'Ghost Protocol' tops crowded Christmas frame

Paramount's ''Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol'' ongoing its Christmas B.O. domination, by having an up-to-date believed three-day gross of $26.5 million and four-day estimations at $40.3 million, pushing the film's Stateside cume to $72.six million by Monday.''Ghost Protocol'' capped a crowded frame, including five other wide releases a few days ago.Soph-sesh holdover ''Sherlock Holmes: A Game Title of Shadows'' handled to position second, by having an believed $17.8 million in 72 hours. Pic's cume through Sunday stands at $76.six million, positioning ''Sherlock'' like a solid contender to become among the holiday season's best-grossing domestic player.Sony's adult-specific new entry ''The Girl Using the Dragon Tattoo'' published a 3-day tally of $13 million for any domestic cume of $21.4 million. ''Tattoo'' opened up 12 ,. 21 for latenight tests.Although the weekend saw sluggish business with Christmas Eve falling on the Saturday, B.O. experts expect theater visitors to increase by mid-mid-day today which should complete towards the year.Most galleries intend to release four-day estimations early Monday.One of the weekend's some of the best gamers, Fox's family holdover ''Alvin and also the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked'' totalled an believed $13.3 million from Friday to Sunday, having a domestic cume of $50.3 million.''Chipwrecked'' handidly beat the market's other kidpic, Par's ''The Adventures of Tintin,'' which obtained a 3-day opening gross of $9.a million and $14.3 million in four days. ''Tintin'' released Wednesday for any Stateside tally of $22.3 million through Monday, including Canadian grosses.Fox's Cameron Crowe-helmed ''We Purchased a Zoo'' opened up Friday, posting in 72 hours an believed $7.8 million.In the niche B.O., the Weinstein Co. extended its pair, ''The Artist'' and ''My Week with Marilyn,'' using the latter pic playing at 602 locations, yielding an believed three-day gross just north of $500,000. ''The Artist,'' which performed at far less engagements (167), really did much better than ''Marilyn,'' tallying through Sunday an believed $857,000. ''Marilyn'' has cumed $6.9 million ''The Artist,'' $2.4 million.David Glasser, COO at Weinstein, credited that towards the studio's patient rollout technique for ''The Artist.''''People continue to be finding the film,'' Glasser stated. ''Now, what we are seeing within the exits is the fact that individuals are being released from it saying, 'That wasn't things i expected.'''Launching wide today are Disney-DreamWorks' ''War Horse'' and Summit's ''The Pitch-dark Hour.'' Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

'Napoleon Dynamite' Star Jon Heder Signs With Gersh

"Napoleon Dynamite" star Jon Heder has signed with Gersh. Heder is reprising the offbeat titular character from the 2004 Fox Searchlight film for an animated TV version of "Napoleon Dynamite" that will debut in January on Fox.He also stars opposite Paul Dano in the indie feature "For Ellen," which will be in competition at the Sundance Film Festival in January. Heder's film credits include"Blades of Glory" (2007), "Surf's Up" (2007) and "When in Rome" (2010).He was previously represented by CAA. The Hollywood Reporter

Recording Acad to fete Iovine

It Academy's Producers & Engineers Wing will recognition Interscope-Geffen-A&M chairman Jimmy Iovine in a 2012 Grammy Week event realizing his resolve for excellence in recorded music. Iovine started his music biz career being an engineer, dealing with functions like John Lennon and Bruce Springsteen. He moved into production, helming classic albums by functions including Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Patti Cruz and U2. He co-founded Interscope Records in 1990. Iovine can also be joined within the high-finish earphone and seem company Beats Electronics with Dr. Dre. NARAS prexy-Boss Neil Portnow stated inside a statement: "This season we pay tribute for an leader in the industry, Jimmy Iovine, that has made an indelible impact like a recording engineer, producer, founding father of Interscope Records, and today entrepreneur centered on audio quality. Once we still highlight individuals who work 'behind the glass,' we're extremely pleased this season to celebrate someone of Jimmy's stature who's so devoted for this important cause." P&E Wing fete will occur February. 8 in the Village Recording Galleries in West L.A. Bono and Dr. Dre are becoming honorary event co-chairs. Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

