TOMMY DAVIDSON brings families together in ABC’s Vacation Creation Season 2

My Goggle calendar gave me an alert that my presence was expected at the Viceroy Hotel. I was scheduled to interview iconic comedic actor Tommy Davidson—from “In Living Color” fame—about season two of his new show, ABC’s Vacation Creation which premieres on September 30th.  Vacation Creation is not your typical travel show. People facing crisis or hardships; couples, individuals and families are treated to a vacation of a lifetime aboard an exotic bound cruise ship.

The Viceroy hotel is very easy to miss even though it’s near central park and just a stone's throw away from Carnegie Hall.  Once you cross the heavy glass doors that separate the busting city from the dimply lit and surprisingly comforting interior, you realize that you are standing square inside understated elegance.  The guests clamoring around the check-in desk are “dressed down” with big diamond rings anchoring their fingers and expensive limited edition designer handbags swinging off their shoulders.  I don’t exactly blend and it seemed that all eyes turned in my direction when I asked the fashionable man behind the concierge desk where the press event for ABC’s Vacation Creation was being held? He blinked, smiled and checked his computer and said: “I have no idea what you are talking about.”

Ring: Beyonce’s “Diva”  “I'm a, a diva, hey, I'm a, I'm a, a diva, hey..” —my ringtone—drowned the hotels’ house music. Turning I was face-to-face with Mrs. Tommy Davidson. On her feet she wore a pair of classic Jimmy Choo heels that made her long legs seemed like they had no end. She was clad in ripped blue jeans and was wearing a diamond on her ring finger—squared shaped and magnificent—that was so big and cut so splendidly that I dubbed it “light catcher.”

Tommy Davidson hugged me, greeting me like we were old pals about to jump into a catch-up session but in truth we never met. In person he’s not changed much from when he appeared on the Wayans’ In Living Color (1990 to 1994). 

“Before you ask, I do not get sea sick. I love boats. I love traveling and I love giving deserving families an opportunity to relax and deal with important issues or honor those that they love….on a cruise ship.

What I really love about our show [Vacation Creation] is that it’s not like you gotta watch somebody learn to dance, or watch some dude make cakes, or somebody trying to sell something to sharks, or the I wanna see a bitch get slapped [on] TV.  This is great life-changing TV and I get to watch people smile, a lot.”

In one hour with Davidson I came away with enough to write a small book including a children story about how Eagles are best friends and care about their communities. I also learned that he was member of the Choctaw Nation, a Black Indian like myself. I am part of the Miccosukee Tribe who were originally part of the Seminole nation but gained Federally recognized independence in 1962. According to Wikipedia the Choctaw, who originally occupied what is now the Southeastern United States, share a language that belongs to the Muskogean language family group. That group includes Creek-Seminole (also called Muskogee, Maskoke, Seminole).

So when Tommy Davidson greeted me like a long lost friend, he saw something inside of me; he saw that we were family.

AMAZON's Comrade Detective | Rhys Thomas and Brian Gatewood bring 80s nostalgia with comedy & action!

After Netflix, now it's Amazon's turn to bring you some 80s nostalgia with Comrade Detective, a satirical 1980s-set Romanian cop series premiered on Amazon Prime August 4th. Channing Tatum leads an all-star voice cast that includes Mahershala Ali, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jenny Slate, Nick Offerman, Fred Armisen, and Kim Basinger. The series is a co-production of Amazon Studios and A24. Rhys Thomas, Brian Gatewood and Alessandro Tanaka, are the creators, writers and executive producers of the show. Brian and Alessandro have been writing and producing partners for eleven years and with Comrade Detective they’ve created a refreshing, clever mashup played straight.

The high-concept comedy is slyly tongue-in-cheek and they had only one director in mind to be in on the joke - Emmy-winner Rhys Thomas. Rhys’ acclaimed work on Saturday Night Live and Emmy-nominated series Documentary Now! made him the only choice to walk the line between Cold War period propaganda and ‘80s pop culture craziness.

Brian and Alessandro’s previous producing and writing credits include the NBC television series Animal Practice and the Showtime television series DiceDice is returning for season two on August 24th. They also wrote the FOX feature The Sitter.

Rhys' additional directing and producing credits include John Mulaney's Emmy-nominated stand-up special The Comeback Kid, NBC's Emmy-nominated concert special Adele: Live In New York City and his debut feature Staten Island Summer.

We talked to Rhys and Brian, the interview is below:

True to its inspiration, the series is presented in Romanian and dubbed in English. Most of its world-class cast and crew are based in Romania and the show was produced on location in Bucharest. Romanian actors Florin Piersic Jr. and Corneliu Ulici play the lead roles and Channing Tatum and Joseph-Gordon Levitt provide the dubbed voiceovers.  While it’s very much a Romanian show, Comrade Detective is also a comment on American culture – encompassing the look, themes and tropes of the ’70s and ’80s.  And like many other entertainment offerings its message has become very timely. 

In the 1980s, millions of Romanians tuned in to Comrade Detective, a gritty and sleek buddy cop show that not only entertained its citizens but also promoted Communist ideals and inspired a deep nationalism. It has now been digitally remastered and dubbed into English for the first time by a cast featuring Channing Tatum, and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

Synopsis:

In the thick of 1980s Cold War hysteria, the Romanian government created the country’s most popular and longest-running series, Comrade Detective, a sleek and gritty police show that not only entertained its citizens but also promoted Communist ideals and inspired a deep nationalism. The action-packed and blood-soaked first season finds Detectives Gregor Anghel and Iosef Baciu investigating the murder of fellow officer Nikita Ionesco and, in the process, unraveling a subversive plot to destroy their country that is fueled by—what else—the greatest enemy: capitalism.

Though the beloved show was sadly forgotten about after the fall of the Berlin Wall, it has been rediscovered and digitally remastered now with its main heroes voiced by Channing Tatum and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. A true portal into a time and place, Comrade Detective offers a powerful reminder of what art can be—and it is now ready to be seen by the modern world on a larger scale than ever before.

Game Of Thrones: Dragonstone - S 7: Ep 1 review (3/4) | Dany is at Dragonstone, Cersei is going mad, Jon is King of North... & Winter is here!

The long awaited Season 7 of HBO's GAME OF THRONES is here, and it did not disappoint. Although, it wasn't specially exciting either, which is quite normal for season premieres of GOT. It's usually a set up for the upcoming season, and this episode did that beautifully. You almost get to see all the major characters, and all their stories seem to converging soon. And it had some beautiful, strong and also disgusting moments spread through out the episode.

***SPOILERS***

So here's what happened and what was good:

  • Arya Stark killed all the Freys, and she's heading to Kings Landing to kill the queen. she has become more and more exciting, snd it's good to see her finally in action.
  • Whitewalkers are coming. And this time, they have Giant white walkers too. Yep!!!
  • Bran Stark & Meera Reed make it in, through the wall. The scene with brothers of the Night's Watch was interesting. And its always exciting to see the "giant wall".
  • Jon Snow/Stark/Targaryen v/s Sansa Stark/Baratheon/Bolton. Sansa "loves" Jon but is not really with him in his methods. Jon is still Jon, kind and considerate. Sansa wants to be Cersei. An exciting scene of their confrontation, Jon holding his ground and showing he's the King of North.
  • Littlefinger is still creepy, but Sansa seems to be handling it. Sansa tells him "he doesn't have to seize the last word. I'm sure it's something clever." Quite fitting!
  • Cersei sends a threat to Jon about giving in, or facing destruction. Seriously?
  • Cersei has gone mad. I think. After blowing ups the crypt, and killing 11 regular stars of the show, she thinks she' super powerful. Her brother & lover, Jamie on the other hand still has some sense. He tells her that she's not the queen of seven lands, three at best, with no support. She's still going crazy. She thinks she has a way.
  • Euron Greyjoy is the way. He wants her as his queen, offering his support in return. She doesn't trust him, so he promises to return with a "priceless gift". Any ideas what it'll be? A dragon? Or Tyrion? We'll find out.
  • The Hound, who met up with Beric Dondarrion and Thoros of Myr and the rest of the Brotherhood in Season 6, travels with them now. He lands at the farmer's house from Season 4, where he stole their gold despite Arya's protests. Now the farmer and daughter are dead, and he's filled with guilt, which he doesn't/can't show.
  • The scene where he sees whitewalkers in fire, very intense. Overall good scene for Rory McCann.
  • Now comes one of the most disgusting scene of GOT, with our favorite Samwell Tarly. Apparently, the part of training for being a maester in Citadel, is to clean up shit, literal shit. A long funny & disgusting montage of Sam cleaning shit.
  • He can't get Grand Maester to help him with training for killing whitewalkers, so he steals the book and finds out what? That there's a mountain of dragon glass under, you guessed it Dragonstone.
  • We see Jorah Mormont is still sick, waiting for the Dragon Queen, and a cure.
  • DRAGONSTONE! Dany arrives at Dragonstone, a long montage of walking to and inside. And finally arriving in the "infamous" map room, asking his hand Tyrion, "Shall we begin?". Pretty Cool!

