“BET Awards” 2023 will returnLIVE from Los Angeles on Sunday, June 25. Culture’s Biggest Night will celebrate five decades of Hip Hop throughout the LIVE telecast on BET.“BET Awards” has been the #1 cable award show among all adults 18-49 for two consecutive years, 2022 and 2021, and is the #1 cable award show among Black adults 18-49 for the 21st consecutive year (CY02-CY22).
“We are thrilled to be back in LA for BET Awards 2023 and to celebrate a huge cultural milestone- the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “For five decades, Hip Hop has not only influenced American culture but has become a global phenomenon and one of the most influential musical genres of our lifetime. From music to fashion, art, and entertainment, we are honored to have always provided a platform for Hip Hop to thrive. We look forward to paying tribute to the pioneers and innovators as we amplify the new generation of Hip Hop artists like only BET can.”
Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee and Executive Produce the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy to Co-Executive Produce for BET. Jesse Collins Entertainment is the production company for the show, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay alsoserving as Executive Producers.
Bet.com/bet-awards is the official site for “BET Awards” 2023 and will have all the latest news and updates about this year’s show. The media credential application for “BET Awards” 2023 will be available soon.
TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS IS IN THEATRES JUNE 9, 2023
SYNOPSIS:
Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new faction of Transformers – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theatres June 9, 2023.
Paramount Pictures and Skydance Present
In Association with Hasbro and New Republic Pictures
ERIC TOMOSUNAS’ SWIRL FILMS AND MONA SCOTT-YOUNG’S MONAMI PRODUCTIONS PARTNER TO PRODUCE TRUE CRIME FILM SERIES “LOVE & MURDER: ATLANTA PLAYBOY”
THE BET+ ORIGINAL FILM SERIES STARRING TAYE DIGGS,
SET TO PREMIERE LATER THIS YEAR
Mona Scott-Young of Monami Productions and Eric Tomosunas of Swirl Films announce a new partnership for “Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy”. The true crime film series starring Taye Diggs is set to premiere later this year on BET+.
When Lance (Diggs), a successful Atlanta businessman, renowned in equal measure for both revolutionizing the city’s 911 system, and his womanizing ways, is found murdered in his own home, questions and allegations abound as to who might have wanted him dead. An investigation into the murder is launched which reveals the truths and suspicions behind Lance’s professional and personal life. Was it a business rival, threatened by Lance’s bid for a big contract? Was it a scorned lover jealous of the place occupied in Lance’s bed?
Based on the book “Redbone: Money, Malice and Murder in Atlanta,” by Ron Stodghill” “Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy” reconstructs Lance’s life as told by the various players in it. Hot on the heels of Lifetime’s recent hit film “Girl In The Closet,” Courtney Miller (“Under the Influence,” “Saints & Sinners”) joins the production as director.
“Working in partnership with Mona and her team at Monami Productions to produce this film series is certainly a career highlight. This is the beginning of many collaborations that will emphasize important stories that will be told by an extraordinary producing team. We couldn’t be more excited,” says Swirl Films founder, Eric Tomosunas.
“I am so excited to collaborate with Swirl Films on our first project, ‘Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy’. “ says media maverick, Mona Scott-Young. “The film series is a captivating true life crime story that captures the unique culture of Atlanta. BET has always provided a platform for stories that are authentic and relatable and we are proud to be partnered with them on this project.”
“I’m thrilled to work with these dynamic teams to bring this fascinating story to the screen,” says star Taye Diggs. “The audience will be intrigued by the ride that is Lance’s real life and I can’t wait for them to experience it.”
“Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy” is directed by Courtney Miller and written by Gregory R. Anderson. The film is produced for BET+ by Monami Productions and Swirl Films. Mona Scott-Young and Eric Tomosunas serve as Executive Producers. Author Ron Stodghill serves as Co-Executive producer with Stephanie R. Gayle of Monami Productions and Abbey MacDonald of Swirl Films. Ron Robinson and Keith Neal of Swirl Films serve as Producers.
Brian Rikuda and Devin Griffin Produce. Lorisa Bates and Marvin Neil serve as Co-Executive Producers. John Baldasare and Noelle Broussard serve as Consulting Producers all for BET Films.
