Film News Today — August 2, 2026
‘Hacks’ Stars Hannah Einbinder and Paul W. Downs on the Legacy of ‘Hacks’ and Which Character Needs a Spinoff First and more — today's film signal.
The world of entertainment is abuzz with exciting updates from film and television. In the world of TV, stars from hit series are speaking out about their shows' legacies and potential futures. Hannah Einbinder and Paul W. Downs, stars of the HBO series 'Hacks', recently discussed the show's impact and which character might be due for a spinoff. Meanwhile, Juliette Lewis reflected on the finale of her show 'Cape Fear', highlighting nods to the 1991 film and the lasting impact of her character Crystal.
In the film world, big-name stars are generating buzz around upcoming projects. Vin Diesel recently praised the script for 'Fast Forever', saying it's the best he's read in decades. On the other hand, not all is smooth sailing for major Hollywood productions. The potential sequel to 'Barbie' has hit a roadblock, with reports that Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is hesitant to approve salary increases for stars Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie. Elsewhere, musicians are still paying homage to classic songs, with Phish recently performing XTC's 'Melt the Guns' for the first time in decades.
Today's signal:
• ‘Hacks’ Stars Hannah Einbinder and Paul W. Downs on the Legacy of ‘Hacks’ and Which Character Needs a Spinoff First (variety.com)
• Vin Diesel Says ‘Fast Forever’ Has the ‘Best Script I Have Read in Decades’: ‘I Am Still Crying’ (variety.com)
• See Phish Bust Out XTC’s ‘Melt the Guns’ for First Time Since 1987 (rollingstone.com)
• Juliette Lewis on Fiery ‘Cape Fear’ Finale, ‘Nostalgic’ Nods to 1991 Film and Why Crystal Will ‘Haunt’ Max Forever (variety.com)
• ‘Barbie’ Sequel Stalls as David Zaslav Won’t Approve Bigger Salaries for Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie (variety.com)