rich online slots game
Published 21:53 IST, November 24th 2024 The 'Chill Guy' meme, a laid-back dog, sparks copyright drama as creator Philip Banks rejects its Rs 3,361 crore crypto association. The 'Chill Guy' meme, featuring an anamorphic brown dog in a grey sweater, rolled-up blue jeans, and red sneakers, has taken the internet by storm. The character, with a laid-back attitude and subtle smirk, has become a symbol of calm and composure, captivating social media users worldwide. Its popularity has even spilled over into the cryptocurrency market, with a token named CHILLGUY reaching a market cap of over $405 million. However, the meme’s rise to fame is now facing a legal challenge as its creator, Philip Banks, seeks to enforce copyright protection. "I will never give permission to use my art for anything crypto-related," said Banks, who first posted the illustration on October 4, 2023. The artist, appearing to be the force behind the viral 'Chill Guy,' emphasised that he does not want his work associated with cryptocurrency projects. "Just putting it out there, the chill guy has been copyrighted. like, legally. i'll be issuing takedowns on for-profit related things over the next few days," he posted on X. The meme, known for its portrayal of the cool and carefree dog character, has become a viral sensation. It has been widely shared on social media platforms, often paired with humorous captions reflecting a relaxed, unbothered attitude. For instance, one TikTok video paired the character with the text, "When she thinks (you're) nonchalant and don't care (about) her, but in reality (you're) just a chill guy that likes being quiet sometimes." The 'Chill Guy' meme’s influence goes beyond social media, with brands like Sprite Europe and the NFL using the image in marketing campaigns. The meme’s association with cryptocurrency, however, has raised concerns for Banks, who has made it clear he is not interested in any crypto-related projects. “I do not, and will never, endorse or condone any crypto-related projects involving my work,” Banks added in a video caption. The widespread use of the meme, including its appearance in various ads and even as a crypto token, has triggered the artist to take legal action to protect his intellectual property. The 'Chill Guy' meme is more than just a funny image; it represents a certain attitude toward life. The dog’s easygoing demeanour has led many to relate to the character, seeing it as a reflection of themselves. "Every laid-back, easygoing man on this planet can see himself in this meme," wrote Barstool Sports in a blog post. The 'Chill Guy' has resonated with audiences because it embodies the calm and composed approach to life's challenges. The character’s vibe is one of positivity, humor, and balance, offering a healthy work-life outlook. With his low stress levels and supportive attitude, the 'Chill Guy' provides a sense of calm to everyone around him, making him the perfect symbol for the modern-day zen attitude. As Banks moves forward with his legal efforts to secure copyright for the meme, it is clear that the 'Chill Guy' will continue to have a lasting impact on both internet culture and beyond. However, the future of the meme’s association with the cryptocurrency world remains uncertain, as Banks takes steps to protect his creation. 21:53 IST, November 24th 2024JOHN DURAN has seen his three-match BAN confirmed after the FA rejected an appeal. The Aston Villa ace was sent off for an alleged stamp on Newcastle's Fabian Schar. Duran, 21, lost his balance while running behind the Toon defender before appearing to direct his right boot down onto Schar's back in frustration. Referee Anthony Taylor then gave Duran his marching orders after just half an hour before VAR confirmed the call. The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on social media: "The referee issued a red card to Durán for violent conduct. The VAR checked and confirmed the referee’s call." The feisty match at St James' Park ended in a 3-0 win for the home side, though with Duran - who had been on fire ahead of the clash - that score may have been different, as Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall was also sent off at half-time. Feeling he had been wrongfully punished, Villa sent an appeal to the FA to get the ban overturned. However, an announcement from the club on Friday evening revealed the star would NOT have the ban rescinded. A statement said: "Aston Villa can confirm that our decision to appeal Jhon Durán’s red card in our match with Newcastle United has been rejected. "The player will now miss our next three matches." BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER S The Colombian risked further punishment as he was seen kicking a water bottle in anger before going down the tunnel. Duran has scored 12 goals in 26 games for Unai Emery's side, with many of these coming off the bench. He had scored in each of his last three games before the Newcastle defeat. PGMOL considerations for violent conduct: A player who is not challenging for the ball will be sent off if they: -use or attempt to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent, teammate, team official, match official, spectator or any other person, regardless of whether contact is made -deliberately strike an opponent or any other person on the head or face with their hand or arm, unless the force used was negligible -make a clear forward movement with their head resulting in contact with the head or face of an opponent or any other person, unless the force used was negligible -clearly make forceful contact by holding or grabbing the throat/neck area, or gouges the eye of an opponent or any other person -make a clear action to pull the hair of an opponent or any other person with force More to follow. THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY.. The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video . Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball .
