‘Obsession’ is a sensation. Everyone, including Curry Barker, is trying to figure out what it means
NEW YORK (AP) — Over the last month, “Obsession” has sent shock waves through Hollywood. Curry Barker’s microbudget horror film has grossed $286 million worldwide, and it’s still going. In North America, it has outgrossed “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.” It’s Focus Features’ biggest hit in its 24-year existence and ranks among the most profitable movies ever made. Coupled with the A24 hit “Backrooms,” by 20-year-old Kane Parsons, it’s been a coming-out party for YouTube as a breeding ground for the next generation of filmmakers. It’s also brought waves of Gen Z moviegoers into theaters. Summer has historically been dominated by legacy franchises, but “Obsession” may represent a sea change.
A Jenna Bush Hager imprint release is now in Oprah's book club
NEW YORK (AP) — Oprah Winfrey has selected Sophie Chen Keller's novel “Little Wonder” for her book club. The book, set in China, tells the story of a food delivery worker and her musically gifted son who gets lost in Beijing. Winfrey announced her choice on Tuesday. The novel was published by Jenna Bush Hager's Thousand Voices imprint. Hager, a “Today” show host, facilitated the call where Winfrey informed Keller of her decision. Keller expressed her excitement, calling it a dream come true. Winfrey's podcast interview with Keller is available on the Oprah YouTube Channel and other outlets.
Luke's 'Empire' lightsaber, 'Wizard of Oz' witch hat and Lebowski rugs going up for auction
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A Luke Skywalker lightsaber from “The Empire Strikes Back” is expected to fetch at least $1 million at an upcoming auction. Heritage Auctions announced Tuesday that the event will be held from July 13 to 17. It features iconic items from movies, music and pop culture. Notable pieces include hats from “The Wizard of Oz” and “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” hoverboards from “Back to the Future II,” and rugs from “The Big Lebowski.” John Lennon's handwritten lyrics for “If I Fell” will also be up for sale, with bidding starting at $500,000.
The Grammys add 5 new categories and announce changes to best new artist
NEW YORK (AP) — The Recording Academy has announced changes for the 2026 Grammy Awards, including five new categories. These include best Asian pop music performance, best traditional pop vocal performance and best Latin song. Changes have also been made to the R&B and folk categories. The best R&B solo performance is reimagined, and a best R&B collaboration or duo/group performance is added. Folk now includes best contemporary folk album and best traditional folk album. The best new artist category has been updated, allowing artists to submit four times. These changes aim to reflect the evolving music industry.
'Task' master Brad Inglesby put Ruffalo's redemption at center of HBO series from the start
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The HBO show “Task” features tense standoffs and dramatic moments, but its most powerful scene may be Mark Ruffalo reading a victim impact statement in court. Ruffalo, likely to receive an Emmy nomination, plays a former priest and FBI agent seeking redemption for himself and his son. Creator Brad Inglesby told The Associated Press that the emotional journey was central to the show. Inglesby, known for “Mare of Easttown,” drew inspiration from real-life struggles of parents with disabled children. “Task” was initially a limited series, but HBO announced a second season. Season two will feature Mahershala Ali and returning cast members.
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From YouTube to Hollywood: Digital creators are remaking the movie business
NEW YORK (AP) — Some of the most promising young filmmakers in the movie business are arriving in Hollywood already experts at entertaining audiences and going viral. The twin sensations of “Obsession” and “Backrooms” — both by 20-something YouTubers-turned-filmmakers — has put a new spotlight on an increasingly well-trod path to the director’s chair. Hollywood executives are scouring video platforms like YouTube and TikTok to find the next Steven Spielberg. There, young aspiring filmmakers are not only working on their craft but building a relationship with audiences that can transfer to the box office.
'Paddington' stage musical to pack its marmalade sandwiches and travel to Broadway
NEW YORK (AP) — Paddington Bear is heading to Broadway with “Paddington The Musical” set to play at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in March. The show has already impressed critics in London, winning seven Olivier Awards, including best new musical. Director Luke Sheppard says the excitement around the show is palpable. The musical is based on Michael Bond's stories and was written by Jessica Swale and Tom Fletcher. Paddington's revival includes three successful movies and an appearance with Queen Elizabeth II. The creative team plans to fine-tune the show for its New York audience, aiming to attract first-time theatergoers.
A new Ishiguro novel heads to 1930s England, with spies, music and wit
NEW YORK (AP) — Kazuo Ishiguro's next novel, “Miss Lambert Steps Aboard Danger,” is set in 1930s England. Alfred A. Knopf announced Tuesday that the book will be published on March 9. The story revolves around an encounter between the title character and a fellow music hall attendee in London in 1938. Knopf Publisher Jordan Pavlin describes it as a blend of spy fiction and P.G. Wodehouse's wit. Ishiguro, who won the Nobel Prize in 2017, is also known for “Never Let Me Go.” A film adaptation of his novel “Klara and the Sun” is scheduled for October.
Christopher Jackson to reprise his Tony-nominated role as George Washington in 'Hamilton'
NEW YORK (AP) — Christopher Jackson is returning to his role as George Washington in he Broadway hit “Hamilton.” Jackson was an original cast member and earned a Tony nomination for the role. He says he wanted to reconnect with the show that transformed him as an artist. He'll perform at the Richard Rodgers Theatre from Sept. 8 to Jan. 3. His return follows Leslie Odom Jr., who reprised his role as Aaron Burr last year. Jackson left “Hamilton” in 2016 and has since worked on various projects, including TV shows and movies. He looks forward to creating new memories in his favorite theater.
Paris Hilton returns to Utah 'troubled teen' facility to support others who allege mistreatment
SPRINGVILLE, Utah (AP) — Paris Hilton has returned to the Utah boarding school where she said she was abused as a teenager. It's the latest stop in her yearslong campaign calling for reforms to what is commonly known as the troubled teen industry. Hilton was speaking in support of families who sued Monday alleging their children were mistreated at Provo Canyon School. Hilton spent 11 months there in the late 1990s. The hotel heiress called on licensors to shut down the school. She has testified about her experiences there in Congress and state legislatures. The school said in a statement that safety is its highest priority.
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