Movies

The 10 Funniest Martin Lawrence Movies 

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Comedian, actor, writer, and producer Martin Lawrence has entertained audiences for decades with his quick humor and larger-than-life personality.
Over the years, Lawrence has become known for bringing a comedic edge to various roles, from the over-the-top FBI agent in the Bad Boys franchise to the lovable Big Momma in Big Momma’s House.

His performances often feature his infectious energy, impeccable timing, and ability to take risks and push boundaries. With more movies on the horizon, like Bad Boys 4 and Back to Africa, we look back at some of Lawrence’s funniest movies.

#10 National Security (2003)

National Security is a film about two security guards, Earl Montgomery, portrayed by Lawrence, and Hank Rafferty, played by Steve Zahn. After being falsely accused of a crime, the duo teams up to clear their names. Lawrence’s role as Earl Montgomery is the comic center of the film.

Additionally, he brings his trademark blend of physical comedy, fast-talking one-liners, and exaggerated facial expressions. Therefore this combination makes Earl a larger-than-life character who is equal parts hilarious and unpredictable. The movie showcases Lawrence’s ability to mix physical comedy with rapid-fire dialogue and off-the-wall antics.

#9 Blue Streak (1999)

Blue Streak

A jewel thief named Miles Logan, played by Lawrence, poses as a police officer to retrieve a diamond he hid inside a police station in the movie Blue Streak. Lawrence’s comedic talent shines in this film.

He effortlessly portrays a smooth-talking con artist who is constantly improvising. Lawrence’s delivery in this movie is impeccable. It demonstrates his ability to turn a mundane scenario into a laugh-out-loud moment.

#8 Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins (2008)

Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins is a film about a successful talk show host named Roscoe Jenkins, who Lawrence portrays. Roscoe returns to his hometown in Georgia for his parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. While there, he must confront the past that he left behind.

Throughout the film, Lawrence’s comedic presence adds an element of lightheartedness to the more serious themes of family, identity, and personal growth. His capacity to blend humor with the more serious aspects of the story underscores his outstanding acting ability.

Lawrence’s physical comedy in the movie is fantastic. Still, his attention to the underlining themes of childhood issues makes the scene relatable and heartwarming as well.

#7 Big Momma’s House (2000)

An FBI agent named Malcolm Turner, played by Lawrence, goes undercover as an older woman named Big Momma in the 2000 comedy Big Momma’s House. Along the way, Malcolm must navigate the challenges of interacting with the suspect’s family.

Lawerence’s physical comedy and ability to seamlessly switch between his tough-guy persona and his feminine alter ego is masterfully demonstrated. Lawrence’s physical comedy throughout the movie is excellent. He embraces his role and allows his performance to radiate.

#6 Bad Boys II (2003)

Lawrence and Smith

Bad Boys II is the sequel to Bad Boys and is about two Miami detectives, Mike Lowrey, portrayed by Will Smith, and Marcus Burnett, played by Martin Lawrence. This film features the two investigating a drug trafficking ring flooding the city with ecstasy pills.

Lawrence plays the role of Marcus Burnett skillfully as a relatable character. His ability to balance humor with dramatic tension is a highlight of the movie.

#5 Wild Hogs (2007)

Four middle-aged suburban men, played by Tim Allen, John Travolta, William H. Macy, and Lawrence, decide to go on a motorcycle road trip to escape their mundane lives in the movie Wild Hogs. Of course, they meet a real biker gang which leads to a series of comedic misadventures.

Lawrence plays Bobby Davis, a dentist trying to rediscover his sense of adventure and masculinity by joining the motorcycle gang. Lawrence’s portrayal of Bobby showcases his impeccable comedic timing and his ability to play the straight man in a cast of larger-than-life characters.

#4 Life (1999)

Murphy and Lawrence

Life, released in 1999, tells the story of two men, Ray Gibson, played by Eddie Murphy, and Claude Banks, portrayed by Lawrence, who were wrongfully convicted of murder. Consequently, their sentence is life in prison.

Lawrence’s role of Claude Banks, an introverted man often bullied by other inmates, permits him to show off his comedic timing and his ability to strike an extraordinary balance with more serious themes such as survival and justice.

