Viben On Films News

"Cleveland Hustles" CNBC Reality Show Produced by LeBron James

2016-08-01T14:18:00.001-07:00

LeBron James is the executive producer of the new reality show “Cleveland Hustles” coming to CNBC. The show will give four Detroit-Shoreway entrepreneurs and businesses the opportunity to prove why their company or idea’s should be invested in. About six other neighborhoods were in consideration for “Cleveland Hustles”, but the Detroit-Shoreway area had been recently chosen.

James will not appear regularly on the show, its not a Lebron James is “here” type of show.

The show’s host, Bonin Bough, explains his role: “What I try to do is inspire everybody. Look, you’re going to start your own business? Great. Here’s a roadmap of how you’re going to get there.”

Contestants, including the people behind Cleveland Bagels and The Proper Pig, compete in a series of business challenges every week with the winner getting a brick-and-mortar location in the Gordon Square Arts District. They’re mentored and judged along the way by four local successful business people, including Greenhouse Tavern chef Jonathon Sawyer.

“Cleveland Hustles” premieres on CNBC Aug. 24 at 10 p.m.

Netflix: Marvel’s Iron Fist – San Diego Comic Con Trailer Release

2016-08-01T14:05:00.004-07:00

The Walking Dead Season 7 Comic-Con Trailer Is No Joke

2016-07-24T17:29:00.001-07:00

NBC's "BlindSpot" Unpacked Some Great Stuff at San Diego Comic Con 2016

2016-07-23T19:11:00.001-07:00

Guess what! The full cast of NBC's BLINDSPOT attended San Diego Comic Con International this weekend. And they unpacked a bag full of goodies for BS fans.

The cast and crew of the NBC drama -- which returns for a second season on Sept. 14 -- did a great job at hosting a panel during the biggest day of the outrageously fun expo at the San Diego Convention Center.

The panel included stars Jaimie Alexander, Sullivan Stapleton, Rob Brown, Ashley Johnson, Audrey Esparza, and the executive producer, Martin Gero.

Of course in perfect order, a preview of the show's second season was screened before everyone took the stage.

Check out the San Diego Comic Con trailer for Season 2 plus brief soundbites with Jaimie Alexander and Sullivan Stapleton below.

Cast of The New Power Rangers Had a Lot to Say at San Diego Comic Con 2016

2016-07-23T18:40:00.001-07:00

The cast of the new "generation" of POWER RANGERS movie - Becky G (Yellow Ranger), Ludi Lin (Black Ranger), Dacre Montgomery (Red Ranger), Naomi Scott (Pink Ranger), and RJ Cyler (Blue Ranger) took time from signing autographs at the San Diego Comic Con this week to talk about their new film.

Check the cast out in the trailer below at San Diego Comic Con.

Luke Cage Cast Members Understand that They Are Making Television History with the Netflix Show

2016-07-23T18:07:00.002-07:00

There is so much chatter around the Viben On Films water cooler this weekend at San Diego Comic Con until its crazy. The noise is all about Netflix dropping Marvel's Luke Cage on Sept. 30. One this is for sure, fans are overjoyed to see another addition to the already popular comic book universe. They are also tickled pink that the Netflix show is based on more than just a superhero. And guess what! The cast is predominantly black! Yep, I said it! Cast members include stars like Mike Colter, Alfre Woodard, Mahershala Ali, and Simone Missick at the helm. Think about it. It's the first time we're seeing a black superhero (and also a female black superhero) as the central focus. Many of the Luke Cage cast were in attendance at Comic-Con in San Diego to discuss the show, and they couldn't help but be excited about how the show has a special place in TV history.

Check out the San Diego Comic Con trailer below.

IMG and SiriusXM to Launch "The Source," All-New Celebrity Show

2016-07-19T08:59:00.003-07:00

IMG and SiriusXM today announced the launch of "The Source, Powered by Life Reimagined," a unique new radio program curated and hosted by stars from every genre. A limited-run series starting July 16, "The Source" will air exclusively on SiriusXM's Stars (channel 109) at Noon ET on Saturday and Sunday. The four-week series will also be available via SiriusXM On Demand on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at www.siriusxm.com.

