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Kings From Queens

by Abigail Amengual
written by Abigail Amengual

Last week, I attended the RUN DMC Kings From Queens premiere. The 3 part docuseries now streaming on Peacock. It takes you back to 1983 when three kids from Queens had a dream of having their music played on the local radio. What they accomplished was so much more.Run-DMC is recognized as one of the most influential groups in the history of hip-hop culture and especially one of the most famous hip-hop acts of the 1980s. The group was among the first to highlight the importance of the MC and DJ relationship.  In this series, you will see all the ups and downs, the sacrifices, and the influence that made RUN DMC. You also will hear from hip-hop legends, such as Eminem, LL Cool J, Jay Z, Nas, and many more, how RUN DMC inspired and influenced them in their careers.  Their unique take on combining two genres of music, hip hop, and rock, which tore down racial barriers, made them international stars and fashion leaders of the ’80s. After a series of  turmoil events and  obstacles  including the murder of  DJ Jam Master Jay. Rev Run and DMC reunite to tell their story and celebrate the genre of music they established.

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EntertainmentEventsEventsThe Latest

Unveiling the Magic: A Day at Disneyland

by Ashley Lopez
written by Ashley Lopez

Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, California – February 5, 2024

Invited by the enchantment of Disneyland Resort, we embarked on a journey through the latest wonders of the park at the exclusive “We Came to Play” event. With a hopper ticket in hand, promising access to the park’s latest offerings, our day was destined for adventure and delight.

Warriors of Wakanda: Disciplines of the Dora Milaje

Our journey commenced with the exhilarating “Warriors of Wakanda: Disciplines of the Dora Milaje” experience. Guests were immediately immersed in the rich culture and traditions the legendary Wakandan warriors, the Dora Milaje had to offer. As participants stepped into this interactive experience, they found themselves transported to the heart of Wakanda, where they were greeted by the fierce and noble guardians of the kingdom. Through a series of engaging activities and challenges, guests of all ages had the opportunity to train alongside the Dora Milaje, honing their skills in combat, strategy, and teamwork. Led by skilled instructors, visitors embraced the values of courage, honor, and unity that define the warrior spirit of Wakanda. From learning traditional battle techniques to mastering the art of self-discipline, each moment of the experience was designed to inspire confidence and empowerment in every participant. With its blend of storytelling, physical activity, and immersive theming, “Warriors of Wakanda” left a lasting impression, reminding guests of the indomitable strength and resilience found within us all.

San Fransokyo Square

Next on our itinerary was the newly reimagined land of San Fransokyo Square, inspired by Disney’s acclaimed film “Big Hero 6.” Augmented with the genius of Hiro Hamada and the lovable Baymax, this futuristic fusion of San Francisco and Tokyo offered an immersive encounter with beloved characters, delectable cuisine, and exclusive merchandise, truly enchanting visitors with its innovative charm. Pacific Wharf has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as San Fransokyo Square, a vibrant fusion of two iconic cities – San Francisco and Tokyo. Inspired by Disney’s Academy Award-winning film “Big Hero 6,” this reimagined area invites guests to step into the not-too-distant future, where the charm of San Francisco merges seamlessly with the energy of Tokyo. As visitors wander through the streets of San Fransokyo Square, they are greeted by the sights and sounds of bustling city life, with towering skyscrapers and neon signs illuminating the skyline. One of the highlights of this new district is the opportunity to interact with beloved characters from the film, including the ingenious Hiro Hamada and his lovable healthcare companion, Baymax. Guests can embark on thrilling adventures with these characters, engaging in exciting meet-and-greet opportunities and immersive storytelling experiences. Additionally, San Fransokyo Square boasts a tantalizing array of culinary delights, with food carts and eateries offering a fusion of flavors from both San Francisco and Tokyo. From savory street food to delectable desserts, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And of course, no visit to San Fransokyo Square would be complete without perusing the selection of “Big Hero 6” merchandise, where guests can find everything from plush toys to stylish apparel, allowing them to take a piece of the magic home with them. With its blend of thrilling attractions, mouthwatering cuisine, and immersive theming, San Fransokyo Square promises an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.

