English filmmaker; visual storyteller behind Alien, Gladiator, and more
New film, theatre and music events have been announced, spanning cinema premieres, stage productions and live tours across the UK. The Guardian and Independent cover forthcoming releases and performances; dates run through September with festivals and exhibitions filling the calendar.
The summer box office has risen to about $4.6–4.76 billion in domestic ticket sales, driven by both high-profile releases and new, low-budget hits. While inflation-adjusted figures show a more modest rebound, the industry is signaling resilience as filmmakers and audiences rebound from pandemic disruptions. Fall releases are expected to sustain momentum amid ongoing industry changes.
Focus Features’ marketing for The Uprising has shifted from a Peasants’ Revolt focus to a Robin Hood angle in the US, while the UK campaign emphasizes the revolt narrative. The discrepancy raises questions about the film’s identity and messaging as audiences await its release.
Ridley Scott has announced he is developing a follow-up to Alien: Covenant, with Fassbender’s David returning. The project is described as exploring how David creates a brave new world, as Scott signals a continued, multi-track approach to the franchise alongside Romulus and Earth. The news comes as interest in the series persists after recent additions to the Alien universe.
The Looney Tunes feature has opened after Warner Bros. shelved it in 2023 to claim a tax write‑off. Independent distributor Ketchup Entertainment has released it to solid numbers, with critics praising its blend of satire and slapstick. The film follows Wile E. Coyote as he sues Acme, aided by a personal-injury lawyer and a cast that includes Will Forte and John Cena.
The Guardian and Independent reviews converge on Greengrass’s The Uprising (aka The Rise of Robin Hood), arguing the film’s attempt to parallel 14th‑century revolt with today’s politics falls short, while Garfield’s Ploughman amid a muddy epic fails to ignite. Focus Features releases the US version on Sept 11.