"The Source" will give listeners an opportunity to connect with celebrities in a new way as they share their insights on everything from fashion, art and entertainment to businesses, politics, and pop culture. The show, presented by Life Reimagined, a platform that helps people navigate transitions and pursue their goals in life, will feature a wide variety of actors, directors, athletes, supermodels, musicians and authors, with Arianna Huffington, Ricky Williams and Donovan McNabb, Ashley Graham, Jerry Springer, Niecy Nash, Carolyn Murphy, Jenna Elfman, Ashley Judd, and Chanel Iman appearing for the pilot month, among others.

"Celebrities are increasingly looking for avenues where they can have direct conversations with their fans, and 'The Source' is purpose-built for that," said Mark Shapiro, Chief Content Officer, WME | IMG. "Listeners are going to hear these influencers in a whole new way, leading conversations on everything from politics to pop culture. We couldn't have a better home for this than SiriusXM, and are excited about the opportunities this offers for individuals and brands looking for new ways to connect with their audiences."

"Bringing new voices to radio has been a hallmark of SiriusXM, and we are excited to work with IMG to bring this eclectic slate of personalities for our listeners," said Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer, SiriusXM. "This new show will draw talent from the fields of music, sports and entertainment and beyond, and give them the opportunity to speak at length and in uncensored fashion about their work, passions, views, and life experiences."

A few highlights:

Ricky Williams jokes that Donovan McNabb played a central role in events that led to one of Williams' failed NFL drug tests:

"So I want to start off with a crazy, a crazy story. It's something I never shared with anyone; I actually just realized it five minutes ago. The man sitting to my right Mr. Donovan McNabb is the reason I retired from football in 2004."

"The Source" is the first show IMG has created with SiriusXM. IMG's recent lifestyle and entertainment projects include the 2015 MISS UNIVERSE® and 2016 MISS USA® telecasts; ELEAGUE, a professional eSports league created with Turner; the NBA All-Star All-Style special; and Made to Measure (M2M), a digital fashion network.

Netflix To Beam New CBS "Star Trek" Television Series In 188 Countries Around The World

2016-07-19T08:52:00.003-07:00

Netflix and CBS Studios International today announced a landmark international licensing agreement for the new "Star Trek" television series. Netflix will be the exclusive premiere home of "Star Trek" in 188 countries (excluding the US and Canada). Each episode of the new series will be available globally within 24 hours of its U.S. premiere.

Additionally, all 727 existing episodes of the iconic "Star Trek" television library – including "Star Trek: The Original Series," "Star Trek: The Next Generation," "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," "Star Trek: Voyager" and "Star Trek: Enterprise" will be available on Netflix around the world by the end of 2016.

The all-new "Star Trek" will begin production in Toronto in September for its January 2017 premiere. The iconic and influential global franchise will return to television for the first time since 2005 with a new ship, new characters and new missions, while embracing the same ideology and hope for the future that inspired a generation.

"The launch of the new 'Star Trek' will truly be a global television event," said Armando Nuñez, President and CEO, CBS Studios International. "'Star Trek' is already a worldwide phenomenon and this international partnership will provide fans around the world, who have been craving a new series for more than a decade, the opportunity to see every episode virtually at the same time as viewers in the U.S. Thanks to our world-class partners at Netflix, the new 'Star Trek' will definitely be 'hailing on all frequencies' throughout the planet."

"'Star Trek' is one of the most iconic shows in television history and we're thrilled to partner with CBS to bring the beloved series to Trekkies around the world," said Sean Carey, Vice President of Global Television at Netflix. "The newest chapter of the story promises to continue the rich tradition of adventure and is sure to excite fans everywhere Netflix is available."

