Archives: What’s Happening in HTG Town

Ship of Fooles Studio has always been alerted to profitable film ventures. Now, thanks to an award allowing for the re-release of a previous virtual non-HTG film, SoF head Lucian Carter is looking to exhibit Secret Insurance Agent Man one more time. The comedy will be under the direction of Raja Gosnell, who, despite bringing non-HTG films to the world such as the Scooby Doo movies, Big Momma’s House and Never Been Kissed, has not worked in HTG Hollywood. Will Ferrell is set to return as the titular insurance agent who anxiously investigates clients who he suspects are cheating on their claims.

The question for Lucian at this time is: Who will take the second SIAM lead? He has it narrowed down to two choices: Drew Barrymore (TS 6.845), who appeared in one version of the film. Her only HTG credit to date is 2006’s Blinded by an Apple. Also possible is Reese Witherspoon (TS 7.000), who has no past association with the movie and amazingly no HTG credits to her name. However, Lucian does have a talent voucher for her that would save him $6.845 million.

Posting a poll on the HTG message board for these choices, Barrymore is narrowly leading. Lucian has stated that the poll is not binding, but the desire of the HTG citizenry is a powerful motivator for casting.

Who will Lucian chose? Will our insurance agent hero get his man?

Secret Insurance Agent Man, produced and distributed by Ship of Fooles, is set for a March 6 release.

Late 1/10/09 update: Word has come from Ship of Fooles that Drew Barrymore has gained the SIAM job. Congratulations to her. Rumor has reached the Happ office that Miss Barrymore is throwing a celebration party somewhere in in the city. If and when that party is located, expect a report here.

Actor Jake Gyllenhaal prepares for role as FBI Agent who enjoys Guitar Hero.

He has ten HTG film credits to his name. His Talent Score is a respectable 7.173. Yet, for some reason, actor Jake Gyllenhaal did not have a single HTG hiring in 2008. Is the 28-year-old Inherit the Wind player yesterday’s news?

“Poor Jake had the rep of being the troubled teen” stated a friend of the actor. “He’s had some respectable roles, but he went dry last year. He’s wanting to change that.”

And how is Gyllenhaal attempting to make 2009 a better year?

“He’s been working out like crazy” continued the friend. “He’s really wanting to take on a beefy action role. He played Green Lantern a couple years ago, but since then he feels that he has been forgotten. By getting into top shape and gaining that super healthy look, Jake feels that casting crews will be knocking on his door.”

What if he doesn’t get that big starring role?

“I’m sure something will come his way soon. He doesn’t have to be the number one star of the film. I’m sure HTG Hollywood is aware of his skill as a performer and will get him a top four spot any time now.”

Preparations are being made for the next HTG Awards, to be hosted by The Soup’s Joel McHale. Celebrating HTG movies, creative, critique and journalism, awards ceremonies are some of the most anticipated events during the year.

“We should have everything set up for nominations soon” remarked an awards staffer. “We had quite a few eligible films this last half year. It’s going to be tough figuring out which deserve to rise to the top, but that’s part of the excitement.”

More on the awards nominations when the information is available.