Daily Post Nigeria Belgium: Arokodare delighted to score for Genk on birthday Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Sport Belgium: Arokodare delighted to score for Genk on birthday Published on November 24, 2024 By Mike Oyebola Nigeria forward, Tolu Arokodare is delighted to score on his birthday for KRC Genk, DAILY POST reports. Arokodare opened scoring for the Smurfs 13 minutes from time. It was the forward’s ninth goal of the season. The forward expressed his delight on the outcome of the game. “This victory feels good, but it was not an easy match. Especially in the first half, we had a hard time,” he said after the game. “The dance during the celebration is one from the old box. “Especially on my birthday, it tastes extra sweet to score and also help the team.” Related Topics: Arokodare Belgium Genk Up Next NPFL: Niger Tornadoes coach reflects on draw against Ikorodu City Don't Miss EPL: Amorim includes 16-year-old defender in Man Utd squad to face Ipswich You may like Transfer: Arokodare reveals why he rejected Trabzonspor move Eguavoen jets out to Belgium for medical checkup Belgium: Genk want to win league title — Arokodare Arokodare not willing to give up on Super Eagles chance Arokodare ready to wait for Super Eagles chance Belgium: Onyedika scoops Club Brugge’s Player of the Month Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media LtdKobe Sanders tied a season high with 27 points as Nevada claimed fifth place in the Charleston Classic with a 90-78 victory over Oklahoma State Sunday afternoon in South Carolina. Sanders helped the Wolfpack (6-1) earn a second win following one-possession games against Vanderbilt and VCU. After hitting the decisive 3-pointer with five seconds left in Friday's 64-61 win over VCU, Sanders made 7 of 10 shots, hit three 3s and sank 10 of 13 free throws Sunday. Nick Davidson added 223 points as Nevada led by as many as 19 and shot 58.9 percent. Brandon Love contributed 11 on 5-of-5 shooting as the Wolfpack scored 46 points in the paint and scored at least 85 for the fourth time this season. Marchelus Avery led the Cowboys (4-2) with 15 points and Arturo Dean added 13. Robert Jennings and Abou Ousmane added 11 apiece but leading scorer Bryce Thompson was held to seven points on 1-of-9 shooting as Oklahoma State shot 42 percent and 73.2 percent (30-of-41) at the line. After Avery's 3 forged a 12-12 tie with 13:41 remaining, Nevada gradually gained separation. The Wolfpack took a 24-15 lead on Chuck Bailey's jumper in the paint with 8:28 left but the Cowboys inched back, getting within 33-31 on a dunk by Avery with 4:11 left. Another Bailey jumper staked Nevada to a 40-33 lead by halftime. Nevada began pulling away early in the second half as it scored eight in a row for a 52-40 lead on a basket by Love with 16:44 left. A 3 by Sanders opened a 62-43 lead with 14:06 remaining before Oklahoma State charged back. After Nevada made eight straight shots, the Cowboys countered with 11 straight points and trailed 62-54 with 11:19 left on a 3-pointer by Avery. Thompson made his first basket by sinking a jumper with 10:37 left to get Oklahoma State within 64-56 left, and Keller's triple cut the margin to 70-64 nearly three minutes later. The Cowboys were within 78-72 on a basket by Avery with 3:56 remaining, but he fouled out about a minute later and the Wolfpack outscored Oklahoma State 12-6 the rest of the way as Sanders sank five free throws. --Field Level MediaLetters for Dec. 11: US economy may be thriving, but it didn’t resonate with voters
Major League Baseball , the players' association and the Braves paid tribute to Carty on social media on Sunday. No further details on Carty's death were provided. “Carty was one of the first groundbreaking Latino stars in the major leagues, and he established himself as a hero to millions in his native Dominican Republic, his hometown of San Pedro de Macoris, and the city of Atlanta, where he was a beloved fan favorite,” the players' association said in its statement . The Braves said Carty left an indelible mark on the organization. “While his on-field accomplishments will never be forgotten, his unforgettable smile and generous nature will be sorely missed,” the team said in its statement. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise's first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Carty had his best year in 1970, batting .366 with 25 homers and a career-best 101 RBIs. He started the All-Star Game after he was elected as a write-in candidate, joining Willie Mays and Hank Aaron in the NL outfield. Carty batted .299 with 204 homers and 890 RBIs over 15 years in the majors, also playing for Cleveland, Toronto, Oakland, Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He retired after the 1979 season. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLBThe hardest movie ticket to get this weekend was for a film audiences have been able to watch at home for years: Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.” The science fiction epic starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway earned $4.5 million from only 166 screens in the U.S. and Canada. Its 70mm IMAX film presentations sold out in minutes, leaving theaters scrambling to add more and people paying up to $300 on the re-sale market. Those 10 film screens alone had a staggering $70,000 per theater average, one of the highest of the year and usually the bragging rights of acclaimed arthouse movies playing on only four screens. Ten years after “Interstellar” was given a film release as a special exception at time when its studio, Paramount, was committing to a digital future, film is not only back but driving audiences to theaters. “I was just so gratified by the response,” Nolan said in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press. “It’s really thrilling when people respond to your work at any point. But 10 years later, to have new audiences coming and experiencing it in the way that we’d originally intended it on the big IMAX screens and in particular on those IMAX film prints? It’s really rewarding to see that it continues to have a life.” “Interstellar” had been a labor of love, with Nolan fighting against the tides of a changing industry to use film, certain of its value. Like McConaughey’s Cooper, an astronaut clinging to skills that were all but obsolete in his dust bowl reality, “Interstellar” was made by a celluloid-loving filmmaker when the format was least valued. “Celluloid film was very threatened. Digital was taking over everything,” Nolan said. “We put an enormous amount of work and effort into the IMAX 70mm film format release at the time feeling like we didn’t know how much longer we’d be able to do that.” During its time, “Interstellar” was received warmly and an unambiguous success, but it also had its detractors. Its five Oscar nominations and win were all for crafts. And yet in the decade since, “Interstellar” has become beloved, a true classic. Nolan observed that it was the film that people kept wanting to talk about, telling him what it meant to them and asking if it was ever going to be re-released. Those grand emotions and sentimental themes of love, family and exploration that were a liability with some are now its most cherished qualities. “A lot of these people were younger people who, it was clear to me, had seen the film in the home and hadn’t had the chance to see it on the big screen,” Nolan said. While there have been “Interstellar” rereleases internationally, in China and at the Science Museum in London, Nolan saw an opportunity and spoke to IMAX and Paramount, now under a new regime, about a proper North American re-release for its 10th anniversary. The prints, Nolan said, hadn't aged a day. IMAX hardly needed convincing: They’ve had the anniversary date circled on the calendar. For years, “Interstellar” was by far the biggest request on their social channels. “We saw this coming from the beginning,” IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said. “It reminded us in a small way of the frenzy around ‘Oppenheimer.’ But the result is far beyond our expectations." “Interstellar” is now the ninth highest-grossing IMAX release of all time and is closing in on eight (currently occupied by “The Last Jedi.”) The company is currently exploring options for re-releases in different territories. The “Oppenheimer" effect was real in redeeming film's value for the business. IMAX screens accounted for some 20% of the nearly $1 billion this year's Oscar best picture winner made globally (it ranks at No. 5 for IMAX). While filmmakers have long cherished film stock, “Oppenheimer” had studios, distributors and theaters taking note of the demand. Earlier this year the film showings of “Dune: Part Two” were sold out for four weeks. And there's more to come: Ryan Coogler's new film “Sinners," opening in March 2025, was shot with IMAX cameras. The “Interstellar” release was fairly “low key" when it came to promotion, but it also didn’t need much — fans made sure of that. Before IMAX had even announced that tickets were on sale, some noticed that AMC had made them available. News spread on socials and overnight every 70mm IMAX showing at the Lincoln Square location in New York had sold out. It wasn’t just the “primetime” slots either: The 1 AM showtimes were at capacity too. After the weekend's turnout surpassed expectations, they added more 70mm IMAX screenings through the week which also filled up quickly. While Nolan is in some ways an anomaly, as the rare filmmaker whose name alone can draw crowds for original fare, there are lessons to be learned from the weekend. “It just shows our industry once again that audiences truly understand the difference between a communal, big screen theatrical experience that they crave even on films that they’ve had the