In the U.S., the new "Star Trek" will launch with a special premiere episode on the CBS Television Network in January 2017. The premiere episode and all subsequent episodes will then be available in the United States exclusively on CBS All Access, the Network's digital subscription video on demand and live streaming service.

As previously announced, the new "Star Trek" marks the first original series developed for U.S. distribution on CBS All Access, which provides viewers thousands of episodes of CBS's current and past seasons on demand, plus the ability to stream their local CBS Television station live for $5.99 per month.

Alex Kurtzman and Bryan Fuller are co-creators and executive producers for the new "Star Trek," based on Gene Roddenberry's original series. Fuller launched his career writing for "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" and "Star Trek: Voyager." Kurtzman is co-writer and producer of the blockbuster films "Star Trek" and "Star Trek Into Darkness."

The series is produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Kurtzman's Secret Hideout, Fuller's Living Dead Guy Productions, and Roddenberry Entertainment. Alex Kurtzman, Bryan Fuller, Heather Kadin, Gretchen Berg & Aaron Harberts, Rod Roddenberry, and Trevor Roth will serve as executive producers.

#BooAMadeaHalloween Trailer 2 "Tricks Safe"

2016-07-15T07:44:00.001-07:00

Bounce TV Announces Major Initiative Calling for De-Escalation Training for Police

2016-07-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

Bounce TV, the first and only over-the-air broadcast television network for African Americans, is calling on the Department of Justice to make de-escalation training a requirement of all local law enforcement receiving federal funding and equipment.

Bounce TV will implement a major on-air, online and company-wide initiative to lobby for the cause, which will include Martin Luther King III, a founding father of Bounce, and the casts and producers of the network's original shows including Ed Gordon, In The Cut, Saints & Sinners, Mann & Wife and Family Time.

"We arm our police with weapons but we need to do better at arming them with the teaching and training on how they approach situations involving African Americans and how to de-escalate them," said Mr. King III. "This is not an indictment of all police personnel, just an element within a group of people who have difficult, challenging and stressful jobs. Our police protect and serve all Americans and all of them need to approach each and every situation with the same sense of civility. We must do all we can to help them with committed sensitivity training and work towards eliminating the implicit bias that is at the heart of the matter."

Bounce TV is teaming with The Root, the premier news, opinion and culture site for African-American influencers, to support the effort. The Root's editorial outlining the call to action can be found by clicking here.

People can stay connected with the initiative on social media by following Bounce TV's official Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts (@bouncetv) and by using the official hashtag, #CallJustice4Peace.

Radio One, Inc. Set to Cover Republican and Democratic National Conventions From the Black Perspective

2016-07-14T07:37:00.003-07:00

Radio One, Inc., the largest Black-owned and targeted multi-media company reaching over 82% of Black America will provide its digital, radio and television audiences with timely coverage of both the upcoming Republican and Democratic National Conventions in Cleveland, Ohio and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania respectively.

TV One's News One Now, the only daily television news program dedicated to Black viewers, will broadcast live each morning at 7 a.m. ET from the conventions with host and managing editor Roland S. Martin. Known for his political savvy, provocative interviews and no-nonsense approach, Martin will provide daily original reports and feature interviews with key stakeholders, including party representatives, delegates, surrogates, and celebrities, covering issues affecting the Black community. He is a veteran journalist and has been an influential figure reporting on the #BlackLivesMatter movement since its evolution and continues to keep the topic in the cultural forefront. News One Now has featured topics such as criminal justice reform, job opportunities for minorities, veteran affairs and public education--to name a few of the critical issues facing presidential nominees.

The expansive local and syndicated broadcast radio footprint of Radio One and Reach Media reaches over 25 million listeners weekly. EZ Street, midday talent on Washington DC's WKYS 93.9 FM is a radio veteran and versatile talent who will provide daily live coverage from the convention floor, along with recaps on all of Reach Media's nationally syndicated morning shows to ensure listeners are aware of the information shared at the conventions nightly. EZ Street will also 'take it to the street' and interview delegates in addition to residents in Cleveland and Philadelphia to capture the energy of these convention cities for our listeners.

