Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse has taken over everything since it came out. The film has received rave reviews and continues to pull in huge box office numbers. On top of that it has a number of promotional tie-ins including a soundtrack executive produced by Metro Boomin. In a recent interview with Variety Metro talked about the shadow of the first film’s soundtrack. Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse preceded this film and had a soundtrack that featured “Sunflower.” The collaboration between Post Malone and Swae Lee went on to be a massive hit song. In developing a soundtrack for the sequel Metro Boomin made it clear he wasn’t trying to outdo the success of that song.
“‘Sunflower’ was a great record — was it 17 times platinum or something like that, something insane? And things like that don’t happen often, so I didn’t even want to go into it with the mind of how am I going to top “Sunflower”?” Metro explained. In fact, the song is now 18 times platinum which is just one in a long list of commercial accomplishments it made. The track spent 33 weeks in the top 10 of the Hot 100. It also ended up as the 4th best-selling song of 2019. “So more than trying to make a song that’s 20 times platinum, I just wanted to focus on making a great album and a listening experience from top to bottom that you’re just going to want to keep playing,” he added.
Metro Boomin’s Spider-Verse
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JUNE 1: Metro Boomin attends “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” Screening Hosted by Halo & 2 Chainz at Regal Atlantic Station on June 1, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/WireImage)
Later on in the interview, he clarified his ambitions for the soundtrack. “So there might not be a “Sunflower” or a song that’s like 15 or even 10 times platinum or anything like that, but there might be a bunch of songs that people really love and make and integrate as a part of their everyday lives.”
The soundtrack features an impressive roster of collaborators from the hip-hop world and beyond. Future, Lil Uzi Vert, A$AP Rocky, Lil Wayne, and 21 Savage make up just some of the many artists lending their voices and work to the various songs. Let us know what you think about the Across The Spider-Verse soundtrack in the comments below.
The first film in the Fast & Furious franchise, The Fast And The Furious, came out in 2001. Back then, it was a simple film about a street racing crew helmed by Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel). But the film made nearly five-and-a-half times more than it’s $38 million budget. This would be the first film in a franchise that has become a pop culture behemoth.
The most recent film, Fast X, is on course to pass $1 billion at the box office and served as an Avengers-esque beginning of the end to the franchise. Furthermore, Ludacris’ first appearance in 2 Fast 2 Furious but became a franchise staple from Fast Five onwards. Tej Parker has become a beloved fan-favorite character. Now the rapper has explained why the franchise is so enduring.
Speaking on the All The Smoke podcast, Ludacris explained the very simple reason behind the long-running franchise. “Arguably these have gotten better and better,” the rapper and actor declared. “To the point where it’s like people just trying to understand how the hell we keep doing this shit. I also hear people say all the time ‘Why do y’all keep doing these movies?’ That’s the dumbest fucking question in the world. I’m gonna tell you why, because no matter what industry we’re in; podcast, music, movies, it’s all about a bottom line. It’s all about how much you spend compared to how much you make. We’re making billions of fucking dollars.”
He continued. “Because if you spend 200 million and you make a billion who the fuck is you gonna tell to stop shooting movies when you’re making 800 muthafuckin million dollars every time,” Ludacris added. “I need people to stop asking that question. Even if you don’t like it, even if you don’t want to watch it, it’s okay. Stop asking that goddamn question that is the answer.” How do you feel about the Fast And Furious franchise? Let us know in the comments. Get all the latest entertainment news here at HotNewHipHop.
Barbie is set to be the cinematic event of the summer. Directed by Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird, Little Women), the film is set to take us to the Barbie world. While the film is set to feature a myriad of different Barbies, the main Barbie (i.e. the original pink-clad, blonde Barbie) is brought to life by Margot Robbie. She will go on the adventure of a lifetime alongside her boyfriend Ken (Ryan Gosling). The film’s cast is full of A-list talent and released trailers have already gotten the world hyped for the film’s release. Additionally, a new trailer will be released later on May 25.
Now, a pastel pink Barbie movie in 2023 would not be complete without a killer soundtrack. In fact, a film like this could live or die on its music. While some elements, like a Dua Lipa single, have been known for a while, we have now gotten our first look at an extended selection of the artists who will be contributing to the Barbie soundtrack.
