Reel Sistas

2012 Oscar Nominees

2012-01-26T23:50:00.002-05:00

The 84th Annual Academy Award nominees were announced on Tuesday. Check out my thoughts as well as those of my cohosts on a special edition of Cinema in Noir

Listen to internet radio with KimberlyRenee on Blog Talk Radio

My 5 New Year Movie Resolutions

2012-01-08T20:00:00.009-05:00

Happy New Year! It's only been a week, but 2012 is shaping up to be an AWESOME year already. As usual, the new year marks a time of reflection and resolutions. Today, on my radio show Cinema in Noir, my co-hosts and I discussed some of our movie resolutions for 2012. Here are a few of mine (I hope Hollywood is reading).

1. Let's leave the numerous prequels, sequels, remakes in 2011. I don't want or need to see Birth of a Nation (2012), Bad Boys 7, or Madea: The Teenage Years.

2. Along those same lines, lets stop the desecration of classic TV shows like 21 Jump Street and The Three Stooges (two of the worst trailers I've seen in a long time). I swear if they try to make a film version of Good Times or What's Happening, I'm gonna scream.

3. This year, lets try to have more people of color in leading roles than animals. Last year dolphin amputees, revolting apes, and warring horses all got leading roles in major studio films. Yet, talented women like Lucy Liu, Sharon Leal, Anika Noni Rose, and Michelle Rodriguez got little to no love. Dear Hollywood, people of color have interesting lives too.

4. This year, let's see more leading women. Last year we saw Zoe Saldana and Mara Rooney playing strong, kick-ass women in Colombiana and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, respectively. In 2012, I hope for this trend to continue. With the upcoming films Haywire and Paula Patton in Mission Impossible 4, it looks like it might. But wouldn't it be great to see Rosario Dawson, Gabrielle Union, or Regina King in a big budget action flick?

5. Lastly, I really hope the amazing black indie film movement that has been going on continues. I loved Nia Long's performance in 2011's Mooz-lum and Ava DuVernay's I Will Follow was one of my favorites of 2011. In 2012, I look forward to DuVernay's next film Middle of Nowhere and Matthew Cherry's The Last Fall.

Check out the trailer for The Last Fall:

What are your 2012 movie resolutions?

Why Viola Davis Acts

2011-10-20T09:31:00.004-04:00

One of my favorites, Viola Davis was recently honored at the Elle Magazine Women in Hollywood celebration. In her poignant speech she talks about why she acts. It's a must see. Check it out.

This speech makes me love Viola even more. She is a force. And I am SO glad that Hollywood is giving her a little bit of the recognition she deserves.

Casting "Steel Magnolias"

2011-10-14T00:47:00.005-04:00

It was reported this week that “Steel Magnolia” is the latest film getting the remake treatment. It was announced that Lifetime will be producing an all-black version of the 1989 classic that starred a young Julia Roberts.

As reported by Deadline.com, director Kenny Leon has signed on to direct the movie.
I must admit, I am a little over all the remakes. But this is one that really caught my attention. I loved the original film. And I think that Lifetime has really stepped up its game in the movie department. I am very interested in seeing how the made for TV version of Steel Magnolias will be cast. So in the spirit of southern hospitality, I have decided to help the folks at Lifetime out by giving them some of my suggestions. So I hope you’re listening Lifetime.

M’Lynn Eatenton : Sally Field’s unforgettable portrayal of M’Lynn, the heart of the group will be hard to top. The actress who gets the role needs to possess the matriarchal strength to anchor that cast, but also a flair of southern charm. I’m sure that many will automatically go to Angela Basset for the role, but I believe that Lynn Whitfied is the way to go. In my opinion, the Louisiana native is one of the most underrated actresses in Hollywood. I believe this role could be a great opportunity for Whitfield to play opposite the snobby socialite that she does so well.