opportunities to see in the home,” Nolan said. “That theatrical experience that we all know and love is so powerful and so exciting. It’s a very clear demonstration of it, especially coming amidst all the great successes right now, “Wicked,” “Gladiator II,” “Moana 2.” "Audiences are coming out in droves for that experience that we all love so much.” Before the weekend, Nolan was able to see the film again on the big screen for the first time since the original release, accompanied by his Oscar-winning “Oppenheimer” cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema . “Interstellar” was their first collaboration and Hoytema’s introduction to IMAX cameras (where he proved that they could be handheld if you tried hard enough). “It was really, really fun," Nolan said. He also approved the new 4K UHD “Interstellar" set that's now available. Since “Oppenheimer's" big night at the Oscars and Nolan's best director win , there's been much speculation about his next film with near daily rumors circulating about casting and genre, none of which have been officially confirmed. It's not something he's speaking publicly about yet. One thing he will say, however, is that he’s in the throes of intensive testing for a new film technology with IMAX to use in the next production. “They have an incredible engineering staff, really brilliant minds doing extraordinary work,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see innovation in the celluloid film arena still happening and happening at the highest level possible.” And he’s still making time to go to the movies. Over the weekend, Nolan went to see “Wicked” at a theater in Burbank where he also peeked into one of the IMAX presentations of his film. “It was pretty magical to see a full house on that film,” he said. “It was a very special thing to see, 10 years later.” Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) Rating Increased to Buy at StockNews.com
Published 21:53 IST, November 24th 2024 The 'Chill Guy' meme, a laid-back dog, sparks copyright drama as creator Philip Banks rejects its Rs 3,361 crore crypto association. The 'Chill Guy' meme, featuring an anamorphic brown dog in a grey sweater, rolled-up blue jeans, and red sneakers, has taken the internet by storm. The character, with a laid-back attitude and subtle smirk, has become a symbol of calm and composure, captivating social media users worldwide. Its popularity has even spilled over into the cryptocurrency market, with a token named CHILLGUY reaching a market cap of over $405 million. However, the meme’s rise to fame is now facing a legal challenge as its creator, Philip Banks, seeks to enforce copyright protection. "I will never give permission to use my art for anything crypto-related," said Banks, who first posted the illustration on October 4, 2023. The artist, appearing to be the force behind the viral 'Chill Guy,' emphasised that he does not want his work associated with cryptocurrency projects. "Just putting it out there, the chill guy has been copyrighted. like, legally. i'll be issuing takedowns on for-profit related things over the next few days," he posted on X. The meme, known for its portrayal of the cool and carefree dog character, has become a viral sensation. It has been widely shared on social media platforms, often paired with humorous captions reflecting a relaxed, unbothered attitude. For instance, one TikTok video paired the character with the text, "When she thinks (you're) nonchalant and don't care (about) her, but in reality (you're) just a chill guy that likes being quiet sometimes." The 'Chill Guy' meme’s influence goes beyond social media, with brands like Sprite Europe and the NFL using the image in marketing campaigns. The meme’s association with cryptocurrency, however, has raised concerns for Banks, who has made it clear he is not interested in any crypto-related projects. “I do not, and will never, endorse or condone any crypto-related projects involving my work,” Banks added in a video caption. The widespread use of the meme, including its appearance in various ads and even as a crypto token, has triggered the artist to take legal action to protect his intellectual property. The 'Chill Guy' meme is more than just a funny image; it represents a certain attitude toward life. The dog’s easygoing demeanour has led many to relate to the character, seeing it as a reflection of themselves. "Every laid-back, easygoing man on this planet can see himself in this meme," wrote Barstool Sports in a blog post. The 'Chill Guy' has resonated with audiences because it embodies the calm and composed approach to life's challenges. The character’s vibe is one of positivity, humor, and balance, offering a healthy work-life outlook. With his low stress levels and supportive attitude, the 'Chill Guy' provides a sense of calm to everyone around him, making him the perfect symbol for the modern-day zen attitude. As Banks moves forward with his legal efforts to secure copyright for the meme, it is clear that the 'Chill Guy' will continue to have a lasting impact on both internet culture and beyond. However, the future of the meme’s association with the cryptocurrency world remains uncertain, as Banks takes steps to protect his creation. 