FROM GRAMMY AND EMMY AWARD WINNING ARTIST AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER MARY J. BLIGE, COMES TWO NEW ORIGINAL MOVIES INSPIRED BY HER BEST-SELLING SONGS
REAL LOVE AND STRENGTH OF A WOMAN,
STARRING AJIONA ALEXUS AND DA’VINCHI
PREMIERING JUNE 10 AND JUNE 17,
JOHN AND JORDAN DAVIS PRODUCE ALONGSIDE BLIGE,
ASHAUNNA K. AYARS AND Q. NICOLE JACKSON
The “Queen of Hip Hop Soul,” will be the queen of this summer with two new original movies inspired by Mary J. Blige’s biggest hits — Mary J. Blige’sReal Love andMary J. Blige’sStrength of a Woman, set to premiere on back-to-back Saturdays, beginning June 10 at 8p/7c. The two-pack of movies are headlined by Ajiona Alexus (Empire,13 Reasons Why) and Da’Vinchi (BMF, All American) with Princess Davis, Austin Anozie, Millan Tesfazgi, Shiraine Haas, Garfield Wilson and Hamza Fouad rounding out the cast and portrays the highs and lows of young Black love.
The story of Kendra and Ben continues in Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman, jumping ahead more than 15 years. Now a successful photographer, Kendra finds herself in a failing marriage and must reckon with the decisions she made for the life she thought she wanted. When Ben unexpectedly comes back into her life, she is forced to a crisis point and must dig deep to find the strength to take control of her life and accept the love Ben may be offering again. In support of the content, Lifetime has partnered with Take Back The Night Foundation®, an international event and non-profit organization with the mission ending all forms of sexual violence, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, trafficking, stalking, gender harassment, and relationship violence, and to support survivors in their healing journeys. Helming both movies as executive producers are JohnDavis and Jordan Davis of Davis Entertainment Jordan recently produced Lifetime’s highly rated film, Love You to Death, inspired by the story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Jordan is also a producer on Netflix’s upcoming science-fiction/fantasy film The Uglies, starring Joey King and Laverne Cox. Set to be released this year, development on the project dates back to 2006 as it was a favorite novel of Jordan and her daughter’s. Veteran film, television and award-winning producer John Davis is known for more than 115 top grossing feature films including Jungle Cruise, Predator, Grumpy Old Men, Waterworld and most recently Prey, to name a few. Mary J. Blige also serves as an executive producer on both original films through her own production banner, Blue Butterfly with Ashaunna K. Ayars and Q. Nicole Jackson as co-producers. Blige has a proven track record of resonating with Lifetime’s audiences, having previously executive produced Lifetime’s top-rated original movie of 2020, The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospelalongside fellow EPs Queen Latifah and Missy Elliott. In 2020, The Clark Sisters reached more than 13.9 million Total Viewers1 and was 2020’s #1 original movie on cable.2 Blige also starred as Dr. Betty Shabazz in her first movie role in the Lifetime civil rights biopic Betty & Coretta, with Angela Bassett. In addition, Mary J. Blige’s Real Love and Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman are also produced by Front Street Pictures and are being distributed by Sony Pictures Television. Camrus Johnson directs Real Love from a script written by Sonja Warfield and Rachel Ingram, and Shari Lynette Carpenter directs Strength of a Woman from a script written by Ingram.
Warner Bros. Pictures presents “The Flash,” directed by Andy Muschietti (the “IT” films, “Mama”). Ezra Miller reprises their role as Barry Allen in the DC Super Hero’s first-ever standalone feature film. Worlds collide in “The Flash” when Barry uses his superpowers to travel back in time in order to change the events of the past. But when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. That is, unless Barry can coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian… albeit not the one he’s looking for. Ultimately, to save the world that he is in and return to the future that he knows, Barry’s only hope is to race for his life. But will making the ultimate sacrifice be enough to reset the universe? “The Flash” ensemble also includes rising star Sasha Calle, Michael Shannon (“Bullet Train,” “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”), Ron Livingston (“Loudermilk,” “The Conjuring”), Maribel Verdú (“Elite,” “Y tu mamá también”), Kiersey Clemons (“Zack Snyder’s Justice League,” “Sweetheart”), Antje Traue (“King of Ravens,” “Man of Steel”) and Michael Keaton (“Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Batman”).
In honor of hip hop’s 50th anniversary, BET Digital will pay homage to the greatest rap crews of all time. In a multiplatform, tournament-style bracket, 32 of the most recognized rap crews (a.k.a. collectives) in hip hop history categorized by region (East Coast, Dirty South, Midwest, and West Coast) will go head to head in a battle to be crowned the TheGreatest Rap Crew of All Time.
