"The Devils Are Here" - Recap of 'Empire' Season 2, Episode 1

I’ll admit that my head was spinning after the season finale of “Empire” last spring. It seemed like the writers crammed everything they could into a two-hour story block, and it left me feeling off kilter and befuddled.  During last night’s season premiere, I felt the same way almost until the very end of the episode.

The season premiere of “Empire” picked up three months after Lucious’ initial incarceration. With Jamal still in position as the head of Empire; the rest of the Lyons are playing nice for the time being. Cookie and Jamal have put together a Free Lucious concert hosted by Swizz Beats and attended by nearly every black celeb known to man. From Al Sharpton to Andre Leon Talley, it was cameo overload, and not in a good way. When Don Lemon popped up out of nowhere, I really wanted to fight my TV screen.

Still, nothing could have prepared me for Cookie dropping on the stage in a cage while wearing a gorilla suit.  As talented as Lee Daniels is, this was just #teamtoomuch. Though I did appreciate the show driving home the fact that thousands of Black men are unfairly incarcerated, Cookie’s chanting “How Much Longer?!” did not make me feel sympathetic towards Lucious. Even Reverend Al said he was a lost cause.

After Cookie gets the crowd riled up, Jamal takes the stage to perform on his father’s behalf and we cut to Lucious watching all of this on a rather fancy television from prison.  It turns out that Lucious is basically The Godfather of jail and he already has his minions set up to do his bidding.  A shifty prisoner (who turns out to be another one of Cookie’s cousins) Jermel (played by DeRay Davis) begs Lucious to protect him from a gangster named Frank Gathers. Lucious isn’t too keen on the idea, he has no beef with Gathers and he’s not trying to start any. Lucious gives Jermel a swift brush off just in time to see Hakeem take the stage.

Continue reading at Shadow and Act.

Review: Fox’s 'Rosewood' Is Vibrant, Flashy and a Whole Lot of Fun

With so many medical dramas on television, it seems nearly impossible for one show to stick out over the others. For an audience to stay hooked, a show must have gripping storylines and captivating characters that will entice viewers to tune in week after week. Fox’s “Rosewood” has these elements and so much more. Gorgeously shot and saturated with the vibrant colors of Miami, “Rosewood” follows Dr. Beaumont Rosewood Jr.; played brilliantly and humorously by veteran actor Morris Chestnut. Rosewood is a private pathologist who likes to insert himself and his unbridled knowledge about corpses into the Miami homicide department’s most troubling cases, much to the chagrin of the members of the police department.

Though Rosewood comes off as annoying at first, his charm and charisma (which Chestnut has mastered), softens not only the other characters he interacts with, but the audience as well. Rosewood is an extremely complex character and many of his various sides are yet to be seen. It’s clear that he enjoys life and wants everyone around him to do so as well, despite having his own haunting demons.

Structured similarly to Fox’s long running show “Bones”, Rosewood meets his match in an unlikely partnership with Detective Annalise Villa; a role played so ferociously by relative newcomer, Jania Lee Ortiz that it’s clear she’s destined for great things. Like Rosewood, Detective Villa is not quite who she appears to. The chemistry between the actors and the push and pull of their characters’ relationship keeps the show churning at a delicious pace.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Interview: Chatting w/ Morris Chestnut About Heading to TV to Star in Fox's New Series, 'Rosewood'

The debonair Morris Chestnut first captivated audiences with his portrayal of Ricky in John Singleton’s classic film, “Boyz n the Hood”. Since then, Chestnut has been a leading man in numerous films, including the recent thriller “A Perfect Guy” alongside Sanaa Lathan and Michael Ealy. Though the 46-year old actor’s most notable roles have been in films, he also has also appeared in major television series including “Nurse Jackie” and “American Horror Story”. Fox’s new medical dramedy “Rosewood” will show a very different side of the generally more serious actor. Chestnut will star as Dr. Beaumont Rosewood Jr., a private pathologist with a penchant for finding clues about the dead and who might be hiding some very serious secrets of his own.

Chestnut recently sat down to talk about his new show at a screening of the pilot episode. Here is what he told Shadow and Act.

On Becoming Dr. Beaumont Rosewood Jr.:

It was tough. I pretty much prepared on a case-by-case basis depending on what they had me do. We have technical advisors and doctors on the set to advise me on the best way to do procedures, and give me information on certain aspects of doing autopsies. My character is definitely flawed from a heath standpoint. He has certain things that he can’t do because of his heath issues, and that’s one thing that I love about the character because nobody’s perfect. He’s not a superhero. He tries to do right by people, he tries to do right in life, and he tries to do by women.

On Working With Lorraine Toussaint:

She’s a great actress. She came to the show a little bit late, but she’s definitely a welcome addition. She’s incredible. I love doing scenes with her because she’s so emotional and it adds so much depth to the show.