Audiences can follow Roland Martin and EZ Street's behind the scene footage and complete, un-broadcasted interviews from the Republican and Democratic National Conventions at NewsOne.com. Reaching more than 100 million visitors weekly across its digital, social and mobile footprint, NewsOne.com is the premier news and information destination for and about Blacks in America. Daily, viewers can find news briefs and insightful commentary provided by the journalistic team of NewsOne.com.

Anthony Anderson, Amber Riley, Ludacris to guest star on 'Doc McStuffins' Season 4

2016-07-07T21:50:00.002-07:00

Season 4 of the animated pre-school series Doc McStuffins is set to hit television screens July 29 on Disney Junior.

It should be an amazingly different season with Anthony Anderson and Dawnn Lewis guest starring in the season premiere, "Welcome to McStuffinsville." The episode will be about what happens when "Doc's grandmother transports Doc to the magical world of McStuffinsville where she will carry on a family tradition by expanding her practice to the McStuffins Toy Hospital.

Actress and recording artist Amber Riley will perform the show's new theme song, "Doc McStuffins: Toy Hospital," in an episode debuting Aug. 5.

The great line of of guest stars doesn't stop with Anderson and Lewis, season 4 will also include Robin Roberts, Christopher "Ludacris" Bridges, Molly Ringwald, Ellen Pompeo, Gabourey Sidibe and Vanessa Williams.

The fun and lively series -- about a little girl who wants to be a doctor and practices by patching up ailing or broken toys -- debuted in 2012.

Tyra Banks Says She Love's That Rita Ora is the the New 'America's Next Top Model' host

2016-07-07T21:36:00.002-07:00

Tyra Banks has verbally passed the thorn to new America's Next Top Model host Rita Ora who is set to take over the modeling series once it returns to VH1.

"Rita and I spoke today. I love her," the former ANTM host explained to Entertainment Tonight Wednesday.

"She was like, 'Tyra, I don't want to fill your shoes, I want to create my own shoes.' So I was like, 'I got you boo," Banks continued.

"She was like, 'I just want some advice and some help.' So I'm going to have a session with her in person. I'm going to give her the ins and the outs, but make it you. Do you. She's gotta make it her's."

Banks originally hosted the hit runway reality series during its entire 22 season run. In February it was announced that ANTM would be returning for a new season on VH1 in which Banks will serve as an executive producer.

Ora was named the new host recently after impressing producers during her time as judge on The X Factor.

"I might dip in," Banks said about possibly appearing again on the show. "There will be a couple dips. Not a lot of dips. It's just like, 'Pow! What's up?' And then, 'OK, I'm out!'"

REVIEW: The Legend of Tarzan, A Beloved Movie Classic for a New Generation

2016-07-04T08:42:00.002-07:00

For those of you who love movies for the fantastic stories, incredible adventures and satisfaction of watching the good guys win in the end... you won't be disappointed. The tale of Tarzan is more than a century old and it continues to deliver in The Legend of Tarzan. There is a reason this classic lasts the tests of time, it's a great story. It has a hero, a damsel in distress, a villain and the dangers of the African jungle.

Alexander Skarsgard and Margot Robbie are this generation's Tarzan and Jane, with Jane in a much better role as an empowered, opinionated, intelligent, working woman of the late 19th century. Our Jane now has a boat load of gumption and huts pah! Our story finds Jane as a teacher in London, married to John Clayton (aka Tarzan), when she boldly invites herself along for a trip to Africa with her husband. After a strong protest, John Clayton finally gives in and welcomes Jane to join him -- despite the dangers that may lurk in the dark continent.

Embroiled in the politics of the day, John Clayton is invited to travel to Africa at the invitation of King Leopold. With no interest in entertaining the political agenda of the day, John Clayton politely declines, but is convinced to take the journey by George Washington Williams (played by Samuel L. Jackson). George Williams informs John Clayton that there is suspected illegal slave-trading and diamond mining is his beloved Africa, at the hands of King Leopold's minion, Leon Rom (played by Christoph Waltz). Enter, the villain.

