Sundance Film Festival held its third annual “Cheers, Queers” event on Jan. 23, presented in partnership with Acura and co-hosted by IMDbPro.
Times Square has added two major players to its ever-evolving entertainment lineup.
Nicki Micheaux, RJ Cyler, and Freddie Gibbs spoke about the intensity and creative ambition behind Night Patrol.
During our conversation that took place last month, they all described the film as a bold and unconventional production that challenged them both physically and emotionally while offering audiences something unexpected.
Micheaux said the concept of making a vampire film set in the hood, with police officers woven into the story, immediately stood out to her as both daring and exciting. She described the project as provocative and said she is drawn to art that confronts audiences and pushes boundaries. Micheaux noted that Night Patrol marks her third collaboration with director Ryan Coogler, a creative partnership that began with his student thesis film. She said Coogler’s work has consistently been unflinching and in your face, from earlier projects centered on organ trafficking to later films that explored gritty, heightened worlds. For Micheaux, Night Patrol continued that tradition, requiring her to balance grounded, authentic performances with the fantastical elements of the genre. She added that this combination makes the film a thrilling experience for both actors and viewers, offering a wild but emotionally honest ride.
Cyler said the action driven nature of the film made being on set especially fun. He explained that the physical demands, including wire work, explosions, and blood soaked scenes, tapped into his sense of play and brought extra energy to his performance. While stunt doubles were part of the production, Cyler said Coogler trusted the cast to perform much of the action themselves in order to keep the performances feeling natural and uninterrupted. He pointed to moments like his character wearing a bomb vest as scenes that forced him to tap into a more intense mindset. Cyler added that the practical effects and the energy of his co stars, including Micheaux, helped fully immerse the cast in the world of the film and fueled their imagination throughout the shoot.
Gibbs described Night Patrol as one of the most action packed projects he has worked on, noting the constant movement and physicality required on set. He said working alongside performers like CM Punk added another layer of challenge, pushing him to stay sharp throughout the production. Gibbs said the film’s heavy use of blood, gore, and horror elements was a major draw for him creatively, calling the experience something he had long wanted to explore as an actor. He added that the role was a meaningful opportunity to expand his range, especially as he continues to build momentum following his recent appearance on Power Book IV: Force.
Fans of ‘The Night Manager’ have been captivated by Season 2 since its release on January 1st, and the buzz hasn’t slowed down. The season introduces a couple of new cast members, including Diego Calva as Teddy Dos Santos and Camila Morrone as Roxana Bolaños who bring fresh energy and complex dynamics to the story. Meanwhile, stars including Tom Hiddleston as Jonathan Pine and Olivia Coleman as Angela Burr return to the highly acclaimed series with their signature intensity, bringing depth, wit, and emotional stakes that keep viewers invested in every twist and turn.
Be prepared for spoilers ahead.
Early episodes showcase the newcomers weaving into the existing narrative, adding tension, intrigue, and unexpected twists that keep viewers hooked. From enigmatic figures to high-stakes antagonists, the additions enrich the series while challenging the main characters in surprising ways. With each episode, Season 2 proves it’s delivering both suspense and compelling performances that fans can’t stop talking about.
Calva lets The Knockturnal in on his role as Teddy Dos Santos, the new antagonist of Season 2. Teddy debuts as a dangerous Colombian arms-dealer who’s willing to get his way by any means necessary, bringing a chilling intensity to the show that promises to up the stakes for the main cast.
He tells The Knockturnal “I knew there was a way to play [Teddy Dos Santos] in an easy and cliché way. I’m Mexican and I”m playing a Mexican-Columbian drug lord. I think we’ve all seen that guy.” He explained, “So I tried to do something different and with the help of Georgi [Banks-Davies] we tried to build his character, not from the outside, more from the inside.”
Calva recalled his first assignment as Teddy, which was to find his inner-child, connecting to his trauma and “what he really wants”. It is revealed in the season that the infamous Columbian drug dealer is the son of Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie), and was hidden away in the South American country with his scandalous family. Teddy’s relationship with Roper was an estranged one, resulting in his notably emotionally distant and untrusting personality.
