Apollo World Touring and Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith’s Westbrook Inc. Join Forces on WORLD TOUR
A New, Ground-Breaking, Touring Music Phenomenon Featuring The Biggest Names In Music, Staged In The World’s Most Iconic Cities
Robbie Williams to Headline First Stop of WORLD TOUR in Melbourne, Australia
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apollo World Touring and Westbrook Inc. announce that they will co-produce World Tour, a new multi-genre event-series, staged in the world’s most iconic cities.
Each live event will feature internationally acclaimed A-list artists, locally celebrated superstars and globally recognised DJs. Fans will be able to engage globally through exciting content formats on multiple platforms.
World Tour kicks off in Melbourne, Australia on 14 March 2020, alongside the Formula 1 ®Rolex Australian Grand Prix. International superstar Robbie Williams is announcing his only Australian public performance of 2020 as one of the headline artists, with other incredible acts to be announced shortly.
After Melbourne, World Tour will be touching down in other exciting world cities including; Montreal, Berlin, Milan, Seoul, Taipei, Osaka and Miami. The schedule of live events, complemented by multi-platform media elements, will make World Tour a non-stop year-round experience for audiences and brand partners, uniting millions of fans globally.
Tera Hanks, President of Westbrook Inc. said:
“On behalf of Will and Jada and the entire Westbrook Team, we’re so excited to partner with Apollo World Touring on this innovative event series. From the inception of World Tour, we’ve been excited with its potential as a global franchise to bring mind-blowing experiences and unparalleled access to fans and creators worldwide. We’re gathering some of the biggest names in music to celebrate cities around the world and the amazing creativity found there. We can’t wait for everyone to join us on the World Tour.”
Paul Morrison, Chairman and Co-Founder of Apollo World Touring said:
“Will and the team at Westbrook are groundbreaking innovators and fantastic partners, channelling unrivalled global recognition with excellence on working with the best cutting-edge creative talent around the world. World Tour will feed global audiences hungry for great content – bringing the best in entertainment to provide a unique platform which will celebrate the best that our host cities have to offer”.
Becky Artmonsky, Director and Co-Founder of Apollo World Touring said:
“We are so proud and excited to be launching World Tour. This provides the perfect platform to connect passionate music fans across the globe and spread a positive message in every city we visit. We are going to work with extraordinary talent, brands and cities to inspire people to be a part of creating a better future. We can’t wait to get started in Melbourne!”
Sandy Monteiro, [President of Partnerships Asia] of Apollo World Touring said:
“This is a unique, global event experience that is unrivalled and offers bespoke local activation for brands looking for international reach. My role is to engage partners and build platforms around what can work for them, using my experience in pioneering successful brand relationships with music artists. Here we have an opportunity to customize partnerships for brands, with an offer that ensures they are visible on a truly global scale, alongside the world’s biggest names in music and entertainment.”
Leading live music agent and promoter John Giddings is announced as World Tour’s Global Lead Promoter. John represented three of the five biggest grossing tours of all time with U2, The Rolling Stones and Madonna.
The full talent lineup for all World Tour events taking place in 2020, as well as some exciting brand and broadcast partnerships, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Visit worldtouring.com for more information on WORLD TOUR.
About Westbrook Inc.
Launched in 2019 by Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Miguel Melendez, and Kosaku Yada, Westbrook is a holding company formed to execute the Smith Family’s global content and commerce businesses. Westbrook houses newly launched and previously existing entities, including Red Table Talk Enterprises, Westbrook Studios, Westbrook Media (the digital content studio, social media management, and creative brand incubator), and direct to consumer business, Good Goods. Leveraging the Smith Family’s deep experience in entertainment and media, Westbrook creates and curates content across all major platforms – from short and mid-form digital content, to traditional television and motion pictures -- in furtherance of its mission to become the leader in global entertainment.
About Apollo World Touring
Apollo World Touring is an independently financed entertainment company.
Working from creative conception to funding to commercialisation, we create new entertainment platforms to disrupt the status quo across the sectors of music, live events, and broadcast series.
In conjunction with ground-breaking delivery partners and distributor channels, we work to unite audiences around the world via engaging and immersive live experiences and evergreen digital content.
We exist to entertain and believe that entertainment is a force for good.
We are widely experienced with specialists in international Commercial Brand Partnership Sales, Entertainment Finance, Host City Stakeholder Management and Government Grant Applications, Promoter and Stakeholder Management, Live Broadcast Event Executive Production and Global Broadcast Rights-clearance with brand integration. For more information visit apolloworldtouring.com
Apollo World Touring is represented by CAA.
*About other partners
CAA represents Apollo World Touring and are representing the project across their Music, TV, Motion Picture and Commercial Endorsements departments.
John Giddings, Solo Promotions & Agency, London
John’s clients have included - The Rolling Stones, U2, Madonna, Genesis, Celine Dion, David Bowie, The Police, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Pharrell Williams & The Who. He also revived and promotes The Isle of Wight Festival. As Lead Promoter for the World Tour John will appoint the World Tour’s agent (CAA in LA), nominate & manage local Promoter Partners and centrally book A-list talent for the live event series.
https://www.solo.uk.com/
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Showing posts with label Jada Pinkett Smith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jada Pinkett Smith. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Negromancer News Bits and Bites from October 13th to 19th, 2019 - Update #27
Support Leroy on Patreon:
COMICS-FILM - From WeGotThisCovered: Deadpool film franchise writers, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, said that they are waiting for Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige's approval to start working on the script for "Deadpool 3."
----------
DISNEY - From Variety: Oscar-winning director Robert Zemeckis ("Forest Gump") is in talks to direct Disney's live-action remake of Pinocchio.
------------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Dick Cook Studios (DCS), an independent production company helmed by former Walt Disney Studios chairman Dick Cook, will receive AUD $30 million ($20,473,020 USD) in Australian government funding to produce two fantasy features in the country. The films are "Ranger's Apprentice" and "The Alchemyst."
----------
STREAMING - From TheWrap: Greg Kinnear has joined the cast of the CBS All Access miniseries, "The Stand," in the role of Glen Bateman.
----------
ANIMATION - From TheWrap: WarnerMedia's streaming service, HBOMax, has obtained the streaming rights to the animated films of the Japanese animation powerhouse, Studio Ghibli, which produced the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away." When they debut in 2020, it will be the first time these films will be streamed
TELEVISION - From Variety: Kurt Sutter has been fired as showrunner from FX's "Mayans MC," a show he co-created. It reportedly has to do with complaints against him.
From Deadline: Kurt Sutter tells his side of the story on being fired from FX's "Mayans MC."
----------
MOVIES-TRAILER - From ShadowandAct: There is a first trailer for "She Ball," the first film from Cash Money Films in partnership with Nick Cannon's Ncredible Entertainment.
----------
CELEBRITY - From Deadline: Ron Ely was the star of NBC's 1960s "Tarzan" television series (1966-68). The police found Ely's wife, Valerie, stabbed to death at the couple's home in the Hope Ranch community of Santa Barbara, California. The suspect in Valerie's death was Ron and Valerie's son, Cameron, whom the police shot to death. Ron Ely was reportedly unharmed.
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Jada Pinkett Smith is in talks to return for "The Matrix 4." Smith played Niobe in "The Matrix Reloaded" and "The Matrix Revolutions."
From Deadline: Actress Jessica Henwick, who appeared in Marvel/Netflix's "Iron Fist," is in talks to take a lead role in "The Matrix 4."
From Variety: Emmy-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris is joining the cast of "The Matrix 4." Production on the film is set to begin in early 2020.
----------
SCANDAL - From YahooEntertainment: Oscar-nominated actress Felicity Huffman has reported to prison to begin serving her 14-day sentence for her role in the "college admissions scanda," also known as "Operation Varsity Blues."
----------
MUSIC - From YahooMusic: The nominations for the class of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2020 have been announced. Their are 16 nominated acts, including Whitney Houston, Pat Benatar, and Dave Matthews Band.
----------
ECO - From Grist: Legendary and Oscar-winning actress Jane Fonda was recently arrested during a climate protest, and she says she plans to do it again.
----------
STREAMING - From Netflix: Netflix and Ava DuVernay face a lawsuit over its Emmy-winning miniseries, "When They See Us."
----------
CULTURE - From YahooLifestyle: A "ghost kitchen" may be preparing your Chick-fil-A.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: Zoe Kravitz has won the role of "Selina Kyle/Catwoman" in Matt Reeves' The Batman, in which Robert Pattinson plays Batman.
----------
AWARDS - From Deadline: Nominations have been announced for the 4th Annual / 2019 Critics' Choice Documentary Awards.
----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: The winner of the 10/11 to 10/13/2019 weekend box office is "Joker" with an estimated take of 55 million dollars.
From Variety: "Joker" still dominating the international box office with an estimated haul of 123.7 million dollars in 79 markets.
From Patreon: My review of "Gemini Man."
From Patreon: My review of "Joker."
----------
POLITICS - From TheGuardian: Robert De Niro calls President Trump a "gangster president," among other things he says.
---------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Quentin Tarantino offers praise for the late actor Robert Forster. Forster, who died Friday, Oct. 11th, appeared in Tarantino's 1997 film, "Jackie Brown" with Pam Grier. Tarantino said that casting Forster, who received an Oscar nomination for his role in the film, one of the best casting choices he has ever made.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Idina Menzel is in talks to join Sony Pictures' "Cinderella" in the role of the evil stepmother. Menzel, a Tony Award-winning Broadway actress and singer, is probably best known to the general public for her voice role as "Queen Elsa" in Disney's animated film, "Frozen," and for sing that film's worldwide hit song, "Let It Go."
OBITS:
From TheBaltimoreSun: U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings, a Democrat from Baltimore, has died at the age of 68, Thursday, October 17, 2019. Cummings was known for his blunt oratory and for his devotion to the city of Baltimore, Maryland. As chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, he was a key figure in the impeachment inquiry in President Donald Trump.
From Variety: The actor Bill Macy has died at the age of 97, Thursday, October 17, 2019. Macy was best known for his role as "Walter Findlay," the husband of Bea Arthur's "Maude," on the former CBS TV series, "Maude" (1972-78).
From Deadline: The so-called "pimp to the stars" and "Hollywood hustler," Scotty Bowers, died at the age of 96, Sunday, October 13, 2019. A former marine and gas station attendant, Bowers was allegedly a sexual companion to or sexual facilitator (pimp) for numerous stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, including Cary Grant, Randolph Scott, Spencer Tracy, Charles Laughton, Cole Porter, and Laurence Olivier, to name a few. In his 2012 memoir, "Full Service," Bowers gave insight into the secretive sex lives high-profile Hollywood stars of the golden era.
