Gayety

Tag: Connie Britton

  • Benny Drama’s ‘Overcompensating’ Teaser Reveals a Closeted Frat Jock with a Surprise Charli XCX Cameo

    Benny Drama’s ‘Overcompensating’ Teaser Reveals a Closeted Frat Jock with a Surprise Charli XCX Cameo

    Internet sensation Benito Skinner, also known as Benny Drama, is stepping into the spotlight with his highly anticipated TV debut in the semi-autobiographical comedy series Overcompensating on Prime Video. Skinner not only stars in the show but also writes and executive produces it. The series follows a college-set narrative with an ensemble cast that includes notable names like Connie Britton, Kyle MacLachlan, and Charli XCX, who serves as both executive music producer and guest star.

    A Comedy About Self-Discovery

    Overcompensating centers on Benny (Skinner), a closeted former football player and Idaho homecoming king, navigating his complicated journey to self-discovery. Alongside Carmen, a high school outsider desperate to fit in, Benny dives headfirst into the chaotic world of college life. With guidance from his older sister and her campus-legend boyfriend, Benny and Carmen struggle through disastrous hookups, flavored vodka, and fake IDs. The show explores the pressures of overcompensating while grappling with identity, masculinity, and the quest for acceptance. The official synopsis describes the series as a deeply personal and humor-filled exploration of how we all struggle to figure out who we truly are.

    Skinner’s Vision for the Show and Queer Representation

    Skinner, known for his viral comedy skits and larger-than-life internet presence, brings his unique blend of humor and authenticity to the project. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Skinner shared that Overcompensating reflects the modern complexities of coming out, highlighting the internal battles queer people face in their journey. “I really wanted queer people to see their experience and the complicatedness of that experience,” Skinner said, adding that the show’s “villain” is the societal obsession with traditional masculinity, which affects everyone, queer or not.

    The series marks a significant milestone in Skinner’s career, who previously starred in Chelsea Peretti’s First Time Female Director. Now, with Overcompensating, Skinner is paving the way for queer narratives that go beyond the surface-level portrayal of coming out, aiming to delve into the messiness of identity and self-discovery. Skinner also teased that the series will have a multi-season arc, with at least four seasons planned.

    Charli XCX: Star Power and Multi-Talented Collaborator

    Adding to the excitement surrounding the show is Charli XCX, who has been making waves not only in music but also in cinema. Known for her hit songs like “360” and “Von Dutch,” Charli XCX has expanded her career with roles in several films, including Cathy Yan’s The Gallerist and Romain Gavras’ Sacrifice. She is also rumored to be in talks for a role in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Narnia adaptation, reportedly being considered for the iconic role of Jadis, The White Witch. Her involvement in Overcompensating adds another layer of star power to the project, as she continues to dominate both the music and film industries.

    Premiere Date and What to Expect

    Overcompensating is set to premiere on May 15 on Prime Video, offering a fresh and exciting take on the college comedy genre with a distinct queer perspective. Fans of Skinner and Charli XCX can expect a witty, heartfelt, and sometimes messy exploration of the journey to find one’s true self.

    Check out the teaser for Overcompensating below.

  • Benito Skinner Explores College Life and Identity in New Dramedy ‘Overcompensating’ for Prime Video

    Benito Skinner Explores College Life and Identity in New Dramedy ‘Overcompensating’ for Prime Video

    Benito Skinner, widely recognized for his viral internet persona as Benny Drama, is stepping into the world of television with his new semi-autobiographical comedy series, Overcompensating. In an a first look, Skinner, who created, wrote, and executive produced the series, shares a story of self-discovery, friendship, and the complexities of college life through the eyes of his character, Benny.

    The series is set in a college environment and follows Benny, a closeted former football player and homecoming king, as he navigates his way through the ups and downs of student life. The show dives deep into the trials of trying to fit into different social circles, all while struggling with his own identity. Benny forms an unexpected and fast friendship with Carmen, a fellow student played by Wally Baram, who is an outsider desperately trying to fit in at any cost. Together, they tackle the messiness of college life, with its “horrible hookups, flavored vodka, and fake IDs,” all while attempting to find themselves in the process.

    According to Skinner, Overcompensating is more than just a comedy about college—it is a dramedy that delves into the lengths people go to overcompensate for their insecurities while on the path of self-discovery. “I think we all have moments in our lives where we try to pretend to be someone we’re not, especially in college,” Skinner said. “This series explores the tension between the image we want to project and the person we’re really trying to figure out how to be.”

