On this weeks episode of Rewind with Ro, Ro Carter and Rob Smith discuss BET+ series Diarra from Detroit starring Diarra Kilpatrick, Morris Chestnut and Phylicia Rashad. The series is executive produced by Kenya Barris and Diarra Kilpatrick.
The story follows Diarra Brickland (Kilpatrick), a schoolteacher going through a divorce refusing to believe she’s been rejected by her Tinder date.
RELATED: Rewind with Ro – Season 3, Episode 8 – Boscoe & Welcome Home, Franklin
Cheers to the weekend! Here are some don’t miss thrillers you can watch on Tubi with your family and friends starring your favorites such as Darius McCrary and more.
Watch DOLL HOUSE!
Synopsis | A group of college friends, AMAYA FORD, CHARLOTTE KINCAID, GREGORY
CRAIN, MICHAEL MOORE, and KENYA STOKES, decides to leave campus for a
weekend getaway. When Kenya has an opportunity to make some extra money by house sitting at a lavish estate, she jumps at the offer and knows it will be the perfect free getaway for her and her friends, only to find themselves fighting to survive being trapped in a dollhouse.
Starring | Darius McCrary, Taina Dominguez, Renee Bhagwandeen, Nadia Adelay, George King
Watch LEFT ON RED!
Synopsis | With a string of failed relationships behind her, Taylor tries to find love in a new city while struggling to outrun the demons of her past.
Starring | Amber Monique Taylor, Barry Brewer, Christal Luster, Joavon Myers
Watch DEAD HOT!
Synopsis | The Liverpool-set series tells the story of two twentysomethings Elliot and Jess, best friends united by a bond of grief at losing Peter—the first and only love of Elliot and Jess’ twin brother, who went missing in mysterious circumstances five years previously.
Starring | Bilal Hasna, Vivian Oparah, Peter Serafinowicz, Penelope Wilton
About TUBI
Tubi is the most watched free TV and movie streaming service in the U.S., dedicated to providing all people access to all the world’s stories. As a leading ad-supported video-on-demand service, the company engages diverse audiences through a personalized experience and the world’s largest content library of over 200,000 movies and TV episodes, a growing collection of Tubi Originals, and nearly 250 FAST channels. Tubi is part of the Tubi Media Group, a division of Fox Corporation that oversees the company’s digital businesses.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/botch-cast-interview-tubi/
The entertainment world mourns the loss of Louis Gossett Jr., an iconic figure whose career spanned over five decades, passed away at the age of 87. Gossett, known for breaking barriers and setting benchmarks for future generations, leaves behind a legacy enriched with diverse, groundbreaking roles and a profound commitment to philanthropy.
Gossett’s early life in Brooklyn laid the foundation for a luminous career. A high school injury led him to the stage instead of the sports field, marking the beginning of his journey in acting. His Broadway debut in “Take a Giant Step” received critical acclaim, signaling the emergence of a star. Despite an opportunity to play professional basketball, Gossett chose to focus on acting, demonstrating his passion and dedication to the craft that would eventually lead him to Hollywood success.
Gossett’s filmography is studded with significant roles that have left an indelible mark on the industry:
– “An Officer and a Gentleman”: Winning him an Academy Award, Gossett’s role as Sergeant Emil Foley made him the first African-American to win the Best Supporting Actor Oscar, showcasing a blend of toughness and sensitivity.
– “Roots”: His portrayal of Fiddler in this landmark miniseries brought to life the African-American experience, earning him an Emmy.
– “A Raisin in the Sun” & “The Josephine Baker Story”: These roles further cemented Gossett’s status as a formidable actor, with the latter earning him a Golden Globe.
– “Good Times”: His guest appearance in the series offered poignant commentary on race and society.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Gossett’s dedication to social change was evident through his Eracism Foundation, which focuses on eradicating racism and promoting inclusion and diversity. His efforts to educate and inspire underscore his belief in the power of art to foster a more equitable society.
Married three times, his familial bonds included two sons, one of whom was adopted, showcasing his belief in the power of love beyond biological ties. His first marriage to Hattie Glascoe was annulled, but it was his marriage to Christina Mangosing in 1973 that blessed him with his son Satie, before the couple divorced in 1975. His final marriage to Cyndi James-Reese in 1987 also ended in divorce in 1992, but not before they adopted their son, Sharron.
Louis Gossett Jr.’s life and career exemplify a commitment to excellence, diversity, and activism. His roles, both on and off-screen, have inspired countless individuals and made a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and the world at large. As we remember Gossett, we celebrate a man whose talent and dedication to justice have left an enduring legacy of inspiration.
RELATED: Louis Gossett, Jr. & Lena Waithe To Be Honored At The 2020 American Black Film Festival Honors
blackfilm.com correspondent Koku Tona interviewed comedian and actress Marsha Warfield to discuss her appearance in the Season 2 finale of the NIGHT COURT reboot on NBC 3/26. Check out the interview and let us know what you think!
Roz finds herself in court after her wedding venue falls through, prompting Abby to offer up the courthouse for the big day in the season two finale episode airing Tuesday, March 26 (8:00 p.m. ET/PT). It’s all hands on deck to keep the special day in order!