Shelby Eatenton Latcherie: Julia Roberts, in one of her early movie roles, stole our hearts as Shelby. Roberts was even nominated for her first Oscar for her portrayal. So needless to say, the actress who wins this role has some pretty big shoes to fill. I know that Jurnee Smollet would be amazing as Shelby. She embodies the tough as nails spirit of Shelby but also the endearing vulnerability that made us
fall in love with the character.

Truvy Jones: The always over the top Dolly Parton played Truvy, the owner of the hair salon that serves as a gathering place for the women. My first and only choice is Loretta Devine. No explanation necessary.

Annelle Dupuy Desoto: Casting the role of Annelle was the most difficult for me. Darryl Hannah shined as the plain Jane who blossomed during her journey. The actress who takes on the role has to be a chameleon. So after much thought, I think that Joy Bryant is my Annelle.

Ouiser Boudreaux: I think Viola Davis would be stellar as the caustic, seemingly bitter, but lovabale and endearing widow Ouiser. The role was originated by the incomparable Shirley MacLaine. I would love to see Davis deliver some of the hilarious one liners courtesy of Ouiser. In addition to playing the role to perfection, I also think Davis would make an excellent foil for the actress I think should play Clairee.
Clairee Belcher: Phylicia Rashad is my first choice, hands down. Like Olympia Dukakis who originated the role in the film, Rashard has a vibrant personality that shines on camera. She also has worked with director Kenny Leon before, when he directed her in the television adaptation of A Raisin In The Sun.

Below is the trailer from the original 1989 movie. Check it out:

"Click"

2011-10-12T23:15:00.001-04:00

Hello all! I wanted to share another short film that I really enjoyed. It's called "Click." The film is by Therese Cator (http://theresecator.com/click/). It's a poignant meditation on love and loss. You should check it out.

Monika's Day

2011-10-03T23:15:00.002-04:00

Check out "Monika's Day" a short film written and produced by filmmaker Onika Day. It's really funny.

Film Friday!

2011-09-09T16:51:00.004-04:00

It's Film Friday! These are the movies that I am excited about this week.

Laugh At My Pain

This is the theatrical version of funnyman Kevin Hart's 2011 comedy tour. Filmed at LA's Nokia Theatre, in addition to the comedy, the film features a bhind the scenes documentary that shows Kevin as he returns to him hometown of Philadelphia. It also includes a short film of sorts that features Taraji P. Henson as a bankteller. This is a must see for any Kevin Hart fans out there. The film is directed by Leslie Small.

The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975
This film chronicles the black power moviement in America. Swedish journalists captured the spirit of the movement by interviewing the most polarizing figures and leaders of the time. Now some 30 years later, director Goran Olsson brings the footage to life and on to the big screen for the first time.

ContagionContagion tells the story of a woman who returns to the US after a business trip with symptons and signs of fatigue and jet lag. A few days later, she is dead and hundreds of other people are sick and dying. The world scrambles to find out how to contain the pandemic. This film stars Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburn and Sanaa Lathan.

I am excited about each of these films. What do you plan to see this weekend?

Five Facts About Amanda Randolph

2011-09-02T16:24:00.007-04:00

1. Amanda Randolph was born September 2, 1896 in Louisville Kentucky. Happy Birthday Ms. Randolph!

2. Ms. Randolph started her film career in 1936 in the film Black Network.

3. Ms. Randolph was the first African American woman to star in a regularly scheduled network sitcom. In 1948 she starred in the shortlived series, The Laytons.

4. In addition to her work in the entertainment business, Ms. Randolph was a restauranteur. She ran "The Clam House" in NY with her husband in the 1930s and in 1955 opened "Mama's Place" in Los Angeles.

5. Ms. Randolph died on August 24, 1967 of a stroke. She is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park beside her sister Lilliane.

I Will Follow: Live Commentary

2011-09-02T01:48:00.005-04:00

In the previous post, I mentioned the live commentary of the the film I Will Follow. Below are the videos. Enjoy.

