Saturday, March 12, 2016

Mike Francesa, Caller Argue Over Future Of UConn Basketball


UConn Women"s Basketball vs. East Carolina Highlights - AAC Tournament

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) Mike Francesa and a caller got into a heated exchange Wednesday over the WFAN hosts feelings about UConn mens basketball team.

Ed from Guilford, Connecticut, said Francesa harbored disdain for the Connecticut Huskies. Francesa insistedthat wasnt the case, that he was only calling UConn fans who want to see coach Kevin Ollie fired spoiled.

Francesa, however, did say he doesnt believe UConn will ever experience another run like it did under former coach Jim Calhoun again.

Georgetown hasnt been Georgetown since John Thompson left the original John Thompson. They havent been the same, Francesa said. St. Johns hasnt been the same since (Lou) Carnesecca retired. Sometimes its about the coach. And what UConn did with Calhoun was through the moon. It was outrageously good.

Source: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/03/09/mike-francesa-uconn-basketball/

Continue Reading ..

Bracketology Roundup: Kentucky Basketball in this year"s Group of Death?


1998 NCAA Basketball Regional Final - Kentucky vs Duke

Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

Rounding up the latest bracketologies from around the net.

The college basketball regular season is over as conference tournaments begin all around the nation.

That means the seedings for the NCAA Tournament are just about set as league tournaments usually don"t dramatically affect seeds outside of those automatic-qualifiers. However, history has shown that winning a conference tournament can boost a team"s seeding by a few spots, not to mention being the difference in leagues where multiple teams are vying for No. 1 seeds.

As for the Kentucky Wildcats, they"re pretty much set on being a 4 or 5 seed in the tournament, regardless of what they do in the SEC Tournament. In order to get a 3 seed, they"ll need to win their league tournament and have other teams ahead of them on the seed line suffer slip-ups this week.

ESPN"s Joe Lunardi has the Cats going out West as the 4 seed with No. 1 seed North Carolina in the West Region. The potential for a 4/5 matchup with California is there if the Cats win their first game. Both the Bears and Tar Heel are very strong on the boards and in the paint, an area where UK has struggled mightily at times this season.

Cal ranks 21st in the nation in rebounds per game (40.3) while UNC ranks ninth (41.5). Not to mention the Heels just out-rebounded Duke by a 64-29 margin. No. 2 Oklahoma is also in this region, which makes this essentially this year"s region of death if this comes to pass.

CBS Sports" Jerry Palm has the Cats getting a slightly more favorable region in the Midwest, but has UK falling to a 5 seed. Purdue comes in as the 4 seed, which is maybe the worst potential 4/5 matchup for UK. The Boilermakers have one of the best frontcourts in America withVince Edwards,A.J. Hammons and former UK targetCaleb Swanigan. This region also has Kansas as the 1 seed and Xavier as the 2 seed.

Shelby Mast of USA Today Sports has UKin the friendliest region of any recent bracketology, putting the Cats as a 3 seed in the South Region with Virginia being the 1 seed. A potential 3/6 matchup with Purdue looms, but Xavier makes this region as a 2 seed while Virginia comes in as the 1 seed.

SB Nation"s Chris Dobbertean puts the Cats in the East Region with Purdue as the 5 seed and Villanova as the 1 seed and North Carolina as the 2 seed.

The guys atBracket Matrix, who round up what every website and national outlet projects, has Kentucky registering an average of 4.00, meaning they"re pretty comfortably getting projected as a 4-seed. That number is down from the 3.84 average seeding UK got last week as it continues to look like the 4 seed is what the Cats are getting.

That is, unless some of those teams seeded ahead of them lose early in their respective conference tournaments this week.

Source: http://www.aseaofblue.com/2016/3/7/11172252/bracketology-roundup-kentucky-basketball-in-this-years-group-of-death

Continue Reading ..

