Jada Smith has endured a rough phase of her life growing up. Her recent memoir Worthy, released last October, is the reminiscence of her that phase of life when she had to sell drugs in her teens. The actor has been vocal about the recognition of Black artists on global platforms.
Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish Mooney
While speaking with NPR, the Girls Trip actor meticulously discussed Black Gen X women celebrities, and her stance on this matter is prevalent in movies like A Different World, Jason’s Lyric, Menace II Society, and Set It Off. The actor said that she wanted to connect to those who have experienced the same as her early days because she thinks they were really invisible.
SUGGESTEDTwo Burglars Reportedly Broke into Jada Smith’s LA Home, She Scared Them So Bad Even the Cops Couldn’t Find Them Jada Smith Speaks on the Strength of...
Jada Pinkett Smith as Fish Mooney
While speaking with NPR, the Girls Trip actor meticulously discussed Black Gen X women celebrities, and her stance on this matter is prevalent in movies like A Different World, Jason’s Lyric, Menace II Society, and Set It Off. The actor said that she wanted to connect to those who have experienced the same as her early days because she thinks they were really invisible.
SUGGESTEDTwo Burglars Reportedly Broke into Jada Smith’s LA Home, She Scared Them So Bad Even the Cops Couldn’t Find Them Jada Smith Speaks on the Strength of...
- 3/3/2024
- by Prantik Prabal Roy
- FandomWire
Daryl McCormack as Colman and Ruth Wilson as Lorna in ‘The Woman in the Wall’ (Photo Credit: Chris Barr / BBC / Showtime)
Paramount+’s January 2024 lineup includes the series premiere of Sexy Beast, a prequel to the critically acclaimed, award-winning drama released in 2000 and starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Ray Winstone. The streaming service’s also kicking off the new year with the debut of The Woman in the Wall, a six-episode series starring Ruth Wilson (His Dark Materials) and Daryl McCormack (Bad Sisters).
June Carter Cash is the focus of June, a feature-length documentary directed by Emmy Award-winner Kristen Vaurio (Going Clear: Scientology & The Prison of Belief) arriving on January 16. January 2024 also sees the return of SkyMed, a medical drama set in the world of medics and pilots who fly air ambulances in Canada, for its second season.
Coming to Paramount+ on January 1
54
5 Card Stud
A Promise*
A Single Man*
A.
Paramount+’s January 2024 lineup includes the series premiere of Sexy Beast, a prequel to the critically acclaimed, award-winning drama released in 2000 and starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Ray Winstone. The streaming service’s also kicking off the new year with the debut of The Woman in the Wall, a six-episode series starring Ruth Wilson (His Dark Materials) and Daryl McCormack (Bad Sisters).
June Carter Cash is the focus of June, a feature-length documentary directed by Emmy Award-winner Kristen Vaurio (Going Clear: Scientology & The Prison of Belief) arriving on January 16. January 2024 also sees the return of SkyMed, a medical drama set in the world of medics and pilots who fly air ambulances in Canada, for its second season.
Coming to Paramount+ on January 1
54
5 Card Stud
A Promise*
A Single Man*
A.
- 12/23/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Jeymes Samuel was intent on putting a “hood” vibe into his Biblical epic The Book of Clarence starring Lakeith Stanfield as the eponymous Clarence, a local lad in the Holy Land who gets by dealing weed and holding chariot races against a no-nonsense Mary Magdalene. Clarence soon sees an opening to make some bucks in the Messiah business but then he realizes that miracles can happen when you least expect them. The Book of Clarence, which also features Rj Cyler, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Omar Sy, David Oyelowo, Teyana Taylor, Anna Diop and Michael Ward, follows the director’s debut feature, The Harder They Fall, which spiced up the Western genre.
Deadline: All praise to you because I usually run so fast from Biblical movies, but this one answered my prayers.
Jeymes Samuel: Yeah, we know we’re just in a place and time that we’ve never been. I think...
Deadline: All praise to you because I usually run so fast from Biblical movies, but this one answered my prayers.
Jeymes Samuel: Yeah, we know we’re just in a place and time that we’ve never been. I think...
- 11/27/2023
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Kicking October to the curb and bringing in some November goodness is a fresh slate of new content headed to Paramount Global’s streamer Paramount+, including the sequel to the hit 1997 film “Good Burger.”
Paramount+ started off November by adding more than 30 titles to its library, some of which include “Above the Rim,” Season 15 of “Ink Master,” “Gladiator” and “The Color Purple.”
And if you’re looking for some holiday movies to watch with the family, you can deck the halls with “Happy Christmas,” “Mistletoe Ranch” or “Christmas Eve.” When the kids go to sleep, adult-friendly treats like “Bad Santa” and “Bad Santa 2” are also available.
The highly-anticipated “Good Burger 2,” which stars Kel Mitchell, Keenan Thompson, Shar Jackson, Carmen Electra, Josh Server, Alex R. Hibbert, Lori Beth Denberg and Lil Rel Howery, hits the platform on Nov. 22
Here’s everything coming to Paramount+ this November, from “The Truman Show” to “Paw Patrol.
Paramount+ started off November by adding more than 30 titles to its library, some of which include “Above the Rim,” Season 15 of “Ink Master,” “Gladiator” and “The Color Purple.”
And if you’re looking for some holiday movies to watch with the family, you can deck the halls with “Happy Christmas,” “Mistletoe Ranch” or “Christmas Eve.” When the kids go to sleep, adult-friendly treats like “Bad Santa” and “Bad Santa 2” are also available.
The highly-anticipated “Good Burger 2,” which stars Kel Mitchell, Keenan Thompson, Shar Jackson, Carmen Electra, Josh Server, Alex R. Hibbert, Lori Beth Denberg and Lil Rel Howery, hits the platform on Nov. 22
Here’s everything coming to Paramount+ this November, from “The Truman Show” to “Paw Patrol.
- 11/3/2023
- by Raquel 'Rocky' Harris
- The Wrap
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
It was only a few days ago that the Criterion Collection had a surprise flash sale. The home video company’s entire catalog was slashed down to 50% off list prices. While that sale only lasted for 24 hours, there are a number of titles that are still on sale for half-off at Amazon.
We rounded up the best deals on Criterion Collection releases, including Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing,” Dennis Hopper’s “Easy Rider,” Whit Stillman’s “The Last Days of Disco” and much more. In fact, even a few boxed sets are half off, such as Krzysztof Kieślowski’s “The Dekalog” and Steve McQueen’s “Small Axe” anthology.
Ahead, check out the best Criterion Blu-ray discs currently on sale for 50% off at Amazon:
‘Do the Right Thing...
It was only a few days ago that the Criterion Collection had a surprise flash sale. The home video company’s entire catalog was slashed down to 50% off list prices. While that sale only lasted for 24 hours, there are a number of titles that are still on sale for half-off at Amazon.
We rounded up the best deals on Criterion Collection releases, including Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing,” Dennis Hopper’s “Easy Rider,” Whit Stillman’s “The Last Days of Disco” and much more. In fact, even a few boxed sets are half off, such as Krzysztof Kieślowski’s “The Dekalog” and Steve McQueen’s “Small Axe” anthology.
Ahead, check out the best Criterion Blu-ray discs currently on sale for 50% off at Amazon:
‘Do the Right Thing...
- 10/20/2023
- by Anna Tingley and Rudie Obias
- Variety Film + TV
Since emerging into the spotlight in the 1990s, Jada Pinkett Smith has arguably become equally known for her acting career and her romantic relationships. Pinkett Smith launched her career with guest roles on shows like "True Colors" and "21 Jump Street," but her role as Lena James in the sitcom "A Different World" propelled her into stardom. From there, Pinkett Smith starred in several popular flicks in the '90s, including "Menace II Society," "The Nutty Professor," and "Scream 2." Her career in the 2000s continued to soar with roles in "The Matrix" franchise and "Madagascar," and by the 2010s, she starred in films like "Magic Mike Xxl," "Girls Trip," and "Angel Has Fallen."