Paradise Garden Grill

Our culinary journey led us to Paradise Garden Grill, where the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine harmonized with the festivities of Lunar New Year. Indulging in Korean-style BBQ chicken, served with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled cucumber, we savored every bite of this delectable dish, a testament to the park’s commitment to culinary excellence and cultural celebration. Paradise Garden Grill has evolved into a culinary destination that not only tantalizes taste buds but also celebrates cultural festivities with its ever-evolving menu. Stepping into this vibrant eatery, guests are greeted by the aroma of flavorful eats, which have long been a hallmark of Paradise Garden Grill’s offerings. However, the restaurant has recently taken on a new dimension, embracing the spirit of Lunar New Year with a menu that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of the holiday. As visitors peruse the menu, they are delighted to discover a tantalizing array of Korean-inspired dishes, each crafted with care to celebrate the arrival of the new year. From savory Korean-style BBQ chicken served with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled cucumber to mouthwatering specialties like Shrimp Lo Mein Noodles and Pork Banh Mi Sandwich, there’s no shortage of delectable options to choose from. Each dish is expertly prepared using authentic ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that transports guests to the bustling streets of Seoul. And as guests savor their meals amidst the festive ambiance of Paradise Garden Grill, they can’t help but feel a sense of joy and camaraderie, as they come together to celebrate the start of a new lunar cycle. With its dedication to culinary excellence and commitment to cultural celebration, Paradise Garden Grill has truly become a destination where guests can savor the flavors of the world while creating memories to last a lifetime.

Downtown Disney

Venturing into Downtown Disney, we were greeted by a kaleidoscope of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences. Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is in the midst of an exciting transformation, bringing new vibrancy and energy to this iconic outdoor destination. Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern architecture in Southern California, the ongoing remodeling effort aims to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Disney magic. One of the highlights of this renovation is the west end area, which will feature a beautiful blend of vibrant color palettes, multicultural design elements, and patterns. This revitalized space will include an open lawn for relaxation and future events, complemented by live entertainment at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. Additionally, visitors can look forward to an expanded collection of dining and shopping options, including renowned establishments such as Din Tai Fung and Porto’s Bakery & Café. Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán will also bring his vision of Mexican cuisine to Paseo and Céntrico, adding to the diverse culinary offerings available in the district. With more than a dozen food and beverage locations offering unique settings and flavors, guests can indulge in everything from open-air cafés and craft cocktails to gourmet treats on-the-go and exquisite sit-down meals. And when it comes to shopping, Downtown Disney District has something for everyone, with a wide variety of specialty shops offering apparel, accessories, home décor, art, and collectibles. Whether strolling through the promenade to admire seasonal décor, listening to live music at the Kingpin stage, or exploring the latest offerings at World of Disney and Star Wars Trading Post, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found in Downtown Disney District. As the remodeling efforts continue to unfold, guests can look forward to even more enchanting experiences that capture the essence of Disney magic and create lasting memories for visitors of all ages. To stay updated with what is going on you can download the Disneyland App for any future updates.

New Pixar Place Hotel

Nestled within the magical confines of Disneyland Resort lies the enchanting Pixar Place Hotel, a haven where the whimsical worlds of Pixar come to life in every detail. As guests step through the grand entrance, they are greeted by a symphony of colors and characters that adorn the walls, each piece of artwork carefully curated to evoke the inspiration and humor found within every Pixar film. From the playful antics of Luca to the heartwarming adventures of Mei Mei and her gang, the hotel’s decor serves as a tribute to the beloved stories that have captured the hearts of audiences around the globe.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. At select times, the hotel lobby transforms into a stage for a soulful performance by none other than Joe Gardner from Pixar’s “Soul.” Amidst the deep purple walls adorned with drawings of jazz musicians and counselors from “The Great Before,” guests are transported to a world where music knows no bounds and the soul finds its truest expression.

For those seeking a moment of relaxation, the hotel’s upper deck offers a tranquil lounge area perfect for guests and the public alike to unwind and take in the sights. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, with the added bonus of being treated to a front-row seat for the park’s nightly fireworks display.

But perhaps the most delightful surprise awaits guests in the form of meet-and-greet opportunities with beloved Pixar characters, including the lovable Bing Bong from “Inside Out.” As visitors roam the halls of the hotel, they may encounter familiar faces at every turn, ready to greet them with open arms and share in the joy of their Pixar-inspired adventures.

With its blend of whimsy, wonder, and hospitality, the Pixar Place Hotel offers guests an immersive experience like no other, inviting them to step into the magical worlds of Pixar and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether indulging in the artistic splendor of the hotel’s decor, grooving to the soulful tunes of Joe Gardner, or meeting their favorite Pixar characters in person, visitors are sure to find themselves enchanted by the charm and allure of this one-of-a-kind destination.

