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7 Rappers Who Starred in Horror Movies

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In the dynamic world of entertainment, it’s not uncommon for artists to explore realms beyond their primary craft. Rappers, who are known for their lyrical prowess and stage charisma, have occasionally stepped into the genre of horror. Whether it’s the rhythmic flow of verses or the heart-pounding suspense of a horror plot, these artists have excelled in both. Let’s delve into the crossover between rap music and horror movies as we explore the eerie cinematic ventures of seven notable rappers.

Busta Rhymes In Halloween: Resurrection (2002)

When it comes to merging the world of rap with horror, few can do it as memorably as Busta Rhymes. In the 2002 film, Halloween: Resurrection, Busta brings his versatile stage presence as a rapper to the big screen. Up against horror icon Michael Myers, the rapper’s performance adds a new flavor to the classic slasher franchise. As the character Freddie Harris, Busta’s charisma and energy shine through in this blood-chilling installment as he takes on “The Shape.”

Rah Digga In Thir13en Ghosts (2001)

Rah Digga, a member of Busta Rhymes’s Flipmode Squad, brings her own distinct style to the character of Maggie Bess in Thir13en Ghosts. Bess is a tough and resourceful nanny who becomes entangled in the mysteries of the eerie glass house filled with malevolent spirits. Her performance adds a layer of authenticity to the film, proving that the synergy between rap and horror can extend beyond the expected. Rah Digga rises to the occasion and meets the demands of the haunting narrative.

Snoop Dogg In Bones (2001)

Snoop Dogg left his mark in the horror with 2001’s Bones (2001). The “Gin and Juice” rapper plays Jimmy Bones, a murdered hood legend who returns for revenge. Snoop’s deep voice and laid-back demeanor bring a distinctive vibe to the horror landscape.

Ice Cube In Anaconda (1997)

Known for starring in classic comedy and crime movies, Ice Cube is no stranger to the world of film — and it’s safe to say that his step into the horror genre is just as captivating. In the creature feature Anaconda (1997), Cube faces off against a monstrous snake in the Amazon. The film also features Jennifer Lopez and John Voight. Anaconda is one movie you can’t miss.

Ice-T In Leprechaun 5: In the Hood (2000)

Ice-T, a pioneer in gangsta rap, leaped into horror with Leprechaun 5: In the Hood. This comedic horror film takes the Leprechaun mythos to the inner city. Ice-T’s performance as Mack Daddy, a ruthless pimp, adds a layer of humor to the otherwise chilling tale. Ice-T’s transition from gritty urban narratives to battling supernatural creatures showcases his range as an artist and an actor.

Sticky Fingaz In Leprechaun 2: Back in the Hood (2003)

Sticky Fingaz, who’s known for his role in the rap group Onyx, becomes another rap icon included in the Leprechaun movie franchise. In Leprechaun 2: Back In The Hood, Sticky Fingaz brings a raw intensity to the film, navigating the twists and turns of the horror-comedy with the same energy that defined his music career.

LL Cool J In Halloween H20 (1998)

LL Cool J, a multi-talented artist known for being a rapper and actor stars in Halloween H20. In this installment, LL Cool J plays Ronny, a security guard caught in the crosshairs of Michael Myers. The rapper’s charismatic on-screen presence and ability to connect with audiences make him a standout in this eerie picture.

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Idris Elba’s Most Compelling Roles

June 6, 2023 by newhiphopnews

For years, Idris Elba has cemented himself as one of the most captivating and diverse actors in the industry. His continued success is undoubtedly due to his remarkable versatility. Speculation persists that he may soon become the next James Bond after Daniel Craig departs. Along with his latest venture Hijack, which he also produced, the 50-year-old has portrayed a multitude of characters. From animated police officers to a brilliant criminal mastermind, Idris has been garnering an impressive assortment of awards and nominations in the process. If you’re looking for Idris Elba movies, here are some of his most compelling roles.

7. Shere Khan – The Jungle Book (2016)

Idris Elba showcases his remarkable talent as the voice of Shere Khan in the 2016 remake of Rudyard Kipling’s timeless classic. He artfully evokes Khan’s maliciousness, accentuating his emotions with his signature baritone and conveying a vengeful dialog resplendent with gravity. From their first confrontation, Khan ominously questions Mowgli’s value of life. Favreau’s retelling is a nail-biting escape film as opposed to an animated romp.

