Leonardo DiCaprio Joins Heroic Ukraine Documentary ‘Checkpoint Zoo’ for Major Theatrical Release

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As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that Leonardo DiCaprio’s production house, Appian Way Productions, is joining forces for the North American theater release of Joshua Zeman’s gripping documentary, “Checkpoint Zoo.” This film recounts an extraordinary rescue mission spearheaded by a band of courageous zookeepers and volunteers. They bravely stepped up to save countless animals stranded in a zoo situated amid enemy lines during the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, putting their own lives on the line for these innocent creatures.

The Appian Way production unites with Noah Media Group and Ghost Robot. Abramorama acquires the rights for North American theatrical releases, while Osmosis Global handles global sales. This summer, the film’s North American theatrical debut will take place in New York City, where screenings led by the director and accompanied by special guests are scheduled.

As a movie creator, I seldom encounter tales that are so inspiring – so filled with optimism – that they make your eyes well up. It’s the magic of animal-themed narratives. Seeing these individuals bravely navigating danger to protect a lion, it revitalizes one’s belief in human kindness, Zeman expressed in his statement. I believe viewers are yearning for such stories at this moment – stories about real heroes who embody empathy, compassion, and selflessness.

Following the highly-anticipated premiere at the Tribeca Festival and a successful tour through various film festivals such as Tribeca, Mill Valley, Palm Springs, Sonoma, and Salem, I’m thrilled to share that “Checkpoint Zoo” has now garnered Jury awards at esteemed events like Miami, Annapolis, and Minneapolis St. Paul Film Festivals. Now, it’s time for the official release, a moment I’ve eagerly been waiting for!

Tuesday, May 6

‘The Virgin Suicides,’ ‘The Sugarland Express’ and ‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ Among Academy Museum’s Summer Line-Up

Among the films scheduled for this summer at the Academy Museum, you’ll find screenings of “The Virgin Suicides” directed by Sofia Coppola and starring Kirsten Dunst, as well as “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” in 35mm format. Additionally, “The Sugarland Express” featuring Goldie Hawn will be shown with the actress herself in attendance.

From June 1st to August 30th, the museum plans a seasonal celebration through two film series. The first, titled “Summer of Camp!”, showcases beloved cult classics such as “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery,” “White Chicks,” and “Reefer Madness.” The second series, named “Queer, Period: Desire Through the Ages,” will run from June 15th to 30th. This series features historical dramas and period pieces that subtly convey queer narratives.

Extra points of interest include:
1. The 4K restoration showcase of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” scheduled for June 13.
2. A Val Kilmer tribute with a 4K screening of “Tombstone” on June 28.
3. A screening of the Academy Award-nominated documentary “Crip Camp” set for July 19, followed by a discussion with directors Jim Lebrecht and Nicole Newnham.

Amy Homma, director and president of the Academy Museum, expressed this in a statement: ‘Our summer schedule embodies the ingenuity and teamwork that are at the heart of our museum. We’re merging filmmaker discussions and custom-selected movie series with interactive workshops for various age groups. By uniting different viewpoints, we aim to create a vibrant, inclusive environment. Programs such as our ‘Crip Camp’ dialogue and screening demonstrate how cinema can spark meaningful conversations, foster community, and drive change — an outcome only made possible through the contributions of artists and collaborators who contribute to these enriching experiences.’

A full list of screenings and events can be found here.

Monday, May 5

American Pavilion Unveils 2025 Cannes Emerging Filmmaker Showcase

This year’s line-up for the Emerging Filmmaker Showcase at Cannes, presented by the American Pavilion, highlights sixteen female directors. Notable figures such as Jason Reitman, known for “Saturday Night,” Rainn Wilson from “The Office,” Flora Jiwu Hwang of “Beef,” and Lisa Emery of “Ozark” are connected to select projects within this showcase.

Monika Skerbelis, the director of the Developing Cinema Exhibition, expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming event in a press release. She emphasized that this year’s showcase will feature a robust collection of films and filmmakers, all focusing on promoting diversity, fairness, and impartiality. Moreover, she is thrilled to be collaborating with Gold House for a second time, as they honor their Cultural Influence Award.

The up-and-coming filmmaker’s collection features titles such as “Agiter,” “Dear Landlord,” “Escape Route,” “Little Fluttering Flags,” “Miriam,” “Scruffy,” and “Sally, Gather the Potatoes.” Additionally, “She is Us: The Journey of Judge Songhai Armstead” is also included.

In the LGBTQ+ showcase, you’ll find titles like “Dancing in Tomorrowland,” “Handwoven,” “Happy New Year, Ms. Luna,” “Interference,” “Old Girl in a Tutu: Susan Rennie Challenges Art History,” “Pace,” and “Safety State” and “Saturday Ritual.” Meanwhile, the student filmmaker showcase features projects such as “Ada and the Doc,” “Before the Winter,” “Chase Jupiter,” “Christmas Every Day,” “The Hicks Happy Hour,” “Life and Spirit,” “Loving Day,” “Private i” and “When Big People Deceive.

Films will screen Tuesday, May 20 and Wednesday, May 21 at The American Pavilion.

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2025-05-07 04:01