Pinkett Smith is also recognized for her talk show, "Red Table Talk," which she hosted with her mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, and daughter Willow Smith. Since its premiere in 2018, "Rtt" has featured a number of notable guests,...
Pinkett Smith is also recognized for her talk show, "Red Table Talk," which she hosted with her mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, and daughter Willow Smith. Since its premiere in 2018, "Rtt" has featured a number of notable guests,...
- 10/16/2023
- by Alicia Geigel
- Popsugar.com
Rudolph Isley, a founding member of the Grammy-winning Isley Brothers who helped create some of the most memorable songs in American musical history, has died. His brother Ron confirmed the news to Deadline. Rudolph Isley was 84.
In a statement provided to Deadline, Ron Isley said of his brother’s passing, “There are no words to express my feelings and the love I have for my brother. Our family will miss him. But I know he’s in a better place.”
The Isley Brothers have had various lineups through the years, but Rudy was with the band from its beginnings in the late 1950s to his retirement from music in 1989, when he took up a Christian ministry. During that time, they recorded such classics as “Shout,” cowritten by Rudy, which in 1959 became their first single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. The record sold over a million copies. The group went...
In a statement provided to Deadline, Ron Isley said of his brother’s passing, “There are no words to express my feelings and the love I have for my brother. Our family will miss him. But I know he’s in a better place.”
The Isley Brothers have had various lineups through the years, but Rudy was with the band from its beginnings in the late 1950s to his retirement from music in 1989, when he took up a Christian ministry. During that time, they recorded such classics as “Shout,” cowritten by Rudy, which in 1959 became their first single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. The record sold over a million copies. The group went...
- 10/12/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
In the first “John Wick,” Keanu Reeves’ titular character — a former assassin brought out of retirement after some goons kill his dog and steal his car — confirms his return with the often quoted line: “Yeah, I’m thinking I’m back.” And one of the many joys of “The Continental,” the new “John Wick” spin-off series that concludes Friday, is the fact that Albert Hughes is back.
He directed “Menace II Society” and “Dead Presidents” with his brother Allen. For “The Continental,” he helmed “Night 1” and Friday’s “Night 3” – essentially two feature-length movies set within the “John Wick” universe.
Not that he was totally sold on the idea, at least initially.
Before Hughes signed on, they wanted a single filmmaker to do all three nights. He described that idea as “daunting.” But then he started thinking about the Old Hollywood system, where directors would make multiple movies every year.
“Now...
He directed “Menace II Society” and “Dead Presidents” with his brother Allen. For “The Continental,” he helmed “Night 1” and Friday’s “Night 3” – essentially two feature-length movies set within the “John Wick” universe.
Not that he was totally sold on the idea, at least initially.
Before Hughes signed on, they wanted a single filmmaker to do all three nights. He described that idea as “daunting.” But then he started thinking about the Old Hollywood system, where directors would make multiple movies every year.
“Now...
- 10/6/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Tupac Shakur’s one-time video director and now biographer has explained why he made a docuseries about the late rapper, despite being previously beaten up by him.
Allen Hughes, whose five-part docuseries Dear Mama is available on Hulu in the US, and will debut on the Disney+ platform in the UK on 1st October, told The Guardian newspaper that the altercation, which occurred three years before Shakur’s death, came from a misunderstanding after the pair clashed on the set of Hughes’s film Menace II Society.
Shakur had been cast in the film, but the pair disagreed over his character’s backstory, and Shakur walked off the production. A few months later, Hughes was beaten by the rapper’s entourage, with Shakur convicted of assault and sentenced to 15 days in jail.
Hughes told The Guardian: “Before I would’ve said [it was] just Tupac, but now I’d say both...
Allen Hughes, whose five-part docuseries Dear Mama is available on Hulu in the US, and will debut on the Disney+ platform in the UK on 1st October, told The Guardian newspaper that the altercation, which occurred three years before Shakur’s death, came from a misunderstanding after the pair clashed on the set of Hughes’s film Menace II Society.
Shakur had been cast in the film, but the pair disagreed over his character’s backstory, and Shakur walked off the production. A few months later, Hughes was beaten by the rapper’s entourage, with Shakur convicted of assault and sentenced to 15 days in jail.
Hughes told The Guardian: “Before I would’ve said [it was] just Tupac, but now I’d say both...
- 9/23/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
In 1995, brothers Albert and Allen Hughes followed their electrifying directorial debut “Menace II Society” with “Dead Presidents,” an ambitious crime film set in 1970s New York filled with specific political references to illustrate the shameful treatment of Black veterans returning to the U.S. after the Vietnam War. Albert returns to that era as the director of the first and final episodes of Peacock’s “The Continental: From the World of John Wick,” a three-part prequel to the “John Wick” universe set in the titular hotel during the 1970s in New York City. The episodes exhibit Hughes’ usual strengths, from a balletic interaction between blocking, music, and camera movement to a bold, expressive color palette, but “The Continental” is a vastly different take on ’70s NYC than what Hughes learned on “Dead Presidents” — and that’s just the way Hughes likes it.
“The wonderful thing about the ‘John Wick’ films...
“The wonderful thing about the ‘John Wick’ films...
- 9/22/2023
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
The highly-anticipated spin-off “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” premiered Friday on a streaming platform some in the industry would find surprising.
What makes the show stand out — apart from its miniseries format, comprised of three movie-sized episodes spread across three consecutive Fridays (a callback to television events of yore) — is the fact that the prequel, spun off from one of the crown jewels of the Lionsgate portfolio, landed on the NBCUniversal-owned streamer rather than on Starz, Lionsgate’s own premiere cable channel and streaming platform.
The question remains: Why?
The show takes place in New York in the 1970s, but exists in the same shared, blood-splattered universe where, decades later, Keanu Reeves’ John Wick would go on a roaring rampage of revenge.
Basil Iwanyk, founder of Thunder Road Films, the production and financing company behind “John Wick” and “The Continental,” said the decision to move the...
What makes the show stand out — apart from its miniseries format, comprised of three movie-sized episodes spread across three consecutive Fridays (a callback to television events of yore) — is the fact that the prequel, spun off from one of the crown jewels of the Lionsgate portfolio, landed on the NBCUniversal-owned streamer rather than on Starz, Lionsgate’s own premiere cable channel and streaming platform.
The question remains: Why?
The show takes place in New York in the 1970s, but exists in the same shared, blood-splattered universe where, decades later, Keanu Reeves’ John Wick would go on a roaring rampage of revenge.
Basil Iwanyk, founder of Thunder Road Films, the production and financing company behind “John Wick” and “The Continental,” said the decision to move the...
- 9/22/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Film Independent’s annual Board Member Matching Campaign has been extended to September 29! To raise support for the next 30 years of filmmaker support, all donations make before or on the 29th will be doubled—dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000. To celebrate the campaign, we’re re-posting a few of our most popular blogs.
For those of us who have been here for a decade or two, it’s remarkable to consider both how much and how little the city of Los Angeles has changed over the years. There are still plenty of the old landmarks—the Hollywood Sign, Pink’s Hot Dogs, that dude who rollerblades around is white robes and plays guitar on the Venice boardwalk—while other, seemingly indestructible, institutions have tragically bitten the dust.
So! With local issues perpetually at the forefront of our mind this week, here now are ten films that remind us of life in Los...
For those of us who have been here for a decade or two, it’s remarkable to consider both how much and how little the city of Los Angeles has changed over the years. There are still plenty of the old landmarks—the Hollywood Sign, Pink’s Hot Dogs, that dude who rollerblades around is white robes and plays guitar on the Venice boardwalk—while other, seemingly indestructible, institutions have tragically bitten the dust.
So! With local issues perpetually at the forefront of our mind this week, here now are ten films that remind us of life in Los...