6. Heimdall – Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Idris Elba’s portrayal of Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been a masterclass in acting. His take on the All-Seeing guardian of the Bifrost is one of wry humor and confident screen presence. Additionally, his loyalty was often tested by circumstances that required him to commit treason against Odin. For instance, he aided Thor in hiding Jane Foster from Malekith in Thor: The Dark World, driven by a desire to protect Asgard from an even greater danger. Similarly, in Thor: Ragnarok, Elba shines as Heimdall hides the people of Asgard from Hela and works towards reuniting them with Thor. Despite his understated role, Elba left viewers yearning for more of the All-Seeing One until he met his demise in Avengers: Infinity War.

5. Stacker Pentecost – Pacific Rim (2013)

When the future of the world hangs precariously in the balance, who better to call on than Stacker Pentecost? As portrayed by Elba, this resolute leader of the Pan Pacific Defence Corps proves incredibly inspiring. From delivering motivational speeches to channeling an imposing demeanor towards Charlie Hunnam’s Raleigh Becket, Elba masterfully conveys Pentecost’s sense of duty and commitment to saving mankind. Furthermore, the actor’s powerful performance is a perfect foil to Del Toro’s electric, vibrant style, further enhanced by a suave mustache. All in all, this is one of those Idris Elba movies that cements his place as a go-to star for action adventures.

4. Nelson Mandela – Mandela: The Long Walk To Freedom (2013)

Idris Elba fearlessly took on the daunting challenge of portraying South Africa’s beloved anti-Apartheid leader and activist Nelson Mandela. To prepare, he spent a night on Robben Island, near the cell where Mandela once served his 27-year imprisonment. In doing so, Elba brought all facets of Mandela’s life to the screen. Through his hard-hitting portrayal, Elba humanized the injustice of Apartheid laws and governance while also commemorating the real-life Mandela. Sadly, on the night of its London premiere, the film became a tribute to Mandela who had passed just hours prior at age 95.

3. Commandant – Beasts Of No Nation (2015)

Idris Elba is a force to be reckoned with in Beasts Of No Nation. As the enigmatic Commandant, he commands the viewer’s attention, delivering an unwavering portrayal of a man consumed by a grizzly war. His presence is both authoritative and monstrous, making a palpable portrayal of the brutality of conflict and exposing its grim reality. Elba seamlessly navigates between a heroic leader and a callous killer, embodying the moral ambiguity inherent in armed struggle. His charisma awakens in us a fear that somehow we are meant to sympathize with this man. On the other hand, our conscience revolts at the atrocities he perpetrates. With an all but unequaled acting prowess, Elba conveys the horror of battle in all its unadulterated cruelty. Undoubtedly, Beasts of No Nation will go down as of the best Idris Elba movies.

2. John Luther – Luther (2010 – 2019)

Idris Elba’s portrayal of DCI John Luther is legendary. His signature style – a grey coat, red tie, and grey shirt – has become emblematic of the beloved detective, who tirelessly navigates crime scenes, criminal underworlds, and an enigmatic relationship with Alice Morgan (Ruth Wilson). With wit and moral complexity, Elba masterfully paints a character that consistently teeters between the darkness and the light. Through this iconic role, Elba has cemented his status as a famous figure on British television.

Idris Elba’s unique vocal accent is a treat to behold in the BBC show, allowing him to showcase his captivating tones without alteration. His character, Luther, strikes an interesting contrast between his cool composure and uncompromising wrath—one never knows when he may burst forth with rage, making for a riveting viewing experience.

1. Stringer Bell – The Wire (2002 – 2004)

With immense poise, Idris Elba captivated viewers in The Wire as Stringer Bell – a multifaceted character who strategically directs a drug empire and isn’t afraid to commit lethal deeds. A true visionary, Stringer remains driven to better himself, even while exuding an air of authority far surpassing his nominal rank. Through Elba’s nuanced portrayal, we observe a masterful reflection of strength and insight, making the audience well aware of why this performance became one of Elba’s most iconic. It is no wonder that when most people consider Elba’s acting career, Stringer Bell is among the first characters they recall; such is the excellence of this performance.