COMICS-FILM - From WeGotThisCovered: Deadpool film franchise writers, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, said that they are waiting for Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige's approval to start working on the script for "Deadpool 3."
----------
DISNEY - From Variety: Oscar-winning director Robert Zemeckis ("Forest Gump") is in talks to direct Disney's live-action remake of Pinocchio.
------------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Dick Cook Studios (DCS), an independent production company helmed by former Walt Disney Studios chairman Dick Cook, will receive AUD $30 million ($20,473,020 USD) in Australian government funding to produce two fantasy features in the country. The films are "Ranger's Apprentice" and "The Alchemyst."
----------
STREAMING - From TheWrap: Greg Kinnear has joined the cast of the CBS All Access miniseries, "The Stand," in the role of Glen Bateman.
----------
ANIMATION - From TheWrap: WarnerMedia's streaming service, HBOMax, has obtained the streaming rights to the animated films of the Japanese animation powerhouse, Studio Ghibli, which produced the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away." When they debut in 2020, it will be the first time these films will be streamed
TELEVISION - From Variety: Kurt Sutter has been fired as showrunner from FX's "Mayans MC," a show he co-created. It reportedly has to do with complaints against him.
From Deadline: Kurt Sutter tells his side of the story on being fired from FX's "Mayans MC."
----------
MOVIES-TRAILER - From ShadowandAct: There is a first trailer for "She Ball," the first film from Cash Money Films in partnership with Nick Cannon's Ncredible Entertainment.
----------
CELEBRITY - From Deadline: Ron Ely was the star of NBC's 1960s "Tarzan" television series (1966-68). The police found Ely's wife, Valerie, stabbed to death at the couple's home in the Hope Ranch community of Santa Barbara, California. The suspect in Valerie's death was Ron and Valerie's son, Cameron, whom the police shot to death. Ron Ely was reportedly unharmed.
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Jada Pinkett Smith is in talks to return for "The Matrix 4." Smith played Niobe in "The Matrix Reloaded" and "The Matrix Revolutions."
From Deadline: Actress Jessica Henwick, who appeared in Marvel/Netflix's "Iron Fist," is in talks to take a lead role in "The Matrix 4."
From Variety: Emmy-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris is joining the cast of "The Matrix 4." Production on the film is set to begin in early 2020.
----------
SCANDAL - From YahooEntertainment: Oscar-nominated actress Felicity Huffman has reported to prison to begin serving her 14-day sentence for her role in the "college admissions scanda," also known as "Operation Varsity Blues."
----------
MUSIC - From YahooMusic: The nominations for the class of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2020 have been announced. Their are 16 nominated acts, including Whitney Houston, Pat Benatar, and Dave Matthews Band.
----------
ECO - From Grist: Legendary and Oscar-winning actress Jane Fonda was recently arrested during a climate protest, and she says she plans to do it again.
----------
STREAMING - From Netflix: Netflix and Ava DuVernay face a lawsuit over its Emmy-winning miniseries, "When They See Us."
----------
CULTURE - From YahooLifestyle: A "ghost kitchen" may be preparing your Chick-fil-A.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: Zoe Kravitz has won the role of "Selina Kyle/Catwoman" in Matt Reeves' The Batman, in which Robert Pattinson plays Batman.
----------
AWARDS - From Deadline: Nominations have been announced for the 4th Annual / 2019 Critics' Choice Documentary Awards.
----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: The winner of the 10/11 to 10/13/2019 weekend box office is "Joker" with an estimated take of 55 million dollars.
From Variety: "Joker" still dominating the international box office with an estimated haul of 123.7 million dollars in 79 markets.
From Patreon: My review of "Gemini Man."
From Patreon: My review of "Joker."
----------
POLITICS - From TheGuardian: Robert De Niro calls President Trump a "gangster president," among other things he says.
---------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Quentin Tarantino offers praise for the late actor Robert Forster. Forster, who died Friday, Oct. 11th, appeared in Tarantino's 1997 film, "Jackie Brown" with Pam Grier. Tarantino said that casting Forster, who received an Oscar nomination for his role in the film, one of the best casting choices he has ever made.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Idina Menzel is in talks to join Sony Pictures' "Cinderella" in the role of the evil stepmother. Menzel, a Tony Award-winning Broadway actress and singer, is probably best known to the general public for her voice role as "Queen Elsa" in Disney's animated film, "Frozen," and for sing that film's worldwide hit song, "Let It Go."
OBITS:
From TheBaltimoreSun: U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings, a Democrat from Baltimore, has died at the age of 68, Thursday, October 17, 2019. Cummings was known for his blunt oratory and for his devotion to the city of Baltimore, Maryland. As chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, he was a key figure in the impeachment inquiry in President Donald Trump.
From Variety: The actor Bill Macy has died at the age of 97, Thursday, October 17, 2019. Macy was best known for his role as "Walter Findlay," the husband of Bea Arthur's "Maude," on the former CBS TV series, "Maude" (1972-78).
From Deadline: The so-called "pimp to the stars" and "Hollywood hustler," Scotty Bowers, died at the age of 96, Sunday, October 13, 2019. A former marine and gas station attendant, Bowers was allegedly a sexual companion to or sexual facilitator (pimp) for numerous stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, including Cary Grant, Randolph Scott, Spencer Tracy, Charles Laughton, Cole Porter, and Laurence Olivier, to name a few. In his 2012 memoir, "Full Service," Bowers gave insight into the secretive sex lives high-profile Hollywood stars of the golden era.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
Presenters for the 61st Annual Grammy Awards Have Been Announced
Recording Academy™ Announces Presenters for the 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards®
Music's Biggest Night®, Hosted by Alicia Keys, Airs Live on CBS, Feb. 10
SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--An eclectic all-star lineup of artists, musicians, actors, and comedians will take the stage as presenters at the 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards®. This year's presenters include current GRAMMY® nominees Kelsea Ballerini, Leon Bridges, Luke Combs, and Charlie Wilson; GRAMMY winners Alessia Cara, Eve, John Mayer, Bob Newhart, Smokey Robinson, Swizz Beatz, and Meghan Trainor; recording artist Kane Brown, South Korean pop sensation BTS, past GRAMMY nominee Cedric The Entertainer, actress Nina Dobrev, professional football player Julian Edelman, actress Anna Kendrick, actress Jada Pinket Smith, and actor Wilmer Valderrama.
Previously announced GRAMMY performers include Yolanda Adams, J Balvin, Camila Cabello, Cardi B, Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle, Miley Cyrus, Andra Day, Dan + Shay, H.E.R., Fantasia, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Little Big Town, Post Malone, Ricky Martin, Maren Morris, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monáe, Kacey Musgraves, Dolly Parton, Katy Perry, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mark Ronson, Diana Ross, Arturo Sandoval, Travis Scott, St. Vincent, and Young Thug.
Live from STAPLES Center, and hosted by Alicia Keys, the 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards will be broadcast in HDTV and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019 at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.
The 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by AEG Ehrlich Ventures for the Recording Academy. Ken Ehrlich is executive producer, Ben Winston is executive producer, Louis J. Horvitz is director, Chantel Sausedo is the producer, and David Wild and Ehrlich are the writers.
ABOUT THE RECORDING ACADEMY
The Recording Academy™ represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. Dedicated to ensuring the recording arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, the Academy honors music's history while investing in its future through the GRAMMY Museum®, advocates on behalf of music creators, supports music people in times of need through MusiCares®, and celebrates artistic excellence through the GRAMMY Awards—music's only peer-recognized accolade and highest achievement. As the world's leading society of music professionals, we work year-round to foster a more inspiring world for creators.
For more information about the Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @RecordingAcad on Twitter, "like" Recording Academy on Facebook, and join the Recording Academy's social communities on Instagram, Tumblr, and YouTube.
----------------------------
Music's Biggest Night®, Hosted by Alicia Keys, Airs Live on CBS, Feb. 10
SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--An eclectic all-star lineup of artists, musicians, actors, and comedians will take the stage as presenters at the 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards®. This year's presenters include current GRAMMY® nominees Kelsea Ballerini, Leon Bridges, Luke Combs, and Charlie Wilson; GRAMMY winners Alessia Cara, Eve, John Mayer, Bob Newhart, Smokey Robinson, Swizz Beatz, and Meghan Trainor; recording artist Kane Brown, South Korean pop sensation BTS, past GRAMMY nominee Cedric The Entertainer, actress Nina Dobrev, professional football player Julian Edelman, actress Anna Kendrick, actress Jada Pinket Smith, and actor Wilmer Valderrama.
Previously announced GRAMMY performers include Yolanda Adams, J Balvin, Camila Cabello, Cardi B, Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle, Miley Cyrus, Andra Day, Dan + Shay, H.E.R., Fantasia, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Little Big Town, Post Malone, Ricky Martin, Maren Morris, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monáe, Kacey Musgraves, Dolly Parton, Katy Perry, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mark Ronson, Diana Ross, Arturo Sandoval, Travis Scott, St. Vincent, and Young Thug.
Live from STAPLES Center, and hosted by Alicia Keys, the 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards will be broadcast in HDTV and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019 at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.
The 61st Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by AEG Ehrlich Ventures for the Recording Academy. Ken Ehrlich is executive producer, Ben Winston is executive producer, Louis J. Horvitz is director, Chantel Sausedo is the producer, and David Wild and Ehrlich are the writers.
ABOUT THE RECORDING ACADEMY
The Recording Academy™ represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. Dedicated to ensuring the recording arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, the Academy honors music's history while investing in its future through the GRAMMY Museum®, advocates on behalf of music creators, supports music people in times of need through MusiCares®, and celebrates artistic excellence through the GRAMMY Awards—music's only peer-recognized accolade and highest achievement. As the world's leading society of music professionals, we work year-round to foster a more inspiring world for creators.
For more information about the Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @RecordingAcad on Twitter, "like" Recording Academy on Facebook, and join the Recording Academy's social communities on Instagram, Tumblr, and YouTube.
