Green Trip (short film)
Logline:
A young professional struggles to find weed during a stressful return to his hometown until he learns that his family’s acceptance is the ultimate high.
Directed by:
Written by:
James Peoples and Al Washington
Logline:
A young professional struggles to find weed during a stressful return to his hometown until he learns that his family’s acceptance is the ultimate high.
Starring:
Jamel King, Arlene Victoria Conrad, Paul L. Davis, Cammie Middleton, Michael J. Craven, Charlz Williams, and featuring Ja’Quan Cole.
See the full cast & crew on IMDB
Film Festivals
Awards
Trailers
Classic Film: The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music, directed by Robert Wise, and written by Ernest Lehman, is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. The film, released in 1965, follows the story of Maria (Julie Andrews), a spirited young woman who becomes the governess for the von Trapp family and helps them find joy and purpose in their lives through the power of music.
The Sound of Music, directed by Robert Wise, and written by Ernest Lehman, is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. The film, released in 1965, follows the story of Maria (Julie Andrews), a spirited young woman who becomes the governess for the von Trapp family and helps them find joy and purpose in their lives through the power of music.
The film's visuals are stunning, with Wise's direction capturing the beauty and majesty of the Austrian Alps. The musical sequences are also noteworthy, with memorable songs such as "Do-Re-Mi" and "My Favorite Things" becoming iconic pieces of popular culture.
The performances in The Sound of Music are equally impressive, with Julie Andrews delivering a standout performance as Maria. Her voice is simply stunning, and her portrayal of the character captures the spirit and energy of the film perfectly. Christopher Plummer is also excellent as Captain von Trapp, bringing a depth and complexity to his role that makes him a compelling and sympathetic character.
What sets The Sound of Music apart from other musicals is its exploration of themes such as family, love, and the power of music to heal and inspire. The film's message of hope and resilience is timeless, and it remains just as relevant today as it did when it was first released.
Overall, The Sound of Music is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. It's a movie that will lift your spirits, bring a smile to your face, and leave you humming its unforgettable tunes long after the credits roll. The film was originally released on March 2, 1965.
Community Over Everything...
A rocket takes off and leaves its boosters behind as it flies into outer space. It's a necessary part of the process for the ship to get where it's going and for the astronauts to finish their mission. There are a lot of people and materials that make the whole event possible. Some of those people even continue to monitor the ship's progress. Perhaps, out of admiration or desire, but also because, eventually, that ship has to return.
A rocket takes off and leaves its boosters behind as it flies into outer space. It's a necessary part of the process for the ship to get where it's going and for the astronauts to finish their mission. There are a lot of people and materials that make the whole event possible. Some of those people even continue to monitor the ship's progress. Perhaps, out of admiration or desire, but also because, eventually, that ship has to return.
As Andre 3000 says, "Spaceships don't come equipped with rearview mirrors, they dip as fast as they can." It's easy to let your ego get the best of you in this business, in any business, to be honest, but you can't treat people like they're disposable. Every tv show, movie, and album has multiple names in the credits that helped make that project a reality. Likewise, every company has shareholders, employees, and customers that help make it profitable. We don't exist in a vacuum. Everyone plays their part.
That being said, make sure you take care of yourself, your team, and your community. I pity the fool that gets everything they've ever wanted but burned everyone that helped them get it...
Keep your heart! Keep your heart!
- J.O.
The Collaborators
What's on your radar?
These are the joints that have our attention this month.
Just Like Movies
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Just Like Music
Did we miss anything? Put us on to something that we need to check out: mcnxtv@mrjoliphant.com!
Coming Soon…
The Minority Connection
〰️
The Minority Connection 〰️
Classic Film: The Five Heartbeats
The Five Heartbeats, directed by Robert Townsend and released in 1991, is a soulful and moving musical drama that tells the story of a fictional R&B vocal group and their rise to fame in the 1960s and 1970s.
The Five Heartbeats, directed by Robert Townsend and released in 1991, is a soulful and moving musical drama that tells the story of a fictional R&B vocal group and their rise to fame in the 1960s and 1970s.
