Totoro is making his way back onto the big screen.
As part of GKIDS and Fathom Entertainment’s Studio Ghibli Fest, “My Neighbor Totoro” will be re-released in theaters across the country July 19-23. Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 film follows sisters Satsuki and Mei, who relocate to a country home alongside their father to be close to their hospitalized mother. As the two children explore the countryside, they stumble upon creatures, including forest spirit Totoro.
Screenings will include both English dubbed and Japanese versions. Audience members can stick around after the film ends for a “Creating the Characters” bonus featurette that will include Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki.
This year’s Studio Ghibli Fest consists of an eight-film lineup, including “The Boy and the Heron” (the first time the film returns to theaters after its 2023 release).
Tickets for “My Neighbor Totoro” are available at GhibliFest.com. July 19, 20 and 23 are the dates for the English dubbed showings, while July 21-22 will be the dates for the Japanese language versions.
Monday, June 23
Alamo Drafthouse and Toho International Announce ‘Godzilla’ In-Theater Collaboration
Godzilla is set to take over the big screen!
Alamo Drafthouse and Japan’s Toho International have officially announced a multi-year collaboration. “Godzilla” fans can expect screenings of Toho’s classic films throughout July. Classics such as “Destroy All Monsters,” “Godzilla VS. Hedorah,” and “Mothra,” with additional programming of kaiju classics will be screened. The multi-year collaboration will begin at the brand-new Alamo Drafthouse Valley Fair, one of the company’s two Silicon Valley expansions opening this summer, which will be located at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara.
“From the moment “Godzilla” rumbled onto screens in 1954, Toho’s kaiju have inspired generations of movie lovers, including our team,” said Chaya Rosenthal, Chief Marketing Officer of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. “Launching this partnership at our newest and biggest theater ever lets us celebrate that legacy with epic screenings, jaw-dropping lobby displays, and one-of-a-kind collectibles that only Alamo Drafthouse can deliver.”
The partnership’s launch event is planned for later this year with a nationwide birthday bash on Nov. 3. in celebration of Godzilla’s birthday, a full merch rollout, and additional surprises in theaters.
‘The Devil Wears Prada,’ ‘Pretty Woman’ and More Among Hulu and SLS Hotels Summer Poolside Cinema Lineup
“The Devil Wears Prada” and “Pretty Woman” are among the films screening as part of Hulu and SLS Hotels “Summer Poolside Cinema” program.
The weekly movie series will take place at the LiDiDa Rooftop Lounge pool deck. Audiences can experience watching films from Hulu, pool-side dining and the opportunity to receive complimentary popcorn. All screenings will begin each week at 8:00 pm, with doors set to open at 7:00 pm.
Among the other films screening are “Independence Day” on June 29. “The Sandlot,” “My Cousin Vinny” and “Little Miss Sunshine” will also screen. The series will continue throughout August with movies like “Rio,” “The Proposal,” “Father of the Bride” and “Pretty Woman” on the program. “The Devil Wears Prada” starring Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt, will close out the series on Aug. 31.
Pre-purchased tickets are required for access to the Poolside Cinema, which includes admission to the deck, popcorn and a $45 beverage and drink credit.
Tuesday, June 24
Gathr Helps Launch Single Day Screenings For ‘The Last Class’ Documentary
“The Last Class” will launch a Theatrical On Demand nationwide campaign on July 14 and Sept. 17 for audiences to purchase tickets and request local screenings. The campaign follows the announcement of the film’s theatrical release, which begins on June 27.
“The Last Class” is a documentary that reflects on the life of educator Robert Reich as he teaches his final course to students. The film is directed by Elliot Kirschner and produced by Heather Kinlaw Lofthouse and Josh Melrod. The film is a production of CoffeeKlatch Productions in partnership with Inequality Media Civic Action.
“Teaching has always been one of the most meaningful parts of my life,” Reich said in a statement. “‘The Last Class’ captures not just my final lecture but the urgency of preparing a new generation to confront the challenges of democracy itself. I’m thrilled that this film is reaching audiences and students across the country in theaters and through grassroots screenings—because education must remain the frontline of democracy.”
