Latest news with #AppleTVPlus
Gizmodo
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
Britt Lower's ‘Severance' Audition Tape Proves Her Helly R. Was Meant to Be
Long before Severance became a TV obsession, when the Apple TV+ series was still being cast, an actor taped an audition scene for one of the show's most complex and crucial roles. That clip has been released, and it's incredible to see how the performer's initial instincts for and interpretation of the character carried over almost note-perfectly into the show itself. Though viewers were first lured in by big names like Adam Scott, Christopher Walken, Patricia Arquette, and John Turturro, Severance's lesser-known stars soon established their talents. That includes Britt Lower, an instant fan favorite for her turn as the wry, intelligent, desperately unhappy Helly R. across season one—and in season two, for which she's now Emmy-nominated, her expansion of that role with the other side of the character's brain, the slippery enigma Helena Eagan. The Hollywood Reporter shared Lower's Severance audition tape from 2019. The self-made clip features a searing performance of the series' very first scene, in which we're introduced to not just the very confused, freshly awakened consciousness of Helly R., but also the very odd onboarding process at Lumon—a company we'll soon learn does everything very weirdly and mysteriously. Helly R. doesn't know where she is, why she's there, or even who she really is, for that matter. Even at this very early stage, Lower plays the mix of confusion, fear, and hostility perfectly. Lower told THR the Severance script was 'the best one I'd ever read,' and even though her agent said she was a 'long shot' for the part, she dug in, enlisted a friend to read the offscreen Mark S. dialogue in the scene, and determined the bathroom in her house had the best lighting. It was also a confined space—much smaller than what Severance ended up showing us with that conference room when Helly R. wakes up on the table, but suitable for creating that feeling of being trapped in a strange environment. 'My approach to making self-tapes is like, this is a chance for me to show them what I would do if they chose me to play this role,' Lower explained. 'And almost like you've shown up to set early, and the director and the DP, and everybody's late, and they just want you to film it on your own. Like, show us what you would do.' Clearly, it worked out, and the rest is history; after watching the scene, you'll have even more difficulty than you already would have picturing anyone else playing Helly R. Head to THR to watch the embedded video, and join us in appealing to the TV gods to unearth Tramell Tillman's audition tape for Mr. Milchick, if such a thing exists. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Tom's Guide
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
'Smoke' series finale — Jurnee Smollett and Dennis Lehane talk about the show's fiery ending
"Smoke" joined a long line of thrilling Apple TV Plus miniseries when it debuted back in June. Now, after nine episodes, the show has come to its end with the series finale "Mirror Mirror," and much like other episodes in the crime drama, it didn't lack for shocking moments and surprising twists. Earlier in the year, I sat down with both show star Jurnee Smollett and showrunner Dennis Lehane to discuss the nine-episode miniseries and its explosive conclusion, and now I can finally reveal what we discussed. Obviously, there are some major spoilers ahead. So if you haven't seen the show or its series finale yet, boot up Apple TV Plus and come back once you've finished "Smoke." If you've seen the entire nine-episode run of "Smoke," then you know that the show kicks off with a twist. At the end of the two-episode premiere, it's revealed that Taron Egerton's Dave Gudsen is not only chasing the show's serial arsonist — he is the serial arsonist. I thought it was such a cool twist. An unexpected twist. I immediately had all the questions — and Dennis Lehane had all the answers for it. And then to see the transformation — the hair and makeup team did such a phenomenal job. It's not long before his partner, Calderone (Smollett), discovers Gudsen is her suspect, and by the end of a fiery showdown in a raging forest fire, she's got her man. But in the subsequent interrogation, we learn that Gudsen doesn't look like Egerton — he's projected a heroic persona onto himself, and we only get a brief look at his real appearance before the mask comes back on. "I thought it was such a cool twist," Smollett told me when I asked her about the reveal of Gudsen's true appearance. "An unexpected twist. [I] immediately had all the questions — and Dennis [Lehane] had all the answers for it. And then to see the transformation — the hair and makeup team did such a phenomenal job. It didn't feel like makeup. It felt very real." Like us, she didn't know to expect this shocking reveal right away. "I learned it maybe like midway through shooting the show," she told me when I asked her about it. So it wasn't just us that got a shocking reveal. This wasn't the only shocking twist over the nine episodes that had Smollett excited, though. When I asked her about killing her boss in the penultimate episode, she lit up. