Friday, December 09, 2011

Backstage Photos From ‘The Master' Emerge


It's been quite some time since we've seen anything from 'The Master,' well those of us that aren't Emily Watson anyway. During principal photography it looked like we'd be getting frequent peeks at the goings on of the film as reports of cast and costumed extras were rolling in. But (aside from the fact that filming having wrapped up months ago) there really hasn't been a single leak since Stellar Spa took down the pics back in June. Well today, thanks to BlackBook and set photographer Jack Erling, we have another behind-the-scenes look at the film. Take a look after the jump...

Robert Downey Jr. Talks ‘Inherent Vice'


Huge props to MTVNews for really using every excuse to ask people about PTA. A few weeks ago they cornered Rami Malek for some details on 'The Master' and today they've gotten a few good quotes out of Robert Downey Jr. about the rumors of their collaboration on 'Inherent Vice.' Now 'Vice' if you don't remember is an adaptation of Thomas Pynchon's novel about an L.A.-based private eye who takes on a case involving an ex-girlfriend, her real estate billionaire boyfriend and a kidnapping. Paul wrote the screenplay back in 2010 after running into trouble with 'The Master' financing and with Downey rumored to be attached, it looked as if 'Vice' had a good chance of going before cameras first.

But this was all before film saint Megan Ellison swooped in and Annapurna Pictures decided to finance both projects and Paul decided to rewrite 'The Master' and do that instead/first. Word has been quiet on the project while he's been busy on the aforementioned film so we can assume there hasn't really been any movement on it for some time. When asked about the project Downey didn't really confirm or deny but definitely seems anxious to work with Paul.
"Anything to do with Paul Thomas Anderson and I doing a movie together is probably true," Downey Jr. said. "We tend to talk about a variety of potential projects, and Thomas Pynchon's 'Inherent Vice' could be great, we'll see."

"I feel like I'm booked but I'm not. I make space for what I want to do," he said, adding that what he enjoys most about Anderson is the fact that he's talented and just darn likeable.
"I just think he's one of our great American directors, I just like hanging out with the guy."
Cross your fingers that with financing already in place and a script that should be ready to go, we won't be waiting another 5 years between films. That is of course, assuming that Paul doesn't decide he wants to rewrite it heavily or do something else entirely. (Thanks @angel_glands & Charlie for the heads up!)

Stay tuned to Twitter and Facebook. We have another little post about 'The Master' coming up in a few...

Tuesday, December 06, 2011

Diablo Cody ♥'s ‘Punch-Drunk Love' & PTA



Diablo Cody is a divisive figure in the film world. She won a screenwriting Oscar at 29 for her debut film -- the Jason Reitman directed "Juno" -- but quickly became the target of a backlash against the film's stylized dialogue and apparent "quirkiness." (For what it's worth, we actually liked it.) Cody and Reitman both went off and made other pictures but have reteamed once again for "Young Adult" featuring Charlize Theron as an author of teen novels who goes back to her hometown to reclaim her high school sweetheart. During the press rounds for the film Reitman, Cody, Theron and co-star Patton Oswalt (Delmer Darion himself) were asked which actor or director's they really admired and Cody called herself out as a PTA fan girl and professed her admiration for "Punch-Drunk Love" in particular. Read on (via Collider)...
Diablo Cody: I know a lot of people feel this way, so it’s not the most original answer. I’m the most insane unrepentant Paul Thomas Anderson fan girl. I’ve been watching actually Punch Drunk Love a lot lately. I really love that movie. To express that kind of truth in a film is to me so amazing. Even late last night I was watching this old video he directed for Fiona Apple and I was like I couldn’t even make a feature film as powerful as this three minute video. I just think he is awesome.

Patton Oswalt: I love the beginning of Magnolia, the thing about the dealer. That scene is genius. Brilliantly acted.
There you have it, she's just like us! We caught "Young Adult" the other night and thought was a very good film. Unflinchingly dark at times featuring a monster performance by Theron, it's probably also a career best for both Cody and Reitman and should serve to silence the haters. The film opens this Friday if you get a chance to see it or you can just pop in your 'PDL' dvd one more time while we wait for the Blu-ray.

As always, please follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Emily Watson Has Seen The First 30 Minutes Of ‘The Master,' Says Film Will Be Incredible



Moviefone sat down with "War Horse" star Emily Watson and while talking to her about her career, the conversation turned to her (magnificent) work in "Punch-Drunk Love." The actress mentioned that she'd love to work with Paul again and then let slip that she's actually seen the first 30 minutes of 'The Master.' Take it away, Emily...

One of my favorite movies is 'Punch-Drunk Love.'
[A big smile overcomes her face] Yeah. Me, too.

Were you at all hesitant to take that role? Not with P.T. Anderson, but maybe there was a concern about this being an Adam Sandler wacky comedy?
No, I knew. Paul came to me and said, "I'm doing this film with Adam and I'd like you to be in it." And the idea of the two of us in a room together tickled me pink. Just particularity where he was at and where I was at -- we were from different planets. And I thought, what a delicious idea.

You two should do another movie together.
I'd love to! I would love to do another movie.

I think people do miss the Sandler who pushed himself like that.
Yeah. And he had an incredible work ethic. We did hundreds of takes ... Well, not hundreds, but take after take after take. Adam just went at it, went at it, went at it. He completely gave over to being in a Paul Thomas Anderson movie. He gave himself over to it in a very self-effacing way. It's lovely.

And it's been so long since we've seen a Paul Thomas Anderson movie.
He has made one, I saw the first half an hour.

Of 'The Master'?
It's going to be incredible. I'm not going to say anything more on that. He'll kill me!

So the first half hour already exists?
Oh, yeah. Well ... they're editing.
Very, very exciting. Our fingers are still crossed there might be some sort of footage released before the end of the year but with likely a full 12 months to go before release we understand if Paul wants to keep a tight lid on things. But that doesn't mean we're not jealous.

