Filmmaker Sam Pollard, one of the most prolific and important forces in contemporary documentary, will be honored by Black Public Media at its upcoming PitchBlack Awards in New York.
Pollard — who directed or co-directed four films and docuseries this year alone, including The League and Bill Russell: Legend — will receive the Bpm Trailblazer Award in a ceremony on April 25. The event is set to take place at the Stanley H. Kantor Penthouse of Manhattan’s Lincoln Center, capping the latest edition of Bpm’s PitchBLACK Forum, described as “the largest pitch competition of its kind in the United States for independent filmmakers and creative technologists who create Black content.”
“A multiple Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning producer-director-editor, Pollard is known for his work on a plethora of important works including: Eyes On The Prize, Maynard, MLK/FBI, Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power, and Mr. Soul!,” a release noted.
Pollard — who directed or co-directed four films and docuseries this year alone, including The League and Bill Russell: Legend — will receive the Bpm Trailblazer Award in a ceremony on April 25. The event is set to take place at the Stanley H. Kantor Penthouse of Manhattan’s Lincoln Center, capping the latest edition of Bpm’s PitchBLACK Forum, described as “the largest pitch competition of its kind in the United States for independent filmmakers and creative technologists who create Black content.”
“A multiple Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning producer-director-editor, Pollard is known for his work on a plethora of important works including: Eyes On The Prize, Maynard, MLK/FBI, Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power, and Mr. Soul!,” a release noted.
- 12/23/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Lucy J. Mukerjee has joined Stanley Nelson and Marcia Smith’s media company Firelight Media, geared toward nonfiction cinema by and about communities of color, as the new director of its flagship Documentary Lab.
An 18-month fellowship that provides emerging filmmakers of color with customized mentorship from prominent leaders in the documentary world, as well as funding, professional development workshops and networking opportunities, the Documentary Lab has thus far helped to advance the careers of over 100 filmmakers, including Dawn Porter, Yoruba Richen and Peter Nicks.
Mukerjee succeeds Sabaah Folayan, who for the past year has served as the Lab’s Interim Director. She comes to Firelight Media with over 20 years of experience producing films, programming festivals, and overseeing artist development programs. Her previous roles include Senior Programmer at Tribeca Festival, Director of Programming at Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival, Outfest Fusion Qtbipoc Festival and NewFest New York’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival,...
An 18-month fellowship that provides emerging filmmakers of color with customized mentorship from prominent leaders in the documentary world, as well as funding, professional development workshops and networking opportunities, the Documentary Lab has thus far helped to advance the careers of over 100 filmmakers, including Dawn Porter, Yoruba Richen and Peter Nicks.
Mukerjee succeeds Sabaah Folayan, who for the past year has served as the Lab’s Interim Director. She comes to Firelight Media with over 20 years of experience producing films, programming festivals, and overseeing artist development programs. Her previous roles include Senior Programmer at Tribeca Festival, Director of Programming at Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival, Outfest Fusion Qtbipoc Festival and NewFest New York’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival,...
- 5/12/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Christophe Honoré with Anne-Katrin Titze at Rendez-Vous with French Cinema in New York Photo: Anne-Katrin Titze
Christophe Honoré (Winter Boy), Florent Gouëlou (Three Nights A Week), Vuk Lungulov-Klotz (Mutt), and Georden West (Playland), will participate in a Rendez-Vous with French Cinema Free Talk: Queer Identities On Screen, moderated by filmmaker and Cuny professor Yoruba Richen (director of The Green Book: Guide to Freedom) on Friday, March 10 at 4:00pm inside the Amphitheater of the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center.
Autofiction at Work: An Intimate Portrait of Christophe Honoré at Metrograph
Christophe is also presenting Dans Paris and Sorry Angel, Alain Resnais’s Providence, Catherine Breillat’s 36 Fillette, and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester By The Sea in Autofiction at Work: An Intimate Portrait of Christophe Honoré at Metrograph this weekend, curated by Uptown Flicks Adeline Monzier with the support of Unifrance and Villa Albertine.
“As a queer auteur and a...
Christophe Honoré (Winter Boy), Florent Gouëlou (Three Nights A Week), Vuk Lungulov-Klotz (Mutt), and Georden West (Playland), will participate in a Rendez-Vous with French Cinema Free Talk: Queer Identities On Screen, moderated by filmmaker and Cuny professor Yoruba Richen (director of The Green Book: Guide to Freedom) on Friday, March 10 at 4:00pm inside the Amphitheater of the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center.
Autofiction at Work: An Intimate Portrait of Christophe Honoré at Metrograph
Christophe is also presenting Dans Paris and Sorry Angel, Alain Resnais’s Providence, Catherine Breillat’s 36 Fillette, and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester By The Sea in Autofiction at Work: An Intimate Portrait of Christophe Honoré at Metrograph this weekend, curated by Uptown Flicks Adeline Monzier with the support of Unifrance and Villa Albertine.
“As a queer auteur and a...
- 3/8/2023
- by Anne-Katrin Titze
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
(Welcome to ...And More, our no-frills, zero B.S. guide to when and where you can watch upcoming movies and shows, and everything else you could possibly stand to know.)
Known in history as the woman who once refused to give up her bus seat to a white man, Rosa Parks is the mother of the civil rights movement. However, her legacy as an activist extends beyond that one moment that sparked a nationwide movement. Parks led a long life dedicated to the future she for, and an upcoming film will chronicle her eventful life.
"The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks," a documentary based on the best-selling biography by Jeanne Theoharis, takes a closer look at the life and achievements of Parks. In the official trailer, we get a sneak peek at the interviews and archival footage that illuminate her extensive battle against racial injustice and inequality. But when can you see it?...
Known in history as the woman who once refused to give up her bus seat to a white man, Rosa Parks is the mother of the civil rights movement. However, her legacy as an activist extends beyond that one moment that sparked a nationwide movement. Parks led a long life dedicated to the future she for, and an upcoming film will chronicle her eventful life.
"The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks," a documentary based on the best-selling biography by Jeanne Theoharis, takes a closer look at the life and achievements of Parks. In the official trailer, we get a sneak peek at the interviews and archival footage that illuminate her extensive battle against racial injustice and inequality. But when can you see it?...
- 10/12/2022
- by Marcos Melendez
- Slash Film
Jeremy Strong as Irving Graff and Anne Hathaway as Esther Graff in ‘Armageddon Time’ (Photo Courtesy of Focus Features)
Writer/director James Gray’s Armageddon Time will open the 2022 San Diego International Film Festival on October 19th and writer/director Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light has been selected as the festival’s closing night film. The 21st annual SDiFF’s lineup will also include the San Diego premiere of Taurus as well as screenings of Close, Good Night Oppy, and The Banshees of Inisherin.
This year’s festival will honor Taurus star Colson Baker (aka Machine Gun Kelly) with the Spotlight Award. Baker, who made his acting debut in the Showtime series Roadies, will be presented with the honor following a special Spotlight Screening of Taurus from writer/director Tim Sutton on October 23rd.
“This year, our slate has been curated from over 3000 film submissions from 82 countries with compelling Social...
Writer/director James Gray’s Armageddon Time will open the 2022 San Diego International Film Festival on October 19th and writer/director Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light has been selected as the festival’s closing night film. The 21st annual SDiFF’s lineup will also include the San Diego premiere of Taurus as well as screenings of Close, Good Night Oppy, and The Banshees of Inisherin.