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Best Basketball Movies of All Time, From “He Got Game” To “Space Jam”

May 2, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Basketball is truly an enthralling sport, captivating the interest of players, fans, and filmmakers alike. Being one of the most popular sports of the modern era, basketball has inspired awe-inspiring stories. The tales are firmly rooted in culture and tradition. Basketball’s most significant moments, from high-stakes competition to underdog narratives, can be found on the court and enshrined on the silver screen. Hollywood capitalizes on these remarkable tales of hard work, passion, and determination to create blockbuster productions. From award-winning classics to heartwarming dramas, basketball-centered films always promises a good story that will draw audiences in and make them stay. Here are (arguably) the best basketball movies of all time.

7. Sunset Park (1996)

Gather around for the beloved chant of Sunset Park. Springing from the minds and voices of teenagers in the late 1990s, this mantra has become a nostalgic reminder of times gone by. Featuring Rhea Perlman, Fredro Starr, and future Oscar-nominee Terrance Howard, this film offers an insightful look into the on-court dynamics of a high school basketball team composed of misfits.
Upon the arrival of new coach Phyllis Saroka, the players initially met her presence with skepticism. However, they eventually understood that she was just as much their parent as their coach. With a combination of humor and heartwarming moments, Sunset Park offers a thought-provoking examination of the strong bond between a coach and a student.

6. Space Jam (1996)

Harking back to the ‘90s, many a childhood was graced by the beloved classic film Space Jam. Frothy with fun and frivolity, the show catapulted basketball icon Michael Jordan into a world of cartoon legends and pitted them against the formidable Monstars. The game reached a crescendo with the unforgettable opening track by Quad City DJs, providing viewers with an exhilarating and nostalgic experience. Few films can rival this joyous romp through space and time, reminding us that it’s often more important to have a good time than to adhere to facts.

5. The Way Back (2020)

Starring Ben Affleck, The Way Back is a poignant tale of grief, hope, and resilience. Jack’s descent into despair is arrested by an offer to coach basketball at his former school, supported by his assistant coach Dan (Al Madrigal) and wife Angela (Janina Gavankar). Yet Jack’s journey back from the brink isn’t without challenges, culminating in a powerful confrontation of anguish and redemption. Affleck delivers a stellar performance that shows how powerful small moments of courage can be in the best basketball movies.

4. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)

Starring Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes, White Men Can’t Jump is a hilariously entertaining movie that follows an unlikely duo. While comedy takes center stage, Harrelson and Snipes deliver remarkable displays of basketball prowess that grace the audience. His partner in crime, Sidney Deane (Snipes), sees beyond this misconception and encourages the pair to use their skills for money. As their friendship builds, so does their success in pick-up games throughout the metropolis. The film dives into the bond between two men of different backgrounds, connected by their love of basketball and financial struggles. While comedy takes center stage, the audience is also graced with remarkable displays of basketball prowess.

3. Hoop Dreams (1994)

Two teenagers from Chicago’s south side had a dream: to make it big in basketball no matter what. Caught between two worlds of luxury and necessity, William Gates attended a wealthy private school while Arthur Agee was obliged to enroll in the local public one. Struggling against the odds, they faced serious obstacles, be it poor grades, drug-addicted parents, or tragic losses on their way to success. This film reveals this harsh reality and shows the significance of basketball in these inner-city lives.

2. He Got Game (1996)

Jesse Shuttlesworth’s joy of basketball began while watching his father, Jake, play. However, when Jesse became a highly sought-after high school prospect, Jake had an idea. It would earn him an early release from prison if he could convince Jesse to attend the governor’s alma mater. The tension between the two was palpable on-screen. In the end, Denzel Washington’s impressive skills were showcased through a real-time game of one-on-one, which determined their reconciliation. Overall, He Got Game takes us on an emotionally-driven journey between two people bound by love and hardship.

