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Ramya Kuppa

Ramya Kuppa

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On the Scene: Normal Ain’t Normal

by Ramya Kuppa September 22, 2022
written by Ramya Kuppa

Tackling present day topics in media is an often used method to break down and understand perspective in a better manner, however it’s easy to get the message lost in insincerity. Many have attempted to tackle the Covid pandemic in recent media and often are met with lukewarm feelings. It always boils down to sincerity and a feeling of genuineness. Especially with a topic that the world is actively facing still. Offside Productions is the recent contender to the challenge, with the upcoming anthology series Normal Ain’t Normal, co-produced by BuzzFeed and activist & actress Rosario Dawson. The series presents the realities of social injustice and economic disparity in America that became more prevalent during the height of the early stages of the pandemic.

Helmed by director Yvan Iturriaga and co-writers Josh Healey, Reem Assil, Tommy Orange, and Reyna Amaya, the 4 episode series will be available to stream on BuzzFeedVideo on YouTube and Facebook starting September 27th, 2022. The digital short series tackles our current pandemic landscape in a fresh manner by realistically pulling in raw humor and diverse storytelling to reflect the local community’s experience. Who better to share the realities the Bay Area, specifically Oakland, faced during the pandemic than an Oakland creative team. Each episode involved different members of the team and pulled from personal experiences from their professional, health, and racial experiences during the pandemic and it’s immediate aftermath. With mixes of fantasy, emotional monologues, and humor, each episode of Normal Ain’t Normal reminds the audience of what’s truly important: community and our fellow humankind.

Featured cast included actors and debut acting from Reem Assil, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Martin Sensmeier, Tristan Cunningham, Sal Lopez, and Rosario Dawson. The Knockturnal had the opportunity to speak with Director and co-creator Yvan Iturriaga and writer/actor Reem Assil about their experiences with the series.

How do you go about telling a story on a topic that is still actively going on right now? Film is typically an escape, so how do you tackle keeping it fresh and pull viewers in?

Iturriaga: “It is our intention, me and Josh (Healey), and our passion to work on films that is very relevant to our lives. Sadly the pandemic is still relevant these years later, however the story really focuses on the working class community. We knew the impact of the pandemic, even after the vaccine would carry on for a long time. The pandemic made a lot of people realize, things are going to change. What was “normal” wasn’t okay, and things that were taken for granted needed to shift. We live in a society that doesn’t value workers and their stories need to be heard the loudest.”

As a director, did you come across any areas of opposing vision while working with the writers for each episode?

Iturriaga: We didn’t have any conflicts. There’s a lot of trust, we often shared guides and drafts to each other to ensure strong collaboration amongst us. My job as a director and directing what others wrote, is to actually trust the writers. I always went back to them, especially with Tommy (Orange) as there’s a story very specific to him, and who am I to tell a Native American story. I need his validation and guidance to tell it right. For us, writers are very key and we need to follow them.

Writer Josh Healy, Writer/actor Reem Assil, and Director Yvan Iturriaga

Josh Healey, Reem Assil, and Yvan Iturriaga at the premiere screening of “Normal Ain’t Normal”

Reem Assil, Oakland based chef and writer shared similar sentiments in her journey in writing out an episode for the series.

Assil: “For me, the most healing thing is to take people on my journey with me. Makes you more vulnerable which has its drawbacks and I certainly grapple with that in my episode. But at the end of the day, it allows others to not see you as this two dimensional person. My identity is inter-sectional, I’m a Palestinian woman but I’m also a restaurateur and a worker. All of these identities play into how I see the world. The pandemic made that perspective for me much clearer, and in the series we really zoned in on that experience. What I want is justice, I don’t want to be a cog stuck in the wheel or be a token for the outside world to create their own story.”

Assil had opened her restaurant mere days before the California lock-down, and grappled with the realities of taking care of her employees and livelihood during an unknown time. The crucial value that helped everyone carry forward strongly through the pandemic was always community and caring for each other. Assil often mentioned that the label of chef is not for her, as it has a connotation of a “one man show” but behind every success is the hard work of an entire staff and team. These feelings of vulnerability, community, and facing the unknown are prevalent throughout the writing of the series, allowing viewers to remind themselves of the raw emotions that many people faced in the height of the pandemic. But the series educates viewers through four characters perspectives stemming from diverse backgrounds to highlight the diversity of Oakland’s community is a strong point and should not be forgotten. The cinematography tactics used weaved elements of spoken poetry and speeches to add emotion through the camera, making the acting extremely human. Iturriaga’s direction and art style behind the camera really highlighted each actors strong suits, whether that be facial expression, body language, stunts, or more. His direction really pulled together the synergy of each script to relay messages in a succinct and impactful manner.