“Barbie” Set To Have a Certified Banger Soundtrack
Rolling Stone got an exclusive look at the Barbie soundtrack and accompanying album, which is available on July 21. The album is loaded with talent, with more artists set to be announced over the coming months. However, we have already been treated to 18 artists. According to promotional images, the soundtrack will feature Ava Max, Charli XCX, Dominic Fike, Dua Lipa, FIFTY FIFTY, Gayle, HAIM, Ice Spice, Kali, Karol G, Khalid, Lizzo, Nicki Minaj, PinkPantheress, Ryan Gosling, Tame Impala, and The Kid LAROI. Dua Lipa’s single for the film, “Dance The Night”, will be released on May 25.
Furthermore, the lineup is absolute fire…with one exception. As many fans are asking, where is Aqua? The Danish pop group is essentially known for two songs, one of them being the iconic 90s hit, “Barbie Girl”. Hopefully, they will be announced soon or serve as a fantastic Easter Egg come the film’s release. However, “Barbie Girl” was sampled in Ava Max’s 2017 hit “Not Your Barbie Girl”. Regardless, what do you think about the artists announced so far? Are you excited for Barbie? Let us know in the comments.
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are currently actively involved in the production of their new movie, Bad Boys 4. The dynamic duo experienced great success at the box office when they joined forces once again for the third installment of the Bad Boys series, titled Bad Boys for Life, in 2020. Recently, the two were seen on set in Atlanta filming scenes for this highly anticipated fourth installment. In an Instagram video posted in January, the two actors thrilled fans with the announcement of the upcoming film, captioning it with the words “IT’S ABOUT THAT TIME!”
During the CinemaCon event in April, Smith and Lawrence appeared in a special video to address their absence from the Las Vegas gathering. They playfully explained that they couldn’t attend because they were fully engaged in the filming of the sequel, which had already been in progress for four weeks at that point. With a touch of humor, Lawrence jokingly stated, “We’re not sorry we couldn’t be there.” Smith chimed in, saying, “We’re glad we’re not there because we’re here, and they’re paying us to be here.” Both actors expressed genuine excitement and enthusiasm for Bad Boys 4, describing themselves as “hyped” about the project. The new footage below shows that they are still filming the sequel.
Smith And Lawrence Come Out Guns Blazing For “Bad Boys 4”
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence were once again captured on film shooting a scene for Bad Boys 4. The gripping and remarkably realistic action scene was shot in an Atlanta neighborhood. TMZ obtained exclusive footage taken from a nearby building. It showcases the cast and crew as they filmed an intense shoot-out sequence for the highly-anticipated sequel.
In the video, Detectives Mike Lowrey (played by Will Smith) and Marcus Miles Burnett (played by Martin Lawrence) take center stage in a fast-paced and explosive sequence. The scene depicts the two characters navigating through a parking lot. There, they suddenly find themselves under attack, with a hail of bullets raining down on them. In the midst of the chaos, they seek cover while retaliating against their assailants. Sadly, a couple of their fellow police officers appear to be taken down during the intense firefight. Martin and Will’s characters managed to survive the onslaught, of course. It is a fitting and unsurprising outcome for the stars of this action-packed franchise. Stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news on Bad Boys 4!
Pete Davidson spent eight seasons with the legendary Saturday Night Live cast, including Aidy Bryant, Kate McKinnon, and Kyle Mooney. His personal life is often in the news due to his dating history—especially his ties to the Kardashians. However, his true focus remains on portraying characters inspired by himself in rom-coms, horror-comedies, and more. With a long list of memorable roles and considerable talent, Pete Davidson’s best work is examined here. What’s your favorite role from the comedian?
1. The Suicide Squad (2021)
In James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad, Pete Davidson appeared alongside Margot Robbie and Idris Elba. As Blackguard, he portrayed the dimwitted mercenary disrespected by the notorious band. On The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Davidson recalled his motivation to take on the role of Dick Hertz. With a Metascore of 72, this chaotic adventure through Corto Maltese has been deemed a great movie experience.
