The first trailer has gone online for director Paul Schrader’s sexualized indie thriller, The Canyons.  Starring Lindsay Lohan, porn star James Deen and Gus Van Sant (really), The Canyons spins a tale on the dangers of sexual obsession and ambition among a group of twenty-somethings and a chance event that unravels all of their lives.  The trailer, presented in a grindhouse aesthetic with appropriate music and filters applied, introduces us to the characters and a sense of danger in the film, but gives little in the way of plot.  The Canyons, written by Bret Easton Ellis (American Psycho) also stars Nolan Funk and Amanda Brooks.  Hit the jump to check out the trailer.

Vin Diesel recently posted some updates on his Facebook page that suggest we might be seeing Riddick as early as January of next year.  Principal photography wrapped recently on Riddick, the third film in a franchise that started with Pitch Black. While Diesel was hoping to see a release in 2012, this comes as a good sign that the studio is happy with what they’re seeing.  That bodes well, not only for Riddick, but for the potential sequels if Riddick proves commercially successful.  Be sure to check out some images from set here. The extensive cast includes Karl Urban, Katee Sackhoff, Jordi Molla, Bokeem Woodbine, David Bautista, Matt Nable, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, and Keri Hilson. Hit the jump to see what Diesel had to say.

In case you were somehow confused by the recent set photos Vin Diesel has been sending out, Universal Pictures has announced that principal photography has officially begun on Riddick.  The press release provides an updated synopsis and casting info.  We knew that Diesel would be joined by Karl Urban, Katee Sackhoff, and Jordi Molla, but now Bokeem Woodbine and David Bautista have been confirmed as cast members.  The film also stars Matt Nable, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, and Keri Hilson.

Hit the jump for the press release.