The film's direction is expertly handled, with Townsend's skillful use of music and storytelling creating a sense of emotional depth and authenticity. The film's musical performances are also noteworthy, with memorable songs such as "A Heart is a House for Love" and "Nights Like This" adding to the film's emotional impact.
The performances in The Five Heartbeats are equally impressive, with Robert Townsend delivering a standout performance as the charismatic and talented lead singer of the group, Eddie Kane. The other members of the group are also memorable, with each bringing their own unique personality and skillset to the ensemble.
What sets The Five Heartbeats apart from other musical dramas is its exploration of themes such as friendship, loyalty, and the cost of success. The film's commentary on the music industry and the struggles faced by African American artists in the 1960s and 1970s is both timely and thought-provoking, and it adds a layer of depth and meaning to the story.
Overall, The Five Heartbeats is a deeply moving and soulful film that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. It's a movie that will leave viewers with a greater appreciation for the power of music and the importance of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity. The film was written by Robert Townsend and Keenen Ivory Wayans, and was originally released on March 29, 1991.
Artist Spotlight: Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer known for her unique voice and commanding presence. She has had a prolific career in the entertainment industry spanning over three decades, and her contributions to music, film, and television have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the industry. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career, including her filmography and discography.
Queen Latifah is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer known for her unique voice and commanding presence. She has had a prolific career in the entertainment industry spanning over three decades, and her contributions to music, film, and television have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the industry. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career, including her filmography and discography.
Early Career:
Queen Latifah, whose real name is Dana Elaine Owens, was born on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey. She began her career as a rapper in the late 1980s, releasing her debut album "All Hail the Queen" in 1989. The album was a commercial success and included the hit singles "Ladies First" and "U.N.I.T.Y."
Breakthrough Roles:
Queen Latifah's breakthrough role as an actress came in 1991 when she appeared in the film "Jungle Fever." She went on to star in a number of other popular films, including "Set It Off," "Chicago," and "Hairspray." In recent years, she has also made a name for herself as a producer, with credits on hit television shows like "The Queen Latifah Show" and "Living Single."
Discography:
"All Hail the Queen" (1989)
"Nature of a Sista" (1991)
"Black Reign" (1993)
"Order in the Court" (1998)
"The Dana Owens Album" (2004)
"Trav'lin' Light" (2007)
"Persona" (2009)
Filmography:
Over the course of her career, Queen Latifah has appeared in a number of popular films and television shows. Some of her most notable roles include:
"Jungle Fever" (1991)
"Set It Off" (1996)
"Chicago" (2002)
“Brown Sugar” (2002)
"Bringing Down the House" (2003)
"Hairspray" (2007)
"Star" (2016-2019)
Notable Accomplishments:
Queen Latifah has been recognized for her contributions to the entertainment industry with numerous awards and honors over the years. She has won a Grammy Award, an Emmy Award, and three Screen Actors Guild Awards. In 2021, she was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
Legacy:
Queen Latifah's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. Her powerful performances and commanding presence on screen have helped to establish her as one of the most respected and influential figures in Hollywood. Her work has helped to bring diverse and underrepresented stories to the forefront of the industry, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of actors and filmmakers.
In conclusion, Queen Latifah's career as a rapper, singer, actress, and producer is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft. From her early beginnings as a rapper to her iconic performances in some of the most popular films and television shows of our time, she has established herself as a true master of her art. Her discography showcases her versatility as a musician, and her impact on the film and television industry has helped to redefine the representation of diverse voices in entertainment.
Classic Film: V for Vendetta
"V for Vendetta," directed by James McTeigue and released in 2005, is a thrilling and thought-provoking dystopian film that combines political intrigue, social commentary, and explosive action. Based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, the film presents a powerful and visually stunning portrayal of a totalitarian society and the individual's struggle for freedom.