2. Saturday Night Live
In 2014, Davidson made his big debut on Saturday Night Live, remaining until 2022. Though just 20 years old, Davidson was one of the youngest actors ever to be cast in SNL, thanks to a recommendation from Bill Hader. Through various sketches, Davidson attained fame quickly. Not only did Davidson use characters as needed, but he also brought about a modern, laid-back attitude. He became a symbol of a new comedy style, leaving an invaluable mark behind before departing. Capitalizing on his success in SNL, the young star basked in the radiant limelight of film stardom not long after.
3. The King Of Staten Island (2020)
In his most acclaimed role, Davidson put forth an impressive performance in The King of Staten Island. Tracking Scott, a carefree young man forced to mature when his mother starts dating a firefighter. She encourages him to take control of his life. The story reveals the reality of his struggles.
Drawing from Davidson’s own father’s experience as a firefighter, Scott’s vulnerability is deeply relatable. IMDb users have praised the realism of the movie, its well-rounded characters, its accuracy in depicting twenty-somethings, and the striking portrayal that Davidson offers. The poignancy and artistry of this work can not go unnoticed.
4. Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022)
Davidson recently crafted one of 2022’s most innovative horror films, Bodies Bodies Bodies. This dark comedy follows a group of partygoers whose celebration ends in tragedy when someone is murdered. Davidson stars as Davi, a wealthy, macho man with an ego that is easily threatened. However, his ability to make the audience laugh by the movie’s end speaks to his tremendous talent. His charismatic and laid-back presence consistently adds texture to the film, making him an essential part of any cast. His appealing onscreen vibe will continue to entertain viewers for years to come.
5. The Dirt (2019)
The Dirt, a Netflix biopic dramedy depicting the rise of Motley Crue, has been met with far more enthusiastic responses from IMDb fans than the criticism it has received. Pete Davidson takes on the role of Tom Zutaut in the film, playing an Elektra Records executive offering the group a five-album deal in the early ’80s.
Motley Crue supporters have leaped to voice their appreciation at the explosive and captivating movie, even those who claim never to have heard the band’s music. Viewers hail the compelling characters, seamless casting choices, and powerful performances, not forgetting how thrilling the trip back in time to the rocking ’80s is for older viewers.
6. I Want You Back (2022)
Gathering a whimsical idea, Jason Orley’s I Want You Back features Emma (Jenny Slate) and Peter (Charlie Day) uniting to ruin their former partners’ new relationships. Davidson performs as Jase, an elatedly boisterous hipster who encourages Peter to lighten up while he grieves for Anne (Gina Rodriguez). Critical reviews proclaim that I Want You Back is surprisingly much superior to hoped, with Day, Slate, and Scott Eastwood truly radiating humor. Others commend the star-studded cast for propelling a pallid, hackneyed rom-com to magnificent heights. Tender, snug, and overflowing with ardor, I Want You Back is seen as better than average rom-com.
7. The Freak Brothers (2020)
The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, a classic underground comic by Gilbert Shelton, consists of Cheech and Chong’s predecessors, Franklin, Phineas, Freddy, and Kitty. In 1969, these four avoided the draft, police, and any conventional employment. But after smoking a unique strain of marijuana, they sleep for 50 years and wake up in 2020 to find their house renovated and occupied by the Switzers – an ethnically diverse family that is “certifiably woke.”
The Switzer’s modern knowledge makes them guides to help the Freaks understand the complexities of the world and the values of simpler times. For those fans of Pete Davidson, The Freak Brothers is an excellent pick, as it was his first significant series outside of SNL. It was also one of the first series to be released on Tubi.
8. Set It Up (2018)
Claire Scanlon’s hit Netflix rom-com, Set it Up, has won the hearts of many. Starring Zoey Deutch as Harper and Glen Powell as Charlie, the film follows the pair’s attempts to bring some comfort to their all-consuming jobs by covertly setting up their bosses on a date. Pete Davidson stars as Charlie’s witty flatmate Duncan, offering considerable comic relief. IMDb scored the movie highly for its bubbling chemistry between the leads, relaxed atmosphere, remarkably gentle plot points, and romantic ending. This indicates that there is still an appetite for traditional romantic comedies that lack harsh cynicism.
Jordan Peele is a multi-talented actor and director who became a star in both the comedy and horror genres. He is a visionary filmmaker who brings a fresh perspective to whatever he creates. His horror films not only scare audiences, but they also confront issues such as racism and inequality head-on.
