“The Forge” is another winner from The Kendrick Brothers
Christian filmmaker Alex Kendrick brings his latest faith-based film to the big screen in “The Forge” from Affirm. Alex pens the film’s screenplay with his brother Stephen. Isaiah Wright (Aspen Kennedy) is at a crossroads. Just a year out of high school, he has yet to chart a course for his future. His mother, Cynthia (Priscilla Shirer), is a dedicated and successful hairdresser who deeply believes in her son’s potential, a belief rooted in her unwavering faith. She prays tirelessly each day, hoping he’ll discover the right path. In an unexpected twist of fate, Isaiah meets Joshua Moore (Cameron Arnett), a seasoned and successful businessman who brings positive change into his life.
“The Clean up Crew” is a cinematic mess
Following the underwhelming ‘Cult Killer,’ director Jon Keeyes fails to deliver an enjoyable action film with ‘The Clean up Crew,’ released by Saban Films. The screenplay, penned by Matthew Rogers, features a cast including Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Swen Temmel, Ekaterina Baker, Academy Award winner Melissa Leo, and Antonio Banderas, who previously collaborated with Keeyes on ‘Cult Killer.’
Second Listen Sunday: Marques Houston, Veteran
Former teen idol Marques Houston had successfully transitioned to a credible R&B vocalist with their second solo album, “Naked,” in the fall of 2005. Houston continued to make a name for himself two years later with this third album, “Veteran,” this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday.
Slow Jam Saturday: Heatwave, “Look After Love”
For mainstream music fans, if you ask them to name a song from London disco-funk band Heatwave, the go-to answer is more than likely either “Boogie Nights,” “The Groove Line,” or the iconic ballad “Always and Forever.” So, while I could write a lengthy piece on “Always and Forever” for this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to highlight “Look After Love” from the band’s fifth album, 1982’s “Current.”
The Murder of Air McNair is another engaging entry in the Untold series
Directors Rodney Lucas and Taylor Ward team up for a compelling installment in Netflix’s “Untold” series with “Untold: The Murder of Air McNair.” This documentary delves into the tragic story of Air McNair’s murder, offering an in-depth exploration of the events surrounding this high-profile case.
Bel-Air continues to entertain with its junior season
As the summer of 2024 draws close, Season 3 of “Bel -Air” debuts on Peacock. The new season picks up a month after Season 2’s finale events when Will (Jabari Banks) inquired to Lisa (Simone Joy Jones) about summers in Bel Air. The audience is immediately plunged into the fun.
Daughters equally brings smiles and tears
The latest emotional documentary, “Daughters,” from Netflix, is a unique storytelling experience. Directed by Natalie Rae and Angela Patton, the film provides an intimate look into the lives of Aubrey, Santana, Raziah, and a’Ana over eight years. The documentary captures their journey as they prepare for a heartwarming Daddy-Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers.
Second Listen Sunday: Johnny Gill, Still Winning
Like the rest of New Edition, R&B balladeer Johnny Gill had seen ups and downs as a solo artist. While Mr. Gill had enough hits to tour off, his fans clamored for music. In 2011 after fifteen years, he returned to music with his sixth solo album, “Still Winning,” this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday.
Slow Jam Saturday: One Chance, That’s My Word
R&B luminary Usher is commencing his “Past Present Future” tour this week. Notably, two decades ago, he experienced resounding success with “Confessions” and the subsequent “Truth Tour.” For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday segment, I intend to revisit 2005 and spotlight a selection from the “In the Mix” soundtrack, which Usher had a starring role.
“Running on Empty” is a solid dramedy
After years of working behind the scenes and directing shorts, writer and director Daniel André makes his debut with the dramedy “Running On Empty” from Lionsgate
Concert Review: Missy Elliot, Out of This World Experience at CFG Bank Arena
Charm City was energized on Thursday, August 1st, when Missy Elliott brought her “OUT OF THIS WORLD—THE EXPERIENCE” tour to CFG Bank Arena. I had the opportunity to attend a preview of the tour last year during Essence Fest, and I was eagerly anticipating seeing the show again. Timbaland, Busta Rhymes, and Ciara were the support arts.
Second Listen Sunday : Today, Today
The renowned Motown label encountered a period of stagnation in the late 1980s. At this pivotal juncture, the imminent departure of founder Berry Gordy Jr. prompted the appointment of Jheryl Busby as his successor. Mr. Busby, a distinguished figure in his own right, aimed to propel the label into the contemporary era by devising a marketing strategy to resonate with loyal fans of the label’s heyday and a new audience.