Dan strikes up a connection with a wedding guest who has ties to his past, only to realize that his reputation precedes him. Abby and Jake, cautious that the wedding may kick things into high gear, set rules to keep their relationship casual. Gurgs suspects foul play with the wedding arrangements and enlists Olivia, Wyatt and Flobert to help investigate.
About “Night Court”
Court is back in session! When the perpetually sunny judge Abby Stone (Melissa Rauch) takes the night shift in her father’s old courtroom, she presides over some of New York’s most unique and unusual cases – with an oddball cast of characters by her side. This includes former night court District Attorney Dan FieIding (John Larroquette), who now serves as the court’s public defender. They both must content with Olivia (India de Beaufort), the court’s officious district attorney. Donna “Gurgs” Gurgaros (Lacretta) is the night court’s sharp-witted bailiff, while Wyatt, the court clerk, is a single dad and jack of all trades.
From executive producer and writer Dan Rubin, “Night Court” is based on the original hit series that ran for nine seasons on NBC. Melissa Rauch and Winston Rauch executive produce through their After January Productions. Mona Garcea oversees for After January Productions and John Larroquette also serves as an executive producer.
“Night Court” is produced by Rauch’s After January Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/ava-duvernay-gets-put-pilot-for-sovereign-at-nbc/
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As a regular contributing writer for blackfilm.com, I was invited to attend the 96th Annual Academy Awards! My Oscars® weekend started out with an invite to attend the rehearsals on Saturday at 8:30am, the day before the big day.
A group of about 20 press, including me, were ushered through air tight security and into the Dolby at Ovation Hollywood by representatives of the PR firm Sunshine Sachs Morgan and Lylis. Credentials were passed out and then we were led in and seated in the front of the balcony looking down at the orchestra section. The seats are lined with cardboard pictures of Hollywoods top actors and actresses. The theater is quiet and also really cold by the way. None of us know what to expect.
The stage is set. An enormous gold image of the Oscar is center stage and the stage is flanked by a huge floor to ceiling display a pink roses. The floor is polished to a high shine. Out onto the shiny floor walks a fab five of veteran Hollywood excellence, Lupita Nyongo’O, Regina King, Jamie Lee Curtis, Rita Moreno and Mary Steenburgen. The powerhouse quintet is dressed casually, smiling and chatting with each other like longtime friends as they stride on stage to rehearse their presentation segment. Five of my favorite people are standing in front of me. I’ve always loved Jamie Lee Curtis for loving herself and showing me how to embrace my 50s. I’ve been a fan of Regina’s since 227 and 1991’s Boyz in the Hood. I even got light brown contact lenses inspired by her. Lupita stole my heart with her powerful acceptance speech at the 2014 Academy Award for her Supporting Role in 12 Years a Slave and continues to steel my heart with her crazy Instagram shenanigans. Rita Moreno has been an idol since West Side Story. At 92, I only wish to be as incredibly full of life and energy as she is. And Steenburgen showed me that you can be sexy at any age with the outfits she wore as a lounge singer in Last Vegas.
RELATED: Oscars® 2024: The Full List of Winners
Steven Spielberg is next on stage looking very Spielberg-esque in sneakers, his signature jeans, denim shirt and black denim jacket. And then there’s Zendaya who is brought onto a stage that is now cast in purple hues and placed on her mark wearing jeans, black sneakers and a long elegant black coat to rehearse her presentation speech. A stand-in comes onto stage to accept the Oscar from Zendaya. I don’t know if the stand-in’s they hired were comedian’s but they were all hilarious making up acceptance speeches for fictitious films, thanking fictitious people. Zendaya found it funny too. She has a cute laugh.
America Ferrara and Kate McKinnon in jackets, jeans and casual high heels, fluff their way through their presentation speech messing up a lot, giggling a lot and letting a few curse words slip.
We watch a few more actors and actresses bumble their way through their presenting speeches.
Michael Keaton and Catherin O’Hara are then walked onto a stage bathed in pink hues by a stage director and shown their marks and then quickly ushered away.
We are next being asked to file out of the auditorium. They don’t want us to see whoever or what ever it is that is scheduled to rehearse next. My curiosity is piqued but the reps are not letting us stay in the room. Oh well.
I get my hair and make up done and climb into my black crepe gown from Athropologie’s sale room and hitch a ride over to the Dolby with my make up artist Valezra Earl. On the way into the theater Rob Smith, Managing Director of blackfilm.com, and I see Steven Spielberg, now looking polished in a tuxedo with his wife Kate Capshaw in a gorgeous blue ball gown and we see Colman Domingo, tall and handsome in a double breasted suit, and a parade of other stars dressed to the nines in black tie.
We get out programs and hit the bar before taking our seats. I love the Oscars® because everyone attending is so happy and smiling. Giddy about being dressed up and just grateful to be there. We were all chatty, complimenting each other’s outfits, introducing ourselves, curious about how we are all connected to the world of filmmaking. We met people from Los Angeles, people from New York and everywhere else. Some work for advertising companies, some produce documentaries, some were producers of animated shorts and the couple sitting next to me said they were in the midst of shooting a documentary about Harlem that they hope will be nominated next year. Other journalists were in the house, some we already knew and some we got to know. Shout out to Delaina Dixon representing Ebony magazine and Kelley Carter, ESPN Entertainment Reporter.