On Rosewood’s Closeness to Death:

That’s one of the aspects of the character that I love. He treats each day like it’s his last day.  He knows his days are numbered, but he tries to instill optimism in everyone he touches and everyone he comes across on a daily basis. He enjoys life, and he wants others to enjoy life and have fun. You have to savor every moment and don’t take things for granted.

On Character Development:

Watching the character grow I think, is the fun part about a television show. All of the characters are going to grow and develop. That’s why I like to hear what people have to say about the show, because it’s not like a movie. Once we do a movie and it’s done, it’s out there and nothing is going to change. With this, if it’s something that you guys liked, or something you didn’t like that you want to see then let me know. Our writers are very receptive and you guys are our audience and we make this type of entertainment for you. That’s why I’m always open to hearing what you have to say.

On the Recent Change in Hollywood for Black Actors:

I think it’s great. With “Empire” doing as well as it’s doing, it’s open up the doors for us to have other types of entertainment out there, and different types of shows. Hollywood listens to people. People always ask me if Hollywood is Black or white. It’s really green. If people are watching, they’re going to provide you guys with more entertainment. You guys have much more of a voice then you make think, so if you don’t watch then Hollywood will stop making and producing these types of shows.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Interview: A Post-'Django Unchained' Career Conversation w/ Nichole Galicia (Syfy's 'Defiance')

Though Nichole Galicia began her career as a high fashion model strutting across runways around the globe, it was her breakout role in Quentin Tarantino’s 2012 film “Django Unchained” that got everyone buzzing about her. In the film she plays Sheba, the de facto wife of Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Calvin Candie. Most recently Galicia has starred in the Syfy series “Defiance” as Kindzi, a vicious femme fatale alien who is as respected as she is feared. Galicia took the time out of her busy schedule during New York Fashion week to chat with Shadow and Act about Kindzi and “Defiance”, working with Tarantino, and her upcoming project.

Thanks so much Ms. Galicia for speaking with me and with Shadow and Act, I’ve been really looking forward to chatting with you about your upcoming projects and all of the great things that you’ve been working on.

Shadow and Act:  Though you began your career as a high fashion model, working with everyone from Neutrogena to Vogue, you have most recently turned to acting. How different are these two worlds for you? Do you have any regrets about shifting your focus towards film and television?

Nichole Galicia: I love modeling. It involves beautiful clothes, amazing locations and gorgeous photographs so what’s not to like? However, I was always meant to be an actor, so I have zero regrets.  My experience as a model has aided me in navigating the business side of acting, but I also use a lot of the techniques I learned as a model in my acting, like movement, subtly, and improv.

S&A: Quentin Tarantino is such a polarizing and well-respected filmmaker. Were you aware of “Django Unchained’s” plot prior to accepting the role of Sheba? Were you hesitant at all about becoming a part of such an iconic filmmaker’s filmography? 

NG: I read the script for “Django Unchained” before accepting the part, but honestly I would have accepted any part Quentin had to offer.  He’s Quentin Tarantino.  He’s a genius. I’m a huge fan of his work and have such an immense respect for him.  In this industry, if you don’t ruffle a few feathers you probably suck.  Quentin does not suck.

S&A: Can you tell me how you landed the role?

NG: I auditioned for a role in “Death Proof”, which was apart of “Grindhouse”, the film Quentin did with Robert Rodriquez.  Quentin loved my read, but said he had always envisioned the character as blond haired and blue-eyed and wanted to stay true to his vision. But he promised me he’d keep me in mind for future projects, so when “Django” came along he said he “needed a girl with confidence 200 years in the making” and that girl to my surprise and joy was me.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Review: Talented Actors Are Wasted in the Disappointing Thriller, 'The Perfect Guy'

As a young woman, I've always been hyper-aware of my surroundings and my personal space. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, lessons in the importance of safety were constantly relayed to me. I was told to carry an extra $20 around with me at all times, walk with keys in hand, and to walk in middle of the street if it was dark and no one was around. Those lessons (passed down to me from my parents) have stuck with me into adulthood and I assume the same is true for most women who live in large cities. "The Perfect Guy" tells the story of Leah, who manages to forget all of the basic rules because she becomes single-mindedly fixated on the dream of a husband, kids, and a happily ever after.  Naturally because of this, disaster ensues.

The talented and stunning Sanaa Lathan plays Leah who breaks up with her boyfriend Dave (Morris Chestnut) when he is unwillingly to agree to the timeline she sets for marriage. Leah quickly falls into a steamy affair with a new guy Carter, played impeccably by Michael Ealy, who appears to be the total package even sharing Leah’s desire for marriage and a family. Not so surprisingly, Carter isn't quite the Prince Charming Leah thought he was. After displaying unfounded rage, which seemingly comes out of nowhere, Leah puts an end to their short affair. Of course, Carter doesn’t take too kindly to this, and he begins to rip her life apart piece by piece.

