Brats is an engaging tribute to eighties icons homage
Andrew McCarthy, a former ‘Brat Pack’ actor who spent a decade honing his directorial talents in episodic television, now brings his unique perspective to features in the appropriately titled ‘Brats’ from Hulu. The term ‘Brat Pack’ was a standard reference among young movie enthusiasts in the 1980s, first coined by writer David Blum after witnessing a group of young actors being overwhelmed by admirers at the Hard Rock Cafe in Los Angeles. The core members of the Brat Pack were often recognized for their appearances in the ensemble casts of two specific films released in 1985: John Hughes’s ‘The Breakfast Club’ and Joel Schumacher’s ‘St. Elmo’s Fire ‘.
Presumed Innocent is an engaging miniseries
Celebrated Academy Award Nominee Jake Gyllenhaal, following his successful tribute to an 80s classic earlier this spring, is poised to showcase his acting prowess in the miniseries “Presumed Innocent.” Renowned attorney turned Hollywood polymath David E. Kelley assumes the role of showrunner and series writer, with Greg Yaitanes and Anne Sewitsky taking turns directing the series’ eight episodes.
The Young Wife is an engaging sophomore feature from Tayarisha Poe
Tayarisha Poe, the esteemed writer and director known for her widely acclaimed debut “Selah and the Spades,” presents “The Young Wife,” a unique Afrocentric love story that stands out in the genre for its nuanced portrayal of societal pressures and personal struggles. Produced by Republic Pictures, the film’s narrative delves into the emotional turmoil of Celestina (Kiersey Clemons) as she grapples with the tumultuous expectations of family and friends on the day of her nuptials to River (Leon Bridges). The film intricately explores the challenges these societal pressures pose, contributing to Celestina’s escalating anxiety and apprehension as she embarks on marital bliss, inviting the audience to empathize with her journey deeply.
Tales of The Empire is another series of enjoyable Star Wars shorts
On the occasion of Star Wars Day, Disney+ presents its latest offering, “Star Wars: Tales of the Empire.” This series, helmed by the talented Dave Fioni, brings a fresh perspective and unique storytelling style to the Star Wars universe. The voice cast, featuring Diana Lee Inosanto, Meredith Salenger, Rya Kihlstedt, and more, adds depth to the characters. Get ready to immerse yourself in this new Star Wars adventure!
BBD takes fans Behind the Music
Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe, famously known as Bell Biv DeVoe, are taking a break from their tour to join the latest episode of Behind the Music from the comfort of your home. The iconic music trio will share their inspiring story in the second episode of the newest season of the beloved music series. The show captures all the highlights, including the group’s early struggles with record labels, Bobby Brown’s exit from New Edition, and Johnny Gill’s joining to BBD’s solo success.
The Idea Of You is an enjoyable May/December romance
Academy Award-winning actress Anne Hathaway teams up with up-and-coming actor Nicholas Galitzine in the romantic dramedy The Idea of You, available on Prime Video. Directed by Michael Showalter, the screenplay was co-written by Showalter and Jennifer Westfeldt and is based on the novel of the same name by Robinne Lee.
Sugar is enjoyable throwback style mystery
Academy Award Nominee Colin Farrell returns his talents to the small screen in “Sugar” from Apple TV. Iconic screenwriter Mark Protosevich served as showrunner and wrote four episodes. Fernando Meirelles directs all episodes of the series. John Sugar (Farrell), an American private investigator, is investigating the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel (Sydney Chandler).
Diarra from Detroit mixes comedy and mystery
Diarra Kilpatrick, an Emmy Award-winning actress, has partnered with the esteemed executive producer Kenya Barris to showcase her talents in the comedic mystery series “Diarra from Detroit,” exclusively available on the BET+ streaming platform. The narrative follows Diarra (portrayed by Kilpatrick), who is currently undergoing divorce proceedings with Francois, also known as Swa (played by Morris Chestnut). She relocates to her old community after receiving counsel from her confidant, Aja (played by Dominque Perry), and colleague, Mr. Tea (played by Bryan Terrel Clark).
Manhunt is an engaging true crime miniseries
Apple TV has brought to life James L. Swanson’s critically acclaimed non-fiction book “Manhunt” in the form of an enthralling TV series with the same name. The show’s plot revolves around the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the subsequent hunt for John Wilkes Booth, the culprit behind the heinous crime. The program is directed by Carl Franklin and overseen by Monica Beletsky, who serves as the showrunner, ensuring a well-crafted narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
Light on the debauchery “Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told” is still an engrossing documentary
After months of memes and anticipation, the Mass Appeal and Swirl Films documentary “Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told” finally arrives on Hulu. P Frank Williams directs the documentary, while Hip Hop Luminaries Luther “Uncle Luke Campbell,” Jermaine Dupri, and 21 Savage serve as executive producers.
Mean Girls is a fetch remake
Paramount Pictures has given a new twist to the classic high school comedy in the form of “Mean Girls,” which coincides with the movie’s twentieth anniversary. This story was previously adapted into a same-titled stage musical. The latest version of the story has the original writer, Tina Fey, returning to write the script while Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. direct the movie.
Knowledge is power in the engaging documentary Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story
Director JJ Anderson is making a name for herself as a documentary filmmaker with her second feature, “Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story.” The film takes place at one of America’s oldest Black boarding schools and highlights the experiences of several students and staff members. Anderson offers viewers a unique look into the school and its students, showcasing the complex layers of their lives. “Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story” captures young Black students’ emotional, physical, and mental challenges while pursuing an education in America. The film honors the students’ perspectives, providing a vivid and beautiful portrayal of their journeys.