His performance as Claude is sympathetic and funny, and his chemistry with Eddie Murphy is a film highlight. Despite the serious subject matter, Life finds humor and heart in even the darkest situations.

#3 Nothing to Lose (1997)

Nothing to Lose tells the story of Nick Beam, portrayed by Tim Robbins, who is having a terrible day. Out of desperation, he decides to rob a convenience store, but a man named T. Paul, played by Lawrence, carjacks him.

Lawrence’s performance as a fast-talking and street-smart criminal is depicted fabulously by his high energy and quick wit. Lawrence’s magnified physical comedy and snappy one-liners are hysterical, especially as he plays up T. Paul’s over-the-top antics in this film.

#2 House Party (1990)

The 1990 film House Party stars Kid played by Christopher Reid, who throws a wild house party while his parents are away. However, things quickly spiral out of control when rival gangs and an angry neighbor get involved.

In House Party, Martin Lawrence plays Bilal, Kid’s best friend, constantly getting into trouble and trying to pick up girls. Lawrence’s performance brings laughter to even the most mundane situations with quick wit.

Lawrence’s unmatched comedic timing and delivery dazzle this movie and are particularly spot-on.

#1 Bad Boys (1995)

The first movie in the franchise, Bad Boys, is about two Miami detectives, Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Lawrence). This movie features the duo tasked with finding a group of stolen heroin worth millions of dollars.

Lawrence’s character provides much of the humor in the film as he reacts to the dangerous situations he finds himself in with a mixture of fear and comedic commentary. His chemistry with Smith also is impressive, as the two effortlessly play off of each other.

Bad Boys owes much of its success to the comedic talents of Martin Lawrence. His performance adds levity and humor to the film while keeping the tension and excitement of the action-packed plot.

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The Best Rappers Turned Actors

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Hip-hop stands as a genre of music well-rooted in storytelling. It’s simple but effective: lyrics over a beat. No need for complex compositions like melodies or chord progressions (which modern hip-hop has plenty of)-just meticulously crafted narrations providing insight into the setting and perspectives of the story. This artistry perhaps explains why the best rappers that have become actors had such a smooth transition.

From chart-topping songs to massive box office hits, numerous rappers-turned-actors have become renowned multi-talented entertainers. Over the years, this trend of artists migrating from music to film has only gained traction. Their innate performance abilities allow them to make the switch seamlessly.

1. Will Smith

Will Smith is more than just a rapper-turned-actor. His star shone brightly from the moment his iconic sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, premiered, and it’s safe to say he’s since become one of the biggest names in Hollywood. 

From box office bonanzas like Independence Day, Bad Boys, and I Robot to Academy Award nominations for Ali and The Pursuit of Happiness, Smith has cemented himself as one of the best actors of all time with a staggering $3 billion in total grosses. He truly is one of the best rapper actors.

2. Ice Cube

Ice Cube is undeniably one of the most successful rapper-actor combinations. His breakout performance in Boyz In The Hood was a defining moment of his career. Since then, he has continued to take on roles across all genres.

 He perfected comedy with his iconic movie Friday, allowing him to also move behind the camera. In 1995, Ice Cube established CubeVision, which produced hits such as Are We There Yet?, Barbershop, Friday, and Ride Along. His influence continues to extend across both the hip-hop and film industries, making him one of the best rapper actors.

3. Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah has exemplified cinematic excellence, and noteworthy acting talents since 1996’s Set It Off. not just a movie star in hits like Last Holiday and Bringing Down the House. She also graced the small screen in the sitcom Living Single, which ran from 1993 to 1998. 

And today, she is the lead producer and actor of the Fox series Star – indisputably attesting to her status as one of Hollywood’s power players. Initially best known for her electrifying performance in musical drama Chicago, which staked its claim on mass entertainment at the crossroads of criminal justice and showmanship, Latifah earned an Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actress with a mere phrase: “When you’re good to Mama, Mama’s good to you.” Truly, this iconic Broadway lyricist Fred Ebb could not have put it better.

4. Tupac Shakur

The life of Tupac was tragically cut short at a mere 25 years of age. Had his life not been so abruptly ended, the power of his presence in Hollywood today would be undeniable. Although he was primarily known for his musical talents, Pac’s immersion into acting began shortly after with his astounding debut performance as Bishop in 1992’s Juice. 