Heisman winners Johnny Manziel, Robert Griffin III face uncertain NFL futures


Johnny Manziel CUT From Cleveland Browns

Johnny Manziel and Robert Griffin III

Johnny Manziel and Robert Griffin III

Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III throws a pass while warming up during Texans training camp with the Washington Redskins at the Bon Secours Training Center on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015, in Richmond, Va. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III throws a pass while warming up during Texans training camp with the Washington Redskins at the Bon Secours Training Center on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015, in ... more Photo: Brett Coomer, Staff Robert Griffin III, WashingtonOnce a franchise savior and 2012 Rookie of the Year, he was buried by coach Jay Gruden and was only active for one game this season. The former Heisman Trophy winner from Baylor has much to prove and figures to be motivated. But whether he can regain his rookie form and avoid injuries is another thing. Still, it could be a low-risk, high-reward move. less Robert Griffin III, WashingtonOnce a franchise savior and 2012 Rookie of the Year, he was buried by coach Jay Gruden and was only active for one game this season. The former Heisman Trophy winner from ... more Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle LOSER: Kirk CousinsThe Washington quarterback certainly didnt do anything to quiet the calls for the return of Robert Griffin III or Colt McCoy. Cousins was 21 for 31 for 196 yards and a touchdown, but he also threw two interceptions. That runs his updated tally of interceptions to 17 in 10 starts. less LOSER: Kirk CousinsThe Washington quarterback certainly didnt do anything to quiet the calls for the return of Robert Griffin III or Colt McCoy. Cousins was 21 for 31 for 196 yards and a touchdown, but ... more Photo: Patrick Semansky, Associated Press 27. Robert Griffin III, Redskins Perhaps the former Baylor star was too good too soon. Thanks to injuries and ineffectiveness, he"s hardly flashed anything resembling his rookie form the past two years, and his relationship with coach Jay Gruden has been rocky to say the least. less 27. Robert Griffin III, Redskins Perhaps the former Baylor star was too good too soon. Thanks to injuries and ineffectiveness, he"s hardly flashed anything resembling his rookie form the past two years, and his ... more Photo: Alex Brandon, Associated Press

Quarterback Robert Griffin III is examined after fumbling in Thursday night"s game against the Lions. He suffered a concussion and hurt his right shoulder.

Quarterback Robert Griffin III is examined after fumbling in Thursday night"s game against the Lions. He suffered a concussion and hurt his right shoulder.

Photo: Matt Hazlett, Stringer Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) stands with his niece Jania Griffin following practice during Washington Redskins training camp with the Houston Texans at the Bon Secours Training Center on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015, in Richmond, Va. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) stands with his niece Jania Griffin following practice during Washington Redskins training camp with the Houston Texans at the Bon Secours Training Center ... more Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

El quarterback de Cleveland, Johnny Manziel, pasa en un partido contra Arizona el domingo, 1 de noviembre de 2015, en Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)

El quarterback de Cleveland, Johnny Manziel, pasa en un partido contra Arizona el domingo, 1 de noviembre de 2015, en Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Johnny Manziel was in danger of having the Browns give up on him after two seasons even before his latest off-field incident came to light.

Johnny Manziel was in danger of having the Browns give up on him after two seasons even before his latest off-field incident came to light.

Photo: David Richard, FRE

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel walks into the locker room after an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel walks into the locker room after an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Photo: David Richard, FRE Johnny Manziel, Cleveland Given Manziel"s litany of off-field issues, it seems highly unlikely the next Browns coach and/or GM will want to tie his fortunes to the troubled former Texas A&M star. And given that his trade value figures to be highly low, he could be had for peanuts. But it"s unlikely the Texans will want to take a chance on another unreliable QB after the saga of Ryan Mallett and his alarm clock. less Johnny Manziel, ClevelandGiven Manziel"s litany of off-field issues, it seems highly unlikely the next Browns coach and/or GM will want to tie his fortunes to the troubled former Texas A&M star. And given ... more Photo: Smiley N. Pool, Houston Chronicle HOUSTON, TX- SEPTEMBER 07: Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin #10 III looks up at the scoreboard while playing against the Houston Texans on September 7, 2014 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Thomas B. Shea/Getty Images) less HOUSTON, TX- SEPTEMBER 07: Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin #10 III looks up at the scoreboard while playing against the Houston Texans on September 7, 2014 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. ... more Photo: Thomas B. Shea, Stringer

Heisman winners Johnny Manziel, Robert Griffin III face uncertain NFL futures

They were once Texas legends. They were celebrated Heisman Trophy winners who mesmerized with their strong arms and lightning-quick legs.