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. "I was shocked! I was shocked," she told me, so excited about her character's big moment she couldn't help but laugh. "I was so excited. [Laughs] Maybe that says a little too much about me, but I thought it was a real cool idea and shocking. My jaw was on the floor." This twist, admittedly, she knew early on in filming, as opposed to Gudsen's physical transformation. "I knew it pretty early on. Dennis told me before we even started shooting — where the show was heading. And I loved it. Because it's so unexpected, but not, because they're in such a toxic relationship and such a toxic dynamic." When I asked showrunner Dennis Lehane about his decision to give Gudsen a split personality in "Smoke," he pushed back on the use of that specific descriptor. "I don't know if I'd call that split personality," he clarified. "I would call that projection. He sees himself one way and the world sees him another way. It's all about running from yourself. That's one of the big things about Dave from the beginning: You put the proof in front of me, I'm not going to see it. You put the mirror in front of me, I'm going to see what I project onto it." But it's not just Dave that's being held up to a mirror — he's also a mirror for a real-life serial arsonist, John Leonard Orr, perhaps the most prolific serial arsonist in U.S. history. "Orr had plenty of the characteristics that Dave Gudsen has," Lehane explained to me. "And he was so completely in denial of who he was. Just 100%. He literally took it so far as to write a book, (Gudsen is also writing a book in "Smoke") in which he — in some ways — confessed to a whole bunch of crimes. And yet he [Orr] said, 'No, that was just fiction.'" Gudsen's not the show's only serial arsonist that Calderone and Gudsen are tracking, though. Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine plays Freddy Fasano, another serial arsonist operating in Umberland, and he's not based on someone that was inherently a rival of Orr's, so I wanted to ask Lehane about the choice to give Gudsen a foil. "One of the things you see in Dave Gudsen and in John Orr is this white victimization complex," Lehane explained when I asked about Freddy. "This 'Oh, they've given everything to the special interests' and 'White people have no more advantages in society.' Which is just complete and utter horseshit." The real-life inspiration for Freddy immediately jumped out at Lehane as a counternarrative to the "white victimization complex" he associates with Orr and Gudsen. "When I read about the actual arsonist that inspired Freddy, he continued, "I said 'Wow.' That's somebody who literally has no education, no family, he's the wrong color in the wrong country at the wrong time. His education was shit. So he's foisted out into society at 18 years old and he's expected to function. And it didn't work out well for the real guy, and it doesn't work out real well for Freddy." If you haven't already seen how it doesn't work out for Freddy — or Gudsen, for that matter — go check out all nine episodes of "Smoke" on Apple TV Plus now. Then, check out our guide to the 31 best Apple TV Plus shows to stream on the streaming service right now. Stream "Smoke" on Apple TV Plus Malcolm has been with Tom's Guide since 2022, and has been covering the latest in streaming shows and movies since 2023. He's not one to shy away from a hot take, including that "John Wick" is one of the four greatest films ever made. Here's what he's been watching lately:
Arab News
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
‘Platonic' season 2 — bigger laughs and deeper truths about friendship
DUBAI: Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne are back in 'Platonic,' and the first three episodes of season two prove that their non-romantic chemistry remains the show's not-so-secret weapon. The pair's easy banter and instinctive comic timing once again anchor a series that takes the madcap energy of season one and parlays it into a more nuanced, heartfelt exploration of adult friendship. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ The sophomore season of the Apple TV+ series opens with a major update in Will's (Rogen) life — an engagement to a woman Sylvia (Byrne) doesn't have a connection with. It's an awkward adjustment for both, as their once effortless dynamic is suddenly subject to the gravitational pull of a third party. The early episodes mine this setup for all its comic potential — from misguided attempts at bonding to not-so-subtle turf wars over who knows Will best, and a bachelor party that goes sideways quick. The jokes are bigger, the hijinks just as outrageous, but there's an added undercurrent of mature self-awareness that keeps the series from depending on laughs alone. Byrne's Sylvia continues to be one of TV's most relatable depictions of mid-life contradictions. She's a housewife and mother, but still clinging to the 'cool girl' identity she once wore so easily. Her adventures with Will allow her to sidestep the mundanity of domestic life, even if they occasionally leave her with more to clean up — figuratively and literally. Byrne plays her with the perfect mix of warmth, femininity and clownery. Rogen, meanwhile, tempers his trademark goofiness with shades of vulnerability. Will's excitement over his engagement is genuine, but so is his anxiety over how it might change the friendship that's been his emotional constant. His scenes with Byrne shimmer with an authenticity that makes their friendship feel lived-in, not manufactured for the camera. Through it all, 'Platonic' remains breezy, smart and devilishly funny. Season two doesn't just retread the antics of its debut run — it builds on them, delivering sharper humor and a richer look at what it means to keep a friendship alive as life pulls you in different directions. If these first episodes are any indication, Rogen and Byrne's love story — platonic though it is — might just be one of the best on TV.