Powered by Gathr, the nationwide event will take place in AMC and Cinemark theaters with screenings hosted by local ambassadors.
On opening weekend, the film will be screened in New York, Portland, Ore., Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, Sacramento, Calif., Seattle, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Berkley, Calif., Albuquerque, N.M., Houston, Washington, D.C., Boston, St. Louis, San Francisco, San Diego, Austin, Texas, St. Paul, Minn., San Jose, Calif., and Miami.
Tom Segura to Lead and Produce R-Rated Comedy Film ‘El Tigre’
Tom Segura is set to lead and produce the upcoming R-rated comedy film “El Tigre” for Double Down Pictures, with production beginning this summer in New Mexico.
The movie marks the feature film debut of Segura, a stand-up comedian and actor who has appeared in a list of film and TV projects, including “Countdown,” “Bad Thoughts” and “Instant Family.” The script was written by Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley. Tyler Cornack of “Mermaid” will direct the project.
“El Tigre” follows Jeff (Segura) and his friends, who travel to Mexico and discover that Jeff is a lookalike for the infamous cartel leader El Tigre, who’s gone missing. After being captured by rivals and then rescued by El Tigre’s forces, Jeff is forced to pretend to be their leader until he can find his friends and escape.
Segura and Ryan P. Hall’s YMH Studios is producing the movie alongside Will Meldman and Eddie Glaeser for Double Down Pictures and M. Riley and Molly Mandel for Mosaic.
“From the moment I read this script, I knew I had to play this part,” Segura said in a statement. “As a fellow business owner, I’ve always found it inspiring how productive and efficient cartel leaders can be. This whole team is so excited to make a great comedy, and I’m so thrilled to be a part of it.”
‘Bone Lake’: Bleecker Street Debuts Trailer and Announces Release Date
Bleecker Street announced that the spooky-sexy film “Bone Lake” is set for an October 24 release.
Per the official description, “A couple’s romantic vacation at a secluded lakeside estate is upended when they are forced to share the mansion with a mysterious and attractive couple. In this darkly hilarious and seductive horror story, a dream getaway spirals into a nightmarish maze of sex, lies, and manipulation, bringing terrifying secrets to light and triggering a bloody battle for survival.”
Mercedes Bryce Morgan directed the Joshua Friedlander-written thriller.
Watch the trailer below.
‘The Greatest Thing Ever: A Garden Cartoon Movie’ Set to Be Released on Home Entertainment
“The Greatest Thing Ever: A Garden Cartoon Movie” will be released on home entertainment platforms on July 1st.
Created by Butch Hartman (“The Fairly OddParents”), the film marks the first feature-length adventure for characters Lenny Lion and Lucy Lamb. The story follows our lovable heroes as they journey through “the Garden” on a quest to find “The Greatest Thing Ever”—a mysterious treasure that “The Boss” has challenged them to discover. As their adventure unfolds, they gradually realize that life’s most valuable treasures cannot be held in their paws—a heartwarming revelation that perfectly aligns with BMG-Global’s mission to deliver meaningful faith-based content that resonates with audiences of all ages.
“Children are naturally curious about big questions; this film meets them where they are,” said Steve Bulzoni, EVP of BMG-Global. ‘The Greatest Thing Ever: A Garden Cartoon Movie’ embodies our mission to create faith-based entertainment that children connect with emotionally. Lenny and Lucy’s discovery about what truly matters in life speaks directly to the spiritual growth we hope to nurture in young audiences.”
Said Hartman, “As the demand for content that bridges entertainment with spiritual themes increases, ‘The Greatest Thing Ever: A Garden Cartoon Movie’ is another example of how BMG-Global is addressing that audience’s need,” said Hartman. “This movie encompasses all the components that family audiences enjoy and that I have become known for over the past couple of decades: adventure, spectacle, humor, working towards a goal, suspense – all fortified by foundational messages of family connection and positive values. I’m thrilled with the result, and I think families all around the world will be too.”
