Actors in Tinseltown often take on roles that push them outside of their comfort zones. Few actors understand this better. Case in point: Denzel Washington, whose portrayal of American Muslim minister and civil rights leader in Malcolm X was filled with intense dedication—and, unexpectedly, tangible fear.
Before slipping into the character for Spike Lee’s Oscar-nominated masterpiece, Washington’s introduction to Malcolm X was somewhat limited, confined to his stage performance in When the Chickens Come Home to Roost. Learning more about Malcolm’s life’s complexities, the weight of the role grew apparent, leaving a lasting imprint on Washington’s psyche.
Denzel Washington in The Tragedy of Macbeth
The actor, 69, appreciated for his dynamic performances, found himself in uncharted waters—it wasn’t just the challenge of embodying such a complex real-life character but also stepping onto a stage where politics could translate into a real threat to one’s safety.
Before slipping into the character for Spike Lee’s Oscar-nominated masterpiece, Washington’s introduction to Malcolm X was somewhat limited, confined to his stage performance in When the Chickens Come Home to Roost. Learning more about Malcolm’s life’s complexities, the weight of the role grew apparent, leaving a lasting imprint on Washington’s psyche.
Denzel Washington in The Tragedy of Macbeth
The actor, 69, appreciated for his dynamic performances, found himself in uncharted waters—it wasn’t just the challenge of embodying such a complex real-life character but also stepping onto a stage where politics could translate into a real threat to one’s safety.
- 5/7/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Actor Denzel Washington starred as the titular character Malcolm X in Spike Lee’s critically acclaimed biopic. The movie was one of the most important features in Washington’s career, and it also might’ve been one of the most intimidating.
Washington and Lee didn’t have the typical worries filming Malcolm X like underperforming or bad reviews. Instead, doing the feature would have them scared for their lives.
Denzel Washington spoke on the dangers of filming ‘Malcolm X’ Denzel Washington | Michael Kovac/Getty Images
Washington was already familiar with Malcolm X prior to shooting the 1992 picture. He was cast as the iconic figure in the play When the Chickens Come Home to Roost. Up until that point, although Washington knew of Malcolm, his knowledge was very limited.
“I didn’t have a view of Malcolm then,” Washington once told The New York Times.
After doing a little more research on Malcolm,...
Washington and Lee didn’t have the typical worries filming Malcolm X like underperforming or bad reviews. Instead, doing the feature would have them scared for their lives.
Denzel Washington spoke on the dangers of filming ‘Malcolm X’ Denzel Washington | Michael Kovac/Getty Images
Washington was already familiar with Malcolm X prior to shooting the 1992 picture. He was cast as the iconic figure in the play When the Chickens Come Home to Roost. Up until that point, although Washington knew of Malcolm, his knowledge was very limited.
“I didn’t have a view of Malcolm then,” Washington once told The New York Times.
After doing a little more research on Malcolm,...
- 5/7/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Coming off the success of The Dark Knight trilogy, WB wanted to take a similar route for Superman, leading them to bring Zack Snyder on board for 2013’s Man of Steel, starring Henry Cavill. But considering, unlike Batman, Superman is a bright and optimistic character, making him dark and brooding didn’t land well among fans, and with Bvs, these issues only aggravated.
While the Dceu might’ve gotten more wrongs than rights regarding the beloved heroes, it did excel in the costume department, especially with Superman, which inspired Black Panther’s iconic suit.
Henry Cavill’s Suit Served as a Reference for Black Panther
Henry Cavill | Man of Steel (via Warner Bros. Pictures)
Whether it be the black suit in Zslj or the traditional one in Man of Steel, the costume designers did hit out of the park with the Superman outfit. Even though the colors on Henry Cavill...
While the Dceu might’ve gotten more wrongs than rights regarding the beloved heroes, it did excel in the costume department, especially with Superman, which inspired Black Panther’s iconic suit.
Henry Cavill’s Suit Served as a Reference for Black Panther
Henry Cavill | Man of Steel (via Warner Bros. Pictures)
Whether it be the black suit in Zslj or the traditional one in Man of Steel, the costume designers did hit out of the park with the Superman outfit. Even though the colors on Henry Cavill...
- 4/14/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Jonathan Majors has made his first public appearance at an industry event after being found guilty of reckless assault and harassment. The Lovecraft Country alum attended the 7th Annual Aafca Special Achievement Awards luncheon with Meagan Good.
The couple walked the red carpet of the event held at the Centennial Room at the Los Angeles Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles.