Now, Johnny Manziel and Robert Griffin III have suffered mighty falls in the NFL after their respective star turns at Texas A&M and Baylor. They"ve gone from being coveted celebrity athletes to joining the ranks of the unemployed.

Once celebrated to no longer being tolerated, Manziel was officially cut by the Cleveland Browns on Friday.

Manziel"s future employment prospects will be a thorny field for him to navigate. NFL teams understandably will be wary about signing him and giving him a chance to resurrect his career.

"I"d like to thank the Browns for the opportunity they gave me. Nearly two years ago, we all hoped that we were building what could be a championship team for Cleveland," Manziel said in a statement. "I will always remember the support I received from the organization, my teammates and especially the fans."

The future for Griffin is comparatively much brighter than Manziel"s. He visited with the New York Jets on Friday.

Manziel is a small, mobile, dual-threat quarterback who has flashed potential on the field. Off the field, Manziel is a disaster.

He has multiple known substance-abuse issues that prompted him to spend two months in an inpatient treatment facility last year. He remains under investigation for an alleged domestic violence incident in Dallas involving his former girlfriend Colleen Crowley, a Houston native and Texas Christian student. Manziel allegedly ruptured her left eardrum, the second time he has been alleged to have hit Crowley. The case is being presented to a grand jury for potential charges.

Meanwhile, the NFL is investigating Manziel under its personal-conduct policy. So, a suspension could be in the offing.

Manziel"s woes pile up

Manziel"s sobriety and mental health are in serious question. He threatened to kill Crowley and himself, according to her affidavit to law enforcement authorities. And his father, Paul, has expressed frustration that Manziel refuses to go back to a rehab facility.

Manziel"s rocky two-year tenure with the Browns only lasted this long because the Browns didn"t want to cut him earlier due to salary-cap implications.

Manziel, who signed a four-year, $8.254 million rookie contract in 2014 after being drafted with the 22nd pick of the first round, is unlikely to be claimed off waivers.

As much as Manziel has embarrassed the Browns off the field, including chugging champagne atop a swan float at an Austin nightclub and skipping or being late for team activities, his on-field performance hasn"t been sterling. He has gone 2-6 as a starter in two NFL seasons, passing for 1,675 yards, seven touchdowns and seven interceptions for a pedestrian 74.4 passer rating.

His NFL future is uncertain as most teams will be hesitant to bring this kind of baggage into their locker room. Once known as Johnny Football in College Station, Manziel has been Johnny Drama in the NFL.

Griffin was cut by Washington after a rough couple of seasons since being named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Griffin clashed with Mike Shanahan and Kyle Shanahan about his role in the offense. He spent this past year backing up Kirk Cousins.

As a rookie, Griffin passed for 3,200 yards, 20 touchdowns and five interceptions. For his career, Griffin has passed for 8,087 yards, 40 touchdowns and 23 interceptions for a 90.6 passer rating.

However, Griffin is widely viewed as damaged goods in NFL circles. Without his trademark mobility, Griffin isn"t enough of a pocket passer to lead a franchise. He also has drawn criticism for his ego and diva tendencies.

What"s known about Griffin, who appears sincerely humbled by his decline in status, is that he seems ready for a fresh start and would embrace another chance in a different NFL city.

Backup role?

At some point, Griffin is sure to resurface as long as he"s healthy and ready to accept being a backup.

Whether Manziel plays in the NFL again, though, is very much in doubt because of his pattern of misconduct.

Even while being investigated by Dallas police, Manziel continues his hard-partying ways with plenty of evidence on social media from Miami to Las Vegas that he hasn"t changed. The logical conclusion for any rational NFL franchise to reach is that Manziel isn"t a safe bet to invest in for a second act of a mercurial career.

Source: http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texans/article/Heisman-winners-Johnny-Manziel-Robert-Griffin-6884420.php

Continue Reading ..

Crowds Rush To "Zootopia", Visit "10 Cloverfield Lane" & Kneecap "Brothers Grimsby" Late Night Box Office Update


BORAT Premieres the New Trailer for “The Brothers Grimsby”

4TH WRITETHRU, 8AM Saturday:Refresh for updatesZootopia is showing more muscle than originally expected, so much so that its now cutting into10 Cloverfield Lanes business, $51M to $24.7M. Thetotal B.O.for the Disney original animated filmswells to $143M through 10 days, pacing 52% ahead of Frozenover the same period.This puts Paramount/Bad Robots spinoffat the lower end of its opening weekend projections.