Though there are some good components in "The Perfect Guy," mainly due to the fact that Lathan portrays a successful, independent, Black woman who is apologetically in control of her body and sexuality, and Ealy who successfully captures the maniacal and psychopathic character of Carter, the film unfortunately falls flat. It seems too far-fetched that such a powerful woman would let down her guard entirely, and allow a total stranger complete access to her and her loved ones. Perhaps it would have been more realistic if Lathan’s character was desperate, but she didn’t come across that way at all.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: Screen Gems/ Sony Pictures

Skyler Shaye Dishes On Growing Up Amongst Hollywood Royalty, Her Role in ‘Ray Donovan,’ And Reminds Us How She Brought MerDer Together On ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

Growing up in Los Angeles and rubbing shoulders with major Hollywood figures during family dinner parties definitely sounds like a dream to most, one that many aspiring artists wish for every day. Admittedly, there are benefits to the star-studded, glamorous lifestyle: friendships are forged and connections are made. However, carving out a name for yourself among all of that glitziness can prove to be a bit more difficult than one would imagine. Children of major icons like Goldie Hawn and Will Smith have managed to stand on their own, settings themselves apart from their famous families. Still, this was not achieved without some extremely difficult work on their part.

According to actress Skyler Shaye, who can be seen in the third season of Showtime’s Ray Donovan, connections aren’t everything. At the end of the day, you still have to prove that you deserve to be there; you want to make a statement. And then there’s also the factor of wanting to distinguish yourself from your family, showcasing that you’re your own person and not just a name. “I think that people on the outside think it would be so much easier because I’m so connected. It helps in a certain sense because you meet people, but that doesn’t get you the role,” she says.

Shaye might be best known for her role as Cloe, the super-skilled soccer player who relentlessly tries to keep her friendships together in Bratz: The Movie (2007). However, the bubbly and warmhearted Shaye boasts another important title. At 17, she starred in the pilot episode, “A Hard Day’s Night,” of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy as Katie Bryce, the patient that essentially brought Meredith Grey and Derek Shepherd together.

Together with the guidance of her super famous godfather Jon Voight and her matchless talent and brimming determination, Shaye is more than ready to take Hollywood by storm with all of the incredible projects that she has coming up. On a sunny afternoon, the native Angelino took the time to chat with GALO about her role in the third season of Ray Donovan, her favorite memories from Grey’s Anatomy, and her advice for teen girls today.

GALO: First of all, I want to congratulate you on your new role on Ray Donovan. That’s so amazing!

Skyler Shaye: Thank you so much! I’m really excited.

GALO: Well, to just jump right in, for your upcoming role on Ray Donovan, I read that you will be playing a prostitute and that your character is really fun and down to earth. Can you give me a bit more insight into your role?

SS: Honestly, I can’t really say much more about what the storyline is, but the actual show this season is really badass. There are so many different elements going on.

GALO: I heard it’s going to be unbelievably incredible.

Continue Reading at GALO Magazine.

Image: TJ Manou

'Straight Outta Compton' Is An Amazing Film, But It Omits Some Ugly Truths

I screened F. Gary Grey's Straight Outta Compton twice before it hit theaters. Both times, I was enraptured in the film.  (You can read my review on Shadow and Act) N.W.A. was born out of Compton, California at a time when the community was reeling from the drug epidemic and unimaginable impoverishment. The group and their hit songs not only helped birth hip-hop as we know it, but would also introduce the world to some of the most revered rap artists of our time, including Eminem and Snoop Dogg. From what I knew about the group prior to seeing Compton as well as the film's portrayal, it was a long and very difficult road for N.W.A. to get where they are now. Though Grey was careful not to gloss over many aspects of the groups rise and subsequent disbandment, as I dug more into the history of the group, I learned there were still many voices silenced in the film.

In 1991, Dr. Dre, viciously attacked and beat a young journalist by the name of Dee Barnes in a nightclub. It seems that he was displeased with N.W.A. depiction in an interview Barnes did with Ice Cube. Barnes' lawsuit against Dr. Dre for the crime was eventually settled out of court in 1993. This horrific event was not depicted at all in Straight Outta Compton, despite the fact that the film chronicles the group from 1986 to group member Eric "Easy- E" Wright's death in 1995. Likewise, Dr. Dre's tumultuous and often violent relationship with artist Michel’le was never acknowledged. Furthermore, the film erases the major contributions of female hip-hop artists including Ice Cube's female protegee Yo-Yo; nor the many horrific and mysoginist lyrics from tracks like "A Bitch Iz a Bitch" and "She Swallowed It". Film director Grey has been reluctant to address any of these topics, telling the Associated Press that the original cut of the film which included the group members relationships with women came in at three and half hours, and the film had to be cut down.

As I said previously, the film is exquisite not just in the perfect way it captures Compton in the late 1980's and 90's and the casts stunning portrayals, but also for the stark parallels that it draws between the Rodney King trials and LA Riots as well as  the #BlackLivesMatter movement and issues with police brutality that we are still dealing with presently. And yet, all of these things do not erase the many issues the group had with women. They may have been omitted in the film, but they can certainly not be erased or ignored because they did happen.