----------------------------
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
BET Announces Chris Brown, Lil Wayne and More for 2017 BET Awards
Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled, Big Sean, New Edition, Post Malone, Roman GianArthur and Jessie Reyez Added to Star-Studded List of Performers at “BET Awards 17”
New Peformers to Join Previously Announced Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, La La Anthony, Tamar Braxton, Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Trey Songz, Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr. at “BET Awards 17”
Chance the Rapper and New Edition to Be Honored
Leslie Jones to Host “BET Awards 17” Airing Live on Sunday, June 25 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 22 – 25, 2017
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announced today that music heavyweights Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled, Big Sean, Post Malone, Roman GianArthur and Jessie Reyez will perform at the "BET Awards 17" as well as Lifetime Achievement Award recipients New Edition. The iconic annual show will also have performances from previously announced hitmakers including Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Trey Songz and Tamar Braxton. The "BET Awards 17" has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts. Hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, the “BET Awards” is sure to include unforgettable moments, appearances and performances you won’t want to miss! The "BET Awards 17" will air LIVE on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 8 pm ET from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA on BET.
In addition, leading entertainers across television, film, sports, comedy and music join as presenters at the “BET Awards” 2017 including Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, La La Anthony, the cast of Universal Pictures’ “Girls Trip” (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, with Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah), Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr.. These names represent some of the most accomplished talent and rising stars in the industry today.
BET Networks also revealed iconic R&B group New Edition will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the "BET Awards 17." In addition, multi--Grammy Award winning hip-hop artist and singer-songwriter, Chance the Rapper, will receive the evening’s Humanitarian Award presented by Walmart.
As previously announced, Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.” Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert. Award. A full list of the "BET Awards 17" nominees is available here.
The "BET Awards 17" will premiere around the world on BET’s international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Internationally, fans in 100 countries can also stream the 2017 “BET Awards” live with BET Play, BET International’s subscription video on demand application. The iOS and Android app, which also features current and classic BET television series, documentaries, standup comedy and legendary musical performances, will carry a live feed of the red carpet and the Awards, and is available for download now in the iTunes and Google Play stores for $3.99 a month following a seven-day free trial.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Connie Orlando, BET's Senior Vice President of Music and Specials serves as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 22-25, 2017. BET.com/betawards is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the 5th year of the BET Experience weekend are better than ever and now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly-anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. Last year the in-demand VIP Packages sold out, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
General tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.
Download the BETX '17 app powered by AT&T, the #1 source for everything BETX, including real-time event updates, full schedules, BET Fan Fest wristbands, daily prizes, ticket giveaways, live streams and much more.
Follow the BET Experience on Twitter @betexperience for the latest and greatest and join the hottest conversation by using #BETX. Feel free to also check us out online at http://www.betexperience.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B sted NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 22 - 25, 2017 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world's largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran and multi-Image Award® winner Jesse Collins. Collins has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Most recently Collins was the executive producer of the critically-acclaimed film, The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017 and posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. Collins has also produced award-winning programming including the BET Awards, BET Honors, UNCF’s An Evening of Stars, ABFF Honors, Soul Train Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards, is a consulting producer for the iconic GRAMMY Awards and executive producer of BET’s hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. Will Smith, Beyonce, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey are a few of the myriad of superstar talent that Collins has worked with through the years. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow on @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
------------------------
New Peformers to Join Previously Announced Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, La La Anthony, Tamar Braxton, Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Trey Songz, Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr. at “BET Awards 17”
Chance the Rapper and New Edition to Be Honored
Leslie Jones to Host “BET Awards 17” Airing Live on Sunday, June 25 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 22 – 25, 2017
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announced today that music heavyweights Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled, Big Sean, Post Malone, Roman GianArthur and Jessie Reyez will perform at the "BET Awards 17" as well as Lifetime Achievement Award recipients New Edition. The iconic annual show will also have performances from previously announced hitmakers including Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Trey Songz and Tamar Braxton. The "BET Awards 17" has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts. Hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, the “BET Awards” is sure to include unforgettable moments, appearances and performances you won’t want to miss! The "BET Awards 17" will air LIVE on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 8 pm ET from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA on BET.
In addition, leading entertainers across television, film, sports, comedy and music join as presenters at the “BET Awards” 2017 including Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, La La Anthony, the cast of Universal Pictures’ “Girls Trip” (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, with Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah), Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr.. These names represent some of the most accomplished talent and rising stars in the industry today.
BET Networks also revealed iconic R&B group New Edition will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the "BET Awards 17." In addition, multi--Grammy Award winning hip-hop artist and singer-songwriter, Chance the Rapper, will receive the evening’s Humanitarian Award presented by Walmart.
As previously announced, Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.” Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert. Award. A full list of the "BET Awards 17" nominees is available here.
The "BET Awards 17" will premiere around the world on BET’s international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Internationally, fans in 100 countries can also stream the 2017 “BET Awards” live with BET Play, BET International’s subscription video on demand application. The iOS and Android app, which also features current and classic BET television series, documentaries, standup comedy and legendary musical performances, will carry a live feed of the red carpet and the Awards, and is available for download now in the iTunes and Google Play stores for $3.99 a month following a seven-day free trial.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Connie Orlando, BET's Senior Vice President of Music and Specials serves as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 22-25, 2017. BET.com/betawards is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the 5th year of the BET Experience weekend are better than ever and now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly-anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. Last year the in-demand VIP Packages sold out, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
General tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.
Download the BETX '17 app powered by AT&T, the #1 source for everything BETX, including real-time event updates, full schedules, BET Fan Fest wristbands, daily prizes, ticket giveaways, live streams and much more.
Follow the BET Experience on Twitter @betexperience for the latest and greatest and join the hottest conversation by using #BETX. Feel free to also check us out online at http://www.betexperience.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B sted NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 22 - 25, 2017 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world's largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran and multi-Image Award® winner Jesse Collins. Collins has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Most recently Collins was the executive producer of the critically-acclaimed film, The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017 and posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. Collins has also produced award-winning programming including the BET Awards, BET Honors, UNCF’s An Evening of Stars, ABFF Honors, Soul Train Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards, is a consulting producer for the iconic GRAMMY Awards and executive producer of BET’s hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. Will Smith, Beyonce, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey are a few of the myriad of superstar talent that Collins has worked with through the years. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow on @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
------------------------
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
BET Announces Bruno Mars, Future and More Performing for 2017 BET Awards
Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, La La Anthony, Tamar Braxton, Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Trey Songz, Trevor Noah and More Set to Take the Stage at the 2017 “BET Awards”
Leslie Jones to Host “BET Awards” Airing Live on Sunday, June 25, 2017 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles at 8 P.M. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 22 – 25, 2017
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announced the first group of performers and presenters set to take the stage at the 2017 "BET Awards". The iconic annual show will have performances from some of the biggest names in music including Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Trey Songz and Tamar Braxton. The "BET Awards" has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts. Hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, the “BET Awards” is sure to include unforgettable moments, appearances and performances you won’t want to miss! The 2017 "BET Awards" will air LIVE on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 8 pm ET from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA on BET.
In addition, leading entertainers across television, film, sports, comedy and music join as presenters at the “BET Awards” 2017 including Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, La La Anthony, the cast of Universal Pictures’ “Girls Trip” (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, with Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah), Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr.. These names represent some of the most accomplished talent and rising stars in the industry today.
As previously announced, Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.” Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert. Award. A full list of the 2017 "BET Awards" nominees is available here.
The 2017 “BET Awards” will premiere around the world on BET’s international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Fan voting for the "Best International Act: Europe" and "Best International Act: Africa" categories opens today and will close on May 26. Internationally, fans in 100 countries can also stream the 2017 “BET Awards” live with BET Play, BET International’s subscription video on demand application. The iOS and Android app, which also features current and classic BET television series, documentaries, standup comedy and legendary musical performances, will carry a live feed of the red carpet and the Awards, and is available for download now in the iTunes and Google Play stores for $3.99 a month following a seven-day free trial.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Connie Orlando, BET's Senior Vice President of Music and Specials serves as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 22-25, 2017. BET.com/betawards is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the 5th year of the BET Experience weekend are better than ever and now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly-anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. Last year the in-demand VIP Packages sold out, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
General tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.
Download the BETX '17 app powered by AT&T, the #1 source for everything BETX, including real-time event updates, full schedules, BET Fan Fest wristbands, daily prizes, ticket giveaways, live streams and much more.
Follow the BET Experience on Twitter @betexperience for the latest and greatest and join the hottest conversation by using #BETX. Feel free to also check online at http://www.betexperience.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA)(NASDAQ:VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 22 - 25, 2017 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world's largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran and multi-Image Award® winner Jesse Collins. Collins has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Most recently Collins was the executive producer of the critically-acclaimed film, The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017 and posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. Collins has also produced award-winning programming including the BET Awards, BET Honors, UNCF’s An Evening of Stars, ABFF Honors, Soul Train Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards, is a consulting producer for the iconic GRAMMY Awards and executive producer of BET’s hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. Will Smith, Beyoncé, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey are a few of the myriad of superstar talent that Collins has worked with through the years. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow on @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
-----------------------------
Leslie Jones to Host “BET Awards” Airing Live on Sunday, June 25, 2017 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles at 8 P.M. ET
BET Experience at L.A. Live Presented by Coca-Cola® Takes Place June 22 – 25, 2017
#BETAWARDS
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks announced the first group of performers and presenters set to take the stage at the 2017 "BET Awards". The iconic annual show will have performances from some of the biggest names in music including Bruno Mars, Future, Migos, Trey Songz and Tamar Braxton. The "BET Awards" has set the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking broadcasts. Hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, the “BET Awards” is sure to include unforgettable moments, appearances and performances you won’t want to miss! The 2017 "BET Awards" will air LIVE on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 8 pm ET from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA on BET.
In addition, leading entertainers across television, film, sports, comedy and music join as presenters at the “BET Awards” 2017 including Yara Shahidi, Cardi B, Issa Rae, Jamie Foxx, La La Anthony, the cast of Universal Pictures’ “Girls Trip” (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, with Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah), Trevor Noah, Robin Thede, Cari Champion and Demetrius Shipp Jr.. These names represent some of the most accomplished talent and rising stars in the industry today.
As previously announced, Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.” Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert. Award. A full list of the 2017 "BET Awards" nominees is available here.
The 2017 “BET Awards” will premiere around the world on BET’s international networks. It will air in the UK on Tuesday, June 27th at 9:00pm BST, in Africa on Tuesday, June 27th at 8:00pm CAT, and in France on Wednesday, June 28th at 9:00pm CEST. Fan voting for the "Best International Act: Europe" and "Best International Act: Africa" categories opens today and will close on May 26. Internationally, fans in 100 countries can also stream the 2017 “BET Awards” live with BET Play, BET International’s subscription video on demand application. The iOS and Android app, which also features current and classic BET television series, documentaries, standup comedy and legendary musical performances, will carry a live feed of the red carpet and the Awards, and is available for download now in the iTunes and Google Play stores for $3.99 a month following a seven-day free trial.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as Executive Producer. Connie Orlando, BET's Senior Vice President of Music and Specials serves as Executive Producers for BET Networks.