    Skinner portrays Benny in the series, and his personal experiences as a college student are reflected in the character. Benny’s journey of navigating the complexities of identity and acceptance will resonate with viewers who have experienced the pressures of fitting into certain social molds or reconciling their public persona with their true selves.

    The show is also notable for its star-studded cast, which includes both seasoned actors and rising talents. Overcompensating features Kyle MacLachlan and Connie Britton as Benny’s on-screen parents, adding star power to the show’s dynamic. Both actors, known for their iconic roles in Twin Peaks and Friday Night Lights, respectively, bring depth and nuance to their roles. MacLachlan’s character, John, and Britton’s character, Kathryn, serve as loving yet flawed figures in Benny’s life who offer guidance, but also embody the pressures and expectations that many college students feel from their families.

    Rish Shah, a series regular, plays Benny’s best friend, Miles, who helps him navigate the chaotic world of college. Miles and Benny’s friendship is at the heart of the show, with both characters offering each other support as they try to figure out who they are in the face of societal expectations. The bond between Benny and Carmen, as well as Benny’s relationship with his older sister (played by Mary Beth Barone of Black Mirror), will also be central to the show’s exploration of identity and self-acceptance.

    Joining the ensemble cast in guest roles are Kaia Gerber, Owen Thiele, and Grammy-winning pop star Charli XCX, who also serves as the executive music producer for the series. Charli XCX’s involvement adds a unique layer to the project, bringing her pop expertise to the music-driven moments within Overcompensating. As an executive music producer, she is helping to shape the show’s musical landscape and elevate the emotional beats with a carefully curated soundtrack that speaks to the themes of the show.

    The collaboration between Skinner and Charli XCX isn’t the only exciting partnership for the project. Overcompensating is being produced by A24, a production company known for its work on critically acclaimed projects such as Lady Bird and Euphoria. In addition, Jonah Hill serves as an executive producer through his production company, Strong Baby, further elevating the show’s pedigree.

    Skinner’s rise to fame through his Benny Drama persona on social media has allowed him to develop a unique voice in the entertainment industry. His viral celebrity impressions and satirical skits, which often parody popular culture and Hollywood figures, garnered widespread attention and caught the eye of the stars he mimicked. Skinner’s collaborations with A-list celebrities, such as Drew Barrymore, Kourtney Kardashian, and Jennifer Aniston, have made him a household name. With Overcompensating, Skinner transitions from internet sensation to a full-fledged television creator, drawing from his own experiences while creating an entertaining narrative about self-exploration and the awkwardness of adolescence.

    Skinner has expressed excitement about bringing Overcompensating to a wider audience, stating, “It’s a dream come true to be able to create a show that combines my love for humor, personal storytelling, and the awkwardness of growing up. College is such a weird, confusing time, and I’m excited to share a piece of that experience with people.”

    All episodes of Overcompensating are set to drop on Prime Video on May 15, giving audiences the chance to binge-watch the entire season in one go. Fans can expect a mix of humor, heart, and authentic moments that tackle real-life issues with a comedic lens. The show promises to explore the absurdity of college culture while simultaneously offering a relatable, heartfelt exploration of identity and self-acceptance.

    With its unique blend of comedy, drama, and musical elements, Overcompensating is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of Skinner’s work, as well as those who enjoy coming-of-age stories with an edgy twist. The series is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with fitting in, overcompensated in the face of insecurity, or tried to find themselves amidst the chaos of college life.

    As the countdown to its May release begins, Overcompensating is already generating buzz as one of the most anticipated shows of 2025. With a talented cast, a unique premise, and a creative team led by Benito Skinner, the series is poised to be a breakout hit when it premieres on Prime Video.

  • Netflix Unveils Star-Studded 2025 Film Slate with Blockbusters, Documentaries, and Highly Anticipated Sequels

    Netflix Unveils Star-Studded 2025 Film Slate with Blockbusters, Documentaries, and Highly Anticipated Sequels

    Netflix has just announced its much-anticipated 2025 film slate, promising an exciting year of content that spans across multiple genres, star-studded performances, and high-profile directorial projects. In its latest “Next on Netflix” presentation, which included appearances from Tina Fey, Ben Affleck, John Mulaney, and the Duffer Brothers, the streaming giant unveiled a robust lineup of films that will hit the platform in 2025. From heartwarming comedies to gripping documentaries and thrilling sequels, Netflix is preparing to captivate global audiences throughout the year.

    Following a strong 2024, which saw critical successes such as “Emilia Pérez”—which nabbed 13 Academy Award nominations—Netflix is gearing up to deliver a year of diverse and compelling films. According to film chief Dan Lin, the pressure is on to continue the momentum with a mix of high-profile original films and returning fan-favorite franchises.