As always, please follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Monday, December 05, 2011

Jonny Greenwood Returning To Score ‘The Master'



We had a feeling this would be the case but for some reason that doesn't make it any less thrilling to see it confirmed: Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood is returning to score 'The Master.' His work on "There Will Be Blood" was brilliant and undoubtedly one of the highlights of the film so it's an absolute joy to hear that he'll be back for another round. This news comes via a tweet on 12/2 by British record label Babel founder Oliver Weindling that said simply, "Zed-U recorded part of soundtrack for Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead last week. Film (by Paul Thomas Anderson) to appear in 2013." Zed-U is a British jazz trio signed to Mr. Weindling's label that are apparently being employed by Mr. Greenwood on the soundtrack. You can check out a few videos of the group below.






The one question we have in all of this: 2013?
A commenter has pointed out that it's likely true the films U.K. release would be in 2013 if it's still on track for a late 2012 U.S. release. Crisis averted. (Thanks for the headsup, Charlie and Dick!)

As always, please follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Praise For PTA Continues; Amy Adams Talks ‘The Master'



Well the unofficial press tour continues. Collider recently got a chance to sit down with Amy Adams and after their chat about "The Muppets" asked about her collaboration with PTA on 'The Master,' (a title which she did not correct, btw). Watch the clip and you can see her get visibly excited to talk about the experience.
Amy Adams: It was amazing. I have to say it feels like, it almost feels like it didn't happen. I know that sounds very strange to say but you kind of go into this world where you're so invested in the character and Joaquin [Phoenix] and Philip [Seymour Hoffman] are so amazing and you're just in it. It was just an amazing experience, enveloping and really transformative for me personally so I just hope that's on the screen. I mean it's Paul Thomas Anderson.

Collider: He's known for doing really long takes, did you get to do any of those famous long takes?

Amy: Yeah, yeah it was really fun.
Update 11/22: NYMag also spoke to the actress who managed to get another brief quote from Ms. Adams.
NYMag: I have to say, though, the film I'm most excited for is the one you just made with Paul Thomas Anderson ...
... which was an incredible experience.
NYMag: He directs so rarely ... what was that set like?
It's hard to talk about right now, because it was such a surreal experience. I had so many great moments on that set, working with Philip and Joaquin, who are so committed that they just pull you right in. It almost doesn't feel real. It feels like it was a dream, like it didn't really happen. But Paul's a lot funnier than I expected. He is! And I don't know what I expected, but it was a remarkable experience for me. It's my third film with Philip, so it's no secret that I totally love him and would do anything with him, but to get to work with him in this way was really a dream.
There you have it. Drips and drabs. So far we've gotten very tight lipped responses from about half the cast: Laura Dern, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rami Malek and now, Adams. Just think, it can't be too much longer before we get our first look at an actual frame of film. In the meantime you can follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Actor Rami Malek Calls The Experience Of Working With PTA Staggering



MTVNews caught up with "Twilight" actor Rami Malek at the premiere for the latest installment of the undead franchise and was thoughtful enough to ask about his involvement in the (still untitled?) PTA film. The MTV news correspondent (who, sidebar, goes to the same gym as me), called Paul "the greatest filmmaker alive" and tried digging for details on the film.
Malek: He, to work with is staggering. Staggering man. I play Philip Seymour Hoffman's son-in-law in the movie and... [it was] one of the best experiences of my life.

MTV: Not about Scientology, to put it to rest, right? [pause] Or is it?

Malek: I'm not allowed to talk about that one either. That's one I really have to keep tight-lipped on.

MTV: Okay, well I can't wait to see that one.

Malek: It's going to be really good.

MTV: I know it will, I know it will.
Thanks Xixax for the tip. We also noticed a small shoutout during Morgan's Spurlock product placement doc, "The Greatest Movie Ever Sold," where "Friday Night Lights" director Peter Berg cites Radiohead and Paul Thomas Anderson as being two artists who aren't going to compromise their art to appease brands. Trudat.

As much as we hate to give it any more attention, we should also mention that there was yet another incident recently where someone pretending to be Paul was trying to drum up some attention on Twitter even briefly dragging Julianne Moore into his shenannigans. Please ignore this kind of thing in the future as it's very unlikely that Paul is going to start tweeting in the first place and if he did, we'd be sure to give you a heads up.

In the meantime you can follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates. Please tell your friends.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

PTA Acts As A Minister; Producer Kevin Walsh Joined Cast of ‘The Master'



Not the news we expected to wake up to this morning, but hidden in a Variety article about one-time assistant to Scott Rudin, now producer Kevin Walsh is the following gem:
Walsh even inadvertently nabbed a plum acting role when he attended a wedding in which helmer Paul Thomas Anderson officiated as minister. Anderson liked Walsh's retro looks and cast him in his upcoming period drama "The Master."
We would have loved to be at that reception. Anyone have pics? (via xixax)

On a completely unrelated note, if you've ever wondered what Paul looked like in high school click here. And as always, stay tuned on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

PTA Moderates ‘Hugo' Q&A! Updated ‘Master' Synopsis! More!



It may not be terribly exciting, actually it's even less interesting than the one that debuted over the summer, but the above image is a brand new promo poster for Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Project which was spotted at the American Film Market by Collider. The site has also brought us a (slightly modified) synopsis:
Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Paul Thomas Anderson (the acclaimed director of, There Will Be Blood, Magnolia and Boogie Nights), this story stars Academy Award winner Philip Seymour Hoffman (Capote) and Academy Award-nominee Joaquin Phoenix (Walk the Line). Set in America in the years following World War II, a charismatic intellectual (Hoffman) launches a faith-based organization and taps a young drifter (Phoenix) as his right-hand man. But as the faith begins to gain a fervent following, the onetime vagabond finds himself questioning the belief system he has embraced, and his mentor. A truly one-of-a-kind drama, which promises magnetic virtuoso performances, the film marks the fifth collaboration between Anderson and Hoffman, following Hard Eight, Boogie Nights, Magnolia, and Punch Drunk Love.
Now many of you are probably asking, why is it being billed as "Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Project" after we thought it had been titled "The Master" back in June? Well, we're not sure actually. In June @TheInsneider at Variety said it was confirmed (and we figured Variety was a pretty legit source) but it seems very possible that may not be the final title after all or maybe Paul's just keeping his options open. It would definitely be a little strange at this point to start referring to it as something else, especially after a year of it being "The Master" but trust in Paul, all will be revealed.