Peele is equally talented as an actor, having honed his craft on shows like MADtv and Key & Peele. His unique voice and perspective have earned him numerous awards and nominations. These days, he continues to be a significant driving force in Hollywood.
Peele got his start in the entertainment industry as part of the cast of the sketch comedy show MADtv in 2003. The show helped him gain recognition in the entertainment industry as a talented comedian and impressionist. He quickly became known for his spot-on impersonations of celebrities like Barack Obama, Morgan Freeman, and Samuel L. Jackson. His work on the show allowed him to write and produce comedy content, further showcasing his versatility and creativity.
Peele joined forces with fellow comedian Keegan-Michael Key to create their own sketch comedy series, Key & Peele, which aired on Comedy Central from 2012 to 2015. The show received immense critical and commercial success through its sharp writing and subversive humor.
The sketches tackled a wide range of social issues, from race and gender to politics and pop culture, often delivering a fresh perspective on topics rarely discussed in mainstream media. The show’s popularity also helped to elevate Peele’s profile in Hollywood and paved the way for his transition into directing.
Creation of MonkeyPaw Productions
“Laws protect us but they don’t change hearts and minds. Only stories can do that.” – @SueObeidi, director of Hollywood Bureau @mpac_national.
Peele’s production company, MonkeyPaw Productions, was founded in 2012 with the goal of creating genre-bending content that challenges traditional Hollywood norms. Peele wanted to provide a platform for underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry and promote diversity both on and off-screen.
One of the inspirations for the company’s name came from the classic horror show The Twilight Zone, which featured an episode titled “The Monkey’s Paw.” Peele’s love of horror and the macabre is evident in many of the projects produced by Monkeypaw, such as the hit horror film Get Out.
Peele made his movie directorial debut with Get Out in 2017, a critical and commercial success that ushered in a new era of horror movies. The film tackled issues of racism and identity in a unique and unsettling way, and critics praised Peele’s direction for its clever use of horror tropes to explore deeper themes. The success of Get Out cemented Peele’s reputation in the horror genre. In 2018, The film won Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Jordan Peele’s reboot of The Twilight Zone was a highly anticipated project that premiered in 2019. Peele’s vision for the show differed from the original, specifically due to the emphasis on social commentary and further exploring contemporary issues. Each episode tackled a different theme or topic, ranging from police brutality to technology addiction. Jordan intended to challenge viewers to think critically about the world around them.
Peele’s involvement in the show went beyond just executive producing. He also served as the show’s host and narrator, providing a chilling introduction to each episode. He even provided the voice for the iconic phrase, “You’re traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind.“
Peele has continued to produce and direct critically acclaimed films and TV shows, including Us. The 2019 horror film, written and directed by Jordan Peele, stars Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, and Elisabeth Moss. The movie follows a family confronted by their doppelgängers while on vacation.
Peele’s attention to detail and ability to weave social commentary into his horror films is on full display in Us. In addition to the gripping plot, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes, Peele’s use of music, particularly the use of the classic hip-hop track “I Got 5 on It,” has been widely praised as an ingenious way to build tension throughout the film.
In July 2022, Peele released his next horror film, Nope. In Nope, horse wrangler/trainer Otis “OJ” Haywood Jr (Daniel Kaluuya) tries to dodge the deadly attentions of whatever phenomenon is lurking in the sky, terrorizing his California ranch. Even though the Oscars snubbed Nope, its surreal sci-fi /horror extravaganza highlighted Peele’s ability to balance nuanced details.
Next up for Peele is a horror thriller from Monkey Paw, which will arrive on Sept. 27, 2024. Additionally, Peele and Universal are releasing an untitled fourth film directed by the Oscar winner arriving on Dec. 25, 2024.
Jordan Peele continues to be an ambitious and enterprising force in Hollywood through his innovative filmmaking approach and commitment to telling stories that push boundaries. His passion for tackling issues such as race, identity, and social justice guarantees that Jordan Peele will further cement his status as one of the most exciting voices in Hollywood today.