Tom's Guide
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
Apple TV Plus's new historical drama is the best show you're (probably) not watching — and it's 93% on Rotten Tomatoes
I appreciate everyone's probably busy streaming the likes of "Wednesday" and "Alien: Earth" right now, but I have another show I want to shout about: Apple TV Plus' new epic historical drama, "Chief of War." Pitched as a passion project for co-creators Thomas Pa'a Sibbett and Jason Momoa, the series is a dramatic look back at Hawaiian history, and has even invited comparisons to Hulu's own acclaimed epic, "Shogun." I've been looking forward to "Chief of War" ever since the teaser trailer dropped back in May. At the time of writing, we're now three episodes into the season, and I'm pleased to report that I am totally locked in on the series so far. Save for a couple of breakout hits ("Severance", "Ted Lasso", "Slow Horses"), Apple TV Plus is home to plenty of underseen shows, and I don't want "Chief of War" to be one of them. So if this is the first time you're hearing about "Chief of War", here's a little bit more info about the new show, and why I think you should stream "Chief of War" on Apple TV Plus now. "Chief of War" is based-on-true-events drama about the origins of Hawai'i and its people, one that recounts the unification and colonisation of the region at the turn of the 18th century. Try Apple TV Plus free for seven days! Try Apple TV Plus free for one week and sample episodes of "Chief of War" and much, much more. The series follows warrior Ka'iana (Jason Momoa) as he sets out to unite his homeland in the midst of a fearsome power struggle that erupts between the four kingdoms. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. The series is performed by a predominantly Polynesian cast, which, alongside Momoa, also features Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Cliff Curtis, Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale'o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka, Te Kohe Tuhaka, and Benjamin Hoetjes. "Chief of War" is an impressively realized story that I have both been gripped by and that I've relished getting lost in. So far, it has proven to be a series with intrigue and serious forward momentum. Easily the show's biggest boon is not its beautiful scenery or its drama, but Momoa himself. He is turning in what I think is his most impressive performance to date. If you crave action, "Chief of War" is most definitely for you. It's brutal brawls and chases have been captivating showcases of both sheer brawn, but also of a steady hand behind the camera, thanks to both the physical prowess on display, and the cinematic staging the series boasts. Easily the show's biggest boon is not its beautiful scenery or its drama, but Momoa himself. As the multi-hyphenate co-creator, exec producer, director, and star at the center of the show, he's more than successful. The show's assured, and he is turning in what I think is his most impressive performance to date. I'm judging the series without seeing the entire season, but what I've seen of "Chief of War" so far has me impatiently waiting for Fridays to roll around just to see where we go next. It's immersive, gripping television. It's not just me who recommends "Chief of War," either: the series currently holds a 93% score on the review aggregator, Rotten Tomatoes, with a consensus that reads: "Starring Jason Momoa at his ferocious best, "Chief of War" is a brutal epic that recreates Native Hawaiian history with commendable authenticity." In his 3-star review of the season, Empire critic David Opie conceded that the 'plotting somewhat meanders' and that the show 'feels admirable but with something still to prove,' but nevertheless praises the commitment to authenticity and the 'grandiose battles'. Variety's Aramide Tinubu praises the show as "a majestic and immersive story about rebels, home and allegiance" and highlights the series' "highly textured" feel from the costumes and dialogue through to its visuals. Bottom line: if you're looking to be swept up in a bold new drama, one that boasts compelling characters and truly thrilling combat, then you need to stream "Chief of War" on Apple TV Plus. At the time of publication, four episodes are available, with the remaining five set to air on Fridays through to the series finale on September 19. Already streaming "Chief of War," or looking to make the most of your Apple TV Plus subscription? Check out our guide to the best shows on Apple TV Plus for tons more streaming suggestions. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Tom's Guide
