Freeform President Tom Ascheim and Executive Vice President of Programming and Development Karey Burke will unveil today the new and returning projects for The Walt Disney Company’s young adult cable network at the combined Disney|ABC Television’s presentation for the national advertising community at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall.
Freeform continues to dominate the young adult landscape in cable with the No. 1 comedy (“grown-ish”) and the No. 1 new drama (“Siren”) with young women (18-34 and 12-34). Also claiming the title of No. 1 most social cable network for the 7th year in a row and the No. 1 network in digital viewing, Freeform is delivering on its new tagline “A Little Forward.”
The recently re-branded network continues to build its roster of quality programming that speaks to the young adult consumer who has embraced its authenticity, evident in recent multi-platform hits “grown-ish,” “Siren” and the critically acclaimed “The Bold Type.” In addition to strong female representation on-screen, the network champions and has built an impressive, inclusive roster behind the scenes. Half of Freeform’s episodic directors are female, diverse, or LGBTQ, 60% of series writers are female or diverse, and every original series on the network has a female producer. The network also boasts placement as No. 1 in digital viewing, No. 5 entertainment network and the most social cable network for the seventh year in a row.
“In the past year, our commitment to quality has been reflected back to us with a rousing chorus of critical and fan acclaim,” says Ascheim. “Our young adult audience is the most important and influential generation in America and we want to be right there with them every step of the way.” Adds Burke, “We like changing the narrative at Freeform and are proud that our original programming resonates so strongly with this audience. We are grateful to all of our series creators who share our focus on challenging the status quo and telling stories with meaning.”
NEW SERIES PROGRAMMING
“BESTIES”
“Besties,” a half-hour multi camera comedy from co-creators Kenya Barris and Ranada Shepard has been ordered to series by Freeform following the enormous success of Barris’s breakout coming-of-age show, “grown-ish,” the No. 1 cable comedy season-to-date (women 18-34.) This multi-cam sitcom explores friendship, identity, race, and class as two lifelong best friends use each other to get through some of the toughest challenges that they will ever face – figuring out who they are and who they want to be. Kenya Barris and Ranada Shepard are executive producers; the series is produced by ABC Signature Studios.
“PRETTY LITTLE LIARS: THE PERFECTIONISTS”
I. Marlene King will expand the universe of “Pretty Little Liars” for Freeform with a 10-episode series order for “Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists,” featuring returning fan favorites Sasha Pieterse as Alison and Janel Parrish as Mona and starring Sofia Carson (Disney’s “Descendants”) as Ava. The drama also welcomes Sydney Park (“The Walking Dead”) as Caitlin, newcomer Eli Brown as Dylan, Graeme Thomas King (“The Widow”) as Jeremy, Kelly Rutherford (“Gossip Girl”) as Claire, and Hayley Erin (“General Hospital”) in an undisclosed role. In Beacon Heights, a seemingly perfect town, a group of three college friends struggle with the stress of being overachievers. In the aftermath of the town’s first murder, each Perfectionist hides behind a secret, a lie and an alibi. Like its predecessor, “Pretty Little Liars,” which was No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list, “The Perfectionists” is also based on a popular book series penned by Sara Shepard. “Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists” is produced by Alloy Entertainment and Long Lake Media, in association with Warner Horizon Scripted Television. I. Marlene King (“Pretty Little Liars,” “Famous in Love”) wrote the pilot and serves as executive producer on the series with Charlie Craig (“Pretty Little Liars,” “The 100”), Lisa Cochran-Neilan (“Pretty Little Liars,” “Famous in Love”), Leslie Morgenstein (“Pretty Little Liars,” “The Vampire Diaries”) and Gina Girolamo (“The 100,” “The Originals”). The pilot was directed and executive produced by Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum (“Relationship Status”).
RETURNING SERIES PROGRAMMING
“SIREN”
Following the news of “Siren’s” premiere as the No.