This year’s festival will honor Taurus star Colson Baker (aka Machine Gun Kelly) with the Spotlight Award. Baker, who made his acting debut in the Showtime series Roadies, will be presented with the honor following a special Spotlight Screening of Taurus from writer/director Tim Sutton on October 23rd.
“This year, our slate has been curated from over 3000 film submissions from 82 countries with compelling Social...
- 9/7/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
On July 16, the Omaha, Nebraska based non-profit Film Streams is hosting a local celebration for See Change, the organization’s initiative that strives for gender parity in their programming. The fundraiser will spotlight four women documentary filmmakers, featuring a discussion moderated by Film Streams’ artistic director, Dr. Diana Martinez. The four visiting filmmakers are Ramona Díaz (A Thousand Cuts), Grace Lee (American Revolutionary), Yoruba Richen (The New Black) and Lucy Walker (Waste Land). The event will be held at Film Streams’ Dundee Theater, the longest-surviving cinema in Omaha. Film Streams Executive Director Deirdre Haj, who took on the title last […]
The post Film Streams See Change Fundraiser Spotlights Women Documentary Filmmakers first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post Film Streams See Change Fundraiser Spotlights Women Documentary Filmmakers first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 7/13/2022
- by Natalia Keogan
- Filmmaker Magazine-Director Interviews
On July 16, the Omaha, Nebraska based non-profit Film Streams is hosting a local celebration for See Change, the organization’s initiative that strives for gender parity in their programming. The fundraiser will spotlight four women documentary filmmakers, featuring a discussion moderated by Film Streams’ artistic director, Dr. Diana Martinez. The four visiting filmmakers are Ramona Díaz (A Thousand Cuts), Grace Lee (American Revolutionary), Yoruba Richen (The New Black) and Lucy Walker (Waste Land). The event will be held at Film Streams’ Dundee Theater, the longest-surviving cinema in Omaha. Film Streams Executive Director Deirdre Haj, who took on the title last […]
The post Film Streams See Change Fundraiser Spotlights Women Documentary Filmmakers first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post Film Streams See Change Fundraiser Spotlights Women Documentary Filmmakers first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 7/13/2022
- by Natalia Keogan
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
Exclusive: Peacock has acquired the civil rights documentary Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power ahead of its world premiere next week at the Tribeca Festival. A streaming release date will be announced soon for the pic, which is presented by Participant, a Multitude Films production, in association with The Atlantic and will bow on the streamer as a Peacock Original.
Told through first-person testimony and archival footage, the film chronicles a group of courageous, young Black activists who put their lives on the line not just to secure the right to vote, but for Black Power in Lowndes County, Al. It was inspired by Vann R. Newkirk II’s research and writing, as published in The Atlantic. He also served as consulting producer on the film, which premieres Tuesday in Tribeca’s Spotlight Documentary section.
“What stood out to us about the history of Lowndes County’s role...
Told through first-person testimony and archival footage, the film chronicles a group of courageous, young Black activists who put their lives on the line not just to secure the right to vote, but for Black Power in Lowndes County, Al. It was inspired by Vann R. Newkirk II’s research and writing, as published in The Atlantic. He also served as consulting producer on the film, which premieres Tuesday in Tribeca’s Spotlight Documentary section.
“What stood out to us about the history of Lowndes County’s role...
- 6/10/2022
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with host, performer set: Holly Robinson Peete was tapped to host the 47th annual Gracie Awards at its in-person ceremony May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Singer-songwriter Christina Perri will perform during the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s ceremony, which honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, TV, cable and interactive media.
Elle Fanning (The Great), Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets), Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers) and Tamron Hall (Tamron Hall) are this year’s honores, with shows including Maid (Warner Bros. Television) and Pose (FX) also being recognized.
Previously, April 22: The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation today announced the winners of the 47th Annual Gracie Awards, honoring exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, cable and interactive media.
Elle Fanning (The Great), Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets), Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers) and Tamron...
Elle Fanning (The Great), Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets), Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers) and Tamron Hall (Tamron Hall) are this year’s honores, with shows including Maid (Warner Bros. Television) and Pose (FX) also being recognized.
Previously, April 22: The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation today announced the winners of the 47th Annual Gracie Awards, honoring exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, cable and interactive media.
Elle Fanning (The Great), Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick), Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets), Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers) and Tamron...
- 5/4/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announced the winners of the 47th annual Gracie Awards, which will honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media. This year’s winners include Melissa McCarthy, Tamron Hall, Kelly Clarkson, Melanie Lynskey, Elle Fanning, Kaitlyn Dever, Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb.
The ceremony will return in-person on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, and will also honor the best of entertainment and news programming highlighting women, including “60 Minutes,” “NBC Nightly News” and “Pose.” Local and student winners will be honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 22 in New York City.
“Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women,” said Awmf president Becky Brooks. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh,...
The ceremony will return in-person on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, and will also honor the best of entertainment and news programming highlighting women, including “60 Minutes,” “NBC Nightly News” and “Pose.” Local and student winners will be honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 22 in New York City.
“Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women,” said Awmf president Becky Brooks. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh,...
- 4/13/2022
- by Sasha Urban
- Variety Film + TV
Jennifer Hudson was the big winner Saturday night at the 53rd NAACP Image Awards. The “Respect” star took home trophies for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture and Entertainer of the Year.
Will Smith won for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for his portrayal of Richard Williams, father of tennis greats Venus and Serena Williams in “King Richard.” The Netflix Western “The Harder They Fall” was named Outstanding Motion Picture.
“Black-ish” star — and winner for this year’s Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series — Anthony Anderson hosted Saturday night’s mostly virtual show from Los Angeles.
HBO’s “Insecure” was named Outstanding Comedy Series, with its star Issa Rae winning for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series. “This Is Us” star Sterling K. Brown and “9-1-1” star Angela Bassett won for outstanding actor and actress in a drama, respectively.
Samuel L. Jackson was honored with the Chairman Award, recognizing...
Will Smith won for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for his portrayal of Richard Williams, father of tennis greats Venus and Serena Williams in “King Richard.” The Netflix Western “The Harder They Fall” was named Outstanding Motion Picture.
“Black-ish” star — and winner for this year’s Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series — Anthony Anderson hosted Saturday night’s mostly virtual show from Los Angeles.
HBO’s “Insecure” was named Outstanding Comedy Series, with its star Issa Rae winning for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series. “This Is Us” star Sterling K. Brown and “9-1-1” star Angela Bassett won for outstanding actor and actress in a drama, respectively.
Samuel L. Jackson was honored with the Chairman Award, recognizing...
- 2/27/2022
- by Rosemary Rossi
- The Wrap
The NAACP Image Awards honored Issa Rae, Barry Jenkins and others in the writing, directing and short-form categories on the second night of the ceremonies.
Rae picked up the Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series prize for the series finale of “Insecure” titled “Everything’s Gonna Be, Okay?,” which she also starred in and executive produced.
Jenkins won Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series for “The Underground Railroad,” the miniseries adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel.
Among other winners Tuesday night, “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” won Outstanding Short Form Series – Comedy or Drama for the series “Between the Scenes.”
Oscar-winning drama “Judas and the Black Messiah” picked up twin nods for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Directing (King) in a Motion Picture.
The non-televised honors known as the NAACP Image Awards Virtual Experience are hosted by actor and comedian Affion Crockett this year, and announced over five nights,...