Not so good

  • Why is Arya going to Kings Landing? Go to your family. Seriously!
  • The scene with Ed Sheeran. I mean UGH. Is she going to kill them all? She should!
  • Bran Stark is so boring. Do something cool. Be useful.
  • Long scene with Cersei and Jamie. Too much talk and exposition, not much action.
  • The long disgusting montage of poop & puke and shit cleaning by Sam was necessary? I guess so...
  • Dany didn't take the throne. I mean... There was a cool throne to sit on.
  • We didn't hear Tyrion's banter. He was there. We want him more!

Anyways, there are only 12 episodes left in the show, 6 in Season 7, and 6 in Season 8. Savor it as much as you can. Enjoy it. GOT is going to end. Yes, it's going to happen. But until then, we have a lot to look forward to. And it's going to be awesome!

It may be the first day of summer, but #WinterisHere on 7.16. Game of Thrones Season 7 premieres this July. Learn more at http://www.gameofthrones.com

Allen Hughes, creator of "The Defiant Ones", on HBO July 9-12

Allen Hughes has made a lasting imprint in the documentary world with HBO’s“The Defiant Ones.”

As the director, writer and executive producer of the four-part documentary that —HBO is keen on stressing is “event viewing” and will air in successive order, July 10, 11 and 12th—the journey started almost five years ago when he pitched the idea to the President of HBO and 90 seconds later it was approved. 

“It was one of the fastest green-lights that I ever received,” stated Hughes. “Then it took years to complete.”

Set amid many of the defining events of the past four decades, "The Defiant Ones" tells the stories of two men – one black, one white – Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine — both from  different tough neighborhoods and explores their improbable partnership and surprising leading roles in a series of transformative events in contemporary culture.

Storyteller Hughes, digs deep and keeps the pacing of the journey slick. Taking us into the recording studios, homes, criminal courts and in the highest corridors of corporate power.

All this because they happily provided Hughes with unfettered access (over a three-year period) in making the documentary and everyone that participated spoke frankly about the good and the bad of their lives, includingSnoop Dogg, Bruce Springsteen, Gwen Stefani, Bono, David Geffen, Eminem, Nas, Stevie Nicks, Kendrick Lamar, Ice Cube, Jon Landau, Patti Smith, Lady Gaga, Doug Morris, Tom Petty, Trent Reznor, Diddy, Alonzo Williams and will.i.am

Under Hughes’ direction the explosive series also features never-before-seen footage from a multitude of recording and writing sessions with Eazy-E, JJ Fad, Stevie Nicks, N.W.A., Tom Petty, The D.O.C., Bruce Springsteen and U2, among others.

Here is a brief excerpt for an hour long interview with Allen Hughes about making of "The Defiant Ones.”

Lapacazo Sandoval: How long did it take to make “The Defiant Ones?

Allen Hughes: Wow.  I thought it would take one year. It did not. It took three years.  That was surprising to me.  It consumed me.  There is no working script.  You don’t know what’s going to happen.

LS: Episode one.  The prologue where the Apple deal almost fell apart, what an exciting opening!

AH: Thank you. I was already shooting the documentary when the Facebook leak [in 1994] with Dr. Dre and Tyrese celebrating the billion dollar deal was all over the net. I thought that I did not have a film anymore. But then I realized that it was the best way to open the movie because it showed that this film was not bull shit.  These guys were going to revel and be vulnerable and open up. I wanted to send the signal — right away — this is not going to be your run-of-the mill doc. 

Celebrate Apple Buying ...www.complex.com/pop-culture/2014/05/dr-dre-tyrese-apple
May 9, 2014 - Late last night the Financial Times broke the news that Apple is in talks with Beats Electronics to purchase the company for $3.2 billion.

LS: When this is all said and done, after it’s had it’s run on HBO—do you think you will use “The Defiant Ones” as a teaching tool?  The filmmaking is extraordinary and the life lessons that are shared, I feel, are important for others to see.

AH: Yes. Anytime someone wants to show a film and have a Q&A [I would] I love that. I love talking to students—even if they are older than me—any student that wants to learn about film, they teach me as I am engaging with them.  So absolutely, that would be great. 

LS: Duly noted. What I took away from Jimmy’s [Iovine] story, in episode one, is to follow your passion because if you do not, you should not be surprised when you keep getting fired. Thoughts?

AH: (laughing) Oh, that is so true, right? My advice. Find out what your calling is, early, and you won’t be getting fired like that! You are right. It’s a great lesson, learned [from Jimmy], wow.  

When two unexpected music moguls come together, history is made. The Defiant Ones, a four part documentary series about Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre, premieres July 9 at 9PM on HBO. Follow The Defiant Ones: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/defiantones/ www.defiantones.com www.twitter.com/hbo www.facebook.com/hbo

"The Defiant Ones" 
HBO Event Documentary
Part 1 July 9th, parts 2, 3 and 4 debuting on successive nights, JULY 10, 11 and 12,

‘WORLD OF DANCE’ POPS, LOCKS AND TAPS ITS WAY TO A SECOND SEASON RENEWAL

America is in Lockstep with NBC’s New Tuesday Hit Series as Judges Jennifer Lopez, NE-YO, Derek Hough and Host Jenna Dewan Tatum Mentor Artists Vying for $1 Million Prize 

Official Show Website: http://www.nbc.com/world-of-dance?nbc=1

Facebook l Instagram l Twitter@nbcworldofdance

“World of Dance,” which was the #1 regular timeslot premiere of 2017 on the broadcast networks in the 18-49 demo as well as the most-watched summer alternative series debut on cable or broadcast in nine years, has been renewed for a second season.

“World of Dance” gives dancers the platform to showcase their talents and compete for a life-altering grand prize of $1 million, led by a judging team of extraordinary dance superstars — Jennifer Lopez (who also serves as an executive producer), Derek Hough, NE-YO and host/mentor Jenna Dewan Tatum.

In partnership with preeminent global dance brand World of Dance, the series brings the world’s elite dancers together to compete in epic battles of artistry, precision and athleticism. Solo dancers will compete against duos and crews in an unlimited range of dance, including hip-hop, popping, locking, tap, ballet, break dancing, ballroom, stomping and more.

Handpicked from qualifying events around the nation and thousands of online submissions, competitors are divided into three divisions: Junior (any size act, 17 years old and under), Upper (groups of 1-4, 18 and older) and Team (groups of 5+, 18 and older). A panel of experts scores the acts using a precise point system developed by World of Dance, using the following criteria: Performance, Technique, Choreography, Creativity and Presentation. The competition consists of five rounds: Qualifiers, Duels, The Cut, Divisional Final and the World Final. In the first four rounds, dancers only compete within their division, but in the World Final — the winner from each division will compete against each other for the $1 million grand prize.

For those interested in participating in season two, please go to https://worldofdancecasting.com/index.

Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas & Benny Medina executive produce for Nuyorican Productions. Also executive producing are Kris Curry, Matilda Zoltowski, Alex Katz, David Gonzalez, Matthew Everitt and Al Hassas. The series is produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio in association with Nuyorican Productions and World of Dance.

BETTER CALL SAUL - Season 3, (mostly) SPOILER FREE review

I have been Better Call Saul fan since season-1. This spinoff of Breaking Bad, is coming to a point where it can turn out to be a show better than the parent. At least in some ways. The last night season finale makes a string case for that. And if you haven't caught the bug yet, please jump online to find it on Netflix or any other streaming or on-demand service you use. You have a lot to catch up on!

Better Call Saul is an American television crime drama series created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. It is a spin-off prequel of Gilligan's prior series Breaking Bad. Set in 2002, Better Call Saul follows the story of small-time lawyer James Morgan "Jimmy" McGill (Bob Odenkirk), six years before his appearance on Breaking Bad as Saul Goodman; events after the original series are briefly explored as well.

