Farrell’s Golden Globe 2025 glory

Farrell's Golden Globe glory

Farrell's Golden Globe glory

Colin Farrell claimed his third Golden Globe victory at the 2025 awards ceremony on Sunday night, winning Best Male Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for his portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot in THE PENGUIN.

The Max series features Farrell reprising his role as the notorious Gotham gangster, a character he first brought to life in Matt Reeves’s 2022 film THE BATMAN. His transformation into the iconic villain required an extensive three-hour daily makeup process.

During his acceptance speech, Farrell playfully quipped, “No one to thank on this one. I did it all by myself… Just a raw, paired away performance.” He then acknowledged makeup artist Michael Marino, who designed the Penguin’s distinctive look, and praised his “extraordinary” team.

Describing his morning routine in the makeup chair, Farrell shared, “I drank black coffee, listened to ’80s music, and I became a canvas for that team’s brilliance.” He concluded his speech with a humorous observation about his future career path: “I guess it’s prosthetics for here on out.”

OUTLANDER’S final season wraps filming

Catriona Balfe in OUTLANDER Season 8

Catriona Balfe in OUTLANDER Season 8

BELFAST star Caitríona Balfe rose to international fame through her starring role in the STARZ historical drama series OUTLANDER, which premiered in 2014. In the series, Balfe portrays Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who mysteriously travels back in time to 1743 Scotland. Her character becomes romantically involved with Highland warrior Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan), and together they navigate the historical turmoil of the Jacobite risings.

Based on Diana Gabaldon’s novel series, OUTLANDER has become Balfe’s defining television role. The series’ seventh season, adapted from AN ECHO IN THE BONE, is currently airing on STARZ, having premiered in June 2023. The second half of Season 7 began airing on November 22, 2024, with the final episode scheduled for January 17, 2025.

As OUTLANDER approaches its conclusion, Balfe has been open about the emotional impact of filming the eighth and final season. In an interview with COLLIDER, she described the intensity of shooting the series’ final moments: “The leading up to it was the hardest part,” she revealed, adding that the anticipation led to significant anxiety and “a lot of ugly crying on my behalf.”

The series finale, which recently completed filming, adapts material from WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD and GO TELL THE BEES THAT I AM GONE, the final books in Gabaldon’s series. While the release date for Season 8 remains unannounced, Balfe’s portrayal of Claire Randall Fraser has spanned nearly a decade of television, establishing her as one of the most recognizable faces in historical drama.

PLAYING NICE premieres Jan 5th

Niamh Algar in PLAYING NICE

Niamh Algar in PLAYING NICE

PLAYING NICE stars Niamh Algar alongside James Norton in a gripping new psychological drama from ITV, STUDIOCANAL, and Rabbit Track Pictures. Algar portrays Maddie, a mother whose life is shattered when she discovers her toddler was switched at birth with another child.

The four-part series follows Maddie and her partner Pete (Norton) as they confront this devastating revelation, leading them into the lives of Miles (James McArdle) and Lucy (Jessica Brown Findlay) – the parents raising their biological child. While an initial agreement seems promising, sinister undercurrents begin to surface.

Adapted from JP Delaney’s novel for television by Grace Ofori-Attah, PLAYING NICE represents a major acquisition for STUDIOCANAL at MIPCOM. The series comes from Norton and Kitty Kaletsky’s Banijay-backed Rabbit Track Pictures, with Norton himself describing it as “a psychological thriller, and more psychological than thriller.”

The Irish actress Algar, known for her powerful performances in HAPPY VALLEY and RAISED BY WOLVES, takes on this complex maternal role in what promises to be an intense exploration of parental bonds and moral dilemmas.

PLAYING NICE premieres on ITV on Sunday, January 5th at 9pm.

 

FAREWELL TO HUGHES’S airs Dec 29

FAREWELL TO HUGHES'S airs Dec 29

FAREWELL TO HUGHES'S airs Dec 29

On December 29th at 20:30, TG4 will premiere BRENDAN GLEESON’S FAREWELL TO HUGHES’S, a deeply personal documentary celebrating the iconic Dublin pub that profoundly shaped traditional Irish music.