In order for Leon Rom to mine diamonds in a lucrative territory, he must first deliver Tarzan to the region's Chief Mbonga (played by Djimon Hounsou). Bad blood between he and Tarzan gives way to a long overdue rumble in the jungle.

Throughout the film, audiences understand Tarzan's upbringing through flashbacks of the past. Enter gorillas and the jungle Tarzan reigns over as King. Special effects make for grand displays of nature, nurture and survival of the fittest among the gorilla clan. Spectacular images of Africa will have you longing to safari, leaving you in awe of the stunning African landscapes.

Don't forget to give a huge applause to the costume and set designers, who impeccably captured the wardrobe of the era and provided an authentic feel for our trip back in time. They did a 5-star job and deserve all the wonderful credit they can receive.

David Yates directs a film that completely lives up to the legendary story, rejuvenating it for this generation with special effects, captivating action and adventure. This film is the reason why some of us still go to the movies.

REVIEW: THE SHALLOWS | Not Much Bite In This Shark Tale

2016-07-04T08:36:00.002-07:00

If you like shark movies, you'll be fine with The Shallows. Although a movie for younger audiences, older moviegoers will be entertained, held in suspense, and find themselves rooting for the main character to survive. Blake Lively does well in the role of Nancy, a young medical school dropout grieving the recent loss of her Mother. However, after her lovely performance in The Age of Adaline, I expected Blake Lively to choose more complex and developed characters when making script choices.

As she heals from her tragic loss, Nancy travels to her mother's favorite beach to reminisce on fond memories. With her traveling companion too hungover to join her, Nancy befriends two natives and enjoys surfing at a beautifully tranquil and publicly unknown beach, whose name she cannot seem to uncover. Just before dusk, she ventures back to catch just one more wave and stumbles across a rotting whale. As Nancy attempts to paddle away, our underwater killing machine makes its appearance.

The shallows takes audiences through the many trials and tribulations of survival in the worst of surfer circumstances and you'll find yourself wanting to yell at screen as Nancy struggles to hold on to life.

I recognized no great feats of direction from Jaume Collet-Serra and I can only assume there was no huge budget, as most of the movie was filmed at one locale and underwater scenes were underwhelming. The Shallows is a decent date movie, a movie to go to with your friends, or a way to burn a couple of hours -- you choose. No need to rush out to theaters; you can wait for pay-per-view or DVD.

Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick in First Trailer for Dreamworks 'Trolls'

2016-07-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick star as a pair of wild-haired tree dwellers in Dreamworks upcoming animated comedy, Trolls.

Timberlake's character, Branch, is unhappy living next door to the colorful and cheerful leader of the trolls Poppy, voiced my Anna Kendrick. However, the two opposites must come together after their home is attacked by the troll-eating monster Bergens.

"From the creators of Shrek comes the most smart, funny, irreverent animated comedy of the year, DreamWorks' Trolls," notes the film's official synopsis. "This holiday season, enter a colorful, wondrous world populated by hilariously unforgettable characters and discover the story of the overly optimistic Trolls, with a constant song on their lips, and the comedicly pessimistic Bergens, who are only happy when they have trolls in their stomach."

The film will also feature original music from Timberlake and also stars Russell Brand, Icona Pop, Gwen Stefani and others. The debut trailer was set to the singer's latest single, "Can't Stop the Feeling."

Trolls is set to arrive in theaters Nov 4.

'Wreck-It Ralph' sequel to hit theaters in 2018

2016-07-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

Walt Disney Animation Studios says it has green-lit a sequel to its 2012 animated blockbuster Wreck-It Ralph.

John C. Reilly will once again lend his voice to the title character, with Sarah Silverman back as the "game-winning glitch, Vanellope von Schweetz," the studio said.

