Black Savant Cinema's Fave Films of 2012

With the 2012 just hours away from being in the wind, Hollywood cinema has definitely made its mark. It should be easy to think about one movie that stays on your mind, whether good or bad. And in good fashion here are a few of Black Savant Cinema's most remembered films of 2012.

The Avengers

What's not to like when you put together a massive superhero team?!! This was the perfect movie to start my summer, as a matter of fact I had to see it twice in the theater!! I guess that's the superhero nerd in me.

The Dark Knight Rises

And just like The Avengers was a great way to start my summer movie experience, well The Dark Knight Rises was the perfect film to close out my summer movie experience. It was dark, moving, action-filled, emotional, stunning, and jaw-dropping just to name a few things. Nolan's last piece to the Dark Knight puzzle was brilliant. 

Middle of Nowhere

Amazing!! Spellbinding!! Touches your soul!! DuVernay's independent film gives Hollywood cinema hope that there are still good movies that exist. It's a story of love lost, trust, self-determination, and dreams!! This film gives you the total package acting, perfect storyline, passion, and a heart-breaking drama.

Django Unchained

Since this is still in the theaters I will keep my thoughts minimal. I will simply say this film is simply... BAAAADASSSS!! See for yourself.

Flight

Probably Denzel's best performance to date. The man has skills and he continues to prove this fact with each film that he stars in. 

Marley

Here is a documentary that paints a beautiful picture of musical icon, Bob Marley. A refreshing and fantastic biopic. As a viewer we get to see the good, bad, and ugly all in one masterpiece!

Central Park Five

An indie documentary that puts the New York legal system on blast. 

"This film is a powerful, clear-eyed look at the facts that ultimately reveal the way that these boys--and they were young boys-- were screwed." ~Ken Burns

Beast of the Southern Wild

By far one of the best films that I saw in 2012. This indie film tells the story of a little girl's survival to just be herself in another man's world. You will not get through this movie without shedding a tear or two. This fantasy-filled adventure story is a 'diamond in the rough' that Hollywood desperately needed!

Silver Linings Playbook

Life can really be interesting, especially for former mental institution patient Pat. This film takes us on a journey with Pat as we see him try to piece his life back together, despite the challenges that are presented in front of him. 

Cloud Atlas

A film that will make you think, step outside your reality, and reflect how the consequences and actions of one person can impact and change the past, present, and future.

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2

Another book saga has come to an end...so whose team will we be on no, since there is no more Team Edward or Team Jacob...New life, new birth, new powers, new problems to face.

Life of Pi

Ang Lee has done it one again with this fantasy, adventure film. Roger Ebert said it best, Life of Pi is "a miraculous achievement of storytelling and a landmark of visual mastery."

Skyfall

For all that know me, 007 might as well be my code name! Daniel Craig and the Bond series rise to the occasion again. Action, mystery, death, new beginnings, laughter all take place in this one film. If you missed out on this one definitely get it at the Redbox or watch on Netflix.

Argo

"Tense, exciting, and often darkly comic, Argo recreates a historical event with vivid attention to detail and finely wrought characters."

Zero Dark Thirty

Oscar-winning director-producer team of Kathyrn Bigelow and Mark Boal have done it again with this American action-thriller. The film is simply a story of American soldiers efforts to capture or kill one of the world's most wanted men Osama bin Laden. 

These are just a few of my faves! What are some of yours?

Django Unchained: A Story Worth Revisiting!!

Prior to watching this film I was very much on the fence as to whether or not I was going to see it. However, once I saw it there was no question, this was a movie to see. Despite all the controversy and the overwhelmingly one-sided critics Quentin Tarantino's tenth directed film Django Unchained is right on the money. It might be one of his best yet. This is a film that has many roles to captivate, cultivate, amaze, shock, and everything in between.

Django Unchained is movie that is your typical American spaghetti western film, entertaining, funny, and even educational. It was obvious that Tarantino and his team clearly did their research with this film, as the viewer is presented with the subject of slavery right smack in your face (check out the actual/authentic masks that the slave had to wear). Not only do we see a clearly painted picture of the institution of slavery, but the film addressed specifically slave trading, code-switching, prostitution, and mandingo fighting. Even though the film is filled with violence and gore (at moments enough to make you cringe) one has to realize the context of the film...and let's not forget the fact that it is Tarantino's style...IJS.

