Film News Today — October 2, 2026

The world of film is abuzz with a mix of excitement and controversy. Ben Affleck's upcoming film 'Animals' has sparked interest not only for its cinematic value but also for a surprising suggestion from its cast - they want Affleck to run for office. Meanwhile, the Oscars continue to draw in entries from around the globe, with Pakistan selecting documentary 'Hanging by a Wire' for the International Feature race. Industry professionals are also making headlines, with Donna Langley revealing that a better film deal was the key to luring Taylor Sheridan away from Paramount.

From casting news to festival lineups, there's a lot to unpack. Chase Infiniti is set to star in Dylan Clark's 'Portrait of God' at Lionsgate, with Sam Raimi and Jordan Peele on board as producers. The Newport Beach Film Festival has announced that 'Behemoth!,' starring Pedro Pascal, will close the event. However, not everyone is happy with their recent experiences in the film industry. Chris Hansen, star of the HBO series 'Primetime,' has spoken out about the show's tragic ending and his love life being portrayed onscreen, even considering taking legal action against A24 for exploitation.

Today's signal:
• Ben Affleck’s ‘Animals’ Cast Wants Him to Run for Office: ‘Maybe They Hate Me’ (variety.com)
• Oscars: Pakistan Selects Documentary ‘Hanging by a Wire’ for International Feature Race (EXCLUSIVE) (variety.com)
• Donna Langley Says the Key to Stealing Taylor Sheridan Away From Paramount Was a Better Film Deal: ‘I Saw an Opportunity’ (variety.com)
• Chris Hansen Confronts ‘Primetime’: The Tragic Ending, Seeing His Love Life Onscreen and Considering Legal Action Against A24 Because ‘They Exploited Me’ (variety.com)
• Chase Infiniti to Star in Dylan Clark’s ‘Portrait of God’ at Lionsgate With Sam Raimi and Jordan Peele Producing (variety.com)
• ‘Behemoth!,’ Starring Pedro Pascal, to Close Newport Beach Film Festival (variety.com)