Rae picked up the Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series prize for the series finale of “Insecure” titled “Everything’s Gonna Be, Okay?,” which she also starred in and executive produced.
Jenkins won Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series for “The Underground Railroad,” the miniseries adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel.
Among other winners Tuesday night, “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” won Outstanding Short Form Series – Comedy or Drama for the series “Between the Scenes.”
Oscar-winning drama “Judas and the Black Messiah” picked up twin nods for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Directing (King) in a Motion Picture.
The non-televised honors known as the NAACP Image Awards Virtual Experience are hosted by actor and comedian Affion Crockett this year, and announced over five nights,...
- 2/23/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
“The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks” is set to be framed in a new documentary on Peacock, from award-winning directors Yoruba Richen and Johanna Hamilton and produced by Emmy Award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien’s So’B Productions.
Currently in production, the project marks the first ever full-length documentary about the civil right icon, which expands Parks’ story beyond her historic bus boycott in Montgomery, Ala. Using a wealth of video footage and exclusive audio of Parks, plus interviews with activists, celebrities and Parks’ own family, the film aims to “reveal the intent behind her activism, her radical politics and the true extent of her courage.” The film also paints a picture of how Parks’ legacy lives on in the continued fight for justice and equality.
“I’m thrilled to bolster Peacock’s growing documentary slate with premium content like the story of Rosa Parks,” Rachel Smith, NBC Universal Streaming & Cable...
Currently in production, the project marks the first ever full-length documentary about the civil right icon, which expands Parks’ story beyond her historic bus boycott in Montgomery, Ala. Using a wealth of video footage and exclusive audio of Parks, plus interviews with activists, celebrities and Parks’ own family, the film aims to “reveal the intent behind her activism, her radical politics and the true extent of her courage.” The film also paints a picture of how Parks’ legacy lives on in the continued fight for justice and equality.
“I’m thrilled to bolster Peacock’s growing documentary slate with premium content like the story of Rosa Parks,” Rachel Smith, NBC Universal Streaming & Cable...
- 11/10/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Peacock is to launch a feature documentary about civil rights icon Rosa Parks.
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks, which is thought to be the first ever feature doc about Parks, is currently in production from Soledad O’Brien’s So’B Productions.
The film, which will premiere in 2022, is directed by Yoruba Richen (The Green Book: Guide to Freedom) and Johanna Hamilton (1971) and exec produced by O’Brien.
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks tells the unexpected story of Parks and her life beyond the historic bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama. The documentary reveals the intent behind her activism, her radical politics and the true extent of her courage. It features a wealth of video footage, exclusive audio of Parks and a wide range of interview subjects including activists, celebrities and Rosa Parks’ own family.
The doc is based on New York Times bestseller The Rebellious Life of Mrs.
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks, which is thought to be the first ever feature doc about Parks, is currently in production from Soledad O’Brien’s So’B Productions.
The film, which will premiere in 2022, is directed by Yoruba Richen (The Green Book: Guide to Freedom) and Johanna Hamilton (1971) and exec produced by O’Brien.
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks tells the unexpected story of Parks and her life beyond the historic bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama. The documentary reveals the intent behind her activism, her radical politics and the true extent of her courage. It features a wealth of video footage, exclusive audio of Parks and a wide range of interview subjects including activists, celebrities and Rosa Parks’ own family.
The doc is based on New York Times bestseller The Rebellious Life of Mrs.
- 11/10/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
When PBS launched “Frontline” in 1983, the docuseries was considered the “the last best hope for broadcast documentaries.” While these days the longform investigative-journalism series is certainly not the only hope for docus looking for a home on the small screen, the program remains one of the cornerstones of not only PBS’ documentary efforts, but also of the nonfiction industry.
Despite a rapidly shifting landscape that introduced big money streaming services like Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, “Frontline,” produced by Wgbh Boston, has managed to maintain its prominence in the industry over the last decade. Thus far, the program has garnered 100 Emmys and two Oscar nominations. “Frontline’s” success over the last seven years is due in large part to Raney Aronson-Rath, who joined “Frontline” in 2007 as a senior producer. She was named deputy executive producer in 2012, and then became executive producer in 2015. A journalist at ABC News and the Wall Street Journal before joining “Frontline,...
Despite a rapidly shifting landscape that introduced big money streaming services like Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, “Frontline,” produced by Wgbh Boston, has managed to maintain its prominence in the industry over the last decade. Thus far, the program has garnered 100 Emmys and two Oscar nominations. “Frontline’s” success over the last seven years is due in large part to Raney Aronson-Rath, who joined “Frontline” in 2007 as a senior producer. She was named deputy executive producer in 2012, and then became executive producer in 2015. A journalist at ABC News and the Wall Street Journal before joining “Frontline,...
- 11/1/2021
- by Addie Morfoot
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: HBO announced the upcoming documentary Black And Missing from Emmy Award winners Geeta Gandbhir and Soledad O’Brien that will focus on Black missing persons cases. Black And Missing will premiere on HBO with two back-to-back episodes on Nov. 23 followed by the release of the remaining pair of episodes on Nov. 24. All episodes will be available to stream after airing on HBO Max.
The four-parter, which was three years in the making, follows Black and Missing Foundation founders Derrica and Natalie Wilson as they dive into specific cases and break down how systemic behaviors and attitudes stem from centuries of deeply rooted racism. The docuseries also exposes the stark disparity in the media coverage of white and black missing persons. By keeping these stories and the missing in the news media, Derrica and Natalie put increased pressure on police departments to keep cases open and active.
The docuseries will feature...
The four-parter, which was three years in the making, follows Black and Missing Foundation founders Derrica and Natalie Wilson as they dive into specific cases and break down how systemic behaviors and attitudes stem from centuries of deeply rooted racism. The docuseries also exposes the stark disparity in the media coverage of white and black missing persons. By keeping these stories and the missing in the news media, Derrica and Natalie put increased pressure on police departments to keep cases open and active.
The docuseries will feature...
- 10/27/2021
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Reservoir Docs has acquired the documentary “The Right to Be Forgotten,” by Romanian director Adina Sădeanu, which is being pitched this week during the Co-Production Forum of the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, Variety has learned. The company has secured worldwide sales rights apart from Romania, Moldova and Benelux.
Through a mix of investigation and observation, “The Right to Be Forgotten” tells the story of three women deeply wounded by years-long online attacks, harassment and death threats, who each respond to the attacks in their own way. Pic is produced by Axis Media Production, in co-production with Squarefish (Belgium) and HBO Europe. It’s currently in production and slated to be delivered in summer 2022.
“I started this film from the idea that the virtual world impacts our lives in ways that we don’t yet fully understand,” said Sădeanu. “One major influence comes through cyber violence and private life violations. Going beyond...
Through a mix of investigation and observation, “The Right to Be Forgotten” tells the story of three women deeply wounded by years-long online attacks, harassment and death threats, who each respond to the attacks in their own way. Pic is produced by Axis Media Production, in co-production with Squarefish (Belgium) and HBO Europe. It’s currently in production and slated to be delivered in summer 2022.
“I started this film from the idea that the virtual world impacts our lives in ways that we don’t yet fully understand,” said Sădeanu. “One major influence comes through cyber violence and private life violations. Going beyond...