This Emmy-nominated prequel to "Breaking Bad" follows small-time attorney Jimmy McGill as he transforms into morally challenged lawyer Saul Goodman. SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/29kBByr About Netflix: Netflix is the world's leading Internet television network with over 100 million members in over 190 countries enjoying more than 125 million hours of TV shows and movies per day, including original series, documentaries and feature films. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on nearly any Internet-connected screen.

So what's good...

  • Initially a show that was supposed to be mostly comedy, has become emotional drama, crime thriller, and still a very funny comedy. It has everything, and everything is wonderful.
  • The sub-plot of 2 brothers Jimmy and Chuck took a larger role this season. And boy, was Michael McKean amazing! He brings so much depth to a seemingly despicable lunatic character, and makes him just a treat to watch. We do hope to see more of him in next season...
  • Season 3 introduces some familiar characters from Breaking Bad. It's a pleasure to see Francesca and Huell back. Specially Francesca's origin story is wonderful, and Tina Parker is just marvelous in her portrayal.
  • Gus Fring is back too. And as usual, Giancarlo Esposito is the same calm, composed mastermind criminal who we all love. Hopefully we see some new shades of his charger in next season.
  • The entire cast is wonderful. Casting makes a show great, and this show has a great cast. Special mention to Rhea SeehornMichael Mando, and Patrick Fabian. Kudos to all other actors. Absolutely!
  • Thanks to wonderful storytelling by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, the show is a joy to watch. The long action scenes (not fight), with almost no dialogue are amazing to watch. And it's a joy how the story unfolds.
  • Last but not the least, Bob Odenkirk (Who became Saul Goodman). He's just AWESOME!

Not-so-good

  • Jonathan Banks as Mike Ehrmantraut was kinda boring. Jon is so talented and it seems the character was made more uni-dimensional this season.
  • It's getting less funny, and more dramatic & serious. 
  • The LONG action-shots of things just happening, or people doing things, can be annoying. Mostly fun (and meaningful), but sometimes it's too much.

It's a show you must be watching. So get on it NOW!

The cast and creators discuss the state of Jimmy's morals, Mike's deepening partnership with Gus, and what's next for everyone as their paths cross more in the future.

AMERICAN GODS - Season 1 (mostly) SPOILER FREE review!

There's a reason why a show was being called "one of the best shows on TV", even before it was airing. The show called AMERICAN GODS. And in all honesty, it hasn't disappointed at all. The show is truly amazing in more than one ways. And yesterday's finale sealed it's fate as a show that is not going to be forgotten, but people are already waiting for the second season. If you haven't watched it yet, it's time you jump on to Amazon (Each episode becomes available internationally on Amazon Video the day after the U.S. broadcast.) or on-demand, and watch it right now!

If you do not know about the show, American Gods is based on the novel of the same name, written by Neil Gaiman and originally published in 2001. The television series was developed by Bryan Fuller and Michael Green for Starz. Fuller and Green are the showrunners for the series. The series focuses on Shadow Moon, who meets a strange man named Mr. Wednesday after being released from prison, and soon becomes embroiled in a large-scale conflict between the Old Gods and the New Gods, who grow stronger each day.

Get your free trial of the STARZ app: http://starz.tv/29ZEg2m Subscribe now for more: http://bit.ly/1kalhP0 Connect with American Gods online: http://starz.com/series/americangods Follow American Gods on Twitter: http://twitter.com/americangodsstz Follow American Gods on Facebook: http://facebook.com/americangodsstarz Follow American Gods on Tumblr: http://americangods.tumblr.com When Shadow Moon is released from prison, he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday and a storm begins to brew.

So, what's good about the show?

  • The story of gods, in modern world. The old gods, or "the gods" as we know them, who exist and feed on our their believers and followers. The new gods, the marvels new-age like technology, media, globalization etc.m who exist because they rule & run today's world. The concept is fascinating, the story is amazing, and the presentation by Fuller and Green is just awesome!
  • The visuals are stunning. When it comes to visual story telling, Bryan Fuller and Michael Greene are the men to go to. Bryan's wonderful Hannibal, was a canvas filled with amazing imagery. American Gods being a fantasy, takes it a step further. It's surreal, it's astonishing, it's beautiful and it's crazy (at times).
  • The cast is just perfect. Ricky Whittle's first LEAD role is just seems to be made for him. Everyone is just cast perfect for the part. But few standouts are Ian McShane as Mr. Wednesday (A role already played by Anthony Hopkins, and we still love Ian even more), Pablo Schreiber as Mad Sweeney, (does he make a crazy leprechaun or what), Emily Browning as Laura Moon (The lil girl is grown up, and she's cute & crazy & disgusting & weird & more, all at the same time), Yetide Badaki as Bilquis (what can I say, she's just perfect. The eyes, the look, the body language, everything) and definitely Gillian Anderson as Media (what can I not say, she's just WOW!).
  • When hit comes to diversity & inclusion for women and African American, it is very good. Black lead - check. Strong female characters - check. More interesting & important black characters, both male & female - check.
  • Is it super relevant or what? A fantasy show about gods but you can take about race, immigration, sexuality, globalization, inner demons etc etc etc. is there any topic that this show doesn't touch, and comes out handling it beautifully?
  • And some shockers along the way too... The most explicit gay sex scene on screen. Not just Mexican Jesus, but over a dozen different Christs. Lynching of a black man. Running over cute bunnies (I mean, seriously!). 

What's not so good about the show (hmmm...)

  • Inclusion for other ethincities... There are 2 middle eastern characters, but that's it. Right? No major Asian characters. And no Indian gods yet. Krishna? Siva? Durga? Buddha? (I'm perfect for all of them, specially Krishna or Siva). I mean... Seriously?
  • Why Dane Cook? Although he was good in the role. But why him? Who wants to see more of him? (ME!!)
  • Some episodes seem to move really slow (Good news, season-2 episodes will move faster)
  • Why only 8 episodes? I mean, why? Didn't we need/want like 20 episodes? (Good News, the Season-2 has 10 episodes)

So, if you are not on the band wagon yet, please jump on immediately and start watching AMERICAN GODS. It is AWESOME!

Shadow drops by to visit Jesus. Get your free trial of the STARZ app: http://starz.tv/29ZEg2m Subscribe now for more: http://bit.ly/1kalhP0 Connect with American Gods online: http://starz.com/series/americangods Follow American Gods on Twitter: http://twitter.com/americangodsstz Follow American Gods on Facebook: http://facebook.com/americangodsstarz Follow American Gods on Tumblr: http://americangods.tumblr.com When Shadow Moon is released from prison, he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday and a storm begins to brew.

David Chase, Steve Buscemi & Terence Winter, watch & discuss "PINE BARRENS" from THE SOPRANOS

David Chase’s gangster series shattered the industry’s preconceptions and showed what TV drama could be. Part crime thriller, part domestic drama, and part social satire, The Sopranos was also innovative in its structure. It split the difference between serialized, long-form storytelling, in which an entire season was united by ongoing plot strands, and more traditional TV narrative, where characters and conflicts were introduced at the start of an episode and resolved neatly at the end.

These qualities and more are exemplified by Season Three’s “Pine Barrens,” in which Paulie Walnuts and Christopher Moltisanti ineptly try to kill a Russian gangster in a snowy stretch of New Jersey forest, with an ending that is classic Sopranos, offering a conclusion at once inevitable and surprising—and also prankishly frustrating, denying both characters and viewers the closure they crave. In that respect, it feels like a harbinger of the show’s notorious 2007 cut-to-black ending, which Sopranos fans argue about to this day.

Yesterday at Split Screens Festival at IFC Center in NYC, the episode’s screenwriter (and executive producer on the show) Terence Winter and director Steve Buscemi presented David Chase with Split Screens’ first-ever Vanguard Award, then took us behind the scenes of one of the greatest of all Sopranos episodes. Here are some excerpts

How did the idea for the episode originated?

How did the idea for "PINE BARRENS" Originated? | SOPRANOS panel with David Chase, Steve Buscemi and Terence Winter, at Split Screens Festival 2017 NYC

The episode has so much more than just "The Russian"

"Pine Barrens" has so much more than the Russian - Scrabble, Steak, Ari Graynor! | SOPRANOS panel with David Chase, Steve Buscemi and Terence Winter, at Split Screens Festival 2017 NYC

Why is "What happens to the Russian", not an important question.

