Exclusive: After a five-year run at the company and the recent acquisition of Oscar nominee Io Capitano, Robert Aaronson has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Cohen Media Group (Cmg).
Aaronson has been overseeing Cmg’s LA office since 2019, primarily responsible for theatrical acquisitions, digital and ancillary distribution, licensing of the company’s classic movie archive, and programming its SVOD platform. He will continue to report directly to company CEO and founder Charles S. Cohen.
Among recent acquisitions for Cmg is Matteo Garrone’s Best International Feature Film nominee Io Capitano. Cmg is also coming out of the Berlin Film Festival where they picked up Black Tea by Abderrahmane Sissako, and Martin Scorsese-narrated doc Made In England: The Films Of Powell and Pressburger.
Prior to joining Cmg, Aaronson held domestic and worldwide acquisitions, co-productions and distribution positions at Universal Pictures Content Group, Netflix, Fox and New Line Cinema,...
Aaronson has been overseeing Cmg’s LA office since 2019, primarily responsible for theatrical acquisitions, digital and ancillary distribution, licensing of the company’s classic movie archive, and programming its SVOD platform. He will continue to report directly to company CEO and founder Charles S. Cohen.
Among recent acquisitions for Cmg is Matteo Garrone’s Best International Feature Film nominee Io Capitano. Cmg is also coming out of the Berlin Film Festival where they picked up Black Tea by Abderrahmane Sissako, and Martin Scorsese-narrated doc Made In England: The Films Of Powell and Pressburger.
Prior to joining Cmg, Aaronson held domestic and worldwide acquisitions, co-productions and distribution positions at Universal Pictures Content Group, Netflix, Fox and New Line Cinema,...
- 3/5/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Regina Hall came down with pneumonia while shooting Girls Trip, the irreverent 2017 comedy from Will Packer, a savant who repeatedly has shown an obdurate Hollywood that Black movies can mint money at the box office. Hall recalls Packer’s superpower: persuading anyone, be they filmmakers, studio execs or, in this case, his star, to do what needs to be done. “I came to work, they tested me, and I had a fever. Will said he would rearrange the entire schedule so we could shoot my part first: ‘If you can just get through this scene for me, you won’t have to do anything else,’ ” she says. “I did get through it, and he made sure I had everything I needed to heal.”
Girls Trip — the first movie produced, written, directed by and starring African Americans to cross $100 million at the domestic box office on its way to earning $140.9 million...
Girls Trip — the first movie produced, written, directed by and starring African Americans to cross $100 million at the domestic box office on its way to earning $140.9 million...
- 1/8/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This Post Contains spoilers for this week’s episode of Fox’s The Masked Singer.
The Masked Singer panelists dressed the part riding Harleys, smearing red lipstick over dressing room mirrors, and chucking hand horns to the sky during a special rock and roll-themed night. While Group B finalists Tiki, Husky, and Sea Queen gave head-banging performances only Sea Queen would head to the finale. Husky was the first to be sent home and was revealed as R&b legend Ginuwine.
Tiki didn’t go home without a fight, and...
The Masked Singer panelists dressed the part riding Harleys, smearing red lipstick over dressing room mirrors, and chucking hand horns to the sky during a special rock and roll-themed night. While Group B finalists Tiki, Husky, and Sea Queen gave head-banging performances only Sea Queen would head to the finale. Husky was the first to be sent home and was revealed as R&b legend Ginuwine.
Tiki didn’t go home without a fight, and...
- 12/7/2023
- by Kalia Richardson
- Rollingstone.com
Fox’s The Masked Singer Season 10 continues with the Group B singers belting it out for Harry Potter Night. Tiki, Hawk, Husky, and the wild card, Sea Queen, take the stage. Royal Hen was unmasked during Elton John Night, and it was revealed that tennis legend Billie Jean King sang beneath the mask. So, who is Husky? According to The Masked Singer Season 10 spoilers, here’s what fans think.
[Spoiler alert: The Masked Singer Season 10 spoilers ahead regarding Husky.]
Who is Husky in ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 10? Fans are convinced it’s this R&b singer
The Masked Singer Season 10 features Husky singing again for Harry Potter Night. So, who could Husky be? Fans think Ginuwine sings under the mask.
Elgin Baylor Lumpkin, aka Ginuwine, started his career in the ’90s as a member of Swing Mob. He then signed on to a record label as a solo artist in the mid-’90s, releasing multi-platinum and platinum-selling albums and singles...
[Spoiler alert: The Masked Singer Season 10 spoilers ahead regarding Husky.]
Who is Husky in ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 10? Fans are convinced it’s this R&b singer
The Masked Singer Season 10 features Husky singing again for Harry Potter Night. So, who could Husky be? Fans think Ginuwine sings under the mask.
Elgin Baylor Lumpkin, aka Ginuwine, started his career in the ’90s as a member of Swing Mob. He then signed on to a record label as a solo artist in the mid-’90s, releasing multi-platinum and platinum-selling albums and singles...
- 10/26/2023
- by Lauren Weiler
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Back on the Strip is a comedy movie directed by Chris Spencer from a screenplay by Chris Daniel and Eric Spencer. The comedy movie follows the story of Merlin (Spence Moore II), who moves to Las Vegas in hopes of making it as a magician, but instead because of his good looks and great body gets recruited into the Black male strippers The Chocolate Chips. Back on the Strip also stars Wesley Snipes and Tiffany Haddish. So, if you loved Back on the Strip here are some similar movies you should watch next.
The Full Monty Credit – 20th Century Fox
Synopsis: Six unemployed men, inspired by a touring group of male strippers, decide they can make a small fortune by putting on a striptease show of their own-but with one small difference. They intend to go the “full monty” and strip completely naked! In this hilarious, heartfelt comedy, these six...
