They say that “behind every successful man is a woman” and that is definitely true for Elvis’ case.
During a press invited conference at New York Comic Con for The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Norman Reedus spoke candidly about the range of acting he has undertaken throughout this show compared to the main show when we asked him. Known for his iconic portrayal of Daryl Dixon in “The Walking Dead,” Reedus expressed his enthusiasm for embracing diverse characters and genres.
Norman Reedus, reflecting on expanding his range on his acting when we asked him, shared a glimpse into his thought process and motivation. As he discussed his enduring role as Daryl Dixon in “The Walking Dead,” he emphasized the personal and professional growth he has experienced over the years. Reedus candidly expressed his desire to evolve as an actor and explore new dimensions of character portrayal.
“I’m aging in real time and I’ve learned lots of lessons. I wanted to try to do something different. I spoke a lot about finding vulnerabilities in him (Daryl) and I don’t mind being the hero, I just don’t want to know that I am the hero,” said Reedus.
Reedus stressed the significance of working to earn character moments and commencing from a position of vulnerability. He aimed to genuinely capture Daryl Dixon’s challenging journey, where he grapples with both physical and emotional brokenness as he embarks on the next phase of his life. Additionally, Reedus underscored his intention to portray Daryl in a distinct manner, particularly in showcasing the character’s brighter moments, setting him apart from the main show.
“I wanted to earn the moments and I wanted to start low. And as he character, he’s broken when he gets there. He’s physically broken, and he’s finding himself again and becoming a man again in a different way.”
Norman Reedus opened up about a specific, pivotal moment in his acting career, which was the scenes he shared with Jeffrey Dean Morgan in Season 7, Episode “The Cell” of “The Walking Dead.” In these scenes, Reedus aimed to portray his character, Daryl Dixon, in a raw and unvarnished manner. He sought to strip Daryl down to his most vulnerable state, emphasizing the character’s brokenness and vulnerability. Reedus explained that the intention behind this approach was to create a compelling character arc in which Daryl could rebuild himself from the ground up, both emotionally and physically on The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.
“We did it with Negan in The Cell. I remember being the guy down here and trying to fight my way back up and when Negan is like, ‘what’s your name?’ And I don’t say Negan. That’s like a “fuck yeah” moment, you know? I wanted to be stripped down starting from zero.”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: A guest attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Saturday, October 7, 2023. Duggal Greenhouse, Brooklyn, New York. — Saturday morning rain showers fell hard and heavy in the borough of Brooklyn; but it didn’t stop the main event from happening on Flushing Avenue. The annual cultural mecca for Black and Brown creatives, CultureCon, opened its lines to the likes of designers, brand influencers, culture benders, film talents, small business owners, media press outlets and many more. CultureCon, founded in 2019, is the fastest growing conference and brings together creatives and changemakers of color that aim to elevate their social and professional networks. These bountiful creatives intend to make a mark on the culture and within the communities they serve. In an effort to keep the focus “community centered” the conference sets its sights on celebrating prominent and innovative voices leading the way. It is their hope to inspire attendees to make notable impacts in their respective lanes, creative causes and to become an infectious impact on the world at large, as a BIPOC creative-thought leader.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: A guest attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
This year’s CultureCon presented by Creative Collective included presenting partners: Max, Amex, Shea Moisture, Amazon PRIME, Freevee, Clinique, Google, Ciroc, Bullet Bourbon, Seedlip (Non Alcoholic Spirits), Patreon, Paramount (Content For Change), KickStarter, NBCUniversal,Spotify, Walmart, Tubi, School For Experiential Education in Design, The Startup Collection | Aveeno, Ben & Jerry’s, Coca Cola, LTK, Visible by Verizon, Dotdash Meredith, LCKR, Getty Images, Nielsen, TikTok, #CultureTags, NPR, and The Tillary Hotel- Brooklyn.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Simone Jordan, Laura Stylez and Jacob Lattimore speak on stage during CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
CultureCon encourages the creative collective body by honoring notable influencers, industry trailblazers, tastemakers and celebrities. The two day event featured panelists that discussed navigating and managing the pressures in the film and entertainment industries; obtaining careers in the growing field of tech and various degrees of corporate spaces. Other major topics offered insights on personal branding; overcoming the socio-economic factors that impede or inspire creativity; investments, crowdfunding for business and managing personal finances with financial gurus such as Financial Educator and New York Times Bestseller, Tiffany “the Budgetnista”; as well as discussions on maintaining self care while launching brands and building empires.