1. Hoosiers (1986)

Crafted with cinematic brilliance, Hoosiers deserves its place amongst the best basketball movies ever. Set in Indiana, home to one of basketball’s birthplaces, this celebrated tale focuses on a humble small town and its attempt to defy expectations and claim a state title. Hackman’s remarkable portrayal of a coach adeptly elucidated the team’s tribulations. Hoosiers paint an indelible portrait of how our toughest battles often occur away from the playing field.

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Queen Latifah Movies: Her Best Roles

April 21, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Queen Latifah is a superstar of her time, renowned for her rapping skills, and lauded as one of the top actresses in Hollywood today. She broke into film in the early ’90s and has since stockpiled over a hundred roles on television and cinema screens. In 2002, Latifah snatched an Academy Award nomination for her part in the big-screen version of Chicago. To celebrate this powerhouse of talent, we’ve developed the top favorite Queen Latifah movies, showing off an impressive variety of genres from drama to family films, comedy to musicals. Her presence is unmistakable whenever she appears on screen, so brimming with charisma and assurance that it’s no wonder we love her. Her unique range allows her to shine through each one, proving why she reigns supreme in the business.

7. Gina – Beauty Shop (2005)

Latifah is confident, and Beauty Shop is a delightfully amusing story of a woman taking control of her life. Not content to simply mimic Barbershop, this film has a much more believable narrative that goes beyond stand-up comedy or pratfalls. Queen Latifah leads as Gina, who recently moved from Chicago to Atlanta (where she made a brief appearance in the second installment of Barbershop). Consequently, her talent quickly lands her on top at a grand salon owned by the enigmatic Jorge Christophe, who happens to be the only man in the movie.

The beauty of movies of this nature is they can become a platform for larger-than-life characters. It’s like a variety show where each character has their moment to shine, such as when Miss Josephine, played by Alfre Woodard, gives a passionate rendition of Maya Angelou’s classic poem “Still I Rise.”

6. Ellie – Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006)

Latifah takes the lead role in the Ice Age franchise as Ellie, opposite Ray Romano’s Manny. Ellie and Manny, two woolly mammoths endangered by their ongoing animosity, embark on a daring quest to save their pal Sid the Sloth (John Leguizamo). Along with them come Crash (Sean William Scott) and Eddie (Josh Peck), Ellie’s mischievous brothers, two possums who constantly defy authority. With climate warming quickly, they have no choice but to race to the other side of the valley if they want to save Sid.

5. August Boatwright – The Secret Life of Bees (2008)

The Secret Life of Bees vividly depicts 1964 rural South Carolina, providing hope and light in enchanting parable form. Queen Latifah shone as August Boatwright, a mysterious figure trading in honey harvested from content bees. Her performance was remarkable. She lives with her two sisters, June (Alicia Keys) and May (Sophie Okonedo). Critics praised and commended Latifah’s masterful portrayal of Boatwright for giving the picture its backbone.

4. Cleo – Set It Off (1996)

Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film follows four African American women from the inner-city struggling financially. Desperate to improve their situation, they hatch an audacious plan to rob several banks in Los Angeles. Despite initial success, disagreements arise, leading to mistrust among them. Meanwhile, the brother of a slain policeman is on their tail. Queen Latifah stars as Cleo and received an NAACP Image Award nomination for her outstanding acting in this movie.

3. Miracles From Heaven (2016)

Anna Beam was a cheerful 10-year-old girl whose life changed after she developed a rare, incurable illness. Desperate to find a cure, her mother, Christy (Jennifer Garner), embarked on a relentless pursuit. Astonishingly, Anna made an incredible recovery after a near-fatal mishap that even baffled experts. Queen Latifah played Angela, a compassionate waitress who offered solace to the joyful young girl. Inspired by the true story of Christy Beam’s book Miracles From Heaven, this is one of those Queen Latifah movies that proves that anything is possible.

2. Bessie Smith – Bessie (2015)

Queen Latifah took on a daunting task when she agreed to star in the biopic of Bessie Smith. She stepped forward after a decade of hesitance, captivating the audience with her stirring portrayal marked by passion and profound intensity. She proves her skill and range as an actor, encompassing various emotions from longing to indignation. Latifah’s remarkable performance captivated viewers, conveying a vivid impression of real-life truth.

