Sizzling Samachar: Ella Purnell’s killer squirrel flick: A career-maker or breaker?; ‘Pacific Rim’ prequel series announced under new legendary entertainment deal

Welcome to your daily dose of entertainment news on OTTplay, I'm your host Nikhil. News from Hollywood up next.

Ella Purnell’s killer squirrel flick: A career-maker or breaker?

First up, Ella Purnell, the talented star from Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and the hit series Fallout, is taking a daring leap into indie cinema with The Scurry. It’s a horror-comedy about—wait for it—killer squirrels! Directed by Craig Roberts, this film aims to blend the cult humour of Shaun of the Dead with the surreal dark comedy vibes of Beau is Afraid. Purnell herself admits this could either be a masterpiece or, well, career suicide. Set in an eco café overrun by these deranged critters, the film promises chaos like we’ve never seen before. No release date yet, but fans are on the edge of their seats for this one. Will this be a make or break for Purnell? We’ll just have to wait and watch how this one turns out.

‘John Wick’ 5 not filming next year – What’s next for the franchise?

Now, for all you John Wick fans, hold onto your hats—because John Wick 5 won’t be filming in 2025 after all. Director Chad Stahelski is tied up with his next project, Highlander, which is set to shoot in Scotland next year. So, when will Keanu return to the underworld? Well, it’s up in the air, but the Wick universe isn’t going anywhere. Look out for John Wick Presents: Ballerina and an exciting new TV series to keep the action rolling.

‘Pacific Rim’ prequel series announced under new legendary entertainment deal

Next, in the realm of colossal robots and terrifying Kaiju, the Pacific Rim universe is expanding! Legendary Entertainment has just announced a new prequel series under a fresh deal with Eric Heisserer’s Chronology. While the plot details are still under wraps, this series will explore the untold stories leading up to the epic battles we’ve come to love. More Jaegers, more Kaiju, and more action? Yes, please!

‘The Boys' star Claudia Doumit joins Blumhouse's ‘SOULM8TE’ in ‘M3GAN’ universe

Shifting gears to the world of techno-thrillers, The Boys star Claudia Doumit is stepping into the M3GAN universe with Blumhouse's new film SOULM8TE. Directed by Kate Dolan, this film promises darker, more adult themes as it follows a man who buys a mechanoid companion—what could go wrong, right? With Doumit on board, expect intense, gripping drama, and perhaps a few mechanical meltdowns. And with M3GAN 2.0 in the works, this universe is only just heating up!

Harvey Keitel and Britt Robertson to star in new comedy-drama 'The Letter'

In other news, Hollywood legend Harvey Keitel and The Rookie’s Britt Robertson are teaming up for The Letter, a new comedy-drama directed by Rodrigo H. Villa. Filming is wrapping up in Buenos Aires, and the story delves into the deep bond between a war veteran and a struggling writer. At 85, Keitel shows no signs of slowing down, and we can’t wait to see this one when it hits cinemas in 2025.

‘Prison Break' star Peter Stormare joins cast of Jo Nesbø's Netflix crime series

Over at Netflix, Prison Break’s Peter Stormare has joined the cast of Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole. This crime series, based on Nesbø’s popular novels, is shaping up to be a must-watch. With Tobias Santelmann as the troubled Detective Harry Hole and Joel Kinnaman as his corrupt rival, expect plenty of psychological drama and nail-biting suspense. It’s set to premiere in 2026, so mark your calendars!

Disney+ cancels 'The Acolyte' after one season, leaving fans disappointed

And now, some disappointing news for Star Wars fans—Disney+ has cancelled The Acolyte after just one season. Despite positive reviews and a solid following, the show, which delved into Sith lore, won’t be returning. The first season left us with loads of unresolved questions, particularly around Osha’s transformation into a Sith. It’s a blow to those excited about expanding Star Wars lore, but the first season is still available for streaming if you need your fix.

Michaela Coel's new drama project 'First Day on Earth' announced

Michaela Coel, the creative genius behind I May Destroy You, is back with a new drama series titled First Day on Earth. Co-produced by the BBC, HBO, and A24, this series follows Henri, a British novelist who heads to Ghana to reconnect with her estranged father. Set to start filming in 2025, Coel will both star in and executive produce the project. Expect her signature mix of comedy, drama, and deep emotional themes. Also, look out for her in Mother Mary, alongside Anne Hathaway.

'The Office' gets an Australian reboot with a female lead

Finally, The Office is getting another international reboot—this time Down Under! The Office Australia will feature comedian Felicity Ward as Hannah Howard, a managing director trying to save her branch from closure. With all the workplace shenanigans we love, but with an Aussie twist, it’s set to premiere on Prime Video on October 18, 2024.

Well that's all we got for this episode, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.

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- Written by Apurva Dutta

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