This year the 2023 CultureCon brought on a new facet to their ever growing pilgrimage, now including in its activation booths, a Creative Career Job Fair that allowed the attendees to meet one on one with recruiters from: Amazon Studios, Clinique, Max, NBCUniversal, Google, Walmart, Shea Moisture, and Kickstarter. Career hopefuls had the opportunities to provide or upload their digital resumes within the talent submission pool for further consideration and a chance to land their dream jobs.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Issa Rae speaks onstage during How to Find Your People Brand: American Express panel at the CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Day one of the CultureCon event included the prolific and legendary American Actress and Writer, Issa Rae (Insecure, Rap Sh!t, The Photograph, The Lovebirds, Barbie) discussed her organization, ColorCreative, and how it cultivated its initiative, the Find Your People Program (FYPP), to mentor aspiring creatives of color through an intensive creative program.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Issa Rae speaks onstage during How to Find Your People Brand: American Express panel at the CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Emmy-Award winning actor and rapper, Jharrel Jerome (When They See Us, Moonlight, Full Circle) sat down with podcast host and entrepreneur, Bimma Williams to share his creative process in music and his career journey. Sharing insights on “When They See Us” and providing more insight on his new album “I’m a Virgo”, inspired the crowd who remained engaged during his interview with Bima.
Actress and Film Producer, Marsai Martin (Blackish, Little, Fantasy Football), at the blossoming age of 18 years, took to the stage to share her newest venture as the global brand ambassador for Clinique and shared her creative evolution in beauty after partnering with the high-end beauty brand. Marsai spoke on her numerous achievements, multiple NAACP Image Awards, BET Awards, her historic role as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood, and founding her company Genius Entertainment.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Teyana Taylor and Eric Jones Jr. speak onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
This year’s CultureCon honoree, was the illustrious superstar, Teyana Taylor(A Thousand and One, Coming 2 America, The Breaks). The multihyphenate shared the stage in an intimate discussion with Emmy-Award winning journalist, Eric Jones, to discuss her incredible career and was rightfully presented with the CultureCon 2023 award by her mother and children. Teyana dazzled the crowd with her star studded aura. She handed out pearls of wisdom to the attendees; mentioning that her faith in God kept her strong in mind and spirit; and reminding us that the wait for our promise is actually our time of preparation for a great outcome and to learn to give ourselves flowers by being our own glade plugin; further exemplifying why she earned the right to be acclaimed as a cultural icon.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Ziwe speaks onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
TV host and internet icon, Ziwe closed day one with a hilarious conversation alongside, DeAndre Brown AKA The Corporate Baddie. “Black Friend: Essays,” and her journey from being an intern with big dreams to a certified boss in the midst of her dream career.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Lola Brooke speaks onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
On day one, I found myself richly inspired by panelist, Rap recording artist, Lola Brooke, who eagerly shared her love of performing on stage. The “Don’t Play With” lyricist lit up as she discussed that she knew in her heart she’d always wanted to perform; she said that before bed at night, she recalls falling asleep with music in her ears and dreaming that she was on stage. She expressed staying grounded and knowing that every decision that she’d made “fell on me” and that remaining centered was above all else, priority for her.
Day one of CultureCon lunch consisted of jollof rice ( a tomato and rice-based dish that is widely eaten across West and Central Africa) sweet plantains, gold coast slaw, grilled peri-peri chicken with a Bissap Hibiscus juice from African Chop House, and yes it was delicious. Other featured restaurants included the Crabby Shack, Ras Plant Based, OxKale, Cafe Rue Dix, File Gumbo Bar, Aunt Et uncles, Charles Pan Fried Chicken, the James Beard nominated chef and Harlem icon’s soul food for the soul pick, and Chef Kwame’s Patty Palace.
By the close of Day one’s festivities, my black mesh CultureCon tote was full to the brim with goodies. I collected my goodies from Clinique whose volumizing mascara and skin moisturizer has instantly become a new favorite in my makeup arsenal; magazine giveaways (and cookies) from the largest publisher in North America, Dotdash Meredith; free beverages from CocaCola and SmartWater; and an adorable “Black Men We Love You” men’s care kit from Shea Moisture.
Let me know, did you get your Culture on this weekend or are you planning to attend the Fourth Annual Culture Con? Let me know your thoughts and stay tuned for Day 2 of Culture Con!
Celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble has partnered with The Knot to offer a lucky Bride the opportunity to work with her on their special day.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks were a classic staple of my childhood. I mean, what five-year-old boy doesn’t have even the smallest desire to throw his meaty little paws around a toy truck of doom named Boneshaker or Gunkster? These toys dominated my early years, and it was absolutely fantastic to still see how profound an impact the same brand had on today’s children. As I walked into Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn for the Hot Wheels: Monster Trucks Live Glow Party event, all I could see were little kids streaming past me with their families, thrilled to see their favorite toys come to life. It was a magical moment.
Taking a seat, I took a minute to marvel at the way the arena had been decorated. I had been at Barclays before for several concerts, but now, it had been completely transformed to include the wide-open space needed to drive several gas-guzzling behemoths. The Hot Wheels iconic branding was draped all around the walls, and there was a massive set of screens hanging from the ceiling that would allow for a closeup on the action no matter what. What was really stealing all attention, however, was the stack of dilapidated vehicles arranged on the ground. This might have perplexed some, but everyone in the audience knew: by the end of the night, these cars would be a remnant of what we were currently seeing. The show was about to begin.
The performances were astounding. Sure, I was a bit old for some of the crowd interactions (like when all the kids were asked to get up and dance like their life depended on it, and every five-year-old around me burst into their favorite Fortnite dance), but seeing the trucks themselves was a joy. They were loud, abrasive, and pure machines of destruction. I was able to see Mega Wrex, a dinosaur-themed truck, Tiger Shark, which looked like a tiger but had a shark fin, Boneshaker, which was made up of old boneyard parts, and others. Each truck had its own story and own quirks, and each took turns competing in a series of challenges that would be scored and ranked. For instance, one of the first was a bid for the best wheelie that could be performed by the trucks, on top of the bed of cars. What followed was a glorious cacophony of crunching steel and deep, screaming engines. I felt giddy.
After several more fun competitions such as best burnout and longest airtime, we were in for a treat for the “halftime show”, which I could never had anticipated. A giant box with wheels slowly rolled into the arena amidst heavy rock music and a huge applause from the audience. I watched as the top opened up like some Transformer, and a metal dinosaur, complete with evil eyes and a razor-sharp grin, unfolded out. The screens everywhere were emblazoned with its name: MEGASAURUS. It picked up an old car, and completely bit it in half. The kids around me were jumping out of their seats maniacally as pieces of old sedan dropped from the mouth of the ferocious beast. Even their parents had giant smiles plastered on their faces as it breathed a burst of fire.
After that show-stopping interjection, I was eager to see whether the next act would top it. When I saw workers rolling out a giant ramp, I knew I was in for a delight. Suddenly, I was witnessing several thrillchasers launching themselves on dirt bikes into the air, and landing on a giant inflatable pad. I was starstruck. As I watched, the motocross team circled back and relaunched, performing flips and aerial stunts that seemed to defy gravity. I was suddenly a kid again again amongst kids, and my attention was glued.
I was left walking out of Barclays Center wondering at what point in my life I had turned into such a boring adult. Reflecting on ancient times when Hot Wheels and Thomas the Tank Engine were the peak concerns I had in life, I came to realize that this night had helped me step back, albeit only for a couple of hours or so, into my older, smaller shoes. The fact that some force managed to achieve that is no small feat, and if one is able to experience this Monster Truck show from Hot Wheels even once and manage to unlock a memory from a small pocket of their childhood, I will consider that a win.
Hot Wheels: Monster Trucks Live Glow Party is currently touring the U.S, and is 100% a can’t-miss event.
The movie Killers of the Flower Moon is setting the tone for the future creation of film.
This week’s episode of Power Book IV: Force delivered some unexpected twists and intriguing developments. It’s clear that Jenard is apprehensive about Shanti’s plans, having had his own bitter experience with similar schemes in the past. The tension is palpable, and it remains to be seen whether he will fully commit to her cause.
Vic’s decision to divulge his entire game plan to Claudia raised some eyebrows among viewers. Many questioned the wisdom of sharing such sensitive information, suggesting he should have kept it simple by acknowledging her previous attempt on his life. The stakes are high, and Vic’s trust in Claudia may come back to haunt him.
Diamond’s potential role as Leon’s stepfather adds a layer of complexity to the storyline. It’s a surprising twist, and fans are eager to see how this new dynamic will unfold.