- 9/20/2023
- by Film Independent
- Film Independent News & More
Tupac Shakur (Tim Mosenfelder/Getty), Allen Hughes (Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty), Menace II Society (Warner Bros.)Graphic: Karl Gustafson
Menace II Society, which celebrated the 30th anniversary of its theatrical release in May, was not the first urban drama to capture the nation’s attention in the late 1980s and 1990s,...
Menace II Society, which celebrated the 30th anniversary of its theatrical release in May, was not the first urban drama to capture the nation’s attention in the late 1980s and 1990s,...
- 8/28/2023
- by Timothy Cogshell
- avclub.com
The John Wick movies have created a loyal fanbase with their stunning action scenes and intriguing world of assassins. But there is more to this world than meets the eye, and one of the most mysterious elements is the Continental, the chain of hotels that cater to the killers and offer them a safe haven and a source of information, connections and resources.
But how did the Continental come to be? And who is the man behind it? These questions and more will be answered in The Continental, a spin-off prequel series that will explore the origins of the hotel and its owner, Winston Scott. And we have some big updates for you about this highly anticipated show.
The Continental will premiere on Peacock, the streaming service of NBCUniversal, on September 22, 2021. The show will consist of three episodes, each lasting 90 minutes.
The Continental Trailer
The first and third episodes will be directed by Albert Hughes,...
But how did the Continental come to be? And who is the man behind it? These questions and more will be answered in The Continental, a spin-off prequel series that will explore the origins of the hotel and its owner, Winston Scott. And we have some big updates for you about this highly anticipated show.
The Continental will premiere on Peacock, the streaming service of NBCUniversal, on September 22, 2021. The show will consist of three episodes, each lasting 90 minutes.
The Continental Trailer
The first and third episodes will be directed by Albert Hughes,...
- 7/22/2023
- by amalprasadappu
- https://thecinemanews.online/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_4649
Tupac Shakur was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame on Wednesday.
Shakur is remembered as an iconic American rapper. He was just 25 years old when he was shot at a red light while driving in Las Vegas. He spent six days in the hospital before he succumbed to his injuries. It is still unknown who murdered him.
Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa ‘Set’ Shakur, accepted the star on behalf of her brother at the ceremony. Other guests will be there to honor the rapper, including Big Boy, a radio personality on iHeart Radio, Jamal Joseph and Allen Hughes.
Hughes has directed the movies Menace II Society, The Book of Eli, Broken City, Dead Presidents, From Hell, American Pimp and many more. He directed the movie Tupac: Resurrection in 2003, which was about the life of Shakur.
Joseph is an author and director who currently works at Columbia University.
Shakur is remembered as an iconic American rapper. He was just 25 years old when he was shot at a red light while driving in Las Vegas. He spent six days in the hospital before he succumbed to his injuries. It is still unknown who murdered him.
Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa ‘Set’ Shakur, accepted the star on behalf of her brother at the ceremony. Other guests will be there to honor the rapper, including Big Boy, a radio personality on iHeart Radio, Jamal Joseph and Allen Hughes.
Hughes has directed the movies Menace II Society, The Book of Eli, Broken City, Dead Presidents, From Hell, American Pimp and many more. He directed the movie Tupac: Resurrection in 2003, which was about the life of Shakur.
Joseph is an author and director who currently works at Columbia University.
- 6/8/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
Los Angeles, April 21 (Ians) Snoop Dogg’s biopic is one step closer to the big screen as director Allen Hughes confirmed that the movie about the rapper is set to begin production imminently.
“That’s next. We’re starting this summer. I’m so excited,” Hughes told Variety.
Hughes – an Emmy and Peabody award nominee whose filmography includes ‘Menace II Society’, ‘Dead Presidents’, ‘The Book of Elia’ and ‘The Defiant Ones’ – will direct the yet-to-be-titled biopic.
Announced in November, the Universal movie is the first film produced by Death Row Pictures, following Snoop’s acquisition of Death Row Records in 2022.
“He surprised me with that biopic,” Hughes said of signing on to the film, which is billed as the “definitive” take on Snoop’s life and career.
“I can’t wait to go back to the hood, and do a hood story that becomes inspirational. That’s what I get from him.
“That’s next. We’re starting this summer. I’m so excited,” Hughes told Variety.
Hughes – an Emmy and Peabody award nominee whose filmography includes ‘Menace II Society’, ‘Dead Presidents’, ‘The Book of Elia’ and ‘The Defiant Ones’ – will direct the yet-to-be-titled biopic.
Announced in November, the Universal movie is the first film produced by Death Row Pictures, following Snoop’s acquisition of Death Row Records in 2022.
“He surprised me with that biopic,” Hughes said of signing on to the film, which is billed as the “definitive” take on Snoop’s life and career.
“I can’t wait to go back to the hood, and do a hood story that becomes inspirational. That’s what I get from him.
- 4/21/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Snoop Dogg’s story is one step closer to the big screen as director Allen Hughes confirmed the Universal biopic about the rapper is set to begin production imminently.
“That’s next. We’re starting this summer. I’m so excited,” Hughes told Variety on Tuesday night at the premiere of his upcoming FX docuseries “Dear Mama,” which chronicles the lives of Tupac Shakur and his mother, Afeni Shakur.
Hughes — an Emmy and Peabody award nominee whose filmography includes “Menace II Society,” “Dead Presidents,” “The Book of Eli” and “The Defiant Ones” — will direct the yet-to-be-titled Snoop Dogg biopic. Announced in November, the Universal movie is the first film produced by Death Row Pictures, following Snoop’s acquisition of Death Row Records in 2022.
“He surprised me with that biopic,” Hughes said of signing on to the film, which is billed as the “definitive” take on Snoop’s life and career.
“That’s next. We’re starting this summer. I’m so excited,” Hughes told Variety on Tuesday night at the premiere of his upcoming FX docuseries “Dear Mama,” which chronicles the lives of Tupac Shakur and his mother, Afeni Shakur.
Hughes — an Emmy and Peabody award nominee whose filmography includes “Menace II Society,” “Dead Presidents,” “The Book of Eli” and “The Defiant Ones” — will direct the yet-to-be-titled Snoop Dogg biopic. Announced in November, the Universal movie is the first film produced by Death Row Pictures, following Snoop’s acquisition of Death Row Records in 2022.
“He surprised me with that biopic,” Hughes said of signing on to the film, which is billed as the “definitive” take on Snoop’s life and career.
- 4/20/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Over 100 popular films are leaving HBO Max at the end of the month, but luckily you have the whole month to stream them.
They include cinema classics like “Ben Hur,” the winningest film in Oscars history
Leaving April 5
The Inside Story, 1948
Reminiscence, 2021 (HBO)
Leaving April 11
Adult Swim Yule Log (aka The Fireplace)
Leaving April 12
About Face: Supermodels Then and Now, 2012 (HBO)
Leaving April 13
The Last Duel, 2021
Game Theory With Bomani Jones, Season 1
Leaving April 18
The Lego Batman Movie, 2017
Leaving April 24
Tom and Jerry Cowboy Up!, 2022
Leaving April 27
Malignant, 2021 (HBO)
Leaving April 30
47 Ronin, 2013 (HBO)
3 Godfathers, 1948
Accepted, 2006 (HBO)
The Adventures of Robin Hood, 1938
A Private War, 2018 (HBO)
An American in Paris, 1951
The American President, 1995
Any Given Sunday, 1999
Australia, 2008 (HBO)
Before I Fall, 2017 (HBO)
Ben-Hur, 1959
Black Legion, 1937
Blade, 1998
Blood Diamond, 2006
Blow Out, 1981 (HBO)
The Bodyguard, 1992
Boogie Nights, 1997
The Book of Eli, 2010
The Bourne Identity, 2002 (HBO)
The Bourne Supremacy, 2004 (HBO)
Bringing up Baby,...