This is not simply a story about a former slave who is trying to rescue his long lost wife and seek revenge towards her slave master, this is a game of winner take all, literally. Sometimes you have to go for the gold, "by any means necessary". And just in Tarantino style the writing is over the top brutal, genius and hilarious. A movie clearly written on his own terms. His style of dialogue and perfect scenery is a true trademark of a fine filmmaker. Grant it I will admit there are moment where the film comes off botchy and stagnant, but not enough to ruin the film. Interestingly the film has a running time of 165 minutes, however it actually moves quite swiftly.
 

Thankfully with this film Tarantino and the casting director offer a great balance of actors. Each character in this film contributed a great deal to the success of this film. Obviously each actor really had to step outside of who they are as an individual in order to play their respective roles. The acting is actually quite stellar. They truly make you believe them from the talk, walk, and dress!! He pulled out the big guns with this one. I even got chills watching them it was just so real. (Also the fact that the main part of the movie took place not to far from where my family is from, Greenville, MS.)

Playing the lead role of Django Freeman, Oscar winner Jamie Foxx delivers on all levels playing this former slave. Clearly playing a character like Django for Foxx is not easy, it is actually very evident and fitting. It actually makes the role seem more real. His discomfort adds to the authenticity. With this character Foxx walks a very thin line between sadistic and empathetic. It takes a special character to play this role and I think Foxx embodies it well (maybe it was a good thing Will Smith turned it down, not sure I would be convinced seeing him play Django). And then here come the high rollers. Now you gotta love a character who is a former German dentist turned bounty hunter, Dr. King Schulz (Christoph Waltz). This is definitely a standout role for him, nailing every nuance of his complex, obsessive character. Opposite of character personality is Calvin Candie (aka Monsieur Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio) who is ruthless plantation owner and slave master. In this role DiCaprio is delightfully vicious and strangely comfortable in his role...kinda of scary. Both Schulz and Candie are quite impressive and add the perfect touch to what the film needed.

Now what would a film be without an uppity negro slave, and Samuel L. Jackson fills the role perfectly. Jackson's role in this film is brilliant, think of him as an extreme Uncle Ruckus character. Here he plays the quintessential "Uncle Tom".  Jackson truly nailed this role. I have never had such a love hate relationship for a character like Stephen since Denzel Washington in Training Day. It is as though in a weird and twisted way, he appeared to be enjoying playing the role, almost borderline parody-like. And then there is the dame. Although her role is the driving force of the main character Django, Broomhilda (played by Kerry Washington) what we get to see of her acting wise is rather limited. She is actually rather riveting maybe even dreamlike. Through Washington's character we get to see the dynamics of the house and field slave and those who are there simply for pleasure sake. You feel her pain, her passion, and her love and devotion for Django.

As you will see there are several big names, but many of the characters in this film are not veterans. And that is ok sometimes the veterans do not need to outnumber the rookies. In this case with many of the actors having limited roles it makes the viewer really appreciate and pay attention to each interaction. Little words can be just as significant as several words. And for all my folks who have seen the original Django (1966) film, you will be pleased to see a cameo appearance from the main man himself, Franco Nero.

Overall with a great script and a close to perfect cast, the only thing left to be mesmerized and entertained with is the cinematography and the musical score. The scenery is absolutely amazing and scarily beautiful. I can only imagine what it felt like to walk on the plantations in the steps of former slaves and slave masters. The spirit of the ancestors I'm sure loomed over on a daily basis. The score and soundtrack is just as stunning. As a whole is quite classic using such songs as Sergio Leone's "Once Upon a Time in the West" and "La Corsa", and Ennio Morricone's "Sister Sara's Theme". And the icing on the cake, it's nothing like watching a fighting scene and hearing Tupac and Rick Ross...oh how fitting!! When you hear you will know exactly what I am talking about, trust me.

Hopefully people will not just believe the hype and truly make their own opinion about this film. To be honest, it is a perfect discussion starter regarding such issues as the use of the 'n-word' (if you really think about it the use of the 'n-word' in the film is actually more historically correct than in previous Tarantino films), double consciousness (wearing the mask, the veil), drapetomania, and the unique science of phrenology (measurement of the skull). And speaking as someone who is an African American woman there was no point in the film where I felt disrespected or made to look like a fool. I imagine the goal of this film is not to bring or keep Blacks down, but rather to re-introduce a myth/story of a classic narrative to make us aware of what DID happen over some 300+ years ago. Anytime when a film deals with such a controversial and touchy topic as slavery there is always this feeling that it is a conspiracy from "the man".