BET is partnering with both audience engagement tech company Telescopeand content partners Ambrosia For Heads for the first time ever to execute and promote this one-of-a-kind digital hip hop competition.
Each week, our audience of Hip Hop fans and creators will cast their votes for their top pick. The winner is determined directly by the fans and will be announced during BET Awards weekend.
Fans will also be entered into sweepstakes to win incredible prizes including two tickets and accommodations to “BET Awards” 2023.
Voting for the TheGreatest Rap Crew of All Time contest launches Monday, May 1 on BET.com, Twitter and Instagram over a six-week window.
PLATFORMS: Results can be viewed on BET.com, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
Fans will have the opportunity to let us know who should be in the contest, and vote on some of the greatest rap crews like:
Bad Boy Family
NWA & The Posse
Odd Future
Ruff Ryders
And many more
“BET and hip hop have grown alongside each other for decades, so we are honored to celebrate this milestone and the contributions made by the most popular hip hop stars, in a way that gives voice to the most important part of hip hop: the fans,” said Kimberly Paige, EVP & CMO, BET. “We are excited to partner with Telescope and our content partners, Ambrosia For Heads to honor this artform in an innovative way; and let the people, not the industry, choose the Greatest Rap Crew of All Time.”
View and download The Greatest Rap Crew of All Time
The New Empire is a sequel to 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong, but it will go in a slightly different direction than that movie by having the two giant monsters join forces. According to Legendary Pictures’ description, the two will be forced to work together to battle “a world-ending threat so terrifying that neither could survive alone.”
Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, launches the final chapters of one of cinema’s most storied and popular global franchises, now in its third decade and still going strong with the same core cast and characters as when it began.
Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.
https://youtu.be/IZlrl_zeVpw
In 2011’s Fast Five, Dom and his crew took out nefarious Brazilian drug kingpin Hernan Reyes and decapitated his empire on a bridge in Rio De Janeiro. What they didn’t know was that Reyes’ son, Dante (Aquaman’s Jason Momoa), witnessed it all and has spent the last 12 years masterminding a plan to make Dom pay the ultimate price.
Dante’s plot will scatter Dom’s family from Los Angeles to the catacombs of Rome, from Brazil to London and from Portugal to Antarctica. New allies will be forged and old enemies will resurface. But everything changes when Dom discovers that his own 8-year-old son (Leo Abelo Perry, Black-ish) is the ultimate target of Dante’s vengeance.
Directed by Louis Leterrier (Clash of the Titans, The Incredible Hulk), Fast X stars returning cast members Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang, Jason Statham, John Cena and Scott Eastwood, with Oscar® winner Helen Mirren and Oscar® winner Charlize Theron.
The film also features an extraordinary new cast including Oscar® winner Brie Larson as Tess, a rogue representative from the Agency; Alan Richtson (Reacher) as Aimes, the new head of the Agency who doesn’t hold the same fondness for Dom’s crew as his predecessor, Mr. Nobody; Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad) as a Brazilian street racer with a powerful tie to Dom’s past; and legendary Oscar® winner Rita Moreno as Dom and Mia’s Abuelita Toretto.
Fast X is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Samantha Vincent. The executive producers are Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis and Mark Bomback. www.thefastsaga.com
Genre: Action Thriller Cast: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Jason Momoa, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, John Cena, Jason Statham, Sung Kang, Alan Ritchson, Daniela Melchior, Scott Eastwood, with Helen Mirren, Charlize Theron, Brie Larson and Rita Moreno Directed by: Louis Leterrier Screenplay by: Justin Lin, Zach Dean, Dan Mazeau Based on Characters Created By: Gary Scott Thompson Producers: Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum, Samantha Vincent Executive Producers: Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis, Mark Bomback
Synopsis: In Insidious: The Red Door, the horror franchise’s original cast returns for the final chapter of the Lambert family’s terrifying saga. To put their demons to rest once and for all, Josh (Patrick Wilson) and a college-aged Dalton (Ty Simpkins) must go deeper into The Further than ever before, facing their family’s dark past and a host of new and more horrifying terrors that lurk behind the red door.