"Pine Barrens" (SPORANOS) - Why is it not important to know, "What happens to the Russian" - David Chase & Terence Winter | SOPRANOS panel Split Screens Festival

How to make a great TV show - David Chase.

David Chase (SOPRANOS) - How to make a great TV show | Split Screens Festival 2017 NYC

Julie Klausner of DIFFICULT PEOPLE - When it comes to DIVERSITY, just walk the walk!

Julie Klausner is the creator, writer, producer, and star of HULU's one of the first original comedy shows, DIFFICULT PEOPLE. Her series about brilliant, acerbic, self-defeating best buds on the fringes of stardom is tailor-made for the YouTube era, when artists and entertainers act as their own agents, publicists and managers and watch their colleagues’ successes and failures unfold in real time, with envy or glee, depending.

She set a path for original comedy shows on digital platforms. The show is in its third seasons and it keeps getting funnier and better. And most of the credit goes to the wonderful and talented Julie Klausner. Julie was at the Split Screens Festival 2017, being held at IFC Center in NYC. Here are some of her wonderful insights:

Julie Kalusner (DIFFICULT PEOPLE) on "self indulgence" as writer/actor, and DIVERSITY

Julie Klausner (DIFFICULT PEOPLE) - How did it all came along, and the writing process for the show | Split Screens Festival 2017

DIFFICULT PEOPLE is it improvised or scripted?

Julie Klausner - DIFFICULT PEOPLE, talks about if show is mostly improvised or scripted? at Split Screens Festival 2017

What works in comedy on TV?

Julie Klausner - DIFFICULT PEOPLE - What works in comedy on TV | Split Screens Festival 2017

Julie Klausner talks about the writing process for DIFFICULT PEOPLE

Julie Klausner (DIFFICULT PEOPLE) - How did it all came along, and the writing process for the show | Split Screens Festival 2017

Characters & character-rules on DIFFICULT PEOPLE

Julie Klausner - Characters & character-rules on DIFFICULT PEOPLE | Split Screens Festival 2017

About DIFFICULT PEOPLE

Julie (Klausner) and Billy (Billy Eichner) keep hatching schemes like a couple of Lucy Ricardos, even though their quest is motivated less by a burning urge to express themselves than a lust for fame and comfort. They pop others’ delusions and preserve their own, but even at their pettiest, there are moments when they speak the truth, and some of their most penetrating insights have to do with the show you’re watching and the medium that spawned it. One of Difficult People’s fiercest convictions is that a sitcom’s first obligation is to be funny and engaging, a surprisingly contrarian point of view now that every form of scripted entertainment is striving to subvert rather than embrace proven formulas. “When did comedies become 30-minute dramas?” Billy asks, with an aghast tone that suggests Difficult People is not interested in becoming one.

SPLIT SCREEN FESTIVAL at IFC
(Friday, June 2 - Thursday, June 8, 2017)

Split Screens is festival is a new, annual event celebrating the art of television.

Curated by one of television’s biggest fans, author and critic Matt Zoller Seitz, the festival’s inaugural edition takes place June 2-8, with exclusive screenings and vibrant panel conversations featuring the biggest and boldest names in scripted content.

Stars, producers, directors and showrunners appear in person for in-depth discussions with audiences. Festival guests include Hank Azaria, Sarah Violet Bliss, Lilly Burns, Asia Kate Dillon, John Fawcett, Nelson George, Stephen Adly Guirgis, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Anthony Hemingway, Aisha Hinds, Lodge Kerrigan, Julie Klausner, Brian Koppelman, Rami Malek, Tatiana Maslany, Michelle MacLaren, Graeme Manson, Michael McKean, Amanda Peet, George Pelecanos, Charles Rogers, Amy Seimetz and others.

For the festival lineup, tickets and additional information, visit
splitscreensfestival.com
http://www.ifccenter.com/series/split-screens-festival/

Reality TV get's more soul, with WE tv's HUSTLE & SOUL

Last week’s snowstorm in NYC may have temporarily derailed the premiere screening and party for WE tv’s new culinary docu-series “Hustle & Soul,” but Lawrence Page, owner and head chef of Brooklyn-based soul food restaurant The Pink Tea Cup, has overcome much bigger obstacles in his lifetime. While chatting with Extra correspondent A.J. Calloway during last night’s rescheduled premiere event at The Cutting Room, Page revealed that he was homeless for nearly three years while trying to revive the former West Village landmark.

The self-taught chef was joined by cast, friends and family to celebrate the new series. While guests enjoyed a DJ set from Questlove, they were invited to sample signature items from The Pink Tea Cup’s menu including chef Lawrence’s famed chicken & waffles and macaroni & cheese, as well as the restaurant’s highly popular cocktail, Savannah Iced Tea.

“Hustle & Soul” airs on Thursdays at 10/9c on WE tv.

Chef Lawrence from HUSTLE & SOUL, on WEtv, from the premiere party at CUTTING ROOM, in NYC.

Jay Z, Weinstein & Nick Sandow bring "TIME: The Kalief Browder Story", @SPIKE TV tonight!

After a successful launch out of Sundance Film Festival ’17, Spike TV & The Weinstein Company bring the new docu-series TIME: THE KALIEF BROWDER STORY, which is premiering on Spike TV tonight. The series, Executive Produced by Shawn “Jay Z” Carter and Harvey Weinstein, tells the powerful & heartbreaking story of Kalief Browder, a 16-year-boy who was arrested for allegedly stealing a backpack, never convicted of anything in relation, yet spent at least 800 DAYS IN SOLITARY CONFINEMENT, AND MORE THAN 1,000 DAYS IN THE NOTORIOUS RIKER’S ISLAND PRISON. With nearly 1,000 hours’ worth of footage and over 300 interviews (including the Browder family, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Van Jones, Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder), the docu-series dives deep into the sad truth of racial inequality within the U.S. criminal justice system.

The criminal justice system impacts more black and latino male teens than any other demographic in the state of New York. Subscribe for more: spke.co/1pmVCvW TIME: The Kalief Browder Story begins March 1st at 10/9c on Spike.

The series does a great job of portraying the true story, from a very inclusive point of view. The film gives you perspective of the other side, including the correction officers, law enforcement , politicians and others. Although, the story is driven by Kalief's horrible journey and experiences, it manages to capture the overall essence of where we stand right now. How being born in certain conditions, can already heavily set you up for failure. How the society and government partake in that process and the worst it may lead to, in this case that being Kalief. It's a very moving story, told in a very impactful way, thanks to the filmmaker Jenner Furst & producers/collaboraters, Nick Sandow, Julia Willouhby Nason, Jay Z, Harvey Weinstein and others.

"TIME: The Kalief Browder Story" is a documentary series about a 16 year-old student from the Bronx who spent three years on Rikers Island without ever being convicted of a crime. Subscribe for more: spke.co/1pmVCvW Follow Spike Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spike Twitter: @Spike (https://twitter.com/Spike) Instagram: @SpikeTV (https://instagram.com/SpikeTV)

SYNOPSIS: At 16, Kalief Browder was charged with stealing a backpack, then arrested in the Bronx. He proclaimed his innocence, fought the system, and in the face of torture and unthinkable circumstances, he prevailed. For this, Kalief became an American hero—but he paid with his life. In a groundbreaking six part docuseries TIME: The KaliefBrowder Story is an in-depth look at this harrowing story. Using illuminating interviews with world-renown experts, celebrities, politicians, local officials, and survivors creates eye-opening nonfiction and humanizes the mechanical levers of justice while forcing Americans to reexamine the broken system. Utilizing multiple filmmaking techniques to create a unique and disruptive style, the series takes the viewer deeper and deeper into the perfect storm of the institutional failure that conspired to destroy Kalief Browder.

Set to air on Spike TV on March 1, 2017. For more information, go tohttp://www.spike.com/shows/time-the-kalief-browder-story

#KaliefBrowder @Spike

Jimmy Smits: I love diversity and strong women characters on 24 LEGACY

Art: Hi, Jimmy. Thanks for taking the time to talk to us.

Jimmy: How are you, Art? How are you doing?

Art: Good. How are you?

Jimmy: Good, man. Good.

Art: Congratulations on the wonderful show.

Jimmy: Thank you.

Art: I was blown away by the pilot as well. It’s amazing of course. The cast is amazing as well and it’s good to see the diversity and inclusion that we’re seeing in several shows, including this one with a black lead, and with you and with women, and all this great cast. How do you feel about it?