MovieMantz: Top Christmas Movies Of-Time

First Launched: December 21, 2011 2:07 PM EST Credit: Composed by AccessHollywood.com Caption MovieMantz Top Christmas Movies Of-TimeLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Some Naughty, Some Nice So, the holidays got you lower, right? Frustrated with beating everybody else to purchase Christmas gifts that you just probably cant afford, only to get presents as a swap that you just dont even want (or have)? Annoyed the crappy economy put the kibosh inside your Christmas bonus, and perhaps even deep-sixed your projects completely? Fearing the options of trading what little free down-time you've with nosy family people that you just wouldnt even bother keeping in touch with alternatively 364 days of year? Well, don't worry, my movie-loving pals! This list of Holidays classics will definitely put the zing inside your Christmas spirit. Despite a couple of from the more apparent options that basically can not be overlooked, not every one is bona-fide Christmas movies inside the traditional sense. However when you would really like traditional, hey, go buy a Hallmark card. 10) Bad Santa (2003) Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Bernie Mac, Tony Cox Directed by: Terry Zwigoff The Story: Thornton plays an unsatisfied disadvantage guy who poses when you-know-who to tear off shops on Christmas Eve, but his ice-covered heart begins to thaw because he unwillingly befriends a troubled kid. Why its a classic: This raunchy, R-rated, mean-spirited dark comedy flies when faced with precisely what defines a classical Christmas movie, but thats the positive thing about this. But despite its incredibly sour tone, a person's heart in the movie ultimately rules to produce moviegoers happy in unforeseen ways. 9) Scrooged (1988) Starring: Bill Murray, Karen Allen, John Forsythe Directed by: Richard Donner The Story: Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol will receive a present day transformation, with Bill Murray playing a callous television executive who works his staff for the bone to be able to increase his systems ratings. Why its a classic: Though less dark badly Santa, its still very funny, and Bill Murray is clearly getting a lot of fun playing a modern day-day Scrooge who finds out the old familiar lesson painfully costly way. 8) Gremlins (1984) Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates Directed by: Joe Dante The Story: The folks from the attractive small town ignore three very important rules about these cute-and-fuzzy little creatures, only to watch them become trouble-making monsters that destroy all things in their path. Why its a classic: What starts off becoming an idealistic and endearing cousin to E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial turns into a chaotic nightmare thats twisted, mischievous and a lot of fun. And when you factor in correctly, Billy (Galligan) can get Gadget as watch for mtss is a Christmas present! 7) Die Hard (1988) Starring: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman Directed by: John McTiernan The Story: Employees inside a Party inside an trendy La high-rise get taken hostage by callous terrorists, which is up to wise-cracking off-duty NY cop can offer relief. Why its a classic: One of the better action movies ever, and game-changer that created a sub-genre by itself (Die Very challenging to an plane, Die Very challenging to a speed boat, etc.). Moonlightings Bruce Willis acquired a then-record $5 million to star, which he acquired every cent from this. Yippee-kiy-yay Motherf****r, indeed! 6) Love Really (2003) Starring: Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson Directed by: Richard Curtis The Story: More than twelve figures around London weave interior and exterior one anothers lives (and hearts) throughout the time of 1 very eventful Christmas holiday. Why its a classic: The very best romantic comedy has something for everyone maybe too much, really nonetheless its so wonderful and touching that it's difficult to resist. 5) Home Alone (1990) Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci Directed by: Chris Columbus The Story: After accidentally being overlooked when his family leaves for a visit to France, a young boy finds out to take care of themselves and safeguard his home from two bumbling crooks. Why its a classic: Think Die Hard for kids. The slapstick humor can be somewhat much, but what youthful boy wouldnt imagine getting rid of the comfort in the family for just about any handful of wild and crazy nights through the holidays? 4) The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Directed by: Henry Selick (animated) The Story: Halloweentown resident Jack Skellington puts too much spirit inside the Christmas spirit. Why its a classic: Besides this excellent feature, produced by Tim Burton, boast incredible stop-motion animation, a Grammy-nominated soundtrack together with an imaginative, ingenious, heartwarming story, however, you cannot fail getting a film that covers two holidays for your price of 1. 3) Elf (2003) Starring: Will Ferrell, Zooey Deschanel Directed by: Jon Favreau The Story: An ordinary-sized guy elevated becoming an elf inside the North Pole visits NY City to locate his biological father. Why its a classic: A smart, clever and extremely funny script is fully recognized through Jon Favreaus assured direction and may Ferrells career-identifying performance since the idealistic, sweet-natured and irresistible title character. 2) A Christmas Story (1983) Starring: Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillion Directed by: Bob Clark The Story: A young boy tries to convince his pals, teachers and family the toy BB gun might be the best Christmas gift. Youll shoot your abilities out, kid. Why its a classic: Its wry, funny, touching, nostalgic and timeless. No real surprise cable tv channels run it around the continuous loop for 20-four several hours round the large day. 1) Its a great Existence (1946) Starring: Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed Directed by: Frank Capra The Story: A frustrated businessman sights suicide, until a protector angel attempting to earn his wings helps him start to see the light. Why its a classic: Like you need to request? Frank Capras classic is extremely this is actually the Citizen Kane of Holiday movies plus it just keeps enhancing every year. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Helen Mirren to Pay a Royal Visit to Glee