    Major Films, TV Series, and Star-Studded Releases

    One of the most buzzed-about titles in Netflix’s 2025 slate is Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated “Frankenstein,” slated for a November release. This gothic retelling will star Oscar Isaac as the mad scientist Victor Frankenstein, while Jacob Elordi will portray the iconic monster. The film promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally charged reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic, with Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz rounding out the impressive cast.

    The series “You” starring Penn Badgley has also dropped its trailer for the highly anticipated season 5.

    Also generating a lot of attention is “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” a continuation of Rian Johnson’s wildly popular “Knives Out” franchise. Daniel Craig returns as the brilliant detective Benoit Blanc in the third installment of the series, which will feature an ensemble cast including Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, and Jeremy Renner. Fans of the first two films can expect another thrilling whodunit with plenty of twists and turns.

    George Clooney fans will also get their fix with “Jay Kelly,” a comedy from Noah Baumbach, which stars Clooney in a leading role. The film will also feature an all-star cast including Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, and Greta Gerwig, ensuring a starry lineup for this intriguing comedy.

    Notable Documentaries

    In addition to its blockbuster films, Netflix is also set to release a slate of compelling documentaries. Among the most anticipated is a film about legendary comedian Eddie Murphy, offering an in-depth look at his career and influence on comedy and pop culture. Other documentaries include a deep dive into the Manson murders, a chronicle of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and a gripping account of Osama Bin Laden’s capture.

    Additionally, viewers will get an inside look at the Air Force’s elite Thunderbirds squadron and a documentary about the Long Island serial killer. Netflix will also explore environmental issues with a film about endangered pangolins and a chilling examination of the Titan submersible disaster.

    Highlights of Netflix’s 2025 Film Schedule

    Winter 2025:

    • “Kinda Pregnant” (Feb. 5): Amy Schumer stars in this romantic comedy about a woman who wears a fake pregnancy belly and ends up meeting the man of her dreams. The film also features Jillian Bell and Damon Wayans Jr.

    • “The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep” (Feb. 11): This animated fantasy series expands Netflix’s “The Witcher” universe. Geralt of Rivia faces a new threat as he’s pulled into a conflict between humans and merpeople, setting the stage for an epic battle to avoid war.
    • “La Dolce Villa” (Feb. 13): Scott Foley stars in this romantic comedy about a businessman who travels to Italy to stop his daughter from restoring a crumbling villa—only to discover romance and magic in the process.

    Spring 2025:

    • “Plankton: The Movie” (March 7): The latest installment in the “SpongeBob SquarePants” universe, focusing on Plankton’s thwarted plans for world domination.
    • “The Electric State” (March 14): A sci-fi thriller starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, set in an alternate 1990s following a robot uprising. The film follows a teenager and her robot companion as they embark on a journey to find her brother.

    • “The Life List” (March 28): A heartwarming romance starring Sofia Carson and Connie Britton, following a woman’s journey to complete her childhood bucket list, discovering romance and family secrets along the way.

    Summer 2025:

    • “The Old Guard 2” (July 2): Fans of the first movie will be thrilled to see Charlize Theron return as Andy, the immortal mercenary, facing a new enemy in this highly anticipated sequel.
    • “Fear Street: Prom Queen” (Summer 2025): The latest installment in the “Fear Street” franchise, set during prom season at Shadyside High. A mysterious series of disappearances turns a prom night into a deadly nightmare.

    Fall 2025:

    • “Frankenstein” (November 2025): Guillermo del Toro’s take on the iconic monster story, starring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi.
    • “RIP” (Fall 2025): Ben Affleck and Matt Damon team up in this intense thriller about Miami cops discovering millions of dollars in a drug stash house, leading to fractured trust and a web of corruption.

    • Matt Damon and Ben Affleck for "Rip"
      Matt Damon and Ben Affleck for “Rip”
    • “The Woman in Cabin 10” (Fall 2025): Keira Knightley stars in this adaptation of Ruth Ware’s thriller, where a journalist witnesses a murder at sea but no one believes her, sparking a dangerous investigation.

    Animated Features and Special Projects

    In addition to the live-action films, Netflix is also launching several highly anticipated animated features in 2025. Highlights include “K-Pop: Demon Hunters,” which follows a K-pop girl group leading double lives as demon hunters, and “In Your Dreams,” a whimsical adventure about two siblings navigating their dream world. Animated rom-coms like “Lost in Starlight” and “Pookoo” will also appeal to audiences seeking unique storytelling in the animated space.