The bright side here is that 10 Cloverfield Laneisnt expected to play like a horror film with shrinking tickets sales over three-days; rather the pics business is expected to spike by at least 5% on Saturday after making $9M on Friday. This despite the fact that CinemaScore crowds graded10 Cloverfield Lanelike a horror film with a B-, which beats the first chapters C grade. J.J. Abrams has mentioned in interviews that the title wasnt revealed until January. Thats when Paramount unveiled its enticing teaser campaign of John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and John Gallagher, Jr. residing in a bunker during a time when the alien monsters ruled the earth. The studio dropped a second trailer during the Super Bowl. Abrams has also said in interviews that 10 Cloverfield Laneis more akin to an anthology in theTwilight Zonesense of the word, versus being a sequel. Sixty-one percent males stopped by10 Cloverfield Lanewith 68% over 25. Fifty-five percent came out because it was a sci-fi thriller.

Meanwhile, Sony/Village Roadshow/LStarsThe Brothers Grimsbyis Sacha Baron Cohens lowest opening at the box office ever with $3.3M at 2,235 in eighth place, a complete dud with an estimated production cost of$35M-$37M (though we hear the budget was north $80M when Paramount passed). Oy. Audiences didnt entirely hate the R-rated comedywith a B+ CinemaScore overall and an A- among under 25ers. But, man, where were they? At Foxs Deadpool, of course,which is sitting there like a cat with a canary in its mouth, still bagging cash with a strong $10.4M fifth weekend in third place and a running domestic total of $327.7M.

Focus Features Christ childhood titleThe Young Messiahreceived the best grade of the wide entries with an A-, but its estimated opening is nothing miraculous at $3.7M-$3.8M. Like most faith-based movies, older females was the core crowd here at 57% women, 91% over 25. Focus shelled out a minimum guarantee for the film, however, Young Messiahwas financed by Ocean Blue Entertainment, which slashed the films production budgetfrom $40M to an estimated $18.5M. In regards to throwing stones at this films ticket sales, we have to consider thatYoung Messiahis in 1,154 theater less thanRisens first weekend. In addition, this Lent season in particular has been flooded with faith-based product, and despite any assumption that the audience just eats up whatever is placed in front of them, the fact is these parish busloads have become more discerning about whats placed in front of them. In addition, word is the faith-based are saving their money for next weekends Sony Affirm follow-upMiracles From Heaven,which is scheduled to hit 3,000-plus engagements.

LionsgatesThe Perfect Matchdidnt officially register on CinemaScores radar since it was playing in less than 1,000 theaters, but the African American comedy is also coming in under expectations with an estimated $3.7M-$3.8M FSS, fighting withYoung Messiahfor sixth place.

****Brothers Grimsby what happened here?****

Observing from their perch outside the studio walls, rival distribution chiefs believe that Sony dumped Brothers Grimsbyin the market, however, Sony tried to nurture this along the way with release date changes and testing.Grimsbyoriginated at Paramount in December 2013 withClash of the Titansdirector Louis Leterrier attached before Sonys previous administration acquired the title in February 2014 with an original release date of July 31, 2015. Test screenings for this Baron Cohen raunch romp started early and audiences werent kind during every bump along the way. Grimsbywasnt the witty satire they loved inBorat.Whats telling here, and explains is a lot, is that Baron Cohens core audience has grown significantly older since The Dictator. That film played to an under-25 audience of 56% versusBrothers Grimsbywhich skewed 72% over 25.Sony screened to50 campuses across the country and Brothers Grimsbyjust didnt penetrate with younger audiences.Also less guys turned out forBrothers Grimsby overDictator, 52% to 65%.Forty percent of Friday nights audience came out for Baron Cohen (vs.Dictators 47%).