- 6/30/2021
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
The New York Times is coming off a stellar Oscar season that saw two of its films earn Academy Award nominations: the short documentary A Concerto Is a Conversation, and the feature doc Time.
Now it’s got a fresh slate of contenders for Emmy season. The media outlet’s documentary series for FX Network, The New York Times Presents, has yielded multiple contenders for nominations, including the episodes The Killing of Breonna Taylor and Framing Britney Spears.
The Spears episode created a sensation when it aired in February, triggering a public debate about how the tabloids and mainstream media in the ‘90s and aughts sexualized the pop star and made sport of her apparent mental health challenges.
“We thankfully exist in a post #MeToo universe and the extent to which that movement has effectuated change in our perception of how women are treated and received by our culture I...
Now it’s got a fresh slate of contenders for Emmy season. The media outlet’s documentary series for FX Network, The New York Times Presents, has yielded multiple contenders for nominations, including the episodes The Killing of Breonna Taylor and Framing Britney Spears.
The Spears episode created a sensation when it aired in February, triggering a public debate about how the tabloids and mainstream media in the ‘90s and aughts sexualized the pop star and made sport of her apparent mental health challenges.
“We thankfully exist in a post #MeToo universe and the extent to which that movement has effectuated change in our perception of how women are treated and received by our culture I...
- 6/16/2021
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Max released a trailer for Season 4 of “Gomorrah,” which launches on May 20.
The new season focuses on Genny, who, in order to protect his family, commits to legit business and tries to escape the world in which his father raised him.
“Gomorrah” stars Salvatore Esposito, Ivana Lotito, Cristiana Dell’Anna, Arturo Muselli and Loris De Luna.
Based on the book by Roberto Saviano, “Gomorrah” is executive produced by Riccardo Tozzi, Gina Gardini, Giovanni Stabilini, Marco Chimenz, Nils Hartman and Sonia Rovai. The series is developed by Saviano and Stefano Bises, alongside Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, who also serve as writers with Enrico Audenino and Monica Zapelli. The fourth season is directed by Claudio Cupellini, Marco D’Amore, Enrico Rosati, Ciro Visco and Francesca Comencini, who is also the artistic supervisor.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
First Looks
PBS released a trailer for “Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten,...
The new season focuses on Genny, who, in order to protect his family, commits to legit business and tries to escape the world in which his father raised him.
“Gomorrah” stars Salvatore Esposito, Ivana Lotito, Cristiana Dell’Anna, Arturo Muselli and Loris De Luna.
Based on the book by Roberto Saviano, “Gomorrah” is executive produced by Riccardo Tozzi, Gina Gardini, Giovanni Stabilini, Marco Chimenz, Nils Hartman and Sonia Rovai. The series is developed by Saviano and Stefano Bises, alongside Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, who also serve as writers with Enrico Audenino and Monica Zapelli. The fourth season is directed by Claudio Cupellini, Marco D’Amore, Enrico Rosati, Ciro Visco and Francesca Comencini, who is also the artistic supervisor.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
First Looks
PBS released a trailer for “Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten,...
- 5/4/2021
- by Antonio Ferme and Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Almost everyone in America knows the name Breonna Taylor, the 26-year-old African American woman who was killed in Louisville last year in a botched police drug raid. But they may not know much about the circumstances around her death, other than that she was shot to death by police officers serving a “no knock” warrant at her home early on March 13, 2020.
The FX documentary The Killing of Breonna Taylor, part of The New York Times Presents series, investigates the succession of events that ended with a young woman dead on the floor of her own apartment.
“What we tried to do is to show how and why this tragedy happened as much as we could,” director-producer Yoruba Richen explained during Deadline’s Contenders Television: Documentary + Unscripted virtual panel. “There were so many problems— obviously, obviously there were, because look what happened.”
With the help of New York Times investigative reporters who worked their sources,...
The FX documentary The Killing of Breonna Taylor, part of The New York Times Presents series, investigates the succession of events that ended with a young woman dead on the floor of her own apartment.
“What we tried to do is to show how and why this tragedy happened as much as we could,” director-producer Yoruba Richen explained during Deadline’s Contenders Television: Documentary + Unscripted virtual panel. “There were so many problems— obviously, obviously there were, because look what happened.”
With the help of New York Times investigative reporters who worked their sources,...
- 5/1/2021
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
In 2002, when Halle Berry won the Oscar for her performance in “Monster’s Ball,” becoming the first African American to take home the Academy Award for best actress, after 30 seconds of convulsive tears she said, “This moment is so much bigger than me. This moment is for Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horne, Diahann Carroll…And it’s for every nameless, faceless woman of color that now has a chance, because this door tonight has been opened.” To achieve something by standing on the shoulders of others is a profound feeling. And what Halle Berry’s speech hit home is that where those earlier performers had allowed her to become a giant, they were giants too — more than contemporary audiences often know.
“How It Feels to Be Free” is a documentary, at once sobering and enchanting, that interweaves portraits of six legendary stars, all of them Black women, telling the story of the trails they blazed,...
“How It Feels to Be Free” is a documentary, at once sobering and enchanting, that interweaves portraits of six legendary stars, all of them Black women, telling the story of the trails they blazed,...
- 4/18/2021
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Theorem Media is putting the spotlight on legendary singer, songwriter, actor and human rights activist Harry Belafonte with Disrupting Injustice: A Belafonte Remix. The educational entertainment company has set a six-part docuseries inspired by and featuring the titular icon.
The music-driven docuseries is inspired by and will feature Egot recipient Belafonte and explore social justice issues around the world by documenting some of today’s most prominent artists/activists as they reimagine Belafonte’s iconic songs that speak truth to power. Artists Aloe Blacc, Angelique Kidjo, Maxwell, Gaël Faye, Common and John Forté are set to appear in the series. They will be joined by directors, activists and journalists including Kamilah Forbes, Carmen Perez, Chris L. Jenkins and Amy Goodman. Disrupting Injustice: A Belafonte Remix will explore including systemic racism, gender and society, digital activism, indigenous populations as well as cultural warfare.
“When I wrestle with the questions that...
The music-driven docuseries is inspired by and will feature Egot recipient Belafonte and explore social justice issues around the world by documenting some of today’s most prominent artists/activists as they reimagine Belafonte’s iconic songs that speak truth to power. Artists Aloe Blacc, Angelique Kidjo, Maxwell, Gaël Faye, Common and John Forté are set to appear in the series. They will be joined by directors, activists and journalists including Kamilah Forbes, Carmen Perez, Chris L. Jenkins and Amy Goodman. Disrupting Injustice: A Belafonte Remix will explore including systemic racism, gender and society, digital activism, indigenous populations as well as cultural warfare.
“When I wrestle with the questions that...
- 2/10/2021
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Editor’s note: Yoruba Richen is the director and Mehret Mandefro and Lacey Schwartz Delgado are executive producers of American Masters: How It Feels to Be Free, a documentary that looks at the historical importance and overlooked contributions of Black performers. Focusing on Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier, the docu — also executive produced by Alicia Keys — airs tonight on PBS in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Richen, Mandefro and Schwartz Delgado wrote this guest column for Deadline.
As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. this weekend and the nation prepares to inaugurate our 46th president, let us remember the Black women our Vice President-elect Kamala Harris described as “too often overlooked, but so often prove that they are the backbone of our democracy.” Specifically, let’s consider the all-too-often overlooked Black female performers, who have long used their art to...