We listened to David Alan Grier joke before the show went live. He teased the nominees in the audience about not thanking a crazy- long list of people like their broker, their lawyer, their tax preparer, their agents and their publicists. Leading most of the acceptance speeches to make reference to Grier noting that they had to shout out their agents and publicists anyway because of all of their handwork. Notably Da’Vine Joy Randolph who really gushed on and on about her publicist but neglected to tell us her name. Later we found out she was referring to Marla Farrell of Shelter PR.
We are seated near filmmakers who were players in some of the night’s biggest wins. Areas of our section came alive each time an award winner was announced. The ladies in front of us screamed so loud when American Fiction won Best Adapted Screenplay, that it scared me. The wife of the winner of award for Best Cinematography shouted to her husband on stage as she recorded his acceptance speech. And we all screamed so loud with Da’Vine Joy won, that the theater shook.
We slipped out to the lobby during the commercial break before the Best Supporting Actor winner was announced to sip on some Don Julio margarita’s in mini bottles with little metal straws and nibble on some snacks.
I loved the show’s Fab 5 concept. I was excited to see 5 stunning Hollywood Supporting Actress-winners stride out on stage now all decked out in gowns to honor their follow Supporting Actress nominees. Lupita’s heartfelt words about her friend Da’Vine Joy Randolph were moving as were Jamie Lee Curtis’ kind words about her friend Jodie Foster, one of my favorite actors. Da’Vine Joy took home the award.
I also loved that the show repeated the idea with another group of fab five actors who came out to speak on the accomplishments of the five nominees for Best Actor. With Oscar-winner Forest Whitaker introducing Colman Domingo; last year’s winner Brendan Fraser introducing Jeffrey Wright; Nicholas Cage, who won for Leaving Las Vegas introducing Paul Giamatti; Dallas Buyer’s Club winner Matthew McConaughey introducing Bradley Cooper and Gandhi-winner Ben Kingsley speaking on Cillian Murphy, who took home the top prize.
And the concept hit it big again with last year’s winner Michelle Yeoh, 1980 Oscar-winner Sally Field, Jennifer Lawrence who won for Silver Linings Playbook (one of my favorite films), Charlize Theron (who introduced Annette Benign another one of my favorite actors) and last but not least Jessica Lange, who introduced Carey Mulligan. Emma Stone won the category.
Congratulations to Da’Vine Joy Randolph for her win and all of the other nominated actors of color Danielle Brooks, America Ferrara, Lilly Gladsone, Jeffrey Wright, Colman Domingo, and Sterling K. Brown.
The upcoming episode of TV One’s “UNCENSORED” will be featuring GINUWINE. “UNCENSORED” airs Sunday’s at 10/9C on TV One.
About UNCENSORED: GINUWINE
Ginuwine is uncensored as he details creating his platinum selling albums, working through grief at the height of his career, and going viral in the age of social media. He is known for his hit records like “Differences,” “In Those Jeans,” and “Pony.”
UNCENSORED explores the lives of some of today’s most notable personalities as they provide first-hand accounts of their success and the obstacles they faced throughout their careers. The season debut episode highlights veteran actress, producer, director, and television host, Vivica A. Fox. With an extensive body of work that encompasses television, stage, and film credits, Fox is also an actress, philanthropist and businesswoman. Upcoming new episodes of UNSUNG include: “UNCENSORED” is produced for TV One by Eric Tomosunas, Keith Neal, James Seppelfrick, Jay Allen, and Nikki Byles (Executive Producers), and Rachel Valley (Producer) of Swirl Films. For TV One, Austyn Biggers is the SVP of Programming and Jason Ryan is the Executive Producer in Charge of Production.
ABOUT TV ONE NETWORKS
TV One Networks is the hub of black culture and entertainment with a broad offering of original programming and classic series, serving both diverse audiences for TV One and CLEO TV. Launched in January 2004, TV One currently serves 47 million households and CLEO TV, launched in January 2019, is the sister network with a 42 million household reach. Each network has a unique audience that serves viewers with fan favorites from TV One such as Unsung, Uncensored, Fatal Attraction, Payback, Tough Love: Atlanta, Never Would Have Made It: The Marvin Sapp Story and Urban One Honors. While, CLEO TV, a lifestyle and entertainment network targeting Millennial and Gen X women of color, delivers content that uplifts and inspires today’s modern-day woman. Viewers of CLEO TV can expect award-winning content in both original and acquired series including Boss Girl’s Guide, Culture Kitchen, New Soul Kitchen, Just Eats with Chef JJ, Global Gourmet, Living By Design, Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix and All Things Adrienne House to Home. Both networks are solely owned by Urban One, Inc., formerly known as Radio One, Inc. [NASDAQ: UONE and UONEK, www.urban1.com], the largest African-American owned and operated multi-media company.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/tv-ones-hot-new-summer-films-complete-list/
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Black Women Film Network (BWFN), the longest-running organization of its kind championing and supporting Black women in film and television, proudly announces its 2024 class of honorees to be celebrated during the awards luncheon at its ninth annual BWFN Summit – powered by Cvent – on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at the Loudermilk Conference Center (40 Courtland St NE) in Atlanta, GA.