As Calva has become a big part of Season 2, he showcases Teddy’s cleverness to Jonathan Pine’s (Tom Hiddleston) suspicion of him. Calva explained, “There’s a lot of scenes with Tom, where I was kind of learning more about Teddy in the moment we were acting.” He describes the intensity of working alongside Hiddleston, noting that the British actor was often fully in focus while on set.
While fans have waited 10 years for Season 2, the theme of identity and deception, with lot’s of tension remains. Calva tells The Knockturnal, “You never know who is telling the truth. You never know who could you trust. But in the end, I think the core of ‘The Night Manager’ [is that] Jonathan Pine is still there. That’s the spirit, but with more salsa.”
The actor says that viewers can expect “sexy danger” from Teddy Dos Santos in the new season.
The Night Manager is now available on Amazon Prime.
The black carpet premiere of Moses the Black took place Tuesday, January 20 at the Pacific Design Center, bringing together film, faith, and culture for a powerful night centered on redemption and transformation. Industry guests, cast, creatives, and supporters gathered to celebrate the upcoming release ahead of its nationwide theatrical debut on January 30.
Photo credit: @jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with signature complimentary cocktails inspired by the film’s themes. A tequila-based cocktail titled The Light set the tone for the evening, alongside a vodka cocktail called The Sword and a mezcal cocktail named Saving Grace. Complimentary bites and cocktails were available throughout the premiere, creating an elevated yet intimate atmosphere that matched the film’s emotional weight. Following the screening, the celebration continued at the official after party at Rokusho LA, where guests enjoyed additional complimentary cocktails and a hand roll bar. The after party offered a relaxed setting for conversation, reflection, and celebration of the film’s message and creative achievement.
Moses the Black is written and directed by Yelena Popovic, who also serves as a producer on the film. The crime drama reimagines the story of the 4th-century saint St. Moses the Black within modern-day Chicago. The film follows Malik, played by Omar Epps, a former gang leader recently released from prison who finds himself torn between vengeance and spiritual awakening.
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
The cast includes Omar Epps, Wiz Khalifa, Quavo, Chukwudi Iwuji, Skilla Baby, Sambou “Bubba” Camara, and Deontay Wilder. The film is executive produced by Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television. With a soundtrack featuring Wiz Khalifa and Quavo, the film blends contemporary hip hop culture with themes of faith, accountability, and the possibility of change.
The premiere also drew a notable group of guest who came out in support. Attendees included Big Boy, actor Johnell Young, rapper D Smoke, Gianni Paolo, Kris Lofton, former USC Trojans and Pittsburgh Steelers star Troy Polamalu, and Leslie David Baker. Their presence added to the sense of community and cultural crossover that defined the evening.
From a personal standpoint, the film left a strong impression. I genuinely enjoyed the screening and admired the level of nuance throughout the story, particularly how it explored the idea that many people are shaped by their environments. Ultimately, Moses the Black is a film that asks viewers to slow down and sit with complexity. It does not rush its message or offer easy answers, but instead invites empathy by showing how environment, circumstance, and personal history shape the choices people make. The story balances faith and realism in a way that feels intentional, not preachy, and deeply human. It was also refreshing to see artists I have listened to for years, especially Wiz Khalifa and Skilla Baby, step into acting roles. Their performances felt natural, and it would be exciting to see both of them take on more film and television roles moving forward.
The story draws inspiration from the real-life journey of St. Moses the Black, an Ethiopian slave who rose to become a feared bandit leader before ultimately finding redemption. That historical foundation gives the film emotional depth while grounding its modern narrative in a story that continues to resonate today.
As the film heads toward its theatrical release on January 30, Moses the Black stands out as more than a crime drama. It is a meditation on accountability, grace, and the possibility of change, especially for those who come from environments where survival often comes before reflection. The premiere itself reflected that same spirit, bringing together creatives, cultural leaders, and community voices for a night rooted in intention and conversation. This is a film that lingers after the credits roll, encouraging viewers to consider not only who people are, but who they are still becoming.