21:53 IST, November 24th 2024JOHN DURAN has seen his three-match BAN confirmed after the FA rejected an appeal. The Aston Villa ace was sent off for an alleged stamp on Newcastle's Fabian Schar. Duran, 21, lost his balance while running behind the Toon defender before appearing to direct his right boot down onto Schar's back in frustration. Referee Anthony Taylor then gave Duran his marching orders after just half an hour before VAR confirmed the call. The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on social media: "The referee issued a red card to Durán for violent conduct. The VAR checked and confirmed the referee’s call." The feisty match at St James' Park ended in a 3-0 win for the home side, though with Duran - who had been on fire ahead of the clash - that score may have been different, as Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall was also sent off at half-time. Feeling he had been wrongfully punished, Villa sent an appeal to the FA to get the ban overturned. However, an announcement from the club on Friday evening revealed the star would NOT have the ban rescinded. A statement said: "Aston Villa can confirm that our decision to appeal Jhon Durán’s red card in our match with Newcastle United has been rejected. "The player will now miss our next three matches." BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER S The Colombian risked further punishment as he was seen kicking a water bottle in anger before going down the tunnel. Duran has scored 12 goals in 26 games for Unai Emery's side, with many of these coming off the bench. He had scored in each of his last three games before the Newcastle defeat. PGMOL considerations for violent conduct: A player who is not challenging for the ball will be sent off if they: -use or attempt to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent, teammate, team official, match official, spectator or any other person, regardless of whether contact is made -deliberately strike an opponent or any other person on the head or face with their hand or arm, unless the force used was negligible -make a clear forward movement with their head resulting in contact with the head or face of an opponent or any other person, unless the force used was negligible -clearly make forceful contact by holding or grabbing the throat/neck area, or gouges the eye of an opponent or any other person -make a clear action to pull the hair of an opponent or any other person with force More to follow. THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY.. The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video . Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball .
Daily Post Nigeria Belgium: Arokodare delighted to score for Genk on birthday Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Sport Belgium: Arokodare delighted to score for Genk on birthday Published on November 24, 2024 By Mike Oyebola Nigeria forward, Tolu Arokodare is delighted to score on his birthday for KRC Genk, DAILY POST reports. Arokodare opened scoring for the Smurfs 13 minutes from time. It was the forward’s ninth goal of the season. The forward expressed his delight on the outcome of the game. “This victory feels good, but it was not an easy match. Especially in the first half, we had a hard time,” he said after the game. “The dance during the celebration is one from the old box. “Especially on my birthday, it tastes extra sweet to score and also help the team.” Related Topics: Arokodare Belgium Genk Up Next NPFL: Niger Tornadoes coach reflects on draw against Ikorodu City Don't Miss EPL: Amorim includes 16-year-old defender in Man Utd squad to face Ipswich You may like Transfer: Arokodare reveals why he rejected Trabzonspor move Eguavoen jets out to Belgium for medical checkup Belgium: Genk want to win league title — Arokodare Arokodare not willing to give up on Super Eagles chance Arokodare ready to wait for Super Eagles chance Belgium: Onyedika scoops Club Brugge’s Player of the Month Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media LtdKobe Sanders tied a season high with 27 points as Nevada claimed fifth place in the Charleston Classic with a 90-78 victory over Oklahoma State Sunday afternoon in South Carolina. Sanders helped the Wolfpack (6-1) earn a second win following one-possession games against Vanderbilt and VCU. After hitting the decisive 3-pointer with five seconds left in Friday's 64-61 win over VCU, Sanders made 7 of 10 shots, hit three 3s and sank 10 of 13 free throws Sunday. Nick Davidson added 223 points as Nevada led by as many as 19 and shot 58.9 percent. Brandon