The Full Monty Credit – 20th Century Fox
Synopsis: Six unemployed men, inspired by a touring group of male strippers, decide they can make a small fortune by putting on a striptease show of their own-but with one small difference. They intend to go the “full monty” and strip completely naked! In this hilarious, heartfelt comedy, these six...
- 8/24/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
There have been funny male stripper movies (The Full Monty), auteur-directed male stripper movies (Magic Mike), Black male stripper movies (three Chocolate City films). Now comes Back on the Strip, yet another attempt to wrest humor and drama from the spectacle of scantily clad men gyrating to audiences of wildly appreciative women. The independent film receiving a wide release definitely leans toward the funnier end of the spectrum, with its overqualified cast including many formidable comedic talents. But despite some amusing moments, it never really takes off, burdened by a tiresome romantic subplot that periodically stops the movie dead in its tracks.
The story revolves around Merlin (Spence Moore II), whose name stems from his lifelong desire to pursue a career as a magician. His supportive single mother Verna (Tiffany Haddish), who narrates the proceedings, encourages him in his dreams and roots for him when he makes an appearance at a local talent contest.
The story revolves around Merlin (Spence Moore II), whose name stems from his lifelong desire to pursue a career as a magician. His supportive single mother Verna (Tiffany Haddish), who narrates the proceedings, encourages him in his dreams and roots for him when he makes an appearance at a local talent contest.
- 8/18/2023
- by Frank Scheck
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
And just like that, winter has come again. HBO Max’s list of new releases for August 2022 is highlighted by the return of the king. Or more accurately: the return of the queen … of the Seven Kingdoms.
Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon is set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max on Aug. 21, just over three years after Game of Thrones concluded in controversial fashion with “The Iron Throne.” This new series is a prequel, depicting the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons from George R.R. Martin’s lore. When dragon fights dragon, the realm will be torn asunder. But the viewer will certainly delight in all the Targaryen action.
Read more TV How House of the Dragon Is Approaching the Game of Thrones Ending Backlash By David Crow TV House of the Dragon: What Rickard Stark Means for the Game of Thrones Spinoff...
Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon is set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max on Aug. 21, just over three years after Game of Thrones concluded in controversial fashion with “The Iron Throne.” This new series is a prequel, depicting the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons from George R.R. Martin’s lore. When dragon fights dragon, the realm will be torn asunder. But the viewer will certainly delight in all the Targaryen action.
Read more TV How House of the Dragon Is Approaching the Game of Thrones Ending Backlash By David Crow TV House of the Dragon: What Rickard Stark Means for the Game of Thrones Spinoff...
- 8/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Will Packer’s movies have grossed more than $1 billion worldwide, with 10 films that opened at number one. However, “a lot of people think I just popped up with Will Packer Productions,” Packer said. “They don’t know about the grind years and years and years before that.”
Packer made his first film, “Chocolate City,” when he was an engineering undergrad at Florida A&m University in 1994. Scrappy indies led to direct-to-video “urban” features to low-budget genre titles like Beyonce’s fatal-attraction drama “Obsessed” (2009) and the Taraji P. Henson thriller “No Good Deed” (2014). The reviews were often unimpressive, but all were made for a price, all featured black casts, and all made money.
Today he leads his eponymous production company, with credits that include the “Ride Along” franchise as well as critically acclaimed titles like “Girls Trip,” “Straight Outta Compton,” and most recently “The Photograph” starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield.
Packer made his first film, “Chocolate City,” when he was an engineering undergrad at Florida A&m University in 1994. Scrappy indies led to direct-to-video “urban” features to low-budget genre titles like Beyonce’s fatal-attraction drama “Obsessed” (2009) and the Taraji P. Henson thriller “No Good Deed” (2014). The reviews were often unimpressive, but all were made for a price, all featured black casts, and all made money.
Today he leads his eponymous production company, with credits that include the “Ride Along” franchise as well as critically acclaimed titles like “Girls Trip,” “Straight Outta Compton,” and most recently “The Photograph” starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield.
- 3/10/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
“Flight Risk” is taking off with Great Point, which has boarded sales on the U.S.-produced thriller. The film follows a group of strangers who wake up with amnesia on a bullet-ridden plane. Luis Prieto, who helmed the remake of Nicolas Winding Refn’s “Pusher,” is attached to direct.
The action thriller is being produced by L.A.-based Automatic Media’s Ray Haboush (“The Last House on the Left”) and Robert Aaronson (“Chocolate City”). Great Point co-founders Robert Halmi and Jim Reeve will exec produce.
The story follows the strangers as they wake up on the plane, which is running on autopilot. They have no idea who they are, how they got there or who they can trust. “I was immediately hooked by the brilliant concept at the heart of this project, and I’m excited by the possibilities for an amazing cinematic experience,” Prieto said.
Producers Aaronson...
The action thriller is being produced by L.A.-based Automatic Media’s Ray Haboush (“The Last House on the Left”) and Robert Aaronson (“Chocolate City”). Great Point co-founders Robert Halmi and Jim Reeve will exec produce.
The story follows the strangers as they wake up on the plane, which is running on autopilot. They have no idea who they are, how they got there or who they can trust. “I was immediately hooked by the brilliant concept at the heart of this project, and I’m excited by the possibilities for an amazing cinematic experience,” Prieto said.
Producers Aaronson...
- 5/17/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Vivica A. Fox-starrer Kinky has been acquired by Patriot Releasing, part of the company’s plan to distribute 10 films a year that target African American women. Written and directed by Chocolate City helmer Jean Claude Lamarre, the film from Patriot Pictures will hit 300 screens October 12 and expand to 700 the following week.