Disneyland’s Returning: Magic Happens Parade

With the holiday season behind us, Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, is once again abuzz with excitement as the beloved “Magic Happens” parade makes its triumphant return. This spectacular parade, which celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic at the heart of so many Disney stories, captivates audiences with stunning floats, artistic costumes, and beloved Disney characters. From the classic Mickey Mouse gang to enchanting Disney princesses and fairy godmothers, the parade brings together a vibrant cast of characters to dazzle and delight guests of all ages. As the floats glide down the parade route, guests are transported into a world of wonder and imagination, where dreams come true and anything is possible. The return of the “Magic Happens” parade signals the beginning of a new chapter of excitement and adventure at Disneyland Park, promising unforgettable moments and cherished memories for visitors from near and far. Whether it’s the first time experiencing the magic or a return visit to relive cherished memories, the parade’s return is a celebration not to be missed.

World of Color – ONE

As the day drew to a close, we were spellbound by the mesmerizing spectacle of “World of Color – ONE.” Illuminating Paradise Bay with a symphony of fountains, lights, and music, this nighttime extravaganza conveyed a poignant message of courage and inspiration, leaving an indelible impression on all who beheld its splendor. As the sun sets over Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California, the stage is set for an awe-inspiring spectacle. This nighttime spectacular transports audiences on a journey of imagination and emotion, weaving together a tapestry of light, water, and music that mesmerizes the senses and stirs the soul. As the show unfolds, Paradise Bay is transformed into a dazzling canvas of fountains, lighting, lasers, fog, and flame effects, harmonized with songs and stories of courage, love, and inspiration. Each moment of the show is carefully choreographed to evoke a range of emotions, from joy and wonder to awe and nostalgia. As I watched the breathtaking scenes unfold before me, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and reverence for the powerful storytelling and breathtaking visuals that surrounded me. From the youngest children to the oldest adults, there was a palpable sense of excitement and awe in the air, as guests of all ages were swept away by the magic of the moment. But beyond its entertainment value, “World of Color – ONE” serves a deeper purpose, reminding us of the power of storytelling to unite us, inspire us, and bring about positive change in the world. Through its poignant messages of hope, courage, and perseverance, the show encourages us to be the change we wish to see, to embrace our differences, and to strive for a brighter tomorrow. As the final notes fade into the night sky, leaving behind a sense of wonder and possibility, it’s clear that “World of Color – ONE” is more than just a spectacle – it’s a testament to the enduring power of imagination, creativity, and the human spirit.

In conclusion, our sojourn at Disneyland’s “We Came to Play” event was a testament to the park’s enduring legacy of imagination and innovation. From interactive experiences to culinary delights, from captivating parades to awe-inspiring spectacles, Disneyland continues to enchant and inspire, inviting guests to embark on unforgettable journeys of magic and wonder.

Disneyland Resort you know how to make a guest’s dreams come true.

Want to see more? Check out our reel!

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EntertainmentEventsMusicThe Latest

Inside the Hits: GRAMMY Nominees Hit-Boy, Davido, D’Mile & Tay Keith Deconstruct Their Biggest Hits at BMI’s ‘HIWTS’

by Emma Salehi
written by Emma Salehi

GRAMMY Nominees Hit-Boy, Davido, D’Mile, and special guest Tay Keith joined BMI‘s How I Wrote That Song event in West Hollywood to dissect their most popular tracks from Leave The Door Open to Sicko Mode and spilled producer secrets and behind the scenes information.

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EntertainmentEventsMusicThe Latest

PATRÓN Tequila Raises a Toast to Hit-Boy’s 2024 Grammy Nomination at the Hip Hop Til Infinity Exhibit

by Parris Rose
written by Parris Rose

The highly anticipated Grammy Awards weekend full of events just wrapped and in a night filled with the best of hip hop and smooth sips of PATRÓN Tequila, the celebration was palpable at the Hip Hop Til Infinity immersive exhibit.

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EntertainmentEventsFilm

On The Scene: The New York Premiere of The Private Eye!

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

The Private Eye, Illusion Islands’ latest thriller, is a boatload of twists and turns that leads the viewer to question even their own judgment as it progresses. But to writer and director Jack Cook, at its very core, the film is a love story.

The mystery romance comedy thriller marks the feature directorial debut of Cook, and features Matt Rife in the lead role as Mort Madison, a private investigator whose life takes a downward spiral. The story focuses on the shifting perspective of Madison, who is hired by a mysterious woman named Michelle, played by Clare Grant. Michelle tasks Mort with spying on a man named David, who she claims to be her lover. But as Mort delves into the investigation, he finds himself falling for Michelle. In an unexpected turn of events, Mort decides that the only way to be with Michelle is to eliminate David from the equation. Viewers can look forward to a mind blowing twist as Mort’s pursuit of love takes an unexpected and thrilling path.

