Netflix hosted a special screening of Indian director Zoya Akhtar’s newest release, The Archies at the famed Paris Theater in midtown Manhattan.
This week’s episode of Power Book III: Raising Kanan delivered yet another compelling installment, maintaining the series’ reputation for consistent writing and pacing. The intricate web of relationships and the characters’ evolving dynamics add depth to the narrative, making it an engaging watch. Especially one week after Howard killed Birch.
It’s an amazing time of the year to rejoice all of our efforts throughout the year. From the lovely fashion statements that allowed us to not only talk the talk but walk the walk
I caught the A uptown, not too far from my old stomping grounds for the 2023 Root 100 Gala event at The Apollo Theater.
The entire evening was legendary. One of the highlights was the performance by Jon Batiste, as a music lover I appreciate the way he uses his voice and plays the piano. We saw a preview of his new Documentary, which premiers on Netflix. The documentary shows his life after being the MD on the Stephen Colbert show. He shares how his wife’s health was also impacted by a condition that they had to face together. I won’t give away the spoiler, but keep an eye peeled for it. The Prince of Jazz was also one of the honorees that received an award. He stood up from the piano after an amazing performance medley, grabbed a horn and began to get the audience to sing together and participate, which was a nice moment. His showmanship and his ability to get us to sing together was a full circle moment for him as he recalls being on the Apollo stage as a 7-year-old who traveled in a van with his brothers from New Orleans to perform and won on the same stage. The Apollo is home to him and it was a wonderful moment.
Deborah Roberts and Al Rocker were also honorees. Al Rocker is from Canarsie, Brooklyn and recalls his earlier days that led him to where he is now. Similarly, Deborah Roberts spoke about becoming a wife, and a mother, and how she always saw herself doing what she is doing now. These 2 African Americans have shared their lives, health journeys, and energy with us for so many years. The ROOT 100 did a phenomenal job by focusing on all the great achievements and sharing their criteria for how the list is made. In addition to having a social media presence and followers, other aspects such as Influence, Substance, and Reach are all calculated. The beauty of this to me as both an attendee and a writer is, that it is not exclusive to just celebrity. Any African American who can utilize social media and does the work that uplifts people can be a contender. This means we all can be great and should aspire to be like the 100 honorees. As we close out 2023, the new year provides an opportunity for any or all of us to contribute to black news by becoming solution-oriented. There is much work to be done and it’s refreshing to know that not all jobs are glamorous if you have the intent and do the work organizations like The Root will be your support.
In this space of awareness, my new perspective on myself as a writer is that it’s now my responsibility to amplify black stories and The Root 100 Gala made me both grateful and fortunate to be in attendance. Congrats to all honored.
For one legendary night, The Root—the foremost digital media publisher covering Black news and Black views—took over the mainstage of the Apollo for a star-studded evening of comedy, music, and inspiring speeches celebrating the Root 100 honorees.
The Root 100 is an annual ranking of Black Americans who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for the next generation.
Attendees included host Roy Wood Jr. (‘The Daily Show’) and honorees Al Roker (‘TODAY’), Deborah Roberts (‘20/20’), Misty Copeland (ballerina), Leslie Odom Jr. (‘Hamilton’), Nate Burleson (‘CBS Mornings’), Doug E. Fresh (rapper and nonprofit founder), Dr. Olajide Williams (nonprofit founder), Jon Batiste (multihyphenate), Fani Willis (District Attorney of Fulton County, GA), Karine Jean-Pierre (White House press secretary), DeMarco Morgan (broadcast journalist), LaChanze (multihyphenate), Abby Phillip (CNN), Melonie Parker (Google), Danyel Surrency Jones (Amazon), Brandice Daniel and (HaDaniel and Shion Row), Jamie Harrison (DNC Chair), Racquel Ode (HSBC Bank USA), Nikole Hannah- Jones (journalist/author), Adjoa B. Asamoah (influencer), Dr. Oni Blackstock (entrepreneur), and Dr. UchéBlackstock (founder and author). Also in attendance were special guests Don Lemon, Tim Malone, Hannibal Burress, Sabrina Greenlee, Jason Lee, PaperBoy The Prince, Brandee Younger, Bevy Smith, Irreversible Entanglements, Erica Lowe, Adenike Olanrewaju, Thysha Shabazz, Dr. Jasper Brewster, Dr. Jeff Gardere, Agnes Tshimbombo, Ahmed Gallab, Kristal Brent Zook, and Editor-in-Chief of The Root, Tatsha Robertson.