The “BET Awards” will take place along with the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles from June 22-25, 2017. BET.com/betawards is the official site for the “BET Awards” and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. VIP Packages for the 5th year of the BET Experience weekend are better than ever and now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for STAPLES Center shows, three levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly-anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. Last year the in-demand VIP Packages sold out, so guests are encouraged to purchase now before the allotment is depleted. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.
General tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.
Download the BETX '17 app powered by AT&T, the #1 source for everything BETX, including real-time event updates, full schedules, BET Fan Fest wristbands, daily prizes, ticket giveaways, live streams and much more.
Follow the BET Experience on Twitter @betexperience for the latest and greatest and join the hottest conversation by using #BETX. Feel free to also check online at http://www.betexperience.com.
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA)(NASDAQ:VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT “BET AWARDS”
The “BET Awards” is one of the most watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains as the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is BET's #1 telecast every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.
BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®
BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 22 - 25, 2017 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special appearances. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 25, 2017 at Microsoft Theater.
ABOUT AEG
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world's largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran and multi-Image Award® winner Jesse Collins. Collins has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Most recently Collins was the executive producer of the critically-acclaimed film, The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017 and posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. Collins has also produced award-winning programming including the BET Awards, BET Honors, UNCF’s An Evening of Stars, ABFF Honors, Soul Train Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards, is a consulting producer for the iconic GRAMMY Awards and executive producer of BET’s hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart and VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. Will Smith, Beyoncé, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince and Mariah Carey are a few of the myriad of superstar talent that Collins has worked with through the years. Follow Jesse Collins Entertainment @JesseCollinsEnt on Twitter and Instagram and go to http://www.jessecollinsent.com/ for more information on the company.
Follow on @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS
-----------------------------
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Negromancer News Bits and Bites from January 17th to 23rd, 2016 - Update #57
Support Leroy on Patreon.
POLITICS: From RSN: Michael Moore - Flint water poisoning is a "racial crime."
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MOVIES: From Variety: Sony rebooting Jim Henson's "Labyrinth."
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COMICS - From CBR: Kevin Smith says that DC Entertainment higher-ups are considering a DC Movie/TV crossover for sometime in the future.
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POLITICS - From YahooNews: GOP presidential candidates have been quiet about Flint Michigan water crisis. So has Faux News.
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AWARDS - From BlackReelAwards: 16th annual Black Reel Awards nominations.
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COMICS - From CinemaBlend: Deadpool movie looking at a big opening weekend.
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OSCARS - From ATTN: New York Post has fun with the blizzard and #OscarsSoWhite.
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RACE - From ThinkProgress: Once upon a time, armed black people bucked the government, and they were killed - unlike the White militia at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon.
Speaking of - From ThinkProgress: Ursula K. Le Guin sacks Ammon Bundy and his Klan-lings and the newspaper that parrots their nonsense.
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POLITICS - From RSN: Oliver Stone speaks of war-mongering on the part of both Republicans and Democrats.
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CULTURE - From USMagazine: "Actress" Stacey Dash hits back at BET.
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CRIME - From YahooNews: Ex-Oklahoma City police officer, Daniel Holtzclaw, preyed on women in poor neighborhoods and raped at least 13. He was recently sentenced to 263 years in prison.
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CULTURE: From TheVox: Netflix's "Making a Murderer" reveals the systematic problems of the American justice system.
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MOVIES - From EcoWatch: Leonardo DiCaprio says that film "The Revenant" drove home the need to take action on climate change.
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COMICS: From BusinessInsider: Warner Bros. is planning 11 superhero movies through 2020, and most look horrible.
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MUSIC: From TheVillageVoice: The 2015 Pazz & Jop Critics Poll and the Year in Music.
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TRAILER - From Vulture: The red band trailer for Key & Peele's upcoming film, Keanu, has been released.
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OSCARS - From Vulture: Oscar nominee, this year, Mark Ruffalo, is weighing skipping the Oscar ceremony.
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OSCARS - From YahooTV: Will Smith will not attend this year's Oscar ceremony, as his wife is skipping the ceremony also.
---------------
COMICS - From ComicBookBin: Herve St. Louis, the owner of the Bin and the creator of the webcomic strip, "Johnny Bullet," talks about the difficulties of reader surveys.
---------------
COMICS - From BleedingCool: The best work I've ever done says Hellboy creator, Mike Mignola.
---------------
MOVIES - From THR: Nate Turner talks about his hot Sundance film, "Birth of a Nation."
---------------
MOVIES - From THR: Paramount has taken "Terminator 2" off its release schedule and replaced it with the "Baywatch" movie - which I did not know was going to happen.
---------------
OSCARS - From THR: Academy members defend votes - "to imply we are racists is extremely offensive."
Also From THR: Scott Feinberg, awards analyst, on Oscar omissions.
---------------
STAR WARS - From YahooMovies: Star Wars Episode 8 has a new release date moving from May 2017 to December 15, 2017.
---------------
MOVIES - From TheGuardian: Jamie Foxx with the help of an as-yet unnamed paramedic pulled a young man from a burning car.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooMovies: See the "Wonder Woman" clip that played on The CW. The movie resembles "Captain America: The First Avenger." I am not crazy about Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman.
---------------
MOVIES - From ComicBook: DC Films releases logos from upcoming movies, including Flash and Cyborg.
---------------
MOVIES - From YahooMovies: Jennifer Lawrence to play Fidel Castro's lover in a film written by "American Hustle" scribe, Eric Warren Singer.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooMovies: See the first "Suicide Squad" trailer.
---------------
OSCAR - From YahooMovies: David Oyelowo speaks on #OscarsSoWhite.
---------------
COMICS - From CBR: Steve Rogers to return as Captain America.
---------------
POLITICS - From RSN: Michael Moore calls for President Obama to go to Flint, Michigan in the middle of water crisis.
---------------
AWARDS - From Variety: "Carol" dominates Dorian Awards.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooTV: See the first official picture of the entire Justice League team of DC Films.
---------------
COMICS - From CBB: My review of Vol. 10 of the manga, Terra Formars.
---------------
OSCARS - From YahooTV: I am a fan of Whoopi Goldberg, but she made an ass of herself in this #OscarsSoWhite debate on "The View."
---------------
OSCARS - From Variety: George Clooney says we're moving in the wrong direction, concerning #OscarsSoWhite.
---------------
MOVIES - From BleedingCool: Vin Diesel posts "Fast 8" poster on Instagram.
---------------
TV - From Vulture: Cuba Gooding, Jr. talks about playing O.J. Simpson in FX's upcoming, "The People vs. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story."
---------------
RACE - From HuffingtonPost: Back in December, a Black woman died after being forcibly removed from hospital.
---------------
OBIT - From YahooMusic: The singer-songwriter and musician Glenn Frey has died at the age of 67 (Monday, January 18, 2016). He was a founding member of The Eagles, one of the most popular recording acts in the history of music. I still really love his solo hit song, "The Heat is On," the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack.
---------------
CULTURE - From YahooCelebrity: Hannibal Buress still dealing with the aftermath of his Bill Cosby rape joke that started the legendary comedians downfall.
---------------
POLITICS - From RSN: Bernie Sanders healthcare plan would cover everyone (not Hillary's) and it would be administered by the federal government and not by the states... according to RSN.
---------------
OSCARS - From Variety: Spike Lee and Jada Pinkett Smith call for boycott of 88th Oscars.
---------------
SPORTS - From NBCSports: Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin sheds tears in the locker room after his team's painful loss to the Denver Broncos. It is not his fault that the NFL is in the tank for another Brady-Manning matchup.
---------------
CULTURE - From TheVox: Her husband was a rapist, yet the wife also had to answer for his crimes, although she had committed no crime.
---------------
AWARDS - From Variety: 2016 Critics Choice Awards winners.
---------------
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Johnny Bullet (#57) in English
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Johnny Bullet (#57) in French
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Constant (#23 - Chapter Two, Page 1)
---------------
CULTURE - From NRM: Go to the Norman Rockwell Museum to see his classic Civil Rights painting, "The Problem We All Live With."
---------------
MOVIES: From BoxOfficeMojo: "Ride Along 2" wins the 01/15 to 01/17/2016 weekend box office with an estimated take of $34 million. Monday will also be part of the Martin Luther King holiday weekend.
---------------
NEWS - From YahooNews: This is the 30th anniversary of MLK Day, and in South Carolina, the celebration is even bigger now that the Confederate flag over the capitol building was taken down.
---------------
MOVIES - From SlashFilm: Tyler Perry on why he joined TMNT 2 and on Oscars and how to fix lack of diversity.
---------------
COMIC BOOKS - From YahooMovies: The new posters for the "Suicide Squad" film debut.
---------------
NEWS - From ThinkProgess: Another video that Chicago is forced to release shows a police officer shooting an unarmed black teenager.
---------------
CULTURE - From ThinkProgess: The phony debate about political correctness. " It's a get out of jail free card for bigotry, sexism, and lying."
NEWS - From TheIntercept: What is the real story about the U.S. Navy boats that "drifted" into Iranian waters.
---------------
From RSN: A doctor who treats concussions and is an NFL fans says the league is unethical.
---------------
COMICS - From WarrenEllis: Warren Ellis updates his readers and shares 3 questions he asked author Joe Hill (Stephen King's son who is also an author).
---------------
NEWS - From RSN: Flint lives in fear of lead from the drinking water, and the citizens fear that they may already have lead poisoning.
---------------
POLITICS: From YahooNews: Did you know that three Southern states honor Confederate General Robert E. Lee on Martin Luther King Day? Mississippi (of course), Alabama (no doubt), and Arkansas (typical). Well, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson want to change that.
---------------
OSCARS - From GuardianUS: White Hollywood parents of black children should speak about diversity for awards.
---------------
POLITICS - From USUncut: 5 things to know about the Oregon militia movement.
---------------
WORLD NEWS - From LATimes: The U.S. and Iran swap prisoners.
---------------
COMICS - From CBR: Jim Johnson reviews the relaunch of the Uncanny X-Men comic book.
---------------
COMICS FILM - From CBR: There is a petition for a PG-13 cut of the upcoming "Deadpool" film, which is being released with an "R" rating.