"From the moment we started working on the first Wreck-It Ralph, we knew there were so many possibilities with these characters," Moore said in a statement Thursday. "This time, Ralph's wrecking wreaks havoc on the Web -- as only he can do. Characters we loved in the first film are back and we are ecstatic to be working with them -- and the actors who voice them -- once again."

"Ralph is a character very near and dear to my heart," added Reilly. "I'm really looking forward to playing the big lug again. Making the first Wreck-It Ralph was one of the most special experiences I've ever had and I'm really looking forward to bringing him back to life. So many kids I've met all over the world are excited to see him again, too. They tell me all the time!"

The film will hit theaters on March 9, 2018.

REVIEW: Free State of Jones | An Oscar-Worthy Film In Every Aspect

2016-06-24T21:43:00.005-07:00

Let the Oscar buzz officially begin, for this work of cinematic greatness! If at all possible, you should see this film.

Based on a true story and set in Jones county, Mississippi in the late 1800s, this film shines as a great original screenplay with great acting, great costuming, great set design, great direction, and great cinematography -- this one has it it ALL. The story presented in this film deals with the heavy subject of slavery and the civil war from the most unique, original vantage point I've seen on film.

The main character, Newton Knight (Matthew McConaughey), is a poor, slaveless southerner fighting as a confederate soldier in a war he neither supports or believes in. One of the oppressed, himself, Newton Knight flees the confederate army and takes a stand for the oppressed citizens of Jones county, Mississippi -- all of the oppressed citizens of Jones county, Mississippi. Anchoring to the very real contention of generational bias, the story takes the audience to a more modern era (circa 1950), where the story truly begins. A descendant of Newton Knight is being tried in a Mississippi court on the validity of his marriage, under the "one drop" law. This is a real law that existed in Mississippi, where anyone with even one drop of African-American blood would be classified as "colored" and forbidden to marry anyone other than another African-American. The court then investigates the genealogy of the modern-day Mr. Knight and our look into Jones county begins.

The film respectfully and gracefully deals with the realities of Mississippi in the late 1800s, but you won't see the the focus on the horrifying treatment of slaves or the inhumane souls of masters towards their slaves. Don't get me wrong, it's all there but, you will be taken on another journey altogether. You will see how poor whites embraced, lived with, fought along side, and respected the slave population in a time when doing so meant eminent death. You will see oppressed people stand in the face of the devilish, confederate army of the time and win.

Supporting roles in this film are played by Kerri Russell, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Troy Hogan, Jill Jane Clements, and Bill Tangradi -- all of which could nab an Oscar nomination on their own merits in this film. Most especially deserving of an Oscar nomination in the supporting actor category, is Mahershala Ali in the role of Moses. Maybe better recognized in his role as Queenie's love interest in the film, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", Ali's performance was both breathtaking and heartbreaking.

As a director, Gary Ross captures the complicated, multi-faceted issues of the time while connecting that reality to modern times and delicately serving the story line with both grit and grace.

REVIEW: Independence Day: Resurgence | A Formulaic Quest for Commercial Success

2016-06-24T21:16:00.001-07:00

Fans of the first Independence Day film have eagerly awaited this sequel -- Viben On Films water cooler regulars being some of them! However, the chatter around the water is that, Independence Day: Resurgence did not surpass the first. Overall, this film delivers on the action of the first film and lends itself to the original story line, which made it largely formulaic. It's as if the screenwriter was afraid to move away from the film's original structure. So, while audiences will be glad to see the story line continue, they will also experience dejavue. My wish is that the script be able to evolve, without the audience feeling as though the writer tried to squeeze in everything and the kitchen sink.

Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Brent Spiner and Judd Hirsch all resurrected their roles with the same talent and vigor as audiences would expect. Their roles were the most well-defined and performed well. Jessie T. Usher and Liam Hemsworth could very well have filled the shoes of Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum, this time around. However, the addition of an ensemble cast turned a potential next-generation, alien-hunting duo into something more along the lines of "The Fast and The Furious".