Screenplay By: Virgil Williams, Malcolm Washington
Based on the play ‘The Piano Lesson’ by August Wilson
Producers: Academy Award Winner Denzel Washington, Academy Award Nominee Todd Black
Executive Producers: Constanza Romero, Jennifer Roth, Katia Washington
Cast: Oscar Winner Samuel L. Jackson (Honorary Award – 2021) (Pulp Fiction, Avengers), John David Washington (BlacKKKlansman, Tenet), Ray Fisher (Zack Snyder’s Justice League, Rebel Moon), Danielle Deadwyler (Till, The Harder They Fall), Michael Potts (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Rustin), Corey Hawkins (Straight Outta Compton, The Tragedy of Macbeth)
Logline: Set in 1936 Pittsburgh during the aftermath of the Great Depression, The Piano Lesson follows the lives of the Charles family in the Doaker Charles household and an heirloom, the family piano, which documents the family history through carvings made by their enslaved ancestor.
The Broadway revival of August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson starring Samuel L Jackson and John David Washington recently concluded its run at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, having played 27 previews and 124 regular performances. The production is the highest grossing revival of a play on Broadway and the highest grossing Wilson production on Broadway ever.
The Piano Lesson is part of Wilson’s 10 play “American Century Cycle” and includes Fences and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom was released globally on Netflix in 2021. The film received five Academy Award nominations (Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Production Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Best Costume Design) and two Academy Award wins (Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Costume Design). Directed by George C. Wolfe and adapted for the screen by Ruben Santiago-Hudson, the film stars Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman, Michael Potts, Taylour Paige, Dusan Brown, Jeremy Shamos and Jonny Coyne.
In 2010 Denzel Washington and Viola Davis starred in the revival of August Wilson’s Fences on Broadway. They both won Tony Awards for their roles. In 2016 Washington directed and starred alongside Viola Davis in the film adaptation of Fences which received 3 Academy Awards nominations for Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Adapted Screenplay, and an Academy Award win for Viola Davis.
On the final tour stop for her 2022 bestsellerThe Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times, Michelle Obama unpacks her toolbox. In a wide-ranging conversation with good friend Oprah Winfrey, the former First Lady shares personal family stories about her childhood and time in the White House, offers hard won wisdom about self-confidence, fear, and aging, and gives practical advice for living in modern times, including the power of a kitchen table full of friends. Covering everything from menopause to social issues to romance, Obama and Winfrey have a candid, at times poignant, at times comedic but always real conversation about the moment in which we are living. The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama & Oprah Winfrey is a Netflix Special in association with Higher Ground Productions & Jesse Collins Entertainment.
The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey
Special releasing in the United States on April 25th, 2023
BALOOM’s Microcurrent Face Massager presents best-in-class dermatological technology by combining microcurrent and vibrating functions to reach beneath the superficial layers of the skin, deep down to the hard to reach facial muscles. This technology provides a non-invasive, injection-free and painless face-lift at home in just ten minutes a day. Microcurrent therapy sends low-voltage electrical currents, which mimic natural currents, through the superficial layers of your skin, down to the facial muscles to work out the muscles. The electrical pulses and vibrations work to tone the muscles in the face and with consistent use, sculpts, firms and tones your skin.
The microcurrents also stimulate collagen production to improve facial contour and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The rollers of the BALOOM Microcurrent Face Massager are designed to mimic thumbs to emulate a facial acupressure experience. The distinctive zinc alloy used for the rollers allows for a light weight durable device that is easy to grip and maneuver. The BALOOM Microcurrent Face Massager will be a staple in your skincare routine for younger, glowing skin!
Jamie Foxx’s daughter, Corinne Foxx brought some sad news to the internet. The world-renowned, Jamie Foxx is currently in the hospital due to medical complications.
Corrinne typed up a letter on IG saying, “We wanted to share that, my father Jamie Foxx experienced a medical complication yesterday. Luckily, due to quick action and great care, he is already on his way to recovery”.
Max has released first look footage and an image of the series, officially titled THE PENGUIN from Warner Bros. Television and DC Studios. Starring Colin Farrell as The Penguin, the eight-episode DC Studios drama series continues The Batman epic crime saga that filmmaker Matt Reeves began with Warner Bros. Pictures’ global blockbuster “The Batman,” and centers on the character played by Farrell in the film. The first look was revealed today exclusively during Warner Bros. Discovery’s unveiling of the Max streaming service on the Warner Bros. lot in Los Angeles.
Cast: The previously announced cast includes Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Michael Kelly, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Deirdre O’Connell, with Clancy Brown and Michael Zegen recurring.