Majors’ sentencing for his domestic violence convictions is scheduled for April when he will find out if he’ll have to serve time in jail.
At the invitation-only luncheon, bestowed honors upon the feature film Killers of the Flower Moon, which received the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award for shining a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing duo behind Foxxhole Productions, were honored with Aafca’s Producers Award for their work on films like They Cloned Tyrone,...
The couple walked the red carpet of the event held at the Centennial Room at the Los Angeles Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles.
Majors’ sentencing for his domestic violence convictions is scheduled for April when he will find out if he’ll have to serve time in jail.
At the invitation-only luncheon, bestowed honors upon the feature film Killers of the Flower Moon, which received the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award for shining a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing duo behind Foxxhole Productions, were honored with Aafca’s Producers Award for their work on films like They Cloned Tyrone,...
- 3/3/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Dublin International Film Festival has unveiled its full programme for the upcoming edition, opening with the world premiere of Irish filmmaker Marian Quinn’s anti-war epic Twig.
This re-telling of Greek tragedy Antigone stars Sade Malone in the titular role and Brían F. O’Byrne, and is set in Dublin’s inner city, where an ancient city wall cordons off a neighbourhood which is rife with drugs. It is produced by Ireland’s Ruth Carter of Blue Ink Films and Tommy Weir for Janey Pictures.
Further Irish filmmaking talent showcased includes the previously announced closing night film, Pat Collins’ adaptation of...
This re-telling of Greek tragedy Antigone stars Sade Malone in the titular role and Brían F. O’Byrne, and is set in Dublin’s inner city, where an ancient city wall cordons off a neighbourhood which is rife with drugs. It is produced by Ireland’s Ruth Carter of Blue Ink Films and Tommy Weir for Janey Pictures.
Further Irish filmmaking talent showcased includes the previously announced closing night film, Pat Collins’ adaptation of...
- 1/22/2024
- ScreenDaily
“Oppenheimer” composer Ludwig Göransson and editor Jennifer Lame, “Killers of the Flower Moon” cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, and Billie Eilish and Finneas are among the recipients of Variety’s Artisans Awards.
The honorees will be feted at the Santa Barbara Film Festival on Feb. 11 at the Arlington Theatre.
Now in its tenth year, Variety‘s partnership with the Santa Barbara Film Festival celebrates the artisans who have showcased the most innovative work of the year in their craft.
“With writers and actors on strike for the better half of 2023, it was artisans who held the entertainment industry up. They showed their vitality to the filmmaking process and championed their respective films,” said Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay. “At Variety, we cherish the craft and are passionate about hearing their stories. This year, there was an embarrassment of riches in the world-building of films, and it’s wonderful to partner with Roger Durling,...
The honorees will be feted at the Santa Barbara Film Festival on Feb. 11 at the Arlington Theatre.
Now in its tenth year, Variety‘s partnership with the Santa Barbara Film Festival celebrates the artisans who have showcased the most innovative work of the year in their craft.
“With writers and actors on strike for the better half of 2023, it was artisans who held the entertainment industry up. They showed their vitality to the filmmaking process and championed their respective films,” said Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay. “At Variety, we cherish the craft and are passionate about hearing their stories. This year, there was an embarrassment of riches in the world-building of films, and it’s wonderful to partner with Roger Durling,...
- 1/17/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The African American Film Critics Association (Aafca) has revealed its 2024 Special Achievement honorees, who will be celebrated at the organization’s 7th annual Aafca Special Achievement Award luncheon on March 3 at the Los Angeles Athletic Club.
Killers of the Flower Moon will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award for “shining a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders,” according to the organization.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing team behind Foxxhole Productions, will receive the Aafca’s Producers Award for their films They Cloned Tyrone, Story Ave and The Burial, as well as Foxxhole’s continued commitment of telling inclusive stories on screen.
Choreographer Fatima Robinson will be honored with Aafca’s Salute to Excellence Award, which celebrates her contribution to choreography, including her recent work on The Color Purple.
The late Michael Latt will receive the inaugural Freedom Award, which was established in his honor,...
Killers of the Flower Moon will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award for “shining a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders,” according to the organization.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing team behind Foxxhole Productions, will receive the Aafca’s Producers Award for their films They Cloned Tyrone, Story Ave and The Burial, as well as Foxxhole’s continued commitment of telling inclusive stories on screen.
Choreographer Fatima Robinson will be honored with Aafca’s Salute to Excellence Award, which celebrates her contribution to choreography, including her recent work on The Color Purple.