Tuesday, November 01, 2011

Albert Brooks Turned Down Burt Reynolds Part In ‘Boogie Nights'


It's always fun to think about the things that might have been, particularly when it comes to casting. We already know that Paul had originally wanted Leonardo DiCaprio for Dirk Diggler in "Boogie Nights" but according to a recent interview with Collider, it looks like Albert Brooks (seen most recently in this year's excellent "Drive") says he had to turn down the part of Jack Horner because he was in preproduction on his own movie (looks like either "Mother" or "The Muse").
Is there a part over the last decade or two that you were offered that you turned down and still think about?
Brooks: Well, I turned down so many parts. I couldn’t even begin to tell you. Dead Poets Society and Big and Pretty Woman. One part that I actually wanted to play, and I was in pre-production of my own movie, just because I thought I wanted to work with Paul [Thomas Anderson] was the part that Burt Reynolds got in Boogie Nights. I liked that whole ensemble. When I read that script, I really liked it. But I couldn’t stop, I couldn’t shut down what I was doing. But, regrets are stupid; they don’t mean anything and they don’t add up to anything.

No new news on "The Master" front. But you can check out "The Master" cast here. And for some reason if you like sitting through commercials, AMC is airing "There Will Be Blood" this Saturday where it will be edited and likely still 4 hours long.
Stay tuned on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Laura Dern Talks ‘The Master,' Working With PTA



As you know, things have been very quiet on "The Master" front for quite some time now. Principal photography is finished and the cast have all moved on to other projects. But lucky for us, those projects will inevitably include interviews in which some intrepid journalist will ask the actor in question about the mysterious 'Master.' Actress Laura Dern, who plays a still unknown role in the film, is currently promoting her new HBO series "Enlightened" when she was asked by The Press Assocation (whatever that is) about her experience on the project.
"It's an amazing experience. Joaquin's such an incredible actor and Philip Seymour Hoffman was in the film, they're doing such incredible work. I think [Paul's] so brilliant and one of our most important visionaries ever in film."
And there you have it, the vault once again becomes sealed. As always, more information when it arrives.

Tuesday, October 04, 2011

Ambyr Childers Joined ‘The Master' As Elizabeth



You may have noticed it's been a while since our last update but fear not, we have not gone on hiatus. The film, which wrapped up principal photography a few months ago, is now in post-production which means Paul and co. have basically gone into hiding. But just believe that it's killing us as much as it's killing you. But to tide you over until we see some sort of official look at the film, we do have a bit of late-casting news via The Playlist. Ambyr Childers, a vet of daytime soap "All My Children" was cast as Elizabeth, the daughter of Lancaster Dodd (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) in the film. You can now see her in our updated "The Master" cast.

In other news, The AV Club recently had an interview with "Hung" star Thomas Jane. He talks about peeing in Paul's lawn and choosing to do a Gene Hackman movie over a second role in "Magnolia." You will probably want to read it.

If you've been following our Twitter account you'd already know that you might want to check out "Elmer Gantry" for a bit of inspiration. Carry on and stay tuned on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Monday, September 12, 2011

‘The Master' Wraps, Probably Isn't About Scientology Still





















One of the single, most common things in sports is having the general manager come out publicly and start insisting that whatever rumor about this player or that manager is dominating the press is 100% not happening or untrue. And then a week or two later, whatever was reported usually happens.

At a wrap-party for Ides Of March, one of the writers from Hollywood Elsewhere caught up with Philip Seymour Hoffman (allegedly known as "Philly" in that group) and he asked him directly about some of the endless Master/Scientology reports. Their conversation:
PSH: "It's not a scientology film."
HE: "But I've read an early draft and it seems to be about a Scientology-like cult...and I've read about the parallels."
PSH: "I don't know what you've heard and what script you've read...Trust me, it's not about Scientology."
So there you have it officially from The Master's mouth. It is, or is not, about Scientology. Sleep well until around December when we'll actually have the answer and perhaps the first teaser trailer.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

It's A Boy!



Major congratulations are in order to Paul & Maya on the birth of their first son, Jack. Congrats guys! People Magazine writes...
The Bridesmaids star, 38, and director Paul Thomas Anderson welcomed their third child, son Jack, on July 3, her rep tells PEOPLE.

Jack – who is home and doing great – joins big sisters Pearl, 5½, and Lucille, 20 months.

While pregnant, Rudolph said she was especially excited to discover the sex of the baby, which she and Anderson chose not to find out prior to the delivery.

"The exciting part is not knowing who's coming," she explained. "You have to wait nine months for a surprise, but then it's a good payoff because it really is a surprise."
Feel free to leave them some well wishes in the comments on the off-chance that they might read them. Though we can only imagine how stressful it is having a baby while filming your movie, things have been very quiet since "The Master" moved to LA. The only thing of note we've come across is a short piece on Hollywood Elsewhere that points out the script's similarities to Herman Melville. Very interesting indeed.
Once again, congrats to Paul & Maya from C&RV and stay tuned on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates (and babies).

Friday, July 08, 2011

Sound Mixer Michael Semanick Talks ‘Magnolia,' ‘There Will Be Blood'



Quiet week for news on "The Master" as we hear filming has moved to LA for the remainder of the shoot so it looks like we've seen the last of our set images until Paul decides to release one of his own. If you follow us on Twitter you'll see we had heard from one of the extras working on the final days of the Bay Area shoot that Paul was "very hands-on, very present" while filming and not content to hang out in video village.

In lieu of any new news, site contributor Zablotny recently pointed us to this video interview with two time Academy Award winning Sound Mixer Michael Semanick who has worked with Paul on all of his films since "Magnolia." You can check out the full video above though we've transcribed the PTA-related bits. At about the 32:45 mark, Michael spoke a little bit about working with Paul on "There Will Be Blood"

Thursday, June 30, 2011

‘Hollywood Comes To Berkeley' Video From The Set Emerges



Things are still very quiet on "The Master" set as virtually no images of principal cast members have leaked out despite filming in residential communities full of people. And if they don't emerge soon we may not see them for quite some time as we hear the production is gearing up to move from the Bay Area back to LA for the remainder of the shoot. But thanks to Xixax we do have this little video about the production along with a short article over at Berkely Side (which you may have seen on our Twitter earlier this week). No real revelations here though the video does feature a somewhat hilarious mix-up of PSH's name.