His career and development as an actor had just begun to take off, and it is not far-fetched to assume that had he survived, he would have become an unquestioned leader in both television and cinema.

5. Ludacris

If you’re acquainted with the Fast & Furious franchise, you’ve no doubt come to admire Luda’s character, Tej: sharp-witted and savvy. But unless you’ve seen his roles in the acclaimed picture Crash or as the lovable protector in New Year’s Eve, it’s time to broaden your horizons.

Ludacris is nothing short of naturally amusing and charismatic. Not only does he provide comic relief, but he can bring even the dullest of dialogue to life. The Fast and the Furious films have been a perfect match for his talents and when that franchise eventually finishes, he will undoubtedly continue to find plentiful work considering he’s one of the best rappers turned actors.

6. Method Man

Method Man stands out amongst other performers on this list as a character actor of immense talent. With a wide range of tones and styles, his acting portfolio includes both dramatic projects such as The Deuce or The Wire, as well as comedic appearances in How High and The Last O.G. 

His remarkable chameleon-like ability to move between seriously intense scenes and lighthearted humor has earned him high praise, particularly in the case of his performance in The Deuce, which could have won him an Emmy had it gotten the attention it deserved.

7. Ice-T

Ice-T, one of many rappers to gain fame by taking on the role of a police officer in television, is most renowned for his portrayal of Odafin Tutola on Law and Order: SVU. Despite the more than ten years he has spent in the part, Ice-T continues to pursue other acting challenges, such as voicing a character in Ugly Dolls and starring in film productions like Tank Girl and New Jack City.

No doubt, Tutola has been one of the most iconic characters of modern television, and that is impressive in itself. Where some may ascribe a lengthy TV appearance with being stuck somewhere, it’s obvious Ice-T has seen it as an opportunity.

8. Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg’s stint in hip-hop is not fondly remembered, though he has since found success as an actor. Collaborating with Peter Berg, the pair have created a variety of popular films that have earned critical praise — such as Lone Survivor, Deepwater Horizon, Patriots Day, Mile 22, and the upcoming Wonderland. 

His artistic choices may be contentious to some, but there is no denying Wahlberg’s talent on the silver screen. In an industry saturated by Marvel movies, he has emerged as a leading star. He can still draw an audience and make an impact without relying on special effects. His charisma makes him a commercial powerhouse across the United States.

9. Donald Glover

Childish Gambino, Earn from Atlanta, Troy from Community – all of these names represent one person: Donald Glover. His talent is renowned not only as a rapper and actor, but also as a writer. He has been credited on 30 Rock, and as the creator of Atlanta. 

Glover has directed four episodes of the show as well.  Now, he’s at the forefront of showbiz, having the potential to do almost anything in entertainment. He may well prioritize acting over his other interests; only time will tell.

10. Common

Known for his impressive soundtracks and scores, rapper Common has proven to boast considerable acting talent. His extensive list of acting credits include a recurring appearance on the television show Hell on Wheels. And, a part in Selma, which was awarded an Oscar for Best Original Song.

 Common excels when taking on period pieces, conveying strength and honor in each performance. When it comes to minor roles that call for this mood, he does not disappoint.

Seth Rogen Recounts Smoking Weed With Megan Thee Stallion

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Seth Rogen is a well-known, well-loved actor and comedian. His friendly charm and goofy laugh allow him to mingle with stars all across Hollywood. In an interview on March 14th with Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Rogen talks about his night at Vanity Fair. After the Oscars ceremony, stars will typically flock to the Vanity Fair after-party to hang out with their peers. In his interview with Jimmy, Seth talks about his night with Steven Spielberg, among other things. But it was his interaction with Megan Thee Stallion that caught everyone’s attention.

Megan Thee Stallion is a rapper who quickly rose to fame after releasing her first album in 2020. She is known for her independent and assertive attitude. While Megan and Seth Rogen have very little in common, they are both able to easily make friends. In his interview, Seth states that he had never met Megan before the Vanity Fair party. Megan approached the movie star to smoke weed, and assured him that he and her “brother” would get along very well. The three set out to smoke together and Seth didn’t think twice about it. But later, a person behind the scenes informed Seth that Megan does not have a brother.

