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La La Anthony Joins Forces with Delsym to Introduce the “Bring Comfort Home”” Campaign

by Chantell Hayden December 12, 2023
written by Chantell Hayden

Actress, Author and Entrepreneur La La Anthony has teamed up with the over-the-counter cough medicine brand Delsym to launch their “Bring Comfort Home” campaign. The campaign comes at the perfect time as we’re all navigating the cold and flu season.

When a cough starts making its way around La La’s house, there are two things La La’s family needs to feel better together so they don’t miss out on any holiday festivities: Delsym, the #1 doctor recommended, 12-hour cough suppressant, and her favorite Puerto Rican Chicken Soup recipe, her go-to comfort meal when her family is feeling under the weather this cold and flu season.

With a job that never stops and a family of superstar athletes, prioritizing health and wellness is essential for La La.

“Delsym has been a staple in my household for a very long time, especially being a mom to Kiyan. I always wanna make sure he’s on top of his game and I’m on top of mine,” said La La.

As the seasons change and the cold weather starts to settle in the air, there’s nothing like having a big, hot bowl of comfort food to dive in to.

Filled with plenty of flavor, ingredients high in electrolytes, vitamins and amino acids, and a touch of culture, it’s no wonder this traditional soup is Lala’s go-to remedy for feeling better. In partnership with Delsym, Lala is paying homage to her cherished tradition by inviting everyone to recreate the magic in their own kitchen.

Photo By: Michael Simon/startraksphoto.com

Puerto Rican Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 5 or more pieces of chicken thighs, drumsticks, wings, or combination of all plus chicken breasts cut into large chunks
  • Adobo seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons sofrito
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 packet of Sazon with Annatto
  • 3 Carrots, sliced
  • 1 small onion
  • 8 cups chicken broth or 4 packets of chicken bouillon
  • Large handful of Cilantro, chopped
  • 2 large potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 small frozen corn coblets cut in half or fresh corn on the cob cut into pieces
  • 1 cup fideo, spaghetti, or elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  • Add a tablespoon of oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add sofrito and stir for about 1 minute.
  • Add chopped onions, bay leaves, carrots, chopped cilantro add a tablespoon of adobo seasoning.
  • Add chicken to pot and stir for about 2 minutes until blended with all the seasoning.
  • Now add chicken broth to pot (8 cups) (if you’d like, you can add 4 cups of water and 4 cups of chicken broth).
  • Peel potatoes cut into chunks and add to pot.

(All the ingredients should be in the pot.)

  • Cover pot and cook over low-to-medium heat for about 1 hour.
  • Add salt or pepper to taste and during the last 15 minutes, add fideo or spaghetti. Enjoy!

In addition to their partnership, La La and Delsym are giving away 250 Delsym Comfort Meal Kits to families nationwide. The kit will include some ingredients for her Puerto Rican Chicken Soup recipe and $25 DoorDash gift card. You can sign up here.

Photo By: Michael Simon/startraksphoto.com

December 12, 2023 0 comments
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James Fauntleroy Celebrates the Release of “The Warmest Winter Ever”

by Hakeem Animashaun December 11, 2023
written by Hakeem Animashaun

James Fauntleroy recently celebrated the release of The Warmest Winter Ever, on Wednesday, December 6 at The Sun Rose at the Pendry in West Hollywood. We rung in the holiday season with James and the Platoon team over festive drinks and treats while indulging in the sonic bliss of The Warmest Winter Ever, which, upon its announcement, was heralded by Billboard as “filled to the brim with jaw-dropping harmonies and hilariously sultry wordplay.”

The Warmest Winter Ever consists of 25 future holiday staples that can be enjoyed year-round. It collates fan favorites previously only available on Soundcloud with nine brand new tracks. Listen to focus track “Sleigh” HERE. Recently, Fauntleroy received his seventh GRAMMY® Award nomination (and his first as an artist) under the for Best Progressive R&B Album category for Nova, his collaborative album with producer/jazz impresario Terrace Martin. With the upcoming release of The Warmest Winter Ever, James continues to stake his claim as a powerhouse musician.

December 11, 2023 0 comments
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ArtEntertainmentEventsFeaturedFilmNewsThe LatestTVUncategorizedVideo

Hallmark’s Christmas On Cherry Lane Movie Premiere In NYC!

by Nova Bajamonti December 10, 2023
written by Nova Bajamonti

Photography by Dijana Mesin

Christmas on Cherry Lane was a unique and thoughtful film that followed the story of three families simultaneously. We witness each family member’s festivities, traditions, worries and anxiety, especially pertaining to their holiday plans.