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
Adam Scott just revealed how long 'Severance' takes to film — and that could be bad news for season 3
At this point, we've been conditioned to wait a long time for "Severance" episodes. The sci-fi thriller debuted on Apple TV Plus on Feb. 18, 2022 ... and then it took another 35 months to get the season premiere of "Severance" season 2. Last month, when I wrote about Apple TV Plus head of programming Matt Cherniss signaling that season 3 could be over a year away, people were bummed, but not exactly shocked. But now we have a clearer picture of why it takes so long for new "Severance" episodes to be made. On yesterday's (Aug. 12) episode of the podcast "Good Hang with Amy Poehler," her former "Parks and Recreation" co-star, and star of "Severance," Adam Scott, sat down with her and revealed just how long it takes to film an episode of the Emmy-nominated show. "Well, it depends," Scott told his former TV wife when asked about how long it takes to film a single episode of the show. "It's long. Season 2, I think it was 186 days for the season. Which is a long time." Scott then broke it down further. "I think one episode took like six weeks and then it's averaged out because we shoot them three at a time, all mixed up together." Season 1 took even longer to film. "Season 1," Scott elaborated, "we shot the entire thing at once. So like, in month nine, we were still shooting scenes from the first episode." Still, Scott believes that this approach to filming multiple episodes at a time works to the benefit of Apple's acclaimed drama. "The accidental thing that that did," he said, referring to season 1, specifically, "You know the first few episodes of any show are a little shaky and everyone is finding their tone a little bit or their characters or whatever? It spread that out over the entire season. So it kind of felt, more or less, fully realized." Scott now joins a long list of people hammering home the point that this show takes a long time to make. Weeks-long shoots for a single episode — half a year spent filming season 2 alone — mean that annual season premieres just aren't feasible. To be fair, nobody has been promising a quick turnaround. Back in March, executive producer Ben Stiller told the ITV morning show "This Morning" that "Severance" season 3 is coming "as fast as possible," but not that it'd be here any time soon. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 7 day free trial! Apple TV Plus gives you access to amazing originals with exciting new shows dropping all summer long. That timeline gets especially drawn out when filming hasn't even started. In his comments last month, Cherniss said that production had yet to begin on "Severance" season 3, meaning if they started filming today, they probably wouldn't even be done filming the next season of the show until the end of winter in 2026. There, admittedly, has been some mixed messaging on that front. While Cherniss says production hasn't started, in January, Stiller gave a production update on season 3 and revealed that the show's creative team was already working on the new season. A month later, in February, Stiller repeated his claim that "Severance" was already back in production, right before Apple officially greenlit season 3. It's entirely possible this is just a case of Cherniss meaning "filming" when he says production, and Stiller referring to the early pre-production work, including writing scripts. If that's the case, both of them are probably telling the truth. But regardless, I can't imagine this show entering post-production until mid-2026, at which point Apple probably holds season 3 for a January or February Apple TV Plus release date in 2027, just like it did for season 1 in 2022 and season 2 in 2025. Malcolm has been with Tom's Guide since 2022, and has been covering the latest in streaming shows and movies since 2023. He's not one to shy away from a hot take, including that "John Wick" is one of the four greatest films ever made. Here's what he's been watching lately: Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