Film director Ava DuVernay who was born and raised in Compton during this time period, penned an eloquent twitter essay about Straight Outta Compton acknowledging the beauty of the film, but also the harsh realities for women and hip-hop culture.

It seems obvious why Dr. Dre and Ice Cube who were directly involved in the project, didn't want their dirty laundry aired on screen. As Dee Barnes said in her Gawker essay about the film and her experience, "The truth is too ugly for a general audience." As a woman who is black and who is deeply in love with hip-hop, I find myself once again in a very peculiar space. trying to understand the Intersectionalities that continue to pull me in various directions. Hip-hop is and will continue to be been problematic for women, and we must continue to speak about that and voice our opinions. As women, we must continue to tell the stories that no one wants us to tell, even if they are ugly and brutal and not easily digested by a larger audience. I would still urge everyone to see Straight Outta Compton. The film is truly is a stunning work and it speaks deeply to our time, but it's certainly not the whole truth.

Watch the trailer below.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrlLcb7zYmw&oref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DOrlLcb7zYmw&has_verified=1[/embed]

Images: Universal Pictures/Jaimie Trueblood (2)

Review: 'Straight Outta Compton' Is a Film That Speaks for Our Time

F. Gary Gray's “Straight Outta Compton” quite literally opens with a bang and it only gets more explosive as the story continues. The film follows the polarizing hip-hop group N.WA's almost unimaginable rise to success as well as their many setbacks.As the film opens, Gray is unapologetic about dropping his audience into Compton in the late 1980's, which honestly is not somewhere anyone wants to be. This is not at all the color-saturated, upbeat world from his debut film “Friday” (1995). The drug epidemic, along with Reagan’s war on drugs, completely decimated the community, enabling very few to become successful. Honestly, the bleary muted tones along with the grit and grime of “Compton” makes John Singleton's “Boyz n the Hood” look almost warm and inviting. Yet despite the many odds against them, the men of N.W.A were able to thrive, with Ice Cube as the group’s lyricist, Dr. Dre on the beats, and Easy-E backing the group financially, as their records began rising to the top.

With biopics, I've always found that there are two different types of films: Films that are made just because the subject is of interest to the general public; and those that are made when the subjects of said film - or their families, or some source close to them - back the project. Unlike Lifetime’s “Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B” debacle, “Straight Outta Compton” has N.W.A’s blessing stamped all over it.  Also Gray has a history of working with Ice Cube, first on his music video for “Today Was a Good Day” and then on “Friday”. However, chronicling the group from 1986 to Easy-E’s death in 1995, Gray was careful not to smooth over any of the group members’ most sobering moments. From a family death, money troubles, and Easy-E's HIV diagnosis, the group’s trials and tribulations are laid bare for the world to see.

The film is remarkable because of how deeply it will resonate with today's audience; not just because of the music and the talent that paved the way for icons like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar, but because of the prevalent theme of police brutality that runs throughout the film’s plot. The group is motivated to make their megahit “Fuck Tha Police” after experiencing some severe police harassment. Likewise, the Rodney King assault and trials are a constant, which ground the film soundly in the early 90s. However, when you consider the LA Riots and Ferguson, it becomes haunting and painful to see that we are still dealing with the same issues nearly 25 years later.

Continue reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: "Straight Outta Compton" Film Poster

Review: 'Sneakerheadz' is a Love Letter to Sneaker Fanatics (In Theaters Friday, August 7)

Though I have never personally owned a pair of Air Jordan shoes, I once scoured all of the MAC Cosmetic stores in New York City for a limited edition Rihanna lipstick; so I understand the obsession with wanting a special product. Everyone has their vices and though sneakers aren’t mine, I appreciate the motivation that drives sneaker enthusiasts and collectors. “Sneakerheadz” is a film about desire, consumption, style and nostalgia. The documentary is a sneaker novice’s introduction into the world of sneaker culture that simultaneously pays homage to the sneakerheads of the world.

The film opens with the history of sneakers, which coincided with the growth of hip-hop, as well as a fascination with popular athletes. From RUN-DMC’s historic Adidas contract, to the debut of the first Air Jordans in 1984, sneakers have been a significant component of popular culture for quite some time. In order to give the audience a chronological timeline, “Sneaekerheadz” makes use of old commercials starring huge sports figures like Magic Johnson, as well as childhood photographs from street cultural figures, like Mike Epps and Frank the Butcher. The set up was reminiscent of Rick Famuyiwa’s opening sequence from 2002’s “Brown Sugar”, where hip-hop artists recounted how they fell in love with hip-hop.