The film’s brilliant showcase of separate plots over  various decades was perfected effortlessly and beautifully by both the writer and director. Christmas on Cherry Lane had a unique “big picture” take and gave us both a bird’s eye view and fly on the wall perceptions. The audience stepped into each of the three houses and rooted for each person to manage to surpass their personal obstacles.

The film was not only a sentimental and thoughtful seasonal movie but also a confirmation of how we’re all connected. The sense of humanity and empathy in the movie was done intentionally and with a purpose. Audience members discovered how all the families have been connected through different generations thanks to the protagonist’s evolution from being a teen to an elderly resident in the community tying it all together.

Besides Christmas on Cherry Lane displaying  charming holiday themes, the movie philosophically confirmed the domino effect of our actions and the beauty of us all being connected with each other over decades of time. It’s a family friendly film that tugs at your heart strings and leaves a lasting effect of hope and positivity on the watcher and perhaps even a tear or two (guilty!).

December 10, 2023 0 comments
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LifestyleUncategorized

Mino Brasserie Serves Intimate Parisian Bistro in West Village

by Branda Ayo December 9, 2023
written by Branda Ayo

Nestled at the corner of Greenwich Avenue and 12th Street, Mino Brasserie stands as a charming 65-seat French restaurant, offering a modern twist on bistro classics at an affordable price. Since its opened its doors in 2022, Mino Brasserie has been delighting patrons with memorable meals that don’t break the bank. Led by Executive Chef Gerald Barthelemy, a former Michelin-star chef with an impressive tenure at the Vernet Hotel in Paris, the restaurant brings a touch of Parisian sophistication to the West Village. 

The name Mino draws inspiration from the French slang term Minot, which translates to kid. This concept is deeply rooted in celebrating the old-school, artisanal style of French cuisine, and sharing a memorable meal with family, friends, and the community. Contrary to the misconception that French cuisine is decorative, Mino Brasserie proves otherwise. The dining experience here is not only filling but also beautifully presented, with each dish perfectly plated. Even the salad exudes style, featuring layers, a mild bitterness, and a hint of seasoning, complemented by a delightful aioli sauce that elevates each bite. The preparation of every dish left me in awe. 

Image courtesy of Mino Brasserie

Mino impresses guest by embracing authentic  French cuisine.  Food has a way of making you feel at ease and comfortable. What the French consistently excel at is infusing love, warmth, and beauty into their culinary creations—an artistic escape experienced through every meal. As Paris is often dubbed the city of love, Mino Brasserie embraces a warm and intimate setting that aligns with the city’s romantic reputation. The carefully arranged seating and overall tone create an inviting space, encouraging patrons to truly engage, savor, and fully immerse themselves. The attention to detail is evident in the high ceilings,  zinc countertops, oak wood floors, inviting tan banquettes, and ornate antique mirrors. Inspired by authentic Brasseries in France, the restaurant captures the essence of their timeless charm and culinary tradition.

Appetizers:

Burrata Des Pouilles : Traditional burrata, pear, roasted pine nuts, cherry glaze

The Burrata des Pouilles was phenomenal, with a perfect blend of flavors. While slightly heavy on the olive oil, the complexity of the dish was truly captivating. The sweet and salty combination, enhanced by strawberries and tasty mozzarella, created a harmonious symphony. The crispy crostini’s added a delightful texture, and the beautiful plating made the experience even more enjoyable. Paired with the Gewurztraminer, it was a match made in heaven.

Crevettes À L’aïoli: Grilled shrimps, aioli sauce, mixed salad.

I’m a big fan of shrimp, so when I saw it on the menu, I knew I had to try it. Grilled shrimp with aioli sauce—it sounded absolutely delicious. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but appreciate the well-balanced seasoning and expert cooking, reflecting the care that went into making it perfect for me, the guest. Shrimp holds a prominent place in French cuisine, and it was an ideal choice to kick off the tasting at Mino Brasserie. Paired with the Gewurztraminer wine, it was a delightful combination. I have high standards for shrimp, and Mino certainly met the challenge, setting the tone for the entire evening. When the waiter brought out my plate, the fresh aroma and appealing appearance made me excited—I could tell this was going to be amazing.

Accompanied by:

The Gewurztraminer Hunawihr Alsace 2018 from France presents itself with a medium straw color.  The taste is sweetish and balanced, offering tones of lychee and mango. With medium acidity, this white wine leaves a lasting impression with its long and satisfying aftertaste, making it a great pair for my dishes at Mino Brasserie.

Main Course:

The Wild Scallops were exceptional, with a reduction sauce that was truly noteworthy. Paired with fries that were just right—thin and delightful—the scallops were skewered, not just drowned in the sauce. The layering and arrangement of flavors, including arugula salad and vegetables, created a fantastic combo. This dish is an absolute favorite, and I’m obsessed with its presentation and taste.