The plot follows Dr. Joyce Richardson, a beautiful African American surgeon who begins a sexual journey with a billionaire investor. After a few months of dating, the couple begins exploring their most kinky sexual fantasies, leading them into a world of Bdsm and hardcore sexual exploration.
Dawn Richard (Danity Kane), Robert Ri’Chard (Coach Carter), Eurika Pratts (Black Magic) and Gary Dourdan (CSI) co-star.
Producers are Patriot CEO/chairman Michael Mendelsohn, Jessie LeVostre and Pratts.
Patriot recently acquired a Black female-lead comedy spec, Wedding Guest List, with an aim to start production next year. Also, the company just...
The plot follows Dr. Joyce Richardson, a beautiful African American surgeon who begins a sexual journey with a billionaire investor. After a few months of dating, the couple begins exploring their most kinky sexual fantasies, leading them into a world of Bdsm and hardcore sexual exploration.
Dawn Richard (Danity Kane), Robert Ri’Chard (Coach Carter), Eurika Pratts (Black Magic) and Gary Dourdan (CSI) co-star.
Producers are Patriot CEO/chairman Michael Mendelsohn, Jessie LeVostre and Pratts.
Patriot recently acquired a Black female-lead comedy spec, Wedding Guest List, with an aim to start production next year. Also, the company just...
- 7/5/2018
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
As part of hunky boy band 98 Degrees, Jeff Timmons grew accustomed to hordes of women going wild with ecstatic screams each time he went shirtless. “98 Degrees weren’t known as being incredible dancers -- we were the guys next door who were fit,” the now 44-year-old performer laughs. At 18, Channing Tatum also got a taste of serving as eye candy while working as a stripper in Florida. Model Tyson Beckford, 46, meanwhile, recalls walking past New York’s Chippendales club as a kid, thinking, I want to look like that someday. He has since become used to ogling eyes excitedly checking him out in shirtless ad campaigns.
While the thrill of physical adoration has undeniably helped the trio make a buck over the years, none of them could have imagined that years later they would help transform the male entertainment scene in the strip show-saturated city of Las Vegas. Tatum recently launched Magic Mike Live, capitalizing on the...
While the thrill of physical adoration has undeniably helped the trio make a buck over the years, none of them could have imagined that years later they would help transform the male entertainment scene in the strip show-saturated city of Las Vegas. Tatum recently launched Magic Mike Live, capitalizing on the...
- 7/19/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
Vivica A. Fox pissed off the director and producer who made her male stripper reality show possible -- Jean-Claude Lamarre is cutting ties with her after she said gay men aren't welcome at the strip shows. Jean-Claude put Vivica in his movie, "Chocolate City" ... which led to her spinning off 'Black Magic' into a TV show. You'll recall, she was promoting the show last week on "The Breakfast Club" when she strongly objected...
- 1/9/2017
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Vivica A. Fox has signed up to star in the indie feature, “Kinky,” from writer/director Jean Claude Lamarre (last year’s “Chocolate City”). Currently in pre-production, and set to begin filming in Los Angeles on September 15th, “Kinky” is described as a… Continue Reading →...
- 8/12/2016
- by shadowandact
- ShadowAndAct
Exclusive: Fresh off of Fox’s Independence Day: Resurgence, Vivica A. Fox has just signed on to star in the indie feature Kinky from Chocolate City writer/director Jean Claude Lamarre. The project is described as “a racy, African American sex drama, which is being positioned as counter programming to 50 Shades Darker.” The film is currently in pre-production and will roll in Los Angeles on September 15. The story is set in the affluent community of Buckhead, Atlanta and…...
- 8/11/2016
- Deadline
The Revenant is now out on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, and we’ve been provided with one Blu-ray copy to give away. Also: not long now “Dreadfuls”, Penny Dreadful Season 3 premieres on May 1st and to celebrate the show’s third season, Showtime has launched a fan art contest. Read on for more information on that as well as The Harvesters Kickstarter, the short film Scythe, and a trailer for Betrothed.
The Revenant Blu-ray Contest – Prize Details: (1) Winner will receive (1) Blu-ray copy of The Revenant.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “The Revenant Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on April 25th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States.
The Revenant Blu-ray Contest – Prize Details: (1) Winner will receive (1) Blu-ray copy of The Revenant.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “The Revenant Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on April 25th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States.
- 4/19/2016
- by Tamika Jones
- DailyDead
By Seth Metoyer
MoreHorror.com
Osiris Entertainment has snatched up distribution for Betrothed and plan a VOD release in July. Check out the official details below as well as the first look trailer.
From The Press Release
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre meets House of 1000 Corpses in a new sweat-inducing new horror jaunt from Jim Lane, director of Deadly Famous starring Mikayla Gibson, Bill Oberst Jr (Criminal Minds, Circus of the Dead), Trae Ireland (13/13/13), Omar Gooding (Barbershop), Reatha Grey (Chocolate City), Joey Bell, David Brown, Elizabeth Castillo, Jamie B.Cline, Adam Dunnells, and Bunny Gibson (Creepshow III).
A trip to the store turns into a surreal nightmare when a college student is kidnapped by a deranged, dysfunctional family. Now Audra West finds herself trapped in the middle of the desert, and betrothed to Adam, the youngest son of the murderous clan. As a determined detective conducts a frantic search,...
MoreHorror.com
Osiris Entertainment has snatched up distribution for Betrothed and plan a VOD release in July. Check out the official details below as well as the first look trailer.