Love contributed 11 on 5-of-5 shooting as the Wolfpack scored 46 points in the paint and scored at least 85 for the fourth time this season. Marchelus Avery led the Cowboys (4-2) with 15 points and Arturo Dean added 13. Robert Jennings and Abou Ousmane added 11 apiece but leading scorer Bryce Thompson was held to seven points on 1-of-9 shooting as Oklahoma State shot 42 percent and 73.2 percent (30-of-41) at the line. After Avery's 3 forged a 12-12 tie with 13:41 remaining, Nevada gradually gained separation. The Wolfpack took a 24-15 lead on Chuck Bailey's jumper in the paint with 8:28 left but the Cowboys inched back, getting within 33-31 on a dunk by Avery with 4:11 left. Another Bailey jumper staked Nevada to a 40-33 lead by halftime. Nevada began pulling away early in the second half as it scored eight in a row for a 52-40 lead on a basket by Love with 16:44 left. A 3 by Sanders opened a 62-43 lead with 14:06 remaining before Oklahoma State charged back. After Nevada made eight straight shots, the Cowboys countered with 11 straight points and trailed 62-54 with 11:19 left on a 3-pointer by Avery. Thompson made his first basket by sinking a jumper with 10:37 left to get Oklahoma State within 64-56 left, and Keller's triple cut the margin to 70-64 nearly three minutes later. The Cowboys were within 78-72 on a basket by Avery with 3:56 remaining, but he fouled out about a minute later and the Wolfpack outscored Oklahoma State 12-6 the rest of the way as Sanders sank five free throws. --Field Level MediaLetters for Dec. 11: US economy may be thriving, but it didn’t resonate with voters
Major League Baseball , the players' association and the Braves paid tribute to Carty on social media on Sunday. No further details on Carty's death were provided. “Carty was one of the first groundbreaking Latino stars in the major leagues, and he established himself as a hero to millions in his native Dominican Republic, his hometown of San Pedro de Macoris, and the city of Atlanta, where he was a beloved fan favorite,” the players' association said in its statement . The Braves said Carty left an indelible mark on the organization. “While his on-field accomplishments will never be forgotten, his unforgettable smile and generous nature will be sorely missed,” the team said in its statement. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise's first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Carty had his best year in 1970, batting .366 with 25 homers and a career-best 101 RBIs. He started the All-Star Game after he was elected as a write-in candidate, joining Willie Mays and Hank Aaron in the NL outfield. Carty batted .299 with 204 homers and 890 RBIs over 15 years in the majors, also playing for Cleveland, Toronto, Oakland, Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He retired after the 1979 season. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLBThe hardest movie ticket to get this weekend was for a film audiences have been able to watch at home for years: Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.” The science fiction epic starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway earned $4.5 million from only 166 screens in the U.S. and Canada. Its 70mm IMAX film presentations sold out in minutes, leaving theaters scrambling to add more and people paying up to $300 on the re-sale market. Those 10 film screens alone had a staggering $70,000 per theater average, one of the highest of the year and usually the bragging rights of acclaimed arthouse movies playing on only four screens. Ten years after “Interstellar” was given a film release as a special exception at time when its studio, Paramount, was committing to a digital future, film is not only back but driving audiences to theaters. “I was just so gratified by the response,” Nolan said in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press. “It’s really thrilling when people respond to your work at any point. But 10 years later, to have new audiences coming and experiencing it in the way that we’d originally intended it on the big IMAX screens and in particular on those IMAX film prints? It’s really rewarding to see that it continues to have a life.” “Interstellar” had been a labor of love, with Nolan fighting against the tides of a changing industry to use film, certain of its value. Like McConaughey’s Cooper, an astronaut clinging to skills that were all but obsolete in his dust bowl reality, “Interstellar” was made by a celluloid-loving filmmaker when the format was least valued. “Celluloid film was very threatened. Digital was taking over everything,” Nolan said. “We put an enormous amount of work and effort into the IMAX 70mm film format release at the time feeling like we didn’t know how much longer we’d be able to do that.” During its time, “Interstellar” was received warmly and an unambiguous success, but it also had its detractors. Its five