Slavery is a reality!! You can run from it, but there is no hiding the truth. Tarantino said it best in the 2007 The Daily Telegraph, "I wanted to do movies that deal with America's horrible past with slavery and stuff but do them like spaghetti westerns, not like big issues movies. I want to do them like they're genre films, but they deal with everything that America has never dealt with because it's ashamed of it, and other countries don't really deal with because they don't feel they have the right to."
   
Sometimes it really is just simply a movie. One thing that I will say is that Tarantino is one exceptional genius! Django Unchained is a point blank awesome and brilliant film! A definite must see folks! [Oh by the way the 'D' is silent :-) ]

Rating: 9.5 out of 10 stars

Happy Holidays from Black Savant Cinema!!

Season's Greetings, Merry Christmas, 

Happy Kwanzaa, 

Feliz Navidad, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays!!

From Black Savant Cinema!! Enjoy and Be Safe!!

Who ya gonna call?!..."Get Jack Reacher!!"

Well what a way to start off the holiday movie season. Nothing like a good Tom Cruise action flick. Going into this flick I really did not have any expectations, just hoping for a solid flick. And it was just that a good, solid flick! It always amazes me how good a film can be when the military is involved, it just seems to make the plot and storyline even more engaging.

So we have Jack Reacher, "A homicide investigator digs deeper into a case involving a trained  military sniper who shot five random victims." Now that's a whole lot in one statement...

This action thriller is nothing that we have not seen from any other films, it is just that "it brings that ol' thing back'. Nothing like seeing something familiar, but just amped up to the next level. Now let me say this is not "Mission Impossible", nor James Bond but it will keep you entertained and glued to the screen. However, it is an excellent mix between an ideal action and thriller film in its own unique way.

So let's get to the thick of it, Tom Cruise who plays main character Jack Reacher is based on a series of novels from author Lee Child. Reacher is an ex-Military Police detective who pretty much lives as a gypsy and or vagabond and has been summoned to come into town to help investigate five sniper shootings.

Living as a drifter, and after spending a lifetime on military bases all over the world he now lives a life with no responsibilities, no job, no house, no family, no possessions. Now the only problem here is that the character that Tom Cruise is portraying (Jack Reacher) is actually 6'5'' and 250 lbs...hmmm well you can do the math. Despite that slight flaw he did do the character justice.

Then we have supporting actors Rosamund Pike (Helen) who plays the female lead and attorney in charge of the investigation. I will say this if you are expecting some type of fling think again, let's just say the romance is kept to an all-time low. To be honest her presence in the film is nothing more than to fill the role of 'bait' and to some 'eye candy'. Her character allows Reacher (Cruise) to bounce off ideas and provide the missing links to the puzzle. And with features from rising actor David Oyelowo and veterans Robert Duvall, Robert Jenkins, and known director Werner Herzog (who makes an appearance) there is a lot of flavor added to the stew. As you watch this film, you will be mesmerized with each scene wondering who is talking to who, or who is coming around the corner. Nothing is expected at all. There is just so much to say about this film, but NO SPOILERS!!

Now as far as the plot goes, the story grabs you from the beginning...trust me!! I will say though, there were moments when it seemed a bit slow and dragged along, but in the end it did seem to come together. At times a a bit cheesy, but overall a decent plot, and believable acting. Each action scene whether a car chase, a fight scene, or a shoot out is vivid enough to not hit the border of being to cliche'. With a cohesive plot and a good mix of characters this could lead to a promising franchise.

What I really liked about this film was that you were always guessing about what would be the next move. Just when you think you knew who the bad guy was, you quickly changed your mind. Even with the CGI the film does not rely on the special effects, in a way it kind of has an old school feel to it. And let me just say Tom Cruise seems to never age, but I guess that's a good thing. (Let the money roll in for ya.) I just may have to read the books....hmmm if time allows lol.

Jack Reacher is the type of solid movie that will make you laugh, keep you on your toes, and make you think twice about the characters next move. Cruise definitely does not disappoint with this one. So go ahead and check it out!

Happy Holidays!!