---------------
COMICS TV - From CBR: FX's X-Men-related series, "Legion" will take place in an "alternate universe" not connected to the X-Men film series.
---------------
MOVIES - From ThePlaylist: 15 great and unique directors who have never received a best director Oscar nomination.
---------------
TV - From ThePlaylist: Netflix is developing a "Punisher" series.
---------------
OSCARS - From BoxOfficeMojo: A look at the 2016 best picture Oscar nominees and their grosses.
OSCARS: From TheDailyBeast: The Oscars are racist...
---------------
From YouTube: "13 Hours" featurettes - Tig & Dominic; Tanto & Pablo; “Oz & Max” Featurette - https://youtu.be/mSdYKWjoHeg
POLITICS: From RSN: Michael Moore - Flint water poisoning is a "racial crime."
---------------
MOVIES: From Variety: Sony rebooting Jim Henson's "Labyrinth."
---------------
COMICS - From CBR: Kevin Smith says that DC Entertainment higher-ups are considering a DC Movie/TV crossover for sometime in the future.
--------------
POLITICS - From YahooNews: GOP presidential candidates have been quiet about Flint Michigan water crisis. So has Faux News.
---------------
AWARDS - From BlackReelAwards: 16th annual Black Reel Awards nominations.
---------------
COMICS - From CinemaBlend: Deadpool movie looking at a big opening weekend.
---------------
OSCARS - From ATTN: New York Post has fun with the blizzard and #OscarsSoWhite.
---------------
RACE - From ThinkProgress: Once upon a time, armed black people bucked the government, and they were killed - unlike the White militia at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon.
Speaking of - From ThinkProgress: Ursula K. Le Guin sacks Ammon Bundy and his Klan-lings and the newspaper that parrots their nonsense.
---------------
POLITICS - From RSN: Oliver Stone speaks of war-mongering on the part of both Republicans and Democrats.
---------------
CULTURE - From USMagazine: "Actress" Stacey Dash hits back at BET.
---------------
CRIME - From YahooNews: Ex-Oklahoma City police officer, Daniel Holtzclaw, preyed on women in poor neighborhoods and raped at least 13. He was recently sentenced to 263 years in prison.
---------------
CULTURE: From TheVox: Netflix's "Making a Murderer" reveals the systematic problems of the American justice system.
---------------
MOVIES - From EcoWatch: Leonardo DiCaprio says that film "The Revenant" drove home the need to take action on climate change.
---------------
COMICS: From BusinessInsider: Warner Bros. is planning 11 superhero movies through 2020, and most look horrible.
---------------
MUSIC: From TheVillageVoice: The 2015 Pazz & Jop Critics Poll and the Year in Music.
---------------
TRAILER - From Vulture: The red band trailer for Key & Peele's upcoming film, Keanu, has been released.
---------------
OSCARS - From Vulture: Oscar nominee, this year, Mark Ruffalo, is weighing skipping the Oscar ceremony.
---------------
OSCARS - From YahooTV: Will Smith will not attend this year's Oscar ceremony, as his wife is skipping the ceremony also.
---------------
COMICS - From ComicBookBin: Herve St. Louis, the owner of the Bin and the creator of the webcomic strip, "Johnny Bullet," talks about the difficulties of reader surveys.
---------------
COMICS - From BleedingCool: The best work I've ever done says Hellboy creator, Mike Mignola.
---------------
MOVIES - From THR: Nate Turner talks about his hot Sundance film, "Birth of a Nation."
---------------
MOVIES - From THR: Paramount has taken "Terminator 2" off its release schedule and replaced it with the "Baywatch" movie - which I did not know was going to happen.
---------------
OSCARS - From THR: Academy members defend votes - "to imply we are racists is extremely offensive."
Also From THR: Scott Feinberg, awards analyst, on Oscar omissions.
---------------
STAR WARS - From YahooMovies: Star Wars Episode 8 has a new release date moving from May 2017 to December 15, 2017.
---------------
MOVIES - From TheGuardian: Jamie Foxx with the help of an as-yet unnamed paramedic pulled a young man from a burning car.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooMovies: See the "Wonder Woman" clip that played on The CW. The movie resembles "Captain America: The First Avenger." I am not crazy about Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman.
---------------
MOVIES - From ComicBook: DC Films releases logos from upcoming movies, including Flash and Cyborg.
---------------
MOVIES - From YahooMovies: Jennifer Lawrence to play Fidel Castro's lover in a film written by "American Hustle" scribe, Eric Warren Singer.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooMovies: See the first "Suicide Squad" trailer.
---------------
OSCAR - From YahooMovies: David Oyelowo speaks on #OscarsSoWhite.
---------------
COMICS - From CBR: Steve Rogers to return as Captain America.
---------------
POLITICS - From RSN: Michael Moore calls for President Obama to go to Flint, Michigan in the middle of water crisis.
---------------
AWARDS - From Variety: "Carol" dominates Dorian Awards.
---------------
COMICS - From YahooTV: See the first official picture of the entire Justice League team of DC Films.
---------------
COMICS - From CBB: My review of Vol. 10 of the manga, Terra Formars.
---------------
OSCARS - From YahooTV: I am a fan of Whoopi Goldberg, but she made an ass of herself in this #OscarsSoWhite debate on "The View."
---------------
OSCARS - From Variety: George Clooney says we're moving in the wrong direction, concerning #OscarsSoWhite.
---------------
MOVIES - From BleedingCool: Vin Diesel posts "Fast 8" poster on Instagram.
---------------
TV - From Vulture: Cuba Gooding, Jr. talks about playing O.J. Simpson in FX's upcoming, "The People vs. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story."
---------------
RACE - From HuffingtonPost: Back in December, a Black woman died after being forcibly removed from hospital.
---------------
OBIT - From YahooMusic: The singer-songwriter and musician Glenn Frey has died at the age of 67 (Monday, January 18, 2016). He was a founding member of The Eagles, one of the most popular recording acts in the history of music. I still really love his solo hit song, "The Heat is On," the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack.
---------------
CULTURE - From YahooCelebrity: Hannibal Buress still dealing with the aftermath of his Bill Cosby rape joke that started the legendary comedians downfall.
---------------
POLITICS - From RSN: Bernie Sanders healthcare plan would cover everyone (not Hillary's) and it would be administered by the federal government and not by the states... according to RSN.
---------------
OSCARS - From Variety: Spike Lee and Jada Pinkett Smith call for boycott of 88th Oscars.
---------------
SPORTS - From NBCSports: Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin sheds tears in the locker room after his team's painful loss to the Denver Broncos. It is not his fault that the NFL is in the tank for another Brady-Manning matchup.
---------------
CULTURE - From TheVox: Her husband was a rapist, yet the wife also had to answer for his crimes, although she had committed no crime.
---------------
AWARDS - From Variety: 2016 Critics Choice Awards winners.
---------------
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Johnny Bullet (#57) in English
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Johnny Bullet (#57) in French
COMICS - From CBB: New episode of Constant (#23 - Chapter Two, Page 1)
---------------
CULTURE - From NRM: Go to the Norman Rockwell Museum to see his classic Civil Rights painting, "The Problem We All Live With."
---------------
MOVIES: From BoxOfficeMojo: "Ride Along 2" wins the 01/15 to 01/17/2016 weekend box office with an estimated take of $34 million. Monday will also be part of the Martin Luther King holiday weekend.
---------------
NEWS - From YahooNews: This is the 30th anniversary of MLK Day, and in South Carolina, the celebration is even bigger now that the Confederate flag over the capitol building was taken down.
---------------
MOVIES - From SlashFilm: Tyler Perry on why he joined TMNT 2 and on Oscars and how to fix lack of diversity.
---------------
COMIC BOOKS - From YahooMovies: The new posters for the "Suicide Squad" film debut.
---------------
NEWS - From ThinkProgess: Another video that Chicago is forced to release shows a police officer shooting an unarmed black teenager.
---------------
CULTURE - From ThinkProgess: The phony debate about political correctness. " It's a get out of jail free card for bigotry, sexism, and lying."
NEWS - From TheIntercept: What is the real story about the U.S. Navy boats that "drifted" into Iranian waters.
---------------
From RSN: A doctor who treats concussions and is an NFL fans says the league is unethical.
---------------
COMICS - From WarrenEllis: Warren Ellis updates his readers and shares 3 questions he asked author Joe Hill (Stephen King's son who is also an author).
---------------
NEWS - From RSN: Flint lives in fear of lead from the drinking water, and the citizens fear that they may already have lead poisoning.
---------------
POLITICS: From YahooNews: Did you know that three Southern states honor Confederate General Robert E. Lee on Martin Luther King Day? Mississippi (of course), Alabama (no doubt), and Arkansas (typical). Well, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson want to change that.
---------------
OSCARS - From GuardianUS: White Hollywood parents of black children should speak about diversity for awards.
---------------
POLITICS - From USUncut: 5 things to know about the Oregon militia movement.
---------------
WORLD NEWS - From LATimes: The U.S. and Iran swap prisoners.
---------------
COMICS - From CBR: Jim Johnson reviews the relaunch of the Uncanny X-Men comic book.
---------------
COMICS FILM - From CBR: There is a petition for a PG-13 cut of the upcoming "Deadpool" film, which is being released with an "R" rating.
---------------
COMICS TV - From CBR: FX's X-Men-related series, "Legion" will take place in an "alternate universe" not connected to the X-Men film series.
---------------
MOVIES - From ThePlaylist: 15 great and unique directors who have never received a best director Oscar nomination.
---------------
TV - From ThePlaylist: Netflix is developing a "Punisher" series.
---------------
OSCARS - From BoxOfficeMojo: A look at the 2016 best picture Oscar nominees and their grosses.
OSCARS: From TheDailyBeast: The Oscars are racist...
---------------
From YouTube: "13 Hours" featurettes - Tig & Dominic; Tanto & Pablo; “Oz & Max” Featurette - https://youtu.be/mSdYKWjoHeg
Thursday, June 25, 2015
"Magic Mike XXL" Soundtrack Drops Trou Tuesday, June 30th
Magic Mike XXL Soundtrack Available June 30
Features Music from the Film, Including Matt Bomer Singing “Heaven” and “(Untitled) How Does It Feel” and Donald Glover Performing “Marry You”
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WaterTower Music today announced the release of the soundtrack to the hotly anticipated sequel “MAGIC MIKE XXL,” in theaters July 1, starring Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias, Amber Heard, Donald Glover, Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, Michael Strahan, Andie MacDowell, Elizabeth Banks, and Jada Pinkett Smith.