This year’s honorees are:
“We are delighted to once again present our annual BWFN Summit, thanks in part to generous support from NBCU Launch, Amazon, Aspire TV+, and Cvent,” said BWFN Board Chairwoman, Chiquita Lockley. “From the picket lines to major press moments, we’ve heard strong voices like Gina Prince-Bythewood, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, and Issa Rae consistently address the need for equity for Black women across the spectrum of the entertainment industry. This year’s theme “Standing on Business: How Creatives Get the Bag” reflects this push for equity which is our purpose and our why.”
Now in its 27th year, Black Women Film Network inspires and empowers Black women daily through programming as well as a strong social media presence on Facebook at Black Women Film Network and @BlackWomenFilm on Instagram. “The annual BWFN Summit builds on this work in grand fashion, offering ample opportunities for genuine networking, knowledge building through a dynamic lineup of workshops and panel sessions spotlighting writing, acting, hair, costume design, makeup from industry leaders, as well as access to employment resources like Rob and Shaun Hardy’s Amazing Stories Foundation PA program helmed by Nina Packer. With support from Fulton Films, our Summit focuses on leveling the playing field for entry and advancement within the industry for Black women,” said Lockley.
During the 2024 BWFN Summit Awards Luncheon, where the BWFN Class of 2024 will be celebrated, BWFN will pay it forward to generation next and announce the 2024 BWFN Scholarship recipients who will receive as much as $1000 in funding to support and encourage their film and TV careers. As an added bonus, the annual BWFN Short Film Festival is once again presented in conjunction with the BWFN Summit.
“This year we have realigned our BWFN Short Film Festival with the BWFN Summit for the first time since the pandemic. The BWFN Short Film Festival has emerged as a reputable and trusted source to amplify the talents of emerging Black women filmmakers as well as such established auteurs as Amy Aniobi, Felicia Pride, and Maya Table,” Lockley continued.
“As Black women continue to make strides in the industry, BWFN will remain at the forefront through the BWFN Summit, the BWFN Short Film Festival, custom programming in-person and socially like the BWFN Mixer and BWFN Reel Rundown on Instagram. We are an important part of this industry and our presence is only growing,” added Lockley.
To join the celebration of these extraordinary women’s achievements and the ongoing legacy of the Black Women Film Network, visit blackwomenfilm.org to register for the 2024 BWFN Summit. Find additional updates on Instagram (@blackwomenfilm) or Facebook (BlackWomenFilmNetwork).
About Black Women Film Network:
Established in 1997, the Black Women Film Network (BWFN) was founded to prepare black women to enter the film and television industries. The organization seeks to preserve the voice of these women through film and educational programs that empower and inform. A 501(c)3 non-profit, BWFN provides student scholarships, hosts screenings and workshops, and honors individuals who have excelled in this difficult industry. Visit BWFN online at blackwomenfilm.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/exclusive-talent-extraordinaire-lena-waithe-talks-the-chi-boomerang-and-new-series-twenties/
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The Book of Clarence follows Clarence, a down-on-his-luck man struggling to find a better life for his family while fighting to free himself of debt. He becomes captivated by the power of the rising Messiah and soon risks everything to carve a path to a divine existence. Released in theaters on January 12, the film stars Alfre Woodard, David Oyelowo, James McAvoy, Benedict Cumberbatch and more. Tristar Pictures’ Hollywood Biblical epic film The Book of Clarence is available to rent or buy now! Check out a few clips from the movie, and let us know what you think!
THE BOOK OF CLARENCE | Alfre Woodard as Mary
THE BOOK OF CLARENCE | David Oyelowo as John the Baptist
THE BOOK OF CLARENCE | Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Amina
ABOUT THE BOOK OF CLARENCE
Streetwise but struggling, Clarence (LaKeith Stanfield) is trying to find a better life for himself and his family, make himself worthy to the woman he loves, and prove that he’s not a nobody. Captivated by the power and glory of the rising Messiah and His apostles, he risks everything to carve his own path to a divine life, a journey through which he finds redemption and faith, power and knowledge.
The Book of Clarence is in movie theaters nationwide now! The film also stars Omar Sy. Anna Diop. RJ Cyler. David Oyelowo. Micheal Ward. Alfre Woodard. Teyana Taylor, Caleb McLaughlin, Eric Kofi-Abrefa, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, James McAvoy and Benedict Cumberbatch. The Hollywood era Biblical epic was produced by Jeymes Samuel, Shawn Carter, James Lassiter, Tendo Nagenda, and executive produced by Garrett Grant.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/sonys-tristar-wins-rights-for-whitney-houston-biopic/
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The Oscars® were held tonight night at the Dolby Theater in the heart of Hollywood. The evening of glitz and glam did not disappoint as stars flooded the red carpet adorned by gold tented drapes and towering golden statues.
The celebration was filled with memorable moments; from naked John Cena presenting the award for Achievement in Costume Design to an impromptu message from Jimmy Kimmel to the former president. “Isn’t it past your jail time?” Kimmel said in response to the former presidents social media post expressing disappointment in his performance.