They've also uncovered a few pictures from the archives of Paul at the Sundance Labs in 1993 and 2000 (2). We're sure you will find them as amusing as we do.

Check out "The Master" cast.
Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

First Look At Fiona Dourif; More Photos From The Set


Despite weeks of filming on "The Master," only a few pictures have leaked out from the set and until now the only actors that have appeared have been extras. Above you have your first look at a principal cast member as we believe that's actress Fiona Dourif (whose role is still unspecified). In a case of mistaken identities that recalled the great "Vincent Froio incident of 2006," these images were initially posted on an Amy Adams fansite yesterday morning (where we first saw them) as well as a few gossip blogs. But The Film Stage was first to correct their mistake so you can head over there for a larger look at these photos.

You may have noticed that the local spa that had proven to be quite an inside source for updates has suddenly vanished (along with all the posts in question), so we don't imagine we'll be seeing any future updates from them. We did however come across a few more set pics in the Mare Island Yardbird and it's nothing we haven't seen before, just another look at the mansion, some extras and some cars but you can check them out after the jump courtesy photographer Kim Kulish:

Happy Birthday To Mr. Paul Thomas Anderson



Despite it being Paul's birthday -- no, we didn't forget -- we here at The Vines thought you should be the one to receive wonderful things for coming back and finding us. And this clip, which is essentially additional That Moment-esque footage, is very much that and more. The highlight naturally being Paul providing a "Smiling Peanut" state-of-the-union to everyone on location.

Happy birthday from us. Thank you for everything.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

‘The Master' Shooting Exclusively In 65mm?



We recently received an unconfirmed tip from a source close to production who told us "The Master" isn't utilizing a mix of 65mm and 35mm as previously suspected but instead is shooting exclusively in 65mm. We realize you may need a minute to compose yourselves as we did when we first heard the news but HOLY SHIT. If this report turns out to be true then we're all in for one stunning looking film. Additionally, The South Wing tumblr posted the above image which apparently is the camera Stanley Kubrick used on "2001: A Space Odyssey" which you already know is the same camera currently being used by Paul Thomas Anderson on "The Master." You can read a bit more about the 65mm format at Wikipedia.

Update: Since posting this article only a short while ago, another source close to the production has assured us that it's a split format shoot (both 35mm and 65mm). Whichever turns out to be true, we're sure it'll still be a beautiful looking film. Carry on.


Friday, June 17, 2011

2 More Join To The Cast; Film Now Officially Titled ‘The Master'



Just as we were winding down for the week comes a late breaking bit of Friday news. According to Variety two more actors have come aboard the Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Project. Josh Close (TV's "The Unusuals") will play one of the Master's leading disciples while Fiona Dourif (HBO's "True Blood," daughter of Brad Dourif) has an undisclosed role. We might speculate again that she is playing the elder daughter, 19 year old Elizabeth (though Dourif is 29, she could probably pass for 19 more than Madisen Beaty who is only 16) but again, that's just pure speculation. Interesting to note that in earlier incarnations of the film Paul had been interested in Deborah Ann Woll (also of HBO's "True Blood"), for an unspecified role so it's either a complete coincidence or he's a fan of the show (though this writer can't imagine why). Also of interest is that Close costarred in the show "The Unusuals" in 2009 with Jeremy Renner, who was of course, long attached to the role of Freddie.

In other news it appears the film has a title. The Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Project/Untitled Religious Drama/Untitled Scientology Film usually referred to as 'The Master' will officially be titled...

"The Master"

We think we can get used to that. Read the article below.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Cars! Extras! Costumes! More Photos Arrive From ‘The Master' Set

Looks like the folks over at the Stellar Spa blog are becoming a pretty reliable news source as filming continues on 'The Master.' They've just posted the second batch of behind-the-scenes images from the film with the promise of more to come. While still no sign of anyone in the main cast, these are quite a step up from the first batch, giving us a better look at the post-war era in which the film takes place. We've included a snippet of their post below and you can check out the rest of the images after the jump (at your own discretion of course).
The first set of dock worker extras moved onto the set and rehearsed their scenes. At the same time we were told a scene inside one of historic brick building offices was being shot with Joaquin Phoenix. After a couple of short dock scenes were shot, a second set of extras moved into position to board the Potomac for what appeared to be a cocktail party. At about 10:30 “all quiet” was sounded and the scene rolled. Back-in-the-day music blared, the boat horn blew, trucks rolled by, the boat launched, the party rolled on and “cut”. There you have it.
After the scene shot we spotted Philip Seymour Hoffman walking from the set dressed in a dapper greenish colored suit towards catering to sit down for dinner with who else... Amy Adams. How cool. We never made it to “it’s a wrap” that night and I feel for the cast and crew who hit the pillow the next morning probably about the time we were making coffee.
Yesterday we were privy to seeing the "talent" in action at one of the historic mansions being used as a set. Since we were up close, we have some great tidbits, etc. about the acting from Philip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Pheonix, Amy Adams, David Warshofski and Laura Dern. Stay tuned for more tidbits from Stellar Spa & Dana and Patrick Vandeweg...


Tuesday, June 14, 2011

First Images Leak From ‘The Master' Closed Set

Thanks to a local Spa, some images have leaked out from the closed set of 'The Master.' If you've been paying attention to our Twitter feed, you already know that the first dispatch from Mare Island, where the film is shooting came last week with a report of filming at sea. Might be slightly spoilery for those who want to go in clean, so click at your own risk.

Thursday, June 09, 2011

Mihai Malaimare Jr. Is Shooting ‘The Master'; 65mm Will Be Used



We've heard the rumors for a while now, starting with a comment on our Elswit story, but we've now received a tip from a source close to production that confirms Mihai Malaimare Jr. is the cinematographer on 'The Master.' The DP previously worked with Francis Ford Coppola on "Youth Without Youth," "Tetro" and the forthcoming "Twixt Not And Sunrise" all of which were shot digitally. But not to worry, 'The Master' is shooting on film and if our source is correct, there will be 65mm. If you're not familiar with his work, we've included a short behind-the-scenes video from "Tetro" and a Sony spot both featuring the DP at work. This will be Paul's first feature without longtime DP Robert Elswit, who was already scheduled to work on the new 'Mission: Impossible' and 'Bourne' films.