The late Michael Latt will receive the inaugural Freedom Award, which was established in his honor,...
- 1/11/2024
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The African American Film Critics Association (Aafca) reveals its list of 2024 Special Achievement Honorees which includes Killers of the Flower Moon, Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner at Foxxhole productions, Fatima Robinson, head choreographer on The Color Purple 2024, and others were chosen for their contributions to the entertainment industry. These honorees will be celebrated at the organization’s 7th Annual Aafca Special Achievement Awards luncheon, taking place on Sunday, March 3rd in the Centennial Room at the Los Angeles Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles.
Recipients of the Aafca Special Achievement Awards are carefully selected by a committee and chosen based on their contributions throughout their careers. These honorees represent talent both behind and in front of the camera, including executives, journalists, actors, crafts artists, and filmmakers.
The invitation-only luncheon will bestow honors upon the feature film Killers of the Flower Moon, which will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice...
Recipients of the Aafca Special Achievement Awards are carefully selected by a committee and chosen based on their contributions throughout their careers. These honorees represent talent both behind and in front of the camera, including executives, journalists, actors, crafts artists, and filmmakers.
The invitation-only luncheon will bestow honors upon the feature film Killers of the Flower Moon, which will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice...
- 1/11/2024
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Jingle Jangle and Almost Christmas director/writer/producer David E. Talbert is launching Hbcu Next, a fellowship program that will bring aspiring filmmakers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities to the USC School of Cinematic Arts (Sca) Summer Program.
Talbert conceived and funded Hbcu Next alongside his wife and producing partner Lyn Sisson-Talbert as an opportunity to enrich the educational experience for students of Color. Within this program, participants will gain essential career insights and the creative skills required to develop more authentic portrayals of Black experiences and culture within screenwriting, filmmaking, and the evolving media landscape.
Talbert says, “Our overall objective is to foster an environment for students from HBCUs and USC to engage in cultural exchange, learning from one another’s experiences and backgrounds, and to provide access to an education conducive to giving Black storytellers a pipeline to the entertainment industry.”
“The industry gets to benefit...
Talbert conceived and funded Hbcu Next alongside his wife and producing partner Lyn Sisson-Talbert as an opportunity to enrich the educational experience for students of Color. Within this program, participants will gain essential career insights and the creative skills required to develop more authentic portrayals of Black experiences and culture within screenwriting, filmmaking, and the evolving media landscape.
Talbert says, “Our overall objective is to foster an environment for students from HBCUs and USC to engage in cultural exchange, learning from one another’s experiences and backgrounds, and to provide access to an education conducive to giving Black storytellers a pipeline to the entertainment industry.”
“The industry gets to benefit...
- 11/8/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
To look at Ruth E. Carter’s body of work is intimidating, ranging from nearly all of Spike Lee’s directorial efforts to crafting the wardrobe for both “Black Panther” features. Now, the two-time Oscar-winner is receiving a tribute courtesy of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures this Saturday where she’ll be sitting down with the Academy’s director and President, Jacqueline Stewart, for a discussion about her illustrious career and a signing of her first book, “The Art of Ruth E. Carter.”
“It further confirms that I am supported by my peers, and that the efforts that I have made throughout my career that [are] outlined in this book are supported and celebrated by the Academy,” Carter told TheWrap. “For a young girl from Springfield who pulled herself up by her bootstraps and made it out to Los Angeles in a little Volkswagen Rabbit, and worked hard in the...
“It further confirms that I am supported by my peers, and that the efforts that I have made throughout my career that [are] outlined in this book are supported and celebrated by the Academy,” Carter told TheWrap. “For a young girl from Springfield who pulled herself up by her bootstraps and made it out to Los Angeles in a little Volkswagen Rabbit, and worked hard in the...
- 7/28/2023
- by Kristen Lopez
- The Wrap
Angela Bassett worked out for 12 hours and had no time to eat when she played Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to do With It’. The 64-year-old ended up with a best actress Oscar nomination for playing Tina in the harrowing 1993 film, which charted Tina’s brutal years with her abusive husband Ike Turner, who subjected her to years of physical and mental torment so severe it left the late singer with Ptsd. In an interview with Variety to mark the 30th anniversary of the film about the ‘Private Dancer’ singer, who died in May aged 83 at her home in Switzerland after years of battling kidney problems, Angela said about her gruelling regime on the film: “You got up at five in the morning, went to the gym to work out for two-and-a-half hours. “Then you would head to Michael Peters (the choreographer) and learn routines – which were all intense cardio – for about 10 hours.