A new approach was taking this year to presenting the acting categories. Five past winners took the stage to introduce nominees with heartfelt words ahead of the winning announcement.
Oppenheimer won big taking home 7 awards including Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Director (Christopher Nolan), Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Cillian Murphy) and Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Robert Downey, Jr.).
Poor Things won in 4 categories including Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (Emma Stone) and Best Costume Design (Holly Waddington).
Other notable wins include Da’Vine Joy Randolph‘s win for Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for The Holdovers, Cord Jefferson‘s Best Adapted Screenplay win for American Fiction and Best Documentary Short Film winner The Last Repair Shop.
RELATED: Class Photo Taken at this Years Oscars® Nominees Luncheon
American Fiction
Anatomy of a Fall
Barbie
The Holdovers
Killers of the Flower Moon
Maestro
Oppenheimer – WINNER
Past Lives
Poor Things
The Zone of Interest
Jonathan Glazer – The Zone of Interest
Yorgos Lanthimos – Poor Things
Christopher Nolan – Oppenheimer – WINNER
Martin Scorsese – Killers of the Flower Moon
Justine Triet – Anatomy of a Fall
Bradley Cooper – Maestro
Coleman Domingo – Rustin
Paul Giamatti – The Holdovers
Cillian Murphy – Oppenheimer – WINNER
Jeffrey Wright – American Fiction
Annette Bening – Nyad
Lily Gladstone – Killers of the Flower Moon
Sandra Hüller – Anatomy of a Fall
Carey Mulligan – Maestro
Emma Stone – Poor Thing – WINNER
Sterling K. Brown – American Fiction
Robert De Niro – Killers of the Flower Moon
Robert Downey Jr. – Oppenheimer – WINNER
Ryan Gosling – Barbie
Mark Ruffalo – Poor Things
Emily Blunt – Oppenheimer
Danielle Brooks – The Color Purple
America Ferrera – Barbie
Jodie Foster – Nyad
Da’Vine Joy Randolph – The Holdovers – WINNER
Anatomy of a Fall – WINNER
The Holdovers
May December
Maestro
Past Lives
American Fiction – Written for the Screen by Cord Jefferson – WINNER
Barbie – Written by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach
Oppenheimer – Written for the Screen by Christopher Nolan
Poor Things – Screenplay by Tony McNamara
The Zone of Interest – Written by Jonathan Glazer
The Boy and the Heron – WINNER
Elemental
Nimona
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Robot Dreams
Barbie
Killers of the Flower Moon
Napoleon
Oppenheimer
Poor Things – WINNER
Barbie
Killers of the Flower Moon
Napoleon
Oppenheimer
Poor Things – WINNER
El Conde
Killers of the Flower Moon
Maestro
Oppenheimer – WINNER
Poor Things
Anatomy of a Fall – Laurent Sénéchal
The Holdovers – Kevin Tent
Killers of the Flower Moon – Thelma Schoonmaker
Oppenheimer – Jennifer Lame – WINNER
Poor Things – Yorgos Marvropsaridis
Golda – Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby and Ashra Kelly-Blue
Maestro – Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou and Lori McCoy-Bell
Oppenheimer – Luisa Abel
Poor Things – Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier and Josh Weston – WINNER
Society of the Snow – Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martí and Montse Ribé
The Creator
Maestro
Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One
Oppenheimer
The Zone of Interest – WINNER
The Creator
Godzilla Minus One – WINNER
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One
Napoleon
American Fiction – Laura Karpman
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny – John Williams
Killers of the Flower Moon – Robbie Robertson
Oppenheimer – Ludwig Göransson – WINNER
Poor Things – Jerskin Fendrix
“The Fire Inside” from Flamin’ Hot – Music and Lyrics by Diane Warren
“I’m Just Ken” from Barbie – Music and Lyrics by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
“It Never Went Away” from American Symphony – Music and Lyrics by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
“Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)” from Killers of the Flower Moon – Music and Lyrics by Scott George
“What Was I Made For?” from Barbie – Music and Lyrics by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell – WINNER
Bobi Wine: The People’s President
The Eternal Memory
Four Daughters
To Kill a Tiger
20 Days in Mariupol – WINNER
The Teachers’ Lounge – Germany
Io Capitano – Italy
Perfect Days – Japan
Society of the Snow – Spain
The Zone of Interest – United Kingdom – WINNER
Letter to a Pig – Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
Ninety-Five Senses – Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
Our Uniform – Yegane Moghaddam
Pachyderme – Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko – Dave Mullins and Brad Booker – WINNER
The ABCs of Book Banning – Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
The Barber of Little Rock – John Hoffman and Christine Turner
Island in Between – S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
The Last Repair Shop – Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers – WINNER
Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó – Sean Wang and Sam Davis
The After – Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
Invincible – Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
Knight of Fortune – Lasse Lyskjaer and Christian Norlyk
Red, White and Blue – Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar – Wes Anderson and Steven Rales – WINNER
Essence magazine honored four stellar women in Hollywood yesterday at its star-studded 17th annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood® Awards at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. The Oscar-week event was hosted by actor and hip hop heart throb Cliff “Method Man” Smith and celebrated Grammy award winner and Academy Award-nominated actress Danielle Brooks; six-time Grammy-nominated singer and The Little Mermaid actress Halle Bailey; acclaimed screenwriter and showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll and Hollywood power mogul Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming for STARZ.