They include cinema classics like “Ben Hur,” the winningest film in Oscars history
Leaving April 5
The Inside Story, 1948
Reminiscence, 2021 (HBO)
Leaving April 11
Adult Swim Yule Log (aka The Fireplace)
Leaving April 12
About Face: Supermodels Then and Now, 2012 (HBO)
Leaving April 13
The Last Duel, 2021
Game Theory With Bomani Jones, Season 1
Leaving April 18
The Lego Batman Movie, 2017
Leaving April 24
Tom and Jerry Cowboy Up!, 2022
Leaving April 27
Malignant, 2021 (HBO)
Leaving April 30
47 Ronin, 2013 (HBO)
3 Godfathers, 1948
Accepted, 2006 (HBO)
The Adventures of Robin Hood, 1938
A Private War, 2018 (HBO)
An American in Paris, 1951
The American President, 1995
Any Given Sunday, 1999
Australia, 2008 (HBO)
Before I Fall, 2017 (HBO)
Ben-Hur, 1959
Black Legion, 1937
Blade, 1998
Blood Diamond, 2006
Blow Out, 1981 (HBO)
The Bodyguard, 1992
Boogie Nights, 1997
The Book of Eli, 2010
The Bourne Identity, 2002 (HBO)
The Bourne Supremacy, 2004 (HBO)
Bringing up Baby,...
- 4/4/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Image Source: YouTube user FX Networks
It's Tupac and Afeni Shakur like you've never seen them before. FX released the trailer for its new five-part docuseries "Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni & Tupac Shakur" on March 22, and it's an emotional and reflective look at the bond between Tupac, the legendary rapper who died at just 25 years old in 1996, and his mother, Afeni. As Tupac notes in an archival interview in the trailer, his mother was a Black Panther and political activist who instilled her values of freedom, power, and revolution into her son, whom she gave birth to in 1971 when she was 24.
Tupac notes in the interview, which he gave when he was 17, that he and his mom had a complicated relationship. While he cherished many of the lessons she taught him, she was also often unavailable because of her life in activism. And as Tupac detailed in his song "Dear Mama,...
It's Tupac and Afeni Shakur like you've never seen them before. FX released the trailer for its new five-part docuseries "Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni & Tupac Shakur" on March 22, and it's an emotional and reflective look at the bond between Tupac, the legendary rapper who died at just 25 years old in 1996, and his mother, Afeni. As Tupac notes in an archival interview in the trailer, his mother was a Black Panther and political activist who instilled her values of freedom, power, and revolution into her son, whom she gave birth to in 1971 when she was 24.
Tupac notes in the interview, which he gave when he was 17, that he and his mom had a complicated relationship. While he cherished many of the lessons she taught him, she was also often unavailable because of her life in activism. And as Tupac detailed in his song "Dear Mama,...
- 3/22/2023
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
With action icon (and beloved Hollywood darling) Keanu Reeves in the lead, “John Wick” has emerged as one of the biggest franchises of the past decade. Fans have had to wait awhile for a new installment since 2019’s “John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum” proved the popularity of franchise creator Derek Kolstad’s universe by grossing $56 million on opening weekend. That was more than the opening grosses of the 2014 and 2017 original films combined.
Altogether, the three films have collected more than $573 million at the global box office — which is a major milestone for an original action franchise competing against comic-book-driven eyeballs.
And in Hollywood, big box office returns mean more sequels to come. “John Wick 4” and “John Wick 5” are already in the works, with the fourth installment set for a March 24, 2023 release following multiple Covid-related delays.
“Chapter 4” kicks off the two-part finale planned for Wick. The franchise spurred upcoming spin-off...
Altogether, the three films have collected more than $573 million at the global box office — which is a major milestone for an original action franchise competing against comic-book-driven eyeballs.
And in Hollywood, big box office returns mean more sequels to come. “John Wick 4” and “John Wick 5” are already in the works, with the fourth installment set for a March 24, 2023 release following multiple Covid-related delays.
“Chapter 4” kicks off the two-part finale planned for Wick. The franchise spurred upcoming spin-off...
- 3/22/2023
- by LaToya Ferguson and Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
If you're looking to pinpoint the greatest year in hip-hop, it's going to start with a one, followed by a nine, another nine, and end with a number no higher than five. The genre that grew out of Bronx house parties thrown by sonic pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, and survived the faddish exploitation of the early and mid-1980s had finally come of age. Obviously, there were groundbreaking LPs released prior to the '90s, but it wasn't until we entered the final decade of the millennium that explorers like Hank Shocklee, Dr. Dre, DJ Premier, and Prince Paul refined their sounds to bring hard-hitting East Coast beats and blunted West Coast G-funk grooves to the ears of audiophiles across the country.
Hollywood was listening. They weren't necessarily getting it, but they were listening. Mid-'80s films like "Breakin'," "Beat Street" and "Krush Groove" captured the excitement of the...
Hollywood was listening. They weren't necessarily getting it, but they were listening. Mid-'80s films like "Breakin'," "Beat Street" and "Krush Groove" captured the excitement of the...
- 2/20/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
There’s a point when a movie starts dropping too many references to other movies that the enthusiasm gets a little suspicious. In director Thembi L. Banks’ debut feature “Young. Wild. Free.”— the title styled as such for no reason in particular — a mysterious woman with “Euphoria” eye-makeup named Cassidy (Sierra Capri) suddenly starts spouting them with abandon about 30 minutes in. “Did you know this is the diner from ‘Reservoir Dogs?,'” she says while digging into some pancakes at the diner from “Reservoir Dogs.” Over the course of the rest of the film’s running time, she proceeds to name drop “Dazed and Confused,” “Unforgiven,” and “Kill Bill.” Something is up.
And something is indeed up in the drama, which is . As the Letterboxd-friendly dialogue would imply: This is one you’ve seen before, and it’s sloppily executed.
By the time the reveal comes around you’ve been...
And something is indeed up in the drama, which is . As the Letterboxd-friendly dialogue would imply: This is one you’ve seen before, and it’s sloppily executed.
By the time the reveal comes around you’ve been...
- 1/23/2023
- by Esther Zuckerman
- Indiewire
The 1990 bubblegum hip-hop comedy “House Party,” starring Kid ‘n Play, was a movie that channeled the flavor of its moment, and influenced a lot of what came afterward. It opened in March 1990 and helped to launch the spirit of the ’90s — something at once edgy and optimistic, infused with a rogue bravura that was made to conquer. Hip-hop had been on the rise for a decade, and by the late ’80s the preeminence of N.W.A. and Public Enemy had brought an ominous new profound power to hip-hop. In the summer of 1989, Spike Lee released “Do the Right Thing,” and that movie, with its fight-the-power core, was of course a Black cinematic apotheosis suffused with equal parts exuberance and trauma.
Somehow landing in the middle of all that, here was “House Party,” a naughty rollicking New Line comedy that was comparable, in many ways, to the John Hughes films or “Animal House.
Somehow landing in the middle of all that, here was “House Party,” a naughty rollicking New Line comedy that was comparable, in many ways, to the John Hughes films or “Animal House.
- 1/12/2023
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
For the season 5 season finale, Writer/Director/Producer Adam McKay returns to the podcast to discuss movies from his favorite year of cinema… 1987.
The Movies That Made Me will return with Season 6 in January. Happy Holidays! Thank you for listening!
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Tin Men (1987)
Billy Jack (1971)
The Menu (2022)
Boyz N The Hood (1991) – John Landis’s trailer commentary
Menace II Society (1991)
Straight Out Of Brooklyn (1991)
Do The Right Thing (1989) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
School Daze (1988)
The Swarm (1978) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Squeeze (1987)
Squeeze Play (1979) – Lloyd Kaufman’s trailer commentary
Diner (1982)
Robocop (1987) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray reviews
The Evil Dead (1983) – Fede Alvarez’s trailer commentary
Evil Dead II (1987) – Mike Mendez’s trailer commentary, Alex Kirschenbaum’s review
Broadcast News (1987)
Raising Arizona (1987)
The Princess Bride (1987) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
This Is Spinal Tap (1984) – John Landis’s...
The Movies That Made Me will return with Season 6 in January. Happy Holidays! Thank you for listening!