From The Press Release
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre meets House of 1000 Corpses in a new sweat-inducing new horror jaunt from Jim Lane, director of Deadly Famous starring Mikayla Gibson, Bill Oberst Jr (Criminal Minds, Circus of the Dead), Trae Ireland (13/13/13), Omar Gooding (Barbershop), Reatha Grey (Chocolate City), Joey Bell, David Brown, Elizabeth Castillo, Jamie B.Cline, Adam Dunnells, and Bunny Gibson (Creepshow III).
A trip to the store turns into a surreal nightmare when a college student is kidnapped by a deranged, dysfunctional family. Now Audra West finds herself trapped in the middle of the desert, and betrothed to Adam, the youngest son of the murderous clan. As a determined detective conducts a frantic search,...
- 4/19/2016
- by admin
- MoreHorror
Osiris Entertainment have announced they have picked up Betrothed for distribution, with a VOD release targeted for July.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre meets House of 1000 Corpses in a new sweat-inducing new horror jaunt from Jim Lane, director of Deadly Famous. starring Mikayla Gibson, Bill Oberst Jr (Criminal Minds, Circus of the Dead), Trae Ireland (13/13/13), Omar Gooding (Barbershop), Reatha Grey (Chocolate City), Joey Bell, David Brown, Elizabeth Castillo, Jamie B.Cline, Adam Dunnells, and Bunny Gibson (Creepshow III).
A trip to the store turns into a surreal nightmare when a college student is kidnapped by a deranged, dysfunctional family. Now Audra West finds herself trapped in the middle of the desert, and betrothed to Adam, the youngest son of the murderous clan. As a determined detective conducts a frantic search, Audra realizes the only way to survive is to escape. But even if she could get away, almost two...
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre meets House of 1000 Corpses in a new sweat-inducing new horror jaunt from Jim Lane, director of Deadly Famous. starring Mikayla Gibson, Bill Oberst Jr (Criminal Minds, Circus of the Dead), Trae Ireland (13/13/13), Omar Gooding (Barbershop), Reatha Grey (Chocolate City), Joey Bell, David Brown, Elizabeth Castillo, Jamie B.Cline, Adam Dunnells, and Bunny Gibson (Creepshow III).
A trip to the store turns into a surreal nightmare when a college student is kidnapped by a deranged, dysfunctional family. Now Audra West finds herself trapped in the middle of the desert, and betrothed to Adam, the youngest son of the murderous clan. As a determined detective conducts a frantic search, Audra realizes the only way to survive is to escape. But even if she could get away, almost two...
- 4/15/2016
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Studio teams with YouTube stars on day-and-date launchLionsgate has picked up distribution rights from Collective Digital Studio to Natural Born Pranksters starring YouTube pranksters VitalyzdTV, Roman Atwood and Dennis Roady. Lionsgate will release the film day-and-date in theatres, via Est and VOD in early 2016.Momentum Pictures has acquired all North American rights from Ambi Distribution to the feature film All Roads Lead To Rome. Ella Lemhagen directed the rom-com that stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Raoul Bova and Paz Vega. Josh Appignanesi and Cindy Myers co-wrote the screenplay. All Roads Lead To Rome will open day-and-date theatrically and on digital in 2016.Patriot Pictures CEO Michael Mendelsohn is preparing to start production this month on comedy Chocolate City 2: Vegas Battle. Viacom’s Paramount and Bet acquired Chocolate City, Jean-Claude Lamarre will direct the sequel, described as being in the vein of the Magic Mike and Bring It On franchises. Mendelsohn produces and finances via his Patriot Pictures and Union...
- 11/7/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Today is National Chocolate Day and who better to celebrate the delicious day with than the mayor of "Chocolate City," Tyson Beckford. Indulge in the sexy shots of the human hot chocolate guaranteed to make Swiss Miss blush. Not only is he sweet ... he's clearly fat free. Read more...
- 10/28/2015
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
At a loss for what to watch this week? From new DVDs and Blu-rays, to what's streaming on Netflix, we've got you covered.
New Video on Demand, Rental Streaming, and Digital Only
"The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies"
The final chapter of Bilbo Baggins' "Hobbit" adventure is airing August 8 on HBO as part of its Saturday Night Movies. It'll be on HBO Now, the network's standalone streaming service, on the same day. So if you don't already have HBO as part of your cable package but want to watch the TV shows ("Game of Thrones," "True Detective," etc.) and movies, you can just order HBO Now to stream the content.
"Difficult People"
Julie Klausner and Billy Eichner star in this new Hulu Original series, which premieres August 5. Julie and Billy play more annoying and less successful versions of themselves -- aspiring comics living, working and struggling in NYC...
New Video on Demand, Rental Streaming, and Digital Only
"The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies"
The final chapter of Bilbo Baggins' "Hobbit" adventure is airing August 8 on HBO as part of its Saturday Night Movies. It'll be on HBO Now, the network's standalone streaming service, on the same day. So if you don't already have HBO as part of your cable package but want to watch the TV shows ("Game of Thrones," "True Detective," etc.) and movies, you can just order HBO Now to stream the content.
"Difficult People"
Julie Klausner and Billy Eichner star in this new Hulu Original series, which premieres August 5. Julie and Billy play more annoying and less successful versions of themselves -- aspiring comics living, working and struggling in NYC...
- 8/3/2015
- by Gina Carbone
- Moviefone
If you're still thirsty for more abs, more grinding, and more dollar bills flying through the air after seeing Magic Mike Xxl this Summer, you're in luck. Chocolate City is the latest addition to the male-stripper-movie genre and stars eternal hottie Tyson Beckford - seriously, is he genetically immune to aging? - Michael Jai White, Robert Ri'chard, and even "Pony" crooner Ginuwine himself. We're sharing some exclusive GIFs that capture a few of its most stripperific moments today before Chocolate City comes out on DVD tomorrow. No tipping required.