Seth Rogen Is Confused About Who He Smoked With

Regardless of his confusion, Seth Rogen chose to exchange phone numbers with the mysterious man. When asked if Seth got along with Megan’s brother, he stated, “We really did, yeah, which is unfortunate because he might not exist.” Then the actor jokingly looked at the camera and said, “Hey Travis, call me.” Seth, despite not knowing what was going on, seems open to making new friends either way. But there is a likely explanation as to why people were confused on the matter.

It is common among a lot of communities to make a family out of their friend circle. While Megan Thee Stallion has expressed that she has no biological siblings, she most likely has a lot of friends who she considers her “sisters” and “brothers.” But for someone like Seth Rogen, who is not used to this tradition, it’s easy to see why he was confused. However, it is unconfirmed as to what Megan Thee Stallion really meant. Check back to see if Seth is able to decipher who he met at the after-party.

Angela Bassett Explains Why She Had No Movies In 1994

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Angela Bassett had been nominated for the Oscars for the first time in 1993 for the movie What’s Love Got to Do with It. Sadly, she did not win it that time, either. However, she disappeared from the industry until 1995. For years, her fans did not know what had happened during that missing time. They assumed that there was just nothing that had grabbed her interest, after being nominated. However, Bassett has now told us what she was doing.

In an interview reposted by The Jasmine Brand, Bassett explains that the reason she did not appear in any movies for 18 months was not that she was waiting for a lead role or anything. There were just no roles being offered to her. Bassett was not worried about being the lead. Eventually, her next role did show up in May of 1995’s Panther. Afterward, she would continue on to do 3 more movies that year, and do at least 1 movie a year up to the present day. Her most recently released movie is Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Where Did Bassett’s Roles Go?

Interestingly, Laurence Fishburne, who was also nominated for the same movie, appears to have been in the same predicament. He did not get another film role until 1995’s Higher Learning. However, it was not as bad for him as it was for Bassett, since he spent the time working on his play, Riff Raff. In addition, Higher Learning, was released in January of 1995, so he was working throughout November-December of 1994.

Hollywood did not decide to just not make black movies for a year. There were a couple, just not very many. The few that were made also generally did not have small budgets. It literally was just a case of there not being enough movies being made for everyone, so the casting directors had free reign to select whoever, and Angela Bassett was just unlucky at being chosen. It also does not help that the majority of her movies at the time were dramas. The only black drama that came out that year was Jason’s Lyric, an erotic romantic drama with a low budget. They would have assumed that Bassett would not accept the role for either of those cases.

Kevin Hart And The Rock: Every Time They Have Worked Together

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Kevin Hart and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson are two of Hollywood’s most popular and bankable actors. Their long-standing friendship and on-screen chemistry have made them a dynamic duo in the entertainment industry.

The two have appeared together in several movies. These movies showcase their comedic talents and create some of the most memorable moments in recent film history. In addition to their movie collaborations, Hart and Johnson have worked on various projects outside the film industry, including social media and charitable endeavors.

With Jumanji 4 and DC League Of Super-Pets 2 slated to come out soon, we take a closer look at every time Hart and Johnson have worked together. Moreover, we will explore the magic of their comedic partnership and why their dynamic continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Central Intelligence (2016)

Hart and Johnson

Central Intelligence was the first movie that Hart and Johnson worked on together. Hart plays Calvin Joyner, a shy accountant who reunites with his high school classmate Bob Stone played by Dwayne Johnson. However, Calvin soon discovers that Bob is a rogue CIA agent who is on a mission to prevent a deadly threat to national security.

The two team up to save the world and clear Bob’s name. Fans and critics praised the chemistry between Hart and Johnson, who delivered a hilarious and entertaining performances in their respective roles. Johnson is charismatic and quirky, which contrasts nicely with Hart’s character.

The movie’s humor comes from their odd-couple dynamic. Johnson’s over-the-top antics and Hart’s skeptical reactions are priceless. The incredible witty banter between Hart and Johnson makes the movie a must-watch.

