Hey everyone, this is Cinemagnetic. We’re like that super honest friend that lets you know when you have broccoli in your teeth - we tell it like it is.

It’s Saturday, let’s get it:

• Suits' Netflix Revival Sparks Long-Form TV Debate 🤵

• CineLink Industry Days: Nurturing Balkan Film Talent 🌟

• Gal Gadot Shares Approach to Cleopatra Movie's Portrayal 🏜️

• George Lucas' Secretive Star Wars Sale to Disney 🌌

Daily Domestic Box Office: August 10, 2023 💸

Suits' Netflix Revival Sparks Long-Form TV Debate 🤵

When "Suits," the legal drama starring Gabriel Macht and Patrick J. Adams, landed on Netflix in June, it seemed like just another addition to the streaming library. However, the show's unexpected surge in popularity has ignited discussions about the return of longer-form TV storytelling. In the week of June 26 - July 2, "Suits" broke Netflix's acquired series viewing record, racking up 3.14 billion minutes watched. This resurgence of interest hints at a nostalgia for the extended seasons of the past, as viewers embrace character development, intricate plots, and a deeper connection with the story.

In recent years, the shift to shorter seasons was motivated by various factors, including the availability of A-list stars and the freedom from syndication demands. Streaming platforms allowed for more concise, attention-grabbing content, aligning with shorter attention spans. Yet, the limitations of shorter formats have become evident. Shows like "The Summer I Turned Pretty" and "The Sex Lives of College Girls" struggle with character depth and plot intricacies in their compact episodes. In contrast, longer series like "Suits," with its nine seasons and 134 episodes, have the space for comprehensive character arcs and elaborate storytelling.

"Suits" showcased slow-burn relationships, intricate workplace dynamics, and personal growth over its extended run. While not without its flaws, the show's success prompts discussions about the strengths of long-form storytelling and whether it could make a comeback in the age of streaming. As the industry reevaluates episode counts and audience preferences, the renewed interest in "Suits" raises questions about the future of TV series with 16-20 episode seasons. Only time will reveal whether this trend will lead to a resurgence of more expansive television narratives.

What's coming? 🤔

CineLink Industry Days: Nurturing Balkan Film Talent 🌟

In the heart of Sarajevo, against misty hills, the iconic Hotel Europe hosts a bustling scene each summer. A convergence of film and TV pros, this 140-year-old haven survived wars and shelling, embodying the spirit of Sarajevo's rebirth. CineLink Industry Days, born two decades after the city's turmoil, thrives as a Balkan cinema powerhouse. Under Maša Marković's stewardship, it incubates emerging talents, a "generator" of fresh filmmakers who rise from Sarajevo's labs to its red carpet.

Beyond the Sarajevo Film Festival, CineLink's impact ripples. The Co-Production Market readies pitches, Script doctors guide, and the Ponta Lopud Festival bridges regional newcomers with global cinema giants. Success stories include global hits like "Son of Saul" and "Touch Me Not." This year, eleven premieres hail from CineLink's nurturing embrace, a testament to its discerning curation.

As the Sarajevo Film Festival gathers, 1,000 industry insiders assemble, fostering discovery and networking. With the CineLink Producers' Lab, it welcomes novices shaping content. A surging TV scene fuels innovation, and Sarajevo's dedicated drama strand, CineLink Drama, propels the industry forward. Anticipate audacious films as the Balkan cinema redefines itself, with the festival acting as a showcase and catalyst.

From August 11 to 18, the Sarajevo Film Festival reignites the Balkan cultural scene, led by CineLink Industry Days. Amid misty hills and resilient spirits, the hotel terrace becomes a stage for cinema's future.

Famous Birthdays on August 12th 🎂

Gal Gadot Shares Approach to Cleopatra Movie's Portrayal 🏜️

Gal Gadot provides an encouraging update regarding the progress of her forthcoming Cleopatra movie, shedding light on the complex considerations involved in respectfully portraying the iconic historical figure. Known primarily for her roles as Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe and her participation in the Fast & Furious franchise, Gadot's connection to Cleopatra dates back to 2020. Initially slated to be directed by Patty Jenkins, who directed Gadot in the Wonder Woman series, the movie's directorial duties have since been passed on to Kari Skogland. Despite this, information about the epic production centered on the enigmatic Queen of Egypt has been relatively sparse over the past few years.

In a recent interview with Flaunt, Gadot offers a glimpse into the reasons behind the movie's gradual development while underscoring the commitment to ensuring an accurate representation of Cleopatra. Gadot acknowledges that the endeavor of bringing Cleopatra to life on screen is a substantial undertaking that necessitates meticulous thought and care. She explains that the production team is taking its time with the project to effectively capture the essence of Cleopatra's character. Gadot reveals that the writing process has persisted both before and after a writer's strike, with esteemed writers like Laeta Kalogridis contributing to the script's refinement.

The historical significance of Cleopatra, combined with her complex legacy, underscores the importance of capturing her essence authentically and thoughtfully. Gadot's casting as Cleopatra initially sparked controversy, with allegations of whitewashing, a criticism that stemmed from misunderstandings regarding the character's ethnicity. Gadot, who hails from Israeli and Ashkenazi heritage, addressed these concerns, highlighting her respect and reverence for the role. She expressed a genuine interest in avoiding the perpetuation of misconceptions and false narratives about Cleopatra, particularly the historically inaccurate portrayal of her as a mere seductress and femme fatale.

The anticipation surrounding the Cleopatra movie is amplified by the multifaceted challenges associated with doing justice to her historical significance while navigating modern-day sensitivities. Given the complexity of Cleopatra's history, from her political achievements to the controversies and misconceptions that have surrounded her, Gadot's cautious and deliberate approach is both understandable and commendable. By offering this update, Gadot provides a reassuring glimpse into the movie's development, suggesting that it is likely to be a nuanced and carefully considered depiction of the remarkable queen.

Movies Released on August 12th 🎞️

George Lucas' Secretive Star Wars Sale to Disney 🌌

George Lucas' stealthy sale of Star Wars to Disney sent shockwaves through fans and the entertainment industry alike. In 2012, Disney acquired Lucasfilm for $4.05 billion, a move that not only marked the end of an era but set the stage for a new generation of storytelling. While the announcement of a sequel trilogy and spin-off movies ignited excitement, the transition brought unforeseen ripple effects that impacted ongoing Star Wars projects.

Actress Ashley Eckstein revealed during a Florida Supercon 2023 panel that a mere five individuals within Lucasfilm were privy to Lucas' sale plans. The revelation of this tightly-held secret underscored the magnitude of the shift and its far-reaching implications.

One immediate casualty of the acquisition was "Star Wars: The Clone Wars," a beloved animated series cut short in its prime. The abrupt cancellation left fans and creators in limbo, with a carefully planned eight-season narrative reduced to an incomplete story arc.

Kathleen Kennedy, now-Lucasfilm president, was among the select few informed about the sale, positioning her to shape the franchise's future. However, most Lucasfilm employees, including showrunner Dave Filoni, were left unaware. This secrecy aimed to protect ongoing projects' creative integrity.

Filoni's animation division, despite challenges, emerged as a beacon of consistency and excellence in the evolving Star Wars universe. It navigated the shifting landscape, showcasing resilience and responsiveness.

The clandestine sale serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between creative integrity and the seismic shifts that occur when a cherished franchise changes hands.

New Trailer / The Woman in the Wall ▶️

Still of the Day ⏸️