- 8/3/2015
- by Lindsay-Miller
- Popsugar.com
Chocolate City starring Tyson Beckford (Zoolander), DeRay Davis (21 Jump Street), Vivica A. Fox (Kill Bill: Vol 1; Vol 2), and Robert Ri’chard (Coach Carter), unapologetically rips off Channing Tatum’s (21 Jump Street) widely popular Magic Mike. Chocolate City Movie Review The story follows Michael McCoy (Ri’chard) as he struggles watching his mother Katherine (Fox) […]
The post Chocolate City DVD Review: A Rip Off We Can Forgive appeared first on uInterview.
The post Chocolate City DVD Review: A Rip Off We Can Forgive appeared first on uInterview.
- 7/28/2015
- by Anya Ferguson
- Uinterview
This review was originally published in Nathaniel's column at Towleroad...
So ballsy: Chocolate City, a black rip-off of Magic Mike, actually name checks Steven Soderbergh's Magic Mike (2012) twice -- once in its opening scene even! -- and names it lead character Mike. In one conversation its strippers even dismiss Magic Mike for being 'only a movie' as if they're authentic fantasy workers in a documentary.
Not ballsy enough: Chocolate City has zero actors as brave as Matthew McConaughey what with his g-string ass up to the camera writhing and no actors as nonchalantly nude as Channing Tatum doing that birthday suit bathroom strut. If you're aiming for an even cheaper riff on one of the great low budget success stories of recent cinema (Magic Mike grossed 24 times its meager budget globally; hits are generally lucky to quadruple their budgets) shouldn't you exploit what your mama gave you?
B movies...
So ballsy: Chocolate City, a black rip-off of Magic Mike, actually name checks Steven Soderbergh's Magic Mike (2012) twice -- once in its opening scene even! -- and names it lead character Mike. In one conversation its strippers even dismiss Magic Mike for being 'only a movie' as if they're authentic fantasy workers in a documentary.
Not ballsy enough: Chocolate City has zero actors as brave as Matthew McConaughey what with his g-string ass up to the camera writhing and no actors as nonchalantly nude as Channing Tatum doing that birthday suit bathroom strut. If you're aiming for an even cheaper riff on one of the great low budget success stories of recent cinema (Magic Mike grossed 24 times its meager budget globally; hits are generally lucky to quadruple their budgets) shouldn't you exploit what your mama gave you?
B movies...
- 5/25/2015
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
Starring Robert Ri’chard, Michael Jai White, Tyson Beckford and Eurika Pratts amongst others, Jean-Claude Lamarre's "Chocolate City," which will take viewers into the world of male strippers, who also happen to be black, now has an official release date of May 22 (this Friday), both in theaters and on iTunes the same day. "Chocolate City" follows Devin... a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets the owner of a male strip club who convinces him to give amateur night a whirl. Jai White plays the owner of the strip club, while Beckford is the club’s former star attraction, whose star is now fading, thanks to the...
- 5/20/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
In theaters and On Demand May 22, "Chocolate City" takes viewers into the world of black male strippers. Robert Ri'chard ("Coach Carter," "One on One") plays Michael, a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets a strip club owner that convinces him to give amateur night a try. We spoke with Ri'chard and Imani Hakim ("Everybody Hates Chris", "The Gabby Douglas Story"), who plays Michael's girlfriend Carmen, to talk about the movie and their transition from child acting to building their careers in adulthood. Imani Hakim on joining the "Chocolate City" cast: Ih: I'm always looking to do...
- 5/15/2015
- by Shadow And Act
- ShadowAndAct
Round-up: Image Entertainment has acquired all Us rights from Voltage Pictures to the thriller Return To Sender starring Rosamund Pike.
Nick Nolte, Shiloh Fernandez, Camryn Manheim and Rumer Willis round out the cast on the thriller about a small town nurse who builds up a relationship with the man who attacked her.
Holly Wiersma and Candice Abela produced and Gossett, J C Khoury and Logan Levy served as executive producers.
Fouad Mikati directed Return To Sender from a script by Patricia Beauchamp and Joe Gossett. Rlj Entertainment chief acquisitions officer Mark Ward negotiated the deal with Voltage and plans a 2015 release.
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Ron Judkins’ festival favourite and comedic drama Finding Neighbors starring Michael O’Keefe and Catherine Dent. Jon Gerrans negotiated rights with producers Judy Korin and Jennifer Young.
Multi-platform specialist Orion Releasing has picked up North America and MGM Latin America on Larry Gaye: Renegade Male Flight Attendant. [link...
Nick Nolte, Shiloh Fernandez, Camryn Manheim and Rumer Willis round out the cast on the thriller about a small town nurse who builds up a relationship with the man who attacked her.
Holly Wiersma and Candice Abela produced and Gossett, J C Khoury and Logan Levy served as executive producers.
Fouad Mikati directed Return To Sender from a script by Patricia Beauchamp and Joe Gossett. Rlj Entertainment chief acquisitions officer Mark Ward negotiated the deal with Voltage and plans a 2015 release.
Strand Releasing has acquired all North American rights to Ron Judkins’ festival favourite and comedic drama Finding Neighbors starring Michael O’Keefe and Catherine Dent. Jon Gerrans negotiated rights with producers Judy Korin and Jennifer Young.
Multi-platform specialist Orion Releasing has picked up North America and MGM Latin America on Larry Gaye: Renegade Male Flight Attendant. [link...