"V for Vendetta," directed by James McTeigue and released in 2005, is a thrilling and thought-provoking dystopian film that combines political intrigue, social commentary, and explosive action. Based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, the film presents a powerful and visually stunning portrayal of a totalitarian society and the individual's struggle for freedom.
McTeigue's direction in "V for Vendetta" is skillful and visually striking, capturing the dark and oppressive atmosphere of the dystopian world. The film's use of vivid imagery, impressive set designs, and stunning cinematography creates a visually immersive experience that adds to the film's overall impact. McTeigue effectively balances the film's intense action sequences with moments of introspection and powerful dialogue.
The performances in "V for Vendetta" are exceptional, with Hugo Weaving delivering a mesmerizing performance as the enigmatic and masked character known as "V." Weaving's voice and physicality bring depth and complexity to the character, making V both charismatic and haunting. Natalie Portman shines as Evey, a young woman swept up in V's quest for justice, bringing vulnerability and strength to her role.
What sets "V for Vendetta" apart from other dystopian films is its exploration of themes such as authoritarianism, personal freedom, and the power of ideas. The film is a powerful allegory for the potential dangers of a society driven by fear and manipulation. It examines the importance of individual identity and the potential for collective resistance in the face of oppression.
The screenplay, written by the Wachowski siblings (Lana and Lilly), showcases their ability to weave intricate narratives and thought-provoking themes into an engaging story. Their adaptation successfully captures the essence of the original graphic novel, maintaining its powerful message while adapting it for the medium of film.
"V for Vendetta" is a visually stunning and politically charged film that resonates with audiences long after the credits roll. Released on March 17, 2006, it remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece of cinema that encourages viewers to question authority, challenge societal norms, and recognize the importance of personal agency in the pursuit of freedom.
With its captivating performances, immersive visuals, and timely themes, "V for Vendetta" is a must-watch film that will ignite discussions about personal liberty, social responsibility, and the enduring power of ideas.
Artist Spotlight: Lance Reddick
Lance Reddick is an American actor known for his commanding presence and versatility on screen. With a career spanning over two decades, Reddick has become a prominent figure in film and television. In this post, we will take a closer look at his career and the impact he has had on the industry.
Lance Reddick is an American actor known for his commanding presence and versatility on screen. With a career spanning over two decades, Reddick has become a prominent figure in film and television. In this post, we will take a closer look at his career and the impact he has had on the industry.
Early Career:
Reddick was born on December 31, 1962, in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he studied composition and classical piano. He later moved to Boston to pursue a career in acting and landed his first major role in the play "Six Degrees of Separation."
Breakthrough Roles:
Reddick's breakthrough role came in 2002 when he was cast as Cedric Daniels in the critically acclaimed HBO series "The Wire." He went on to star in a number of other popular television shows, including "Lost," "Fringe," and "Bosch." His film credits include "John Wick," "White House Down," and "The Guest."
Filmography:
Over the course of his career, Reddick has appeared in a number of critically acclaimed films and television shows. Some of his most notable work includes:
"The Wire" (2002-2008)
"Fringe" (2008-2013)
"Lost" (2008-2010)
"John Wick" (2014)
"Bosch" (2014-2021)
"The Guest" (2014)
"American Horror Story: Apocalypse" (2018)
Notable Accomplishments:
Reddick has been recognized for his work in the entertainment industry with several award nominations, including a Screen Actors Guild Award for his performance in "The Wire." He has also received critical acclaim for his work on "Bosch," which has been praised for its nuanced and complex portrayal of law enforcement.
Legacy:
Lance Reddick's career is a testament to his talent and dedication as an actor. He has become known for his ability to bring depth and complexity to his roles, and his performances have left a lasting impact on audiences. His contributions to the world of film and television will be remembered for years to come.
In conclusion, Lance Reddick's career is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. From his early beginnings in theater to his iconic performances in some of the most popular films and television shows of our time, he has established himself as one of the most talented and versatile actors in the industry. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of performers and fans alike.