Rating: 8.5 out of 10 stars

One more for you to catch on Netflix...

Just in case you missed it in the theaters Spike Lee's summer joint 'Red Hook Summer' is now streaming on Netflix. Check it out if you can. An intriguing, controversial film.

Next on the docket for Tyler Perry... "Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor"

Temptation: Confession of a Marriage Counselor is a comedy-drama that tells the story of a bold exploration of the intrigue and perils of infidelity.

Tyler Perry's Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor is a compelling love story that dives straight into the heart of obsessive passion. “It's about a woman who starts to get restless in her relationship and her choice to be with another man has a huge effect on the rest of her life," explains screenwriter/producer/director Tyler Perry. "She goes on a journey – in her career and in her marriage – and she ends up in a very different place than she expected." In a departure from his previous dramas, this explosive film finds Perry exploring the nature of desire – and just how powerful and dangerous a taste of the forbidden can be. 

"This is definitely one of the most provocative movies – sexually and otherwise – that I've made," says the director. "There are a lot of people who struggle in their relationships. They make bad choices about their marriages. They get divorced. And so many of them don't step out of their situation and really think about the consequences of what they're doing. This movie asks, 'Are you sure you want to do this?’ It sends up a flag." 

This star-studded cast includes Lance Gross, Brandy Norwood, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Vanessa Williams, Jerry Stiller, Kim Kardashian, and others.

The film is set to hit theaters March 29th, 2013.

Some Flicks to watch on Netflix!!

So just in case you are having the winter blues or you just cannot quite make it to the movie theater here are some flicks on Netflix that you may want to consider...

First up is Brooklyn Boheme...this film is "a love letter to a vibrant African American artistic community who resided in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill Brooklyn during the 80's and 90's that included the great Spike Lee, Chris Rock, Branford Marsalis, Rosie Perez, Saul Williams, Lorna Simpson, Talib Kweli just to name a few."

The documentary celebrates "'Brooklyn's equivalent of the Harlem Renaissance' and follows the rise of a new kind of African American artist, the Brooklyn Boheme."

Brooklyn Boheme - Official Trailer from Diane Paragas on Vimeo.

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Next is a film that for my folks interested in a comprehensive history of cinema, The Story of Film: An Odyssey (I warn you it is rather lengthy, but definitely worth...you may not want to watch it all in one sitting).

"The Story of Film presents the history of the movies in a way never told before. Director and film critic Mark Cousins uses weaving personalities, technology, and production with engaging descriptions of ground breaking scenes to tell the story."

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And finally...A Man's Story: The Ozwald Boateng Story chronicles the life London-born (Ghanaian decent) Saville Row designer Ozwald Boateng. Boateng is a designer who has dressed for such male celebs as Spike Lee, Don Cheadle, Russell Crowe, Chris Rock, Daniel Day Lewis, Will Smill, Jamie Foxx, Forest Whitaker, Wesley Snipes, among others.

A Man's Story is a film with a message of faith and hard work combined can help one to achieve their dreams.

A Man's Story Trailer from Trinity film on Vimeo.

And these are just a few of the streaming films on deck!! So if you don't have Netflix now you may want to purchase or borrow the membership!! It's worth every penny!!

Sci-Fi Film Explosion

It appears that Sci-fi flicks are becoming very popular these days in the film industry. British star Idris Elba is set play a role in the new fast-paced sci-fi thriller, Pacific Rim. The film is directed by Guillermo del Toro and set in San Francisco.

Pacific Rim a film set in a world where soldiers piloting giant robots battle against giant monsters who have mysteriously risen from beneath the ocean. The film will be an homage to Japanese giant monster films, known as Kaiju worldwide. according to del Toro the film will be "a beautiful poem to giant monsters."

Adding movies such as this one to his resume are reasons why Idris Elba remains an actor that is constantly on the watch list.

Think of this film as Transformers meets Cloverfield...Pacific Rim is set to hit theaters July 12th, 2013. Another potential box-office hit for the summer!!

"The Best Man" sequel is set for November 2013 Release

Well looks like the gang is getting back together...Please believe I am doing my 'Happy Dance' right now!! Thanks to a Universal Pictures email announcement the studio is set to release an untitled sequel to the 1999 film The Best Man for Friday, November 15th, 2013.

No synopsis has been given except for the fact that Malcolm D. Lee will be serving as the director and one of the producers of the film along with Sean Daniels (The Mummy series) co-producing.