Zendaya, straight off her Dune 2 promo tour, slaying the Essence red carpet with a new bob haircut and accompanied by fashion legend Law Roach.
American Fiction star, Erika Alexander joined fellow actress, Kim Cole and renowned TV writer and producer, Yvette Lee Bowser, on the carpet for a nostalgic Living Single reunion moment. The show recently celebrated 30 years.
Black Love was also on full display on the red carpet with couples such as actor and rapper Joey Bada$$ and singer/actress Serayah arriving hand and hand. Also BET’s Sistas and Zatima actor, Devale Ellis and wife Khadeen Elli couldn’t keep their hands off each other on the carpet. Also hitting the Essence red carpet were actresses and twin sisters Tia Mowry and Tamera Mowry-Housley. I feel like I haven’t seen these two together in decades.
2024 honoree Halle Bailey shared a touching moment on stage with her sister, multi-hyphenate entertainer Chloe Bailey, as she described her greatest achievement, becoming a mother to her son Halo.
RELATED: Essence Reveals The Black Women In Hollywood Issue Digital Covers
Honoree Danielle Brooks received a standing ovation for her acceptance speech where she unexpectedly belted out the gospel song “I won’t complain.”
Grammy-winning artist Muni Long brought everyone to their feet closing the show with her hit song “Made for Me.”
The event drew an impressive crowd of notable celebrities, from esteemed actors and directors to music moguls and fashion icons, including: Mogul mom Tina Knowles; veteran actors Wendell Pierce, Hill Harper and Anthony Anderson; Love & Basketball’s Boris Kodjoe, singer/songwriter/dancer Normani; comedian and actress Leslie Jones; actresses Teyonah Parris, Letitia Wright, Marsai Martin, and Skai Jackson and Gabourey Sidibe; BMF star Da’Vinchi; DC Comics’ superhero Hawkman, Aldis Hodge; hip hop stars Doug E. Fresh and MC Lyte, filmmakers Gina Prince-Bythewood and Lena Waithe, television producer Mona Scott-Young, and many more.
Catch all of these festivities and red carpet moments from the 17th Annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood® Awards Ceremony on OWN, Friday, March 15th, at 9/8c and also stream the show on Max.
The unbelievable true stories of women who were completely unaware they were pregnant…until they are just about to give birth! A phenomenon known as cryptic pregnancies, one in 2,500 women experience pregnancies that go unnoticed until delivery. With personal videos, photos, and gripping first-hand accounts, these unsuspecting moms-to-be share their unexpected journey to motherhood that leave everyone wondering just how in the world they could have missed the signs a baby was coming!
Back to back episodes air Thursdays at 10 pm/9 pm CT on Lifetime
As Lifetime approaches its 40th Anniversary in 2024, the network continues to expand its unscripted offerings featuring over 60 hours of non-fiction programming in just the first quarter. With a long history of creating pop culture mainstays such as Dance Moms and Married at First Sight, and conversation-inducing documentaries such as Surviving R. Kelly, Lifetime 2024 slate is further bolstered by new series Prison Brides , following women who find love in locked up places and I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby!, which recounts the unbelievable stories of women who only discovered they were pregnant as they are about to give birth.
I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby! – Premiere Episode Sneak Peek (Lifetime, February 2024)
These new shows join the schedule which features season 17 of Married at First Sight and Married at First Sight: Afterparty hosted by Keshia Knight Pulliam, alongside previously announced, The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard featuring unprecedented access to Blanchard as she tells her story, her way. Kicking off a new night of unscripted programming on the network is previously announced new series, Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits, which follows the renowned and beloved Long Island medium as she embarks on the next phase of her life as a new grandmother and divorcee as she continues to bring her gift of speaking to the departed. Additionally, the network recently announced the highly anticipated special, Dance Moms: The Reunion, debuting later this spring on Lifetime.
“While Lifetime Original Movies hold an undeniable space in pop-culture, we need to celebrate that Lifetime has been a driving force in the unscripted arena too,” said Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and Head of Programming, A&E, Lifetime and LMN. “We start off 2024 with a bang with exclusive access to Gypsy on the heels of her release from prison for her involvement in her mother’s death. Then with Married at First Sight as a preeminent relationship show now in its 17th season, Prison Brides is an exciting new companion that further dives into falling in love in an unconventional way. And with Theresa Caputo, we believe her talent of connecting to people will also connect with our audience and I am excited her show will be the anchor for Thursdays to launch another incredibly unbelievable shocking and compelling series, I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby!”
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/seven-deadly-sins-t-d-jakes-anthology-films-wrath-greed-receive-trailer-release-date/
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On this weeks episode of Rewind with Ro, Ro Carter and Rob Smith discuss Peacock film Boscoe starring Vivica A. Fox, Tyrese Gibson and Aubrey Joseph. They also review Apple TV+ film Welcome Home, Franklin.