Popeyes hosted an event at Lavan 641, located in New York City to celebrate the launch of their newly introduced wings platform.
The new series Bookie is now streaming on Max.
Bookie is a new comedy series that follows longtime bookie Danny (Sebastian Maniscalco) and his best friend Ray (Omar J. Dorsey) as they collect bets, and try to keep their gambling business afloat in Los Angeles. Cast also includes Vanessa Ferlito, Jorge Garcia, Andrea Anders and Maxim Swinton, with appearances from Charlie Sheen, Ray Romano and Angus T. Jones. The series is created by Chuck Lorre and Nick Bakay.
The Knockturnal recently interviewed Omar and Sebastian about the series. They told us about the origin of this show, working with the creators and finding chemistry with their co-stars. Following his audition, Omar showed up for his chemistry test with Sebastian, he told us, “we were knocking it out of the park…throwing it back and forth with the jokes and it felt really good and it just felt like we were a team.” Sebastian was already signed up to star in this show and he told us about finding his screen partner, “we met Omar at the screen test, he was the guy. He had a swagger about him.” From the first days of filming to wrapping this series the guys knew they had created an extremely funny show. Sabastian told us, “it’s digestible comedy, it’s quick, it’s clever. You get to see a great cast, a collaboration of some really, really great talent.”
Watch Bookie now on Max with new episodes on Thursdays.
NFL star Lawrence Cager (#83 on the New York Giants) seamlessly transitions into the world of modeling while maintaining his illustrious football career, leveraging his interests in entertainment and fashion with his recent signage to Summit Models Management.
Beverly Hills, CA – An intimate luncheon was held at the renowned Crustacean restaurant, acclaimed director Carl Joseph E. Papa toasted to his entry into the 96th Academy Awards for his astonishing film, “The Missing.” The exclusive event, which unfolded on December 2, became a celebration of Papa’s cinematic achievements and a prelude to the upcoming recognition at the Oscars.
Crustacean, known for its fusion of Vietnamese flavors and upscale ambiance, set the stage for an afternoon filled with gastronomic delights and the exchange of creative insights. The restaurant, nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, provided the perfect backdrop for industry insiders and supporters to come together and honor Papa’s accomplishments.
“The Missing,” a poignant film that explores themes of loss and redemption, has garnered widespread acclaim for its storytelling and cinematic prowess. With its selection as the Philippines’ official entry to the 96th Academy Awards, the luncheon at Crustacean became a pivotal moment for Papa and his team to reflect on the journey leading up to this prestigious recognition.
The luncheon commenced with guests praising Papa as he made his way into the table, expressing their overwhelming support and praise for his film. Attendees were treated to a delectable menu curated by Crustacean’s culinary experts, featuring signature dishes that blended traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern twist.
As plates were shared and conversations flowed, the atmosphere at Crustacean echoed with the excitement surrounding “The Missing” and its prospects at the upcoming Oscars. Guests had the opportunity to engage with Papa, gaining insights into the creative process behind the film and the challenges faced in bringing such a powerful narrative to the screen.
The luncheon served as a platform for networking, collaboration, and the forging of connections that could potentially shape the future of Filipino cinema.
As for the film itself, it screams phenomena written all over it. For 90 minutes you can delve into the world of ‘The Missing’ as the film emerges you into a cinematic marvel. It defies all constraints with a team of 90 animators who conjured its mesmerizing visuals for a year and seven months and the filming with actors which only took four days. With a tapestry of drama, sci-fi, and animation, the film casts a spell with its captivating narrative and expressive protagonist, Eric. Despite lacking a mouth, Eric’s silent expressions convey the depth of his emotions as he grapples with the trauma of his past. The story unfolds when a concerned call from his mother, Rosalinda, sets Eric and his co-worker Carlo on a journey to uncover the mystery of his missing Uncle Rogelio, only to discover a tragedy that shatters Eric’s already fragile world.