- 5/7/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
“Chocolate City,” the feature film starring Robert Ri’chard and Vivica A. Fox, will be distributed jointly by Paramount Home Media Distribution and Bet Networks, the two companies announced on Thursday. Under the first-of-its-kind agreement for the two Viacom units, Paramount holds the worldwide rights to the film and will handle distribution across all home entertainment and international television platforms, while Bet controls the worldwide television premiere rights. “We are excited to debut this fun and entertaining film across an array of platforms to reach the widest possible audience,” said Amy Reinhard, president of worldwide television distribution and home media acquisitions for Paramount Pictures.
- 5/7/2015
- by Joe Otterson
- The Wrap
Important Announcement: There is not only one movie about hot male strippers coming out this summer. We repeat: there is not just one movie about mostly naked, extremely attractive men bumping and grinding coming out soon. There. Are. Two. We are so embarrassed that we didn't know about this until now. But we forgive ourselves because the trailer for Chocolate City has been released and there is no use blaming ourselves for our insolence when there is footage like this to watch: Chocolate City, which comes out May 22, comes from director Jean-Claude La Marre, who reportedly said he jumped on the opportunity to make this film after seeing Magic Mike and noticing there was "one glaring omission,...
- 4/28/2015
- E! Online
Magic Mike was great for many reasons, one being that it finally acknowledged that women like to go to the movies and shamelessly lust after who's onscreen, too. (Thank you, again!) But it wasn't perfect, and had a severe lack of black male strippers working the pole. Luckily, we now have the trailer for Chocolate City, Jean-Claude La Marre's very necessary "black version" of Magic Mike. It stars Robert Ri'chard as a guy struggling to make ends meet with his mom (Vivica A. Fox), who does what anyone desperate for some fast cash would do: sign up for amateur night! Michael Jai White recruits him for his strip club (DJ-ed by Carmen Electra, sure), and it's there that "Sexy Chocolate" is born. Tyson Beckford's abs are also involved, and so is a Ginuwine cameo! Your move, Magic Mike Xxl.
- 4/28/2015
- by Dee Lockett
- Vulture
Starring Michael Jai White, Tyson Beckford, Romeo Miller and Eurika Pratts amongst others, Jean-Claude Lamarre's "Chocolate City," which will take viewers into the world of male strippers, who also happen to be black, now has an official release date of May 22, both in theaters and on iTunes the same day - although the specific cities in which the film will be released, aren't public info yet. Call it the black "Magic Mike" (see Daniel Simolke's piece on this blog on "Magic Mike’s" diversity problem, here), "Chocolate City" will follow, Devin... a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets the owner of a male...
- 4/24/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
This is Tyson Beckford at a benefit in NYC on Thursday. Tyson teased his upcoming stint with the Chippendales -- and since you weren't there, we're going to recreate the magic for you. That's right -- the model showed some skin. He took that crowd to Chocolate City ... return ticket not needed. Enjoy your visit! Read more...
- 4/17/2015
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
We bet there's no arguments from the ladies here!
Supermodel Tyson Beckford announced on Wednesday that he'll be Chippendales' next celebrity guest host, following in the footsteps of Sharknado star Ian Ziering and 98 Degrees member Jeff Timmons. Beckford will be showing off his famous physique from April 30th to May 24th at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
"I am really excited to join the Chippendales show in Las Vegas," Beckford tells People. "These guys provide a flirty and sexy yet playful experience for women, and being a part of that party each night just seems like fun."
Photos: Hollywood's Sexiest Shirtless Men
The 44-year-old model/actor is no stranger to showing some skin, starring in the highly anticipated Chocolate City -- which tells the story of a college student who turns to stripping in order to pay the bills -- out March 19.
Just don't compare it to Magic Mike.
"I hate when...
Supermodel Tyson Beckford announced on Wednesday that he'll be Chippendales' next celebrity guest host, following in the footsteps of Sharknado star Ian Ziering and 98 Degrees member Jeff Timmons. Beckford will be showing off his famous physique from April 30th to May 24th at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
"I am really excited to join the Chippendales show in Las Vegas," Beckford tells People. "These guys provide a flirty and sexy yet playful experience for women, and being a part of that party each night just seems like fun."
Photos: Hollywood's Sexiest Shirtless Men
The 44-year-old model/actor is no stranger to showing some skin, starring in the highly anticipated Chocolate City -- which tells the story of a college student who turns to stripping in order to pay the bills -- out March 19.
Just don't compare it to Magic Mike.
"I hate when...
- 3/11/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
This is actually a little old, but I was only just alerted to it, so I'm publishing it now. I assume many of you likely haven't seen it, so here it is. Starring Michael Jai White, Tyson Beckford, Romeo Miller and Eurika Pratts amongst others, here's a behind-the-scenes look at Jean-Claude Lamarre's "Chocolate City," which will take viewers into the world of male strippers, who also happen to be black. Call it the black "Magic Mike" (see Daniel Simolke's piece on this blog on "Magic Mike’s" diversity problem, here). "Chocolate City" will follow, Devin... a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets the owner of a...
- 3/2/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
View Photo Gallery
Thanks to social media and the selfie craze, there have been plenty of butts, boobs, and abs to heat up these chilly December days. Kendall and Kylie Jenner landed themselves a spot on Santa’s naughty list with their racy photos, while Tyson Beckford gave us a peak at Chocolate City (something we all had on our Christmas lists).
Nicki Minaj, Jessie James Decker, and Amber Rose gave us a look at their bountiful backsides, while Adrienne Bailon proved she has cleavage for days. Gotta love the Internet.
Hop into the gallery to see pictures from this month that were almost too hot to post. But first, watch Kris Jenner give her best selfie tips below, which she most likely got from her famous daughters.