Sweet Finale – Crème Brûlée:

The Crème Brûlée with vanilla was a comforting dessert, featuring a sweet sugar-glazed top that cracked open to reveal a perfectly balanced French vanilla custard. It wasn’t overly sweet but exceptionally tasty and fresh. Each flavor was distinct, making it a beautiful complement to the entire meal.

Mino Brasserie is located at 225 W. 12th St⁣ and is open Tuesday – Friday: 4:30 pm – 11pm, Saturday – Sunday: 11:30 am-12 am, 11 pm* on Sundays,
and closed on Mondays. Reservations are available through Resy.

December 9, 2023 0 comments
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Heinz Open Kitchen Black Kitchen Initiative Joins With Red Rooster

by Kadeem Lundy December 9, 2023
written by Kadeem Lundy
[Photo credit: Heinz]

On Wednesday (December 6th), Heinz Open Kitchen joined with Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster and Ginny’s Supper Club to host the first Black Kitchen Initiative dinner. Heinz Open Kitchen gives Black Kitchen Initiative grantees access to kitchens in high profile restaurants allowing them to showcase their culinary talents during dinner events. The initiative was started in 2020 with support from the LEE Initiative and Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice. This year’s grantees included Joy Crump and Beth Black, owners and chefs at the Fredericksburg, Virginia restaurant Foode + Mercantile.

Photo Credit: Heinz

Crump and Black’s journey together began when they worked at an Atlanta news station. Black suggested that Crump pursue her love of cooking at culinary school and then the two later opened Foode + Mercantile. The duo draw inspiration from chefs like Edna Lewis and Leah Chase.

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A post shared by The Black Kitchen Initiative by Heinz (@heinzbki)

As guest arrived to the dinner at Ginny’s Supper Club, a 1940’s style supper club located under Red Rooster, they were treated to sweet potato biscuits (inspired by Leah Chase who created Dooky Chase’s Restaurant) with orange-clove butter and blood orange marmalade which was at every table, as well as house party mix made with spicy caramel popcorn, sweet nuts, toasted seeds and dried herbs. For the first course roasted carrot soup flavored with ginger, coconut and curry and garnished with black and white benne seed brittle and cilantro oil was served. The main course which was served family style started with pickled jumbo shrimp seasoned with chilis, fennel, winter citrus, and topped with black strap molasses bread. Then the special collaboration dish between Chef Marcus Samuelsson and Chef Joy was served which was the mushroom farrotto which was farro made with portobello mushrooms, pumpkin, coconut, injera crumble, pecorino cheese and a special black cherry garnish. Injera is an Ethiopian inspired fermented flatbread made from teff flour. Samuelsson was born in Ethiopia. Next smoked VA Pork Tenderloin was served in which the smoked pork was accompanied by whipped sweet potato , Ms. Lewis’s creamed collards, sour apple and topped with savory granola and sage pan sauce. For dessert attendees got to taste butterscotch budino which included sticky plantain, dried banana, and whipped cream.

Besides food signature cocktails that were offered included Grown Folks Tea (Bowman’s bourbon based with a lemon zested sugar rim), and Rockin Rooster Tea (pumpkin puree, apple puree, pumpkin simple syrup, carrot puree and apple spiced tea blend).

As guest dined they were also treated to live musical performances. The dinner concluded with a musical tribute to late Queen of Rock N Roll Tina Turner with a performance rendition of Proud Mary. To learn more about the Heinz Black Kitchen Initiative and to listen to their podcast head over to their website.

December 9, 2023 0 comments
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Fashion & BeautyUncategorized

A Night Of Elegance and Glamour: The PatBo Grand Opening in Miami

by Valeria Ulmos December 8, 2023
written by Valeria Ulmos

In the heart of Miami’s vibrant fashion scene, Dec. 6 marked an extraordinary moment as PatBo celebrated the grand opening of its new store and launched the second capsule collaboration between Creative Director Patricia Bonaldi and supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio. The evening unfolded as a dazzling spectacular that flawlessly blended fashion, music, and luxury on display for all to see in a perfect union of elegance.

Patricia Bonaldi

The atmosphere was electric as fashion enthusiasts, influencers, and celebrities gathered to witness the unveiling of PatBo’s new store. Situated at the vibrant center of Miami lies a store that stands as a shining symbol of the brand’s dedication to refinement and fashion. With its elegant design and chic interior, stepping into the PatBo store felt like entering a realm of high-end fashion and glamour.