The one story line -- which should have fueled the propulsion of this film -- is that of Dikembe Umbutu (played by Deobia Oparei), a Congo warlord in control of the crashed alien ship emitting a distress beacon and, Catherine Marceaux (played by Charlotte Gainsbourg), an archeologist eager to understand the language and culture of the alien invaders. Both roles were sadly under-developed for what the characters could have brought to the table.

The special effects were enjoyable and our alien enemies return bigger and badder than the first invasion. The underlying message of human resilience in the face of adversity still holds true in this film; a message we can all contemplate.

It's a decent time at the theater but, don't expect too much. The quest for commercial success far outweighs the integrity put into this sequel.

REVIEW: Central Intelligence is Funny With A Solid Message

2016-06-17T23:24:00.000-07:00

Central Intelligence is a truly funny film with a solid message. The story begins with The Rock's character (Robbie Weirdicht, a bullied high-school student) experiencing a humiliating and embarrassing prank, in front of the entire student body. An empathetic high school superstar, Calvin Joyner (Kevin Hart's character) helps to diffuse the situation as best he can. Years later, when the high school reunion rolls around, Robbie Weirdicht (now known as Bob Stone) reconnects with his old friend via Facebook. Unbeknown to Calvin Joyner, the once bullied strange-ling from high school is now a CIA agent on the run.

You can only imagine how this story unfolds, given the special brand of humor that Kevin Hart is known for. However, the big surprise here is The Rock. Also known as Dwayne Johnson, The Rock shows huge growth as a seasoned comedic actor. To say The Rock was funny in this film is a grave understatement; The Rock was hilarious! Aside from being a delicious piece of eye candy for women everywhere, The Rock should be loudly applauded for showing just how well his comedic ability has matured. Melissa McCartney makes a giggle-inducing cameo in the film and the other supporting actors do a satisfactory job as well.

There will be no Oscar nominations for this script or its direction but, the underlying message of the abhorable issue of bullying in our current society is one that is greatly appreciated.

This is a great date movie or a good way to spend a few hours, over the weekend. Go see it.

REVIEW: Disney and Pixar Provide an Ocean of Adventure with Finding Dory

2016-06-17T23:14:00.004-07:00

Grown folks and kids are chatting around the Viben On Films water cooler about how absolutely fabulous FINDING DORY is.

FINDING DORY cements Disney and Pixar as animation box office geniuses. In this year of great sequels, Finding Dory gives the same fun-filled, underwater adventure as its predecessor, Finding Nemo. The story opens with a peek into Dory's childhood, explaining how she lost her way from home many years ago. An adorable baby Dory comes to grips with her "disability" of short-term memory loss, while her parents encourage her to "Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming". When her memory miraculously returns years later, Dory sets out on an adventure of a sea-worthy lifetime in search for her parents.

With Nemo and Marlin in tow, this comical threesome visit many old friends on their quest; Crush and Squirt make a colorful appearance in the ocean current and point them in the right direction. Once in the familiar landscape of her childhood, she reconnects with her old friend, Destiny (a near-sighted whale shark), and a new friend, Bailey (a beluga whale who has lost his ability to echo locate).

The visual presentation of this film is grand and simply incredible to watch. The realness of an animated ocean in all its color and splendor, will mesmerize you.

Ellen Degeneres returns as the voice Dory, along with Hayden Rolence as the voice of Nemo and Albert Brooks as the voice of Marlin. Newcomers to this heartwarming tale include Ed O'Neill as the voice of Hank, a stressed out Septopus looking to escape to the Cleveland zoo for peace and solitude away from the open sea.

Take the kids to see this film on an Imax screen in 3-D, if at all possible. It's an experience they'll not soon forget.