1. Mama Morton – Chicago (2002)

The decision to cast Queen Latifah as Matron Mama Morton in the movie Chicago was a highly contentious choice. Two bold singers, Velma and Roxie, find themselves behind bars, desperately needing aid from an unscrupulous lawyer. Thanks to her performance in Chicago, Latifah received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The movie ultimately won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Tom Hanks Movies: The Actor’s Best

April 19, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It would be unjust to claim Tom Hanks movies are unvaried, with only one form of the fundamentally decent, all-American Everyman to his name. On the contrary, the actor continuously furnishes evidence of his versatility. Examining his filmography, he has transformed himself from a leading man in Sleepless In Seattle to comedic relief in Bachelor Party and a polyphonic performance in Cloud Atlas. No matter which notes he strikes, Hanks always hits it distinctly. To honor this laudable feat, here is our ultimate appraisal of the Tom Hanks movies.

10. Splash (1984)

In what could have been an improbable story, Splash marked a breakthrough for its lead actor, Tom Hanks. Even so, thanks to the renowned screenplay penned by Lowell Ganz, Babaloo Mandel, and Bruce Jay Friedman, audiences were given a glimpse of Hanks’ potential movie stardom. It told the tale of a young man (Hanks) reunited with his mermaid savior (Daryl Hannah) two decades later. Despite what could have been a ludicrous plot, the writers handled it adeptly, while Hanks’ performance aptly mirrored the delicate tones of their work. Additionally, with the success of Splash came the birth of a movie icon.

9. Philadephia (1993)

At a noteworthy moment in Hanks’ early-’90s glory days, he earned an Oscar for portraying a gay man with HIV who had been wrongfully discharged from his job. Intuitively incorporating “liberal balancing” by partnering Hanks with Denzel Washington as the soon-to-be repentant homophobic attorney, this film sparked new discourse about straight actors playing LGBTQ roles. However, there was no more unmistakable message of understanding and respect than casting Hanks. While it is an industry-issue movie, marked by its self-awareness, Hanks conveys both smarts and compassion.

8. Sleepless In Seattle (1993)

Tom Hanks’ performance in Sleepless in Seattle stands out so distinctly; it’s no wonder he’s held in such high regard. He plays Sam, a heartbroken widower bound to fall for Meg Ryan as the love-struck reporter with dreams of an affair to remember. Thanks to the magic and charm of Nora Ephron, this classic feel-good yarn gives us something wonderfully warm and fulfilling. Hanks brings a sensitive touch to his character: the nice guy next door, the one everyone can easily crush on — so innocent yet so appealing.

7. The Post (2017)

Late in his career, Hanks has become an undeniable audience favorite, embodying a type of reassurance that whatever he is involved in will turn out alright. Consequently, he takes on the role originally played by Jason Robards in All the President’s Men, bringing his own degree of authenticity and sincerity to the character of Ben Bradlee. As customary, there is never any doubt that Hanks is on the right side; what’s more, he is willing to challenge himself and recognize his errors – it just makes it easier to root for his characters. Furthermore, his later roles have displayed an endearing grumpiness, and it’s a wonder he hasn’t played a journalist before as it fits him like a tailored coat from days gone by.

6. Apollo 13 (1995)

Jim Lovell’s immortal words, “Houston, we have a problem,” may be all you remember of the Best Picture nominee Apollo 13. As an eye-opener, go back and watch. You’ll witness Tom Hanks portraying Jim Lovell in an unrelenting, no-frills fashion as he endeavors to keep his comrades (Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon) focused during the crisis. As a result, it’s a performance that can be easily neglected, yet Hanks gives it an unwavering power. He displays the heroics of not wholly losing your head in the face of a calamity. Apollo 13 will go down as one best Tom Hanks movies.

5. A League Of Their Own (1992)

Hanks donned flab for his starring role as Jimmy Dugan, the alcoholic, gruff manager of a women’s baseball team. A League of Their Own was an interesting point for Hanks in his career—a rebound from Bonfire of the Vanities preceding his back-to-back Oscars. It’s amusing to see him hurl insults left and right. Nonetheless, beneath Dugan’s tough exterior lies a heart of gold, and his shallow character could have been a parody but Hanks, with all his charm and benevolence, elevates the movie.