One of the funniest scenes in Central Intelligence is when Hart and Johnson’s characters break into a high-security building to retrieve important information. Bob, dressed in a unicorn onesie, sneaks around while Calvin watches from the security room.

However, it is difficult for Bob to move between his clumsiness and the onesie’s design. The result is numerous hilarious mishaps, including falling down a flight of stairs. Hart’s disbelieving reactions and Johnson’s exaggerated physical comedy make the scene inconceivable and unforgettable.

Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2017)

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle was the second film that Hart and Johnson worked together on, but it is arguably one of the funniest. The movie stars Dwayne Johnson as Dr. Smolder Bravestone, Kevin Hart as Franklin “Mouse” Finbar, Karen Gillan as Ruby Roundhouse, and Jack Black as Professor Sheldon “Shelly” Oberon.

The chemistry between Johnson and Hart is awesome. The two actors play off each other’s strengths, with Johnson playing a confident and fearless adventurer and Hart playing a neurotic and fearful zoologist. The contrast between their characters and their comedic timing raises the film to a loftier comedy level.

In one memorable scene, Johnson’s character teaches Hart’s character how to be more confident and decisive. As they walk through the Jungle, Bravestone encourages Mouse to repeat the phrase, “I have a backpack, and you don’t!” with increasing confidence.

The scene culminates in a side-splitting moment where Mouse finally yells the phrase at the top of his lungs. Unfortunately, only to be instantly ambushed by a group of furious animals. Hart’s uneven voice and Johnson’s deadpan delivery make the scene both humorous and charming. Additionally, the physical comedy of the animals sends the scene over the top with funniness.

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw is a 2019 action film directed by David Leitch. The movie stars Johnson as Luke Hobbs, a federal agent, and Hart also appears in a small role as the air marshal Dinkley. The movie follows the story of Hobbs and Shaw (Jason Stamos), who must team up to stop a dangerous virus from falling into the hands of a cyber-genetically enhanced terrorist.

Hart’s appearance as Dinkley was short, but he produced some of the movie’s funnier lines. Hart’s chemistry with Johnson adds an extra layer of humor to their scenes. Additionally, their interactions are some of the most memorable parts of the movie.

One hilarious scene showcasing their comedic talent is when Kevin Hart, as Dinkley, must watch Shaw’s sister. As Dinkley attempts to keep her entertained, he reveals some personal details about himself, including his fear of public speaking and his love for Disney movies.

Additionally, Hart’s delivery of the lines is spot-on. The chemistry between Hart and Johnson is also prominent in this scene, with Johnson’s character teasing Dinkley and adding to the dynamic. The movie was well-received by critics and fans of the franchise.

Jumanji: The Next Level (2019)

Hart and Johnson

Jumanji: the Next Level is the 2019 action-adventure comedy film directed by Jake Kasdan. Additionally, it is the third movie Johnson and Hart worked on together. The movie is a sequel to the 2017 film Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, with Hart and Johnson reprising their roles.

The story follows the friends who are transported back into the dangerous world of Jumanji. Furthermore, they must now navigate different terrains and overcome various challenges to escape the game and save their friend. Critics praised the chemistry between Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart. The two actors play off each other’s strengths phenomenally well.

The dynamic of Hart’s character assigned the weakness of being afraid of everything, while Johnson’s character is a fearless adventurer is perfect for the two actors. A perfect example of the comedic chemistry between the two is when Mouse and Bravestone swap bodies due to a new game feature.

As a result, Mouse, who was previously terrified of everything, now has Bravestone’s fearless and confident personality. In contrast, Bravestone now has Mouse’s nervous and jittery persona. The scene is hilarious because of the discrepancy between the two characters’ personalities and how they adapt to their new roles.

Hart’s comedic timing shines as he plays Bravestone’s assured persona. Additionally, Johnson’s physical comedy is on maximum display as he struggles to adjust to Mouse’s nervous tics.

DC League Of Super-Pets (2022)

Hart and Johnson

In DC League of Super-Pets, Krypto (voiced by Johnson), Superman’s loyal canine companion, teams up with Ace (voiced by Hart), Batman’s trusty hound, to form a league of super-powered pets. Together, they must stop a group of villains led by Lex Luthor from taking over the world.