Despite the numerous historical facts in the film, “Sneakerheadz” doesn’t get bogged down in the past; it stretches and expands (literally) across the globe. From California to Tokyo, the film gives its audience a glimpse into how urban street wear and sneaker culture has influenced many facets of the world. The film boats snippets of vast personal collections that number into the thousands, a glossary breakdown of words like “colorway” and “deadstock”, and it carefully immerses its viewers into an environment that can feel very perplexing to those of us who don’t have the same passion for sneakers.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: Sneakerheadz Film Poster

Review - Spike TV's Sword-and-Sandals Miniseries Entry 'Tut' Is 'Game of Thrones' Lite

I find it confounding and disheartening that Hollywood continues to refuse to use actors of African descent to portray citizens of Ancient Egypt. Spike TV’s new miniseries “Tut”, which follows the saga of King Tutankhamun (played by Canadian actor of British-Indian descent, Avan Jogia) during his rise to power, does not break the mold as I would have hoped. Though the casting was nowhere as abysmal as was the case in Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods and Kings”, the use of actors of English, Indian and Mexican descent in prominent roles, did not sit well with me. As Spike TV’s first return to scripted programming, this three-night six-hour miniseries is a coming-of-age story about a boy who is remembered in history as one of the greatest Pharaohs the world has ever seen. King Tut came to power in 1332 BC at nine years old, and was forced to marry his sister in order to ensure a pure bloodline. As history tells us, boy-kings rarely have any true power, as is the case with Tut. For a decade, he is shielded from real politics and decision-making by his advisor Ay (Ben Kingsley), military leader General Horemheb (Nonso Anozie), and the High Priest Amun (Alexander Sidding).

Desperate to become a leader who refuses to hide in the shadows, King Tut comes into his own just as Egypt is on the verge of collapse. While his closest advisors have been plotting against him, a rival tribe - the Mitanni (who are portrayed by dark-skinned Black actors) - has conspired against Egypt, and a deadly plague is quickly approaching Thebes. Tut realizes that he must take control of his kingdom, even if that means turning against his advisors.

While I felt that the series' creators did themselves a disservice by neglecting to use more actors of African descent, especially in key roles, I wouldn't entirely dismiss the work.

If you’re a fan of HBO’s “Game of Thrones”, you’ll appreciate the power struggle between King Tut and the men (and women) who surrounded him, it’s very much in the same vein as the high council at King’s Landing. Like “GoT”, Spike TV’s “Tut” has epic battle scenes, sultry romances, and even an incestuous story line between Tut and his Sister/Queen Ankhe. As Tut begins to open his eyes (and ears) to the world around him, he becomes aware of the conspiracies against him, as well as his own inadequacies as a leader.

Continue reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: Tut/SpikeTV

Review: 'Ant-Man' Pleasantly Surprised This Marvel Non-Enthusiast

Marvel’s "Ant-Man" is a superhero film for the underdog. The film follows ex-con man Scott Lang, who finds himself down on his luck after being released from San Quentin prison. Comedian Paul Rudd plays Scott flawlessly, who after being fired from Baskin-Robbins gets himself roped into one last big score in an effort to get back into his young daughter’s life. Instead of finding money or jewels, Scott and his rag tag group of friends; Luis (Michael Peña), Dave (TI) and Kurt (David Dastmalchian) come across a peculiar looking leather suit. Things quickly spiral out of control when the gang inadvertently finds themselves involved in a power struggle and corporate espionage between major conglomerates, PYM Industries and Cross Technologies.Admittedly I’m not a huge Marvel enthusiast, so when I first heard about Ant-Man, I thought it sounded like a retelling of "A Bug's Life" for adults. Nonetheless, the film really surprised me. First and foremost, Rudd and Peña are comedic gold. Peña's genius is consistently overlooked and underrated, so it was a ton of fun to watch him in his element.  Throughout the film, Rudd and Peña ebbed and flowed with the same witty, dark, humor that director Peyton Reed has captured perfectly in some of his prior films. Coming from the same team that produced last year's "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Ant-Man" had a familiar feeling to it because there was no Asgard, nor any other mythical place to serve as a distraction.

"Ant-Man’s" special effects are jaw dropping. I'm certainly not a gal who loves insects, but even in the film’s most absurd moments, the ants feel real and look extremely life-like. The most visually arresting component of the film is the way it captures Scott's point of view when he’s shrunken in size. There is one bathroom scene in particular that was simply, visually delicious.

Michael Douglas is fine as Dr. Hank Pym (the man who Scott steals from) but the real talent on camera is Corey Stoll as Dr. Darren Cross. Stoll is able to really embody the crazed, maniacal, instability of his villainous character. As I watched him, I found myself wishing that DC Comics had chosen him to play Lex Luther in "Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice."

The one thing that disappointed me a great deal about "Ant-Man" was the thin romance between Scott and Dr. Pym's daughter, Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly). Their relationship felt forced and jumbled.  I was annoyed that Marvel reduced Lily’s character to simply Scott’s love interest. It was wholly unnecessary, trite and frankly quite dull. Speaking of women, why does Judy Greer (who plays Scott’s ex-wife) play the same role in every film? I just saw her in "Jurassic World" and frankly her character was a bit one-dimensional for my taste.