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Tin Men (1987)
Billy Jack (1971)
The Menu (2022)
Boyz N The Hood (1991) – John Landis’s trailer commentary
Menace II Society (1991)
Straight Out Of Brooklyn (1991)
Do The Right Thing (1989) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
School Daze (1988)
The Swarm (1978) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Squeeze (1987)
Squeeze Play (1979) – Lloyd Kaufman’s trailer commentary
Diner (1982)
Robocop (1987) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray reviews
The Evil Dead (1983) – Fede Alvarez’s trailer commentary
Evil Dead II (1987) – Mike Mendez’s trailer commentary, Alex Kirschenbaum’s review
Broadcast News (1987)
Raising Arizona (1987)
The Princess Bride (1987) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
This Is Spinal Tap (1984) – John Landis’s...
- 12/20/2022
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
Tim Blake Nelson is ready to put his dukes up for Bang Bang, an upcoming boxing drama from director Vincent Grashaw. Written by Will Janowitz (The Sopranos), the story focuses on Bernard “Bang Bang” Rozyski (Nelson), a disgruntled, retired boxer in charge of caring for his grandson. While making ends meet, Bernard encounters a chance to settle an old grudge, but he’ll need to show his kin around the ropes to come out swinging like a butterfly and stinging like a bee.
Joining Nelson for Grashaw’s hard-hitting drama are Glenn Plummer, Andrew Liner, Erica Gimple, Nina Arianda, Daniella Pineda, and Kevin Corrigan.
“This project hits the most personal to me. I grew up loving the sport of boxing, but the script tackled elements I hadn’t seen before in a movie; the aftermath of a troubled fighter’s career,” said Grashaw. “I found it an incredibly moving, tragic story,...
Joining Nelson for Grashaw’s hard-hitting drama are Glenn Plummer, Andrew Liner, Erica Gimple, Nina Arianda, Daniella Pineda, and Kevin Corrigan.
“This project hits the most personal to me. I grew up loving the sport of boxing, but the script tackled elements I hadn’t seen before in a movie; the aftermath of a troubled fighter’s career,” said Grashaw. “I found it an incredibly moving, tragic story,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Karen Jones, HBO/HBO Max’s executive vice president and head of communications, is leaving the company after 23 years.
Jones made the announcement of her departure in a memo to her colleagues on Thursday.
“This won’t come as a surprise to some of you, as I’ve spoken candidly about my desire to have a next chapter, to chase new dreams and start paying it forward with more intention,” said Jones in her note. “It has been an incredible ride, and I’m tremendously grateful for all the adventures and to those with whom I’ve shared this journey. It’s the shoulder-to-the-wheel mindset that will always define us.”
Her time at the cable television company spans 23 years. She first joined HBO in 1999 and has held roles in various capacities over the years, most prominently producing publicity campaigns for HBO original programming as varied as “Westworld,” “Lovecraft Country,” “Perry Mason,...
Jones made the announcement of her departure in a memo to her colleagues on Thursday.
“This won’t come as a surprise to some of you, as I’ve spoken candidly about my desire to have a next chapter, to chase new dreams and start paying it forward with more intention,” said Jones in her note. “It has been an incredible ride, and I’m tremendously grateful for all the adventures and to those with whom I’ve shared this journey. It’s the shoulder-to-the-wheel mindset that will always define us.”
Her time at the cable television company spans 23 years. She first joined HBO in 1999 and has held roles in various capacities over the years, most prominently producing publicity campaigns for HBO original programming as varied as “Westworld,” “Lovecraft Country,” “Perry Mason,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
HBO/HBO Max exec vice president and head of communications Karen Jones is exiting the company after 23 years, she announced in a memo to staffers on Thursday. Jones has been in this role since 2019, helping navigate HBO’s communications through ownership changes, the launch of HBO Max (which became part of her purview in 2020) and the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This won’t come as a surprise to some of you, as I’ve spoken candidly about my desire to have a next chapter, to chase new dreams and start paying it forward with more intention,” Jones said in a note shared with her HBO colleagues. “Slowly, and then all at once, it was exactly the right time.
“It has been an incredible ride, and I’m tremendously grateful for all the adventures and to those with whom I’ve shared this journey. It’s the shoulder-to-the-wheel mindset that will always define us,...
“This won’t come as a surprise to some of you, as I’ve spoken candidly about my desire to have a next chapter, to chase new dreams and start paying it forward with more intention,” Jones said in a note shared with her HBO colleagues. “Slowly, and then all at once, it was exactly the right time.
“It has been an incredible ride, and I’m tremendously grateful for all the adventures and to those with whom I’ve shared this journey. It’s the shoulder-to-the-wheel mindset that will always define us,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Given the success of Straight Outta Compton, it's perhaps no surprise that Universal would keep looking for other musical types whose careers it chronicle. The latest subject? Rapper and entertainment mogul Snoop Dogg.
Allen Hughes, who, with brother Albert, directed films such as Menace II Society and The Book Of Eli, is overseeing the movie, which will have a script by Black Panther's Joe Robert Cole.
Snoop is fully involved in the film, granting access to his music library and producing, though that of course brings up questions as to how honest it can be. And, in the age of Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, whether it'll fall into any of the cliches that comedy parodies.
"I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand...
Allen Hughes, who, with brother Albert, directed films such as Menace II Society and The Book Of Eli, is overseeing the movie, which will have a script by Black Panther's Joe Robert Cole.
Snoop is fully involved in the film, granting access to his music library and producing, though that of course brings up questions as to how honest it can be. And, in the age of Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, whether it'll fall into any of the cliches that comedy parodies.
"I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand...
- 11/10/2022
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
A Snoop Dogg biopic is in the works at Universal Pictures.
The Grammy-nominated rapped and Emmy-winning producer is behind an upcoming movie that will tell his life story. The feature is the first project under Snoop’s new Death Row Pictures production banner. Allen Hughes (who directed films like “Menace II Society” and “The Book of Eli” with his twin brother Albert) is confirmed to be directing the film from a script by Joe Robert Cole (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”). Snoop produces along with helmer Hughes and Sara Ramaker.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray onscreen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Snoop said in a statement. “It was the perfect marriage.
The Grammy-nominated rapped and Emmy-winning producer is behind an upcoming movie that will tell his life story. The feature is the first project under Snoop’s new Death Row Pictures production banner. Allen Hughes (who directed films like “Menace II Society” and “The Book of Eli” with his twin brother Albert) is confirmed to be directing the film from a script by Joe Robert Cole (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”). Snoop produces along with helmer Hughes and Sara Ramaker.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray onscreen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Snoop said in a statement. “It was the perfect marriage.
- 11/9/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
The incredible true story of rap icon Snoop Dogg is headed to the big screen, with serious pedigree attached.
An untitled, definitive biopic about the multi-hyphenate is underway at Universal Pictures. Set to direct is Allen Hughes, who made the classic “Menace II Society,” “The Defiant Ones” and “Dead Presidents.” The project will feature Snoop’s expansive music catalogue and also mark the first production from his content label Death Row Pictures. Joe Robert Cole, co-writer of both “Black Panther” scripts, will handle the screenplay.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Dogg said in a statement. “It was the perfect marriage. It was holy matrimony,...
An untitled, definitive biopic about the multi-hyphenate is underway at Universal Pictures. Set to direct is Allen Hughes, who made the classic “Menace II Society,” “The Defiant Ones” and “Dead Presidents.” The project will feature Snoop’s expansive music catalogue and also mark the first production from his content label Death Row Pictures. Joe Robert Cole, co-writer of both “Black Panther” scripts, will handle the screenplay.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Dogg said in a statement. “It was the perfect marriage. It was holy matrimony,...
- 11/9/2022
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Incorporating music from his vast catalogue, Universal Pictures is developing the definitive biopic of entertainment industry mogul and icon of gangsta rap, “Snoop Dogg,” which will mark the first film from Snoop Dogg’s’s Death Row Pictures, the studio announced Wednesday.
