Film News Roundup: 7

            “Sons of Anarchy” actor Charlie Hunnmam has dropped out of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” film adaptation. Last month the actor was cast in the coveted role of Christina Grey; now the filmmakers and actor are citing that his TV schedule hasn’t allowed him to prepare for the role adequately. With production set to start later this month, Universal Studios and the filmmakers will be reeling to replace Hunnam.

            Furthermore, two sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Hunnam was “overwhelmed with the attention he received from being cast in the movie and got cold feet about carrying such a high-profile project.”

            Despite what side of the story you might believe, Hunnam’s involvement in the film definitely peeked my interest; sad to say that my interest has dwindled to zero. Maybe it’s for the better; this role could’ve made his infamous, a la the “Twilight.”

            Hunnam’s next film project will be “Crimson Peak” with his “Pacific Rim” director Guillermo de Toro, which also stars Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston, and Mia Wasikowska.

            Also, Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly are set to reunite in a new comedy titled “Devil’s Night.” The film is about a pair of quarreling neighbors who join forces to stop a group of kids from destroying the town on the eve of Halloween.

There’s no doubt that the chemistry between Ferrell and Reilly is unquestionable; just see “Talladega Nights” and “Step Brothers” for reference. “Devil’s Night” will mark the third time Ferrell and Reilly have co-starred in a film; it sounds like another slam dunk for the duo.

Ferrell can be seen next in (also Reilly, providing a cameo) “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues”, opening December 20^th

Finally, earlier this week a new trailer for George Clooney’s “The Monuments Men” was released. While the first trailer showcased the comedic tone the film, the second emphasizes the serious side of the film. Written, directed, and starring Clooney, the film follows a World War II platoon made up of museum directors, curators, and art historians tasked to retrieve stolen art pieces from Nazi thieves.

The film is highly regarded as an Oscar contender and this trailer solidifies its argument; this is one film I can’t wait to see myself and it surely will be one of the films to beat at the Academy Awards.  The film boast an ensemble cast that includes, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, and Hugh Bonneville. “The Monuments Men” opens in theaters December 18^th. Check out the trailer below.