Mike Sampson is the Editor-in-Chief of ScreenCrush. He studied to become a lawyer and worked as an architectural planner after graduating college but neither of these professions afforded him the opportunity to watch movies and TV for a living. He previously served as the Editor-in-Chief of JoBlo.com for 10 years. He lives in New Jersey and probably spends too much time playing video games and overthinking things.
Mike Sampson
‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Star Dave Bautista Cast as ‘Bond 24′ Villain
We'd previously heard that the 'Bond 24' filmmakers wanted the villain for the upcoming sequel to be unlike the modern day villains and instead a throwback to the big hulking henchmen like Jaws or Oddjob. The casting call was looking for "an imposing, extremely physically fit actor" over 6'2" tall. Not a ton of guys like that around, but the director Sam Mendes didn't have to look further than the biggest movie of the year.
Original ‘Ghostbusters’ Star Thinks Female-Led Reboot is a Bad Idea
Most of us have felt that a 'Ghostbusters' sequel/reboot is a bad idea for a long time. In fact, so many people have thought it's a bad idea that Sony Pictures had a hard time finding anyone to even work on it (Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg turned the project down multiple times). But, when it was announced that Paul Feig would be directing a female-led 'Ghostbusters' movie, we had to at least respect that they were trying something different instead of just another tired sequel. Unfortunately not everyone feels that way, including original Ghostbuster Ernie Hudson.
Robert Downey Jr. Clarifies ‘Iron Man 4′ Rumors: No Plans, But Another Marvel Movie in the Works
There's been a lot of 'Iron Man 4' talk over the past few days as Robert Downey, Jr. continues his whirlwind promotional tour for 'The Judge' across a multitude of talk shows. He's confirmed it, issued demands, backpedaled, confirmed it again and now, via an appearance on David Letterman last night, he clarified all the recent rumors and (we think?) issued the definitive word on 'Iron Man 4' and his future at Marvel.
Could Spider-Man Be Joining the ‘Avengers’ in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Just yesterday, we heard the very sad and strange tale of acrimony that currently exists between Marvel and Fox, the studio that owns the 'X-Men' and 'Fantastic Four' movie rights. It will very likely be a cold day in hell by the time we ever see the likes of Iron Man and Wolverine pair up on the big screen (regardless of what Hugh Jackman says), but is it possible that The Avengers could actually be crossing over with another superhero from another universe? Namely, The Amazing Spider-Man?
Will ‘Avengers 3′ Boast a Completely Different Superhero Lineup?
Recently we heard the 'Avengers 3' rumor that the final movie of the current Marvel Cinematic Universe may be split into two films. The word was that was unlikely to happen though, because of expiring contracts for actors like Robert Downey, Jr. and Chris Evans that would be too costly to renew. It looks though that Marvel may have found a clever way around that plan. A completely different superhero lineup for 'Avengers 3'.
Robert Downey, Jr. Agrees to Star in ‘Iron Man 4′ (On One Condition…)
First, the good news: Robert Downey, Jr. has agreed to star in 'Iron Man 4' for Marvel! Considering everything he has been saying over the past year or so - essentially that he can't imagine an 'Iron Man 4' ever happening - that's a major step in the right direction and a huge win for Marvel Studios. But...Downey's agreement has come with one rather large condition. That his old friend, and current member of the Hollywood blacklist, Mel Gibson be allowed to direct.
Adam Sandler Signs Deal to Star in Four Original Netflix Movies
Hot off the heels of their partnership with The Weinstein Co. to release their first original feature film ('Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2'), Netflix has announced yet another deal that will bring original movies to their subscription service. The company has just announced a deal with Adam Sandler for the exclusive rights to four upcoming movies that the comedian will star in and produce.
‘Tetris’ Movie in the Works, Will Be a “Very Big, Epic Sci-Fi” Film
What was a joke just two years ago, is now going to be a reality: the classic strategy video game 'Tetris' is becoming a movie.
Nicolas Cage’s Upcoming Movie is Using Quotes From Satan in Its Ads
Usually when a studio is looking to promote their movie, they'll include a quote from a film critic lavishing superlatives on the movie in question. Nicolas Cage's upcoming movie 'Left Behind' is trying a different approach. Instead of quoting film critics, they're quoting Satan, The Prince of Darkness.
Dan Aykroyd Wants ‘Ghostbusters’ to Be Like the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Ever since the Marvel Cinematic Universe became a huge success, there were immediate imitators trying to follow that same model. From the 'Justice League' films to 'Amazing Spider-Man' and, heck, even the upcoming 'Star Wars' movies. It all seemed a bit much, to be honest. But, this latest news might take the cake (or donut?) when it comes to biting style. Dan Aykroyd, the only one involved with the original 'Ghostbusters' who seems to want to have anything to do with the new 'Ghostbusters' says he wants to relaunch the franchise following the Marvel "shared universe" strategy.
Celebrate ‘Ghostbusters’ 30th Anniversary With Stay Puft Marshmallow Donuts at Krispy Kreme
There are a few ways you could celebrate the 30th anniversary of 'Ghostbusters'. You could watch the film again with the new 30th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray. You could sing Bobby Brown's "On Our Own" at karaoke. Or, you could gorge yourself on sweet 'Ghostbusters' inspired donuts at Krispy Kreme. (We choose the latter.)
‘Star Wars’ Spinoff to Follow Obi-Wan Kenobi?
So far, we have heard rumors that two of the three planned 'Star Wars' spinoffs were to follow Boba Fett and Han Solo. Then there was the mysterious third spinoff, which we haven't much concrete information on. Until now. A recent report suggests that despite earlier reports that the spinoffs wouldn't follow any Jedi or Sith characters, Lucasfilm is currently working with artists and a writer to develop an Obi-Wan Kenobi movie.