Credits: The series is executive produced by Matt Reeves, Dylan Clark, Colin Farrell, Lauren LeFranc, who writes and serves as showrunner, Craig Zobel, who directs the first three episodes, and Bill Carraro. Based on characters created for DC by Bob Kane with Bill Finger, THE PENGUIN is produced by Reeves’ 6th & Idaho Productions and Dylan Clark Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, where Reeves and 6th & Idaho are under an overall deal. 6th & Idaho’s Daniel Pipski also serves as executive producer and Rafi Crohn is co-executive producer.
Highly anticipated Apple Original series stars Rebecca Ferguson, Common, Harriet Walter, Chinaza Uche, Avi Nash, David Oyelowo, Rashida Jones and Tim Robbins
Apple TV+ today unveiled the trailer for “Silo,” the gripping, world-building Apple Original drama based on Hugh Howey’s New York Times bestselling trilogy of dystopian novels, starring an ensemble cast led by Rebecca Ferguson (“Dune,” “Mission: Impossible” films), who also serves as an executive producer. Created by Emmy-nominated screenwriter Graham Yost (“Band of Brothers,” “Justified”), who also serves as showrunner, the 10-episode series will premiere globally on Apple TV+ on Friday, May 5, 2023 with the first two episodes, followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday through June 30, 2023.
“Silo” is the story of the last ten thousand people on earth, their mile-deep home protecting them from the toxic and deadly world outside. However, no one knows when or why the silo was built and any who try to find out face fatal consequences. Ferguson stars as Juliette, an engineer, who seeks answers about a loved one’s murder and tumbles onto a mystery that goes far deeper than she could have ever imagined, leading her to discover that if the lies don’t kill you, the truth will.
The ensemble cast starring alongside Ferguson includes Common (“The Chi”), Emmy nominee Harriet Walter (“Succession”), Chinaza Uche (“Dickinson”), Avi Nash (“The Walking Dead”), Critics Choice Award and NAACP winner David Oyelowo (“Selma”), Emmy nominee Rashida Jones (“Parks and Recreation”) and Academy Award winner Tim Robbins (“Mystic River”).
“Silo” is produced for Apple TV+ by AMC Studios and based on the novels by Hugh Howey. The series is executive produced by Yost, Howey and Ferguson, alongside Academy Award nominee Morten Tyldum (“Defending Jacob,” “The Imitation Game”) who also directs the first three episodes, Nina Jack, Fred Golan, Rémi Aubuchon and Ingrid Escajeda.
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 348 wins and 1,440 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
I was very impressed with the BALOOM STRETCHING MASSAGER! I’ve dealt with pain in my neck and my back for years and after 20 mins on the BALOOM STRETCHING MASSAGER I felt relief.
Start and end each day with a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga session on the BALOOM STRETCHING MASSAGER. The dynamic compression and expansion of 22 air chambers provide a full body yoga session to improve blood circulation and optimize stretching to release muscle tension and soothe sore and aching muscles. Pre-programmed stretches emulate yoga sessions that enhance flexibility and mobility while improving inner balance and strength. Add the heat therapy feature for an even more relaxing and soothing experience. BALOOM has numerous features and options to customize and maximize your experience.
Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, launches the final chapters of one of cinema’s most storied and popular global franchises, now in its third decade and still going strong with the same core cast and characters as when it began.
https://youtu.be/m4Em5Hd_kSI
Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.
In 2011’s Fast Five, Dom and his crew took out nefarious Brazilian drug kingpin Hernan Reyes and decapitated his empire on a bridge in Rio De Janeiro. What they didn’t know was that Reyes’ son, Dante (Aquaman’s Jason Momoa), witnessed it all and has spent the last 12 years masterminding a plan to make Dom pay the ultimate price.
Dante’s plot will scatter Dom’s family from Los Angeles to the catacombs of Rome, from Brazil to London and from Portugal to Antarctica. New allies will be forged and old enemies will resurface. But everything changes when Dom discovers that his own 8-year-old son (Leo Abelo Perry, Black-ish) is the ultimate target of Dante’s vengeance.