Helen Mirren Helen Mirren will guest-star on Glee - but you'll have to listen closely to catch her.The Oscar winner for The Queen will provide the inner voice of a character in what is potentially a recurring gig, TVLine reports. Mirren recorded the "long and hilarious monologues" two weeks ago and later surprised the cast on set, a source tells the site.Check out photos of Helen MirrenThe part was written for Mirren, and the show's producers asked Eric Stoltz, a frequent Glee director and Mirren's The Passion of Ayn Rand co-star, to pitch it to her.Mirren's episode will air Jan. 17 and will also feature The Real Housewives of Atlanta's NeNe Leakes as new swim coach Roz Washington.Are you excited to hear Helen Mirren? Whose inner dialogue would require the dame's efforts?

Winona Ryder To Experience Murders Wife In Indie The Iceman

EXCLUSIVE: Winona Ryder just dedicated to star with Michael Shannon and Chris Evans within the Iceman, the Ariel Vromen-directed drama in line with the Anthony Bruno book about Richard Kuklinski, a household guy who privately completed contract killings for that mob. Millennium Films/Nu Image is financing. Shannon is playing Kuklinski, also known as The Iceman, and Evans is playing his mentor, Robert Pronge. Ryder, most lately observed in Black Swan and also the Dilemma, will have Kuklinski’s wife, Deborah, who would never know he would be a contract killer. Gersh-repped Ryder just wrapped the indie The Stare opposite James Franco.