As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. this weekend and the nation prepares to inaugurate our 46th president, let us remember the Black women our Vice President-elect Kamala Harris described as “too often overlooked, but so often prove that they are the backbone of our democracy.” Specifically, let’s consider the all-too-often overlooked Black female performers, who have long used their art to...
- 1/18/2021
- by Yoruba Richen, Mehret Mandefro and Lacey Schwartz Delgado
- Deadline Film + TV
PBS’ American Masters documentary “How It Feels to Be Free” – which counts Alicia Keys among its roster of exec producers – salutes the careers of six Black female entertainers who used their celebrity to promote civil rights and challenge racists stereotypes.
The documentary – which premieres today on PBS and is set to become a market priority for its distributor Fremantle at NATPE this week – is directed by Yoruba Richen.
A Yap Films production in association with Itvs, Chicken & Egg pictures and Documentary Channel in Canada, it celebrates the careers of Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier.
While its premiere may seem timely in the wake of the Time’s Up and Black Lives Matters movements, PBS and Itvs first came on board five years ago – it just took years to raise the necessary finance, according to Richen.
It was only when two of the film...
The documentary – which premieres today on PBS and is set to become a market priority for its distributor Fremantle at NATPE this week – is directed by Yoruba Richen.
A Yap Films production in association with Itvs, Chicken & Egg pictures and Documentary Channel in Canada, it celebrates the careers of Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier.
While its premiere may seem timely in the wake of the Time’s Up and Black Lives Matters movements, PBS and Itvs first came on board five years ago – it just took years to raise the necessary finance, according to Richen.
It was only when two of the film...
- 1/18/2021
- by Ann-Marie Corvin
- Variety Film + TV
When the coronavirus pandemic hit California in March, San Diego Film Festival artistic director Tonya Mantooth briefly considered canceling this year’s program. But when it came down to the final decision, she recalls, her team held her back, saying, “Wait a second, our mission is to use film as a catalyst to bring different perspectives and get them to the forefront. This is exactly why we exist as a festival — we need to stay in there and fight the good fight.”
In a year that is seeing a resurgence of sociopolitical movements challenging systemic racism and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, Sdff’s 2020 edition champions those messages as told through the big screen in a sincere effort to unite communities. With its weeklong program reduced to four days, the fest is scheduled for Oct. 15 to 18, featuring both drive-in events and virtual screenings that can be enjoyed in the comfort of festgoers’ homes.
In a year that is seeing a resurgence of sociopolitical movements challenging systemic racism and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, Sdff’s 2020 edition champions those messages as told through the big screen in a sincere effort to unite communities. With its weeklong program reduced to four days, the fest is scheduled for Oct. 15 to 18, featuring both drive-in events and virtual screenings that can be enjoyed in the comfort of festgoers’ homes.
- 10/15/2020
- by Janet W. Lee
- Variety Film + TV
As with most events held in 2020, the March on Washington Film Festival has two major historical moments to contend with — the coronavirus pandemic and the racial reckoning spurred by the Black Lives Matter movement. But while hosting a film festival amid an unprecedented health emergency is definitely challenging, event founder Robert Raben shares the benefits of presenting a program that centers on civil rights in today’s climate.
“It’s clearly horrible that the nation is yet again going through another cycle of reckoning about our past and how it affects our future and our current,” Raben tells Variety. “But it’s an unbelievably appropriate time for people to be focused on [Black] history, what’s the accurate telling of our history, and most importantly, how does our past influence our current situation. That’s what the festival is about — it’s designed to connect an accurate telling of our past,...
“It’s clearly horrible that the nation is yet again going through another cycle of reckoning about our past and how it affects our future and our current,” Raben tells Variety. “But it’s an unbelievably appropriate time for people to be focused on [Black] history, what’s the accurate telling of our history, and most importantly, how does our past influence our current situation. That’s what the festival is about — it’s designed to connect an accurate telling of our past,...
- 9/17/2020
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
In 1968, America was embroiled in protests over civil rights and the Vietnam War. In that tumultuous time, “The Tonight Show” host Johnny Carson turned over hosting duties for an entire week to actor and activist Harry Belafonte. His cast of guests included Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, just months before they were assassinated, during a week that’s been mostly lost in American history. Thankfully it’s now being revisited in a new Peacock documentary, executive produced by MSNBC host Joy Reid and directed by award-winning filmmaker Yoruba Richen, aptly titled “The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show.”
At the time, Carson’s pioneering late night variety show had become one of the country’s most influential platforms. So the move to have Belafonte take this mainstream institution and transform it into a multicultural and political experience, introducing white America to his world of art and activism,...
At the time, Carson’s pioneering late night variety show had become one of the country’s most influential platforms. So the move to have Belafonte take this mainstream institution and transform it into a multicultural and political experience, introducing white America to his world of art and activism,...
- 9/10/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
In the 175 days since Louisville police killed Breonna Taylor, she has become a fulcrum for a movement. Her unjust death, alongside too many others, galvanized a wounded nation into leaving their homes, taking up protest signs, demanding justice and the kind of accountability from law enforcement that rarely comes. By design of those drawing attention to her case, her face has become ubiquitous at rallies, on magazine covers, on Instagram grids. She’s become, for better and for worse, a symbol of what happens when unchecked policing and racism collide. This deification can serve a purpose, but it also strips a person of their inherent humanity. Before Breonna Taylor was a hashtag, she was a human being.
With “The Killing of Breonna Taylor,” documentarian Yoruba Richen and the New York Times try to investigate and explain exactly how this happened to a 26 year-old Emt who spent her last minutes falling...
With “The Killing of Breonna Taylor,” documentarian Yoruba Richen and the New York Times try to investigate and explain exactly how this happened to a 26 year-old Emt who spent her last minutes falling...
- 9/4/2020
- by Caroline Framke
- Variety Film + TV
A documentary about Harry Belafonte’s “Tonight Show” stint and another executive produced by NFL player Malcolm Jenkins will be among the movies that will debut on Peacock as part of NBCUniversal’s original film slate in September.
The original films “Anthony,” “The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show” and “Black Boys” will premiere early next month. Further, the documentary “A Most Beautiful Thing” and Emilio Esteveez’s “The Public” will stream exclusively on the service in September.
“The Sit-In,” which premieres Sept. 10, looks at the events surrounding the week in which Belafonte guest hosted “The Tonight Show” in place of Johnny Carson for a full week in February 1968, the first time a Black man ever got the opportunity. Belafonte’s guests that week included Aretha Franklin, Sidney Poitier, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, and the documentary includes behind-the-scenes footage of how the politics of the day shaped the show.
The original films “Anthony,” “The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show” and “Black Boys” will premiere early next month. Further, the documentary “A Most Beautiful Thing” and Emilio Esteveez’s “The Public” will stream exclusively on the service in September.
“The Sit-In,” which premieres Sept. 10, looks at the events surrounding the week in which Belafonte guest hosted “The Tonight Show” in place of Johnny Carson for a full week in February 1968, the first time a Black man ever got the opportunity. Belafonte’s guests that week included Aretha Franklin, Sidney Poitier, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, and the documentary includes behind-the-scenes footage of how the politics of the day shaped the show.
- 8/21/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Peacock has unveiled a slate of original films, all of which will debut on the service in September.
The NBCU streamer, which launched nationally just over a month ago, will premiere a doc on Harry Belafonte’s brief stint hosting “The Tonight Show,” Emilio Estevez’s pic “The Public,” starring Alec Baldwin, and a doc from NFL star Malcolm Jenkins which celebrates the humanity of Black men and boys.