At its core, “The Missing” is an exploration of resilience and recovery in the face of unspeakable tragedy. Eric’s silence, a result of childhood trauma, becomes a powerful symbol of the struggles many endure in coping with mental and emotional distress. The film delicately portrays the darkest moments of human experience, revealing how love, support, and inner strength can guide one from the shadows of despair to a gradual rediscovery of self.
As the luncheon concluded, attendees left with a sense of anticipation for the 96th Academy Awards and a deeper appreciation for the artistry of Carl Joseph E. Papa. The event at Crustacean not only celebrated a talented filmmaker but also highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting diverse voices in the world of cinema.
Click on this reel to watch a visual recap of the luncheon!
In the dimly lit elegance of Lincoln Center, on Thursday, November 30th. Ava DuVernay’s latest cinematic masterpiece Origin premiered featuring an ensemble cast including Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Jon Bernthal, Niecy Nash-Betts, Emily Yancy, Finn Wittrock, Victoria Pedretti, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Isha Carlos Blaaker, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Connie Nielsen, Blair Underwood, Nick Offerman, Stephanie March, and Myles Frost, with an original song by Stan Walker. Origin is a cinematic adaptation of Isabel Wilkerson’s New York Times best-seller “Caste.” It delves into the mysteries of history, peeling away the superficial layers of racial discord to uncover universal core issues.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor delivers a compelling portrayal of Pulitzer Prize-winner Isabel Wilkerson, leading us through an intimate odyssey of grief, revelation, and reflection.
Origin skillfully draws parallels between past atrocities and the harsh realities of contemporary politics, caste, and experiences both on a domestic and international scale. From the untouchables in India to the shackles of American slavery, the film fearlessly confronts the echoes of Jim Crow laws and the haunting specter of Nazi atrocities during the Holocaust.
NYC, NY – 11/30/23 -ORIGIN New York Premiere
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– PICTURED: Ava DuVernay and Niecy Nash-Betts
– PHOTO by: Dave Allocca / StarPix
– Location: Alice Tully Hall
The film’s strength and brilliance lie in its capacity to forge human connections. It explores the shared experiences of loss, love, friendship, and community, affirming that, beyond prejudices and artificial divisions, we are bound together by the common threads of our existence. DuVernay’s artistry shines not just in bringing a best-seller to life but also in sculpting the narrative to be accessible and relatable to all.
As the credits rolled, the audience, myself included, was left in tears and awe, resulting in a thunderous standing ovation that resonated through the theater.
Following the cinematic adventure was a captivating Q&A session, providing a glimpse into the minds behind this masterpiece.
Panel Moderator: Of all the possibilities, what drew you to this particular story?
Ava DuVernay: I read the book the first time, I read it, but I didn’t really get it, the second time I started to get deeper into it and by the third time I read it I felt I wanna talk to everyone about this and I wish everyone knew, the ideas we can dissect and play with and test it and try it out and see if there’s a new language, to talk about the things that ale us. So it really came from a desire to share that information similar to 13 found information wanted to share and really try to figure out the way to catalyze the ideas that excite me, and interest me and put them in form crafted in a way that other people would be willing to talk to me about it. The idea here was can I do it in a way that wasn’t a documentary that was the big puzzle. Could I find a way to make it a story that had human emotion so that you could see the ideas of collective memory and personal memory running side by side and go deeper into the story and that was the puzzle for me.
Aunjanue Ellis Taylor: For me, I was aware of the book but I had not read it. I had read Warmth of Other Suns the other brilliant book led by Isabel Wilkerson and what I gleaned from what Ms. Wilkerson did, I just knew the ideas she was proffering was something that could transform how we speak about how we are in this country, and then finding out that Ava DuVernay how I feel is a freedom fighter who poses as a director I just wanted to be apart, I wanted to be a soldier in this and so I wanted to so badly be in it, that I wanted her to say yes and I’m glad that she did.
