Film News Today — August 12, 2026
‘In Flames’ Director Zarrar Kahn Returns to Toronto With Gym-Incel Rom-Com ‘The Lion Does Not Concern Himself,’ Trailer Unveiled (EXCLUSIVE) and more — today's film signal.
The world of film is abuzz with exciting new developments and thought-provoking conversations. Today, we're shining a spotlight on emerging talent and innovative storytelling. Zarrar Kahn, the director of 'In Flames', is back in Toronto with his latest project, 'The Lion Does Not Concern Himself', a romantic comedy that tackles unique themes. Meanwhile, Caleb Landry Jones opens up about the five-year journey to bring 'Down the Arm of God' to life, a film that confronts prejudices against homelessness and features a notable contribution from Luc Besson.
The industry is also witnessing a shift towards greater inclusivity and representation, with trans and nonbinary filmmakers like Vera Drew and Louise Weard taking control of their stories outside of the traditional studio system. This movement towards self-sufficiency and creative freedom is echoed in Zoe Saldaña's comments on the limitations of being asked solely about politics as an actor of color and woman. Elsewhere, 'The Last House' makes a striking debut with 27.5 million views in just three days, while fans of 'The Odyssey' can get an exclusive glimpse into the making of the epic film through stunning photo books. These stories and more are helping to shape the future of film and redefine the boundaries of storytelling.
Today's signal:
• ‘In Flames’ Director Zarrar Kahn Returns to Toronto With Gym-Incel Rom-Com ‘The Lion Does Not Concern Himself,’ Trailer Unveiled (EXCLUSIVE) (variety.com)
• Caleb Landry Jones on the Five-Year Battle to Make ‘Down the Arm of God,’ Confronting Prejudices Against Homelessness and How Luc Besson Saved the Film (variety.com)
• Zoe Saldaña Says It’s ‘Frustrating’ When Political Questions Only Get Asked to Actors of Color and Women: ‘That’s Incredibly Limiting’ (variety.com)
• How Vera Drew, Louise Weard and More Trans and Nonbinary Filmmakers Are Taking Control of Their Stories Outside the Studio System: ‘We’re Creating a New Industry’ (variety.com)
• ‘The Last House’ Debuts With 27.5 Million Views in Three Days (variety.com)
• ‘The Odyssey’ Photo Books Reveal Behind-the-Scenes Secrets of Filming the Trojan Horse, Battles and More (variety.com)