Academy Award Nominee James Mangold Discusses Bob Dylan’s Transformative Journey in ‘A Complete Unknown’
'A Complete Unknown' Director Mangold spoke with Awards Focus about the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with emotional storytelling.
Unforgettable Gala 2024: A Celebration of AAPI Voices in Hollywood
On Saturday night, leaders in the Asian American film and television industry descended on the Beverly Hilton to celebrate the Unforgettable Gala, produced by Character Media. The evening began with a vibrant red carpet event, where actors, content creators, and influential movers and shakers greeted the press, many of whom were Asian American correspondents including Ben Lei from Awards Focus.
Blending Culture And Heart: Pat Boonnitipat’s ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ Explores Love And Legacy
In his feature directorial debut, Pat Boonnitipat introduces himself as a filmmaker with a keen eye for emotional depth in How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies. In a conversation with Awards Focus, Pat Boonnitipat delves into the origins of the film, the artistic challenges of adapting such a personal story, and his perspective on the transition from television to feature filmmaking.
Showrunner Laura Eason Discusses Vulnerability, Intimacy, And Power in Starz’ ‘Three Women’
Laura Eason has built a formidable career blending her talents as a playwright and screenwriter into captivating television narratives. Her latest endeavor as the showrunner for Three Women, a series now streaming on Starz, represents a significant new chapter in her career, allowing her to dive deep into the raw, emotionally charged terrain of female desire and resilience.
Honoring The Past, Forging The Future: Wes Ball’s Vision For ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’
Director Wes Ball spoke with Awards Focus about his creative process, the challenges of directing a legacy franchise, and how he sought to expand the emotional and visual landscape of the Apes universe. He delved into the film’s exploration of power dynamics, the evolving definition of civilization, and the personal stakes embedded in the characters’ arcs.
Production Designer Ruth Ammon Talks Cultural Accuracy in ‘Pachinko’ Season 2
In her latest endeavor, production designer Ruth Ammon brings a vivid authenticity to Pachinko Season 2 (both seasons streaming on Apple TV+), transforming historical settings into immersive storytelling. Based on Min Jin Lee's novel, the series explores intertwined Korean and Japanese histories, mostly through the lens of Koreans struggling to be seen as equals since World War II. Ammon, enlisted by showrunner Soo Hugh, embraced the complexity of designing for multiple eras, locations and socioeconomic status, crafting a world that feels both expansive and intimate. Despite the formidable challenges, Ammon describes the experience as one of the most creatively fulfilling of her career.
15th Annual Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA) Winners
The 15th Annual Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA) were awarded during a ceremony at The Avalon on November 20, 2024.
The winners of the 15th Annual Hollywood Music in Medi... Read More...
“The Sex Lives of College Girls” Season 3: A Glimpse Into The New Semester At Vulture Fest
During Vulture Fest, held November 16-17, showrunner Justin Noble and cast members Alyah Chanelle Scott, Renika Williams, and Ilia Isorelýs Paulino teased Season 3 of "The Sex Lives of College Girls" during a playful pajama-themed panel.
Legendary Actress Joan Chen’s Journey: Embracing Motherhood And Identity In “Dìdi”
In her interview with Awards Focus, Chen reflects on her journey and emphasizes the importance of stories like "Dìdi" in today’s landscape.
Amazon Prime’s ‘Cross’: Ben Watkins And The Cast Share Insights At NYCC Ahead Of Premiere
Amazon Prime’s newest detective series, Cross, premieres on November 14th and seems poised to become the next hit adaptation of a popular book series featuring a strong male lead who one way or another, stops the bad guys. Following in the footsteps of Jack Ryan and Reacher, Cross feels like a sure bet to attract viewers - it has already been renewed for a second season ahead of its debut. During a press carpet at New York Comic Con on October 18th, Awards Focus spoke with writer/showrunner Ben Watkins, Aldis Hodge—who takes on the titular role—and co-stars Ryan Eggold, Isaiah Mustafa, and Samantha Walkes.