Mireya’s genuine connection with Tommy has not gone unnoticed, and her loyalty to him is undeniable. Claudia, on the other hand, appears to have very little leverage and power in the grand scheme of things.
The intrigue surrounding Claudia’s fate continues to grow, with speculation that she might uncover Vic’s status as a snitch and use that information to her advantage with Tommy. The power dynamics are ever-shifting in this gripping narrative.
Holly’s unexpected return at the end of the episode was a memorable moment that evoked memories of her tumultuous history with Tommy. It’s a promising development for fans who have followed their complex relationship.
With Shanti, Vic, and Jenard now plotting against Tommy, the dynamics of the conflict have taken a fascinating turn. Shanti’s revelation of her master plan surprised many, and the suspense is building as viewers wonder whether Vic will indeed betray Tommy or if another unexpected twist awaits.
Diamond’s potential stepfather role adds a fresh dimension to his character, and his journey is one to watch closely. As for Shanti, her motives and long-term plans are shrouded in mystery, and it remains to be seen whether her ambitious plot will succeed or backfire spectacularly.
Claudia’s return to Jenard’s orbit was met with amusement by many, with the consensus being that her ambitions in the drug game are a risky endeavor given her lack of respect and trust in the streets. The episode leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next twists and turns in this thrilling Power saga.
Father Stavros and his grown-up kids Anastasia and Andreas Aktipis are the family trio who are running Butterflied Chicken in midtown Manhattan.
Power Book IV: Force Season 2 has found its stride on its story and narrative as episode 3 masterfully blends emotional depth with the series’ signature action and violence.
We had the privilege of speaking with Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaudé, the director, who shared valuable insights into the intricate preparation required for such a large-scale episode and the experience of collaborating with this exceptional ensemble of actors.
The Knockturnal: How did you balance your directing skills for this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: So for this episode to all three of I tell people, I feel like it’s like the inciting episode of like the whole season, you know, a lot of stuff really is kicked off and underway and I had a really good time, you know, shooting it and collaborating with the actors, especially like when actors have been characters for so long and just being able to like, you know, collaborate with them and get different options, different versions of the take and stuff like that.
I value the contributions of the actors and appreciate how their performances enhance the overall narrative. They often bring a lot to the table, complementing the story I’ve crafted. I genuinely enjoy being part of shows that offer a diverse range of elements and keep the episodes engaging. However, it’s essential to have moments of emotional depth to anchor the story. In this episode, we managed to strike a balance by delving into intricate family relationships while still keeping the plot dynamic.
The Knockturnal: What was the collaborative process like in developing the character arc for Jenard and crafting the pivotal moments that led to his descent in this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: So a lot of it is birthed in the writers room. One of the first conversations that me and my writer, Terri Kopp, was just about the things that the characters were going through. And she explained to me that this episode was kind of where Jenard started slipping, you know, getting into stuff you shouldn’t be getting into. So we were really focused on that. And just the whole time in the episode, he is doing like this until he kind of crashes out at the end there. And that just sits like a whole other series of events in motion for later in the season and stuff like that. But again, a lot of that heavy lifting is done with the writers. Shout out to Kris Lofton, who plays Jenard, because, you know, he had to bring it and really be into those moments. I love that scene in the car with him and Lil K. You really just feel like that savage viciousness, that desperation out of him, which is really dope.
The Knockturnal: What were some of the challenging scenes for you as a director for this episode?
Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaude: In this episode, the most demanding aspects were the stunts we had to execute, particularly the Lamborghini chase sequence. Initially, it was a bit longer, but we encountered logistical challenges on the shooting day, including issues with the sun’s position, which necessitated a change in the shooting schedule. Coordinating the stunts was another complex aspect, as we had to conduct numerous practice runs with the stunt cars to ensure safety.
Additionally, we incorporated some innovative camera dollies, which were motorized and added a dynamic element to certain scenes, like the one where it felt like we were racing down the street. Another challenging scene was set in a torture chamber, requiring meticulous planning to determine the best materials, including silicone and others, for the fake hand to make it look convincing on camera, especially during moments when it needed to appear broken. These were some of the most demanding aspects of our work.
However, it’s worth noting that the actor’s ability to deliver their performances and hit their emotional marks was equally crucial to the success of the episode.
Club 90s presents Guts Night: Olivia Rodrigo’s Official Album Dance Party was held at the Gramercy Theatre in New York!