1 new cable drama with young women (18-34 and 12-34), Freeform announced a second season pickup for the mermaid thriller, whose season one finale airs Thursday, May 24th. The network also added six more episodes to next season’s order, up from ten this season. “Siren” is an epic tale about the coastal town of Bristol Cove, known for its legend of once being home to mermaids. The arrival of a mysterious girl, Ryn (Eline Powell), wreaks havoc on the small fishing town as she proves the folklore true. Using their resources, marine biologists Ben (Alex Roe) and Maddie (Fola Evans-Akingbola) must work together to find out who and what drove this primal hunter of the deep sea to land and if there are more like her. Xander (Ian Verdun) is a deep-sea fisherman looking to uncover the truth and Helen (Rena Owen), the town eccentric, knows more than she lets on. Eric Wald and Dean White co-created the story and serve as executive producers along with showrunner and executive producer Emily Whitesell. Brad Luff, Nate Hopper and RD Robb are also attached as executive producers.
HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING
The network will expand its holiday dominance with over 1000 hours of themed programming kicking off with “31 Nights of Halloween” on Oct. 1, an increase of the annual “13 Nights of Halloween.” The network also introduced Freeform Santa (“Shadowhunters” star Isaiah Mustafa) and November’s “Kick Off to Christmas.” Then the iconic “25 Days of Christmas” returns to the entire Disney|ABC Television on DEC. 1, the only major media network to offer a unified holiday programming initiative. During last year’s “25 Days of Christmas,” Freeform led the television group with 80MM unique viewers, accounting for more than half of the 151MM total unique viewers across all channels.
From the executive producers of the “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings” series, Ann Lewis Roberts, Simon Lythgoe and Jenny Daly, “Decorating Disney: Halloween” will be part of “31 Days of Halloween.” This behind-the-scenes special will reveal all the tricks and treats behind the transformation of the Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts into the scariest, yet still magical, places on Earth!
Freeform will continue the spooktacular festivities with a celebration for one of the most beloved Halloween movies with the “Hocus Pocus 25th Anniversary Extravaganza.”
Two Freeform original holiday films, “Life Size 2” and “Sleeping Together,” will also be part of the holiday lineup. In the former, Tyra Banks, who will also executive produce, reprises her iconic role as a doll that comes to life; but in the sequel, Eve has grown up. This time she’s magically awakened to help a young woman learn to live and love again. Along the way, Eve experiences the ups and downs of real life in an edgy, fun, modern Christmas movie.
“Sleeping Together” is an unexpected and whimsical holiday rom-com about two insomniac strangers plagued by exhaustion. After a brief meeting, they discover that they can only fall asleep if they are sleeping next to each other. What seems like an odd coincidence, and frankly a disruption to their lives, might be more meaningful than they’d like to admit.
PILOTS
Freeform also announced last week a pilot order for “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay,” from critically acclaimed writer and comedian Josh Thomas. The pilot introduces Nicholas, a typical 25-year-old still living at home with his single dad and two teenage half-sisters, who is not particularly helpful in raising his siblings, one of which has autism. However, when their dad becomes terminally ill, the girls have to cope not only with a devastating loss but with the realization that Nicholas is the one who will have to hold it all together. Thomas created the concept and wrote and stars in the pilot with David Martin, Jon Thoday, and Richard Allen-Turner serving as executive producers for Avalon Television. Stephanie Swedlove and Kevin Whyte also serve as executive producers. Produced by Avalon Television and Freeform Studios, it will be distributed internationally by Avalon Distribution
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Rating: (4/5)
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a visually ambitious sci-fi film featuring an ensemble of Indian cinema legends, including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The film is set in a dystopian future with a storyline that weaves mythology and science fiction, creating a unique cinematic experience for viewers.
The film’s narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where technology and ancient themes intersect. It begins with an immersive setup that introduces us to Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, who grapples with complex moral and existential questions in a world marked by political and ethical turmoil. Although the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially as it establishes the mythological underpinnings, the intensity and scope build significantly as the story progresses.