Oscars 2023 Picks
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
AUSTIN BUTLER - Elvis
COLIN FARRELL - The Banshees of Inisherin
BRENDAN FRASER - The Whale - Winner (My pick)
PAUL MESCAL - Aftersun
BILL NIGHY - Living
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
BRENDAN GLEESON - The Banshees of Inisherin
BRIAN TYREE HENRY - Causeway
JUDD HIRSCH - The Fabelmans
BARRY KEOGHAN - The Banshees of Inisherin
KE HUY QUAN - Everything Everywhere All at Once - Winner (My Pick)
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
CATE BLANCHETT - Tár
ANA DE ARMAS - Blonde
ANDREA RISEBOROUGH - To Leslie
MICHELLE WILLIAMS - The Fabelmans
MICHELLE YEOH - Everything Everywhere All at Once - Winner (My Pick)
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
ANGELA BASSETT - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (My Pick)
HONG CHAU - The Whale
KERRY CONDON - The Banshees of Inisherin
JAMIE LEE CURTIS - Everything Everywhere All at Once - Winner
STEPHANIE HSU - Everything Everywhere All at Once
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
GUILLERMO DEL TORO'S PINOCCHIO - Guillermo del Toro, Mark Gustafson, Gary Ungar and Alex Bulkley - Winner (My Pick)
MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON - Dean Fleischer Camp, Elisabeth Holm, Andrew Goldman, Caroline Kaplan and Paul Mezey
PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH - Joel Crawford and Mark Swift
THE SEA BEAST - Chris Williams and Jed Schlanger
TURNING RED - Domee Shi and Lindsey Collins
CINEMATOGRAPHY
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT - James Friend - Winner
BARDO, FALSE CHRONICLE OF A HANDFUL OF TRUTHS - Darius Khondji (My Pick)
ELVIS - Mandy Walker
EMPIRE OF LIGHT - Roger Deakins
TÁR - Florian Hoffmeister
DIRECTING
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN - Martin McDonagh
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE - Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert - Winner (My Pick)
THE FABELMANS - Steven Spielberg
TÁR - Todd Field
TRIANGLE OF SADNESS - Ruben Östlund
FILM EDITING
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN - Mikkel E.G. Nielsen
ELVIS - Matt Villa and Jonathan Redmond
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE - Paul Rogers - Winner (My Pick
TÁR - Monika Willi
TOP GUN: MAVERICK - Eddie Hamilton
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT - Volker Bertelmann - Winner
BABYLON - Justin Hurwitz
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN - Carter Burwell
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE - Son Lux
THE FABELMANS - John Williams
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
APPLAUSE from Tell It like a Woman; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
HOLD MY HAND from Top Gun: Maverick; Music and Lyric by Lady Gaga and BloodPop
LIFT ME UP from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever; Music by Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler and Ludwig Goransson; Lyric by Tems and Ryan Coogler
NAATU NAATU from RRR; Music by M.M. Keeravaani; Lyric by Chandrabose - Winner (My Pick)
THIS IS A LIFE from Everything Everywhere All at Once; Music by Ryan Lott, David Byrne and Mitski; Lyric by Ryan Lott and David Byrne
BEST PICTURE
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT - Malte Grunert, Producer
AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER - James Cameron and Jon Landau, Producers
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN - Graham Broadbent, Pete Czernin and Martin McDonagh, Producers
ELVIS - Baz Luhrmann, Catherine Martin, Gail Berman, Patrick McCormick and Schuyler Weiss, Producers
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE - Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert and Jonathan Wang, Producers - Winner (My Pick)
THE FABELMANS - Kristie Macosko Krieger, Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner, Producers
TÁR - Todd Field, Alexandra Milchan and Scott Lambert, Producers
TOP GUN: MAVERICK - Tom Cruise, Christopher McQuarrie, David Ellison and Jerry Bruckheimer, Producers
TRIANGLE OF SADNESS - Erik Hemmendorff and Philippe Bober, Producers
WOMEN TALKING - Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner and Frances McDormand, Producers
WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT - Screenplay - Edward Berger, Lesley Paterson & Ian Stokell
GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY - Written by Rian Johnson
LIVING - Written by Kazuo Ishiguro
TOP GUN: MAVERICK - Screenplay by Ehren Kruger and Eric Warren Singer and Christopher McQuarrie; Story by Peter Craig and Justin Marks
WOMEN TALKING - Screenplay by Sarah Polley - Winner
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN - Written by Martin McDonagh
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE - Written by Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert - Winner (My Pick)
THE FABELMANS - Written by Steven Spielberg & Tony Kushner
TÁR - Written by Todd Field
TRIANGLE OF SADNESS - Written by Ruben Östlund
CLICK HERE FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL THE OSCARS 2023 WINNERS.