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson
Last month, Jason Segel spoke exclusively to The Knockturnal about the third season of Apple TV smash hit series Shrinking. I was then able to chat with his incredible group of costars about each of their characters’ collective journeys and all of the favorite memories that they’ll take with them from this experience.
Call all Trekkies, Star Trek is back and better than ever!
Stars Chris Pratt, Kali Reis, Kylie Rogers and Chris Sullivan attended the premiere of Timur Bekmambetov’s new action thriller “Mercy” at AMC Lincoln Square on Monday.
Actor, comedian, and proud Californian Josh Meyers has been hitting the road (and the mic) as the new host of the California Now podcast — and what better way to celebrate than with Visit California at Wheelhouse in West Hollywood — one of LA’s most storied properties (formerly Bette Davis’ party villa).
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA: (L-R) Rembrandt Flores, host Josh Meyers, and Tyler Posey celebrate the “California Now” podcast with Visit California at Wheelhouse on Thursday, January 15th , 2026. Photo Credit: Jennifer Johnson
The intimate celebration brought together a crowd of travel insiders, creatives, and media tastemakers for an evening that felt equal parts Hollywood throwback and modern California cool. With its old-Hollywood backstory, lush courtyard, and legacy as a gathering place for bold personalities and glam soirees, Wheelhouse set the scene for a podcast rooted in storytelling, discovery, and a deep love of place.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA: Marcel Vigneron celebrates the “California Now” podcast with Visit California at Wheelhouse on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Photo Credit: Jennifer Johnson
Meyers took the floor to share his excitement about stepping into the host role, speaking candidly about his decades-long relationship with California and his enthusiasm for exploring more of the state through the podcast.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA: “California Now” podcast host Josh Meyers and wife McKenzie Meyers celebrates with Visit California at Wheelhouse on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Photo Credit: Jennifer Johnson
“Josh’s charisma, humor and genuine love of California make him a natural storyteller and the perfect host to carry the podcast into its next chapter,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “His energy and perspective will spark curiosity and inspire travelers to discover the Golden State in new and exciting ways.”
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA: (L-R) Marisa Hebert, Lauren Goldenberg, and Derek Warburton celebrate the “California Now” podcast with Visit California at Wheelhouse on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
This season, Meyers will swap stories with Michelin-starred chefs, trade laughs with celebrities, and dive deep with cultural tastemakers and local experts — all while spotlighting the places, people, and quirks that make California endlessly compelling. Expect insider tips, unexpected detours, and plenty of playful banter as Meyers explores both iconic destinations and under-the-radar gems.
The new season comes with some notable upgrades. For the first time, California Now will be available to watch on YouTube, giving fans a visual front-row seat to the conversations. Even better, three “On Location” episodes will take listeners (and viewers) out of the studio and into the wild — with episodes filmed along historic Route 66, at Mammoth Mountain, and in destinations preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA: Angelique Cabral celebrates the “California Now” podcast with Visit California at Wheelhouse on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Photo Credit: Jennifer Johnson
Listeners can catch up and tune in to new episodes, including:
- California Myths, Legends & Lore (Oct. 21, 2025)
- San Francisco Peninsula (Nov. 11, 2025)
- Route 66 Centennial (Dec. 2, 2025)
- How to See Live Shows (Jan. 27, 2026)
- Will Forte (Feb. 17, 2026)
- Mammoth Mountain (March 10, 2026)
- 2026 FIFA World Cup (April 21, 2026)
- Comic-Con with Kevin Smith (June 16, 2026)
ABOUT VISIT CALIFORNIA
Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs – in partnership with the state’s travel industry – that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. For more information about Visit California and for a free California Official State Visitor’s Guide, go to visitcalifornia.com. For story ideas, media information, downloadable images, video and more, go to media.visitcalifornia.com.
The world of Westeros descended upon Los Angeles with a bang!