“Both Matt’s version of the classic ‘Heaven’ and Donald’s ‘Marry You’ contribute to this outstanding soundtrack collection of awesome, timeless songs.”
The soundtrack includes several songs featured in dance sequences from the film, as well as songs performed on screen by Matt Bomer, who sings “Heaven” (originally performed by Bryan Adams) and “(Untitled) How Does It Feel” (originally recorded by D’Angelo); and Donald Glover, who performs “Marry You” (originally recorded by Bruno Mars).
“It’s such a privilege to have multi-dimensional talents like Matt Bomer and Donald Glover exclusively performing songs that take the listener back to amazing and fun musical moments in this film,” commented WaterTower Music Executive Vice President Jason Linn. “Both Matt’s version of the classic ‘Heaven’ and Donald’s ‘Marry You’ contribute to this outstanding soundtrack collection of awesome, timeless songs.”
The Magic Mike XXL soundtrack will be available at all retailers June 30. The CD version contains a special pull out calendar poster. The full track list is as follows:
Pony - Ginuwine
Ain’t There Something Money Can’t Buy - Nick Waterhouse
I Want It That Way - Backstreet Boys
Freek’n You - Jodeci
Sex You - Bando Jonez
Give It To The People - The Child of Lov
Untitled (How Does It Feel) - Matt Bomer
Marry You - Donald Glover
Anywhere - 112
All The Time - Jeremih feat. Lil Wayne and Natasha Mosley
Cookie - R. Kelly
Gooey - Glass Animals
Heaven - Matt Bomer
A Special Edition of the soundtrack with bonus songs will be available exclusively at Target and is available here.
“Magic Mike XXL” reunites Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez and Gabriel Iglesias, stars of the 2012 worldwide hit “Magic Mike.” Picking up the story three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, “Magic Mike XXL” finds the remaining Kings of Tampa likewise ready to throw in the towel. But they want to do it their way: burning down the house in one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach, and with legendary headliner Magic Mike sharing the spotlight with them. On the road to their final show, with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways.
“Magic Mike XXL” was directed by Emmy Award winner Gregory Jacobs (“Behind the Candelabra”), from a screenplay by Reid Carolin. It was produced by Nick Wechsler, Gregory Jacobs, Channing Tatum and Reid Carolin, with Steven Soderbergh serving as executive producer. A Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, the film is being distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.magicmikemovie.com.
------------------
Features Music from the Film, Including Matt Bomer Singing “Heaven” and “(Untitled) How Does It Feel” and Donald Glover Performing “Marry You”
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WaterTower Music today announced the release of the soundtrack to the hotly anticipated sequel “MAGIC MIKE XXL,” in theaters July 1, starring Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias, Amber Heard, Donald Glover, Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, Michael Strahan, Andie MacDowell, Elizabeth Banks, and Jada Pinkett Smith.
“Both Matt’s version of the classic ‘Heaven’ and Donald’s ‘Marry You’ contribute to this outstanding soundtrack collection of awesome, timeless songs.”
The soundtrack includes several songs featured in dance sequences from the film, as well as songs performed on screen by Matt Bomer, who sings “Heaven” (originally performed by Bryan Adams) and “(Untitled) How Does It Feel” (originally recorded by D’Angelo); and Donald Glover, who performs “Marry You” (originally recorded by Bruno Mars).
“It’s such a privilege to have multi-dimensional talents like Matt Bomer and Donald Glover exclusively performing songs that take the listener back to amazing and fun musical moments in this film,” commented WaterTower Music Executive Vice President Jason Linn. “Both Matt’s version of the classic ‘Heaven’ and Donald’s ‘Marry You’ contribute to this outstanding soundtrack collection of awesome, timeless songs.”
The Magic Mike XXL soundtrack will be available at all retailers June 30. The CD version contains a special pull out calendar poster. The full track list is as follows:
Pony - Ginuwine
Ain’t There Something Money Can’t Buy - Nick Waterhouse
I Want It That Way - Backstreet Boys
Freek’n You - Jodeci
Sex You - Bando Jonez
Give It To The People - The Child of Lov
Untitled (How Does It Feel) - Matt Bomer
Marry You - Donald Glover
Anywhere - 112
All The Time - Jeremih feat. Lil Wayne and Natasha Mosley
Cookie - R. Kelly
Gooey - Glass Animals
Heaven - Matt Bomer
A Special Edition of the soundtrack with bonus songs will be available exclusively at Target and is available here.
“Magic Mike XXL” reunites Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez and Gabriel Iglesias, stars of the 2012 worldwide hit “Magic Mike.” Picking up the story three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, “Magic Mike XXL” finds the remaining Kings of Tampa likewise ready to throw in the towel. But they want to do it their way: burning down the house in one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach, and with legendary headliner Magic Mike sharing the spotlight with them. On the road to their final show, with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways.
“Magic Mike XXL” was directed by Emmy Award winner Gregory Jacobs (“Behind the Candelabra”), from a screenplay by Reid Carolin. It was produced by Nick Wechsler, Gregory Jacobs, Channing Tatum and Reid Carolin, with Steven Soderbergh serving as executive producer. A Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, the film is being distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.magicmikemovie.com.
------------------
Friday, March 20, 2015
BET Announces #BLACKGIRLSROCK Celebrants
Ava DuVernay, Jada Pinkett Smith, Cicely Tyson, Erykah Badu, Dr. Helene D. Gayle and Nadia Lopez Honored as This Year’s “Black Girls Rock!™” Celebrants
Ciara, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Fantasia, Sheila E. and Lalah Hathaway Confirmed to Rock the Stage During “Black Girls Rock!™” 2015
Hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King, “Black Girls Rock!™” Will Tape March 28, 2015 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center
#BLACKGIRLSROCK
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks is excited to reveal this year’s “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” 2015 celebrants:
Cicely Tyson, Living Legend Award
Ava DuVernay, Shot Caller Award
Dr. Helene D. Gayle, Social Humanitarian Award
Erykah Badu, Rock Star Award
Nadia Lopez, Change Agent Award
Jada Pinkett Smith, Star Power Award
Additionally, Ciara, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Fantasia, Sheila E. and Lalah Hathaway will be hitting the stage as performers for “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” 2015 along with surprise musical performances. The televised special celebrates its fifth year honoring the triumphs of inspirational African-American women who are trailblazers in the areas of art, philanthropy, sports, and community service. As previously announced, Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King will co-host the event at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Tune in to watch “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 at 7 pm/ET.
“BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” nationally broadcast its televised debut on BET Networks in 2010. Going into its fifth year on TV, the dynamic award show continues to represent a revolutionary landmark in media, diverging from traditional award shows by honoring powerful women through didactic, entertaining, and inspiring content. “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” will air on BET Networks this year for the first time since 2013 and will premiere on BET Networks in the UK on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 9pm BST (check local listings).
For updates or more information about “BLACK GIRLS ROCK! ™” visit http://www.BET.com/blackgirlsrock and www.blackgirlsrock.org
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:
• On Twitter by using hashtag: #BlackGirlsRock; follow us @BET and @BLACKGIRLSROCK
• On Facebook by liking the fan pages at facebook.com/BET and facebook.com/BLACKGIRLSROCK
• On Instagram @betnetworks and @BLACKGIRLSROCK
ABOUT BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™:
Founded by celebrity DJ and philanthropist, Beverly Bond, BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ is a multifaceted movement dedicated to shifting the culture of media images and empowering women and girls. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, that has been committed to enriching girls through leadership, education, and positive identity development programs since 2006. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ Inc. builds the self-esteem and self-worth of young women of color by changing their outlook on life, broadening their horizons and providing tools for self-empowerment and efficacy. For additional information on BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™, visit http://www.blackgirlsrock.org
ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
ABOUT NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey -- where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey’s Town Square, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the State’s and the world’s best artists, while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted over seven million visitors (including more than one million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit http://www.njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information.
Follow us @BET_PR
------------
Ciara, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Fantasia, Sheila E. and Lalah Hathaway Confirmed to Rock the Stage During “Black Girls Rock!™” 2015
Hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King, “Black Girls Rock!™” Will Tape March 28, 2015 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center
#BLACKGIRLSROCK
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET Networks is excited to reveal this year’s “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” 2015 celebrants:
Cicely Tyson, Living Legend Award
Ava DuVernay, Shot Caller Award
Dr. Helene D. Gayle, Social Humanitarian Award
Erykah Badu, Rock Star Award
Nadia Lopez, Change Agent Award
Jada Pinkett Smith, Star Power Award
Additionally, Ciara, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Faith Evans, Fantasia, Sheila E. and Lalah Hathaway will be hitting the stage as performers for “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” 2015 along with surprise musical performances. The televised special celebrates its fifth year honoring the triumphs of inspirational African-American women who are trailblazers in the areas of art, philanthropy, sports, and community service. As previously announced, Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King will co-host the event at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Tune in to watch “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 at 7 pm/ET.
“BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” nationally broadcast its televised debut on BET Networks in 2010. Going into its fifth year on TV, the dynamic award show continues to represent a revolutionary landmark in media, diverging from traditional award shows by honoring powerful women through didactic, entertaining, and inspiring content. “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” will air on BET Networks this year for the first time since 2013 and will premiere on BET Networks in the UK on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 9pm BST (check local listings).
For updates or more information about “BLACK GIRLS ROCK! ™” visit http://www.BET.com/blackgirlsrock and www.blackgirlsrock.org
Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:
• On Twitter by using hashtag: #BlackGirlsRock; follow us @BET and @BLACKGIRLSROCK
• On Facebook by liking the fan pages at facebook.com/BET and facebook.com/BLACKGIRLSROCK
• On Instagram @betnetworks and @BLACKGIRLSROCK
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Tuesday, September 30, 2014
"Magic Mike" Sequel Begins Production; Due July 1st, 2015
“Magic Mike XXL” Takes Center Stage
Production on Sequel Begins September 29 with Returning Cast, Plus New Stars, for Director Gregory Jacobs
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Magic Mike” stars Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez and Gabriel Iglesias are reuniting for the hotly anticipated sequel “Magic Mike XXL,” beginning production on September 29th, for director Gregory Jacobs. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President of Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.
“‘Magic Mike’ was a tremendous crowd-pleaser, scoring with critics and audiences across the board. We look forward to continuing the magic with so many of the talented individuals who made that film such a success—both in front of and behind the camera—and welcome these wonderful additions to the cast.”