The creative team includes Ramiro Olmos as creative director, Nick Kalmar and Stephen Picher as co-directors.
Exceptional Minds Appoints Former Disney & Discovery Senior Executive Lauren DeVillier as CEO
Lauren DeVillier has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer for Exceptional Minds, a nonprofit academy and professional animation and visual effects studio supporting young adults on the autism spectrum.
As the CEO, DeVillier will oversee the Academy and Studios, advancing the organization’s mission across emerging creative industries.
With more than 20 years of executive experience working alongside companies like The Walt Disney Company, Yahoo!, Discovery Networks, and Microsoft, DeVillier has crafted strategic growth and technology innovation across multiple sectors. DeVillier was the co-founder and CEO of Struum, where she launched a streaming service that redefined audience access to TV and film through content partnerships and platform strategies.
“Neurodiversity fuels creativity, innovation, and authenticity—and Exceptional Minds proves that every day,” said DeVillier. “This organization stands at the intersection of purpose and possibility, preparing autistic talent to thrive in the industries shaping our future. I see a powerful path forward: expanding into AI, gaming, and the creator economy, where our artists won’t just participate—they’ll lead. I’m honored to help shape its next chapter. I couldn’t imagine a mission more aligned with my values and vision.”
“Exceptional Minds is entering a bold new era—one defined by strategic leadership, expanding industry relevance, and deepened commitment to our mission,” said Patricia Turney, Board Chair about DeVillier’s new position. “With Lauren’s appointment, we’re bringing in a leader whose expertise spans media, technology, and creative innovation. Her vision will further position our Academy students and alumni for meaningful careers in the digital arts and the rapidly evolving creative economy.”
DeVillier serves on the Board of Inner-City Arts in Los Angeles and the Access/VSA Advisory Board of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, as well as serving as a member of the Producers Guild of America.
Wednesday, June 25
‘Train Dreams’ Gets Theatrical Release and Netflix Premiere Date Set For November
“Train Dreams” is slated to release in select theaters in November. It will premiere on Netflix Nov. 21.
“Train Dreams” tells the story of Robert Grainier, a logger who helps expand the railways across America. Grainer struggles to understand his place in an ever-changing world after spending long periods away from his wife, Gladys, and their young daughter. The film explores the love, loss and friendships that Grainer experiences throughout his journey.
“Train Dreams” is adapted from Denis Johnson’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated novella of the same name. Narrated by Will Patton, the film stars Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Nathaniel Arcand, Clifton Collins Jr., John Diehl, Paul Schneider, Kerry Condon and William H. Macy. The film will be directed by Clint Bentley, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Greg Kwedar.
The movie is produced by Marissa McMahon, Teddy Schwarzman, William Janowitz, Ashley Schlaifer, Michael Heimler. Additionally, Edgerton, Scott Hinckley, Kwedar and John Friedberg are responsible for executive producing the film.
Warner Bros. Discovery Launches ‘Superman’ Campaign In Collaboration With Best Friends Animal Society
In connection with DC Studios’ “Superman,” Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has launched a campaign with Best Friends Animal Society.
The campaign is designed to raise awareness of adoptable pets nationwide and help remove the barriers that face potential pet owners. To support the organization, “Superman” director James Gunn filmed a public service announcement that featured Superman’s dog, Krypto, which will air on WBD platforms nationwide and in AMC theaters in July.
WBD will also cover adoption fees from July 1-10 at select Best Friends Animal Society locations in Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Salt Lake City, Northwest Arkansas and the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.
“Right now, adoptable dogs and cats across the country are looking for superheroes of their very own,” Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, said. “At Best Friends Animal Society, we believe every story should have a heroic ending and that by teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery on James Gunn’s new ‘Superman,’ – we can help inspire people across the country to use their superpowers to save lives.”
Other aspects of the campaign to support Best Friends Animal Society include a Charitybuzz auction for a chance to win tickets to the L.A. premiere of DC Studios’ “Superman,” family day adoption events at WBD offices in select cities and a DIY dog toy intern volunteer activity.