Check out 'The Master' cast.
Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Jack Fisk Confirmed As Production Designer For ‘The Master'



In a recent interview with Box Office Magazine, legendary production designer Jack Fisk ("The Tree of Life," "Mulholland Drive"), who first worked will Paul on "There Will Be Blood," confirms he's returned for 'The Master.' He's been listed on IMDB for some time but it's not always the most accurate reference for films just entering production. Here is the relevant bit from the interview...

So your brain is fully occupied?
Yeah. I'm working with Paul Thomas Anderson right now and he's also a wonderful director.
How is this process different?
It's a lot different because Terry and he just work differently. They work differently with the actors, they work differently with light and the way things look. But they both give me a amount of freedom which is something that attracts me to these directors. Not that I need freedom or I demand that-it's just the way I work. I first worked with Paul on There Will be Blood and he asked me about building an oil derrick and how was I going to do it and I said I had no idea. But, you know, he's like that. He'll figure out a way. And that's the way with Terry. I often say about Terry, "He asks for nothing, but expects everything," and that's the advice I give to new people working with him. Terry won't ask you for a lot but that's why he's exciting to work withI love Terry's energy and passion and that's what I think I look for with any filmmakers or even in wardrobe or grips. I just love people with passion and when I started in film, there was so much passion. And then when I was working in Hollywood, it was just boring for 15 years. And when Terry came back to doing film, I just approached it differently and didn't fall into the traps about worrying about your home and your penalties and what you couldn't do, but just start thinking about all the stuff you could do. And I've had so much fun. I'm so excited about production design and I'm just beginning to appreciate how important it is to movies. It's hard to make a film because you have so many people involved and when you find people you work well with you want to keep working with them.
Check out the full interview with Fisk at the site. As you know, the film started shooting recently so there should be lots more news to come.
Check out 'The Master' cast.
Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011

‘The Master' Begins Filming; Set For Late 2012 Release



The day has come. Despite earlier reports that shooting was set to begin June 13, it appears (from reports on Twitter and the IMDB boards) that filming has indeed begun on Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Film a.k.a. 'The Master'. Shooting may have begun about a week ago but it's difficult to discern the actual start date as the production is being kept tightly under wraps. Shooting locations are described only as taking place on "some waterfront and some older buildings." Fansite Joaquin Phoenix Central has received reports of Phoenix being spotted around Vallejo and also links to an article in the Vallejo Times-Herald with a few choice bits of information from Paul's longtime producer Joanne Sellar.

Playing down it's reputation as a "Scientology film," Sellar described it as "a World War II drama. It's about a drifter after World War II." The producer said location work will continue through June before the production returns to LA for the remainder of filming. She also expects the film to have a "late 2012" release. We're really not sure where those 2013 rumors came from but you can probably forget about them now. The article also includes a tiny picture of some vintage cars parked along a small residential street with the caption "Crews film with vintage cars lining Winslow Street in Crockett, Calif., on June 3, 2011." So it looks like that's our first official (unofficial) set picture.

But with the news that filming has finally begun, we'd just like to take a second to enjoy this moment. As most of you know, it's been a long time coming. And we're not just talking about the 3 1/2 years since "There Will Be Blood." This project was first announced 18 months ago by Variety on December 2, 2009 and for a while it was looking like it might not happen at all. But now finally, it's becoming a reality and nobody could be as excited about it as we are. We're just glad we could share it with you. It's on, folks.

Check out 'The Master' cast.
Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Saturday, June 04, 2011

Here Is Your ‘The Master' Cast



With tons of casting news going on recently we thought it might be interesting to see how the cast was shaping up. So here, for easy reference, is your cast of Paul Thomas Anderson's 6th film, "The Master."

Synopsis:
A man who returns after witnessing the horrors of WWII and tries to rediscover who he is in post-war America. He creates a belief system, something that catches on with other lost souls.



Philip Seymour Hoffman: Lancaster Dodd a.k.a. The Master, a charismatic intellectual who, after witnessing the horrors of WWII, creates a belief system designed to catch on with other lost souls in post-war America.

Joaquin Phoenix:
Freddie Sutton, an alcoholic drifter who becomes The Master's right-hand man and disciple.



Amy Adams: Mary-Sue Dodd, Lancaster's wife.
Laura Dern: Helen



Lena Endre: Mrs. Solstad
David Warshofski: A detective.



Jesse Plemons: Val Dodd, Lancaster's son.
Rami Malek: Clark, son-in-law of Lancaster Dodd, married to their sassy 19 year old daughter Elizabeth.



Madisen Beaty: Doris Solstad
Josh Close: Wayne, a leading disciple of Lancaster Dodd, a.k.a. The Master.



Fiona Dourif: (unknown)
Ambyr Childers: Elizabeth, Lancaster's daughter

additional cast:

Kevin J. O'Connor ... Bill White
W. Earl Brown ... Bus
Darren Le Gallo ... Master's dinner guest
Jillian Bell ... Susan
Katie Boland ... Young Woman
Josh Fadem ... Young Man
Mimi Cozzens ... Poppy
Bill Blair ... Man At the Bar
Jennifer Neala Page ... Winn Manchester
Martin Dew ... Norman Conrad
Dan Brown ... Navy Buddy
Matthew Skomo ... Navy XO
Barlow Jacobs ... James Sullivan
Jill Andre ... Beatrice
Franklin Ruehl ... Follower
Aaron Farb ... unknown
Kevin J. Walsh ... unknown
Brian Fong ... Filipino Farm Laborer
James Barbour ... Master's Cadet
Lourdes Nadres ... Filipino
Mike Howard ... VA Doc
Frank Bettag ... Sick Old Man (as Dr. Frank Bettag)
Jesse Soares ... US Army Veteran
Joe Foley ... Phoenix Follower
Harold Rudolph ... Follower
Terry Lane ... Hiring Hall Dispatcher
Nicholas Cederlind ... Sailor
Paul Yeatman ... Follower

We'll try to keep this page updated as additional casting announcements and details are released for easy reference.

Writer/Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
Executive Producers: Ted Schipper
Producers: Paul Thomas Anderson, Megan Ellison, Daniel Lupi, JoAnne Sellar
Cinematographer: Mihai Malaimare Jr.
Production Design: Jack Fisk, David Crank
Editing: Peter McNulty
Casting: Cassandra Kulukundis
Set Decoration: Amy Wells
Costume Design: Mark Bridges

Check out the full credits on IMDB.