Hughes’s was more than just a neighborhood establishment—it was a cultural landmark. For over 35 years, the pub served as a vibrant hub for musicians, dancers, and music enthusiasts, creating an unparalleled sanctuary for traditional Irish musical expression. Oscar-nominated actor Brendan Gleeson, who frequently performed at Hughes’s, brings an intimate perspective to this tribute.

After the pub’s closure in 2021 following the passing of its beloved owner, Gleeson embarked on a heartfelt project to preserve its legacy. The documentary weaves together a rich tapestry of personal stories, capturing the essence of Hughes’s through interviews with musicians, dancers, and loyal patrons. It offers a profound exploration of the pub’s significant contribution to Ireland’s musical heritage.

The film is a collaborative labor of love, directed and produced by acclaimed filmmaker and fiddle player Ciarán Ó Maonaigh. Gleeson serves as executive producer alongside Liam O’Connor, with exceptional cinematography by Ray Mac Donnacha and a compelling sound mix by Brendan Rehill.

Following successful screenings at the Dublin International Film Festival and select cinemas in Dublin and Galway, BRENDAN GLEESON’S FAREWELL TO HUGHES’S will now reach a nationwide audience through TG4, ensuring the pub’s remarkable story continues to inspire and resonate with viewers.

 

SING STREET the musical

John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an…

Continue Reading SING STREET the musical

Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

The eagerly anticipated live-action Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage has reportedly secured an early 2026 release window, according to Nexus Point News. While awaiting official confirmation, this timeline aligns with what’s known about the production schedule for this MGM+ exclusive that will later move to Prime Video. The series marks Cage’s live-action debut as the…

Continue Reading Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

VERDIGRIS now in theatres

In the quiet corners of retirement, Marian’s world has shrunk to suffocating dimensions—annual holidays on repeat, a silent home, and a husband whose criticisms have become her daily soundtrack. VERDIGRIS, Patricia Kelly’s remarkable feature directorial debut, follows this retired woman’s journey as she secretly takes a job as a census enumerator in inner-city Dublin, far…

Continue Reading VERDIGRIS now in theatres

Scott’s RIPLEY earns Golden Globes nomination

Scott earns Golden Globes nomination

Scott earns Golden Globes nomination

In a testament to his remarkable acting prowess, Andrew Scott has secured a Golden Globes nomination for his captivating performance in Netflix’s psychological thriller RIPLEY, solidifying his reputation as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

Scott’s portrayal of Tom Ripley in the critically acclaimed series has earned him a well-deserved nomination in the Best Actor in a Limited Series or Television Film category. Based on Patricia Highsmith’s classic novel “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” the series offers a darker, more nuanced interpretation of the iconic character that Scott brings to life with extraordinary depth and complexity.

Unlike previous adaptations, Scott’s Ripley is a study in psychological manipulation and quiet intensity. His performance strips away the charismatic veneer often associated with the character, instead revealing a more calculating and internally tormented individual. The nomination recognizes Scott’s ability to navigate the intricate psychological landscape of Tom Ripley, presenting a version of the character that is both chilling and uncomfortably human.

The Golden Globes nomination is just one of many accolades for Scott’s performance. Critics have praised his ability to make Ripley simultaneously repulsive and magnetic, a challenging feat that requires immense acting skill. His nuanced portrayal transforms the character from a simple con artist into a complex psychological study of desire, class, and identity.

For Andrew Scott, known for his memorable roles in ALL OF US STRANGERS, FLEABAG and BLACK MIRROR, this nomination represents a significant milestone. It underscores his range as an actor and his capacity to take on challenging, morally ambiguous characters with remarkable insight and subtlety.