“The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts the Tonight Show” was supposed to launch at the Tribeca Film Festival, but soon after the festival didn’t take place, Variety caught up with the doc’s producers and director Yoruba Richen to talk about the significance of Belafonte hosting, and how it reflects on the current late night landscape.
“It says a lot about the politics of today and where we are,” Richen said. “And that late night is still dominated by white men.
The NBCU streamer, which launched nationally just over a month ago, will premiere a doc on Harry Belafonte’s brief stint hosting “The Tonight Show,” Emilio Estevez’s pic “The Public,” starring Alec Baldwin, and a doc from NFL star Malcolm Jenkins which celebrates the humanity of Black men and boys.
“The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts the Tonight Show” was supposed to launch at the Tribeca Film Festival, but soon after the festival didn’t take place, Variety caught up with the doc’s producers and director Yoruba Richen to talk about the significance of Belafonte hosting, and how it reflects on the current late night landscape.
“It says a lot about the politics of today and where we are,” Richen said. “And that late night is still dominated by white men.
- 8/21/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Popstar Alicia Keys is to exec produce a feature-length documentary about six iconic African American female entertainers for PBS.
American Masters: How It Feels To Be Free will tell the story of Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier and how they challenged an entertainment industry deeply complicit in perpetuating racist stereotypes, and transformed themselves and their audiences in the process.
The doc, which will air in early 2021 on PBS and the Documentary Channel in Canada, features interviews and archival performances with all six women, as well as original conversations with artists influenced by them, including Keys, Halle Berry, Lena Waithe, Meagan Good, Latanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson, as well as family members, including Horne’s daughter Gail Lumet Buckley.
It is based on the book How It Feels To Be Free: Black Women Entertainers and the Civil Rights Movement by Ruth Feldstein.
American Masters: How It Feels To Be Free will tell the story of Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier and how they challenged an entertainment industry deeply complicit in perpetuating racist stereotypes, and transformed themselves and their audiences in the process.
The doc, which will air in early 2021 on PBS and the Documentary Channel in Canada, features interviews and archival performances with all six women, as well as original conversations with artists influenced by them, including Keys, Halle Berry, Lena Waithe, Meagan Good, Latanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson, as well as family members, including Horne’s daughter Gail Lumet Buckley.
It is based on the book How It Feels To Be Free: Black Women Entertainers and the Civil Rights Movement by Ruth Feldstein.
- 7/28/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The announcement this week that golfing icon Tiger Woods would be the subject of a two-part HBO documentary series has provoked a backlash in the documentary community due to a lack of above-the-line diversity on the project.
The Tiger series is being co-helmed by Oscar-nominated City of Ghosts and A Private War filmmaker Matthew Heineman and the Emmy-nominated Matthew Hamachek. The pair previously collaborated on Cartel Land. Alex Gibney is exec producing the doc through his Jigsaw Productions, alongside HBO Sports.
Heineman announced the project on his Facebook page July 10, and the post quickly became the stage for a lively debate about the project’s lack of Black talent. Geeta Gandbhir, the Emmy-winning doc filmmaker, was first to make the point, writing, “This is a great project. I said this to Matthew Hamachek as well, and feel compelled to ask you — in the spirit of being anti racist — why did you both,...
The Tiger series is being co-helmed by Oscar-nominated City of Ghosts and A Private War filmmaker Matthew Heineman and the Emmy-nominated Matthew Hamachek. The pair previously collaborated on Cartel Land. Alex Gibney is exec producing the doc through his Jigsaw Productions, alongside HBO Sports.
Heineman announced the project on his Facebook page July 10, and the post quickly became the stage for a lively debate about the project’s lack of Black talent. Geeta Gandbhir, the Emmy-winning doc filmmaker, was first to make the point, writing, “This is a great project. I said this to Matthew Hamachek as well, and feel compelled to ask you — in the spirit of being anti racist — why did you both,...
- 7/16/2020
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
FX and Hulu are partnering with the New York Times to create a 10-episode documentary series that will explore breaking news, character-driven stories, and feature reporting from the publication’s journalists. The first episode of the series, which is titled “The New York Times Presents,” will premiere on Friday and centers on the coronavirus pandemic.
The docuseries hails from the team behind “The Weekly,” Hulu’s television spinoff of the New York Times’ popular “The Daily” investigative journalism podcast. While “The New York Times Presents” is not an FX on Hulu series, each of its episodes will simultaneously premiere on FX and Hulu, which are both owned by Disney.
Here’s the synopsis for “They Get Brave,” the coronavirus-focused episode that premieres on Friday at 10 p.m. local time: As the coronavirus ravages more and more American cities, we look back to the place hit hardest: New York City. Doctors and nurses documented their lives,...
The docuseries hails from the team behind “The Weekly,” Hulu’s television spinoff of the New York Times’ popular “The Daily” investigative journalism podcast. While “The New York Times Presents” is not an FX on Hulu series, each of its episodes will simultaneously premiere on FX and Hulu, which are both owned by Disney.
Here’s the synopsis for “They Get Brave,” the coronavirus-focused episode that premieres on Friday at 10 p.m. local time: As the coronavirus ravages more and more American cities, we look back to the place hit hardest: New York City. Doctors and nurses documented their lives,...
- 7/8/2020
- by Tyler Hersko
- Indiewire
FX and Hulu have teamed to launch The New York Times Presents, a 10-episode monthly documentary series set to premiere at 10 Pm Friday, July 10.
The New York Times Presents is the new incarnation of The Weekly; FX referred to a second season of the Nyt docuseries on its 2020-21 programming slate released in May.
The New York Times Presents hails from the same creative team as The Weekly and also will feature breaking news, investigations and character-driven stories and features reporting from journalists at The New York Times.
The air frequency will be different — monthly vs. weekly for The Weekly (and daily for The Daily podcast/radio show the TV series was originally based on.). Additionally, new episodes of The New York Times Presents will be released on a Friday simultaneously on FX and Hulu. An episode of The Weekly premiered on Sunday night, with Hulu posting it online at midnight the same night.
The New York Times Presents is the new incarnation of The Weekly; FX referred to a second season of the Nyt docuseries on its 2020-21 programming slate released in May.
The New York Times Presents hails from the same creative team as The Weekly and also will feature breaking news, investigations and character-driven stories and features reporting from journalists at The New York Times.
The air frequency will be different — monthly vs. weekly for The Weekly (and daily for The Daily podcast/radio show the TV series was originally based on.). Additionally, new episodes of The New York Times Presents will be released on a Friday simultaneously on FX and Hulu. An episode of The Weekly premiered on Sunday night, with Hulu posting it online at midnight the same night.
- 7/7/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
FX and Hulu have partnered to launch the documentary series “The New York Times Presents.”
The show hails from the team behind FX’s “The Weekly.” The new show will present standalone documentaries on major stories via the journalists at the New York Times.
“The New York Times Presents” will feature 10 individual documentaries that will air on FX and on Hulu on Fridays at 10 p.m. Et/Pt. The series will air one episode per month, beginning with:
“They Get Brave” – As the coronavirus ravages more and more American cities, we look back to the place hit hardest: New York City. Doctors and nurses documented their lives, capturing awe‐inspiring resolve in the face of a breakdown in the health‐care system. Producers/Directors: Samantha Stark, Alexandra Garcia, John Pappas and Lora Moftah.