8 Mile is a biographical film that is loosely based on the early career of legendary Detroit MC, Eminem. The film, set in the mid-90s, follows Jimmy Smith Jr. a.k.a B-Rabbit (played by Eminem), a struggling young white rapper trying to carve out his lane in a genre created and defined by the African American experience. The film’s title is taken from 8 Mile Road, a highway that separated the primarily African American-inhabited city of Detroit and the largely white suburbs, north of Eminem’s stomping grounds.
The loosely based autobiographical film proved to be a Blockbuster hit, bringing in more than $200 million at the box office. The movie stands as one of hip-hop’s best autobiographical movies, partly due to Eminem’s incomparable career. Another reason why the movie is so iconic is because of the incredible plot and the cast ensemble that brought it to life. Mekhi Phifer, Brittany Murphy, Michael Shannon, Anthony Mackie, Kim Basinger, Omar Benson Miller, and Taryn Manning took on supporting roles in Eminem’s theatrical debut. 8 Mile also features cameos from rapper Obie Trice and Xzibit.
A majority of the cast went on to have stunning careers in Hollywood. Sadly, several actors who starred in the film passed away. De’Angelo Wilson, who portrayed Jimmy’s best friend DJ Iz, unfortunately, died from an apparent suicide in 2008. Brittany Murphy, who played Jimmy’s love interest, Alex, was pronounced dead in 2009 after suffering health complications related to pneumonia and amenia. The director of the film, Curtis Hanson, passed away from natural causes in 2016. Here is what the cast members have been up to after the success of the 8 Mile film.
Marshall “Eminem” Mathers – Jimmy a.k.a B-Rabbit
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 13: Eminem performs during the Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show at SoFi Stadium on February 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
What is there to say about Eminem that hasn’t already been said? Eminem is widely regarded for taking hip hop from the urban communities and inner cities to the suburban communities of America. His skill as a rapper, his influence, and the commercial success of his albums made him one of the greatest and best-selling rappers of all time. Global record sales for the Detroit native stand at around 200 million records.
Eminem dropped eight number-one solo albums, a chart-topping soundtrack for 8 Mile, and two greatest hits compilation albums since 2002. His latest LP, 2020’s Music to be Murdered By debuted at number one on the Billboard Chart, moving 279,000 units in the first week. He has won 15 Grammys, an Academy Award for “Lose Yourself,” 8 American Music Awards, and 17 Billboard Music Awards in the span of his career.
Eminem is the CEO of Shady Records, which he launched with his long-time manager Paul Rosenberg in 1999. He also has his own SiriusXM channel, Shade 45. Most recently, he took inspiration from the 8 Mile soundtrack to launch Mom’s Spaghetti Restaurant which he opened in 2021. Marshall has had a long-standing relationship with Nike and the Air Jordan brand. He occasionally releases limited edition Eminem sneakers based on iconic names such as the Air Force 1, the Jordan IVs, and the Air Max 90s.
Anthony Mackie – Papa Doc, Final Rap Battle Opponent
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 20: Anthony Mackie attends the UK Film Premiere of “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” at Westfield London on March 20, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Anthony Harvey/Getty Images)
8 Mile was actually Mackie’s first movie. He has starred in commercially successful and critically acclaimed movies like Million Dollar Baby and The Hurt Locker. He is also famously known for playing the late Tupac Shakur in Christopher “The Notorious B.I.G” Wallace’s biographical film, Notorious. The New Orleans native has also portrayed Martin Luther King Jr. in the HBO drama, All The Way.
Mackie has, in recent years, achieved global superstardom, thanks to his portrayal of Falcon and the new Captain America in the blockbuster machine that is the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Eventually, this led to a starring role in the Disney+ series, Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
Mackie has also been busy on the Netflix streaming platform appearing in the sci-fi series, Altered Carbon (2020). He has also starred in and produced the sci-fi movie, Outside the Wire (2021). The Marvel superstar has a new dramedy movie on the platform titled, We Have a Ghost. Mackie inked a deal to reprise the role of the new Captain America in the fourth sequel of the Captain America movies.