Additionally, it felt like the marketing campaign didnt have a long enough lead time. Arguably, Brothers Grimsbydidnt really land in the public consciousness until Baron Cohen appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live with his too-crude-for-broadcast clip all ofone month ago. Compare this to Paramounts runway forThe Dictatorin 2012. Even though that R-rated comedy had a May 16 release, Baron Cohen started an awesome uproar at the Oscars that year with his General Aladeen alter ego and his supposed boycott by the Academy. More headlines were heard around the world as the General dumped Kim Jong Ils ashes on Ryan Seacrest, and was kicked off the red carpet. In addition, Paramount also had aDictatoradult game app. This resulted in athird place opening for Dictatorwith $17.4M (final $60M) in the wake ofThe Avengersthird weekend, and UniversalsBattleship. Twothings you can never knock Baron Cohen for: Hes a master of guerrilla theater PR and hes a tireless promoter. Even onBrothers Grimsby, I hear Baron Cohen was a studios dream when it came to star collaborators. During the college tour ofBrothers Grimsby,he mingled with students in New York, Boston and Austin. As is typical for Baron Cohen, he did some interviews in character as Nobby. Even handcuffed himself to Matt Lauer.

Downsides to Brothers Grimsbys marketing efforts is that the one sheets and billboards looked like rip offs on Adam McKaysThe Other Guysand even SonysSpectre.The title is so British, its alienating to U.S. auds, and Mark Strong as second banana to Baron Cohen isnt known for his marquee power. The conceit of the movie looks funny, but on a mass consumption basis, theres a been-there-done-that to the elements, criticized one studio marketing executive who has handled Baron Cohen vehicles in the past. According to iSpot, Sony shelled out $7.7M this weekend forBrothers GrimsbyTV spots, while Paramount spent $16.3M for10 Cloverfield Laneads.

That said, what was clever about Sonys online/social media campaign was how it built off the audience reaction gimmick that began onJimmy Kimmel Live(4.1M YouTube views).Sony just kept hitting this joke in its viral marketing. They posted video reactions to the elephant scene from pastors and rabbis (1M YouTube views), fashion model Cara Delevingne (439K), the Kardashians (420K on Kims Instagram, 255K on Kourtneys), Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron on the set ofBaywatch(371K Instagram likes), Pharrell (48K likes) and The Lonely Island guys (8K likes). In total, two dozen social media influencers participated.

But still, why did 20th Century FoxsBoratwork as an overnight success with a $26.4M opening at 837 theaters (a $32K per theater, global take of $262M) and everything else just gradually slid downhill for Baron Cohens comedic solo vehicles? Borat succeeded because it was a stroke of genius that was never seen before, said one studio executive. It was shock theater. It was horribly offensive, rightfully funny to most. Then cameBrunowhich opened to No. 1 in July 2009 to a decent $30.6M, but petered out to a 2x multiple at the domestic B.O. with $60M.

Added the same executive, Brunowas more of the same shtick. Even though it was a different character, he wasnt nearly as charming as Borat, and his effeminate bent was off-putting to audiences. There was a meanness to Bruno that wasnt as far reaching. In Borat, Baron Cohenwas an equal-opportunist in his insulting. Then when he started doing the scripted material like The Dictator, it was as though it was the same guy.

Some rival distribution chiefsthink that Baron Cohens dirty sense of humor has grown too long-in-the-tooth for the big screen. Still, you cant take away the fact that hes a brilliant, multi-talented actor who continues to be in demand by auteurs for his sublime acting chops. Baron Cohen next appears in James BobinsAlice Through the Looking Glassas Time. Talking to Deadline during his press tour forLes Miserables,Baron Cohen spoke about the hurdles in pulling off docu-comedies like Boratin this day and age, and why he changed to script-driven material likeDictatorandBrothers Grimsby:The problem is it is definitely challenging, especially now with Twitter and Facebook. Its very, very hard to get away with, he said. You dont just want to interview some doorman at a hotel; you want to interview the incredibly wealthy guests at the penthouse, high-ranking politicians or people who are threatening.