“This Is Dominic Fike: The Next Big Thing?” – The making of a pop star in 2020: A...
The show hails from the team behind FX’s “The Weekly.” The new show will present standalone documentaries on major stories via the journalists at the New York Times.
“The New York Times Presents” will feature 10 individual documentaries that will air on FX and on Hulu on Fridays at 10 p.m. Et/Pt. The series will air one episode per month, beginning with:
“They Get Brave” – As the coronavirus ravages more and more American cities, we look back to the place hit hardest: New York City. Doctors and nurses documented their lives, capturing awe‐inspiring resolve in the face of a breakdown in the health‐care system. Producers/Directors: Samantha Stark, Alexandra Garcia, John Pappas and Lora Moftah.
“This Is Dominic Fike: The Next Big Thing?” – The making of a pop star in 2020: A...
- 7/7/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
In its day, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson dominated ratings and garnered numerous awards. But one of its most overlooked achievements is the week when Johnny Carson gave up his chair to multi-hyphenate performer Harry Belafonte in February 1968.
The Sit-In, a documentary directed by Yoruba Richen, follows the first time an African-American hosted a late-night television show for an entire week.
Belafonte’s guests included such entertainment icons as Lena Horne, Paul Newman and Aretha Franklin, as well as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, months before were assassinated. The docu features interviews with Belafonte, Whoopi Goldberg, Questlove and others who recount this historic achievement in television in the midst of political and social issues the country faced back then and continues to grapple with today.
Richen spoke withDeadline about the impact of Belafonte’s hosting gig and his activism,...
The Sit-In, a documentary directed by Yoruba Richen, follows the first time an African-American hosted a late-night television show for an entire week.
Belafonte’s guests included such entertainment icons as Lena Horne, Paul Newman and Aretha Franklin, as well as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, months before were assassinated. The docu features interviews with Belafonte, Whoopi Goldberg, Questlove and others who recount this historic achievement in television in the midst of political and social issues the country faced back then and continues to grapple with today.
Richen spoke withDeadline about the impact of Belafonte’s hosting gig and his activism,...
- 5/22/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
In the documentary “The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts the Tonight Show,” producers Valerie Thomas and Joan Walsh and director Yoruba Richen aimed to bring back home a seminal event in television history whose themes still resonate.
It was 1968, war was raging and racial tensions in America were at a boiling point, dividing the nation. In February, Harry Belafonte stepped in for Johnny Carson to host “The Tonight Show.” It was a monumental moment in which an African American would be the frontman of the most dominant program in late night — and perhaps all of TV — for an entire week. Guests included Lena Horne, Paul Newman, Aretha Franklin, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy.
The doc was scheduled to screen in April at the Tribeca Film Festival, not far from where “The Tonight Show” was filmed in the ’60s, with an after-film discussion that was to have included Belafonte’s daughter,...
It was 1968, war was raging and racial tensions in America were at a boiling point, dividing the nation. In February, Harry Belafonte stepped in for Johnny Carson to host “The Tonight Show.” It was a monumental moment in which an African American would be the frontman of the most dominant program in late night — and perhaps all of TV — for an entire week. Guests included Lena Horne, Paul Newman, Aretha Franklin, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy.
The doc was scheduled to screen in April at the Tribeca Film Festival, not far from where “The Tonight Show” was filmed in the ’60s, with an after-film discussion that was to have included Belafonte’s daughter,...
- 5/21/2020
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Much has been made in recent years of the need to support, uplift, and, for the love of God — finance —more women filmmakers, but how many lesbian films have shaken out from all that hand-wringing? It’s heartening to see a woman at the helm of a comic book movie, but when was the last great lesbian rom-com? (Even more pressing: Where is the next one?) As in the struggle for queer liberation, lesbians —and lesbian films — are often an afterthought. That’s one of the many salient points covered in the peppy new documentary, “Dykes, Camera, Action!,” which while offering yet more proof that no one does catchy titles like the queers.
At a breezy 60 minutes, the film has much in common with that other lesbian tradition, the potluck, in terms of the topics it covers. There’s a little o’ this, a little o’ that, plus plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
At a breezy 60 minutes, the film has much in common with that other lesbian tradition, the potluck, in terms of the topics it covers. There’s a little o’ this, a little o’ that, plus plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
- 5/15/2020
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
Women in the World and IFC Center unveiled their lineup for the very first 51Fest, an event that celebrates the voice, vision and stories of the female majority through compelling screenings and conversations, all by or about women. The inaugural festival takes place July 18-21 in New York City.
51Fest will open the festivities with the docu-comedy Kathy Griffin: A Hell of a Story, which spotlights the fallout from the comedian’s infamous photo holding a mask of Donald Trump’s likeness and her battle to reclaim her life and career. After the screening, Griffin will sit down in conversation with Tina Brown, CEO and founder of Tina Brown Live Media/Women in the World.
“The inaugural 51Fest leaves no doubt that a woman’s place is at the center of the story,” said Brown. “Griffin’s film is a cautionary tale of what happens when a thin-skinned authoritarian,...
51Fest will open the festivities with the docu-comedy Kathy Griffin: A Hell of a Story, which spotlights the fallout from the comedian’s infamous photo holding a mask of Donald Trump’s likeness and her battle to reclaim her life and career. After the screening, Griffin will sit down in conversation with Tina Brown, CEO and founder of Tina Brown Live Media/Women in the World.
“The inaugural 51Fest leaves no doubt that a woman’s place is at the center of the story,” said Brown. “Griffin’s film is a cautionary tale of what happens when a thin-skinned authoritarian,...
- 6/27/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Smithsonian Channel is premiering a new documentary from Yoruba Richen, an award-winning, global documentary filmmaker about the real history of The Negro Motorist Green Book. Titled The Green Book: Guide to Freedom for Black History Month. This must-see educational special goes in-depth with the people, places and stories that informed not just this now-famous book thanks to the recent Oscar-nominated film, but also pre-civil rights African American travelers of the time. It was a lifeline for them. The Green Book was a way for African Americans to get from one place to another during auto travel safely. Unimaginable in today’s […]
The post The Green Book: Guide to Freedom documentary on Smithsonian reveals history of The Green Book appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
The post The Green Book: Guide to Freedom documentary on Smithsonian reveals history of The Green Book appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
- 2/20/2019
- by April Neale
- Monsters and Critics
A&E IndieFilms and Sundance Institute have selected four recipients for their inaugural “Brave Storytellers Award,” an honor that is intended to provide financial support for documentary filmmakers. The winners are Cecilia Aldarondo, Jemka Autry, Margaret Brown, and Yoruba Richen.
Each honoree will receive $25,000 in seed funding, as well as year-round mentorship from staff of the Sundance Institute, a non-profit filmmaking organization. A&E IndieFilms will then work with Sundance Institute to support the recipients’ projects through development, production and distribution.
The projects being supported by the grants cover a range of subjects. Richen’s “American Reckoning” will grapple with the FBI’s recent series of investigations into hundreds of unsolved civil rights era murders. Autry’s “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” examines the prosecution of the jazz singer on drug charges. And Aldarondo’s “You Were My First Boyfriend” reexamines life in high school.
Brown’s project is dubbed “Africatown,...