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

On DVD: I Will Follow

2011-09-02T00:51:00.017-04:00

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of films featuring African-American women being released this weekend. In fact, I could not find one that has a reel sista in a leading or supportive role. So this week, I decided to feature a film that have been recently released on DVD.

I Will Follow was released on DVD on August 23. The film was directed by Ava DuVernay and stars Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Beverly Todd, Mechole White, Omari Hardwick and Dijon Talon. The story centers around Maye, a woman mourning the loss of her beloved aunt, Amanda (Todd).

The film chronicles a day in Maye's life as she packs and moves out of the house she shared with Aunt Amanda. Throughout the day, Maye encounters a series of guest who each impact her life.
I Will Follow is the first film released via AFFRM, the African-American Film Festival Releasing Movement, which was founded by Ava DuVernay.

I absolutely adore this film. I actually saw it four times in the theatres when it was released back in March. What makes the film so great is it's simplicity. There are no bells and whistles in I Will Follow. It is a small, well written, extraordinarily acted film about an ordinary woman who just happens to be African-American. This is the type of film that I long for and crave to see more of. The characters are rich and layered. Everyone is perfectly cast as well. It's hard to believe that this is Salli Richard-Whitfield first leading role. She is superb.

The only flaw with the DVD is that there is no commentary or extras. But no fear. Ava DuVernay and cast recently recorded a live DVD commentary (which I will upload in a separate post). So during this long weekend, I enthusiastically suggest that you rent or buy I Will Follow.

Happy Birthday Isabel Sanford!

2011-08-29T14:35:00.002-04:00

Today would have been Isabel Sanford’s 94th birthday. So in honor of that, I wanted to shine a spotlight on one of the most recognizable women in television history.

Born in 1917 in New York City to James Sanford and Josephine Perry, Isabel was a fighter at birth. She once stated:

I was the only child born to Josephine Perry that survived. Mama had six other children before me and all had passed very quickly and very young, all succumbing to a combination of illness and disease and the lack of strength to fight off both. As for me, I was both strong and healthy, and, if you believed the rumors, I wasn't too bright.

.
Isabel always had a since of humor.

After years of working in theatre, Isabel made her film debut in “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” In the film she played the role of Tillie Binks.

Her most recognizable role is that of Louise “Weezy” Jefferson. Isabel played the character on four different television series. The role originated on “All in the Family” in 1971. However, the role was made famous on the hit show “The Jefferson’s” where Isabel starred alongside Sherman Hemsley, Marla Gibbs, and Roxie Roker. She also did guest appearances on “Roseanne” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”

In 1981, Isabel became the first African American woman to win an Emmy award for “Best Lead Actress in a Comedy.” See her acceptance speech below:

Isabel's speech is a true indication of just how funny she was both on and off camera.

2004 was shaping up to be a big year for Isabel. That year, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to Television history.

Isabel made her last on-screen television appearance at the TV Land Awards in 2004. She and her costar Sherman Hemsley accepted the award for Favorite Cantankerous Couple. Also known for her distinctive voice, Isabel voiced a character on The Simpsons.

On July 9, 2004, Isabel died in Los Angeles. She once said "I wasn't young, I wasn't pretty and I was a black woman looking for success in a business where those attributes were certainly not in demand in the 1960's." Isabel Sanford found the success that she desired and made history in the process. Her legacy will live on forever. Rest in Peace, Ms. Sanford.

Four Things You Should Know Before Seeing Colombiana

2011-08-29T12:13:00.000-04:00

1. Surprise! There are no surprises. This is your typical revenge action thriller that we have all seen before. The story doesn’t stray far from the formula that director Olivier Megaton has shown us before, action first, everything else second.

2. Don’t look too hard for answers. There are a few holes that the story that the film leaves unfilled. For example, “why were her parents killed?” I get that the father did something bad to someone bad. But no details are given.

3. Be prepared to suspend most, if not all belief. I know that most action films are implausible. I mean, that’s the point right? But a few times during the film I was like ‘Seriously’? One scene in particular features a young Cataleya, played by Amandla Stenberg and her uncle, Emilio played by Cliff Curtis. In an effort to show the girl the importance of an education, Uncle Emilio starts shooting outside of the school. Wait…what? My thoughts exactly.