The film will be released on October 12, 2012.

Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Madisen Beaty Joins ‘The Master'

According to The Film Stage 16 year old actress Madisen Beaty (whose most notable credit is playing 10 year old Daisy in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button") has joined the cast of 'The Master' and we can't say that we're surprised. Though it's unclear what role she's signed on for, some have speculated she might be playing Hoffman's character's 19 year old daughter but she seems a few years young for that part. It is worth noting that when Amy Adams was cast in the film we asked, "Can Madisen Beaty be far behind?"as it now appears that every actress mentioned in Deadline's initial story that Paul was "interested in" have now been officially cast. Amy Adams, Laura Dern, Lena Endre and Beaty have all come aboard this week. So while we're sure there are still lots of parts left to cast, they'll be coming from a new pool of names. Also interesting to note as the cast is filling out that only Hoffman and David Warshofsky have worked with Paul before while the rest are all first timers. If you are so inclined you can follow Madisen on Twitter at @madisenofficial.

As always, stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Friday, June 03, 2011

Newcomer Rami Malek Joins ‘The Master,' Additional Details Revealed

Happy Friday everyone. We had a great deal of casting news this week but we aren't done yet. Variety reports that relative newcomer Rami Malek (HBO's "The Pacific") has signed onto the still untitled (but for brevity's sake just called 'The Master') religious drama. Malek will play the son-in-law of the Master (Philip Seymour Hoffman), married to the 19 year old daughter of Hoffman's and Amy Adams's characters.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011

Yep, Amy Adams Also Joins ‘The Master'

They really are starting to fall just like dominoes. Oscar nominated actress (and future Lois Lane) Amy Adams has joined the cast of (the project usually referred to as) 'The Master.' Can Madisen Beaty be far behind? From Deadline...

EXCLUSIVE: Amy Adams has formally been set to star in Paul Thomas Anderson's untitled film, which begins production later this month. She will play the wife of the character played by Philip Seymour Hoffman. He plays a man who returns from witnessing the horrors of WWII, and in an attempt to find himself, he forms a belief system that catches on in the 1950s. Deadline revealed in early May that Adams was being courted. Joaquin Phoenix has also been set to play the faith leader's right-hand man, and I've heard there have been conversations with The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo's Lena Endre and Laura Dern for other roles. The Weinstein Company acquired worldwide distribution rights to the film last month just before the Cannes Film Festival. Megan Ellison is producing through her Annapurna Productions banner, along with JoAnne Sellar and Daniel Lupi, with Ted Schipper exec producing.
Adams is coming off her Oscar-nominated turn in The Fighter, and she will do this film before starting production on Man of Steel, playing Lois Lane in the Zack Snyder-directed Superman franchise reboot. Adams will next be seen in the Walter Salles-directed On The Road, which is being shopped for domestic distribution, and Disney's Muppets. She's repped by Brillstein Entertainment Partners and WME.
Adams will play the wife of Philip Seymour Hoffman's character, Lancaster Dodd (which was the part that had been speculated for both Dern and Endre, so there's no telling what roles they are filling.) Either Deadline is a day behind the news or they just refuse to acknowledge another source as Dern and Endre have already been confirmed by Variety and The Playlist. But they've been right so far on their initial casting speculation.

As usual, stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Casting Continues: Swedish Actress Lena Endre Joins ‘The Master'

When it rains, it pours. Coming hot on the heels of yesterday's triple-casting news, today brings one more name to the table: Swedish actress Lena Endre ("The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" trilogy). The scoop comes via The Playlist who reached out to the actresses reps. With filming set to begin in just under 2 weeks expect more news of this type in the coming days. Endre was one of the actresses mentioned about a month ago earmarked for the film and it looks like if this continues Amy Adams and Madisen Beaty shouldn't be far behind? We had speculated yesterday that Dern was set for Hoffman's character's wife but with no confirmation it's possible either actress might have the role with the other taking on some other role entirely. Any guesses? Sound off in the comments.

Stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Laura Dern Also Cast In ‘The Master'

Whoops, looks like we (and most other sites) skimmed right over this little nugget of casting info. According to the same Variety article posted earlier today, actress Laura Dern has also joined the film (presumably) as Hoffman's character's wife.
Joaquin Phoenix and Laura Dern co-star, with the former playing an alcoholic drifter who becomes his right-hand man and disciple.
Though the article states this as a fact, this is the first official confirmation we're hearing about Dern joining the film. The last time the actress was mentioned for the role was about a month ago and that was still speculation amongst several other names for the wife/daughter roles (Amy Adams, Lena Endre, and Madisen Beaty). But great news nonetheless as anyone who saw Dern's stellar performance in David Lynch's "Inland Empire" can attest.

That's all for today (we think). Carry on.

And stay tuned to Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

Jesse Plemons & David Warshofsky Join ‘The Master'

Things are really starting to happen now. According to Variety, two actors have joined PTA's upcoming still-untitled religious drama (still being referred to as 'The Master'). Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman will be joined by PTA first timer Jesse Plemons (who "Friday Night Lights" fans will recognize as Landry Clarke) and character actor David Warshofsky who appeared briefly as H.M. Tilford in "There Will Be Blood." According to the trade, Plemons will be playing Hoffman's characters son while Warshofsky will be playing a detective. Having not read either draft of the script, this writer couldn't be more excited to see how they figure into the story.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Flashback Friday: PTA & John C. Reilly

Today's Flashback Friday features an interview between Paul and "his favorite actor" John C. Reilly circa January 2000 in Movieline magazine. Enjoy!

Life of Reilly

A conversation between Boogie Nights director Paul Thomas Anderson and his favorite actor, John C. Reilly, reveals what it’s like for Reilly to be starring in Anderson’s new Magnolia, which features a supporting player named Tom Cruise.