This is the most recent film the two have worked on together. Critics noted that the chemistry between Johnson and Hart was a film highlight. Their dynamic translates well into animated roles, with Hart’s high-pitched voice as Ace playing off Johnson’s deep baritone as Krypto.

A great example of the two’s ability to bring their chemistry even to animation is when Krypto and Ace first meet and try to impress each other with their respective powers. Krypto shows off his super strength and heat vision, while Ace demonstrates his superior sense of smell and agility.

However, things quickly spiral out of control when Ace accidentally sets off one of Krypto’s heat vision beams, causing chaos in the city. Kevin Hart and his comedic delivery as Ace add a lot of humor to the scene, while Dwayne Johnson’s deep voice and self-assured attitude as Krypto create a great contrast.

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Every Movie Ryan Coogler Has Directed

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Ryan Coogler is one of the most talented and visionary directors working in Hollywood today. With a career spanning just over a decade, he has already made a significant impact on the film industry, with several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films under his belt. In this article, we will take a closer look at every movie Ryan Coogler has ever directed.

Fruitvale Station

Firstly, “Fruitvale Station” is a biographical drama film that tells the story of Oscar Grant. He is a young black man who was fatally shot by a white police officer at a train station in Oakland, California, on New Year’s Day in 2009. Specifically, the film follows the last 24 hours of Grant’s life, exploring his relationships with his girlfriend, daughter, mother, and friends. Also, it shows his struggles with employment and past criminal behavior.

Positives:

  • The film is a powerful and emotional portrayal of a real-life tragedy, and it succeeds in humanizing Oscar Grant and conveying the impact of his death on his loved ones and the community.
  • The performances by the cast, particularly Michael B. Jordan as Grant, are excellent and bring depth and authenticity to the characters.
  • Also, director Ryan Coogler’s use of handheld camerawork and naturalistic lighting and sound design creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy that draws the viewer into the story.

Negatives:

  • Some critics have argued that the film overly romanticizes Grant’s life and portrays him as too much of a saintly figure while downplaying his criminal record and drug use.
  • Also, others have criticized the film’s portrayal of the police officers involved in the shooting as one-dimensional villains, rather than exploring the systemic issues that contributed to the tragedy.
  • Some viewers may find the film’s depiction of violence and death to be graphic and disturbing.

Creed

“Creed” is a 2015 sports drama film directed by Ryan Coogler. The movie follows Adonis Creed, the son of former heavyweight champion Apollo Creed. Specifically, tries to make a name for himself in the boxing world with the help of Rocky Balboa.

Positives:

  • Coogler’s direction is praised for bringing a fresh perspective to the “Rocky” franchise while still paying homage to its roots.
  • The performances are highly praised, especially Michael B. Jordan’s portrayal of Adonis Creed and Sylvester Stallone’s return as Rocky Balboa, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
  • Also, the cinematography and boxing scenes were amazing. They had intensity and realism, making the audience feel like they are in the ring with the characters.

Negatives:

  • But, some critics argue that the plot can feel predictable and formulaic, following the same structure as previous “Rocky” films.
  • Others criticize the underdeveloped love interest, Bianca, played by Tessa Thompson, arguing that her character doesn’t have enough screen time or development.
  • Some fans of the “Rocky” franchise have criticized the film for not focusing enough on Rocky Balboa, feeling that the film was marketed as a “Rocky” film but is more about Adonis Creed’s story.

Black Panther

“Black Panther” is a 2018 Marvel superhero film directed by Ryan Coogler. The film follows T’Challa, the king of the technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda. He must defend his people and prevent a global war after the discovery of a powerful new element.

Positives:

  • Representation: “Black Panther” was celebrated for its representation of Black culture and characters. The film featured a predominantly Black cast and crew, with Coogler being the first Black director to helm a Marvel film.
  • Vision and Direction: Coogler’s direction brought a unique vision to the superhero genre. Overall, the film’s visual style and themes of identity, heritage, and social justice resonated with audiences and critics alike.
  • Performances: The film’s ensemble cast delivered powerful performances, with standout turns from Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, and Danai Gurira.
  • Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack, produced by Kendrick Lamar and featuring contributions from various artists, was praised for its blend of traditional African music with modern hip-hop.