Also there have been no concrete casting roles set, but rumor has it that the sequel will reprise the original cast which includes Sanaa Lathan, Monica Calhoun, Melissa De Sousa, Harold Perrineau, Taye Diggs, Nia Long, Terrance Howard, and Morris Chestnut.

It will be interesting to see what the storyline and plot will unfold. There is a lot of potential in this cast and for this film.

So I am very much looking forward to what is in the works. If nothing else at least I know that a date has been set. Sounds good to me!!

Two Things I Learned From Watching 'Scandal'

Let me just say that I have been bitten by the Shonda Rhimes ‘bug’ as she has captured my soul with her latest ABC television drama Scandal. It is a brilliant story that I think every person can relate to in some sort of fashion. But last night’s episode was the nail in the coffin (in a good way) for me. Now for those that do not watch the show whether male or female YOU ARE MISSING OUT!! And I will not disclose any details, but trust me it sucks you in and takes no prisoners.

I will give you just a brief synopsis so that you can at least have a mental picture of the show. Pictures this…

Olivia Pope (played by Kerry Washington) dedicates her life to protecting the nation’s “high-profile” elite public figures, and she does this by making sure their secrets never get out. Pope is a former White House Communications Director for the president (basically she was running things), but left to start her own crisis management firm, Olivia Pope and Associates. Leaving the White House and starting her own firm, she hopes to begin a new chapter of her life, however there are certain parts that she cannot leave behind.. in the past. Olivia Pope is a person with great intellect, numerous resources, power, charm and a definite sensitive, soft side.

Alrighty back to last night…I would come to realize that there are two things that I have learned from watching this show, Huck is Dexter 2.0 and Women truly run the world!!

If there is one person that you want on your side through thick and thin that would be Olivia’s tech guy Huck. Huck is that guy that when you see him, you step back and let him do his thing. (“My bad you got this…”) He is the type of guy that does not get in the way, however he does not necessarily need to be caged, just controlled from arms length. Not only is he tech-savy, a former CIA agent and Black Ops, but most importantly he is loyal and trustworthy. He does just what you need without even asking him to do it. You need someone to “disappear” quickly…Huck is your man. When you need to hack into a high-security system…Huck is that guy!! This man is a twisted genius who takes pride and pleasure in torturing people, even though he tries not to. If you have ever watched the show Dexter on Showtime then you already know the mental state of Huck. Just know he is a man that you do not ever want to cross, not even on accident. Even though it would seem that his behavior is predictable with each episode I am consistently shocked, amazed, blown away, and at times fearing for my own life. I would not doubt that there are multiple pictures of him in the DSM-V, I’m sure he is a classic textbook case. When it all boils down, when sh@$# hit the fan, Huck will ALWAYS be on my team, mental craziness and all!!

Now this next lesson that I would learn sits near and dear to me. James Brown once sang that “this is a man’s World, BUT it wouldn't be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl.” Well Mr. Brown you were right on the money!! Now we already know that Olivia Pope is running things in and out of the White House. But she is not alone…and once again last night’s episode made that crystal clear. I mean it was all in your face!! The killer and twist of it all are the other female players in this game!! Who would have thought that a Supreme Court Justice, the president’s wife, and the president’s mistress (who also happens to be the token black player as well) would all be on the same team!! Hmmmmmm…makes you wonder what’s really good?!! Now I could never quite seem to put my finger on the relationship between Olivia and Mellie, I but I get it now. Poor President Fitz can’t keep anything under control, whether its personal or political. I am beginning to wonder if this is all an act or id this for real, for real. See that’s why it is critical to watch each episode week after week, God forbid I miss one…let’s just say the train will be derailed. At first I was 100% Team Olivia, but now I see that Mellie got some skills and knows how to strategically stay under the radar. Now that I think about it I would not mind having her on my team…well at least for special situations that is…If you only thought women were just “ornamental objects” well last night changed up that whole scenario!! As much as I hate to use this Beyonce line …”Who runs the world…Girls do!!”

Well folks that’s the lesson for the day! Crazy is as crazy does, and women are a force to be reckoned with at all times!! These are the type of folks that you can never underestimate…let’s just say they are full of surprises…GOOD and BAD!!

Trailer Alert: "Iron Man 3"

No words necessary except....WOW!!

