Famed filmmaker Ridley Scott, whose roster of gems includes Alien and Thelma and Louise, is under fire again for his latest offering – The Martian starring Matt Damon. According to the Media Action Network for Asian Americans, Scott didn’t hold true to the identities of the characters in the book authored by Andy Weir and instead picked Caucasian actors to embody the roles.
The New York African Film Festival held it’s annual gala last Friday, and it was no surprise that the film chosen for celebratory purposes was the ambitious and highly anticipated, Half of a Yellow Sun, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton and Anika Noni Rose.
It’s that time again! The New York African Film Festival is back and this time the celebratory themes are seeped in the relevance of the accessibility of stories that for too long remained buried under the weight of myths and nonchalance.
There is an interesting write up in The Hollywood Reporter that recognizes the success black films have been experiencing lately, and the observations are weighed heavily on their impressive box office numbers. The Best Man Holiday, is the latest film to reemphasize this trend, thanks to a solid opening this past week, and the numbers are only getting higher.
2013 is definitely ending on a high note when it comes to the caliber of films that were doled out this year and filed under the Black Cinema genre.
Mother of George
Actress Adepero Oduye is a relevant player in an industry that demands the best and challenges your self-preservation.
In 2011 Oduye flexed her acting chops and won rave reviews for her affecting portrayal of an African-American teenager who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance as she embraces her lesbian identity.
Now that we’ve bid Adieu to 2012, its time to focus on the New Year and all the goodies that will be on display courtesy of our favorite directors and accompanying performers.
There is never an end to the overflowing adulation of a beloved celebrity especially when they meet an untimely end. The obsession and curiosity lingers long after their passing and fosters a breeding ground for fables and tales that take on a life of their own.