Jimmy: I think it’s a really important thing. And, yes, with regards to our show it’s another reason why I was really positive about jumping on to this with regards to Corey’s casting and their choice of where they want to go story-wise. I love the fact that, and I’ve talked about this in interviews, that the women characters are very proactive and really move the story forward, and when they’re in positions of power they’re really exercising that power. Yes, so it’s something that I embrace totally.

Art: You have been a champion, especially for Latinos, in entertainment and outside, bringing the voices up. And we see that in TV and films things are changing for African-American, black actors and filmmakers. Not as much as we’d want, but they are changing. But you still see the representation of brown people, or especially Latinos and Asians and others are not where it should be. So how do you see that progression going, and what do you think the industry and the artists themselves can do to improve that situation?

Jimmy: Thanks for your question, Art. With regards to what you were saying about what’s happening generally, with regards to Latinos I think it’s a process. And of course you see the numbers in the major metropolitan areas increasing, and I think there’s a lot to learn with what the African-American community is enjoying right now in terms of a real resurgence in terms of story and quality types of writing and characters. And what we can see is that it’s not just about being in front of the cameras, to be in those positions where you’re doing writing, and producing, and directing, having people that are involved in it on those levels fortifies the possibility of those stories happening. So, if we can learn anything by that, that’s the place we have to get to, specifically with regards to your question about Latinos story-wise. I hope I was able to answer your question, Art.

Here's an inside look at Senator John Donovan in the all-new FOX series, 24: LEGACY. Subscribe now for more 24: Legacy clips: http://fox.tv/Subscribe24FOX Watch more videos from 24: Legacy: http://fox.tv/24LegacySeason1Playlist See more of 24: Legacy on our official site: http://fox.tv/24FOX Like 24: Legacy on Facebook: http://fox.tv/24_FB Follow 24: Legacy on Twitter: http://fox.tv/24_TW Like FOX on Facebook: ‪http://fox.tv/FOXTV_FB‬‬ Follow FOX on Twitter: ‪http://fox.tv/FOXTV_Twitter‬‬ Add FOX on Google+: ‪http://fox.tv/FOXPlus‬‬ The clock ticks again with 24: LEGACY, the next evolution of the Emmy Award-winning "24."

Art: Yes. Absolutely. And I also think it’s great to see that you’re playing a presidential candidate. And when we see brown and other actors playing not just your typical roles but a wide variety of roles, it inspires other actors as well. So, thank you for doing that.

Just a follow up question on that. This is a wonderful show, but are there any other brown actors or characters that you’re a fan of right now? Any brown actors or shows that are representing brown folks that you are a fan of right now that we should look out for?

Jimmy: Well, I love the work that Dev is doing right now, he’s represented in that Oscar film that’s in contention right now.

Art: Lion.

Jimmy: Yes, Lion. Definitely. For a story like that being told not only because of the truth that’s happening with regards to the film, but for them to open it up even further and have a film about it with that quality just warms my heart.

Art: Thank you so much, Jimmy, for taking the time and all your wonderful wor and support.

Jimmy: God bless you, Art. Thank you very much, Art. Take care.

It's not too late to catch up on the first two episodes of 24: LEGACY. Go to FOX NOW and catch up on every minute!

24: Legacy | Baur is back, and he's black!

And he's called Eric Carter, not Jack Baur!

So, let me say this loud & clear first. "24 Legacy pilot reminds you of 24, when it was great". And 24 was never really bad I believe, I enjoyed it until it's last season and then again in 24: Live Another Day. From the first episode, it was an amazing concept to pretty much see events unfolding in real time, in an hour show. And in 24 episodes of a season, as 24 hours of a day. Pretty damn cool!

Well the new show, is a spin-off of 24. Consisting of 12 episodes, the show follows the life of war hero Eric Carter (Corey Hawkins) using real time method of narration. Miranda Otto plays Rebecca Ingram, the former head of the now revived Counter Terrorist Unit in Washington, D.C. It begins with Carter, an ex–Army Ranger who has returned to America, and the trouble that follows him back, compelling him to ask CTU to save his life, and potentially stopping the largest terrorist attacks on American soil.

The first 2 episades aired this week on Sunday, as the lead-out program for Super Bowl LI before moving to its regular time slot of Monday at 8:00 p.m. It did set it up to a good start. There was lot of good action. It was fast paced with story moving fast, and raising more questions to keep it interesting. The performances by entire cast were damn good. And it seems tone an interesting start of something quite intriguing to watch.

Get an inside look at the CTU headquarters, open the dossier on a new cast of characters, and get a glimpse of the action packed twists and turns that await.

Will they be able to continue the action and high stakes environment for upcoming episodes? That has to be seen. the expectations from the CTU will be high, both interns of tech and reality, with some amazing shows that have come jin the meantime. The whole terrorism action genre is quite filled right now, with some good shows. And the baggage of original 24 remains.

One amazing thing on the show happens to be the diversity & inclusion. The lead happens to be a black man, without a specific factor there. The head of CTU is a woman. The potential presidential candidate is brown (the amazing Jimmy Smits). And there are other characters too. FOX has been doing quite well for inclusion with successful shows like EMPIRE. But creating more lead non-white characters, on a "general" show is a good thing for industry and the cause of inclusion. Thankfully with good casting and good writing, none of it seems forced. Congratulations to FOX and the show creators for being able to do that.

We look forward to more of that and more of 24 Legacy!

It's not too late to catch up on the first two episodes of 24: LEGACY. Go to FOX NOW and catch up on every minute!

JOHN LEGEND, JURNEE & ALDIS CELEBRATE SEASON TWO OF ‘UNDERGROUND’ AT #SUNDANCE

“Underground” Executive Producer John Legend and Stars Jurnee Smollett-Bell and Aldis Hodge Hosted an Exclusive Celebration at Park City’s prestigious Riverhorse on Main, last night. We had a chance to talk to both Jurneee and Aldis. Here it is:

Sundance: Jurnee Somollett-Bell at WGN's Underground Season 2 party at Sundance2017, talks to Art Shrian about season 2, being a women and being an actor.

Sundance: Aldis Hodge at WGN's Underground Season 2 party at Sundance2017, talks to Art Shrian about Season 2, being brown actor in Hollywood and more...

WGN America celebrates its second season of the hotly anticipated escape thriller “Underground,” the most buzzed about television series at last year's festival, with a celebration for the 2017 cast and creative team.  The exclusive event follows the series’ “Clips and Conversation” panel, in partnership with The Blackhouse Foundation, an Institute Associate of the Sundance Film Festival.

Season two of the 10-episode, hour-long series follows an unremitting struggle for freedom within a divided America on the brink of civil war, each side vying to enact their own justice.   Set in the aftermath of the Macon 7’s daring attempt to stage the greatest escape in history, this group of American heroes continues on their harrowing journey to freedom, with legendary abolitionist Harriet Tubman blazing the trail. 

From Sony Pictures Television, “Underground” is created and written by Misha Green ("Sons of Anarchy," "Heroes") and Joe Pokaski ("Heroes," "Daredevil"), who serve as Executive Producers alongside Emmy-winning director Anthony Hemingway (“The People v. O.J. Simpson,” “Treme”); Academy Award-winning writer Akiva Goldsman (A Beautiful Mind, I Am Legend) of Weed Road Pictures; Tory Tunnell (King Arthur, Holy Rollers) and Joby Harold (King Arthur, Edge of Tomorrow) of Safehouse Pictures; John Legend, Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius of Get Lifted Film Co (La La Land, Southside with You); and Mark Taylor (“MadTV”). Season two of the riveting drama recently wrapped production in Savannah, Georgia.

WGN AMERICA’S RIVETING DRAMA SERIES ‘OUTSIDERS’ RETURNS ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 24 AT 9:00 PM ET/PT

MOUNTAINS OF TROUBLE!

WGN AMERICA’S RIVETING DRAMA SERIES ‘OUTSIDERS’ RETURNS ON

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24 AT 9:00 PM ET/PT 

“Outsiders” to Offer Weekly After-Show for Highly Anticipated Second Season and One-Hour Special

“Inside Outsiders: Season 2 Primer”

Created and Executive Produced by Peter Mattei, Executive Produced by Peter Tolan

and Academy Award-Winner Paul Giamatti, Series Stars David Morse, Ryan Hurst, Thomas M. Wright, Gillian Alexy, Kyle Gallner and Christina Jackson

‘’’Outsiders’ Season 2 is looking all kinds of epic.” – Joe Otterson, The Wrap

   L-R: Thomas M. Wright as Sherriff Houghton and Ryan Hurst as Lil’ Foster in WGN America’s “Outsiders.” 