Continue Reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: Marvel/Ant-Man

Interview: Chatting with Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker About their New Fox Talk Show & More

We all watched Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker fall in love on Showtime’s "Soul Food" fifteen years ago. The duo had electric chemistry then, and all these years later they are still going strong, having just celebrated ten years of marriage. With numerous projects under their belt, including Parker’s 2012 Broadway debut in "A Street Car Named Desire" and her role on TNT’s "Murder in the First," as well as Kodjoe’s recent roles on Fox’s "The Last Man on Earth" and BET’s "Real Husband’s of Hollywood," it appears that this couple is just getting started.

Today, July 6th, their new talk show "The Boris & Nicole Show," debuts on Fox (check your local listings for exact times).

Kodjoe and Parker recently chatted with Shadow and Act about their new endeavor, their home life, and what they would be doing if they weren’t actors.

Aramide Tinubu: First of all I’d like to commend you both on your extraordinary careers. It’s been a pleasure to watch you on the big and small screens, even when I was too young to be watching you on 'Soul Food.' Also, congratulations on your ten year wedding anniversary, that’s an amazing accomplishment.

Boris Kodjoe: Thank you.

Aramide Tinubu:  The Boris & Nicole Show is really groundbreaking. There has never been a national talk show hosted by a couple; especially not a Black couple. How important is it for our society to see this very particular perspective?

Boris Kodjoe: I think we’ve never really talked about it in that sense, because when you’re part of something like this, the true nature or the potential of what it means doesn’t become apparent until years later.  Just like with Soul Food, so we can’t really worry about it at this point. We’re really enjoying the process; we’re super excited about doing it. The idea has been floating around for five years, and we’ve finally decided to bring it to Fox and they were really excited about it. So, we’re really enjoying the journey. We’re really having a great time together and we can’t wait to connect with people.

Continue reading at Shadow and Act.

Image: FOX

Keith Powers Talks ‘Straight Outta Compton,’ Leaving Football Behind and Playing the Villain

Biopics can often be nerve-wracking experiences for all of those involved. Paying homage to actual people and portraying their lives in a real and fair way can certainly put a lot of pressure on the actors involved with the project. Hence, it goes without saying that expectations often run high, especially from fans and those who knew (or know) the person being depicted — and sometimes even the person themselves. However, if the actor is fearless, the experience can be one of the best that he or she has ever had. Take, for example, Jamie Foxx’s portrayal of Ray Charles in Ray (2004). He was so extraordinary that it earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Likewise, Angela Bassett’s depiction of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It? (1993) is still one of the best performances I have ever seen by any actor on screen. With only a few years of acting under his belt, 22-year-old Keith Powers is already making a name for himself in the entertainment industry. A former football player turned model/actor, Powers is best known for his role as the charismatic “new kid,” Theo (aka Anthony), in MTV’s groundbreaking series Faking It. However, after this summer’s premiere of the highly-anticipated N.W.A. biopic, Straight Outta Compton, a film that chronicles the rise and fall of the pioneering hip-hop group, everyone will see how fearless he really is. In fact, he’s got the real makings of a leading man. In the film, Powers portrays Dr. Dre’s younger brother, Tyree Crayon, who died in 1990 while Dr. Dre was on tour with N.W.A.

With the media mogul’s blessing, Powers was able to pay homage to a man long gone, but one that is still tremendously important to Dr. Dre’s life. This certainly was no easy feat, embodying a loved one of a powerful cultural figure has to be mind-boggling. However, it sounds like Powers really nailed the role. “He gave me all of these amazing things, and now I get to give him his little brother on film, in front of everybody. And from what I heard, he really liked my performance,” he tells us.

Taking time out of his increasingly busy schedule, Powers chatted with us about the buzz surrounding the upcoming biopic, his move from the sports world into entertainment, and his “man crush” on Brad Pitt, all while showing us just how diverse and talented he truly is.

GALO: I’ve been really looking forward to chatting with you about your upcoming projects and all of the great things that you’ve been working on.

Keith Powers: Thanks.

GALO: I read that you ended your football career and turned to acting and modeling. How different are these two worlds for you? Do you have any regrets about leaving the sporting world behind?  

KP: First of all, yes, they are totally different worlds. Football is a competitive sport. I come from Sacramento, California, and how I was raised [was that] either you were playing sports or you were a scholar — or you were both. The area of Sacramento that I [grew] up in was the type of environment where you feel like there isn’t too much else to do. You’re going to have a regular nine to five [job], you’re going to be a lawyer or a doctor, or you’re going to be in the streets.

It’s two different worlds because when you get the opportunity to be a model and travel the world, you meet these photographers, these beautiful women, and these other models. Of course, you have the other side of that. You have to deal with the people in the industry who act bourgeoisie, but that’s any aspect of life, you’re [always] going to run into those types of people.

GALO: Of course, they are everywhere.

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Image: Keith Powers/Marc Cartwright.

Review: 'What Happened, Miss Simone' Leaves Us Wondering What Happens When What You Love Most, Haunts You

Iconic cultural figures are often placed on pedestals. They remain mysterious to us and we are left to speculate about their lives and experiences. It is rare for someone who has been so revered and idolized globally to have the opportunity to share their own story. Using Nina Simone’s own words, interviews with her family and friends, as well as footage from her life, Academy Award nominated director Liz Garbus paints a portrait of a woman who was both a master, and a victim of her time. Nina Simone’s life was one of both unimaginable success and gut wrenching suffering.