[Photo Credit: @chaneliman]...
Thanks to social media and the selfie craze, there have been plenty of butts, boobs, and abs to heat up these chilly December days. Kendall and Kylie Jenner landed themselves a spot on Santa’s naughty list with their racy photos, while Tyson Beckford gave us a peak at Chocolate City (something we all had on our Christmas lists).
Nicki Minaj, Jessie James Decker, and Amber Rose gave us a look at their bountiful backsides, while Adrienne Bailon proved she has cleavage for days. Gotta love the Internet.
Hop into the gallery to see pictures from this month that were almost too hot to post. But first, watch Kris Jenner give her best selfie tips below, which she most likely got from her famous daughters.
[Photo Credit: @chaneliman]...
- 12/31/2014
- by Taylor Ferber
- TheFabLife - Movies
View Photo Gallery
Thanks to social media and the selfie craze, there have been plenty of butts, boobs, and abs to heat up these chilly December days. Kendall and Kylie Jenner landed themselves a spot on Santa’s naughty list with their racy photos, while Tyson Beckford gave us a peak at Chocolate City (something we all had on our Christmas lists).
Nicki Minaj, Jessie James Decker, and Amber Rose gave us a look at their bountiful backsides, while Adrienne Bailon proved she has cleavage for days. Gotta love the Internet.
Hop into the gallery to see pictures from this month that were almost too hot to post. But first, watch Kris Jenner give her best selfie tips below, which she most likely got from her famous daughters.
[Photo Credit: @chaneliman]...
Thanks to social media and the selfie craze, there have been plenty of butts, boobs, and abs to heat up these chilly December days. Kendall and Kylie Jenner landed themselves a spot on Santa’s naughty list with their racy photos, while Tyson Beckford gave us a peak at Chocolate City (something we all had on our Christmas lists).
Nicki Minaj, Jessie James Decker, and Amber Rose gave us a look at their bountiful backsides, while Adrienne Bailon proved she has cleavage for days. Gotta love the Internet.
Hop into the gallery to see pictures from this month that were almost too hot to post. But first, watch Kris Jenner give her best selfie tips below, which she most likely got from her famous daughters.
[Photo Credit: @chaneliman]...
- 12/31/2014
- by Taylor Ferber
- VH1.com
Following the unexpected success of Magic Mike, the all-male stripper film starring Channing Tatum and Joe Mangainello, Hollywood started production on an urban version called Chocolate City.
Citing a “glaring omission” of any people of color, director Jean-Claude La Marre pushed forward with a new film starring former model Tyson Beckford and Michael Jai White.
But that’s where any and all comparisons should stop.
“I hate when people use that reference, because it’s totally about a different kind of experience,” Beckford tells HIV Plus magazine of the upcoming film, which hits theaters on March 19, 2015. “Black strip clubs and white strip clubs are totally different.”
Beckford also describes the strip club experience as “more rhythm-driven” – something we hope to see more of given that the Chocolate City also stars Ginuwine as a character named Pharoah. (His hit single, “Pony,” was featured in Magic Mike during a showcase dance number by Tatum.)
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[link...
Citing a “glaring omission” of any people of color, director Jean-Claude La Marre pushed forward with a new film starring former model Tyson Beckford and Michael Jai White.
But that’s where any and all comparisons should stop.
“I hate when people use that reference, because it’s totally about a different kind of experience,” Beckford tells HIV Plus magazine of the upcoming film, which hits theaters on March 19, 2015. “Black strip clubs and white strip clubs are totally different.”
Beckford also describes the strip club experience as “more rhythm-driven” – something we hope to see more of given that the Chocolate City also stars Ginuwine as a character named Pharoah. (His hit single, “Pony,” was featured in Magic Mike during a showcase dance number by Tatum.)
[link...
- 12/11/2014
- Entertainment Tonight
Starring Michael Jai White, Tyson Beckford, Romeo Miller and Eurika Pratts amongst others, here's your first look at Jean-Claude Lamarre's "Chocolate City," which will take viewers into the world of male strippers, who also happen to be black. Call it the black "Magic Mike" (see Daniel Simolke's piece on this blog on Magic Mike’s diversity problem, published a year ago here). "Chocolate City" will follow, Devin... a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets the owner of a male strip club who convinces him to give amateur night a whirl. Gotta pay the bills somehow, right? It certainly won't be the...
- 10/29/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Well, this is awkward ... Matt Barnes cracking a marriage joke directed at his wife just weeks before they split up -- but it was all scripted for a movie scene they were doing together ... and TMZ Sports has the footage. Just a few months ago, Matt and Gloria Govan got together to film a cameo in the upcoming movie "Chocolate City" ... all about the life of a black male exotic dancer. During the scene, Matt...
- 10/15/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Tyson Beckford is human hot chocolate.We got hold of this video ... a scene from his "Chocolate City" movie that's being filmed right now -- and it's just ridiculous -- who doesn't want to f*** him?We could go on and on describing the video, but what's the point? It's Tyson Beckford stripping and grinding. Just watch it. Ok? Read more...
- 8/24/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
The Longest Ride
Jack Huston ("Boardwalk Empire") has been set to star in George Tillman's film adaptation of the Nicholas Sparks tale "The Longest Ride" at Fox 2000.
Huston will play the young Ira in a tale that brings together two intertwining love stories - an elderly couple reminiscing about life, and the blossoming romance of a young art history major and a handsome bull rider (Huston). [Source: Deadline]
Chocolate City
Rapper and actor Romeo Miller (aka. Lil' Romeo) will join Michael Jai White and Tyson Beckford in Jean Claude Lamarre's urban stripper drama "Chocolate City". Filming begins in Los Angeles at the end of June.