2013 is going to be a GOOD year!!

Film and Fitness... Perfect Combination!

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Finding You in the "Middle of Nowhere"...

DuVernay has done it again!! Opening Night at the Landmark Midtown in Atlanta, GA for the premiere of Ava DuVernay's second feature film, Middle of Nowhere been waiting for this moment since last year this time. But the wait was worth it!!

These days it is very hard to find a film that not only entertains but provides a humanistic experience. Middle of Nowhere does just that, and in a captivating way. It is not often that you find gems within Hollywood (and maybe that is a good thing), but when you do there is a greater appreciation of that film when you are able to view it with your own eyes. With this film, Sundance award-winning director Ava DuVernay is able to create a story that deals with love, trust, the complex prison industry, family, and finding one's self in this thing called life.

Middle of Nowhere tells a story of Ruby (played by Emaytzay Corinealdi), a bright medical student who sets aside her dreams and suspends her career when her husband Derek (Omari Hardwick) is incarcerated. As the committed couple stares into the hollow end of an eight-year prison sentence, Ruby must learn to live another life, one marked with shame and separation. And as a steadfast wife she soon becomes propelled into another world filled with self-discovery and choosing between two worlds and two men. 

In addition to the story, DuVernay should take pride in the actors that she used with this film. Without them there would be no movie. And the lead character Ruby (Corinealdi) is truly the center of it all, and plays this role so beautiful and eloquent. Corinealdi is brilliant in this role as she is able to capture her audience with a breath-taking convincing performance. Even though her specific circumstance may not be the same as yours or mine the character is still relatable in the fact that everyone has to make their own choices for themselves. No doubt about it she brought an Oscar-worthy performance, and look forward to seeing more of her. Her presence is one that will move mountains and shake grounds.

The supporting cast is just as remarkable. Omari Hardwick who plays Derek, Ruby's incarcerated husband, once again challenges his viewers to see him play very complex and intricate characters. Although we as the viewer know very little about him, we know enough that we feel his pain and his hurt as he struggles to be a provider and most importantly a MAN all behind prison bars. If you have ever seen the movie Nothing But a Man, you will have an even better understanding of Hardwick's character in the film. He conveys a performance that makes you feel sorry and angry for him all at the same time. And then there is Brian (David Oyelowo) who is like the wildcard. Oyelowo gives a low-key performance of guy who seizes an opportunity to pick up what another guy has left behind. In this role from Oyelowo, we get to see a more take charge, advancing character doesn't give up regardless of the circumstances. The interactions between Brian and Ruby light sparks and send chills because in the back of your mind you want to cheer for them even though it is technically wrong. These two men in Ruby's life are more than just another love story, but the provide the background and foundation for what she is really supposed to do with her life.

There is also a feminine connection as we get to see Ruby interact with both her mother, Ruth (Lorraine Toussiant) and her sister Rosie (Edwina Findley). The dynamics between these three women is filled with a mix of emotions sadness, survival, sisterhood, and grief. Both mother and sister maintain their sense of pride and dignity that ultimately put a strain on their relationship as well as with Ruby. All in all, each character brings their own personal formula to this chemical reaction of a story. Each relationship is authentic and full of clarity.

The film is to be commended for its ability to give you the whole package deal. Although there were moments where you wanted just a little but more, it kind of adds a bit of mystery to the viewing experience. Sometimes it is more important to focus on one character well than to branch off and do and average job.

Director/writer DuVernay brings a compelling and alluring screenplay to the light, with each scene you can feel each moment as it unfolds. The dramatic pauses, the close-ups, the scenery, the dialogue it all draws you in yearning to see what will play out in the next minute. Middle of Nowhere, is a prime example of a film that blends both an intriguing narrative and an awesome soundtrack. Every song in every scene worked perfectly. It is as though the script and the songs were written at the same time. Middle of Nowhere's soundtrack included such artist as Goapele, Meshell Ndegeocello, Ra-Re Valverde, Fink, J Melodius, and others.

Middle of Nowhere is a film the effectively uses all of it parts the acting, the narrative/storyline, the cinematography, the music, the color, and most importantly the timing. Everything and every person falls into its proper place without seeming forced or out of place. And after watching the film you realize that the title is actually quite fitting. Lest I not forget the way this movie ends... it is genius!! I will not reveal it to you, but just know"it's just something about that walk!!" Overall this is a film will challenge your mind and makes you look deep within yourself. Not only that but it gives you a sense of reality of the prison system (you win some, you lose some). There is an overarching lesson here...life is truly what you make it, whether you are free or seeking to be free...