John C. Reilly is an unsung hero of American movies. The appealingly grizzled, gruff-looking 34-year-old has given indelible performance in movies like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Dolores Claiborne, Georgia, Boogie Nights, The Thin Red Line and For the Love of the Game without attaining critical-darling status the way a showier actor might have. Reilly’s cult following is made up of those who appreciate an absolute natural. It isn’t so much that you don’t catch him making a false move. It’s more like you don’t catch him acting. Reilly’s biggest Hollywood fan is Paul Thomas Anderson, the writer/director who has used him most astutely to date, first in Hard Eight, then in Boogie Nights, and now in his new film, Magnolia. Anderson has such confidence in Reilly that, even though Tom Cruise is also in the movie, Reilly is the film’s romantic lead. What better person to interview Reilly than the director who sees so much in him?
Paul Thomas Anderson: I first became aware of you when I saw your first movie Casualties of War. Then you worked with Sean Penn again in We’re No Angels and State of Grace and I thought you were almost his sidekick, but also a really good actor.

John C. Reilly: It was like, would you like an entrée of Sean Penn with a side of John C. Reilly? Although I got along well with Sean as an actor, I purposely didn’t spend a lot of personal time with him and I didn’t want people to think that I was getting parts because I was his friend. By the time we did The Thin Red Line together, we were fucking sick and tired of each other and were like, “Oh, you old woman, just leave me alone.”

Q: Your first branch-off from Penn was Days of Thunder, which was with Tom Cruise, and now you’re in Magnolia together.

A: I love Tom and think he’s a great actor, but at the time it was all about working with Robert Duvall. That movie was a bizarre experience. I was coming off serious movies and suddenly there’s Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer in their fucking heyday like Sodom and Gomorrah. It was a fall from grace for me as a young man to see the decadence that movie and Hollywood at its most extreme - $100,000 parties and recruiting girls off the beach to come be extras. It was nuts.

Q: Actually, between Days of Thunder and Magnolia, you starred in the short film Tom directed for Showtime’s series Fallen Angels, “The Frightening Frammis.” Tom told me he was concerned he wouldn’t get you for his movie, and I was concerned I wouldn’t get you for Hard Eight because you were too big a star to do it.

A: Which is so the opposite of my pathetic life. I was told Tom wanted to meet me, but it seemed like he didn’t doubt at all I was gonna do it. He was like, “OK, we’re starting on Wednesday, could you comb your hair down?”

Q: So, how does it feel now to be the star of a Tom Cruise movie?

A: It didn’t cross my mind. I’m glad it didn’t, because it would have been more pressure. I just felt like I was part of this huge jigsaw.

Q: Do you feel excited about being “the character actor who gets the girl” in the movie?

A: The thing is, you seemed to be writing for me before we even knew each other. I felt like we were already on the same wavelength when we met.

Q: How would you describe the differences in shooting Hard Eight, Boogie Nights and Magnolia?

A: Hard Eight was like we billed somebody’s rich uncle and were getting away with some crazy scheme out in the desert and had to finish before anyone figured out what happened. Gwyneth Paltrow was fairly new in the movie business and it was exciting, all of us giddy with getting to know each other. We knew we were doing a good, original movie. By Boogie Nights, we already had our groove on. This really felt like we were in the big time. One great thing about the three characters I’ve played in your movies is that they’re so committed to the dream of their life, they’re just unshakable. There’s something really poignant and funny about people like that.

Q: What about the vibe on Magnolia?

A: You just took it to the next level and came into your own. There were certain aspects of Boogie Nights that, because of its size, seemed like you were kinda playing it by ear. On Magnolia, it was like, “All right, I don’t have to play it by ear. I know what I like to say and the ways to say it.” It was a very intricate masterwork and you pulled it off.

Q: The character I wrote for you stems from the summer a movie project was taken away from me. In our restlessness, we did video improvs of faux Cops episodes with you and Philip Seymour Hoffman. That’s how the dialogue and characters were created, directly from the improvs – it was a character you’d already lived with for two years.

A: Those improv videos were so great because we were just having a blast. The guy became more grounded in your script.

Q: Remember you once asked me, “Come on, man, can’t you write me a sunrise where I get the fucking girl?” It’s kind of a romantic leading man, right?

A: You did this with a few people in Magnolia – tapped into what’s real not just for the characters, but for the people playing them. In the beginning, it was kind of a joke: “Be careful what you say around Paul, it’ll end up in the movie.” Now, that’s just become a given. But I can’t be “cool John” in front of you. I lay it on the line. I say stupid shit to people. I don’t try to hide my personality at all.

Q: Do you think you’ll get to a point where you just don’t do any publicity?

A: If a project’s success depends on your promoting it, you should promote it. I’m just like an Irish bullshit artist from way back, so I don’t mind. It’s kind of like therapy. puff-piece therapy. There’s this code of silence on a press junket, like you just talk about how great your costars were and how Kevin Costner wasn’t a total prick.

Q: A portion of me thinks that the true appreciation of your work won’t happen until your movies are playing on AMC 40 years from now, a sort of “He was the fucking greatest,” sort of like looking back now on Elisha Cook Jr. or someone.

A: I think I’m appreciated by people who watch movies to the degree that they don’t know who I am from movie to movie. That’s actually a compliment. Some people think I’m just stupid for this, but I try think in long-term goals, to do work that I can be proud of in 10, 20 years, not just disposable crap that made everyone chuckle in the moment.

Q: [Sardonically] And what’s the name of the movie you’re making – The Perfect Storm?

A: Good movie, man. A good character in this movie. Wolfgang Petersen’s directing it. I just want it to be Das Boot, not Air Force One.

Q: Anyway, hopefully this is the last movie we’ll ever make together. I met Oliver Platt today.

A: Hey, I’m just trying to become the Michael Caine/Gene Hackman of my generation.

If you follow us on Twitter and Facebook you will already know that according to SFist, 'The Master' will begin filming in the Bay Area, specifically Vallejo "with some shooting at sea." So stay tuned, it sounds like we should have some really exciting stuff coming up soon.

Friday, May 20, 2011

PTA Suggested Kirsten Dunst To Lars Von Trier For ‘Melancholia'

A quick bit of Friday news for you all. As you may be aware, the Cannes Film Festival is underway in France right now and filmmakers/provacateur/friend of PTA, Lars Von Trier has gotten himself into a bit of trouble over some remarks he made during a press conference. But we're not here to talk about what is presumably a misunderstanding from the troublemaking auteur, we're here to mention that he got the idea for his latest leading lady from Paul! According to an interview with Von Trier for Indiewire...