Miller will star a young college student who is lured into the world of male exotic dancing to pay the bills. Eurika Pratts ("Basketball Girlfriends") has also been cast as his girlfriend Carmen, the pair's relationship strained by his new career. [Source: Deadline]
The Woman in Gold
Jonathan Pryce...
Jack Huston ("Boardwalk Empire") has been set to star in George Tillman's film adaptation of the Nicholas Sparks tale "The Longest Ride" at Fox 2000.
Huston will play the young Ira in a tale that brings together two intertwining love stories - an elderly couple reminiscing about life, and the blossoming romance of a young art history major and a handsome bull rider (Huston). [Source: Deadline]
Chocolate City
Rapper and actor Romeo Miller (aka. Lil' Romeo) will join Michael Jai White and Tyson Beckford in Jean Claude Lamarre's urban stripper drama "Chocolate City". Filming begins in Los Angeles at the end of June.
Miller will star a young college student who is lured into the world of male exotic dancing to pay the bills. Eurika Pratts ("Basketball Girlfriends") has also been cast as his girlfriend Carmen, the pair's relationship strained by his new career. [Source: Deadline]
The Woman in Gold
Jonathan Pryce...
- 5/30/2014
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Romeo Miller and Eurika Pratts have joined Michael Jai White and Tyson Beckford in Jean-Claude Lamarre's Chocolate City, which will take viewers into the world of male strippers, who also happen to be black. Call it the black Magic Mike (see Daniel Simolke's piece on this blog on Magic Mike’s diversity problem, published a year ago Here)... Chocolate City will follow, Devin... ... a young college student struggling to make ends meet who meets the owner of a male strip club who convinces him to give amateur night a whirl. Gotta pay the bills somehow, right? It certainly won't be the first time we've heard a...
- 5/30/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Rush Limbaugh breaks out “tranny,” Louis Tomlinson under fire for gay slur, Hedwig and the Angry Inch cast recording due in July
If you’ve got some time, I highly recommend heading over to Eaddy Mays’ Tumblr post about shipping. She asked followers about canon vs fanon, the dialog and responsibilities between fandom and creators, and expectations. She collected a mountain of responses, published them, and added her perspective. It covered Sterek vs. Dyler, queerbaiting, using fanon ships to promote a show, differences in fandoms like Supernatural, Teen Wolf, and Johnlock, and overall was really more thoughtful than I could ever do justice. But it’s wonderful seeing an actress listening and responding.
I honestly did watch the video of the One Direction boys smoking pot. Big deal. So I had missed that Louis made a racial slur and used “gay” in a derogatory fashion. Fans are now demanding an apology.
If you’ve got some time, I highly recommend heading over to Eaddy Mays’ Tumblr post about shipping. She asked followers about canon vs fanon, the dialog and responsibilities between fandom and creators, and expectations. She collected a mountain of responses, published them, and added her perspective. It covered Sterek vs. Dyler, queerbaiting, using fanon ships to promote a show, differences in fandoms like Supernatural, Teen Wolf, and Johnlock, and overall was really more thoughtful than I could ever do justice. But it’s wonderful seeing an actress listening and responding.
I honestly did watch the video of the One Direction boys smoking pot. Big deal. So I had missed that Louis made a racial slur and used “gay” in a derogatory fashion. Fans are now demanding an apology.
- 5/30/2014
- by Ed Kennedy
- The Backlot
Tyson Beckford to strip in Chocolate City, Jonah Hill owes Channing Tatum a penis lick, Chris Colfer takes Cooper for a walk
Because we can never have enough movies about male strippers, I applaud Michael Jai White and Tyson Beckford teaming up for Chocolate City. Beckford will play the star attraction of a strip club who recruits struggling college student White into the world of urban stripping as he deals with his own aging and the attention going to the younger guys.
The Liberty Counsel, the political arm of Liberty University, has filed a brief in support of Michigan’s marriage amendment, and it cites many outdated concepts and lies about the gay community, including that we’re disease ridden vermin who will drive up the costs of healthcare for the entire state. “The personal, social and financial costs of these homosexual-specific health problems concern not just those who engage in homosexual activity,...
Because we can never have enough movies about male strippers, I applaud Michael Jai White and Tyson Beckford teaming up for Chocolate City. Beckford will play the star attraction of a strip club who recruits struggling college student White into the world of urban stripping as he deals with his own aging and the attention going to the younger guys.
The Liberty Counsel, the political arm of Liberty University, has filed a brief in support of Michigan’s marriage amendment, and it cites many outdated concepts and lies about the gay community, including that we’re disease ridden vermin who will drive up the costs of healthcare for the entire state. “The personal, social and financial costs of these homosexual-specific health problems concern not just those who engage in homosexual activity,...
- 5/21/2014
- by Ed Kennedy
- The Backlot
• You’ve met Magic Mike. Now pay a visit to Chocolate City. Tyson Beckford (Into the Blue) and Michael Jai White (The Dark Knight) are in talks for the male stripper movie (it’s becoming its own genre!) written and directed by Jean-Claude La Marre (Gang of Roses). The film is about a college student who gets pulled into the world of male stripping by a club owner (White) and the veteran dancer (Beckford) who worries the young guns are stealing his spotlight. [Deadline]
• Just a day after Juliette Lewis was confirmed for a mystery role in the upcoming Jem and the Holograms live-action movie,...
• Just a day after Juliette Lewis was confirmed for a mystery role in the upcoming Jem and the Holograms live-action movie,...
- 5/21/2014
- by Katie Atkinson
- EW - Inside Movies
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