Taryn Manning – Janeane, Jimmy’s Ex-Girlfriend
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – AUGUST 11: Actress Taryn Manning attends a screening of “Karen” at Silverspot Cinema on August 11, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Manning is an actress and singer who most notably portrayed Tiffany “Pennstatucky” Doggett in Netflix’sOrange is the New Black. She also played the character of Cherry in Sons of Anarchy and Nola in the hip-hop-inspired drama film Hustle & Flow. The Virginia native frequently made cameos in other popular TV series like NYPD Blue, CSI: Miami, Boston Public, Hawaii Five-0, and Law & Order.
She has two chart-topping singles in the United States. “Send Me Your Love” reached number one in 2012, and “Turn It Up” number 21 in 2011. Taryn is currently filming a horror film titled The Skulleton where she will reportedly star alongside Tyrese Gibson.
Michael Shannon – Greg Buehl, Jimmy’s Former Classmate & Stephanie’s Boyfriend
TORONTO, ON – SEPTEMBER 11: Actor Michael Shannon arrives at the premiere of “Machine Gun Preacher” at Roy Thomson Hall during the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival on September 11, 2011 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
Michael is one of the few Hollywood thespians to achieve success on the big screen, the silver screen, and on stage. His career took off with appearances in Groundhog Day, nearly a decade before 8 Mile. Michael went on to star in critically acclaimed films such as Lucky You, Revolutionary Road, and The Broken Tower. He has also had his own fair share of blockbuster films such as Bad Boys II, Machine Gun Preacher, Bullet Train, and the comic book movie Man of Steel where he plays the antagonist, General Zod.
Michael’s latest TV pursuit is his portrayal of George Jones in the American drama miniseries George & Tammy. The show airs on Showtime and co-stars Jessica Chastain as Tammy Wynette. He has also starred in Waco, Little Drummer Girl, Nine Perfect Strangers, and Little Demon. The Kentucky native also has an active career on the theater stage. He has performed in over 30 plays between 1991 and 2023. Michael has won two Screen Actors Guild Awards for his role in the drama series, Boardwalk Empire.
Kim Basinger – Stephanie, Jimmy’s Mother
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 19: Kim Basinger attends the Last Chance for Animals’ 35th anniversary gala at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on October 19, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images)
Basinger moved to Los Angeles and transitioned into acting after a brief career in modeling in New York. Her global fame came when she appeared in Playboy magazine in 1983. That same year, she starred in her breakout role as Bond girl, Domino Petachi, in the James Bond sequel Never Say Never Again, alongside Sean Connery. After 2002’s 8 Mile, Basinger appeared in popular movies such as The Nice Guys (2016) and Fifty Shades Darker (2017).
Mekhi Phifer – Future, Jimmy’s Best Friend
Mekhi Phifer at the season 3 premiere of Apple’s “Truth Be Told” held at Pacific Design Center on January 19, 2023 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
The New York native is largely known for starring as Dr. Gregg Pratt in the medical drama series, ER. He had numerous appearances on the big screen in films like Honey, and Dawn Of The Dead. Still, the actor is more known for his roles in TV. Besides ER, Mekhi has had recurring roles in TV shows including Fox’s Lie to Me, British sci-fi series Torchwood, Showtime’s House of Lies, and Love, Victor which is on the Hulu streaming platform.
Evan Jones – Cheddar Bob, Jimmy’s Friend
Evan Jones during “8 Mile” Westwood Premiere at Mann Village Theatre in Westwood, California, United States. (Photo by SGranitz/WireImage)
Evan has had a low-key acting career compared to his 8 Mile co-stars, though his credits are quite expansive. Since 8 Mile, he starred in several films including The Book of Eli alongside Denzel Washington, Seth MacFarlane’s comedy, A Million Ways to Die in the West, 50 Cent’s Den of Thieves, and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Volume II. He has made episode cameos on ER, House, CSI: NY, Hawaii Five-0, Criminal Minds, and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow. Evans’ last appearance in a movie was in 2018 with his roles in Den of Thieves, Hotel Artemis, and the TV movie Cagney and Lacey where he played a detective.