4. Cast Away (2000)

After receiving a near-Robert De Niro–level physical transformation, Tom Hanks embodied a FedEx executive in Cast Away. He is stranded on a desert island after a plane crash. Eventually, Hanks’ character grapples with solitude and discovers an impetus to continue living. The actor endowed this intimate and primal performance with great intensity, expressing that even the most unwavering individuals have their limits. His portrayal of fierce determination, within his trademark good-natured persona, was slightly daunting yet captivating.

3. A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood (2019)

Tom Hanks created a masterful performance as Fred Rogers, an iconic children’s TV star from the 1960s who reigned for decades. Matthews Rhys stars alongside him as a hardened magazine journalist sent to interview Rogers. Rather, Hanks crafts a complex and distinct character with unique physical and vocal mannerisms contrasting his perceived ”aw-shucks” style. Most notable is when he asks Rhys to sit silently for a full minute.

2. Toy Story (1995)

Woody, voiced by Tom Hanks in the beloved Pixar Toy Story films, is quite a remarkable character. An antiquated pull-string cowboy toy, he is the favorite of Andy, much to the dismay of Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen). Representing an old Western figure pushed aside by space-exploration-inspired science fiction, his vocal performance casts a spell of pure delight upon the audience. This casting is one of Hanks’s most beautiful and sorrowful moments. It puts him to the test in terms of acting challenges more so than in other movies. This is especially prevalent in Toy Story 2, when his previous toy pals suggest that he forget about pleasing kids whose love will surely fade. Marvelousness ensues.

1. Forrest Gump (1994)

Tom Hanks received a second consecutive Best Actor Oscar for his iconic performance in Forrest Gump. Twenty-nine years since its release, it is still considered one of the best Tom Hanks movies. Director Robert Zemeckis is credited for his work on the film, yet Hanks’ portrayal truly stands out. He never portrays Forrest as an idiot; instead, there’s a sincerity to the character that makes him endearing to viewers. His purity is admirable, as he is loving, trusting, and curious without being a liar. If only we were all like Forrest.

Brad Pitt’s Best Movie Roles, Ranked

April 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In a career spanning over 30 years, Brad Pitt starred in dozens of movies that turned him into one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors. Of course, that list is only going to continue to grow with time as he picks up new roles alongside veterans and budding stars. For example, Damson Idris of Snowfall and Swarm fame was just added to the cast of an upcoming Pitt film about Formula One. It’s yet untitled and the details are incredibly scarce, but the pairing of Idris and Pitt alone built enough anticipation around the upcoming Apple Original Film.

Pitt made his acting debut in the late 1980s in Fox’s 21 Jump Street before landing his first major role in 1989’s Cutting Class. Since then, he starred in over 80 projects in both film and television. His latest performance was in the divisive Damian Chazelle film Babylon alongside Margot Robbie, who’s about to star in the Barbie movie. Pitt has starred in all kinds of films, but which ones are his best?

10. 12 Years a Slave (2013)

It’s hard to ignore Brad Pitt’s performance in 12 Years a Slave. The movie took home three Academy Awards in 2014, including Best Picture. Though Brad Pitt didn’t take on a main role, his character, Samuel Bass, played a critical part in the story. Bass was determined to actively help slaves. Pitt brought Bass’s moral dilemma to life as he tried to help Solomon gain freedom. A lesser actor might have struggled with a role like that.

9. Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

Mr. & Mrs. Smith may not be the most iconic role of his career, though, it is one of the most enjoyable Brad Pitt movies out there. He and Angelina Jolie, naturally, had excellent on-screen chemistry as a married couple that doubled as assassins for rival agencies. Filled with hilarious dialogue and action-packed sequences, Pitt and Jolie’s performances in Mr & Mrs. Smith worked flawlessly with one another.

The on-screen chemistry between actors often determines how good a film is. In this case, it’s the driving factor. This movie doesn’t work if the relationship between the two main characters doesn’t initially come across as real. Without Pitt (and probably Jolie), it would have been a complete flop.