WGN America's "Outsiders" returns for season two on Tuesday, January 24 at 9/8c. To find your local WGN America channel visit the channel finder here: http://www.wgnamerica.com/channel-finder

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 20, 2017) - The battle for power and control in the rugged hills of Appalachia continues when WGN America’s hit original drama series, “Outsiders,” returns for a highly anticipated second season on Tuesday, January 24 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. The addictive and compelling drama explores the epic struggle of the Farrell Clan, who have lived atop the rugged Shay Mountain for over two hundred years, and their fight to defend their land and way of life from the town below. The uneasy truce that had generally existed between the townspeople and the family tribe came to an end when Big Coal interests headed up the mountain and the standoff continues to have repercussions, putting everyone to the test as they’re forced to face new challenges and enemies. The conflict between the clan and the town escalates with the Farrells becoming more isolated than ever before.

In the second season premiere episode, “And The Three Shall Save Save You,” written byPeter Mattei and directed by Jon Amiel, both sides struggle to regroup in the wake of the Kentucky mountaintop clash between the Farrells and the town of Blackburg. The Farrell clan is divided after the showdown and their new leader G’Winveer (Gillian Alexy) is weary to take the leadership role until Big Foster’s (David Morse) body is found. Lil Foster (Ryan Hurst) heads off to track down the body and ends up in the hands of the townspeople. Hasil(Kyle Gallner) goes to check on Sally-Ann (Christina Jackson) and Asa (Joe Anderson)must decide whether or not he wants to be a Farrell. Back in town, Sheriff Houghton(Thomas M. Wright) faces a new adversary, Matt Meyers (James McCauley), who was sent by the Governor to contain the growing Farrell situation. 

 

This season, the world of the Farrells expands with a next-day weekly after-show, featuring series star Ryan Hurst “Lil Foster” as the first guest, and look for other fan favorite Farrells and Losties to appear.  The after-show will be available on the official “Outsiders” Facebook page and YouTube channel, as well as theStream.tv. 

Fans can catch up on the highly anticipated season two premiere of “Outsiders” with a one-hour special, looking back on the first season, with “Inside Outsiders: Season 2 Primer” airing Monday, January 23 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT .  The special will feature cast interviews and highlights from season one along with insight on the show’s characters.  Fans can relive all the action during WGN America’s “Outsiders” season one marathon when all 13 episodes air back-to-back beginning January, 21 at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT. 

“Outsiders” fans are invited to “tweet up” with the cast as they live tweet the premiere episode on Tuesday, January 24 (9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 p.m. PT), @OutsidersWGN, #OutsidersWGN.  Tweet to @OutsidersWGN during the “live tweet” for a chance to win exclusive “Outsiders” promotional items.

Outsiders season Two premieres Tuesday, January 24th 9/8c on WGN America. To find your local WGN America channel visit the channel finder here: http://www.wgnamerica.com/channel-finder

 

The ensemble cast for “Outsiders” includes: David Morse (“Treme,” Concussion) as Big Foster, the gruff and powerful de facto patriarch of the Farrell family who was shot and left for dead; Ryan Hurst (“Sons of Anarchy,” “Bates Motel”), as Lil Foster, a massive mountain man and son of Big Foster; Thomas M. Wright (“The Bridge,” “Top of the Lake”) as Sheriff T. Wade Houghton, a cop who has a rough and mysterious history with the Farrells, and grapples with several personal troubles of his own; Gillian Alexy (“The Americans,” “Damages”) as G'Winveer, the Farrell healer, thrust into leadership,  who must discover her inner strength to save her people; Kyle Gallner (American Sniper, “Veronica Mars”) as Hasil, a free spirit that ventures between Shay Mountain and his forbidden love Sally-Ann; Christina Jackson (“Boardwalk Empire,” “Deception”) as Sally-Ann, a beautiful girl from a mining town who captured Hasil’s heart; Joe Anderson (“The Divide,” Across the Universe) as Asa, a former member of the Farrell clan looking to rejoin the family;  Francie Swift (“Hostages,” “House of Cards”) as Haylie Grimes, a clever and cunning all-American community relations manager representing the encroaching coal company; and Rebecca Harris (“The Good Wife,” “Sex and the City”) as Ledda, Sherriff Houghton’s no-nonsense sister.

Hailing from Sony Pictures Television, “Outsiders,” is created and written by award-winning playwright Peter Mattei, who executive produces alongside Fedora Entertainment's Emmy® Award-winner Peter Tolan ("Rescue Me," Analyze This) and Michael Wimer (2012, "Rake"), and Touchy Feely Films’ Emmy® Award-winner Paul Giamatti ("John Adams," Sideways) and Daniel Carey (All Is Bright).

WGN America and Tribune Studios

WGN America, the flagship entertainment network of Tribune Media Company (NYSE: TRCO) is nationally distributed in nearly 80 million homes via cable, satellite and telco, with high-quality entertainment programming including the breakout hit series “Outsiders” and “Underground.” The network also brings its audience a strong slate of popular first-run syndicated series and blockbuster movies.  Through Tribune Studios, the creative development arm of Tribune Media, original content is produced for WGN America and Tribune local stations nationwide.  Follow the network on Twitter @wgnamerica.  For additional information, please visit www.wgnamerica.com.

About Sony Pictures Television

Sony Pictures Television is one of the television industry’s leading content providers, producing and distributing programming worldwide in every genre and for every platform. In addition to managing one of the industry’s largest libraries of award-winning feature films, television shows and formats, SPT is home to a thriving US production business and operates 17 wholly-owned or joint venture production companies in 13 countries around the world. SPT’s worldwide networks portfolio includes 150 channel feeds, which are available in 178 countries reaching more than 1.3 billion cumulative households worldwide. Sony Pictures Television (SPT) is a Sony Pictures Entertainment Company.

 

“Outsiders” cast on Twitter:

Ryan Hurst @rambodonkeykong

Gillian Alexy @GillianAlexy

Kyle Gallner @KyleGallner

Christina Jackson @TiiMariie

 

Follow:

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OutsidersWGN

Twitter https://twitter.com/OutsidersWGN

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outsiderswgn

"The industry is finally catching up with the reality of the real diversity that exists within our country", Benjamin Bratt from STAR

Benjamin Bratt is a superstar, who's in STAR. STAR is a new TV show created by the amazing Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy. It revolves around three talented young singers (played by Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady) who navigate the music business on their road to success. The series, which is set in Atlanta, will consist of original music, along with musical fantasy sequences, as dreams of the future.

Three talented singers, desperate for a new start and with ambitions of stardom, navigate the cut-throat music business on their road to success.

The show premiered on FOX this Dec 14th, and comes back January 2017. Thirteen episodes have been ordered, which will premiere during the 2016–2017 television season. Queen Latifah, Benjamin Bratt and Nicholas Gonzalez co-star. Emmy Award nominee Benjamin Bratt (“24: Live Another Day,” “Law & Order”) plays JAHIL, a down-on-his-luck talent agent looking to revitalize his career. 

Art Shrian had an opportunity to talk to the wonderfully talented actor Benjamin Bratt recently. Here are the excerpts:

Art: Hello, Benjamin, how are you?

Benjamin: Good, Art. How are you doing?

Art: I’m great. Thank you for taking this time. It’s such a pleasure talking to you. You’re not just a wonderful actor, you’re a wonderful activist. You’ve done so much good for us brown folks and indigenous folks. I really thank you for that, all the wonderful work and support that you’ve always shown.

Benjamin: Thank you.

Art: You are on a wonderful show, surrounded by a very talented bunch, who are people of color. Stars like Queen Latifah, to newcomers as well. And now we are seeing more of that mainstream shows on FOX and other networks, from Empire to several other shows where people of color and their stories are being told in mainstream, with them as the main characters. And it’s not just targeted to particular audience, it’s for everyone. You’ve been in the industry for so long, you’ve seen so much. How do you feel about that? What do you think is causing that? Does more need to happen? What’s your thoughts on that from your experience of working on this show?

