GOSSIP RAG (SEASON 31)

 

In this segment, we will delve into the inside dirt on some of the latest and upcoming LRF releases and the studio's stars....

Marisa Abela

Ocean Pawn was many years in the works and went through several possible leading actresses before Marisa Abela was finally awarded the role. As production neared and the lead casting was still not finalized, reportedly several meetings were held with writer Jack Ryder, director Steven S. DeKnight, and LRF executives (including LRF president Phil Dolan). Supposedly several very lucrative offers were sent out to Sydney Sweeney, but she declined them all. Eventually during one the meetings, Marisa Abela's name came up and just kind of stuck. Ultimately, finding the right leading lady didn't help much at the box office.

Jenna Ortega

Ecstasy star Jenna Ortega's recent rise to the Hollywood A-List reportedly led to a lot tension on the set of her recent film, Ecstasy. Sources claim Ortega became intensely concerned with how she looked in each scene, frequently insisting on retakes and touch-ups between shots to perfect her look as Daisy, to the frustration of director Megan Park, who prefers to work in a more streamlined style. Despite the on-set challenges, Ecstasy showcased Ortega's star power and proved to be a success at the box office.

Aaron Paul

The Ghost Rider star reportedly had a close call on the set of the sequel, Ghost Rider: Damnation, narrowly avoiding injury after his bike skidded out on a wet patch during a chase sequence. Crew members reportedly watched in shock as Paul managed to skillfully regain control of the bike just feet away from a looming camera rig. Sources on the production say that Paul handled the scary moment like a pro and was back on set and ready to go again for another take within minutes.

Woody Allen

Woody Allen's upcoming LRF debut directing The Diplomat almost never happened. His hiring was reportedly met with some hesitation from some studio executives who were concerned with Allen's controversial reputation. However, Depp, who has faced his own share of public scrutiny, stood firm in his support for the director. “Every actor of my generation grew up dreaming about appearing in a Woody Allen film,” Depp reportedly insisted during early production talks. “He’s shaped our industry.” Depp’s unwavering enthusiasm eventually won over the studio, paving the way for Allen’s return to the director’s chair.

Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm has been attached to the upcoming political drama, Repeal and Replace, penned by Alex Conn, for several seasons. However, with the project stalled in pre-production as crew and casting decisions lingered, Hamm reportedly took matters into his own hands, stepping up as a de facto producer to push the film forward. Industry insiders say Hamm’s commitment and influence were instrumental in getting the wheels turning, as he put considerable effort into securing key elements to ensure the film would hit production this season. While it remains to be seen if his added responsibilities will pay off, sources within the studio praise Hamm’s dedication, calling his efforts nothing short of monumental.