Reflecting back on life is no easy feat, it’s often a painful task to undertake, leaving the subject vulnerable and exposed; their flawless image forever riddled with unpleasant truths. And yet, when these truths are brought to light, it is the humanity of that subject that shines through.

"What Happened, Miss Simone?" acts as an introduction for new fans of Nina Simone, while providing a deeper understanding of the songstress for long time supporters. The film chronicles Nina Simone from her humble beginnings to her modest end.

Garbus’ documentary works so well because of its structure. Simone was a woman who desired more than the world was willing to give. Garbus eschews typical documentary style filmmaking, allowing Simone’s own perspective on her own work and life to shine through. Though her voice was glorious, her real forte was her ability to embody revolution through her music. Despite push-back, Nina Simone’s musical contributions to society during the Civil Right’s movement, gave her drive and purpose.

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[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moOQXZxriKY[/embed]

Image: "What Happened, Miss Simone?"/Netflix

ABFF 2015 Review: 'In My Father’s House' Is a Powerful Work on Family, Abuse and Fatherhood

Statistics say that 75% of Black children are born in single-family households, a number that has increased exponentially since the 1960s. Directors Annie Sundberg and Ricki Stern’s surprisingly bold documentary "In My Father’s House" follows Che ‘Rhymefest’ Smith as he embarks on a journey to find his absentee father, a man that he never knew. After buying the house that his father grew up in, Che is suddenly desperate to learn about the man who is responsible for his existence.

At first glance, the subject seems rather tiresome and cliché. Another Black man without a father, Che defied the odds and left behind his rough Chicago neighborhood and found major success in music. (He co-wrote “Jesus Walks” with Kanye West and “Glory” with Common and John Legend.) However, when Che finally does reconnect with his father, he finds him living on the street a few blocks from his home. Brian Tillman is a destitute man; he’s an alcoholic who has been living on the streets of Chicago for the past twenty years. And yet, despite his circumstances, Brian brings light humor and warmth to an otherwise devastating subject matter. He’s charismatic and extremely intelligent, but also somehow broken, either by the cycle of Black oppression or something equally as sinister.

A Chicago native, it was thrilling to see the real Chi-town on screen. The film showed neighborhoods and places that were familiar to me, it didn’t focus on the glitz and glam of downtown. The documentary felt authentic because it didn't smooth over the grit and ugliness of the city. Like "Hoop Dreams" (1994) and "Cooley High" (1975) the city wasn’t simply a backdrop in the story. The harsh winters, segregation and violence all honestly played a part in the story. Brian lived and thrived on the streets and the camera was right there with him.

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Image: 'In My Father's House' Film

Review: Rick Famuyiwa's 'Dope' Is Like a John Hughes Film Flipped on Its Head

If you aren't careful, the world will try to tell you who you are, and you might be dumb enough to believe it.

Rick Famuyiwa's "Dope" follows high school senior Malcolm (Shameik Moore), and his two best friends Jib (Tony Revolori) and Diggy (Kiersey Clemons), as they struggle to fit into their Inglewood, California neighborhood that's affectionately coined The Bottoms. Obsessed with 90's hip-hop culture, the trio hide behind the stylish and musical nuisances of a past time, instead of facing their 21st century environment. A film that initially felt like it could be another "Boyz N the Hood" or "Menace II Society," I thought I had seen some version if this story before. It turns out, I was dead wrong.

Instead of a typical coming-of-age tale, "Dope" is like a modern day Black "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986), or almost any other John Hughes film. Average American teen nerd who, in an ambitious act of self-exoneration, becomes cool, and/or has a sexual encounter with a girl seemingly out of his league. "Dope" is somewhat like that. Also, Malcolm breaks the fourth wall, speaking to the audience, and his constant self-analysis is much like Ferris’.

Though he’s known for his “grown up” films like "The Wood" (1999) and "Brown Sugar" (2002), director Famuyiwa really captures the essence of coming-of-age in Obama’s America.  He encapsulates John Hughes nostalgia, and flips it on its head to incorporate the vitality of John Singleton’s films. In doing so, Famuyiwa gives a voice to today’s young black male, while removing the "hood-homeboy" element that we’ve often seen in the past.

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Image: 'Dope' Film/Rachel Morrison

ABFF 2015: Taraji P. Henson Gets Candid on Fear, Having a Baby in College, Hollywood Struggles, Career Goals, Oscar, 'Empire' + More

Taraji P. Henson has been well known and loved in the Black community since her portrayal of Yvette, in John Singleton’s "Baby Boy" (2001). However, it was the unprecedented success of Fox’s hip-drama "Empire" that made her a household name around the world. This past weekend, at the 19th Annual American Black Film Festival. ABFF’s 2015 Ambassador Taraji P. Henson sat down with Gayle King to talk about her long running career, dating, raising her son and what she wants most of all.  Here are some of the highlights, and Shadow and Act attended.