Benjamin: It’s an exciting time because I think that the industry is finally catching up with the reality of the real diversity that exists within our country. I have always cited early pioneers of blind casting, folks like Dick Wolf who gave me one of my first jobs, to Shonda Rhimes, and now of course, Lee Daniels who populate the worlds of their programming as they see the world itself and as a reflection for what it really is.
I was born and raised in San Francisco, California, a child of the ’60s, ’70s, and my fond remembrance of that city was that it was cosmopolitan, and it was eclectic, and it was ethnically and culturally mixed. But, when I got into the business, I found none of that.
The good news, to your question is that yes, not just in the independent sphere but also on the major networks, more and more programming is reflecting the reality that in fact, America, the United States of America, is now and always has been strong and incredible and full of potential because of what it is, which is a culturally diverse and remarkable tapestry of different cultural influences from around the world.

Art: Thank you for that. Being in the industry, your experience, what would your message be or suggestion be to young actors and young storytellers to take people of color and ethnicity to take advantage of this time? What would your suggestion be?

Benjamin: I would say that everyone has a story, and the key to telling a story on a national or international level is to find the universality in the connective tissue really that really makes all of us human beings the same. That’s one thing that Lee has really been successful at.
In Star, he reflects a world he knows well, a world that is a reflection of our communities where some of the social ills not only influence the way we grow up but some of the choices we make for our future, and that holds true for the world of Star. We have some characters that come from the world of poverty and child abuse, or from the dilapidated foster care system, or there’s gun violence, gender politics at work, substance abuse, you name it.
While it does seem like that would be at times merely used as a way to dramatize different scenarios, it’s also a reflection of what Lee knows, the world that Lee knows well. On some level he seeks to make it authentic and dramatize it at the same time. That’s what I think people are going to respond to.
This show is not necessarily for everyone. Some of these things are hard to look at and yet, the way he depicts it, the starkness that really exists in real life and then juxtaposes it with the hopefulness and the inspirational aspects of music. I think he’s created something totally unique and really compelling to watch.

Roland Crane and his wife, Rose, come into town, revealing a big secret that threatens to destroy the group.

A STAR IS BORN ON THE SPECIAL PREMIERE OF “STAR”
(WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14 ON FOX)

STAR (newcomer Jude Demorest), a tough-as-nails young woman who came up in the foster care system, tracks down her sister, SIMONE (newcomer Brittany O’Grady), and her Instagram bestie, ALEXANDRA (newcomer Ryan Destiny), and together, the trio journeys to Atlanta with the hope of becoming music superstars. Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award, Grammy Award and Golden Globe Award winner Queen Latifah (“Bessie,” “Bringing Down The House”) stars as CARLOTTA, a surrogate mother to the young crew, that also includes COTTON (newcomer Amiyah Scott). Emmy Award nominee Benjamin Bratt (“24: Live Another Day,” “Law & Order”) plays JAHIL, a down-on-his-luck talent agent looking to revitalize his career in an encore of the “Pilot” special premiere episode of STAR airing Wednesday, Dec. 14 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (LDS-101) (TV-14 D, L, S, V)

Cast: Queen Latifah as Carlotta, Benjamin Bratt as Jahil, Jude Demorest as Star, Brittany O’Grady as Simone, Ryan Destiny as Alexandra and Amiyah Scott as Cotton

BENJAMIN BRATT (Jahil Rivera on STAR)

A San Francisco native and proud alumnus of American Conservatory Theater’s ATP – receiving an honorary M.F.A. in 2008 – Benjamin Bratt has enjoyed a diverse career that has successfully spanned film and television for more than 20 years.

In 2010, Bratt won Cinequest’s Maverick Spirit Award for his work as producer and star of the San Francisco independent hit “La Mission.” Written and directed by his brother, Peter Bratt, the locally produced film earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Independent Motion Picture, a GLAAD Award nomination and multiple Imagen Awards, including Best Actor.

Bratt’s distinguished film career includes the critically acclaimed films “Piñero,” in which he starred as the poet-playwright-actor Miguel Piñero; Steven Soderbergh’s “Traffic,” which received five Academy Award nominations and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Ensemble Cast; and “The Woodsman,” a festival and critical favorite starring Kevin Bacon. A veteran of more than 25 films,Bratt’s other work of note includes Curtis Hansen’s “The River Wild” opposite Meryl Streep; “Blood In, Blood Out,” for director Taylor Hackford; “Clear and Present Danger” opposite Harrison Ford; the beloved comedy “Miss Congeniality,” with Sandra Bullock; and the theatrical adaptation of the acclaimed novel “Love in the Time of Cholera,” co-starring Javier Bardem.

He voiced the character of “Manny” in the film “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” and reprised his role in last year’s sequel, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.” Bratt also voiced “Eduardo” in “Despicable Me 2.” Additionally, he starred in “The Lesser Blessed” which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last fall. Prior to that, Bratt starred in “Snitch,” alongside Dwayne Johnson.

Bratt is perhaps best known for his Emmy Award-nominated role as “Detective Rey Curtis” on “Law & Order.” From 2008-2009, he starred in the drama series “The Cleaner,” for which he also served as producer. His portrayal of “extreme interventionist” “William Banks” garnered him an Alma Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series. He also starred in the medical drama “Private Practice” and appeared in a recurring role on the hit comedy series “Modern Family.” In 2014, he co-starred on FOX’s “24: Live Another Day.”

Most recently, Bratt was seen in the feature comedy “Ride Along 2,” opposite Ice Cube and Kevin Hart; “Special Correspondents,” for director Ricky Gervais; “The Infiltrator,” opposite Bryan Cranston; and “Shot Caller,” another collaboration with director Ric Roman Waugh.

"It's amazing to have black TV back in action", Serayah of EMPIRE loves POWER, INSECURE & BLACKISH

Empire has been one of the biggest hit on FOX, since it hit screens early last year. In it's 3rd season this year, it has become known not just for Cookie & Lucious (the wonderful Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard) but several new actors and their characters. Serayah is one of those finds, who started her TV career with this show last year. Now her character Tiana Brown has become a beloved and integral part of the show.

Born in Encinitas, CA, Serayah is an actor, singer and dancer. She recently wrapped the lead role in the feature film “Burning Sands,” which is scheduled for release in 2017. In addition to her acting credits, Serayah is known for her role in Taylor Swift's mega-hit video “Bad Blood,” and is now working on a debut album of her own. She currently resides in Chicago.

Art Shrian had a chance to talk to Serayah recently. Here are the excerpts:

Art: Hi Serayah, thank you for your time. How are you?

Serayah: Good, how are you?

Art: Good, thanks. Congratulations on your wonderful show. I wonder, you’ve been part of the show since beginning, so looking at the evolution of your character, Tiana, where would you like it to go in next season or coming seasons? And as a person who’s also in similar shoes being a singer yourself, how does playing this role impact you in your personal life?

Serayah: Well, as far as my personal life, it impacts it in the way of being on TV and being recognized, but I think it’s pretty black and white because it’s glitz and glam for Empire, but I’m still working on everything in my personal life as far as other projects and things like that. I think for Tiana, the evolution of the character has been amazing, but I would like to just see her I guess do more of the music and everything that we’ve seen her do but I think just hear more from who she is maybe and things like that that we haven’t really seen from her.

Art: Considering you’ve spent a couple years with the character now, do you get to talk to the writers and improvise or is it still very scripted at this point? How is the environment on set?

Serayah: The environment on set is great, but as far as the writers, yes, before the season, I sometimes get to sit down with the writers and just think of different plots and things that could go on with my character. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to happen or it’s going to roll out that way because of all the other characters, but I definitely throw out ideas.

Art: That’s awesome, and that must be fun. You’re part of this wonderful show that’s kind of breaking the mold of TV shows for people of color, black TV shows that are more universal and after that, we have so many wonderful shows since, from Power to Atlanta, that are doing the same thing and expanding that universe. How does it feel to be part of such a wonderful show? And what’s your message to other storytellers, performers who are in similar space who will expand their space?

Serayah: What I really admire about the show that I’m on is not only that it is a black or relatively African-American cast but just that we’re seen in the light of not only black people can come from in the gutter or have nothing, but they can rise and become moguls and millionaires and things like that. So that’s what I really admire about the show. Also, I think it’s really amazing that now at this time we get to have black television back and see it back in action. For the young kids watching, it’s great.

Art: Absolutely, it reflects the world we live in, and that’s wonderful. So last question, what’s your favorite TV show right now that’s on TV? What do you like to watch when you get some time?

Serayah: I’m really into this show called Insecure. It’s on HBO. It just came out. It’s hilarious!

Art: Wonderful, it’s an amazing show.