Omar Benson Miller – Sol George, Jimmy’s Friend
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 24: Omar Benson Miller speaks during the “True Lies” exclusive screening and Q&A with cast and creators at WonderCon 2023 at Anaheim Convention Center on March 24, 2023 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Chelsea Guglielmino/Getty Images)
From Spike Lee’s Miracle of St. Anna (2008) to Eleventh Hour, Omar Benson Miller continued to have a thriving career post-8 Mile. He’s had long-standing roles in popular TV series such as CSI: Miami (playing Walter Simmons) and Ballers (playing Charles Greane). Omar has repeatedly reprised the voice of Raphael, both in animation and in film, from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Franchise. He currently stars in the action-thriller television series True Lies. Shortly after 8 Mile, he also appeared in 50 Cent’s autobiographical movie, Get Rich or Die Tryin’ as Karlo.
Teyana Taylor may have taken a step back from music, but her talents are shining through in other ways. The 32-year-old singer has returned to her acting career, starring in the drama A Thousand and One. She has received endless praise for her role as single mother, Inez, who kidnaps her son Terry from the foster care system. The film won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance and received a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes since debuting in theaters. Speaking with Interview Magazine about her journey, Taylor says she couldn’t have imagined it.
“At 16, I was still thinking about skateboards,” Taylor laughed when speaking with interviewer Jeremy O. Harris. The mother of two and wife to retired NBA pro-Iman Shumpert, Taylor says her own mother, Nikki Taylor, helped her transform into Inez. She praised Nikky for working diligently to provide, despite Taylor’s longing for quality time as a child. After signing her first record deal with Pharrell, Nikki quit her job immediately. She would then become her daughter’s manager and a big part of Taylor’s success.
Teyana Taylor Praises New Film “A Thousand And One”
Taylor describes her role of Inez as embodying the hardworking women in her life. Continuing to gloat over her mother, Taylor admits Nikki harbors a lot of guilt for the lack of time she spent with her due to work. However, she maintains that she appreciates her mother’s sacrifices. As a mom herself now, the adored fashionista better understands the love of a mother. The role of Inez also demonstrates such compromises, as she risks her freedom simply to love her child.
This powerful film is the latest endeavor in Taylor’s post-music career. In 2020, she confirmed that she was retiring from recording. This decision followed a botched release of her LP “The Album,” which didn’t get much push from G.O.O.D Music/Def Jam. Still, the project debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums. Sadly, “The Album” was snubbed during the 2021 Grammy’s ceremony for Best R&B Album. Judging by her current success, Taylor doesn’t necessarily need music. Though, her fans remain hopeful that one day she’ll change her mind.
Dua Lipa debuts as a Barbie you never knew you wanted. The “Levitating” singer takes on her first acting role in the new movie based on the famous Mattel doll. The film, simply called Barbie, is directed by Greta Gerwig. The director is best known for her work on the recent films, Lady Bird and Little Women.Both were nominated for Academy Awards. As such, it’s unlikely that we will be looking at a straightforward film about living dolls. The first teaser didn’t provide much information, but it did give us a look into the neon world created for the movie.
For those unfamiliar with her previous work, Dua Lipa is a British singer, songwriter, and model. Dua’s career began in 2015 when she signed a contract with Warner Bros. Records and released her debut single “New Love.” Then, in 2016, she had a breakthrough hit with “Be the One”. Her debut album was released the following year, featuring the viral single “New Rules.” Dua has won multiple awards for her music, including two Grammy Awards. Her second album, Future Nostalgia, was released in 2020. It gave birth to the chart-topping hits “Levitating” and “Don’t Start Now.” Subsequently, it seems that Dua is making her way into acting.
In a tweet from the official Barbie movie account, character posters introducing the cast were shared. “Meet our Barbies and Kens,” the account says in the tweet. The post includes pictures of cast members like Margot Robbie, who plays the titular character. Other cast members with their own posters were Kingsley Ben-Adir, Hari Nef, Emma Mackey, Ana Cruz Kayne, Scott Evans, Sharon Rooney, Emerald Fennell, and of course, Dua Lipa herself.
In her poster, Dua appears as a blue-haired mermaid Barbie adorned in pearls and shells. Fans had previously speculated that the pop star would appear in the film, and now it seems they were correct. The tweet gives little more information about her part in the film. Still, it offers fans the confirmation they’ve been looking for. Dua definitely delivers in her music, but how will she fare in her new role as an actress? Overall, we’ll have to wait until Barbie releases on July 21 to find out.
Tap in and read all about their mission to fight anti-Muslim hate. 