The top 10 films as of late late Friday night per industry estimates for weekend of March 11-13:

1).Zootopia(DIS), 3,827 theaters (0)/ $12.5M Fri. (-36%)/ 3-day cume:$51M/Total Cume: $143M/Wk 2

2).10 Cloverfield Lane(PAR), 3,391 theaters/ $9M Fri. / 3-day cume:$24.7M/Wk 1

3).Deadpool(FOX), 3,331 theaters (-293) / $2.9M Fri. (-38%) / 3-day cume:$10.4M(-38%)/Total Cume: $327.7M/Wk 5

4).London Has Fallen(FOC), 3,492 theaters (+2)/ $3M Fri. (-60%)/ 3-day cume:$10.3M(-52%)/Total Cume:$38.5M/Wk 2

5).Whiskey Tango Foxtrot(PAR), 2,413 theaters (+39)/ $1.3M Fri. (-45%) / 3-day cume:$4.55M (-39%)/Total Cume:$14.5M/Wk 2

6) The Young Messiah(FOC), 1,761 theaters/ $1.3M Fri. / 3-day cume:$3.7M-$3.8M/Wk 1

The Perfect Match(LG), 3,391 theaters/ $1.35M Fri. / 3-day cume:$3.7M-$3.8M/Wk 1

8.) The Brothers Grimsby(SONY), 2,235 theaters/ $1.2M Fri. / 3-day cume:$3.3M/Wk 1

9).Gods of Egypt (LG), 2,306 theaters (-811)/ $622k Fri. (-52%) / 3-day cume:$2.3M(-56%)/Total cume: $27.1M/ Wk 3

10).Risen(SONY), 2,095 theaters (-412) / $629K Fri. (-41%) / 3-day cume:$2.27M(-42%) / Total cume: $32.37M / Wk 4

NOTABLES:

Spotlight(OR), 847 theaters (-380) / $220K Fri. (-54%) / 3-day cume:$817k (-54%) / Total cume: $43.1M / Wk 19

Love Punjab(WHP), 36 theaters/ $100k Fri. / 3-day cume:$308k/Wk 1

Eye in the Sky(BLST), 5 theaters/ $30k Fri. / 3-day cume:$93k/PTA: $19k/Wk 1

Knight of Cups(BROAD), 36 theaters (+32)/ $26K Fri. (+27%) / 3-day cume:$85K (+40%)/Total: $171K/Wk 2

Hello, My Name Is Doris(RSA), 4 theaters/ $22K Fri. / 3-day cume:$69K/PTA: $17K/Wk 1

City of Gold(IFC), 4 theaters/ $16k Fri. / 3-day cume:$50k/PTA: $12k/Wk 1

2ND UPDATE, 12:12PM Zootopiaand10 Cloverfield Laneare the two top travel destinations for moviegoers this weekend. Disneys animated film is looking to collect in the high $40M range, while Paramount/Bad Robots thriller is looking at $32M. Both titles respective Friday hauls are currently $500K apart, $12M to $11.5M. The box office business theory never gets old: matinees will continually be a family titles best friend.

On social, Relish Mix reports that#10CloverfieldLane led the run-up to opening with 2K combined hashtags across Twitter and Instagram. The social media monitor notices that the conversation has been positive for the movie with mentions of producer J.J. Abrams as well as predictions on what the monster might look like. Other fans are curious as to what might lie outside the bunker. The good word of mouth counters any hurdle of the casts low wattage on social media. Nonethless, star Mary Elizabeth Winstead leads the charge with 663K social followers across Twitter, Instagram and an unofficial Facebook page. In addition, the endorsements by Chris Hardwick and Amy Schumer have been shared across Twitter. Trailers have pulled in 20.9M YouTube views, while the Super Bowl teaser counts 11.3M views on the films Facebook page.

Meanwhile, Gramercy/Focus FeaturesLondon Has Fallenis looking at a second weekend between $10M-$12M. This would raise its 10-day cume to $38M-$40M. Meanwhile, Lionsgates romantic comedyThe Perfect Matchat 925 venues looks to be beating the rest of the wide release competition with a FSS of $5M, pegging ahead of Focus Features Young Messiahwith an estimated $3.75M and Sony/Village Roadshow/LStar Capitals Sacha Baron Cohen comedyThe Brothers Grimsbyat$3.5M (ouch). Typically when it comes to an R-rated comedy at this time of year, matinees are null. Its during the wee hours of the night that the prime twentysomething demo comes out.