The main highlight of the evening was the much-anticipated second capsule collaboration between Bonaldi and Ambrosio. The duo lived up to their sterling reputation for exquisite taste and keen design sensibilities, satisfying audiences with their latest work. The collection featured a stunning array of pieces that seamlessly blended Patricia’s signature intricate details with Alessandra’s effortless style. From glamorous evening gowns to chic casual wear, the collection offered something for every fashion-forward individual.

Alessandra Ambrosio, Patricia Bonaldi, Sophie Hawley-Weld

Attending the PatBo Grand Opening in Miami as an honored guest, I had the unique honor of wearing a dress designed by the fashion house. Presenting a new level of sophistication, I attended the event wearing an incredibly gorgeous blue gown, which speaks to PatBo’s unmatched passion to style and elegance. Representing the brand elevated the experience and added to the evening’s specialness. It was truly a work of art. Wearing PatBo made me feel like I was a part of the captivating story that was being told during this incredible celebration of fashion, culture, and creativity in addition to connecting with the brand’s vision.

Brazilian designer, Patricia Bonaldi, captured the spirit of Brazilian culture, bringing it alive with not only her designs but also the sensual beats of Brazil. It created an immersive atmosphere that instantly transported attendees to Rio de Janeiro’s lively streets.

Adding to the allure of the night was the carefully curated music selection by Clara Cady, a Brazilian DJ. Cady sett he tone for the evening, infusing the room with energy and excitement. As guests explored the store and admired the exquisite designs, Cady’s beats provided a rhythmic backdrop, enhancing the overall experience.

The pinnacle of the night came with a special acoustic performance by Sophie Hawley-Weld, a moment that left the audience captivated. The intimate setting allowed guests to appreciate not only the fashion on display but also the artistry of live music. Sophie’s soulful melodies echoed through the store, creating a magical ambiance that resonated with the essence of the PatBo brand.

Tucker Halpern, Sophie Hawley-Weld, Patricia Bonaldi, Alessandra Ambrosio

No grand opening is complete without a toast, and PatBo ensured that guests were treated to a selection of premium beverages. Cincoro Tequila, known for its smooth and refined taste, flowed generously, offering a taste of luxury to all attendees. Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça, Roseblood Wine, and Gorgie added to the opulence, providing a diverse range of options for guests to indulge in.

Rather than a simple store opening, the occasion commemorated ingenuity, teamwork and the quest for superb fashion. The mingling guests exuded an infectious excitement as they perused and praised the diverse array of collections on display, permeating the atmosphere with a tangible aura of anticipation. The PatBo Grand Opening in Miami was a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and creating a space where fashion becomes an immersive experience.

Alessandra Ambrosio

As the evening progressed and darkness fell, it became evident that PatBo’s recently opened Miami location aspired beyond a typical storefront; it aimed to provide an exquisite retreat for those seeking life’s luxuries. With its luxurious ambiance, curated collaborations, and commitment to innovation, PatBo has undoubtedly set a new standard for the intersection of fashion and lifestyle. The grand opening was a night to remember, leaving an indelible mark on Miami’s fashion landscape and setting the stage for the continued success of the PatBo brand.

Instagram Reel:

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A post shared by The Knockturnal (@theknockturnal)

So many people attended the celebration of the store’s grand opening:PATRICIA BONALDI, ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO, BECKY G, SOPHIE HAWLEY-WELD AND TUCKER HALPERN OF SOFI TUKKER, CAMILA COELHO, AMANDA MALONE, AMANDA DIAZ, AMBER WANG, ANGGIE BRYAN, CHARLY JORDAN, CHELCIE MAY, CHELSEA BOATEY, MARTHA GRAEFF, YVESMARK CHERY, CHRISTINE FERRARI, GERGANA IVANOVA,  INES SHEERO, LAUREN GONZALEZ, LIZ KENNEDY, ARI HORAITIS, BIANCA RODRIGUEZ, ALEXA ISBELL, VICTORIA HERRAN, FRANCESCA POPESCU IFE, LAURA DAY WEBB, JORDANNA MAIA, GIOVANA MAIA, JENNIFER YEPEZ, LEXIE STEVENSON, CLARA BERRY, BETTINA ANDERSON, KATYA TOLSTOVA, TIKA CAMAJ, BEATRIZ SANTANA, JULIANA KADINA, PAULA CHAPMAN, AYISHA KASSIR, SEYMA SUBASI AND MORE…..

Becky G

Camila Coelho, Patricia Bonaldi, Becky G

Tucker Halpern, Sophie Hawley-Weld, Patricia Bonaldi, Alessandra Ambrosio

We also attended CJ Hendry’s HOOPS Tree event that same night, immersing ourselves in the magic of Miami’s cultural fusion, artistry, and an unforgettable tribute to the city’s love for basketball.