- 6/26/2023
- by BANG Showbiz Reporter
- Bang Showbiz
In the opening of Tina and Ike Turner’s rendition of Creedance Clearwater’s “Proud Mary,” Tina gives a disclaimer to the audience: “Every now and then I think you might like to hear something from us nice and easy, but there’s just one thing, you see: we never ever do nothing nice and easy.” When Angela Bassett took on the task of portraying Turner in 1993 for “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” she took that to heart.
In the 30 days between landing the role and the first day of shooting, Bassett worked 16-hour days, exercising each morning before learning dance numbers with Turner and choreographer Michael Peters. Bassett also worked with her co-star Laurence Fishburne to act scenes depicting the violence and domestic abuse that Tina endured through her marriage. It was anything but nice and easy.
Bassett spoke with Variety for the 30th anniversary of “What’s Love Got to Do With It...
In the 30 days between landing the role and the first day of shooting, Bassett worked 16-hour days, exercising each morning before learning dance numbers with Turner and choreographer Michael Peters. Bassett also worked with her co-star Laurence Fishburne to act scenes depicting the violence and domestic abuse that Tina endured through her marriage. It was anything but nice and easy.
Bassett spoke with Variety for the 30th anniversary of “What’s Love Got to Do With It...
- 6/25/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Angela Bassett is a force of nature in Hollywood. Her talent, strength, and longevity in an industry known for its fleeting moments of fame speak to her relevance and influence. Her rise as a distinguished African American actress in Hollywood has had an impact on the entertainment industry and the representation of Black talent. Bassett’s breakthrough role came in 1993 when she played Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do With It. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination. This performance was instrumental in breaking away from the tropes that plagued Black actresses in Hollywood, demonstrating that they could carry films of prestige.
In 1998, Angela Bassett brought the lead character of Stella Payne to life in the film adaptation of Terry McMillan’s novel How Stella Got Her Groove Back. In the first feature film from Kevin Sullivan, Bassett’s portrayal of a successful 40-year-old stockbroker who takes a well-deserved vacation in Jamaica,...
In 1998, Angela Bassett brought the lead character of Stella Payne to life in the film adaptation of Terry McMillan’s novel How Stella Got Her Groove Back. In the first feature film from Kevin Sullivan, Bassett’s portrayal of a successful 40-year-old stockbroker who takes a well-deserved vacation in Jamaica,...
- 6/18/2023
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Ruth Carter doesn’t need the prefix “costume designer” in front of her name; she is a household name. Carter made Oscar history when she became the first Black woman ever to win two Oscars, thanks to her work on the “Black Panther” films.
With credits that include “Selma,” “Malcolm X,” “Coming 2 America” and being Spike Lee’s go-to, Carter has stories to tell. In her new book, “The Art of Ruth E. Carter,” she shares those stories. The book covers three decades of work and some of her 72 credits.
Carter spoke with Variety about the book, her first time working in TV and on the “Seinfeld” pilot, as well as the most expensive costume she ever worked on.
We’ve been talking about the book for a while, how does it feel to have it out now?
I didn’t realize I was birthing a baby. I was...
With credits that include “Selma,” “Malcolm X,” “Coming 2 America” and being Spike Lee’s go-to, Carter has stories to tell. In her new book, “The Art of Ruth E. Carter,” she shares those stories. The book covers three decades of work and some of her 72 credits.
Carter spoke with Variety about the book, her first time working in TV and on the “Seinfeld” pilot, as well as the most expensive costume she ever worked on.
We’ve been talking about the book for a while, how does it feel to have it out now?
I didn’t realize I was birthing a baby. I was...
- 6/7/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Critics can debate just how diverse the 2023 Oscars really were. Alongside a record number of winners of ethnically Chinese and Indian decent — including Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, director-screenwriter Daniel Kwan and producer Jonathan Wang for Everything Everywhere All At Once, and a best song trophy for “Naatu Naatu” composer M.M. Keeravaani and lyricist Chandrabose — the 95th Academy Awards includes just a single Black winner, costume designer Ruth Carter, who picked up her second Oscar for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and just one Oscar for a Latino filmmaker, going to Mexican director Guillermo del Toro for his animated feature Pinocchio.
On one measure, however, the 2023 Oscars get top marks. This year’s event was one of the most globally diverse in the event’s history.
Winners in 13 of 24 Oscar categories hailed from outside the U.S. — 15 if you include Ke Huy Quan, (who was born in Vietnam and immigrated...