Dealmakers talk state of biz

Variety prexy Neil Stiles and Fox Searchlights Nancy Utley chat prior to the Dealmaker seshes at Soho House West Hollywood. Katherine Pope of Chernin Entertainment and Jimmy Horowitz of Universal Pictures attends Variety's Dealmakers Breakfast.Kelly Mullins of 42 West and Jesse Jacobs of Chernin Entertainment.Sean Kisker of Lionsgate (pictured left) and Scott Parrish of Alcon.WMEs Paul Haas and Ari Greenburg.Jean Luc Deante of Winchester Capital (pictured left) and Sky Moore of StroockUTAs Jeremy Zimmer and Loeb and Loebs Mickey Mayerson.Variety editor-in-chief Tim Gray and Peter Chernin opened the breakfast with a Q&A.Houlihan Lokeys Andrew Walter, IM Globals Stuart Ford, MGMs Gary Barber, OMelveny and Myers Christopher Breaton and Variety s Steven Gaydos talk film-finance trends and issues.When it comes to new media, Hollywood should be open to change but wary of getting boxed in by relying too much on a single distribution partner. So said Peter Chernin during his keynote convo Tuesday ayem at Variety's Dealmakers Breakfast gathering, held at Soho House West Hollywood.In a wide-ranging Q&A with Variety editor-in-chief Tim Gray, Chernin spoke of his areas of focus and investment (high-end film and TV, digital platforms and emerging Asian markets) since leaving News Corp. in mid-2009 to launch Chernin Entertainment and the Chernin Group. Following Chernin, a quartet of top players in the film-finance sector weighed in on the climate for pic coin deals and outlook for 2012 in a sesh moderated by Variety executive editor Steven Gaydos.Chernin was candid in offering his perspective to the crowd of about 130 industryites on the myriad challenges that showbiz execs face at a time when the business landscape is undergoing dramatic change."That's why these jobs are hard, and that's why the people in this room get paid a lot of money," he quipped. Both in the TV and film sector, "there's real tension between protecting your existing business models, particularly as it relates to the cable business model," and the need to be open to new revenue-generating opportunities, he said.Chernin observed that Hollywood has learned from the mistakes made a decade ago by the music business, which was first ravaged by piracy as digital file-swapping services became popular and then allowed Apple's iTunes to dictate the pricing and distribution terms for the legitimate online market.In Chernin's view, the rise of Netflix during the past year has been "remarkably positive for the business." He also remains bullish on the long-term prospects for Hulu, the Internet vid giant that he spearheaded for News Corp. in partnership with NBCUniversal in 2007. Although News Corp., NBCU and Disney (which bought into Hulu in 2009) tested the waters for selling Hulu earlier this year, Chernin called it "a phenomenal thing for these guys to own" and pegged its market value at around $3 billion.During the film-finance sesh, panelists zeroed in on two central issues: the overall drought of equity funding in the marketplace and the red ink that some investors saw from slate deals inked during the go-go years just before the global economic meltdown in 2008-09.Although the actual returns were more nuanced, the perception is that investors lost a fortune through those deals, and that hangover has definitely affected the flow of capital into Hollywood. "The myth is that everyone lost money," Christopher Brearton, O'Melveny & Myers managing partner, told the crowd. "And that's just not true." However, Andrew Walter, senior veep and head of the entertainment practice at Houlihan Lokey, countered: "There's a lot of money that feels like it's gotten burned."Panelists agreed that as financing options shift, Hollywood has to become more flexible in adopting new models. "The traditional independent financing model no longer serves 70% of the product that needs financing," IM Global CEO Stuart Ford said. "The presence of high net-worth individual money, which is less rigidly ROI focused, is what's keeping the cameras rolling for much of the industry." Gary Barber, MGM co-chairman and CEO, was blunt in discussing the pressure distribs face to deliver a big opening weekend B.O. number in order to set a pic on the path to profitability. "We're like parachutists," he said. "If we don't open, we're dead." Contact Cynthia Littleton at cynthia.littleton@variety.com

Pakistani Actress Veena Malik Sues Indian Men's Magazine For 'Doctored' Nude Photo

Getty Chelsea Clinton's first appearance as a NBC News correspondant is set for Dec. 12. The former first daughter will appear on Rock Center With Brian Williams during a segment about a nonprofit organization in her home state of Arkansas.our editor recommendsNBC News President Defends Hiring Chelsea ClintonMedia Analyst Slams NBC News for Hiring 'Impostor' Chelsea ClintonChelsea Clinton Joins IAC's Board of DirectorsTV's Shameful Love Affair with Political Daughters The report is part of the network's "Making a Difference" franchise and was spearheaded by Clinton, notes the NY Times. PHOTOS: Clinton Foundation Decade of Difference Fundraiser Clinton's profiles will be broadcast on Rock Center as well as the NBC Nightly News. Clinton joined the news organization in mid-November, at which time the network stressed that she will not be a traditional news correspondant, i.e., she won't be reporting on politics. Clinton said of her new position, "I hope telling stories through 'Making a Difference' -- as in my academic work and non-profit work -- will help me to live my grandmother's adage of 'Life is not about what happens to you, but about what you do with what happens to you'." Clinton, 31, also recently joing the board of Barry Diller's IAC and is the second daughter of a former president to work for the company. George W. Bush's daugher Jenna Bush Hager is a correspondant for the Today show, while Meghan McCain, the daughter of Arizona Senator and former presidential candidate John McCain, reports for MSNBC. Brian Williams NBC Rock Center