To pull off a film with so many twists and turns while also keeping the cadence of romance is no easy feet, yet Cook does so seamlessly, making the film one of a kind. On Friday, the cast gathered in New York City for the premiere of the film. In attendance was Cook, ELLIOT, Denzel Whitaker, Lexy Panterra, Charles Worth, Elijah Boothe , Eugenia Kuzmina, Eric Roberts, and many more. We chatted with the cast and crew about their experiences working on the film, check out the conversations below!

The Private Eye will be in select theaters on February 9th! Check out the trailer here!

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EventsFashion & BeautyLifestyleUncategorized

INITIO Parfums Privés Host Launch Party In NYC for Their Newest Scent Narcotic Delight

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

The recent launch party hosted by INITIO Parfums Privés at Lume Studios in Soho was an immersive and alluring experience, perfectly complementing the unveiling of their newest fragrance, Narcotic Delight. The venue, adorned with a red-hued room and carefully curated drinks, added to the evenings mystique, creating an atmosphere that was both chic and sexy. The music enhanced the aesthetic, elevating the sense of desire surrounding the experience.The strategic perfume placements, wall art & guests added an intentional touch to the event, with an elegant presence that avoided overdone extravagance settling instead for a bold and sophisticated ambiance that captivated every attendee’s senses.hedione

Narcotic Delight is a  sensual aphrodisiac with fragrance notes of cherry, vanilla, cognac, black and pink pepper, tobacco, & an overdose of hedione. Hedione, a versatile chemical compound widely used in the fragrance industry, adds a light and sweet floral scent. Recognized for its adaptability, hedione is a key ingredient in both feminine and masculine scents. INITIO Parfums Privés takes pride in crafting perfumes that transcend gender boundaries,  ensuring a beautiful fragrance for everyone.

The Carnal Blends collection, spearheaded by Narcotic Delight, introduces a sensory journey with fragrances like

As the night unfolded, INITIO Parfums, took a moment to express gratitude to the attendees. Reflecting on the brand’s journey since its launch in 2015, they congratulated their team on the event’s success and thanked the guests for their unwavering support. At the end of the night, guest were treated to a gift of their own Narcotic Delight perfume, everything from the detail in the packaging exuded elegance. 

As a global company INITIO Parfums Privés has successfully bridged heritage and modernity, embodying quality perfumery that honors the rich tradition of French fragrances while carving its niche in the global fragrance market. Their commitment to providing a luxurious and unique experience makes them a standout presence in the realm of niche luxury fragrances.

Narcotic Delight is available to purchase on their website, Saks, and other distribution partners.

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EntertainmentEventsFashion & BeautyLifestyleUncategorized

Celebrities Took to the Runway During the 8th Annual Blue Jacket Fashion Show

by Julia Mazza
written by Julia Mazza

On Thursday, February 1st, celebrities assembled at the 8th annual Blue Jacket Fashion Show, sponsored by Zero Prostate Cancer, Johnson & Johnson, and the Fashion Group Foundation. Models for the night included actors, news hosts, current and former athletes, reporters and journalists—even two Tony winners. 

(Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Blue Jacket Fashion Show)

The Blue Carpet Fashion show was founded by fashion designer Frederick Anderson as a platform to openly discuss prostate cancer. Throughout the day on Thursday, the Blue Jacket Initiative took to the streets to set up free testing and provide educational materials on prostate cancer across New York City. The organization is also raising funds for future prostate cancer testing resources and to support patients in need.

The event’s festivities began with a “blue carpet,” where the models of the night gave previews of what they would be wearing for the evening. Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award winning actor and singer Billy Porter was only on the blue carpet for mere seconds before rushing backstage to fetch his favorite piece of the outfit. He returned a moment later, accessorized with a Thom Brown bag.

Other special guests for the evening also assembled on the blue carpet, including journalist and talk show host Tamron Hall and actress Holly Robinson Peete. 