Each honoree will receive $25,000 in seed funding, as well as year-round mentorship from staff of the Sundance Institute, a non-profit filmmaking organization. A&E IndieFilms will then work with Sundance Institute to support the recipients’ projects through development, production and distribution.
The projects being supported by the grants cover a range of subjects. Richen’s “American Reckoning” will grapple with the FBI’s recent series of investigations into hundreds of unsolved civil rights era murders. Autry’s “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” examines the prosecution of the jazz singer on drug charges. And Aldarondo’s “You Were My First Boyfriend” reexamines life in high school.
Brown’s project is dubbed “Africatown,...
- 1/25/2019
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Read More: Emmy Award-Winning Chicken & Egg Pictures is Putting a Spotlight on Criminal Justice Chicken & Egg Pictures, a leader in supporting female non-fiction filmmakers, have announced the five recipients of their inaugural Breakthrough Filmmaker Awards. The five chosen filmmakers are Kristi Jacobson ("A Place at the Table"), Julia Reichert ("The Last Truck"), Yoruba Richen ("The New Black"), Elaine McMillion Sheldon ("Hollow") and Michèle Stephenson ("American Promise"). Jacobson is a NY-based filmmaker whose films capture nuanced, intimate and provocative portrayals of individuals and communities; her most recent film, "A Place at the Table," premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival before its theatrical release in over 35 U.S. cities. Reichert, meanwhile is a three-time Academy Award nominee for her documentary work, while Richen is a documentary filmmaker whose work explores issues of race,...
- 1/19/2016
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
There’s a really special scene in Yoruba Richen’s documentary "The New Black," where heterosexual black Lgbt activist/organizer Sharon Lettman-Hicks gets into a disagreement with a female family member about homosexuality at a get- together with her in-laws. The woman states that “God did not make lesbians,” while Sharon questions her. Earlier, in that same house, an older black aunt shares that when her granddaughter “came out,” she told her she would always love her no matter “which way she goes.” It’s these kinds of sharp, varied interactions that make the film particularly resonant. Where mainstream media has aimed to present the black community as a monolith of...
- 8/5/2015
- by Nijla Mumin
- ShadowAndAct
Here's our next installment of the new S&A series Frame By Frame, featuring guest posts and in-depth conversations with film and television professionals. Find the first piece in the series, with cinematographer Daniel Patterson, Here. We'll next hear from film composer Kathryn Bostic.Kathryn is a composer, singer, songwriter and musician who has scored several independent features we've written about on this site, including Ava DuVernay's "Middle of Nowhere" and "I Will Follow," Yoruba Richen's "Promised Land" and "The New Black," "Dear White People," "Soul Food Junkies," and the forthcoming August Wilson documentary "The Ground on Which I Stand." She has...
- 6/10/2014
- by Kathryn Bostic
- ShadowAndAct
Couples marry in Wisconsin, Tracy Morgan seriously injured, Peyton Reed to direct Ant Man
Remember those sexy photos of Jamie Dornan for Interview Magazine? It turns out we didn’t see them all, because some were nude, and we’ve got Nsfw bubble butt – and pickle!
The St. Louis Rams have posted video profiles for their players, including Michael Sam, detailing his college career, why he was a draft pick for the team, and what his hopes were. They didn’t include the famous kiss, but they do show him taking the call with his boyfriend.
Tracy Morgan was involved in a horrible multi-car accident in his limo bus with several other comedians returning to New York from a show in New Jersey. Morgan was airlifted to the hospital, while another comedian, James McNair, was pronounced dead. The driver of the tractor trailer that caused the crash has been charged...
Remember those sexy photos of Jamie Dornan for Interview Magazine? It turns out we didn’t see them all, because some were nude, and we’ve got Nsfw bubble butt – and pickle!
The St. Louis Rams have posted video profiles for their players, including Michael Sam, detailing his college career, why he was a draft pick for the team, and what his hopes were. They didn’t include the famous kiss, but they do show him taking the call with his boyfriend.
Tracy Morgan was involved in a horrible multi-car accident in his limo bus with several other comedians returning to New York from a show in New Jersey. Morgan was airlifted to the hospital, while another comedian, James McNair, was pronounced dead. The driver of the tractor trailer that caused the crash has been charged...
- 6/8/2014
- by Ed Kennedy
- The Backlot
As Tambay said below, today is your last chance to see Yoruba Richen’s prize-winning documentary The New Black in New York at The Film Forum, but that doesn’t mean your chances are totally gone.If you live in the Chicago area, you’re in luck, because the film will open this Friday, Feb. 21 at Facets Cinémathèque (sort of Chicago’s own version of The Film Forum), for an exclusive one-week engagement.The film will screen twice a week on weekdays at 7 & 9 Pm, and on Sat., Feb. 22 at 3, 5, 7 & 9Pm and on Sun., Feb. 23 at 3, 5 & 7 Pm.Facet's Cinémathèque is located on Chicago’s North Side at 1517 W. Fullerton. You can read Tambay’s piece below to find out more...
- 2/18/2014
- by Sergio
- ShadowAndAct
Yoruba Richen's award-winning feature documentary, The New Black, opened in New York City, at Film Forum, a week ago, for a 1-week run, February 12-18. Today is your very last day to see it in a theatrical setting, so take advantage if you're interested. Already a recipient of a few prestigious awards, including the Creative Promise Award at Tribeca All Access, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and the Audience Award for Best Feature at the AFI Docs film festival, the topical documentary made its World Premiere, at the Los Angeles Film Festival last year, in the Documentary Competition. Here's an official synopsis...
- 2/18/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
There’s a really special scene in Yoruba Richen’s documentary The New Black, where heterosexual black Lgbt activist/organizer Sharon Lettman-Hicks gets into a disagreement with a female family member about homosexuality at a get- together with her in-laws. The woman states that “God did not make lesbians,” while Sharon questions her. Earlier, in that same house, an older black aunt shares that when her granddaughter “came out,” she told her she would always love her no matter “which way she goes.” It’s these kinds of sharp, varied interactions that make the film particularly resonant. Where mainstream media has aimed to present the black community as a monolith of homophobia and...
- 2/14/2014
- by Nijla Mumin
- ShadowAndAct
“This is the unfinished business of black people being free.” –Sharon Lettman-Hicks In Yoruba Richen’s documentary, The New Black, a black lesbian couple prepares a homemade pizza with their two children. The two women are happy and in love. There is no denying the freedom in their home, so why couldn’t it be acknowledged by the state?Teasing out the complex undercurrents of homophobia and acceptance within the black community, Richen explores how African Americans are grappling with same-sex marriage as a civil right, and how this eventually led to the 2012 passage of Question 6 (same sex marriage referendum) in Maryland, which was the first time marriage was granted to...
- 2/14/2014
- by Nijla Mumin
- ShadowAndAct
Because queer lives are lived across myriad realities, conversations about homophobia are also necessarily conversations about race, religion (and power plays by religious institutions), class, cultural traditions, hidden histories, political opportunism, and steady doses of hypocrisy. Whether it is Putin's horrific escalating anti-gay crusade in Russia, the enflamed homophobia engulfing various countries on the African continent, or the right wing's petulant pushback against gay marriage here in the U.S., the conversation is never mono-topical. That point is powerfully illustrated in filmmaker Yoruba Richen's documentary The New Black. Inspired by the scapegoating of the African-American community following the passing of California's anti-gay-marriage bill, Proposition ...
- 2/12/2014
- Village Voice
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