4. Zoe Saldana is a force. She has stated in interviews that the trained for months so that she could perform her own stunts. And believe me, it paid off. Zoe’s physicality is nothing short of amazing. Some of the best moments of the film feature Zoe maneuvering through the shadows either hunting her prey or eluding those who prey upon her. And despite a few flaws with the story, Zoe’s performance is dead on. She plays the emotion when appropriate but is convincing as the vengeful assassin that her Cataleya has trained to be. Colombiana provides Zoe with the perfect character to take her to the next level in Hollywood and join in the limited legacy of female action heroes of color.

Film Friday!

2011-08-26T02:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday!! This weekend several new films open up. Two of the films feature reel sistas in leading or supporting roles.

Colombiana

Zoe Saldana stars as a woman set on revenge after witnessing the murder of her parents as a child. Zoe has been on a major promotions campaign for this film. She is currently on the cover of no less than three magazines and has made appearances on all the late night shows.

Colombiana is sure to be in the top three at the end of the weekend.

Our Idiot Brother

Rashida Jones takes a supporting role in the film that stars Paul Rudd as the "idiot brother" who having recently been released from prison, wrecks havoc on the lives of his three sisters.

I have to say, the trailers for this look ridiculous. But I think it's going to be one of those, "so bad, it's good" films. Regardless, I love Paul Rudd and Rashida, so I will be checking it out.

Guess who is back???

2011-08-19T17:07:00.000-04:00

It's me! I've been quiet on this blog for too long. Well I'm back. I will be posting on here really soon. But in the meantime, check me out on these sites:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/reelsistas
Tumblr: www.reelsistas.tumblr.com

You can also search "Reel Sistas" on Facebook and Google + to connect.

or listen to me on Cinema in Noir on Blogtalkradio on Sundays at 6 PM at www.blogtalkradio.com/cinemainnoir

Whew! I'm all over the place, right? Let's chat.

2009-05-15T22:19:00.000-04:00

A new trailer for Disney's 'The Princess and The Frog' recently hit the web. Check it out:

Here are some more pics from the film:

This is going to be an INSTANT CLASSIC!!! I can't wait! Shout out to Reel sista Anika Noni Rose who is the voice of Princess Tiana.

The Cast of 'Precious' hits Cannes

2009-05-15T21:01:00.000-04:00

The cast of the upcoming Lee Daniels film 'Precious' hit up the Cannes Film Festival this week. The film, is based on the novel Push by Sapphire. Reel Sistas Paula Patton, newcomer Gabourey Sidibe and Mariah Carey were on hand.

The film is being produced by Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry. Check out the trailer below:

I personally LOVED the book and can not wait to see the film adaptation. It is set for a November release.

Sanaa Lathan in 'Wonderful World'

2009-04-28T21:34:00.000-04:00

Reel sista, Sanaa Lathan debuted her new film 'Wonderful World' this week at the Tribeca Film Festival. In the film, which also stars Matthew Broderick, Sanaa plays a Senegalese woman named Khadi who moves in with Broderick after her brother (Broderick's roommate, played by Michael K. Williams) falls ill.

Check out the trailer:

Wonderful world
Uploaded by coolvibesinfo

No nationwide release date has been set, but Reel Sistas will keep you updated as soon as we find out.

Keep Shining!

Beyonce is #1

2009-04-27T19:29:00.000-04:00

Reel sista Beyonce Knowles' new film 'Obsessed' took the #1 spot at the box office this weekend. Also, the film is the biggest end of April open in Screen Gems history.

I saw the film and thought it was pretty good. Beyonce held her own in her first non-singing role. Check out Beyonce on CBS as she discussed the head butting scene:

Keep shining Bey!!!

Reel Sista Links

2009-04-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday Sistas!!