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“Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told” will debut on Thursday, March 21st, 2024. From Executive Producers Luke Campbell, Jermaine Dupri and 21 Savage, and masterfully crafted by Mass Appeal & Swirl Films, Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told is a celebratory exploration of the boisterous times of Freaknik, the iconic Atlanta street party that drew hundreds of thousands of people in the 80s and 90s, helping put Atlanta on the map culturally. Here are some images providing first looks into this epic street festival.
What began as a Black college cookout, soon became known for lurid tales of highway hookups and legendary late-night parties that ultimately led to the festival’s downfall. At its height, Freaknik was a traffic stopping, city-shuttering, juggernaut that has since become a cult classic.
Rooted deep in its history of Civil Rights, thriving Black leadership, and focus on the uplifting of Black culture and education, Atlanta became the only place a festival like this could grow and thrive. Though it ceased over two decades ago, the infamous legacy still resonates through nostalgia and a new generation’s longing for a care-free platform that celebrates and promotes Black excellence, joy and fortitude.
Featuring appearances by 21 Savage, Lil Jon, Killer Mike, Jalen Rose, Too $hort, Shanti Das, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Erick Sermon, CeeLo Green, Rico Wade, Kenny Burns and more, the film offers an intimate glimpse into an enduring legacy, while acknowledging the complexities it introduced into the social fabric and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Atlanta and beyond.
Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told | Official Trailer | Hulu
Credits:
From Mass Appeal in association with Swirl Films, Freaknik, The Wildest Party Never Told is executive produced by Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell, Jermaine Dupri, 21 Savage, Terry “TR” Ross, Melissa Cooper, Alex Avant and Tresa Sanders. Geraldine L. Porras and P. Frank Williams serve as executive producers with Porras serving as showrunner and Williams as Director. Eric Tomosunas executive produces for Swirl Films and Peter Bittenbender executive produces for Mass Appeal. The film is produced by Swirl films’ Jay Allen and Nikki Byles.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/on-the-count-of-three-jerrod-carmichael-tiffany-haddish-hulu/
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Netflix has released the official trailer for upcoming film Shirley and Regina King has been physically and vocally transformed into the iconic political figure.
Shirley tells the story of the first Black congresswoman and political icon, Shirley Chisholm, and her trailblazing run for president of the U.S. It chronicles her audacious, boundary-breaking 1972 presidential campaign.
Check out the jaw dropping first look into the film also starring the late Lance Reddick, Terrence Howard, Amirah Vann and Dorian Crossmond Missick.
Director: John Ridley
Writer: John Ridley
Producers: Regina King and Reina King, Anikah McLaren and Elizabeth Haggard, John Ridley
Executive Producers: Jeff Skoll and Ted Gidlow
Cast: Regina King, Lance Reddick, Lucas Hedges, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Christina Jackson, Michael Cherrie, Dorian Crossmond Missick, Amirah Vann, W. Earl Brown, Brad James, Reina King with André Holland and Terrence Howard
RELATED: First Look Photos from Upcoming Netflix Film “Shirley” Starring Regina King
Release Date: Friday, March 22, 2024
On this weeks episode of Rewind with Ro, Ro Carter and Rob Smith discuss new series mr. & mrs. smith streaming on Prime.
mr. & mrs. smith follows two strangers that land jobs with a spy agency that offers them a life of espionage, wealth, and travel. The catch: new identities in an arranged marriage.
RELATED: Exclusive: Donald Glover On Playing Lando Calrissian In Solo: A Star Wars Story
I normally don’t contribute in first person to any posts, but Kemba’s story is so near and dear to my heart because as a college student in the HBCU there was SO MUCH SUPPORT for Kemba. There were so many fliers. HUNDREDS. These fliers were posted daily. As black and brown women we were so invested in her story and championed for her released. She had an entire army of sisters and I was one of them. Kemba’s story is a cautionary tale. We’ve ALL had the slick talking, fast money boyfriend. But at what cost? I will always hold her story close because this could have been any of us. She was not alone, and we loved her. No judgment. KEMBA will premiere on BET+ Thursday, February 22nd.
BET+ Original Movie | Kemba | Trailer
Based on a true story, KEMBA follows the journey of Kemba Smith, a sheltered college student who falls in love with a man who turns out to be a drug dealing kingpin.
Shortly after meeting her boyfriend, Khalif, Kemba’s relationship with him took an unexpected turn into abuse and grooming when she learned he was a drug-dealer. Though she never dealt or handled drugs, Kemba received an outrageous sentence for her boyfriend’s crimes. The promising Hampton student was suddenly caught in the middle of a “war on drugs.”
Never losing hope in their daughter, Gus and Odessa Smith, along with an attorney from the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, launch a campaign for appeal and later clemency. Their fight for justice launched Kemba’s story into an inspiring journey that harnessed the power of Black civic organizations, sororities, celebrities, and lawmakers to help free Kemba.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/alfre-woodard-talks-bet-series-the-porter/
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The Oscars® Nominees Luncheon was held today in Beverly Hills where the Class Photo was taken. Nominees in attendance include Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role nominee Jeffrey Wright, Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role nominee Sterling K. Brown, Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role nominee Da’Vine Joy Randolph and many more!
The 96th Academy Awards, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, will be held Sunday, March 10, inside the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, and will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET.