Negatives:

  • CGI: Some critics felt that the film’s visual effects were uneven, particularly in the climactic battle scene.
  • Villain Motivations: Michael B. Jordan’s portrayal of Erik Killmonger was amazing. But, some critics felt that his motivations as a villain were underdeveloped.
  • Predictable Plot: Some felt that the film’s plot was formulaic and predictable, particularly in its use of the hero’s journey trope.

Space Jam: A New Legacy

Space Jam: A New Legacy is a 2021 sports comedy film with direction by Malcolm D. Lee and produced by Ryan Coogler. It is a sequel to the 1996 film “Space Jam” and stars LeBron James as himself. He teams up with the Looney Tunes to play a high-stakes basketball game against an evil algorithm in order to rescue his son.

Positives:

  • The animation and special effects are impressive and visually stunning.
  • Also, the film includes a variety of popular Warner Bros. characters and franchises, including DC Comics, Game of Thrones, and The Matrix.
  • The soundtrack includes a mix of old and new songs that complement the film’s energetic and fun vibe.
  • The film’s message about the importance of being true to oneself and embracing individuality is positive and empowering.

Negatives:

  • But, the film’s storyline and humor may feel too simplistic and aimed at a younger audience, which may disappoint older fans of the original “Space Jam.”
  • The film’s product placement can feel heavy-handed and distracting at times.
  • Some of the jokes and references may feel outdated or forced, particularly those related to social media and technology.
  • The film’s focus on LeBron James may feel self-indulgent and lack the charm and charisma of the original “Space Jam,” which starred Michael Jordan.

Wakanda Forever (2022)

Coogler’s latest project is the new movie “Wakanda Forever,”. Also, it is a sequel to the blockbuster hit “Black Panther.” Specifically, the film will pick up where its predecessor left off, exploring the world of Wakanda and its people following the death of T’Challa, played by the late Chadwick Boseman. Undeniably, Coogler’s direction honors Boseman’s legacy. Also, it pushes the story forward and introduces new characters and challenges for the people of Wakanda to face.

Positives

  • The film has every bit of spirit and consistency as the previous film, Black Panther.
  • Inclusivity remains a priority in the film.
  • The presentation, as well as the soundtrack, is unique and riveting.

Negatives

  • But, once again, the storyline seems predictable to adult audiences.
  • CGI, while improved, still shows itself to be a crutch for the film.

Wrong Answer

“Wrong Answer” is an upcoming drama film directed by Ryan Coogler. The film is based on the true story of the Atlanta Public Schools cheating scandal that took place in the 2000s. Also, the script was written by Ta-Nehisi Coates, and the film is set to star Michael B. Jordan in the lead role.

The cheating scandal involved several Atlanta teachers and administrators. Particularly, they were accused of inflating student test scores to meet academic standards and earn bonuses. The scandal received national attention. It was seen as an example of the flaws in the education system and the pressure teachers face to produce results.

Ryan Coogler is known for his socially conscious filmmaking and his ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and nuance. His previous films, including “Fruitvale Station,” “Creed,” and “Black Panther,” have all explored important social issues and received critical acclaim.

Michael B. Jordan, who has worked with Coogler on multiple films, is known for his powerful performances and his commitment to socially conscious storytelling. He is expected to deliver another powerful performance in “Wrong Answer.”

Also, the film is set to be produced by Brad Pitt’s production company, Plan B. Overall, they have a history of producing critically acclaimed and socially conscious films. But, the release date for “Wrong Answer” has not yet been announced.

Seth Rogen Smoked Weed With Megan Thee Stallion And Her Brother (Who Does Not Exist) At An Oscars Party

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Last night (March 14), Seth Rogen stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where the two talked all things Oscars. During their chat, Rogen revealed he went to the Vanity Fair afterparty, where he smoked weed with one of the buzziest rappers and her (alleged) brother.

“It was fun,” he said. “I smoked some weed with Megan Thee Stallion and her brother. That was a good time.”

“Her brother, Sylvester Thee Stallion?” Kimmel joked.

“Yeah, exactly,” said Rogen.

Rogen then explained that he had never met Megan, or her alleged brother, before that night.