RIPLEY, directed by Steven Zaillian, has been lauded for its atmospheric black-and-white cinematography and Scott’s mesmerizing central performance. The series reimagines Highsmith’s narrative with a fresh, contemporary psychological depth that has resonated with both critics and audiences.

 

SING STREET the musical

John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an…

Continue Reading SING STREET the musical

Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

The eagerly anticipated live-action Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage has reportedly secured an early 2026 release window, according to Nexus Point News. While awaiting official confirmation, this timeline aligns with what’s known about the production schedule for this MGM+ exclusive that will later move to Prime Video. The series marks Cage’s live-action debut as the…

Continue Reading Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

VERDIGRIS now in theatres

In the quiet corners of retirement, Marian’s world has shrunk to suffocating dimensions—annual holidays on repeat, a silent home, and a husband whose criticisms have become her daily soundtrack. VERDIGRIS, Patricia Kelly’s remarkable feature directorial debut, follows this retired woman’s journey as she secretly takes a job as a census enumerator in inner-city Dublin, far…

Continue Reading VERDIGRIS now in theatres

Mescal to host SNL tonight!

Mescal to host SNL tonight

Mescal to host SNL tonight

Paul Mescal continues his rising Hollywood trajectory with a hosting gig on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE this weekend, capping off a breakthrough year that has seen him make significant strides in film and television.

Most recently, Mescal starred in GLADIATOR II, Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel released on November 22nd. The film marks a major milestone in the actor’s career, following his critically acclaimed performances in projects like AFTERSUN and NORMAL PEOPLE that first brought him international recognition.

On December 7th, he’ll take the stage as host of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE for the show’s eighth episode of Season 50. This hosting debut comes on the heels of his prominent role in the epic action sequel, showcasing his growing versatility as an entertainer.

The upcoming SNL episode will feature Shaboozey as the musical guest, adding another layer of excitement to the night. The show is part of NBC’s final three episodes of 2024, with subsequent hosts including Chris Rock (December 14th) and Martin Short (December 21st).

Mescal’s recent filmography demonstrates his rapid ascent in Hollywood, transitioning from indie darling to mainstream action star. His role in GLADIATOR II represents a significant pivot, placing him alongside established actors in a major historical epic directed by legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott.

SING STREET the musical

John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an…

Continue Reading SING STREET the musical

Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

The eagerly anticipated live-action Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage has reportedly secured an early 2026 release window, according to Nexus Point News. While awaiting official confirmation, this timeline aligns with what’s known about the production schedule for this MGM+ exclusive that will later move to Prime Video. The series marks Cage’s live-action debut as the…

Continue Reading Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

VERDIGRIS now in theatres

In the quiet corners of retirement, Marian’s world has shrunk to suffocating dimensions—annual holidays on repeat, a silent home, and a husband whose criticisms have become her daily soundtrack. VERDIGRIS, Patricia Kelly’s remarkable feature directorial debut, follows this retired woman’s journey as she secretly takes a job as a census enumerator in inner-city Dublin, far…

Continue Reading VERDIGRIS now in theatres

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Cillian Murphy as Voldemort?

Amid rumors of a potential HARRY POTTER TV adaptation, Cillian Murphy finds himself at the center of speculation about playing Voldemort – while simultaneously juggling an impressive lineup of high-profile projects.

Ralph Fiennes, the original Voldemort in the HARRY POTTER film series, has enthusiastically endorsed Murphy for the role. “Cillian is a fantastic actor,” Fiennes told Watch What Happens Live, calling the potential casting “a wonderful suggestion.”

Murphy’s packed schedule includes an upcoming zombie sequel, 28 YEARS LATER, Danny Boyle’s return to his iconic zombie franchise. The film, scheduled for release on June 20, 2025, will also feature Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer, reuniting Murphy with Fiennes.

He’s also preparing for the PEAKY BLINDERS film, continuing his journey as Thomas Shelby in the acclaimed crime series that made him a household name. While negotiations are still early for the potential HARRY POTTER villain role, Murphy’s experience playing antagonists – including Scarecrow in the BATMAN films and a terrorist in RED EYE – makes him an intriguing potential choice for Voldemort.

