ahead of the Oscars and that the streaming giant failed to adhere to proper theatrical release rules already in place.

Last month, Spielberg took a dig at the streaming services by urging directors to make movies for the “big dark theatres”.

He had previously said that films which debut on streaming services should compete for the Emmys instead of the Oscars.

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s fight against streaming platforms is real. Taking it a step further, Spielberg will now speak with the Board of Governors at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to insist for a rule change that will make films made by the streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon ineligible for Oscars.

Veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s fight against streaming platforms is real. Taking it a step further, Spielberg will now speak with the Board of Governors at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to insist for a rule change that will make films made by the streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon ineligible for Oscars. A spokesperson for Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment said, “Steven feels strongly about the difference between the streaming and theatrical situation. He’ll be happy if the others will join (his campaign) when that comes up (at the Academy Board of Governors meeting). He will see what happens.” This comes in response to ‘Roma’ winning big awards this Oscars even though it is a Netflix film directed by Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron. The film got three big awards -- Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Foreign Language Film. It was just short of Best Picture as ‘Green Book’ took the award home. Netflix has responded to this by making an indirect response to Spielberg’s crusade to block Netflix as a future contender during the Oscars. They tweeted: “We love cinema," and added, "Here are some things we also love: Access for people who can’t always afford, or live in towns without, theaters Letting everyone, everywhere enjoy releases at the same time Giving filmmakers more ways to share art "These things are not mutually exclusive," they concluded. We love cinema. Here are some things we also love: -Access for people who can't always afford, or live in towns without, theaters -Letting everyone, everywhere enjoy releases at the same time -Giving filmmakers more ways to share art These things are not mutually exclusive. — Netflix Film (@NetflixFilm) March 4, 2019 × Meanwhile, the 72-year-old award-winning director is not alone in his fight against films by streaming platforms as many other Academy members also argue that Netflix spent too in its marketing campaign for ‘Roma’, something around $50 million ahead of the Oscars and that the streaming giant failed to adhere to proper theatrical release rules already in place. Last month, Spielberg took a dig at the streaming services by urging directors to make movies for the “big dark theatres”. He had previously said that films which debut on streaming services should compete for the Emmys instead of the Oscars.

Netflix hits back at Steven Spielberg for wanting to make films by streaming platforms ineligible for Oscars