Joe Robert Cole (the “Black Panther” films) will write the screenplay. Allen Hughes (“Menace to Society”) is attached to direct.
Snoop Dogg will produce with Sara Ramaker for their Death Row Pictures, alongside Hughes.
Also Read:
Winston Duke Joins Universal’s ‘The Fall Guy’
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Snoop Dogg said in a statement to TheWrap. “It was the perfect marriage.
Joe Robert Cole (the “Black Panther” films) will write the screenplay. Allen Hughes (“Menace to Society”) is attached to direct.
Snoop Dogg will produce with Sara Ramaker for their Death Row Pictures, alongside Hughes.
Also Read:
Winston Duke Joins Universal’s ‘The Fall Guy’
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Snoop Dogg said in a statement to TheWrap. “It was the perfect marriage.
- 11/9/2022
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Universal has enlisted Black Panther: Wakanda Forever co-writer Joe Robert Cole and director Allen Hughes, who with his brother Albert directed movies such as Menace II Society and Dead Presidents, to tackle a definitive biopic of iconic rapper and entertainment mogul Snoop Dogg.
Snoop is heavily involved with the project announced Wednesday, which will incorporate music from his past catalog. He is also producing the feature along with Sara Ramaker and Hughes. The project will mark the inaugural film from Snoop’s Death Row Pictures, which he runs with Ramaker.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” said Snoop in a statement.
Universal has enlisted Black Panther: Wakanda Forever co-writer Joe Robert Cole and director Allen Hughes, who with his brother Albert directed movies such as Menace II Society and Dead Presidents, to tackle a definitive biopic of iconic rapper and entertainment mogul Snoop Dogg.
Snoop is heavily involved with the project announced Wednesday, which will incorporate music from his past catalog. He is also producing the feature along with Sara Ramaker and Hughes. The project will mark the inaugural film from Snoop’s Death Row Pictures, which he runs with Ramaker.
“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer, and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” said Snoop in a statement.
- 11/9/2022
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Great actors fall into darkness backwards,” Bill Duke likes to say, quoting an early teacher of his who suggested that the leap of faith required for someone to become the person they imagine in their mind requires a sense of self-belief powerful enough to overcome their fear of the unknown. Not only has Duke consistently done that over the course of the actor-director’s 40-plus-year career, he’s done it with an unparalleled degree of excellence and grace.
While cinephiles and casual fans alike may be familiar with Duke’s performances in films like “Predator” and “Menace II Society,” few recognize the full impact of his contributions behind the camera during the ’90s, when he hit his stride with a series of major and enduring work that range from “A Rage in Harlem” and the masterful neo-noir “Deep Cover” to the beloved crowdpleaser “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.
While cinephiles and casual fans alike may be familiar with Duke’s performances in films like “Predator” and “Menace II Society,” few recognize the full impact of his contributions behind the camera during the ’90s, when he hit his stride with a series of major and enduring work that range from “A Rage in Harlem” and the masterful neo-noir “Deep Cover” to the beloved crowdpleaser “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.
- 8/18/2022
- by Robert Daniels
- Indiewire
There are very few pure action movies, a fact one only comes to appreciate once they try to compile a list like this. "The Expendables," "Commando," and the "Fast and the Furious" franchise are examples of such films in which the only objective is to blow things up in creative and satisfying ways. Instead, most action movies fall on a sliding scale and also incorporate thriller, horror, and comedic elements.
The same handful of Black directors pops up on this list again and again, in part because they are excellent directors but also because it's a shallow pool. Black directors just don't get as many opportunities. According to a 2021 report by the consulting company McKinsey & Company, less than 6 percent of the writers, directors, and producers of U.S.-produced films are Black, despite Black Americans constituting 13.4 percent of the United States population (per the same report). This discrepancy may...
The same handful of Black directors pops up on this list again and again, in part because they are excellent directors but also because it's a shallow pool. Black directors just don't get as many opportunities. According to a 2021 report by the consulting company McKinsey & Company, less than 6 percent of the writers, directors, and producers of U.S.-produced films are Black, despite Black Americans constituting 13.4 percent of the United States population (per the same report). This discrepancy may...
- 8/14/2022
- by Eric Pierce
- Slash Film
Jack Kilmer has nabbed a leading role opposite Clifton Powell in B.B. King drama “The Thrill Is On,” Variety has learned exclusively.
Kilmer will play Michael, a young drummer who has a chance encounter with blues legend King (Powell), which proves to be the start of an enduring friendship. The upcoming film is based on the true story of producer Michael Zanetis’ own experience with the prolific musician, who died in 2015.
“As an actor and musician, Jack is uniquely qualified to portray our drummer on a mission. His passion for acting and music will ignite a compelling performance,” Zanetis said in a statement to Variety. “We can’t wait to see what magic this dynamic duo will bring to our film!”
Kilmer first broke out in 2013 with his starring role in Gia Coppola’s “Palo Alto,” and has since appeared in “The Stanford Prison Experiment,” “Lords of Chaos” and “Hala.
Kilmer will play Michael, a young drummer who has a chance encounter with blues legend King (Powell), which proves to be the start of an enduring friendship. The upcoming film is based on the true story of producer Michael Zanetis’ own experience with the prolific musician, who died in 2015.
“As an actor and musician, Jack is uniquely qualified to portray our drummer on a mission. His passion for acting and music will ignite a compelling performance,” Zanetis said in a statement to Variety. “We can’t wait to see what magic this dynamic duo will bring to our film!”
Kilmer first broke out in 2013 with his starring role in Gia Coppola’s “Palo Alto,” and has since appeared in “The Stanford Prison Experiment,” “Lords of Chaos” and “Hala.
- 7/6/2022
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
As the undisputed king of streaming (for now at least), Netflix has enjoyed the presence of some major blockbusters. Now, with its list of new releases for May 2022, Netflix is bringing back one of its biggest ever hits.
Stranger Things season 4 “volume one” is set to premiere on May 27. It’s been a long wait for new episodes of this ’80s-tinged sci-fi/horror series and based on the trailers, the wait will have been well worth it. In this go-around, the kids of Hawkins (now high schoolers) will have to contend with the Upside Down once again to go along with the horrors of the Creel House.
While Stranger Things is the biggest Netflix original this month, it’s far from the only one. Mike Myers’ latest series The Pentaverate premieres on May 5 (fittingly: 5/5). Meanwhile The Lincoln Lawyer is set to arrive on May 13 followed by Love, Death & Robots Volume...
Stranger Things season 4 “volume one” is set to premiere on May 27. It’s been a long wait for new episodes of this ’80s-tinged sci-fi/horror series and based on the trailers, the wait will have been well worth it. In this go-around, the kids of Hawkins (now high schoolers) will have to contend with the Upside Down once again to go along with the horrors of the Creel House.
While Stranger Things is the biggest Netflix original this month, it’s far from the only one. Mike Myers’ latest series The Pentaverate premieres on May 5 (fittingly: 5/5). Meanwhile The Lincoln Lawyer is set to arrive on May 13 followed by Love, Death & Robots Volume...
- 5/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Before she ever became the center of the 2022 Oscars #slapgate, Jada Pinkett Smith‘s career was a long and distinguished one, from a string of memorable performances in both film and television to acclaimed work behind the scenes as a producer on TV and Broadway. After first achieving fame on two seasons of the popular NBC sitcom “A Different World,” Pinkett Smith made an abrupt turn to drama for her feature film debut in The Hughes Brothers‘ 1993 film “Menace II Society.” In our photo gallery above (click here for direct access), we take a closer look at the Top 12 Jada Pinkett Smith movies and TV shows ranked worst to best.
SEEWill Smith has been banned from attending Oscars for the next decade
Though she did not forsake television — in the following years she had memorable roles in the comic-book crime series “Gotham” and the medical drama “Hawthorne” — Pinkett Smith’s...
SEEWill Smith has been banned from attending Oscars for the next decade
Though she did not forsake television — in the following years she had memorable roles in the comic-book crime series “Gotham” and the medical drama “Hawthorne” — Pinkett Smith’s...