Joining the returning cast, in brand new roles, will be Elizabeth Banks (“The Hunger Games” franchise), Donald Glover (“Community”), Amber Heard (“The Rum Diary”), Andie MacDowell (“Footloose”), Jada Pinkett Smith (“Gotham”) and Michael Strahan (“Live with Kelly and Michael”).
“Magic Mike XXL” is set for release on Wednesday, July 1, 2015.
The new film will be directed and produced by Emmy Award winner Gregory Jacobs (“Behind the Candelabra”), who served as a producer on “Magic Mike,” as well as numerous features in a long-running collaboration with Steven Soderbergh. “Magic Mike XXL” also reunites “Magic Mike” producers Nick Wechsler, Channing Tatum and Reid Carolin, with a screenplay by Carolin. Steven Soderbergh, who directed the first film, will executive produce.
Picking up the story three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, “Magic Mike XXL” finds the remaining Kings of Tampa likewise ready to throw in the towel. But they want to do it their way: burning down the house in one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach, and with legendary headliner Magic Mike sharing the spotlight with them. On the road to their final show, with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways.
In making the announcement, Silverman said, “‘Magic Mike’ was a tremendous crowd-pleaser, scoring with critics and audiences across the board. We look forward to continuing the magic with so many of the talented individuals who made that film such a success—both in front of and behind the camera—and welcome these wonderful additions to the cast.”
Stated Kroll, “‘Magic Mike’ delighted audiences everywhere with a fun and fascinating glimpse into a world few people ever see, becoming both a critical and commercial triumph. We’re thrilled to bring these memorable characters back to the big screen, along with some exciting new ones, in a story that will take them even further.”
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Production on Sequel Begins September 29 with Returning Cast, Plus New Stars, for Director Gregory Jacobs
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Magic Mike” stars Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez and Gabriel Iglesias are reuniting for the hotly anticipated sequel “Magic Mike XXL,” beginning production on September 29th, for director Gregory Jacobs. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President of Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.
“‘Magic Mike’ was a tremendous crowd-pleaser, scoring with critics and audiences across the board. We look forward to continuing the magic with so many of the talented individuals who made that film such a success—both in front of and behind the camera—and welcome these wonderful additions to the cast.”
Joining the returning cast, in brand new roles, will be Elizabeth Banks (“The Hunger Games” franchise), Donald Glover (“Community”), Amber Heard (“The Rum Diary”), Andie MacDowell (“Footloose”), Jada Pinkett Smith (“Gotham”) and Michael Strahan (“Live with Kelly and Michael”).
“Magic Mike XXL” is set for release on Wednesday, July 1, 2015.
The new film will be directed and produced by Emmy Award winner Gregory Jacobs (“Behind the Candelabra”), who served as a producer on “Magic Mike,” as well as numerous features in a long-running collaboration with Steven Soderbergh. “Magic Mike XXL” also reunites “Magic Mike” producers Nick Wechsler, Channing Tatum and Reid Carolin, with a screenplay by Carolin. Steven Soderbergh, who directed the first film, will executive produce.
Picking up the story three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, “Magic Mike XXL” finds the remaining Kings of Tampa likewise ready to throw in the towel. But they want to do it their way: burning down the house in one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach, and with legendary headliner Magic Mike sharing the spotlight with them. On the road to their final show, with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways.
In making the announcement, Silverman said, “‘Magic Mike’ was a tremendous crowd-pleaser, scoring with critics and audiences across the board. We look forward to continuing the magic with so many of the talented individuals who made that film such a success—both in front of and behind the camera—and welcome these wonderful additions to the cast.”
Stated Kroll, “‘Magic Mike’ delighted audiences everywhere with a fun and fascinating glimpse into a world few people ever see, becoming both a critical and commercial triumph. We’re thrilled to bring these memorable characters back to the big screen, along with some exciting new ones, in a story that will take them even further.”
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Thursday, November 7, 2013
Review: "The Matrix Revolutions" is the Good with the Bad
The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
Running time: 129 minutes (2 hours, nine minutes)
MPAA – R for sci-fi violence and brief sexual content
WRITERS/DIRECTORS: The Wachowski Brothers
PRODUCER: Joel Silver
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Bill Pope (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Zach Staenberg
COMPOSER: Don Davis
SCI-FI/ACTION/THRILLER
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Collin Chou, Mary Alice, Tanveer Atwal, Helmut Bakaitas, Monica Bellucci, Nona M. Gaye, Nathaniel Lees, Harold Perrineau, Bruce Spense, Lambert Wilson, and Anthony Zerbe
The subject of this movie review is The Matrix Revolutions, a 2003 science fiction action movie from filmmaker siblings Andy and Larry (now Lana) Wachowski. It is the third film in The Matrix film franchise, and it is both a direct sequel and continuation of The Matrix Reloaded, which was released six months earlier. The Matrix Revolutions focuses on two main plots: the attempt by the human city of Zion to defend itself against a massive invasion of machines and also Neo’s fight to end the human-machine war by battling the rogue Agent Smith.
The Matrix Revolutions end The Matrix trilogy not with a bang but with a whimper, a dud, and a plop. It’s largely a bore, and, while not as talky as the first, the film drags like a wet rag when it does try to be all philosophical. Like Once Upon a Time in Mexico, The Matrix Revolutions is an average, meandering, dull film made by very talented filmmakers who know how to use all kinds of gadgets to make movies, but can’t tell a good story. TMR tries to resolve all the plotlines, while cheekily leaving just enough unresolved to suggest that it is a never-ending story or, at least, that there will be more movies born of this immense cash cow.
The machines finally invade Zion, and human inhabitants of the underground sanctuary are wildly overmatched. Meanwhile, Neo (Keanu Reeves) not only has to battle Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving), who has become a self-replicating virus that is rapidly taking over the Matrix, but Neo also has to travel to the Machine City and make a peace deal with the machine central intelligence. The Oracle (played by Mary Alice, as the original, Gloria Foster, died during filming of the second film), an important (but minor character), plays a larger role in Revolutions as she tries to save the Matrix from all the various rival programs that are attempting to have their own way in the artificial construct into which most of humanity is jacked.
Press for the film is telling audiences that The Matrix Reloaded was about life and that this last film Revolutions is about death. There is death here, but it’s mostly in a lame script and poorly executed concept. The ideas behind The Matrix are grand and interesting. The writer/directors Larry and Andy Wachowski, however, just don’t always know quite how to find that straight line that goes from concept to final product.
Revolutions is dry and slow, and the mish mash stew of Eastern philosophy and computer jargon is tasteless. The cinematography by Bill Pope is lush a landscape of rich and sexy, dark watercolors. The battle between the humans and sentinels in Zion is a spectacular blend of CGI, bravura editing, and human emoting that might not have viewers comparing it to the battles in Braveheart or Saving Private Ryan, but those familiar with video games will recognize this as the most awesome sci-fi battle put on film to date. The leather bar segment and the final duel between Neo and Agent Smith are also fairly spectacular.
If anything, we can always remember The Matrix films for their groundbreaking and mind bending visual effects. There truly is no doubt that these films are three of the most important movies films in advancing the technology and craft of movie making.
If you’ve seen the other two, there’s no point in not finishing this. The Matrix Revolutions, however, is a mediocre movie. The surface pyrotechnics are just fine, but the meat and bones of the film – the story, is weak and lousy; in the end, this is not a tale, but a collection of cool scenes that would be right at home in a video game.
This is the film result of two indulgent filmmakers who needed to be reigned in before their egos and unchecked imaginations went wild and made crap. Sometimes, someone, even a studio executive – a suit, needs to harness the madness of young filmmakers. They owe the audience that much. It’s not at all acceptable that the price of admission buys the messy product of two directors who needed to take their fantasy back to the drawing board one more time.
5 of 10
C+
NOTES:
2004 Black Reel Awards: 1 nomination: “Film: Best Supporting Actress” (Mary Alice)
2004 Image Awards: 3 nominations: “Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture” (Laurence Fishburne), “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture” (Nona Gaye), and “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture” (Jada Pinkett Smith)
2004 Razzie Awards: 1 nomination: “Worst Director” (Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski for The Matrix Reloaded)
Updated: Thursday, November 07, 2013
The text is copyright © 2013 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Review: "Free Angela and All Political Prisoners" Reveals Angela Davis
Free Angela and All Political Prisoners (2012)
Running time: 102 minutes (1 hour, 42 minutes)
WRITER/DIRECTOR: Shola Lynch
PRODUCERS: Carole Lambert, Shola Lynch, Carine Ruszniewski, and Sidra Smith
CINEMATOGRAPHERS: Sandi Sissel and Bradford Young
EDITORS: Lewis Erskine and Marion Monnier with Sheila Shirazi
COMPOSER: Vernon Reid
DOCUMENTARY – History, Politics, Crime
Starring: Angela Davis, Leo Branton, Deacon Alexander, Bettina Apthecker, Judge Richard E. Arnason, Lowell Berman, Margaret Burnham, Earl Caldwell, Elisabeth Coleman, Fania Davis, Robert McCartin, Stephen Shames, and Doris Walker
Free Angela and All Political Prisoners is a 2012 documentary film from writer-director Shola Lynch. The film focuses on a young college professor named Angela Davis and how her social activism led to her being implicated in a botched kidnapping and being placed on the FBI’s 10 most wanted list.
The film opened at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival, and made its theatrical debut in the United States in April 2013. Free Angela and All Political Prisoners gained some notice because director Shola Lynch received financial backing to make the movie from actress Jada Pinkett Smith, who later brought in her husband, actor Will Smith, and recording artist and businessman, Jay-Z, as additional backers. Oscar-winning filmmaker, Paul Haggis, was also a supporter of the film.
Born January 26, 1944, Angela Yvonne Davis, best known as simply “Angela Davis,” is an American political activist, scholar, and author. During the 1960s, Davis returned to the United States after spending time in Germany. She became a nationally known activist and radical; she was also a leader in the Communist Party USA. It was her close relations with the Black Panther Party (although she was never an official member of the party) and her work for prisoner rights that brought her to prominence and earned her notoriety in establishment circles.
On August 7, 1970, at the Marin County court house, a botched kidnapping attempt ended with a shootout that left four people, including a judge, dead. Davis was a close associate of one of the dead kidnappers, so the state of California brought conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder charges against her – all of which were punishable by the death penalty. Davis became a fugitive and, at the time, the third woman to have her name appear on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitive List.