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December 8, 2023 0 comments
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EventsThe LatestUncategorized

On the scene: The Root 100 Gala 2023

by JaMir Robert December 8, 2023
written by JaMir Robert

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 8, 2023 0 comments
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Luke Wilson in ‘Merry Little Batman’

by Jess Lucero December 8, 2023
written by Jess Lucero

There’s nothing quite like a children’s animated film right around the holiday season. It seems every year when the holidays roll around, I find myself reaching for the same movies that I grew up watching. But we have a new movie to add to the mix with Merry Little Batman. It’s the perfect mixture of animation, action, and holiday cheer.

The film showcases, Bruce Wayne along with his eight year old son, Damian Wayne. Damian begins to follow in his dad’s shoes as he transforms into “Little Batman” to save Gotham City from supervillains destroying the city and Christmas.

I spoke with Luke Wilson, who plays Batman and Bruce Wayne, about the film and the holiday season. We began by discussing holiday staples and how Merry Little Batman has hopes of becoming one of those classics that we turn back to every year.

With no kids of his own, Luke opened up about being an uncle to his brothers, Owen Wilson and Andrew Wilson’s, kids. Luke also expanded on how eager he is to share the film with his godson and nephews. Wilson’s personality, voice, and demeanor is apparent in the film, as confirmed by Luke’s three year old godson.

Experience the holiday cheer with Merry Little Batman on Prime Video, beginning December 8, 2023.

December 8, 2023 0 comments
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Indie Rock Band The Morning Herald Talks Music

by Antonio Pinheiro December 7, 2023
written by Antonio Pinheiro

We had the pleasure of sitting down with up and coming Indie Rock band The Morning Herald to discuss their experience as up-and-coming performers in NYC.

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December 7, 2023 0 comments
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EntertainmentEventsFilmThe LatestUncategorized

ON THE SCENE: Ava DuVernay’s Film Origin lights up NYC Premiere

by Jasawn Pryce December 7, 2023
written by Jasawn Pryce

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.

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Who runs the world? Girls! 🩷 We had the most a Who runs the world? Girls! 🩷

We had the most amazing day of inspiring panels, activations and networking at @femalefounderworld, with @eyebuydirect! 👓
Eskil Vogt reunites with longtime collaborator Joa Eskil Vogt reunites with longtime collaborator Joachim Trier for their sixth cinematic journey, co-writing Sentimental Value, a poignant exploration of family, memory, and reconciliation. 

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#Screenwriting #Storytelling #WritingForFilm #FilmWriting #NYFF2025 #NewYorkFilmFestival #IndieFilm
At @thenyff , @renatereinsve brings Nora Borg to l At @thenyff , @renatereinsve brings Nora Borg to life in Sentimental Value, portraying a character whose journey through family complexities and personal discovery resonates deeply. 

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The film reflects his dedication to emotion, storytelling, and cinematic craft. 🎥

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/2025-teen-vogue-summit-recap-full-of-fun-fashion-and-connection/

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From exclusive merch and photo cards to signatures and more — ~ 100% worth the visit 

⏰ Sept 16–17 | 11 AM – 7 PM PT
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#Aespa #Complex #RichMan #KPopMerch #AespaInLA #KPopFans #Kpop #Karina #Giselle #Winter #NingNing
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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/stars-stripes-and-alice-olivia-by-stacey-bendet/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/got-milk-celebrates-30-years-with-stars-and-everyday-californians/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/got-milk-celebrates-30-years-with-stars-and-everyday-californians/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/under-the-stars-at-the-delacorte-theater-hamilton-premiere-original-cast-in-attendance/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/mickey-friends-bring-whimsy-to-la-la-land-kind-cafe/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/cardi-b-leon-thomas-gelo-wu-tang-clan-more-honored-at-2025-billboard-rb-hip-hop-power-players-awards/

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PSA!!! We have another #knockgiveaway and this tim PSA!!! We have another #knockgiveaway and this time it’s for tickets to see LU KALA 💥

We’re giving away a pair of tickets to see her at Mercury Lounge in New York City on September 10th! Join us as we dance the night away to some of her top hits like Pretty Girl Era and Hotter Now 🎶

To enter hit the link 🔗 in our bio and fill out the form. Winners will be contacted through email! 

📍MUST BE IN NEW YORK CITY
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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/kai-on/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/the-paper-puts-a-newsroom-spin-on-classic-workplace-comedy/

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🔗: https://theknockturnal.com/austin-butler-cast-talk-new-movie-caught-stealing-video/

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