On one measure, however, the 2023 Oscars get top marks. This year’s event was one of the most globally diverse in the event’s history.
Winners in 13 of 24 Oscar categories hailed from outside the U.S. — 15 if you include Ke Huy Quan, (who was born in Vietnam and immigrated...
- 3/17/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s a question even the most fastidious awards watcher might have trouble answering off the top of their head: Who won the Oscars last year? While Best Picture winners are often impossible to forget, keeping track of who took home Academy Awards in the below-the-line categories often requires a little more work. Here’s who won at the ceremony last year — and a preview of the 2023 Oscars as well.
Who won the Oscars last year?
The 94th Oscars took place on March 27, 2022, a relative return to normal after the 2021 ceremony was directly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. While the list of 2022 Oscar winners (seen below) represents the academy’s take on the best of 2021 in film, the ceremony won’t be remembered for those who took home Academy Awards. Instead, it will live in infamy as the show when Will Smith, who won Best Actor for “King Richard,” went...
Who won the Oscars last year?
The 94th Oscars took place on March 27, 2022, a relative return to normal after the 2021 ceremony was directly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. While the list of 2022 Oscar winners (seen below) represents the academy’s take on the best of 2021 in film, the ceremony won’t be remembered for those who took home Academy Awards. Instead, it will live in infamy as the show when Will Smith, who won Best Actor for “King Richard,” went...
- 3/14/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
The Champagne carpet officially rolled out at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood for the 95th Academy Awards, kicking off the final stretch of Oscar pre-parties and events as Hollywood gears up for March 12.
The food, beverages and décor of this year’s Governors Ball, the Academy’s official post-Oscars celebration, was revealed Tuesday at a press conference by Wolfgang Puck, who crafted this year’s menu with Eric Klein, VP of culinary at Wolfgang Puck Catering.
Nominees, winners and guests will be treated to a variety of tray-passed dishes, created by 120 chefs in the kitchen, from smoked salmon Oscars matzah and Wp signature pizzas to crispy Moroccan lamb cigars.
Related: Oscar Photos 2023: The Best Of The Red Carpet & Gala Ceremony
Elton John returned to hosting his annual 31st Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on Sunday, March 12th and will be by joined by Eric McCormack and...
The food, beverages and décor of this year’s Governors Ball, the Academy’s official post-Oscars celebration, was revealed Tuesday at a press conference by Wolfgang Puck, who crafted this year’s menu with Eric Klein, VP of culinary at Wolfgang Puck Catering.
Nominees, winners and guests will be treated to a variety of tray-passed dishes, created by 120 chefs in the kitchen, from smoked salmon Oscars matzah and Wp signature pizzas to crispy Moroccan lamb cigars.
Related: Oscar Photos 2023: The Best Of The Red Carpet & Gala Ceremony
Elton John returned to hosting his annual 31st Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on Sunday, March 12th and will be by joined by Eric McCormack and...
- 3/13/2023
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
“Cruella” (Disney),” “Dune” (Warner Bros.), and “Coming 2 America” (Amazon Prime) were the big film winners Wednesday night at the 24th annual Costume Designers Guild Awards. “Cruella” designer and two-time Oscar winner Jenny Beavan won for period; Denis Villeneuve’s epic “Dune” took sci-fi honors for costume designers Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan; and Oscar winner Ruth Carter (“Black Panther”) earned the contemporary prize for “Coming 2 America.”
Held at the The Broad Stage in Santa Monica, the annual awards celebrated the best in film, TV, and short-form costume design in eight categories that spanned fantasy, contemporary, and period works. Show hosts were actors Andrew Rannells (“The Prom”) and Casey Wilson (“The Shrink Next Door”).
Wednesday’s wins clearly puts “Cruella” in the Oscar driver’s seat after beating the other three period Oscar nominees — “Cyrano,” “Nightmare Alley,” and “West Side Story.” That leaves “Dune” as the other Oscar contender,...
Held at the The Broad Stage in Santa Monica, the annual awards celebrated the best in film, TV, and short-form costume design in eight categories that spanned fantasy, contemporary, and period works. Show hosts were actors Andrew Rannells (“The Prom”) and Casey Wilson (“The Shrink Next Door”).
Wednesday’s wins clearly puts “Cruella” in the Oscar driver’s seat after beating the other three period Oscar nominees — “Cyrano,” “Nightmare Alley,” and “West Side Story.” That leaves “Dune” as the other Oscar contender,...
- 3/10/2022
- by Bill Desowitz and Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
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