- 4/29/2022
- by Tom O'Brien
- Gold Derby
Before she ever became the center of the 2022 Oscars #slapgate, Jada Pinkett Smith’s career was a long and distinguished one, from a string of memorable performances in both film and television to acclaimed work behind the scenes as a producer on TV and Broadway. After first achieving fame on two seasons of the popular NBC sitcom “A Different World,” Pinkett Smith made an abrupt turn to drama for her feature film debut in The Hughes Brothers’ 1993 film “Menace II Society.” In our photo gallery below, we take a closer look at the Top 12 Jada Pinkett Smith movies and TV shows ranked worst to best.
Though she did not forsake television — in the following years she had memorable roles in the comic-book crime series “Gotham” and the medical drama “Hawthorne” — Pinkett Smith’s greatest successes have largely been in films. Displaying an acting ease in genres ranging from romantic comedies to crime thrillers,...
Though she did not forsake television — in the following years she had memorable roles in the comic-book crime series “Gotham” and the medical drama “Hawthorne” — Pinkett Smith’s greatest successes have largely been in films. Displaying an acting ease in genres ranging from romantic comedies to crime thrillers,...
- 4/25/2022
- by Tom O'Brien, Misty Holland and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
This May, Netflix will release the first volume of “Stranger Things” Season 4, one of the streaming platform’s most popular and successful shows. It also plans to release “Love, Death & Robots: Volume 3,” a new comedy called “Senior Year” with Rebel Wilson, and much more.
Here’s the full list of what’s new on Netflix for May 2022.
New on Netflix on May 1
42
3 Ninjas: Kick Back
40-Love
A River Runs Through It
Are You the One?, Season 6
Blippi Wonders, Season 1
Corpse Bride
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Den of Thieves
Dirty Harry
Empire State
Forrest Gump
Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle
Hello, My Name Is Doris
Jackass: The Movie
Jackass 2.5
Jackass 3.5
John Q
Menace II Society
Once Upon a Time in America
Rambo
Rambo: Last Blood
Road to Perdition
Seven Years in Tibet
Soul Surfer
Summerland
The Gentlemen
The Lake House
U.S. Marshals (1998)
War of the Worlds
When Harry Met Sally
You’ve Got Mail...
Here’s the full list of what’s new on Netflix for May 2022.
New on Netflix on May 1
42
3 Ninjas: Kick Back
40-Love
A River Runs Through It
Are You the One?, Season 6
Blippi Wonders, Season 1
Corpse Bride
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Den of Thieves
Dirty Harry
Empire State
Forrest Gump
Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle
Hello, My Name Is Doris
Jackass: The Movie
Jackass 2.5
Jackass 3.5
John Q
Menace II Society
Once Upon a Time in America
Rambo
Rambo: Last Blood
Road to Perdition
Seven Years in Tibet
Soul Surfer
Summerland
The Gentlemen
The Lake House
U.S. Marshals (1998)
War of the Worlds
When Harry Met Sally
You’ve Got Mail...
- 4/21/2022
- by Caillou Pettis
- Gold Derby
On March 8, 1991, Mario Van Peebles’ feature directorial debut “New Jack City” premiered at the Mann Village Theatre in Westwood. On Saturday, a little more than 30 years later, Van Peebles walked the red carpet outside the very same cinema — now renamed the Regency Village Theatre — for a special screening of his classic crime thriller, hosted by the American Cinematheque.
Van Peebles was joined for the special event by “New Jack City” star Vanessa Estelle Williams, plus his children — Mandela and Makaylo, who joined their dad onstage to record his introduction to the movie, as well as Marley and Maya.
As Van Peebles reflected on the full-circle moment, he called out one of the gangster movie’s most famous (and Bible-borrowed) lines, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” and the massive crowd yelled back, “Yes I am.” The call and response is a reference to the iconic scene where (spoiler alert...
Van Peebles was joined for the special event by “New Jack City” star Vanessa Estelle Williams, plus his children — Mandela and Makaylo, who joined their dad onstage to record his introduction to the movie, as well as Marley and Maya.
As Van Peebles reflected on the full-circle moment, he called out one of the gangster movie’s most famous (and Bible-borrowed) lines, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” and the massive crowd yelled back, “Yes I am.” The call and response is a reference to the iconic scene where (spoiler alert...
- 4/14/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office issued its report today on the death of Anthony Johnson. The document indicates that the Friday and House Party actor died from “chronic ethanol use.” In other words, chronic drinking. The report also reveals that Johnson died in the hospital and had no other significant conditions.
Previously on September 20: Anthony Johnson, the actor and comedian who appeared in the movies Friday and House Party, died Sept. 6 at the age of 55.
His death was confirmed to Deadline by his rep LyNea Bell, owner and president of Bh Talent.
“The world of comedy has truly been shaken, again,” said Bell in a statement. “Our Bh Talent family is heartbroken about the loss of the iconic legend of stage and screen Mr. Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson. He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold.
Previously on September 20: Anthony Johnson, the actor and comedian who appeared in the movies Friday and House Party, died Sept. 6 at the age of 55.
His death was confirmed to Deadline by his rep LyNea Bell, owner and president of Bh Talent.
“The world of comedy has truly been shaken, again,” said Bell in a statement. “Our Bh Talent family is heartbroken about the loss of the iconic legend of stage and screen Mr. Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson. He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold.
- 2/9/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Heather Morgan is a lot of things: A 31-year-old economist and self-proclaimed “serial entrepreneur” who’s worked in tech for a decade, a Forbes contributor from 2018 to 2021, a surrealist artist whose beyond-trippy pieces are often inspired by her synesthesia and sometimes include prosthetic eyeballs, and an outlandish rapper who spits about villainous capitalists. She has also been accused by the Department of Justice of participating in criminal activities.
On Tuesday, February 8th, feds arrested Morgan and her husband Ilya “Dutch” Lichtenstein for allegedly conspiring to launder $4.5 billion in stolen Bitcoin.
On Tuesday, February 8th, feds arrested Morgan and her husband Ilya “Dutch” Lichtenstein for allegedly conspiring to launder $4.5 billion in stolen Bitcoin.
- 2/8/2022
- by Samantha Hissong
- Rollingstone.com
If you’re looking for something to watch on HBO Max this month, you may want to prioritize the following titles that are leaving the streaming service throughout February. Below, we’ve assembled a complete list of everything leaving HBO Max in February, which ranges from Oscar-winning blockbusters to stone-cold classics to delightful comedies.
Noteworthy films leaving HBO Max this month include “Dunkirk,” “Blade Runner 2049,” “Amistad,” “Pitch Perfect,” “Independence Day,” “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” “The Goonies,” “Joker” and “The Lego Batman Movie.” It’s also last call for DC films “Wonder Woman,” “Aquaman,” “Birds of Prey” and “Suicide Squad.”
The end of February will also mark the departure of a number of documentary series that aired on CNN, including “The Bush Years,” “The Seventies,” “The Eighties,” ”The Nineties,” ”The Movies” and ”The Story of Late Night.”
Check out the full list of everything leaving HBO Max in February 2022 below.
Noteworthy films leaving HBO Max this month include “Dunkirk,” “Blade Runner 2049,” “Amistad,” “Pitch Perfect,” “Independence Day,” “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” “The Goonies,” “Joker” and “The Lego Batman Movie.” It’s also last call for DC films “Wonder Woman,” “Aquaman,” “Birds of Prey” and “Suicide Squad.”
The end of February will also mark the departure of a number of documentary series that aired on CNN, including “The Bush Years,” “The Seventies,” “The Eighties,” ”The Nineties,” ”The Movies” and ”The Story of Late Night.”
Check out the full list of everything leaving HBO Max in February 2022 below.