Normal Ain't Normal cast and crew panel discussion

Panel discussion for the premiere screening of “Normal Ain’t Normal”

The select audience that night were privy to a full screening of all four episodes of the digital series, and a panel discussion touching on all the sociopolitical topics highlighted within the series. Oakland gentrification, tech boom, Covid medical bills, the fluctuating financial landscape, these are some of the ongoing realities for many in the Bay and the pandemic was quite isolating. The team aimed and succeeded in bringing to light those realities and using storytelling as a tool to remind others, you are not alone. In the words of co-creator and writer Josh Healey, “Normal is what got us into this sh*t in the first place”, so it’s beyond time for us to re-define our “normal”. Society is always stronger together, and change can only come from community care and action. The premiere was held at the Oakland Museum of California, and the theater was filled with laughter, acknowledgement, and a silent reminiscence as we were taken through a journey of emotions many of us have reflected on privately in the last few years.

Panel of cast and crew for "Normal Ain't Normal"

Premiere screening of “Normal Ain’t Normal” at Oakland Museum of California in Oakland, Calif., September 17, 2022.

Co-creators Iturriaga and Josh Healey have worked with Offside Productions before, as well as co-producer Rosario Dawson, and the production house focuses on digital projects to amplify grassroots’ movements. A goal held dear to the cast and crew for Normal Ain’t Normal, and a message ringing clear to all who watch; communities hurting to live is not a normal meant to be upheld. The partnership between Offside, Iturriaga and Healey remains dynamic and robust. With the inclusion of Dawson, the powerhouse team brings to life a poignant commentary on the pandemic, without being insensitive to those of us still processing the trauma of a worldwide event. A quick to consume series that all should see, with beautiful direction, powerful acting, and genuine writing allowing the heart of the series to resonate in viewers’ for time to come.

 

September 22, 2022 0 comments
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Gili Yalo
MusicThe Latest

A Night in Review: Value Culture Presents at The Chapel: Gili Yalo, Kosha Dillz, Noa Zimmerman

by Ramya Kuppa August 16, 2021
written by Ramya Kuppa

Value Culture, a non-profit organization looking to connect people back to their communities & internal philanthropy, brought together the San Francisco community for a moment of musical bliss on Wednesday August 11th. Hosted at The Chapel, a former chapel turned into venue, presented on the outdoor stage in San Francisco, attendees were transported around the world in a cozy corner of the city. The lineup for the night consisted of indie folk singer/songwriter Noa Zimmerman, a young artist hailing from San Francisco who opened the night with soft melodies and a voice so gentle but sure that felt as if the listener was being cradled in a warm spring day. Sharing personal stories in between each song, including her astrophysicist friend’s practical feedback for the more magical elements in her song “The River”, from her latest album Indus. The personal anecdotes and gentle conversation with the audience helped welcome attendees into the opening of the night. More of her music can be found various music platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc along with more information on her Foundation and music from her albums on her website.

As Noa finished up her set, Dj Beatific began to set up to carry the night into a more hip hop atmosphere with remixes of hits from both the 90s and 00’s setting the mood for the pumped up performance of New Yorker rapper Kosha Dillz. Bringing over New York energy Rami Matan Even-Esh, aka Kosha Dillz, combines his personal feelings surrounding the world, politics, and his Jewish roots and much more through woven rap with more old school hip hop beats. He, alongside DJ Beatific, took the audience through some of his hits and more recent work that allowed him to share his emotional journey through the pandemic. Definitely taking on the role of stage hype man and main performer Kosha Dillz charmed the crowd with his charisma, witty conversations with the audience, and even a little heckling here and there. Although the crowd may not have been his usual rap listening demographic, he interacted with everyone throughout the night to keep them amped up. He set up the stage and easily transitioned the night into the main event’s hands, Gili Yalo.

Gili Yalo is an Ethiopian born musician who found his bearings and ties back to Ethiopian culture after an emotional life starting from coming to Israel with his family as refugees during Operation Moses. Much of Gili’s history talks on the difficulties of growing up as an Ethiopian man in Israel during a time when society wasn’t so keen on having neighbors so different share space with them. He has often shared in interviews how childhood stories and personal dealings with racism molded him to come to terms with the feelings of knowing and owning his Ethiopian history, roots, and blood. Pouring these sentiments into his music, Gili Yalo creates a new world of music taking inspiration from Jazz, Funk, and Blues genre sounds but tying together the haunting nature of Ethiopian scales, which are pentatonic. However the music is lively and incorporates Yalo’s feelings of music in Ethiopia being a way of life and not just dreams of being on stage. This was incredibly apparent in the strong and overwhelming power Gili Yalo brought to the stage. As he shared some of his hits like “Sew Lesew” and “Selam” the audience is transported into this mystical world that is so new and so nostalgic at the same time, especially for other immigrants. To be able to cross beyond the barrier of language and pull people from all walks into a new music, whether it be for the instrumentals or the hypnotizing pull of the vocals, is no easy feat and Gili Yalo beautifully achieves that. Gili’s music is available on popular music sites such as Spotify, ITunes, Apple Music, etc and his most recent album Made in Amharica is a musical journey that everyone genuinely needs to embark on.