One of the most captivating aspects is the stunning visual effects. The production team, with a budget reportedly over 400 crore INR, utilized advanced CGI to craft expansive landscapes, dramatic space battles, and futuristic cityscapes that resemble scenes from Hollywood sci-fi giants. The action sequences, particularly those featuring Bachchan, stand out with their thrilling choreography and careful dramatic build-up. These sequences balance between traditional Indian cinema stylings and Hollywood’s polished sci-fi tropes.
While Kalki 2898 AD relies heavily on genre conventions, it manages to bring a fresh twist by blending mythological symbolism with modern sci-fi elements. However, some may find the film’s narrative occasionally predictable, and the focus on visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. Yet, the powerhouse performances from the lead cast, particularly Bachchan and Padukone, provide the emotional depth needed to keep audiences engaged.
In summary, Kalki 2898 AD is an impressive venture into the sci-fi genre for Indian cinema, successfully balancing myth with high-tech fantasy. While not without flaws, it’s an enjoyable and bold cinematic experience that’s worth a watch for fans of both Indian mythology and science fiction.
Gladiator 2 builds on the legacy of its predecessor, delivering a captivating story that honors the original while forging a compelling new path. The cast shines in their roles, with Paul Mescal delivering a powerhouse performance as Lucius, the now-grown son of Maximus. Mescal captures a blend of vulnerability and strength, embodying a character driven by both honor and revenge. Alongside him, Denzel Washington commands the screen, adding gravitas and depth to a key supporting role
The screenplay is a triumph, keeping the audience engaged at every turn. While the overarching story gives you a sense of where it’s headed, the journey remains unpredictable, and packed with twists. The film balances themes of legacy, vengeance, and redemption, weaving them seamlessly into the narrative.
Action sequences, particularly the gladiatorial combat, are visually pleasing. The fights are brutal and visceral, with just enough gore to feel authentic without veering into excess. Visually, Gladiator 2 is stunning. The production design, cinematography, and score come together to create a visceral and immersive experience.
As a follow-up to a beloved classic, Gladiator 2 meets expectations, proving to be both a thrilling spectacle and a worthy successor. It’s a 9/10—a tale of honor and legacy.
Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, the long-awaited cinematic adaptation of the Broadway musical, soars as a dazzling spectacle that captivates audiences with its lush visuals, heartfelt performances, and rich storytelling. The film, the first in a two-part series, delves into the origins of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their unlikely friendship and the events that transform them into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) lead the cast with exceptional performances. Erivo’s powerful vocals and nuanced portrayal of Elphaba’s internal struggles bring depth to the character. Grande, in her most notable film role to date, is both hilarious and heartfelt as Glinda, perfectly capturing her charm and comedic timing. Supporting performances by Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero), Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), and Jeff Goldblum (the Wizard) add layers to the narrative, enriching the world of Oz with compelling subplots.
Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, brings his signature style to Wicked, blending vibrant visuals with emotional resonance. The production design by Nathan Crowley is stunning, vividly rendering Oz with grandeur, from the Emerald City to Shiz University. Paul Tazewell’s costume design is equally striking, updating the Broadway look with cinematic flair. The score, by Stephen Schwartz and John Powell, retains iconic musical numbers like “Defying Gravity” while incorporating new arrangements that heighten their cinematic impact.
Critics have hailed Wicked as one of the best musical-to-film adaptations in decades, rivaling Chicago and Mamma Mia. Chu’s decision to split the adaptation into two parts allows for a deeper exploration of the story, giving audiences time to connect with the characters and their journeys. Fans of the Broadway show will appreciate its faithfulness to the source material, while newcomers will be enchanted by its universal themes of acceptance, ambition, and friendship.
With Wicked, Jon M. Chu has delivered a masterpiece that sets a new standard for musical adaptations. The film is a visual and emotional triumph, showcasing unforgettable performances and a meticulously crafted world. Whether you’re a fan of the original musical or new to the story, Wicked is a must-see cinematic event.
Rating: 3.5/5
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Gladiator 2 Builds On The Legacy Of Its Predecessor,
Wicked Soars As A Dazzling Spectacle
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