Here are some highlights from the conversation:

On going From Electrical Engineering to Acting

- What had happened was I auditioned for the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in the tenth grade, and I didn’t get accepted.  My best friend did, isn’t that horrible? I took it to heart. I thought that meant I could not act, so I stopped acting. When it was time to go to college I knew I had to go to school, so I just said electrical engineering because it sounded like I could make a lot of money.  But, I was terrible at math. Acting was still in me, but I was just afraid.

On Fear

- When I was at A&T I had to pass the fine arts building to get to my English Class. One day, I walked passed and they had an audition for a play and I was like 'I’m gonna do it.' And I got my monologue, and I remember standing on that stage and the only thing I kept hearing in my head was ‘No’. I was nervous and my hands were shaking, it was horrible. And they said, we’ll put up on the bulletin board the next day who gets the call back. I was so riddled with fear that I never went back to see if I got the call back.

On Growing Up

- I grew up in the hood and I wasn’t the coolest. I was an artist. I was a little quirky and to the left. I dressed a little crazy. But you know, I would set trends I would do kooky things like wear clips in the front of my hair and next thing you know, Peaches and them got clips in the front of their hair.

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Image: Chuck Hodes/Fox

Review: Despite Its Cheesiness, 'Jurassic World' Is a Visual Thrill

To be completely transparent, I will go ahead and say that I've never seen the films from the original "Jurassic Park" saga. I was a toddler when the first film was released, and I never had any real desire to go back and watch them. With that being said, I completely understand the hoopla surrounding this latest installment of the Jurassic narrative. Originally the forth film was slated for release in 2005, but the project was pushed back for a decade. The delay may have been a good thing, because "Jurassic World" really soars with Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard helming it.

Set in the lush tropics of the fictional Isla Nubla, off the coast of Costa Rica, "Jurassic World" boasts both thrilling attractions and safe family fun. The theme park’s directors have learned from Jurassic Park’s disaster, and this time around they are prepared if anything goes awry. Still, the theme park’s CEO is dissatisfied, as he realizes that twenty-first century citizens are not easily entertained. Just as quickly as technology is introduced, it becomes obsolete. Dinosaurs themselves are no longer the jaw-dropping attractions that they’d been in the past. In an attempt to boost sales and attendance, the CEO and park sponsors begin seeking bigger and better thrills.

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Image: Universal Studios

Review: 'Shake the Dust' is a Beautifully Shot Film That Leaves It’s Audience Wanting

It’s strange to think that there was a time, not too long ago, when hip-hop wasn’t considered “real” music. The rhythms and beats are now so ingrained in our culture, that music would be severely lacking without it. Hip-hop has stretched far beyond the confines of the United States seeping into every corner of the globe. The stories told through the music inspire those whose lives are far more devastating than we could ever imagine. The songs we blast through our open windows, and the movements that have inspired us for the last several decades, are the same ones they gravitate towards.  Hip-hop has connected us all.

Directed by journalist turned filmmaker Adam Sjöberg, and executive produced by hip-hop icon Nasir ‘Nas’ Jones, "Shake the Dust" paints an inspiring portrait of b-boys and b-girls from Uganda, Colombia, Cambodia and Yemen. Their environments are bleak. Many of them were orphaned at a young age, and turned to drugs or a life of crime. And yet, for all of them, it was the music that brought them back from the brink. They have found happiness and satisfaction in break dancing.  In Cambodia, mega talented B-Boy- Suicide spins on his head continuously as a crowd gathers around him. His name, he says, was given to him because of his willingness to go to the extreme to perfect his techniques.  He has no fear, because as he states, “What’s left to fear?”

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Image: Shake The Dust Film

French Director Robin Campillo Talks ‘Eastern Boys,’ Family and the Immigration Climate in France

How do we define family? Traditionally, we gravitate toward people who are related to us by blood. And yet, as we branch out into the world, we may find kindred spirits in others that we encounter on our life’s journey. The ties that bind us together are often strongest when we have to work to maintain them. As we grow and change as individuals, our relationships with other people regularly take on different forms, influencing who we were, who we are, and who we’ve yet to become.

Moroccan-born director Robin Campillo’s latest film, Eastern Boys, explores the meaning of family while commenting on the plight of immigration in modern day France. Despite a language barrier and a gap in socioeconomic status, older Frenchman Daniel (Olivier Rabourdin) and his younger Chechen lover, Marek (Kirill Emelyanov), form a friendship born out of loneliness, fear and excitement. Though it might be considered an unorthodox relationship by some, the duo combats their own issues along with outside forces that try to tear them apart. Eastern Boys is a stunning film about love, acceptance and the people we choose to be a part of our family circle.

Continue reading at GALO Magazine.

Image: Kirill Emelyanov and Olivier Rabourdin star in “Eastern Boys.” Photo Credit: First Run Features.