Tupac Shakur rises to fame in first trailer for biopic 'All Eyez on Me'

2016-06-16T20:47:00.002-07:00

Favorite lyrics and hip hop words are dropping all around the Viben On Films water cooler about the new trailer that has dropped for ALL EYEZ ON ME, a film "situated" around the life and times of famed rapper Tupac Shakuri.

Morgan Creek Productions has wrapped shooting on the Tupac Shukur biopic “All Eyez on Me,” and a teaser trailer released Thursday, on what would have been Shakur's 45th birthday. The film is situated around the music legend rising to fame to become one of the most famous hip-hop stars of all time.

Starring newcomer Demetrius Shipp Jr. in the feature role, All Eyez on Me, directed by music video veteran Benny Boom, also stars Kat Graham as Jada Pinkett, Stefon Washington as Puff Daddy, Dominic L. Santana as Suge Knight, Jamal Woolard as The Notorious B.I.G. and Walking Dead star Danai Gurira as Shakur's recently deceased mother Afeni Shakur.

"Son this ain't just about you. Like all black men, you have a bullseye on your back," Afeni is seen saying to her son in the clip as he deals with issues of racism and police brutality.

The film is set for release on Nov. 11, and will mark the 20th anniversary of Shakur's death. The legendary West Coast rapper was famously shot on Sept. 7, 1996 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and died from his injuries six days later. The shooter was never caught.

Kevin Hart: What Now? Trailer

2016-06-13T16:39:00.002-07:00

COMING OCTOBER 14, 2016

Series Premiere of “EJNYC” This Sunday, June 19th Beginning at 10pm ET/PT

2016-06-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

EJ Johnson takes his over the top personality and incomparable style to the big apple in his spin-off series “EJNYC.” The six-part series features glitz and glam from an all-new perspective as celebrity heir EJ Johnson, alongside his #Glamtourage – which includes sister Elisa Johnson, and Samaria Smith, daughter of LL Cool J, and Persian real estate development heir Sanaz Panahi – do #TheMost while jet-setting from coast to coast.

"NASHVILLE" Lands On ABC

2016-06-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

There has been so much chatter going on around the #VibenOnFilms water cooler about NASHVILLE that the containers are empty.

The tremendous outcry from legions of devoted fans, CMT, Hulu, Lionsgate and ABC Studios today announced that the critically acclaimed and fan darling series "Nashville" will return with a brand new season on CMT. Long-time SVOD partner Hulu will continue to bring fans their favorite series 24/7 by making all "Nashville" episodes available to stream the day after they air on CMT.

The series is produced by Lionsgate, ABC Studios, and Opry Entertainment. Production will commence in Nashville with Ed Zwick and Marshall Herskovitz (the creators of "Thirtysomething") at the helm. The deal, negotiated by Lionsgate Television Group President Sandra Stern on behalf of Lionsgate and ABC Studios, Sarah Levy of Viacom Kids and Family Group on behalf of CMT, and Hulu executives, is an orchestrated initiative to ensure that "Nashville" fans will continue to have the same level of access to their favorite show.

"CMT heard the fans. The wave of love and appreciation they have unleashed for 'Nashville' has been overwhelming," said Brian Philips, President of CMT. "'Nashville' is a perfect addition to our evolving line-up of big music specials, documentaries, and original series. We see our fans and ourselves in this show and we will treasure it like no other network. Nashville belongs on CMT."

"'Nashville' has long been a fan favorite show on Hulu and we are so proud to continue to make new episodes available for fans to stream the day after they air," said Craig Erwich, SVP and Head of Content, Hulu. "We look forward to bringing even more episodes of this acclaimed series to its passionate and devoted audience."

"CMT and Hulu are the perfect combination for our iconic and beloved series 'Nashville' and we want to thank the incredible fans for their unwavering support—#Nashies, you helped make this possible," said Kevin Beggs, Chairman of the Lionsgate Television Group. "We also want to extend our appreciation to the State of Tennessee, City of Nashville, and Ryman Hospitality for their unending support. They have been a key ingredient to the continued success of this show and we're thrilled to extend our partnership for a fifth season."