1ST UPDATE, 8AM:Paramount reports that Bad Robots10 Cloverfield Lanerang up $1.8M at 2,500 theaters. Pic is expected to move to 3,391 locations today with a projected FSS between $25M-$30M. 10 Cloverfield Lanes Thursdaybeats the $1.5M preview night cash ofSuper 8which went on to open to $35.5M. In addition, it outstrips the $1.02M Thursday night grossed by Universals horror thrillerThe Visit,which opened to $25.4M back in September. 10 Cloverfield Laneis a spinoff to 2008s monster movieCloverfield,which was an MLK holiday hit with a $40M opening and final cume of $80M.Currently,10 Cloverfield Laneis charting a 91% fresh Rotten Tomatoes rating, and its something clever to behold. Itsnot just some Godzilla-like sequel. John Goodman and Mary Elizabeth Winstead are receiving high praise for their respective portrayals of an apocalypse fanatic and a car accident victim in rural Louisiana.

Outside of previews, among regularly ranked films, DisneysZootopiaranked first on Thursday with $3.88M taking its first weeks cume to $92.6M. Many expectZootopiato hold No. 1 again with a $38M-$45M second frame.

Focus FeaturesThe Young Messiahtook in $475K last night at 1,300 locations. Industry projections are at $7M-$8M for this faith-based title which follows a year in the childhood of Jesus Christ. In spreading the word about The Young Messiah, directorCyrus Nowrasteh spoke at a number of religious conferences including the National Religious Broadcasters convention in Nashville, Tenn. Producer Chris Columbus, director of the first twoHarry Potterfilms, has also been banging the drum for the movie in TV and radio interviews, including an appearance onThe Today Show.Theres also been a number of local premieres for the movie hosted by churches, local faith leaders and community groups around the country.

Sony/Village Roadshow/L Star CapitalsThe Brothers Grimsbygot the short end of the stick last night with $235K at 1,937 theaters. Heres hoping that the10 Cloverfield Lanecrowd finds this hysterical R-rated comedy after getting their fill of J.J. Abrams- sci-fi spinoff production.The Brothers Grimsbyis expected to make $7M-$8M this weekend. Currently,Brothers Grimsbyhas a 43% Rotten Tomatoes score, but then again, its quite hard for critics to swallow gross out films and this one has more than its fair share of an elephant co-starring in it. The British action comedy, directed by Louis Leterrier, has already logged more than $7M at the overseas box office.

Also in play this weekend among wide entries is Lionsgates African American romantic comedyThe Perfect Matchwhich is projected to post a FSS between $5M-$6M.

Source: http://deadline.com/2016/03/10-cloverfield-lane-brothers-grimsby-zootopia-weekend-box-office-1201718537/

Continue Reading ..

How Captain America: Civil War Star Sebastian Stan Felt Watching The Movie For The First Time


New Captain America: Civil War Stills Feature Spider-Man, Black Panther, More - IGN News
One of the most highly anticipated movies of 2016 is the upcoming superhero ensemble piece Captain America: Civil War. After building a universe and lineup of heroes over the course of eight years, well now be able to see all the superpowered individuals duke it out amongst themselves. Hype for Civil War only increased with both trailers for the film, which gave us just enough of a tease, without giving away too much. But now the question is: how good will the film actually be?

Much of the conflict in Civil War revolves around Captain America (Chris Evans) and his relationship and loyalty to his former best friend Bucky aka The Winter Soldier, played by Sebastian Stan. Stan recently spoke out regarding his reaction to seeing Civil War for the first time, saying:

I sat there and basically there was a bowl of candy and fruit and gum in front of me and then there were sparkling waters and I basically sat on the edge of my couch the entire time and ate through the entire bowl of candy. I was overly stimulated with this movie, which Im so proud to be in because everyone is f*****g awesome in it. Everyone is f*****g fantastic. I walked out of it speechless, and I worked on the movie and I was there! I walked out of there and I had back pain from leaning.

Well, thats a glowing review to say the least. Bowl of candy aside, Sebastian Stans comment seems to tell us a something about the upcoming third chapter of the Captain America franchise.

Not that is is a huge surprise, but it seems like were going to be getting a ton of action during Civil War. We all knew that there was going to be a giant super powered battle at the climax of the film, including the brand spankin new Spider-Man, but now it seems that the fighting and battles will be pretty consistent throughout. In order to keep Sebastian Stan, who worked on the project, at the edge of his seat then things must be pretty wild. Considering that Captain America: Civil War has a pretty long runtime of 2 hours and 26 minutes, something big has to happen in order to keep the audiences attention for so long.

Of course, given how epic the newest trailer is, I doubt Ill be bored at anytime throughout the new film. Check it out.