8. 12 Monkeys (1995)

12 Monkeys is one of Pitt’s best on-screen performances. Pitt plays a mental patient Jeffrey Goines in Terry Gilliam’s sci-fi drama. It’s a convincing performance that the movie doesn’t make enough use of. The film centers around time travel and briefly introduces Goines. Though Pitt only appears in the movie for a short amount of time, he left an incredible mark that earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Academy Awards.

7. Bullet Train (2022)

Bullet Train shouldn’t have been as good as it was. It’s a paper-thin plot with ridiculously over-the-top action and brutal violence, not to mention a lot of profanities. It easily can be boxed in as a mindless action movie, but everyone loved it, thanks to Pitt’s stellar performance as American operative Ladybug. His comedic timing has never been better. Each one-liner he threw out in the middle of a blistering train ride or brutal fight landed perfectly. The running bit of his therapy sessions while also fighting others was comedic gold. Comedy is a hard genre for actors to master, but Pitt did it here with ease.

6. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

Ocean’s Eleven is perhaps the quintessential Pitt role. Of all his movies, this is one of the most iconic performances. It features an All-Star cast that would be easy for anyone to get lost in, yet, he finds a way to stick out every time he’s on screen. Acting alongside Matt Damon, George Clooney, Julia Roberts and so many more titans of industry can be intimidating, but not for Pitt. He captured his role as Rusty Ryan to a tee and carries the movie along with him. It probably wasn’t a difficult role to embody, but his performance was pitch-perfect nonetheless.

5. Burn After Reading (2008)

Burn After Reading is easily one of the most outrageous movies of Brad Pitt’s career. The movie begins with a pretty eye-catching premise and only gets more brazen as the movie goes on. Pitt has played all kinds of roles, but the “dumb blonde” he puts on as Chad Feldheimer is impressive. Brad Pitt is clearly quite competent, but Feldheimer is so naive and half-witted. It’s a wondrous performance that showcases Brad Pitt’s acting chops shine in a comedic setting.

4. Inglorious Basterds (2009)

By 2009, Brad Pitt appeared in countless box office hits but some might consider Quentin Tarantino’s Inglorious Basterds to be a career turn for him. Pitt’s portrayal of the character Lieutenant Aldo Raine is incredible. Though it may have been difficult to tap into a character from an entirely different time period, playing a World War II American soldier comes surprisingly easy for Pitt.

3. Moneyball (2011)

Moneyball is an excellent movie for a lot of reasons. The script is tight, the direction is excellent and the source material admittedly makes for a magical film. Still, it’s Pitt’s performance that rises above and makes for one of his best movies. Billy Beane was brought to life with such respect and admiration by the actor. This movie had the tall task of telling one of baseball’s most interesting and important stories. Modern baseball is the way it is because of these Oakland Athletics and Pitt carries the weight of that on his shoulders effortlessly. Though the movie was released over a decade ago, Pitt came through with a timeless performance.

2. Fight Club (1999)

The more unhinged a character, the more demanding it is on the actor. There’s probably no character in any of Brad Pitt’s movies that are as unhinged as Tyler Durden in Fight Club. The deranged psyche of the main character manifesting as another person definitely required an exceptional actor with range. Thankfully, that’s exactly what Pitt gave. He was perfect as the figment of Edward Norton’s imagination and it’s his absurd antics and behavior that make it one of his most convincing performances. The premise of Fight Club is pretty wild but it required a central performance to drive it.

1. Se7en (1995)

Se7en isn’t exactly the best of all Brad Pitt movies, but it is his best performance yet. It’s telling that one quote from that movie has lived on longer and stronger than any from the other 80+ projects he has been in. “What’s in the box?” is a fixture in pop culture jargon almost three full decades later.

A murder mystery, particularly one as compelling as the one presented in Se7en, demands strong lead performances. Without them, the audience won’t really be invested in them. The development of each character makes it more than just a surface-level mystery. Credit to Morgan Freeman, but Brad Pitt is what makes this movie tick.