Here are some links to some great Reel Sista info:

Sharon Leal shares her beauty gems with Beauty Blitz: http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.net/2009/04/vix-fix-guest-editor-sharon-leal-shares.html

Vivica A. Fox is a COUGAR:
http://www.thecelebritycafe.com/features/26996.html

A Keyshia Cole Biopic?:
http://brownsista.com/keyshia-cole-working-on-new-albumbiopic/#more-12821

Keep Shining!

Baby, Baby, Baby

2009-04-23T20:31:00.000-04:00

Reel sista and superstar singer Jill Scott is now a mommy. On April 20, 2009, Jill and her fiancee, drummer Lil John Roberts, became the parents of a baby boy according to People Magazine.

Jett Hamilton Roberts was born at 4:20 p.m. and weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

Jill is currently working on the HBO series "No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency," based on the popular novels by Alexander McCall Smith.

Also, rumors are flying that reel sista and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson is expecting her first child. Jennifer is engaged to David Ortunga aka Punk from 'I Love NY.' Neither Hudson, nor her reps have confirmed. Reel Sistas will keep you posted!

Keep shining!

2009-04-23T20:24:00.001-04:00

Hello all! Follow me on Twitter for instant Reel Sista updates at www.twitter.com/reelsistas.

Keep shining!

Reel Sista Beyonce chats it up with Letterman

2009-04-23T10:58:00.001-04:00

Beyonce Letterman Int 4-22
Video sent by yardie4lifever2

Last night reel sista Beyonce Knowles sat down with late night host David Letterman. She discussed her upcoming tour, her sister Solange's Twittering and her new movie 'Obsession' that hits theatres tomorrow. Check it out!

Coming Soon...

2009-04-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter everyone!

In addition to the April showers, this month brings two new films featuring today's up and coming Reel Sistas.

On April 17, American Violet hits theatres nationwide. The film follows the course of Dee Roberts, a 20-something single sista who is stuggling to make ends meet in a small Texas town. When Dee is arrested in a drug sweep, she insists on her innocence and refuses a plea bargain that would allow her to avoid jail time.. Instead Dee stands up against a corrupt law enforcement and judicial system.

Dee is played by newcomer Nicole Beharie. Also featured is veteran reel sista Alfre Woodard. Check out the trailer:

I have heard nothing but rave reviews for Nicole Beharie and I am sure that we will be seeing big things from her in the future.

On April 24, reel sista Beyonce Knowles hits the big screen by starring and producing inObsessed. In the thriller, Knowles plays the wife of Idris Elba, a corporate executive whose new temp falls hard for him, wreacking havoc on his life and the lives of his family. Check out the trailer:
And although Ms. Knowles is not exactly "up and coming," this fatal attraction-esque film marks the first time Knowles DOES NOT play a singer or sing in the film. So, I'm looking forward to it (and Idris Elba).

Keep Shining!

Cover Girls

2009-04-09T11:41:00.000-04:00

Best Supporting Actress Academy Award nominees Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson grace the cover of the May 2009 Ebony Magazine.

The issue also includes the magazine's annual "Most Influential Black Amaericans" list. The magazine hits newstands on April 14.

A Very Bazaar Berry

2009-04-08T23:02:00.000-04:00

Reel Sista Halle Berry is on the May 2009 issue of Harper's Bazaar Magazine:

In the magazine, Berry talks about being a mother and her post-baby body:

"Having a baby takes so much from you. It’s the most glorious thing you’ll ever do, but the aftermath is not so glorious! So now I’m having to exercise, eat a little bit differently, take a lot more vitamins. "

"I used to work a lot because I had nothing better to do. What I’ve learned, especially by having a baby, is that you can’t bring that stuff home anymore. For example, I was alone filming ‘Monster’s Ball.’ I was married to someone else, and he wasn’t really around much. Thank God that was only a 20-day shoot."

Berry's ever changing look is interesting...but she is a true reel sista, regardless. Gotta love her. Berry is currently filming the psychological thriller "Frankie and Alice"