Brick by Brick...
There are a lot of cliches about making things or branching out on your own. If we think about it in story terms, the adventure starts when the protagonist takes the first step towards their goal. Art imitates life in that way. Your choice of profession or desire doesn’t matter because the beginning is the beginning, and you always start wherever you are.
There are a lot of cliches about making things or branching out on your own. If we think about it in story terms, the adventure starts when the protagonist takes the first step towards their goal. Art imitates life in that way. Your choice of profession or desire doesn’t matter because the beginning is the beginning, and you always start wherever you are.
However, the answer to the question that follows is usually the determining factor of success or failure, and that question is, Am I willing to “DO” what it takes? A verbal answer isn’t enough. We have to take action.
You know how it is, Rome wasn’t built in a day. So if I build it, come get some, or whatever Kevin Costner said... 😅
- J.O.
The Collaborators
What's on your radar?
These are the joints that have our attention this month.
Just Like Movies
Just Like Tv
Just Like Music
Did we miss anything? Put us on to something that we need to check out: McnxTv@mrjoliphant.com.
Coming Soon…
The Minority Connection
〰️
The Minority Connection 〰️
Classic Film: Get Out
"Get Out," directed by Jordan Peele and released in 2017, is a groundbreaking horror-thriller that masterfully blends social commentary with spine-chilling suspense. Written by Jordan Peele himself, the film follows the story of Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a young African American man who visits the family estate of his white girlfriend, Rose (Allison Williams), only to discover a dark secret lurking beneath the seemingly idyllic surface.
"Get Out," directed by Jordan Peele and released in 2017, is a groundbreaking horror-thriller that masterfully blends social commentary with spine-chilling suspense. Written by Jordan Peele himself, the film follows the story of Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a young African American man who visits the family estate of his white girlfriend, Rose (Allison Williams), only to discover a dark secret lurking beneath the seemingly idyllic surface.
Peele's direction in "Get Out" is nothing short of exceptional. He expertly crafts an atmosphere of tension and unease, gradually building suspense and delivering shocking twists that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The film's pacing is superb, allowing the story to unfold gradually while maintaining a sense of impending dread.
The performances in "Get Out" are outstanding, with Daniel Kaluuya delivering a gripping and nuanced portrayal of Chris. His performance anchors the film, evoking a powerful sense of empathy and vulnerability. The supporting cast is equally remarkable, with standout performances from Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, and Catherine Keener, who bring depth and complexity to their respective roles.
What sets "Get Out" apart from other horror films is its sharp social commentary. Peele uses the horror genre as a vehicle to explore themes of racism, cultural appropriation, and the commodification of black bodies. Through its thought-provoking storytelling, the film offers a scathing critique of societal issues while delivering genuine scares.
The film's cinematography and score contribute to its unsettling atmosphere. The visuals are meticulously crafted, enhancing the film's tension and emphasizing the claustrophobic nature of Chris's experiences. The haunting musical score heightens the sense of unease, effectively amplifying the film's suspenseful moments.
"Get Out" is a powerful and impactful film that challenges conventional genre tropes and demands attention. With its thought-provoking themes, exceptional performances, and skillful direction, it has become a modern horror classic. Released on February 24, 2017, the film's cultural significance and lasting impact continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.