_ Author, Stephanie Meyer rose to international fame with the release of her novel series, “Twilight”. With the third of the movie adaptations of these books in the theatres now, you might think that Meyer is ready for some time-off. But, it is quite the opposite!  The author is now in pre-production for the film version of one of her other books, “The Host”. This science-fiction thriller tells the story of a time when human beings are invaded by an “unseen enemy” which forces them to lose control of their bodies, and in most cases, their minds. But protagonist, Melanie is a different kind of human. Her thoughts and memories affect the actions of the “Wander” that has taken over her body. This harrowing tale of Melanie’s past, and her painful struggle includes love, loss, and danger. So the movie will definitely have something for everyone!

Director, Andrew Niccol has signed on for the new adaptation of this novel. Niccol is an Academy Award nominated director, who has previously worked on the movies “Gattaca”, “The Truman Show” , “Lord of War”, and “The Terminal” .

Casting has already started in Los Angeles, and casting will begin here in Louisiana in the coming weeks. For more information about this movie, visit Meyer’s own site or reach this article on examiner.com… and definitely stay tuned into SCG for more casting news and extra opportunities!

In October, the city of New Orleans hosted its 22nd Annual Film Festival. This month, several of the films shown are making their television and big-screen debuts. Locally, two of the movies, “Take Shelter” and “The Big Fix” are already playing in theatres. But it is the October winner for best documentary, “Marathon Boy” that is scheduled to play on HBO in November- including their On-Demand channel! These recent success has got this Southern Celebrity Gossiper wondering… New Orleans Films- where are they now?

For winner “Goodnight Irene” the answer to that is the Golden Globes in Portugal! This film received the award there for best actor. The movie received the NOFF award for best narrative before earning the Golden Globe in ’09. Also, the independent film “How To Be”, which stars “Twilight”’s Robert Patterson received an audience award here in NOLA before going on to win two awards at the Washington D.C. Film Festival the following year. The movie helped Patterson to break away from his sultry role as a hunky Vampire- instead portraying a gawky, awkward 20-something going through a “quarter life crisis”. For more information on this movie and others that have participated in the New Orleans Film Festival, you should check out their website.

All and all, the local festival seems to be helpful in launching independent films both nationally, and internationally. This festival has also helped the movie industry grow here in New Orleans… which makes this city the perfect location for anyone aspiring to be in this creative field!

Source: Scene Magazine