Jonathan Bernthal: For me, I flew down to Savannah and begged Ava to put me in the movie before I knew the script I just really wanted to work with her. There are parts of Isabel’s book that I read that aligned with something that I felt I’ve always felt or thought but it’s never been articulated and I could never put a finger on it and It made me think it made me feel it left me with so much hope so I desperately wanted to be apart of it as you see the journey that Isabel went on was singular it was a mission with no stone unturned and when I got to know Ava I see the why that she fights and I see the way that she’s on a mission, she’s doing this and that she’s unstoppable and she’s a force so man this woman is on a mission I’ve worked with Aunjanue before I think she’s one of a kind and I think she’s doing something that no one else does and I wanted to be in service of three unbelievable, powerful incredible women.
Niecy Nash-Betts: What drew me to this movie was friendship and love. Ava called and I answered. And she said have you read this book and I said girl not yet and she said well I wrote this part with you in mind and I said oh yea She said but I know you can’t do it because you’re doing a full-time job so. I said here’s what I can do. I can help you think of somebody else who can do it so I began sending her names of people and everybody she rejected no, no, no. She said my problem is… I’ve only ever seen you in my mind but I know it’s not gonna work because of your schedule so then I said friend did you pray about it she said nah I said we got started there, and God answered our prayers and my full-time job allowed me to get off a little early at the end of the week so that I could fly to Savannah but I didn’t have any days off I would go then fly back and I will tell you this is the most beautiful piece of art I have ever been apart of.
Paul Garnes: The conversations we had about it, she was able to add many of those conversations into the movie. Things that we all talked about the communication, the differences, the things that were alike, humanity, it was a true blessing to watch this process from the kernel of an idea of taking a book into a movie to now being here tonight.
Stan Walker: It kinda just happened quickly. Long story short Ava sent the film to me and I watched it on my phone and I cried while waiting for my wife, and because I couldn’t wait for her and she got annoyed at me so we watched it again and I cried again! but it just moved me so much because I saw a little me in there, I saw my people in there, I saw similar stories that drew me in. I felt like I had something to say, and with the song that I was blessed to be able to do was a response to how I was feeling and how it made me feel. I feel like the song was birthed out of wanting to give hope and empower people to take back their identity and culture because we deserve that.
As the Q & A Concluded it was realized that the film transcends its role as mere entertainment; but it becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of our shared humanity, leaving a mark on all fortunate enough to witness its brilliance. Tickets are now available for one-week special engagements in LA (AMC Century City) and NY (AMC Lincoln Square) starting December 8th. In select theaters on January 19th, 2024.
Venice, California, transformed into a haunting labyrinth on November 28th as Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment and 20th Century Studios conjured the spirits for the Blu-ray and DVD release of “A Haunting in Venice.” The air was thick with mystery, and the event promised an immersive experience that mirrored the eerie charm of the film.
Upon arriving, attendees were welcomed with various activities that transported them to the mystical canals of Venice. Masked characters of the film lingered around the house as guests walked about. It made me feel like I was at a haunted house during Halloween; it had peak spooky vibes. Guests tested their wits about the film during a trivia battle on the second floor. Appetizers were served throughout the evening that gave us a taste of Italy.
A highlight of the evening was the Seance Room, where Medium Christina Engalhardt attempted to bridge the gap between the living and the spirit world. The ethereal atmosphere heightened the suspense as attendees eagerly anticipated what would happen once they stepped into the room. Each guest who walked in had the chance to have a tarot card reading and get a glimpse into their spiritual self.
One of the most captivating elements of the evening for me was the Typewriter Poets, perched on the rooftop, creating personalized poems for attendees. As the cool night breeze whispered through the canals of Venice, guests could capture the essence of the spooky night with a unique poem to take away – a haunting memento from an unforgettable evening.
The event was a perfect marriage of theme and execution, embracing the eerie ambiance of the film. From watching the movie in theaters to experiencing this one-night activation, it was a unique, thoughtfully executed experience. With a mix of spine-tingling activities, engaging trivia, and the personal touch of a typewriter poet, it was an immersive celebration that transported guests to the haunting beauty of Venice. “A Haunting in Venice” left its mark as the moon glowed over the canals.
Check out our reel of the night here.