Serayah: You like it? Yes, it’s amazing. Also the other show that I like is Power, and I really enjoy, I really like Blackish too. It’s a cool comedy. It’s super ditsy and funny and quirky.

Art: I completely agree. I love Insecure. It’s amazing. You should check out Atlanta if you get a chance, if you haven’t. It’s a wonderful show.

Serayah: I watched one episode, but I haven’t got to really get into it. It looked really good the way that it was shot.

Art: Thanks again for taking the time and congratulations on the show and your album coming out.

Serayah Thank you. Thank you!

Tune in to EMPIRE Wednesdays at 9/8c on FOX Get "Aces High" now: http://smarturl.it/AcesHighiTunes http://smarturl.it/AcesHighAM http://smarturl.it/AcesHighSP Follow Empire on socials: http://www.fox.com/empire https://twitter.com/EmpireFOX https://www.facebook.com/EmpireFOX https://instagram.com/empirefox/

SERAYAH (Tiana on EMPIRE) 

Born in Encinitas, CA, Serayah is an actor, singer and dancer. She recently wrapped the lead role in the feature film “Burning Sands,” which is scheduled for release in 2017. In addition to her acting credits, Serayah is known for her role in Taylor Swift's mega-hit video “Bad Blood,” and is now working on a debut album of her own. She currently resides in Chicago.

INVASION! - Team Flash, Arrow & LOT are back together, with Supergirl!

INVASION happened, and lead to HEROES vs ALIENS; aka the third annual crossover event of Arrowverse. This mega-event brought together Team Flash, Team Arrow, Legends of Tomorrow and Supergirl too. That seems like a LOT. And yes, it was a lot. A lot of chaos, with lot of fun.

The GOOD:

  • We got to see all our favorite DC superheroes from CW, together. As Felicity Smoak said: The best superhero team-up ever!
  • Supergirl joined the wonderful team. Even after moving to CW. Supergirl still happens to be on a different earth & different universe. But it's nothing a little cross-dimensional travel etc etc cannot solve. Does this mean we can see these guys in movie universe as well?
  • Some good action sequences and visual delight. Specially the "Avengers" inspired, climaxe run-up. DC TV shows on CW, manage to put on a good show on TV. But the crossover event always gives you more. And it's fun!
  • We got to see lot of past/lost/dead characters back, from Arrow. Yep, that was cool. Laurel Lance, Moira Quenn, Robert Queen, Tommy Merlyn, Roy Harper and Deathstroke (without Manu Bennett though).
  • We go to see some of Arrow's not so frequently seen villains too, including Damien Dark and Malcom Merlyn (although we get to see them on LOT).
  • The dream sequence in Arrow, where Oliver has a different life, was pretty cool. 
  • Bunch of inside jokes:
    • Tommy is a doctor in Chicago - Malocm Merlyn, about Tommy Merlyn
    • She looks like my cousin - Ray Palmer, abut Supergirl/Kara
  • We got to see some crazy Aliens, outside of Supergirl. Although Team Flash & Team Arrow seem to enjoy the Aliens even more. Specially Felicity & Cisco.
  • We got to see a rematch of Flash & Supergirl, and it was so damn cool! 

Not so GOOD:

  • It was a lot of chaos, little too much. Too many characters, and too many subplots, that did not get proper attention.
  • Every episode felt like an individual episode to some extent. I mean, the main characters from that episode got more attention. Which is okay. But would've been nice to have a cohesive 3-part mini-series kind of show.
  • The characters kept appearing & disappearing, which was annoying. Rory disappeared in Arrow episode, Thea was not seen in LOT episode etc etc. I mean, there were lot of characters, but some weren't handled that well. 
  • Why were Roy and Felicity amongst the deads, when Oliver left the dream state? 
  • The aliens were kind of lame. We have seen lot of aliens on Supergirl, and these aliens seemed definitely one of the lamest. You would expect better from a mega-episode.
  • The climate was not as exciting. No real BIG BATTLE or anything. At least it didn't feel like that. The usual fight on a rooftop, and aliens defeated. Something BIGGER would be expected with all these Superheroes. Right?

What was missing:

  • Cisco should've met Winn. This was our chance to see the 2 "super nerds" together. Or at least, Kara should've commented on that. I mean, c'mon!
  • Where were Roy and Manu Bennet himself as Deathshteoke? They were there, but not really. Ugh!!
  • Martian Manhunter should've been there. He's awesome. And Alex too. And maybe Superman too? I know, note in asking for too much hahaha!
  • Supergirl should've had some cool scene with Ray Palmer. A bigger superman joke?
  • More mind control & fight between the Superheroes. Right?
  • Should've been 4 episodes, instead of 3. We want more!

Regardless of everything that may not seem right, this crossover was awesome. So glad that CW is able to do this. DC TV shows are still the best, and they know how to handle there stuff. Hopefully Justice League learns a little from them, and gives us some better films. Until then, we continue to enjoy Marvel movies and DC TV shows!

The Dominators are coming...can DC's heroes team up to stop them? The invasion begins Monday at 8/7c on The CW! Starts with Supergirl on Monday, leading into Tuesday's The Flash, and Wednesday's Arrow, finally culminating on Thursday during Legends of Tomorrow.

FREEFORM GOES ‘BEYOND’ TRADITIONAL SERIES LAUNCH FOR NEW SCI-FI SAGA ‘BEYOND’ - FULL SEASON AVAILABLE FOR BINGE Jan 2nd

In a Network First, All Ten Episodes of ‘Beyond’ Will Be Available Via Digital Platforms, Including the Freeform App, Freeform.com, On Demand and Hulu Simultaneous with the Two-Hour Television Premiere Event on Monday, January 2

At the New York Comic Con, Art Shrian talked to the star of the show Burkley Duffield. Here's the video:

New York Comic Con 2016: "Beyond" from Freeform, stars Burkely Duffield. Art Shrian chatted with Burkley about his role, the show, being an actor and being at the Comic Con.

During the New York Comic Con panel for “Beyond,” Freeform announced that the highly anticipated series will have its on-air debut on MONDAY, JANUARY 2, 2017, at 9:00 p.m. EST, with a special two-hour premiere event. Additionally, the network announced that on January 2 at 9:00 p.m., the entire first season of “Beyond” will be available on multiple digital platforms, including the Freeform app, Freeform.com, On Demand and Hulu.

“The premiere of ‘Beyond’ marks an important milestone in the history of Freeform, nearly a year since our rebrand,” said Tom Ascheim, president, Freeform. “One of the promises we made to our audience at the time was to create content they love and to make that content easily accessible. ‘Beyond’ helps us live up to both promises. In the same way we modernized our brand, we are modernizing how we bring our shows to our audience. ‘Beyond’ is our first, and definitely not our last, ‘binge-from-the-start’ show.” 

“Beyond” is a one-hour drama about Holden, a young man who wakes up from a coma after 12 years and discovers new abilities that propel him into the middle of a dangerous conspiracy. Now Holden must try and figure out what happened to him during those 12 years; how to survive a world that changed while he was gone; and answer the question, why did this happen to him?

Photo Credit: Freeform/Katie Yu*

“Beyond” stars Burkely Duffield (“House of Anubis”) as Holden Matthews, Romy Rosemont (“Glee”) as Diane Matthews, Michael McGrady (“American Crime Story: The People vs. O.J. Simpson”) as Tom Matthews, Jonathan Whitesell (“Once Upon a Time”) as Luke Matthews, Dilan Gwyn (“Da Vinci’s Demons”) as Willa and Jeff Pierre (“Shameless”) as Jeff McArdle.

Don't miss the series premiere of Beyond on Monday, January 2 at 9pm/8c on Freeform! RUN (High Society Remix) AWOLNATION Download the app: http://hyperurl.co/freeformapp Find out where you can watch Freeform: whatchannelfreeform.com Subscribe on YouTube: http://bit.ly/2cY0ZPe https://www.facebook.com/BeyondTVSeries/ https://twitter.com/beyondtvseries https://www.instagram.com/beyond/ http://beyondtvseries.tumblr.com Snapchat: BeyondTVSeries

From Imperative Entertainment and Automatik, “Beyond” is created, written and executive produced by Adam Nussdorf (“Once Upon a Time in Wonderland”). Tim Kring (“Heroes”), David Eick (“Battlestar Galactica”), Steven Adelson, Zak Kadison, Justin Levy and Brian Kavanaugh-Jones will serve as executive producers.

 

You can become a fan of the shows on social media at:  www.beyondtvseries.com