Directed by Louis Leterrier (Clash of the Titans, The Incredible Hulk) and written by Justin Lin (F9) & Dan Mazeau (Wrath of the Titans), Fast X stars returning cast members Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang, Jason Statham, John Cena and Scott Eastwood, with Oscar® winner Helen Mirren and Oscar® winner Charlize Theron. The film also features an extraordinary new cast including Oscar® winner Brie Larson as Tess, a rogue representative from the Agency; Alan Richtson (Reacher) as Aimes, the new head of the Agency who doesn’t hold the same fondness for Dom’s crew as his predecessor, Mr. Nobody; Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad) as a Brazilian street racer with a powerful tie to Dom’s past; and legendary Oscar® winner Rita Moreno as Dom and Mia’s Abuelita Toretto. Fast X is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Samantha Vincent. The executive producers are Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David
Genre: Action ThrillerCast: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Jason Momoa, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, John Cena, Jason Statham, Sung Kang, Alan Ritchson, Daniela Melchior, Scott Eastwood, with Helen Mirren, Charlize Theron, Brie Larson and Rita MorenoDirected by: Louis LeterrierWritten by: Justin Lin & Dan MazeauBased on Characters Created By: Gary Scott ThompsonProducers: Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum, Samantha VincentExecutive Producers: Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis, Mark Bomback
Hulu has plans to bring the story of Freaknik to the silver screen. Exclusively reported by Variety, the streamer announced Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told, an original documentary chronicling how the infamous affair came to prominence and its demise.
From Warner Bros. Pictures comes the feature film “Blue Beetle,” marking the DC Super Hero’s first time on the big screen. The film, directed by Angel Manuel Soto, stars Xolo Maridueña in the title role as well as his alter ego, Jaime Reyes. Recent college grad Jaime Reyes returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it.
https://youtu.be/OPjLuIFQXD4
As he searches to find his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab. When the Scarab suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the Super Hero BLUE BEETLE. Starring alongside Maridueña (“Cobra Kai”) are Adriana Barraza (“Rambo: Last Blood,” “Thor”) as Jaime’s grandmother, Nana, Damían Alcázar (“Narcos,” “Narcos: Mexico”) as his father, Elpidia Carrillo (“Mayans M.C.,” the “Predator” films) as his mother, Bruna Marquezine (“Maldivas,” “God Save the King”) as Jenny Kord, Raoul Max Trujillo (the “Sicario” films, “Mayans M.C.”) as Carapax, with Oscar winner Susan Sarandon (“Monarch,” “Dead Man Walking”) as Victoria Kord, and George Lopez (the “Rio and “Smurf” franchises) as Jaime’s Uncle Rudy. The film also stars Belissa Escobedo (“American Horror Stories,” “Hocus Pocus 2”) as Jaime’s sister, Milagro, and Harvey Guillén (“What We Do in the Shadows”) as Dr. Sanchez. Soto (“Charm City Kings,” “The Farm”) directs from a screenplay by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (“Miss Bala”), based on characters from DC. John Rickard and Zev Foreman are producing, with Walter Hamada, Galen Vaisman and Garrett Grant serving as executive producers. The director’s creative team behind the scenes includes director of photography Pawel Pogorzelski (“Midsommar,” “Hereditary”), production designer John Billington (“Bad Boys for Life”), editor Craig Alpert (“Deadpool 2,” “The Lost City”), Oscar-nominated costume designer Mayes C. Rubeo (“Jojo Rabbit,” the “Thor” films), visual effects supervisor Kelvin McIlwain (“The Suicide Squad,” “Aquaman”) and composer Bobby Krlic (“Midsommar,” the “Snowpiercer” series). A Warner Bros. Pictures Presentation, a Safran Company Production, “Blue Beetle” soars into theaters only internationally beginning August 2023 and in North America August 18, 2023. It will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Today, ALLBLK, the popular streaming service for Black television and film from AMC Networks, will premiere new drama film, LOLA 2.
Three years following the release of LOLA, film director Antoine Allen delivers a new chapter with LOLA 2. The new installment picks up with champion amateur boxer and lifelong fighter Lola (Taja V. Simpson), now in love and starting a family, as she struggles to give up her championship and leave the ring with her career unfinished.
Cast includes Taja V. Simpson (The Oval), Elise Neal (Hustle & Flow), Tamala Jones (Booty Call), Dreamdoll (Rapper), Jackie Long (ATL), Torrei Hart (Hollywould) and additional cast includes Claressa Shields (BET Her Presents: The Waiting Room), Roy Jones Jr. (Little Fockers) and Akintola Jiboyewa (Monster).