Photos from Value Culture showcase with pictures of the performers

Noa Zimmerman: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

DJ Beatific: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Kosha Dillz: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Kosha Dillz: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Gili Yalo: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Gili Yalo: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Gili Yalo & Kosha Dillz: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Gili Yalo & Kosha Dillz: Photos taken by Misha Vladimirskiy

Overall the night was an immense success for both the audience and for event coordinator Adam Swig who created Value Culture. Truly we do not need to be from the one same culture to share a bond with so many other paths our fellow humans take. Adam’s goals are embedded within his organization and Value Culture brought together the community in San Francisco to remind us just how connected we can all be thanks to music.

August 16, 2021 0 comments
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EntertainmentFilmThe Latest

On The Scene: ‘We Are The Dream: The Kids of The Oakland’ MLK Oratorical Fest Premiere

by Ramya Kuppa February 14, 2020
written by Ramya Kuppa

On February 11th, HBO screened “WE ARE THE DREAM: THE KIDS OF THE OAKLAND MLK ORATORICAL FEST” under the historical roof of the Fox Theater in Oakland.

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February 14, 2020 0 comments
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EntertainmentFilmThe Latest

Film Review: ‘The World Before Your Feet’

by Ramya Kuppa November 21, 2018
written by Ramya Kuppa

Tom Hanks ran across America in Forrest Gump, amassing a massive following genuinely interested in asking his character why despite the lack thereof and this scene has left many viewers to wonder what’s the logic behind this kind of fascination.

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November 21, 2018 0 comments
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EntertainmentFilmThe Latest

DOC NYC Film Review: ‘To Kid or Not to Kid’

by Ramya Kuppa November 12, 2018
written by Ramya Kuppa

Marriage and children are the fundamental principles for life, or at least that’s the argument the traditional archetype of the world holds onto.

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November 12, 2018 0 comments
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ArtLifestyleThe Latest

Building Blocks: The Visual Art Piece

by Ramya Kuppa October 23, 2018
written by Ramya Kuppa

Professional “9-5” by day, passionate creative by night; this is the superhero lifestyle of many artists, especially in the Bay Area.

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October 23, 2018 0 comments
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EventsLifestyleThe Latest

On The Scene: ‘Oakland Undiluted’ Is Crafting the Future of Oakland’s Bar Community

by Ramya Kuppa October 6, 2018
written by Ramya Kuppa

Oakland Cocktail Week is a Bay Area favorite event, promoting patrons to travel through the lively bar scene of Oakland, California.

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October 6, 2018 0 comments
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EventsFilm

Cast Talks ‘The Man Who Knew Infinity’ At TFF 2016

by Ramya Kuppa April 23, 2016
written by Ramya Kuppa

The inner workings of a mathematics genius is a tale many may step away from, but Matthew Brown sought out the audience with beautiful cinematography along with the help of a passionate cast and crew to bring to life the story of Srinivasa Ramanujan. 

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April 23, 2016 0 comments
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Film

First Look at ‘Back in the Day’

by Ramya Kuppa April 3, 2016
written by Ramya Kuppa

The pursuit of better opportunities and the escape from a restricting town, is embodied in the tale of the rise of Brooklyn boxer Anthony Rodriguez, in the new gritty film Back in the Day.

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April 3, 2016 0 comments
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TV

Exclusive: Erica Ash Talk ‘Survivor’s Remorse’ & More

by Ramya Kuppa April 3, 2016
written by Ramya Kuppa

The Knockturnal was able to chat with the multitalented Erica Ash who strives to bring the unique aspects of life into her characters, especially into her most recent one from hit show “Survivor’s Remorse.”

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April 3, 2016 0 comments
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Diana Ross defines an icon. A national treasure w Diana Ross defines an icon.  A national treasure with a magnificent legacy that has changed the course of music history and popular culture. Get ready for an incredible night at the Hollywood Bowl on July 24 +25. We’ve teamed up with #HollywoodBowl and #LAPhil for a ticket giveaway! This is a show you won’t want to miss! 