Verly looks beyond 3D to high-tech future

VerlyConfab co-founder Jacques Verly looks beyond 3D to high-tech future:"We appeal to lots of different people: artists, filmmakers, scientists, engineers people who think in terms of equations, and others in terms of pictures."The synergy between these various disciplines that the event aspires to promote may produce new products that the entertainment biz can exploit in the future."The stereoscopic movie is very exciting, but it is the first step in a long process," Verly says. "I was thinking a few days ago, 'Will we see the time when you have a kind of holographic movie theater?' One day it will filter out from the research labs, and everyone will rush to see the new 'Avatar' in a holographic theater. I'm probably dreaming, but there are plenty of things to do in 3D."One of the recent achievements of the professor, who formerly worked at Stanford and MIT, was to organize a live 3D transmission of neurosurgery last year at a health conference in Liege.The operation was carried out at the University Hospital of Liege and was watched by a mesmerized public in a movie theater downtown. One woman interviewed by the local pubcaster said, "This was better than 'Avatar.' "Not something you should expect to see in a multiplex near you, yet proof that the media biz, medicine and science can combine effectively.RELATED LINKS Mart aims to boost indie 3D Contact Leo Barraclough at leo.barraclough@variety.com

Kahn : 'Perfect' ending to classic Hollywood story

Lauryn KahnLast year, Lauryn Kahn was making her living as an assistant to multi-hyphenate Adam McKay of Gary Sanchez Prods., a shingle he co-owns with Will Ferrell. Last month, Kahn sold her comedy spec "He's Fuckin' Perfect" to Fox 2000 in a deal that is reportedly worth $1 million. Emma Stone is attached to star.Kahn's life is about to get a lot more interesting, but she admits the transition has taken some getting used to. "I'm still working out of the Gary Sanchez office and people keep saying things like, 'Stop ordering lunch for everyone!'?"After becoming McKay's assistant five years ago, it didn't take long for Kahn to realize that it was more than just a job; it was also a priceless opportunity to learn. "Every day was an improv lesson," says the WME client.If the office was her school, then McKay was her teacher. He saw a lot of comedic potential in the woman who was in charge of keeping his schedule, and encouraged her to enroll in improv classes at Upright Citizens Brigade. Soon after, Kahn found herself writing, directing and appearing in shorts on FunnyorDie.com, the website founded by McKay and Ferrell.After selling an untitled pilot a year and a half ago, Kahn began work on the outline for what would become "He's Fuckin' Perfect." McKay read it, gave her notes, and then suggested she write the spec herself. "He told me, 'The outline is really strong and you'll have more creative control, so just do it.' "He also gave her another piece of advice. "He said, 'When you pay your $13 and sit down in a movie theater, what do you want to see? That's what you write. Not what you think is gonna sell. Not what you think is gonna be big. Write what you want to see.' "In the end, Kahn took McKay's advice and wrote and sold the movie she wanted to see.Now if Kahn could just stop ordering food for the rest of the office.TEN SCREENWRITERS TO WATCH 2011:Josh Applebaum & Andrew Nemec | Jay Baruchel & Jesse Chabot | Justin Britt-Gibson | Neil Cross | Andrew Haigh | Kurt Johnstad | Lauryn Kahn | Paula Pell | Jon Spaihts | Brian Yorkey Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com