LOLA and LOLA 2 become available on ALLBLK, Thursday,April 6.
Gospel music superstars Tamela & David Mann and Dr. Bobby Jones were celebrated today at the 2023 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards held at Flourish in Atlanta, GA. The awards show paid tribute to the best in the Gospel music community and honored BMI’s GospelSong of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Publisher of the Year and the top 25 Gospel songs of the previous year. BMI’s President & CEO, Mike O’Neill and Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton hosted the event.
The inspirational luncheon began with a celebration of music and joyful worship with Jonathan McReynolds, Chandler Moore and Kirk Franklin performing a medley of three of BMI’s award-winning songs, “Grace,” “Jireh” and “Kingdom,” before moving to the event’s main honorees and award-winners.
As a Trailblazer of Gospel Music honoree, Dr. Bobby Jones was saluted for his legendary career, mentorship of the next generation and his tireless contributions to the genre. The tribute performances honoring Jones’ legacy kicked off with The Company singing “What a Friend,” followed by a beautiful rendition of “Bring it to Jesus” featuring Beverly Crawford.
Evvie McKinney
Tamela and David Mann were celebrated as BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music for their exceptional success in the genre and beyond, both as stellar songwriters, artists and actors. The musical tributes to The Manns kicked-off with Zacardi Cortez and Anaysha Figueroa-Cooper giving a moving performance of “Now Behold the Lamb,” followed by Lisa Knowles-Smith who gave a powerful rendition of “Take Me to the King.” After accepting the honor and thanking those who have helped the husband-and-wife team along the way, Tamela Mann surprised the audience with an explosive performance of her mega-hit, “Change Me,” which spent 23 weeks at number one on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Chart.
Carrington Gaines
Throughout the event, BMI saluted the Top 25 most-performed Gospel songs of the previous year, leading up to the coveted BMI Gospel Song of the Year, which went to “Believe For It” written by CeCe Winans and Mitch Wong(APRA). The song spent 12 weeks at the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Chart and garnered multiple accolades including two GMA Dove Awards and a GRAMMY for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song. BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year was a tie between Dante Bowe and Jonathan McReynolds for each writing two of the most performed Gospel songs of the previous year. Bowe was honored for “Joyful” and “Promises” and McReynolds for “Brighter” and “Grace.” BMI’s Gospel Publisher of the Year went to Be Essential Songs for having award-winning songs “Brighter,” “Jireh,” “Promises” and “Something Has to Break,” among its repertoire.
Throughout the event, BMI saluted the Top 25 most-performed Gospel songs of the previous year, leading up to the coveted BMI Gospel Song of the Year, which went to “Believe For It” written by CeCe Winans and Mitch Wong(APRA). The song spent 12 weeks at the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Chart and garnered multiple accolades including two GMA Dove Awards and a GRAMMY for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song. BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year was a tie between Dante Bowe and Jonathan McReynolds for each writing two of the most performed Gospel songs of the previous year. Bowe was honored for “Joyful” and “Promises” and McReynolds for “Brighter” and “Grace.” BMI’s Gospel Publisher of the Year went to Be Essential Songs for having award-winning songs “Brighter,” “Jireh,” “Promises” and “Something Has to Break,” among its repertoire.
During the ceremony, the late legendary soul singer/songwriter Otis Redding was honored with four BMI Million-Air Awards, a distinction that recognizes songwriters whose works have achieved the rare feat of surpassing one million broadcast performances on radio. Originally written and recorded by Otis Redding in the 1960’s, the songs were “Sweet Soul Music” (4 million performances), “Hard to Handle” (7 million performances), “Respect” (7 million performances) and BMI’s Song of the Year in 1968, the incomparable “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay” (12 million performances). Attending the ceremony were members of Redding’s family, including his wife Zelma and their daughter Karla Redding-Andrews, who accepted the honors on behalf of her father and the Otis Redding Foundation.
Additional performances included a special tribute to the late singer/producer/choir director Kevin Lemons, who was known for his work with Donald Lawrence and the Company, and his own dynamic group known as Kevin Lemons and Higher Calling. Members of Higher Calling hit the stage for a soul-stirring performance of “Perfect Peace” accompanied by Donald Lawrence and The Company. Other award-winning songs performed throughout the evening included “Just Like God” by Evvie McKinney, “Great” by Kelontae Gavin and “Wonderful is Your Name” by Melvin Crispell.
Sylvester 