Free Angela and All Political Prisoners gives an account of the kidnapping, Davis’ flight from arrest, the FBI manhunt for her, her arrest and imprisonment, and the subsequent trial. The film also chronicles Angela Davis’ life as a youth, a young scholar, and as a controversial young college professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
The pivotal events of Free Angela and All Political Prisoners begin with events that took place in 1969, when Davis was hired by UCLA. Her time as a professor is not the film’s central narrative, although this is not to say that the film is dry and boring for a time. However, this documentary does not really come to life, in a way that reflects the fiery young radical that Angela Davis was, until it starts to recount the various events related to Davis that occurred in 1972.
In early 1972, Caruthers, California dairy farmer, Rodger McAfee (or Roger McAfee), with the help of a wealthy businessman, paid just over $100,000 in bail money to get Davis released from the county jail, while she awaited trial for the Marin County courthouse incident. For me, this is when Free Angela and All Political Prisoners becomes energized as a narrative.
The elements of which director Shola Lynch makes best use in her film are the interviews, both new and archival. As by chance or by destiny, the subjects of the new interviews are either good storytellers or are exceptionally good at conveying information. I could listen to many of these interviewees for hours.
Archival interviews and news footage are also illuminating. Then California governor (and future President), Ronald Reagan, does not come out looking like a good guy in this film. He comes across as a pro-segregation-pro apartheid type who believes that Black people are second class citizens who don’t have full citizenship, and that outspoken people of color deserve imprisonment or even death. As for President Richard Nixon, the side of him that is an authoritarian, paranoid psycho is fully in evidence.
Simply because of the story it tells and the incidents it recounts, Free Angela and All Political Prisoners should be treated like an important book – available in every public library in the United States. All African-American parents should make sure that their children see this film. Even conservative Black people whose Uncle Tom tendencies might make them act as if what happened to Angela Davis never happens to black people should show this film to their children.
7 of 10
A-
Tuesday, November 05, 2013
The text is copyright © 2013 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Review: "The Matrix Reloaded" a Bold Vision
The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
Running time: 138 minutes (2 hours, 18 minutes)
MPAA – R for sci-fi violence and some sexuality
WRITERS/DIRECTORS: Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski
PRODUCER: Joel Silver
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Bill Pope (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Zach Staenberg
COMPOSER: Don Davis
SCI-FI/ACTION/THRILLER
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Harold Perrineau, Jr., Adrian Rayment, Neil Rayment, Gloria Foster, Roy Jones, Jr., Randall Duk Kim, Monica Bellucci, Nona M. Gaye, Helmut Bakaitis, Sing Ngai, Harry Lennix and Anthony Zerbe
The subject of this movie review is The Matrix Reloaded, a 2003 American and Australian science fiction action film from The Wachowski Brothers. It is the sequel to the Oscar-winning, The Matrix (1999). In the film, Neo and the rebel leaders race to stop an army of Sentinels from destroying the human sanctuary, Zion, while Neo’s dreams suggest that Trinity will suffer a dark fate.
I liked The Matrix Reloaded so much that I’d like to bow down at the feet of Andy and Larry Wachowski, the creators/writers/directors behind this brilliant science fiction/action cum philosophical film. This must be the most thoughtful, inventive, and entertaining science fiction film since 2001: A Space Odyssey. It’s amazing what the brothers did when their studios gave them a bigger budget, and when technology gave them the ability to add even greater mind-bending effects than what they had in the first film, The Matrix. Every time George Lucas got more money and improved technology, he only managed to either make a mediocre film or to actually take away from the wonder of the original Star Wars.
Neo (Keanu Reeves) and his compatriots: mentor Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), lover Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) and new crew mate Link (Harold Perrineau, Jr.) have 72 hours to save the day before 250,000 sentinel probes that are digging through the earth to reach Zion. Neo is also trouble Trinity of whom he’s been having bad dreams. The heroes must find The Keymaker (Randall Duk Kim) who knows the way to the Mainframe of the Matrix, the place where Neo might be able to save mankind.
At one point while I was watching this film, I could appreciate the creativity and the urge of the filmmakers to push the boundaries of visual effects, but I found The Matrix Reloaded to be a drag. It seemed to lack the freshness and surprise of the original. I was finding The Matrix Reloaded fresh in its throw-everything-against-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks way. The film seemed to have an awkward rhythm: talk, philosophy, talk, speech, fight, talk, fight, action scene, more talk, etc. This was a story about humans fighting machines, and the entire movie reeked of being artificial, more the result of computer effort than human effort.
I was wrong: human ingenuity and spirit make this film, with the computer as the left hand that helps the human right hand. Suddenly, it all clicked for me, and the film made so much sense. The rest of the way was a breathtaking experience for me. I had to struggle to keep up with the film’s rapid-fire pace. The action is quite intense, and the story is packed with human pathos, intrigue, and mystery. The Wachowski’s really dig into the idea that the Matrix is an artificial intelligence, but an intelligence nonetheless, and it has personalities – multiple personalities with individual agendas.
Great directing, great effects, excellent rhythm, inspired acting – what more do I need to say? This is good. Morpheus is even more mystical and even more frightening. Neo is super cool and super bad, a superman who can unleash his special abilities at the drop of a hat. Trinity is still hot, but she has a purpose; she’s more than just a babe/appendage. She’s the shoulder upon which Neo leans. I was also really surprised by how much the film delves into ideas of and philosophy about freedom, control, and choice.
No kidding, this is great stuff. It does have some weak points. It drags at times before it really gets rolling. Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) is now as much comic relief as he is a cool villain, whereas he was an all-dangerous and lethal adversary in the first film. And the Twins (Adrian and Neil Rayment), with their blond dreadlocks are good, but they ain’t all that.
There have many good sci-fi films, and there have been some very good sci-fi films, including The Matrix. I don’t know how I’ll feel a year later about this sequel, but right now, I think The Matrix Reloaded is one of the truly great sci-fi films, and probably the best action movie ever made. Although The Matrix Reloaded ends in a cliffhanger, it stands on its own, just whetting your appetite for more. There are enough new revelations about the characters and about the Matrix to keep your head spinning until the next chapter.
9 of 10
A+
NOTES:
2004 Black Reel Awards: 1 nomination: “Best Supporting Actress” (Gloria Foster)
2004 Razzie Awards: 1 nomination: “Worst Director” (Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski – also for The Matrix Revolutions-2003)
Monday, October 22, 2012
Review: "Madagascar 3" is DreamWorks Animation's Best to Date
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 79 (of 2012) by Leroy Douresseaux
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (2012)
Running time: 93 minutes (1 hour, 43 minutes)
MPAA – PG for mild crude humor
DIRECTORS: Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, and Conrad Vernon
WRITERS: Eric Darnell and Noah Baumbach
PRODUCERS: Mireille Soria and Mark Swift
EDITOR: Nick Fletcher
COMPOSER: Hans Zimmer
ANIMATION/COMEDY/FANTASY/ACTION/FAMILY
Starring: (voices) Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric the Entertainer, Andy Richter, Tom McGrath, Frances McDormand, Jessica Chastain, Bryan Cranston, Martin Short, Chris Miller, Christopher Knights, John DiMaggio, Paz Vega, Frank Welker and Vinnie Jones
The subject of this movie review is Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, a 2012 3D computer-animated film from DreamWorks Animation. It is the third movie in the Madagascar film series, following Madagascar (2005) and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008). Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted finds Alex, Marty, Gloria and Melman on the run in Europe and hiding with a traveling circus, which needs their help.
Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller) was the king of New York City’s Central Park Zoo. A series of bizarre incidents found Alex and his friends: Marty the Zebra (Chris Rock), Melman the Giraffe (David Schwimmer), and Gloria the Hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith), as well as four crafty Penguins: Skipper (Tom McGrath), Kowalski (Chris Miller), Private (Christopher Knights), and Rico (John DiMaggio), stranded on the exotic island of Madagascar. They make new friends, the Madagascar lemurs: King Julien (Sacha Baron Cohen), Maurice (Cedric the Entertainer), and Mort (Andy Richter).
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted finds Alex, Marty, Gloria and Melman headed to Monaco, Monte Carlo in search of the penguins and their two chimpanzee companions, Mason and Phil. What they find is trouble in the form of Captain Chantal DuBois (Frances McDormand) of Monaco Animal Control. On the run from DuBois and her cohorts, Alex and company find a safe haven with Zaragoza Circus. The circus, which has seen better days, needs some help, but its animal denizens are suspicious of the newcomers. Alex sets out to reinvent the circus, a miracle that just may get him and his friends home – finally!
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted is the best film in the Madagascar franchise. I’d planned on seeing it in a theatre, but I wasn’t really that enthused about it. I rented Madagascar 3 on DVD, and gave the copy to my mother. After watching it, she wanted to know if she could keep the disc to watch it a second time. She rarely watches films a second time, so I knew something was up. After watching the first few minutes of the film, I knew that it was going to be good. By the time the action explodes in the Hotel De Paris sequence, I knew that this movie was going to be something special, and it is. Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted is the best film DreamWorks Animation has produced to date – even better than the exceptional Kung Fu Panda movies. What’s the difference between Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted and the earlier Madagascar films and most other DreamWorks’ cartoons? The difference is the writing/storytelling.
I’ve come across commentary that describes DreamWorks as the tech guys of computer animation and Pixar Animation Studios as the art of storytelling guys. There is some truth to that. DreamWorks is producing computer-animated films in which the quality of the animation in terms of movement of characters and objects is improving by sky-high leaps and bounds. The stories in Pixar’s films have heart and the characters almost seem like real people, as seen in the Toy Story films, Wall-E, and Up. These films captivate adults as much as they capture the imagination of children.
Europe’s Most Wanted has heart. The earlier Madagascar films relied on the personality quirks and the motivation and conflicts of the characters, but the plots and action weren’t as interesting or as funny as the characters. In fact, whenever the characters fell flat in the first two films, the plots could not rise to the level where the characters had been. The first film was interesting, and the second was not quite as good, but had its moments.
Europe’s Most Wanted has one great moment after another; the narrative is entrancing, and the action is exhilarating. This allows the characters, main and supporting, to shine, as excellent performers usually do when they have top-notch material. Of course, the animation is great, some of the best ever; it’s DreamWorks Animation, after all.
This movie also adds three fine new characters: Gia the Italian jaguar (Jessica Chastain), Vitaly the Russian tiger (Bryan Cranston), and Stefano the Italian sea lion (Martin Short). All three of the actors playing these characters give superb voice-acting performances. They help make Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted better than the earlier films – a lavish spectacle of animation brilliance. This story about the meaning of home and friendship is one of the great animated films in recent memory. I want to watch it again.
9 of 10
A+
Sunday, October 21, 2012
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