Oscar nominations and win were all for crafts. And yet in the decade since, “Interstellar” has become beloved, a true classic. Nolan observed that it was the film that people kept wanting to talk about, telling him what it meant to them and asking if it was ever going to be re-released. Those grand emotions and sentimental themes of love, family and exploration that were a liability with some are now its most cherished qualities. “A lot of these people were younger people who, it was clear to me, had seen the film in the home and hadn’t had the chance to see it on the big screen,” Nolan said. While there have been “Interstellar” rereleases internationally, in China and at the Science Museum in London, Nolan saw an opportunity and spoke to IMAX and Paramount, now under a new regime, about a proper North American re-release for its 10th anniversary. The prints, Nolan said, hadn't aged a day. IMAX hardly needed convincing: They’ve had the anniversary date circled on the calendar. For years, “Interstellar” was by far the biggest request on their social channels. “We saw this coming from the beginning,” IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said. “It reminded us in a small way of the frenzy around ‘Oppenheimer.’ But the result is far beyond our expectations." “Interstellar” is now the ninth highest-grossing IMAX release of all time and is closing in on eight (currently occupied by “The Last Jedi.”) The company is currently exploring options for re-releases in different territories. The “Oppenheimer" effect was real in redeeming film's value for the business. IMAX screens accounted for some 20% of the nearly $1 billion this year's Oscar best picture winner made globally (it ranks at No. 5 for IMAX). While filmmakers have long cherished film stock, “Oppenheimer” had studios, distributors and theaters taking note of the demand. Earlier this year the film showings of “Dune: Part Two” were sold out for four weeks. And there's more to come: Ryan Coogler's new film “Sinners," opening in March 2025, was shot with IMAX cameras. The “Interstellar” release was fairly “low key" when it came to promotion, but it also didn’t need much — fans made sure of that. Before IMAX had even announced that tickets were on sale, some noticed that AMC had made them available. News spread on socials and overnight every 70mm IMAX showing at the Lincoln Square location in New York had sold out. It wasn’t just the “primetime” slots either: The 1 AM showtimes were at capacity too. After the weekend's turnout surpassed expectations, they added more 70mm IMAX screenings through the week which also filled up quickly. While Nolan is in some ways an anomaly, as the rare filmmaker whose name alone can draw crowds for original fare, there are lessons to be learned from the weekend. “It just shows our industry once again that audiences truly understand the difference between a communal, big screen theatrical experience that they crave even on films that they’ve had the opportunities to see in the home,” Nolan said. “That theatrical experience that we all know and love is so powerful and so exciting. It’s a very clear demonstration of it, especially coming amidst all the great successes right now, “Wicked,” “Gladiator II,” “Moana 2.” "Audiences are coming out in droves for that experience that we all love so much.” Before the weekend, Nolan was able to see the film again on the big screen for the first time since the original release, accompanied by his Oscar-winning “Oppenheimer” cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema . “Interstellar” was their first collaboration and Hoytema’s introduction to IMAX cameras (where he proved that they could be handheld if you tried hard enough). “It was really, really fun," Nolan said. He also approved the new 4K UHD “Interstellar" set that's now available. Since “Oppenheimer's" big night at the Oscars and Nolan's best director win , there's been much speculation about his next film with near daily rumors circulating about casting and genre, none of which have been officially confirmed. It's not something he's speaking publicly about yet. One thing he will say, however, is that he’s in the throes of intensive testing for a new film technology with IMAX to use in the next production. “They have an incredible engineering staff, really brilliant minds doing extraordinary work,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see innovation in the celluloid film arena still happening and happening at the highest level possible.” And he’s still making time to go to the movies. Over the weekend, Nolan went to see “Wicked” at a theater in Burbank where he also peeked into one of the IMAX presentations of his film. “It was pretty magical to see a full house on that film,” he said. “It was a very special thing to see, 10 years later.” Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) Rating Increased to Buy at StockNews.com