Kenny Ortega to direct 'Dirty Dancing' reboot

Does the world really need a "Dirty Dancing" remake? No, it does not. Still, some incompetent wannabe creative mind at Lionsgate thought it would be a fabulous idea, and believe it or not, the studio is moving forward with a reboot. Why, oh why?

Either way, musical man Kenny Ortega is set to direct the remake, which follows a chick falling for her dancing teacher. Apparently, the new film will "incorporate classic songs from the 1960s, hits from the original film and brand new compositions." Again, what's the point here?

Ortega most recently helmed "This is It," but he's also got the "High School Musical" flicks under his belt. Oh, and "The Cheetah Girls 2" as well. As it so happens, he was also the choreographer on the original film, which further explains why he got the gig.

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Photo of Tom Cruise in 'Rock of Ages'

The first photo of Tom Cruise in Adam Shankman's upcoming film "Rock of Ages" has hit the Web via TomCruise.com, and you can see it above. Cruise is rocking out as Stacee Jaxx in the movie that is currently scheduled to open June 1, 2012.

Chris D'Arienzo, who created the Off Broadway's musical the film is based on, wrote the adaptation. The story of "Rock of Ages" follows a man and a woman who fall in love at a rock club but later break apart because of the extravagance of the rock lifestyle.

Also part of the cast are Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Paul Giamatti, Mary J. Blige, Julianne Hough, Malin Akerman and Bryan Cranston. Who's ready to rock out? Btw, Shankman also directed "Hairspray."

Dolly Parton, Queen Latifah like 'Noise'

Todd Graff, whose first films were "Camp" and "Bandslam," is cooking up a new musical drama, and Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah are set to star in "Joyful Noise," which Alcon Entertainment is developing.

In a nutshell, the story follows two women banding together to save a gospel choir. Latifah plays a lady who becomes in charge of Pacashau Gospel Choir after the death of the director. Parton plays the widow.

Latifah starred in "Just Wright," "Valentine's Day" and "The Secret Life of Bees." As for Parton, her credits include "Steel Magnolias" and "Straight Talk." She also showed up on "Hannah Montana." (THR)

Christina Aguilera in mediocre 'Burlesque' trailer

It looks and sounds like a movie we've seen before. It stars Cher, who sounds like she's reading straight from her script. It also stars Christina Aguilera as a singer. Can "Burlesque" be any good? Well... maybe.

The first trailer for Steven Antin's upcoming musical drama is now online, and you can see it below. It's the traditional story of a waitress who works a club and ends up stealing the show on the big stage.

Aguilera plays a small-town girl who finds love and success in the club, and Cher plays the club owner. Stanley Tucci plays the manager, and Kristen Bell, Cam Gigandet, Alan Cumming co-star in "Burlesque."

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'Wicked' musical is coming to big screen

It looks like it's finally happening: "Wicked" is on its way to the big screen. Folks from the musical have already met with filmmakers, and it looks like Universal will try and get this one into production fast.

Deadline says several directors have already warmed up to the project, including J.J. Abrams, James Mangold, Ryan Murphy and Rob Marshall. Whoever ends up doing it, these are interesting choices!

"Wicked" the musical is based on Gregory Maguire's novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West." I had the chance to catch it on Broadway a few years ago, and yes, it's a cool story.

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Wonderful new trailer for 'Nine' is vibrant

I'm among those who absolutely adored Rob Marshall's prestigious musical "Chicago," and therefore, I'm really looking forward to his next spectacle "Nine," due in theaters everywhere Dec. 25, 2009.

A new feature trailer for the movie has debuted online, and I encourage you to check it out after the jump. No dialogue in this one, really, but instead, you're treated to great visuals and beautiful music.

In the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway show, Daniel Day-Lewis jumps into the role of Guido Contini, a high-profile director struggling to satisfy all the women in his life, including his wife and mistress.

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Two new clips from Jackson's 'This Is It' debut

The release date of Kenny Ortega's Michael Jackson concert documentary "This Is It" is approaching, and two new clips from the film have debuted on the Web. You can check out the musical pieces below.

The first clip shows Jackson rehearsing his "The Way You Make Me Feel," reminding the crew he has to cue a specific beat. Clip No. 2 shows the late pop star practicing some of his moves on stage.

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Movie Review: “Fame”

Seen on: September 28, 2009

The players: Director: Kevin Tancharoen, Writer: Allison Burnett, Cast: Kherington Payne, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle, Paul McGill, Asher Book, Kristy Flores

Facts of interest: Remake of the 1980 "Fame."

The plot: A bunch of youngsters try to survive four years at the prestigious New York City High School of Performing Arts.

Our thoughts: Sure, I’ll remember the name of this disappointing remake, but that’s about it already. I can’t say I’m surprised Kevin Tancharoen’s new version of the 1980 musical lacks energy and heart, and as forgettable as this film is, I also admit I didn’t find this big-screen experience to be as boring as I expected.

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Hugh Jackman goes musical for 'Showman'

Hugh Jackman's musical number as the host 81st Academy Awards has impressed the folks at 20th Century Fox, as the studio has recruited him to star in its upcoming "The Greatest Showman on Earth" musical.

Jackman will slip into the role of American entertainer P.T. Barnum, who promoted celebrated hoaxes and founded the three-ring circus.

Variety says the film will also look at his relationship with singer Jenny Lind, a role which is apparently being written for Anne Hathaway. You may remember her joining Jackman in his excellent Oscar act.

Jenny Bicks, whose credits include "Men in Trees" and "Sex and the City," will write the script, and Fox is apparently talking to singer Mika to write music and lyrics.

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Prestigious trailer for 'Nine' musical hits

The first official trailer for Rob Marshall's upcoming musical "Nine" recently debuted online, and you should definitely check it out below - it looks grand. Marshall also directed the Oscar-winning musical "Chicago," which I absolutely adored. Looking at this footage, I feel this one could be bound for critical acclaim as well.

In the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway show, Daniel Day-Lewis jumps into the role of Guido Contini, a high-profile director struggling to satisfy all the women in his life, including his wife and mistress. Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Marion Cotillard, Fergie, Kate Hudson and Sophia Loren co-star. "Nine" hits Nov. 25, 2009.

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