The proposed HBO series is expected to be a fresh adaptation of the beloved books, with no plans to include the original film’s cast members like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, or Rupert Grint.

With his versatility and proven track record of compelling performances, Murphy continues to be one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, seamlessly moving between intense dramatic roles and potential franchise entries.

SING STREET the musical

John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an…

Continue Reading SING STREET the musical

Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

The eagerly anticipated live-action Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage has reportedly secured an early 2026 release window, according to Nexus Point News. While awaiting official confirmation, this timeline aligns with what’s known about the production schedule for this MGM+ exclusive that will later move to Prime Video. The series marks Cage’s live-action debut as the…

Continue Reading Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

VERDIGRIS now in theatres

In the quiet corners of retirement, Marian’s world has shrunk to suffocating dimensions—annual holidays on repeat, a silent home, and a husband whose criticisms have become her daily soundtrack. VERDIGRIS, Patricia Kelly’s remarkable feature directorial debut, follows this retired woman’s journey as she secretly takes a job as a census enumerator in inner-city Dublin, far…

Continue Reading VERDIGRIS now in theatres

Northern Irish shows “Best of 2024”

BLUE LIGHTS tops "Best of 2024" list

BLUE LIGHTS tops "Best of 2024" list

Two groundbreaking television series set in Northern Ireland have captured critical acclaim, making the New York Times Best TV Shows of 2024 list and offering powerful narratives that explore the region’s complex historical and contemporary landscape.

Disney’s SAY NOTHING, adapted from Patrick Radden Keefe’s bestselling book, delivers a gripping narrative deeply rooted in the historical context of the Troubles. The show provides an unflinching look at a dark period of Northern Irish history, examining the human cost of prolonged conflict.

TV Critic James Poniewozik praised the series as a “tough but enthralling work that traces old scars, revives bitter memories and measures a generational account of multiplying injustice.” The show stands out for its nuanced approach to storytelling, bringing the intricate layers of Northern Ireland’s painful past into sharp focus.

Equally compelling is BLUE LIGHTS, a Belfast-based drama that offers a modern perspective on the ongoing reverberations of the Troubles. Created by Adam Patterson and Declan Lawn, the series follows PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) officers navigating the complex social and political landscape of contemporary Belfast.

New York Times TV Critic Mike Hale highlighted the show’s profound exploration of historical trauma, noting that “The Troubles are alive in this Northern Irish crime drama, a legacy of damage, suspicion and hatred that threatens cops every time they step out of their cars.”

The series distinguishes itself through its authentic portrayal of police work, blending familiar procedural elements with deep emotional nuance. Sian Brooke’s performance as a middle-aged rookie officer with social worker instincts has been particularly praised, bringing depth and humanity to the ensemble cast.

Both SAY NOTHING and BLUE LIGHTS demonstrate the continued artistic vitality of Northern Irish storytelling, offering viewers sophisticated, layered narratives that go beyond simplistic representations of conflict and instead explore the human experiences that persist in its wake.

SING STREET the musical

John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an…

Continue Reading SING STREET the musical

Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

The eagerly anticipated live-action Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage has reportedly secured an early 2026 release window, according to Nexus Point News. While awaiting official confirmation, this timeline aligns with what’s known about the production schedule for this MGM+ exclusive that will later move to Prime Video. The series marks Cage’s live-action debut as the…

Continue Reading Brendan Gleeson in SPIDER-MAN NOIR

VERDIGRIS now in theatres

In the quiet corners of retirement, Marian’s world has shrunk to suffocating dimensions—annual holidays on repeat, a silent home, and a husband whose criticisms have become her daily soundtrack. VERDIGRIS, Patricia Kelly’s remarkable feature directorial debut, follows this retired woman’s journey as she secretly takes a job as a census enumerator in inner-city Dublin, far…

Continue Reading VERDIGRIS now in theatres