Tag Archives: Joe Russo

Directors Joe and Anthony Russo talk ‘Arrested Development’ movie, tease new Will Arnett pilot

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The Brothers Russo should ring a little bell inside your head. They’ve been credited for directing the Arrested Development pilot and helming several episodes of that spectacular, short-lived series. Recently they helped kick-start Mitch Hurwitz’ other failed FOX program Running Wilde and today they are called upon to direct episodes for NBC’s Community. The talented duo sat down with Vulture to talk about their Community gig and that show’s upcoming epic finale. Towards the end of the conversation, though, Joe and Anthony Russo were asked about the highly anticipated and long-awaited Arrested Development movie. When asked why they were not chosen to direct the flick Joe responded, “We’re very close with Mitch. This is Mitch wanting to stretch a different muscle and get a more intimate approach to his own material. He understands the medium as well as any show-runner we’ve been around, so I believe it’s a natural progression for him.” He continued, “There’s always going to be some sort of collaboration, whether it’s completely on the periphery or more formally involved. Anything we can do to help him, we will do.” And if you have any doubt about the movie’s conceptual existence, please keep reading. When asked if he believes the movie will get made Joe said, “I think so. Mitch is very committed and very focused. I think the next six months of his life will be about that film. It’s a very complicated concept to encapsulate into two hours. There are so many stories you could tell from that [series]; it’s difficult to pull the thread through. But I think everything’s finally lining up.” Hooray!

In the same jam-packed interview, the Russo brothers let slip news about a potential new show for Arrested and Wilde‘s funny man Will Arnett. “We love Will,” said Anthony. “We’d do anything for him. We’re actually talking about doing another show with Will — something very edgy, something very different on cable. We’re talking about a very funny concept where there’s not a lot of limitations, where he can swear and do dangerous material. Hopefully HBO or Showtime, that’s what we’re talking about. Will’s just a funny motherfu–er.”

And there you have it; more proof that the Bluths are alive and kicking.

[Via Vulture]

‘Community’ is planning a “Modern Warfare” sequel, Lost’s Josh Holloway to cameo?

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Fans of Greendale Community College, listen here! TVLine has learned that NBC’s Community is planning a much-desired sequel to last year’s spectacular “Modern Warfare” paintball episode. According to the site the second inaugural paintball epic will be included in the show’s two-part season finale. But unlike last year’s action flick-esque episode, the game will not dominate the entire hour. An entirely new premise will take hold and “a bigger conspiracy” will reveal itself. It is noted that Alison Brie’s Annie will be central to the story, though the rest of the gang will play their part too. There’s a surprise twist that comes at the end of the finale that’s “just too, too good to spoil.”

In an interview with Vulture, Community directors Joe and Anthony Russo commented on what to expect from the upcoming ep (that has yet to be titled). “The question is, do we go right back at that and try do outdo the original? Or do we do something in the same voice as that, but something different?” asks Joe. “We’ve got a few cards hiding up our sleeves. I think there will be something as interesting and ambitious as “Modern Warfare” hitting the air soon.” Adds Anthony, “The one thing you know we won’t do is literally “Modern Warfare 2.” It will be that plus something else.” I guess the Russo brothers will replace Justin Lin (Fast & Furious) as directors of the MW followup.

Oh, and there’s this. According to EW, Lost‘s Josh Holloway (Sawyer) is interested in making a cameo in the finale. They say his “character will emerge as a mysterious figure who shows up on campus during another game of paintball.” Community‘s second season will surely end on a high note.

Community airs Thursdays at 8PM on NBC.

[Via TVLine; Vulture; EW]