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Sidenote: I kid you not this is a film that you do not want to miss. For those who live in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, Miami, Detroit, Chicago, Houston, Seattle, Oakland, Washington, D.C., New Jersey, or the surrounding areas this is a MUST SEE!!

My PSA for 'Middle of Nowhere'

This post is my personal PSA for the upcoming African American Film Festival Releasing Movement (AFFRM) film Middle of Nowhere, starring Emayatzy Corinealdi, Omari Hardwick, David Oyelowo, and Lorraine Touissant.

About a week ago I had the awesome pleasure to meet the AMAZING woman behind this film and Middle of Nowhere leading actress. And let me just say both Ava DuVernay & Emayatzy Corinealdi are truly an inspiration beyond words!!

I have literally seen every movie and own one on DVD from what I like to call the AFFRM vault. Each film truly tells a story in such beautiful way that you can't help but feel the actors and what they bring to the screen. Middle of Nowhere is no exception!!

Winner of the Best Director Award at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, MIDDLE OF NOWHERE follows Ruby, a bright medical student who sets aside her dreams and suspends her career when her husband is incarcerated. As the committed couple stares into the hollow end of an eight-year prison sentence, Ruby must learn to live another life, one marked by shame and separation. But through a chance encounter and a stunning betrayal that shakes her to her core, this steadfast wife is soon propelled in new and often shocking directions of self-discovery - caught between two worlds and two men in the search for herself.

The film truly speaks for itself with its engaging and compelling narrative! I would not steer you wrong folks!! So please please take a friend, or two, or three and check this film out!!

Special shout out for all my ATL folks, as it will be playing at the Landmark Midtown. And if you need more information about the film and/or AFFRM check the trailer below and the website AFFRM (African American Film Festival Releasing Movement) .

Middle of Nowhere hits theaters October 12th!!

Calling All My Chicago Folks!!!

Chicago’s homicide rate is soaring, but unfortunately this is not surprising news. Some point to a lack of summer jobs for youth or a need for stronger work programs for the formerly incarcerated. Others blame weak gun control legislation and the criminalizing of marijuana. It has also been argued that we are living in a “culture of violence” that seems to be promoted by certain music and gaming industries. Still too, the finger has been pointed at the poor trust that African American and Latino communities have for law enforcement. Whichever is the primary reason, together these issues continue to be a breeding ground for contempt and crime.
Let’s get back to focusing on the solutions. 

This is a special post for my Chicago peeps and those in the area. Come out and enjoy the screening of two powerful anti-violence documentaries followed by a panel discussion featuring Chicago teens and young adults who offer creative and dynamic strategies to confront the violence in our city.

**19 And A Day
The Life and Times of J-Def, directed by Masequa Myers and produced by Pemon Rami, is the story of a family’s love and tragic loss of their only child. It centers on Jeff Abbey Maldonado, Jr., an aspiring hip hop artist, known as J-DEF, who was de

termined to use his talent and creativity to make a positive change in his Pilsen community and in society. Jeff’s life was taken unceremoniously by a senseless act of gang violence; a culture of which young Jeff vehemently opposed. This docufilm also portrays how the Pilsen Community helped to strengthen Jeff’s family in their darkest hour. It teaches us how we are all responsible for our future by investing in our youth

**On the Frontline: Taking Back Our Streets
Having a long-standing reputation for gangs and guns, Chicago continues to be one of the nation's leaders in murders. Gun violence is becoming the leading cause of death among young people. They are gunned down on the streets of Chicago on a daily basis. Some have survived the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, only to lose their lives in Chicago. On the Frontline: Taking Back Our Streets is a powerful and insightful documentary that takes a close look at the impact that gun violence has on some of Chicago’s most devastated communities. This film, by Derek and David Grace, highlights ordinary people who are taking extraordinary measures to protect their neighborhoods. 

Sunday, October 7th, 2012

2-4 PM

DuSable Museum of African American History

740 East 56th Place

Chicago, Illinois 60637

http://www.dusablemuseum.org/events/details/peace-talks-your-hood-your-call

FREE ADMISSION