RELATED: The Academy Announces the Establishment of the Casting Award for 98th Oscars
blackfilm.com correspondent Koku Tona sat down with Mekhi Phifer to talk LIGHTS OUT. Phifer talked about playing a variety of roles, growing up in Harlem, how to stay focused and grounded in Hollywood and more. Check out the interview and let us know what you think!
Quiver Distribution will release LIGHTS OUT in theaters, on digital and on demand on February 16, 2024.
LIGHTS OUT | Official Trailer
About LIGHTS OUT
LIGHTS OUT was written by Chad Law (The Getback, The Flood) and Garry Charles (The Getback, Welcome to Acapulco) and was directed by Christian Sesma (Paydirt, The Night Crew).
It stars Frank Grillo (The Purge Franchise, Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Mekhi Phifer (“ER,” Divergent Franchise), Jaime King (White Chicks, “Hart of Dixie”), with Dermot Mulroney (My Best Friends Wedding, Mission Impossible Franchise), and Scott Adkins (Section 8, Accident Man), along with Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break,” Transformers), Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone (Terror on the Prairie, Spenser Confidential), Erica Peeples (True to the Game Franchise, Trophy Wife), Juju Chan Szeto (“Wu Assassins,” Jiu Jitsu), Paul Sloan (I Am Wrath, Every Last One of Them), Justin Furstenfeld (Section 8), Kevin Gage (Heat, G.I. Jane).
In LIGHTS OUT, a homeless veteran, Michael “Duffy” Duffield (Grillo), meets a talkative Ex-Con, Max Bomer (Phifer) who notices Duffy’s skills after he gets into a bar fight and offers him a well-paying “job” competing in underground fight clubs.
The pair form an unlikely partnership after their first fight and decide to travel to LA so Duffy can atone for his past and Max can pay back a crime boss, Sage Parker (Mulroney). Duffy enters Sage’s fight club and eventually wins, but it also gets him tied up in the crime world and offered jobs he can’t refuse, including one with Sage’s partner and Police officer, Ellen Ridgway (King). The deeper Duffy goes in this world, the more deadly it gets.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/mekhi-phifer-talks-divergent/
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blackfilm.com correspondent Koku Tona sat down to interview the cast of “BOTCH” to talk the hot new drama/romance/thriller. Producer AlNuke talked casting and choosing Tubi as a home, while actors Kelly Kellz, Armeen Acy and Kelsey Delemar spoke about their roles, experiences on set and the dangers of the plastic surgery underworld. “BOTCH” is streaming on Tubi now!
Check out the interview and let us know what you think!
ABOUT “BOTCH”
Amidst the glitzy allure of Sex and Glamour, a sinister secret brewed as a seemingly benevolent woman offers the promise of perfect curves with her underground booty enhancement shots. Little do her clients know, the pursuit of aesthetic perfection becomes a deadly gamble, as the lethal injections weave a dark tale of beauty, betrayal, and murder”.
Layla, an aspiring plastic surgeon, dreams of sculpting beauty and healing scars in a world that has left her deeply wounded. Haunted by a dark childhood trauma, depression, mental health, and financial mishaps, Layla finds herself teetering on the edge of morality and ethics. Layla meets Russ, who presents her with a dangerous proposition of easy money, power, and manipulative love. Layla falls to temptation and begins performing risky and unauthorized butt enhancement shots across the country. The plot takes a dark turn when several women who received Layla’s injections begin to suffer severe health complications and some meet untimely deaths. Detectives and investigators start closing in on Layla, determined to uncover the truth behind the disturbing pattern of casualties.
“BOTCH” is a Drama/Romance/ Thriller film that unveils the dark and deadly side of the pursuit of physical perfection, intertwining horror and moral tales in a chilling, suspense-filled, cinematic experience. The film is produced by Big Bizz Media, produced by actor and director AlNuke, and Executive Produced by music producer Zaytoven.
Related Links: https://www.blackfilm.com/read/dennis-reed-ii-lemastor-spratling-talk-he-said-she-said/
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The Board of Governors of The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has announced the establishment of a new Academy Award® category for Achievement in Casting. This has been a long standing conversation as casting directors play a integral role in the development of film and television. The honor won’t officially make its debut until 2026 during the 98th Oscars which will spotlight the outstanding achievements of productions released in 2025.
“Casting directors play an essential role in filmmaking, and as the Academy evolves, we are proud to add casting to the disciplines that we recognize and celebrate,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. “We congratulate our Casting Directors Branch members on this exciting milestone and for their commitment and diligence throughout this process.”
Category rules for eligibility and voting for the inaugural award will be announced in April 2025 with the complete 98th Academy Awards Rules. The specifics of the award’s presentation will be determined by the Academy’s Board of Governors and its administrative leadership at a future date.
“On behalf of the members of the Casting Directors Branch, we’d like to thank the Board of Governors, the Awards Committee and Academy leadership for their support. This award is a deserved acknowledgment of our casting directors’ exceptional talents and a testament to the dedicated efforts of our branch,” said Academy Casting Directors Branch governors Richard Hicks, Kim Taylor-Coleman and Debra Zane.
Prior to this announcement, the last category added was Best Animated Feature Film, established in 2001.
RELATED: Exclusive: Casting Director Robi Reed Talks ‘Set It Off’ 20 Years Later
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