So you ended up casting Kirsten Dunst, who gives a great performance. Had you seen her in something like “Spiderman”?
I have seen her in several things, but I had had a long discussion with Paul Thomas Anderson years ago about this project, and he suggested her. And she was available.
So there you have it. While we're not sure how the pair know each other, it's cool to see Paul recommend the actress even though the duo have yet to work together.
In other non-news, if you missed it at the end of our last post we rather cryptically suggested checking out John Huston's 1979 religious satire, "Wise Blood." While we can't confirm it as an official DVD pick, it seems there may be a few surface similarities in that film and what we know about 'The Master' project so far. So if you're into that kind of thing, the film is available on Hulu+ and Netflix from the Criterion Collection.
So, happy Friday. And as always, you can get the latest news on Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

‘The Master' Cannes Promo Art, Filming In The Bay Area?

A few small tidbits here since we've all been waiting so patiently for the last week. First up is a look at some promo art for "Untitled Paul Thomas Anderson Project" which was unveiled at Cannes (and you can check out below). Likely whipped up in no time at all (since no filming has taken place yet) by someone (intern) at The Weinstein Co. to help sell the film to foreign distributors during the international film festival, the image is nonetheless exciting because it means that after nearly 4 years the project is actually happening. It's definitely a little familiar stylistically so don't expect the actual teaser poster to look anything like this.

According to some rumors on the imdb boards, (usually never to be trusted, but these seem fairly credible), an untitled film is looking for 40's/50's era extras in the San Francisco Bay Area to film in the small town of Crockett, CA in June. This seems to jibe with what we've heard about the film so far, so it's definitely a possibility and if anyone has any further info please send it along. (via @imdbLive and xixax.)

And as always, you can get the latest news on Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook.

P.S.: What do you know about this?

Monday, May 09, 2011

‘The Master' To Shoot This June With Joaquin Phoenix & Philip Seymour Hoffman

Hold on to your butts, this is probably the biggest news day of the year. According to Deadline, the stars have aligned and the project informally known as 'The Master' will indeed begin filming this year, June 13 specifically. Additionally, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Joaquin Phoenix are locked for the roles of The Master and Freddie Sutton. With just over a month until filming begins, expect lots of casting news to start trickling in. Reportedly Paul is interested in Amy Adams, Laura Dern, Lena Endre, and Madisen Beaty for (presumably) the roles of The Master's wife and daughter (previously rumored for the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Amanda Seyfried, Emma Stone and Deborah Ann Woll) though none are confirmed at this time.

Apparently Paul has greatly overhauled the script since last year when production was halted. The synopsis now reads "Hoffman stars as a man who returns after witnessing the horrors of WWII and tries to rediscover who he is in post-war America. He creates a belief system, something that catches on with other lost souls" So even those that read the early draft that circulated last year can expect more than a few surprises from the final version. Oh, and if that wasn't enough good news, (savior of film) Megan Ellison's Annapurna Pictures will finance the $35 million production with The Weinstein Co. handling the worldwide rights. We should find out in the next few weeks whether or not the film will indeed be shooting in 65mm or who might replace DP Robert Elswit should our tipster's report turn out to be accurate.

Check out the full article at Deadline and try to contain your excitement in the comments below.

More on this as it develops on our Twitter and Facebook.

Saturday, April 30, 2011

‘Hard Eight' Archives Completed



Over the next week, the entire Paul Thomas Anderson archives that have been collected over the last 12+ years will be uploading to our website. The first archive completed is Hard Eight, featuring endless information and multimedia including:

EXCLUSIVE HARD EIGHT ARCHIVES / Cigarettes & Red Vines  
DVD DETAILS
Domestic & Forgein Releases, Art and Technical Specifications

ARTWORK
Posters, print ads & forgein/format specific box art

PHOTO GALLERY
Photos from the premiere of the film & site-exclusive images from the official Rysher Entertainment press kit for Hard Eight

PRESS & RECOGNITION
Features Production Notes transcribed from the press kit, Awards & Nominations & Top Ten Critics Lists.

10 DELETED SCENES
Transcribed from the original draft of the Hard Eight Screenplay.
There is still a little more to be added to the HE archives, but the idea is to fill each section up with the most relevant/unique information for each film and flesh out the pages with the more wildly available information (cast & crew, imdb-esque things etc) after. Enjoy.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Flashback Friday: Ernie Anderson Vs The Copy



Today's Flashback Friday features an audio recording of Paul Thomas Anderson's father, Ernie Anderson cussing and flubbing through a radio advertisement recording and to describe it any further would cheapen it's brillance. Go go go.

Ernie Anderson_vs_The Copy by CJ Wallis

More Details On ‘The Master,' Plus 1 Page Of The Script

Thanks to an eagle eyed reader we have a little bit of late Friday news for you all. In the new issue of Life & Style magazine of all places, there's an article called "Tom & Scientology Under Fire Again" that suggests that (former Frank T.J. Mackey) Cruise might in some way be responsible for the delays on 'The Master' project. The magazine spoke with a "Hollywood insider" (emphasizing those air quotes) who said, "Producers have been trying to make the film for a while but the project hasn't gotten off the ground. Some have questioned whether Tom and the church have tried to squash it."

They also imply that Jeremy Renner has dropped out of the project because he's co-starring with Cruise in the new Mission: Impossible film (and not because he just signed onto about 4 other franchises). Funny that it hasn't had the same effect on Philip Seymour Hoffman who co-starred with Cruise in the last M:I film. Hmmm.

Despite these baseless, gossipy musings, the magazine does go on to give a few details about the script (which they claim they got as an exclusive peek) as well as publish an actual page. For those who don't want to be spoiled in the slightest, you might want to stop reading now but I'd say spoils are pretty light here.
The movie features a contentious leader who's a science fiction novelist (Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard had the same profession) and happens to be against traditional psychotherapy methods. So what's in the script that has the Church of Scientology quaking in it's boots? Drugging, secret missions, implants and claims of being able to cure leukemia in 36 hours are just a few taboo topics covered in the film. For now, the film is slated for a 2013 release.
Well, that's news to us. You can check out some more slight spoilers in the page of script below. (Thanks Bryan!)

As always, you can get the latest news on Cigarettes & Red Vines on Twitter and Facebook.