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Lauren London’s Best Movies

April 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Starting her career as a model, Lauren London later started making appearances in television shows and movies. Her breakout role was as “New New” in ATL alongside T.I., but the actress’s resumé goes far beyond the fan favorite film. She’s recently starred alongside Jonah Hill, Nia Long, and Eddie Murphy in You People, which set Netflix ablaze. We’ll walk you through a few of London’s noteworthy roles as we revisit her career highlights, in no particular order.

Lauren London Movies: Early Life

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 27: Lauren London attends the BET Awards 2021 at Microsoft Theater on June 27, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

Lauren London was born in Los Angeles on December 5, 1984. She started out as a model, then appeared in music videos of popular stars before moving on to movies and TV shows. Her roles in the movies like ATL and Entourage have earned her recognition. Since then, she has continued to press forward with her career. Albeit, London took a break following the death of her partner Nipsey Hussle, but it seems she’s back in the groove.

7. ALT (2006)

ATL is an American comedy-drama movie from 2006 about teens maturing in Atlanta. In this movie, Lauren London starred as Erin “New New” Garnett, who is Rashad’s love interest and the daughter of John Garnett. This movie features four teenagers from a working-class family living in an Atlanta neighbourhood getting ready for life after high school. It’s a film about growing up, getting a job, falling in love, and learning the importance of friends. Also, this movie is well-received by critics and you should check it out if you haven’t seen it!

6. I Love You, Beth Cooper (2009)

In 2009, London Lauren starred in this teen comedy movie where she played the role of Cammy. I Love You, Beth Cooper is heavily reliant on shallow teen comedic clichés. In this movie, Denis (Paul Rust), a nerdy adolescent, has a secret crush on Beth Cooper (Hayden Panettiere), the hottest girl in high school. Definitely, this is one of the few movies where you want the hero to wake up and find out that everything was a dream.

5. You People (2023)

You People is Lauren London’s most recent movie. This film is a romantic comedy and in this movie, Lauren London played Ezra’s (Jonah Hill) first love. However, their drama started when their parent find out they are of different beliefs. This led to them having to deal with the push and pull of their families. The star-studded cast rounded out the comedy, but the film was still heavily debated on social media.

4. Without Remorse(2021)

Without Remorse, which is also known as Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse, is an action thriller movie. It is based on Clancy’s 1993 novel of the same name. In this movie, Lauren London played the role of Pam Kelly, who was killed while pregnant and married to John Kelly. Without Remorse depicts a story of an elite Navy SEAL who finds out about an international plot while trying to find out who killed his pregnant wife. Intriguingly, a lot keeps unfolding in this action movie as John Kelly keeps searching for who killed Pam (Lauren London). Moreover, the suspenseful part is figuring out why she was killed and what this has to do with the U.S. government.

3. Poinsettias for Christmas (2018)

Poinsettias for Christmas is a fun Christmas movie that doesn’t get too mushy. In this movie, London stars as Patty. She was Ellie’s (Bethany Joy Lenz) best friend when they were kids. Just a few weeks before Christmas, Ellie goes back home to help her father on the family’s poinsettia farm. The family firm is putting its reputation on the line by delivering tens of thousands of plants for the town’s annual parade. However, the trouble is that the poinsettias haven’t turned red yet! However, Patty has to buy the farmland. Later, in the movie, she has to sell it back to Ellie.

2. Baggage Claim (2013)

In 2013, Lauren starred in this romantic comedy movie as Sheree. Baggage Claim is one of those predictable romantic comedies where a girl falls in love with a guy she meets in an unexpected way. This movie is about Montana Moore (Paula Patton) who is looking forward to getting married. However, Graham (Boris Kodjoe), the only guy she was interested in, dumped her for Sheree and got engaged. Nonetheless, this movie is filled with all the drama you can expect from a comedy.

1. The Perfect Match (2016)

Lastly, we are rounding this list with Lauren London’s best movie, released in 2016. This movie features a lot of stars. The Perfect Match is a romantic comedy with a strong sexual theme. In this movie, Lauren starred as Ginger one of Charlie’s friends. The movie portrays things that people can relate to, like problems in their relationships and becoming parents. Also, themes include how to share responsibilities fairly and how to find a good balance between work and love.

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