- 2/1/2022
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
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“Citizen Kane” is being restored by the Criterion Collection in honor of the film’s 80th anniversary. Regarded as one of the greatest movies of all time, “Citizen Kane” follows the story of a reporter tasked with decoding the meaning of “Rosebud” — the final word uttered by Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles) on his death bed. Kane, a fictitious newspaper mogul, was inspired by real-life tycoons William Randolph Hearst, Joseph Pulitzer, Samuel Insull, and Harold McCormick.
The Criterion edition of Welles’ 1941 feature film directorial debut will be released on November 23, but you can pre-order it now to make sure that you get a copy (in case they sell out during the Black Friday...
“Citizen Kane” is being restored by the Criterion Collection in honor of the film’s 80th anniversary. Regarded as one of the greatest movies of all time, “Citizen Kane” follows the story of a reporter tasked with decoding the meaning of “Rosebud” — the final word uttered by Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles) on his death bed. Kane, a fictitious newspaper mogul, was inspired by real-life tycoons William Randolph Hearst, Joseph Pulitzer, Samuel Insull, and Harold McCormick.
The Criterion edition of Welles’ 1941 feature film directorial debut will be released on November 23, but you can pre-order it now to make sure that you get a copy (in case they sell out during the Black Friday...
- 11/4/2021
- by Latifah Muhammad
- Indiewire
Comedian Anthony “Aj” Johnson was remembered Monday by the writers of his movie “Friday,” Ice Cube and DJ Pooh.
Shortly after news of Johnson’s death broke, Ice Cube called the late actor a “naturally funny dude who was straight outta Compton at the same time.” He added that he wished he could have brought back Johnson’s “Friday” character, Ezal, for the upcoming sequel film “Last Friday.”
Writer DJ Pooh said in a tweet, “Rest easy Aj,” while also sharing a Gif of Johnson running down the street with stolen merch in his arms, as seen in “Friday.”
Other stars also paid their respects to the late comedian, who, according to his reps, died earlier this month. No cause of death was revealed.
In addition to appearing in “Friday” in 1995, Johnson got his big break with the role of E.Z.E. in 1990’s “House Party.” His other notable...
Shortly after news of Johnson’s death broke, Ice Cube called the late actor a “naturally funny dude who was straight outta Compton at the same time.” He added that he wished he could have brought back Johnson’s “Friday” character, Ezal, for the upcoming sequel film “Last Friday.”
Writer DJ Pooh said in a tweet, “Rest easy Aj,” while also sharing a Gif of Johnson running down the street with stolen merch in his arms, as seen in “Friday.”
Other stars also paid their respects to the late comedian, who, according to his reps, died earlier this month. No cause of death was revealed.
In addition to appearing in “Friday” in 1995, Johnson got his big break with the role of E.Z.E. in 1990’s “House Party.” His other notable...
- 9/20/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Anthony “A.J.” Johnson, a comedian and actor who appeared in films such as “Friday” and “House Party,” has died, his representative confirmed to Variety. He was 55.
“The world of comedy has truly been shaken, again. Our Bh Talent family is heartbroken about the loss of the iconic legend of stage and screen Mr. Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” said representative LyNea Bell in a statement to Variety. “He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold. We will be in constant prayer for his entire family including his wife Lexis, three children, brother Edward ‘Peanut’ Smith, sister Sheila, and lifetime manager and friend Mike D. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
No cause of death or other information regarding his death has been announced.
Johnson’s career kicked off in the ’90s,...
“The world of comedy has truly been shaken, again. Our Bh Talent family is heartbroken about the loss of the iconic legend of stage and screen Mr. Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” said representative LyNea Bell in a statement to Variety. “He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold. We will be in constant prayer for his entire family including his wife Lexis, three children, brother Edward ‘Peanut’ Smith, sister Sheila, and lifetime manager and friend Mike D. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
No cause of death or other information regarding his death has been announced.
Johnson’s career kicked off in the ’90s,...
- 9/20/2021
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Anthony “Aj” Johnson, a comedian and actor best known for his parts in “Friday” and “House Party,” has died, representatives for Johnson confirmed to TheWrap Monday. He was 55.
According to Johnson’s reps, the actor — who played addict and thief Ezal in “Friday” and E.Z.E. in “House Party” — died earlier this month. His cause of death has not yet been released.
“Our Bh Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” Johnson’s spokespeople said in a statement to TheWrap. “We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
Per TMZ, Johnson’s nephew said the actor “was...
According to Johnson’s reps, the actor — who played addict and thief Ezal in “Friday” and E.Z.E. in “House Party” — died earlier this month. His cause of death has not yet been released.
“Our Bh Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” Johnson’s spokespeople said in a statement to TheWrap. “We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
Per TMZ, Johnson’s nephew said the actor “was...
- 9/20/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Anthony Johnson, the comedian and actor who played the memorable Ezal in Friday, has died, his rep LyNea Bell confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 55.
No additional information about his passing was disclosed.
“We lost an icon. He will be greatly missed,” Bell told THR.
Sometimes credited as “A.J. Johnson,” the actor appeared in several television shows and films, including House Party, Menace II Society and Lethal Weapon 3. He also appeared in the I Got the Hook-Up film series. The comic-actor had credits for such TV shows as Martin and Malcolm & Eddie.
A Compton, California native, the stand-up comic got ...
No additional information about his passing was disclosed.
“We lost an icon. He will be greatly missed,” Bell told THR.
Sometimes credited as “A.J. Johnson,” the actor appeared in several television shows and films, including House Party, Menace II Society and Lethal Weapon 3. He also appeared in the I Got the Hook-Up film series. The comic-actor had credits for such TV shows as Martin and Malcolm & Eddie.
A Compton, California native, the stand-up comic got ...
- 9/20/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Last week, it was revealed that The Criterion Collection would add a new disc format to its release schedule, announcing its first batch of 4K Uhd titles. And in November, the first wave of those titles, as well as a highly-anticipated box set, aim to lighten your wallets.
Read More: Criterion Announces First Slate Of 4K Uhd Releases Featuring ‘Citizen Kane,’ ‘Mulholland Drive,’ ‘Menace II Society’ & More
As for the big 4K Uhd releases in November, those are led by “Citizen Kane,” which is arriving on the new format, marking the first official Criterion Uhd release.
Continue reading Criterion Releasing First Batch Of 4K Discs & ‘Once Upon A Time In China’ Box Set In November at The Playlist.
Read More: Criterion Announces First Slate Of 4K Uhd Releases Featuring ‘Citizen Kane,’ ‘Mulholland Drive,’ ‘Menace II Society’ & More
As for the big 4K Uhd releases in November, those are led by “Citizen Kane,” which is arriving on the new format, marking the first official Criterion Uhd release.
Continue reading Criterion Releasing First Batch Of 4K Discs & ‘Once Upon A Time In China’ Box Set In November at The Playlist.
- 8/17/2021
- by Charles Barfield
- The Playlist
Almost 40 years ago, “Citizen Kane” became the first Criterion Collection release on LaserDisc. (I assume the furious clicking sound I now hear is from many millennials and Zoomers googling what the hell LaserDisc was.) And as Criterion moves into the realm of the latest and greatest physical media, 4K Uhd, “Citizen Kane” is making its triumphant return.
Read More: Criterion To Release ‘Melvin Van Peebles: Four Films’ Blu-Ray Collection This September
Today, Criterion announced its first slate of 4K Uhd releases that will begin in November and continue to grow in the months following.
Continue reading Criterion Announces First Slate Of 4K Uhd Releases Featuring ‘Citizen Kane,’ ‘Mulholland Drive,’ ‘Menace II Society’ & More at The Playlist.
Read More: Criterion To Release ‘Melvin Van Peebles: Four Films’ Blu-Ray Collection This September
Today, Criterion announced its first slate of 4K Uhd releases that will begin in November and continue to grow in the months following.
Continue reading Criterion Announces First Slate Of 4K Uhd Releases Featuring ‘Citizen Kane,’ ‘Mulholland Drive,’ ‘Menace II Society’ & More at The Playlist.
- 8/11/2021
- by Charles Barfield
- The Playlist
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