Just like Sebastian Stan said, this movie looks pretty action-packed. So get your bowl of candy and prepare for some minor back problems, because the Civil War is going to be intense.

Captain America: Civil War flies into theaters May 6th, 2016.

Blended From Around The Web

Comments

Source: http://www.cinemablend.com/new/How-Captain-America-Civil-War-Star-Sebastian-Stan-Felt-Watching-Movie-First-Time-118057.html

Continue Reading ..

Keith Emerson of Emerson, Lake & Palmer dead at 71


Keith Emerson Band - Tarkus

Emerson died Thursday night in his home in Santa Monica, California, at age 71, the statement said.

"Keith Emerson"s death is currently being investigated as a suicide," said Sgt. Erika Aklufi of the Santa Monica Police Department.

ELP drummer Carl Palmer confirmed the death of his longtime band mate.

"Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance as a keyboard player will remain unmatched for many years to come. He was a pioneer and an innovator whose musical genius touched all of us in the worlds of rock, classical and jazz," Palmer said in a statement on social media.

"I will always remember his warm smile, good sense of humor, compelling showmanship, and dedication to his musical craft. I am very lucky to have known him and to have made the music we did, together. Rest in peace, Keith."

Emerson, Lake & Palmer was progressive rock"s first supergroup, according to Billboard. They achieved critical and commercial success with their instrumental prowess and thrilled live audiences with stage antics that often included pyrotechnics.

Emerson was widely considered one of the greatest keyboardists of his generation, fusing rock music with classical and jazz influences, first as a member of The Nice and then with ELP. He was one of the first musicians to experiment with the Moog synthesizer; his showmanship on the Moog, Hammond organ and piano became an integral component of the trio"s performances.

Born on November 1, 1944, in the English town of Todmorden, Emerson was classically trained on the piano as a child and started his career playing R&B. He moved to London in his late teens and joined the band V.I.P."s. He played with Gary Farr and the T-Bones, backing T-Bone Walker before forming The Nice, which got its big break backing soul singer P.P. Arnold.

Emerson started talking to Greg Lake, a founding member of King Crimson, about playing together in late 1969 when their bands shared a bill at the Fillmore West, according to Billboard. The two joined forces in 1970, becoming Emerson, Lake & Palmer after recruiting Palmer, a veteran of the Crazy World of Arthur Brown and Atomic Rooster.

ELP released nine albums, the first five of which reached the Billboard 200"s top 10. Their 1970 self-titled debut included the hit single "Lucky Man" and became an instant classic.

The follow-up, 1971"s Tarkus, "solidified their popularity and distinctive sound -- instrumentally complicated yet sonically cohesive prog-rock mixing classical structures, improvisational jazz and electronics," according to Billboard.

After ELP broke up in 1979, Emerson and Lake continued with a new drummer as Emerson, Lake & Powell. The original trio reunited in the early 1990s to release two more albums.

In addition to his time with ELP, Emerson"s career included solo albums and film scores, such as Dario Argento"s 1980 horror film "Inferno" and the 1981 Sylvester Stallone thriller "Nighthawks."

CNN"s Artemis Moshtaghian contributed to this report.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/11/entertainment/keith-emerson-dies-feat/

Continue Reading ..

John Stamos Debuts New Girlfriend, Takes Another Slap Shot at the Olsen Twins


Caitlin McHugh, The Vampire Diaries Comic Con 2015

John Stamos took a break from his taxing schedule of filming Grandfathered andtasting ice cream with his new girlfriend, model Caitlin McHugh, to share anotherOlsen twin barb.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Evidently, like the rest of us, John still can"t get over the fact that Mary-Kate and Ashley are too busy running a fashion empire to swing by the set of Fuller House.

While emceeing theAlliance for Children"s Rights annual fundraiser, he playfully said,"My whole career is based on helping children. Ask the Olsen twins, if you can find them and all their money."

Stamos, 52, jokingly added, "If you do find them, tell them I got a second seasonofFuller House."

Okay, we get it John. You"re a man scorned, but in the immortal words of Elsa, it"s time to make like an ice queen and "let it go."

Source: http://www.redbookmag.com/life/news/a43046/john-stamos-girlfriend-olsen-twin-dig/

Continue Reading ..