All of the models for the evening soon took to the runway to strut their stuff in their blue ensembles. Every model who participated, and the designers who dressed them, were as followed:

Billy Porter, dressed by Thom Browne

J. Harrison Ghee, dressed by Terry Singh

Rodney Peete, dressed by The Privilege

Marcus Samuelsson, dressed by The Privilege

Wilson Cruz, dressed by Arjona Collection

Luis Miranda, Jr., dressed by Talya Bendel x HAAS

Don Lemon, dressed by The Privilege

Nigel Barker, dressed by Ben Sherman

Alex Lundqvist, dressed by Stephen F

Young Paris, dressed by Arjona Collection

Eric West, dressed by AARC55

Les Trent (Inside Edition), dressed by Don Morphy

James Aguiar (Modern Luxury), dressed by jameAstyle X Fleur’d

Carlos Greer (Page Six & Extra TV), dressed by AKNVAS

Frank DiLella (NY1), dressed by Bruno Magli

Louis Finley (NY1), dressed by Levi’s

Jeremy Helligar (People Magazine), dressed by Elie Balleh

John Dias (WCBS-TV), dressed by Gustavo Moscoso

John Hill (Sirius XM), dressed by Don Morphy

Ty Hunter, dressed by Tommy Hilfiger

Brian Ceballo, dressed by POTRO

Don Hood, dressed by Magpies & Peacocks

Ty-Ron Mayes, dressed by BARABAS

Omar Hernandez, dressed by Gustavo Moscoso

Kris Bennett, dressed by Burkindy x Jahnkoy

Erik Bottcher (NYC Council Member), dressed by Carlos Campos

Dr. Brad Schaeffer, dressed by Elie Balleh

Phillip Bloch, dressed by AKNVAS

Mike Woods (Fox5 New York), dressed by SOU KUU (by THE NORTH FACE)

Richard Thomas (TAO Hospitality Group), dressed by Gustavo Moscoso

Dr. Ash Tewari (Johnson & Johnson spokesperson), dressed by Elie Balleh

Tyrone Brewer (President, U.S. Oncology, Johnson & Johnson), dressed by J.Mclaughlin

Robert Ginyard (Prostate Cancer Survivor and Zero Prostate Cancer spokesperson), dressed by J.Mclaughlin

 

To learn more about the Blue Jacket Fashion Show, and to place a donation to help their patient support and awareness efforts, you can visit their website here.

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EventsTV

On the Scene: NYC Premiere of Prime Video’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith 

by Bianca Brutus
written by Bianca Brutus

On Wednesday January 31, Prime Video held the premiere of their newest series Mr & Mrs Smith at Brooklyn’s Weylin venue. The premiere saw the screening of the pilot and an additional episode along with an after party. 

“Mr. & Mrs. Smith” stars Donald Glover as John and Maya Erskine as Jane. The two give up their average lives to become special agents but under the guise of being a married couple in NYC. The series is a modern adaptation of the famous 2005 film of the same name which originally starred Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. 

There were a number of actors who appeared in the series present at the screening including Eiza González and Michaela Coel. Billy Campbell, who is best known for his roles on “Dynasty” along with “Once and Again,” has a short stint in episode three.

Campbell  spoke with us about his character on the carpet saying, “It’s emotional. I had a very small part, but it’s like an arch. It’s a sweet little arch, but it’s a very emotional arch. And I don’t always have the pleasure of being able to do that.” 

The actor additionally raved over the chemistry between the two leads of the series; a sentiment felt by everyone on the carpet. Francesca Sloane, show runner and co-creator of the series, made a point that at the center of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” is romance between these two leads.

For anyone who is a fan of the original, this chemistry is far different than expected. In fact, the series doesn’t take much for its original material. Sloane said, “We completely started with a fresh canvas. We really first just wanted to make a story that made sense for the kind of creators that Donald and I are to tell a story, and it felt like something very unique.” 

Glover serves as co-creator, director, executive producer, and main lead of the project. It’s not surprising as the multifaceted creator often takes on a great deal on his projects such as his shows “Atlanta” and “Swarm.” As an established creative in his field, Glover admits, “Be surrounded by people you actually trust. People who you trust their taste. It’s not all about you being right. It’s about the piece.” Glover also makes reference to working with his creative partner Hiro Murai who has stood by him on multiple projects. 

Be sure to check out the remaining interviews on our Instagram page or below.

Following the screening, the after party occurred on the lower level of the venue. The space was decorated to fit the vibe of a series’ tone. With artwork that moved to reveal hidden secrets, and a machine that revealed if one was a low risk or high risk agent. Guests were also invited to indulge in cocktails suited for an spy as well.

We decided to have our martinis shaken, and stirred of course.

The night was truly excellent, and the series is definitely one to watch, not only for nostalgic purposes but for a refreshing take on the thriller genre.

Our review of the first few episodes of “Mr.& Mrs. Smith” is available now. The series is also available to stream on Prime Video.

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