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Sweet as “Candy,” and as high as an “Elevato Sweet as “Candy,” and as high as an “Elevator…” 🍬

On July 6th, at the iconic Kia Forum in Los Angeles, the beloved Korean idol @baekhyunee_exo took the stage for the last U.S. stop of his first ever solo tour under his own label, @inb100_official. ✨

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Macy’s iconic @macys Fourth of July Fireworks lit up the night sky over the Brooklyn Bridge in a dazzling display of light, sound, and celebration. 

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@lorde “Virgin” is more than an album — it’s an aural snapshot of an artist on the brink of redefining pop music. Step inside Lorde’s world, with us. 🎧🩻

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/virgin-an-x-ray-of-lordes-sonic-arrival/

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Meet @dominiquethorne , the rising star behind “ Meet @dominiquethorne , the rising star behind “Ironheart”, @marvelstudios newest @disneyplus show. From Wakanda to a tech-powered hero, she shares the journey, challenges, and excitement of suiting up as Riri Williams. Get ready for a fresh take on heroism! 🔥💥

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/dominique-thorne-talks-new-marvel-tv-show-ironheart-on-disney/

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Taron Egerton’s range is unreal, and in his late Taron Egerton’s range is unreal, and in his latest project, he’s turning up the heat, literally! We chatted with him for Smoke at @tribeca! 💨🔥
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Anna Chlumsky talks working with Dennis Lehane (an Anna Chlumsky talks working with Dennis Lehane (and real fire!) at the world premiere of Smoke on @appletv @tribeca!
The Future of Black Music is NOW! 🎶🎵🎤 We The Future of Black Music is NOW! 🎶🎵🎤

We got the chance to profile 5 amazing new artist and, just know, BLACK music is in great hands!

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Detroit, don’t miss out! Come experience the Future of Black Music live! 🎧🎸🥁🎹🎺🎻

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Cutting-edge scares, killer dance moves, and AI ch Cutting-edge scares, killer dance moves, and AI chaos 💃🤖
@m3gan 2.0 is the wild ride your summer needed. Read our full take! 

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/m3gan-2-0-is-ridiculous-over-the-top-fun-but-also-poses-important-questions-about-ai/

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Mini fashion moments, major throwback energy 👛 Mini fashion moments, major throwback energy 👛
@shopcider x @pollypocket took over @alfred with tiny accessories, buttery croissants, and all the Y2K feels 💅☕

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☀️Summer just kicked off with @dearsummerfesti ☀️Summer just kicked off with @dearsummerfestival. The HBCU kickback inspired festival that grew from a cultural campus phenomenon into becoming the latest and fastest-growing black-owned music festival. 🔥

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/inside-dear-summer-festival-the-black-owned-festival-gaining-national-momentum-built-by-hbcu-alumni/

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@tydollasign takes Tribeca. 🎥 The artist premie @tydollasign takes Tribeca. 🎥
The artist premiered his powerful new doc ‘Still Free TC’—a raw, emotional follow-up to his 2015 album—spotlighting family, justice, and legacy.
10 years later, the message still hits.

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/ty-dolla-ign-premieres-still-free-tc-documentary-at-tribeca-film-festival/

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ENTER TO WIN a pair of tickets to July Fourth Fire ENTER TO WIN a pair of tickets to July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular with Earth, Wind & Fire at the Hollywood Bowl on July 2, 3, & 4th! Nine-time Grammy Award-winning icons and one of the best-selling artists of all - Earth, Wind & Fire brings their iconic and timeless catalog of music with hits like “September” and “Shining Star” for three thrilling nights of songs, fireworks and fun. If you don’t win the tickets…don’t worry we’ll have a 20% off code on select sections!
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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/squid-game-season-3-premieres-in-new-york/

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@f1movie crew makes a pitstop in NYC for their wor @f1movie crew makes a pitstop in NYC for their world premiere of their film “F1 The Movie” in Times Square and at Radio City Music Hall. 🏎️💨
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“Love doesn’t always disappear—it just chang “Love doesn’t always disappear—it just changes shape.” 🎶
In our exclusive interview, @yourfavoritecolor opens up about vulnerability, emotional distance, and the story behind their newest single, “Less In Love.”
This one hits different. 🥹

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@saiebeauty Art of Glow pop-up bathed the city in @saiebeauty Art of Glow pop-up bathed the city in golden light with vintage lamps, curated cocktails, and radiant beauty moments—all in honor of the iconic Glowy Super Gel. A celebration of luminosity in every form. ✨

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@mileycyrus steps into her pop opera era with Some @mileycyrus steps into her pop opera era with Something Beautiful — a 55-minute visual album that blurs the line between music, film, and fantasy. Premiered at Tribeca, now playing on the biggest screen: herself. 🎬✨ 

🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/high-energy-higher-fashion-miley-cyruss-pop-opera-something-beautiful/

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