“She approached me, and she was adamant that I would get along with her brother, and someone backstage told me that she doesn’t have a brother,” Rogen said. “So, now I’m confused about this whole thing. I don’t know what I did that night, if I’m being honest.”

He continued, saying, “We really did hit it off, which is unfortunate, because he might not exist, from what I am hearing.”

Rogen then revealed he did get this mystery person’s number, so perhaps he’ll learn the truth soon.

It’s likely Rogen is confused about who he was with that night, because Megan doesn’t actually have any siblings; she noted in a 2019 Vulture interview, “Everybody asks me, ‘How did you get so confident? Or how are you this? How did you grow into this?’ And I’m like, ‘Look, I was the only child, so I had a lot of time spent by myself,’ and I feel like when you spend a lot of time by yourself, you get to know yourself.”

Check out the clip from Rogen’s interview above.

Megan Thee Stallion is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

The Oscars Chose To Tone Down Their Will Smith Jokes

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Nearly one full year later, the Oscars have still not forgiven Will Smith for his stunt on stage. There is no better way to break the tension than by cracking a few jokes. To no one’s surprise, the controversy surrounding Will Smith’s altercation with Chris Rock continues to linger. It appears that the team at the Oscars has no intention of letting Will get away without at least a little bit of shade. But how far do they go with the jokes?

Many found the jokes at Will’s expense to be funny and light-hearted. But those who tuned into the ceremony are surprised to learn that the Oscars had a lot more jokes up their sleeves. Molly McNearny, an executive producer for the Oscars, revealed more insight. Originally, Jimmy Kimmel and his team were ready to really rag on Will. The original hosting was to be full of jabs that some might even deem as inappropriate for the show. However, they chose to pull back on the jokes at the last minute for a few reasons.

The Oscars Gracefully Poke Fun At Last Year’s Debacle

According to McNearny, they did not want to utilize drama to garner more views. “We didn’t want to make this year all about last year,” she stated in a Variety interview. Constantly bringing up last year’s news can get repetitive, so cutting the excess jokes was a wise decision. Along with trying to stay up to date, the removal of certain jokes also came down to respect. Chris Rock was ultimately the one that got assaulted on stage, not the audience. A few jokes here and there are harmless. But hyper-focusing on the incident can come off as disrespectful to both Chris and Will Smith.

“There were certainly some that went harder,” McNearny continues. “But we didn’t think that was our place to do that. That should be Chris Rock, not us.” However, Jimmy Kimmel and the Oscars team were not above poking some fun at how people reacted at the time. In one of his jokes, Jimmy teases the audience for doing absolutely nothing after Chris Rock got punched in the face. All jokes aside, the ceremony remained respectful and in good taste. But more importantly, it remained free of any violent altercations. Check back in to catch any updates about how Will and Chris react toward the 2023 show.

[Via]

Kanye West Is Working On New Documentary Only Using iPhone Footage, Claims Wallo267

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Kanye West has kept to himself over the past few months, for the most part. Following a tumultuous end to 2022, Ye seemingly decided to take a break from the media circuit and social media which undoubtedly got him into hot water. However, during his recent public outings, he had his phone in his hand. Though that’s rather common for most people living in the 21st-century world, Ye has bigger plans, according to Wallo267.

The Million Dollaz Worth Of Game co-host recently detailed a meeting he had with Kanye West. Wallo explained that he met a producer whose job was to solely film Ye with an iPhone. The footage apparently is being used for a new documentary on the Yeezy founder. “I was with Ye months ago. This mothaf*cka had a white bull, right? Me and this bull talkin’. This white bull got an iPhone that’s all day… He documenting everything. This gon’ be the documentary, the iPhone,” he said holding up his iPhone. 

Kanye West’s Documentary Teaches Wallo A Valuable Lesson

Wallo explained that the individual he spoke to has “hard drives of hard drives” of content surrounding Ye. “When I’m talkin’ to Ye, Ye’s like, ‘Do you mind if I record this?’ Nah, he could record,” he recalled. “He like this all day, he don’t say nothing,” Wallo said, mimicking the videographer’s actions as he held up his phone. Though Wallo didn’t get the scoop on when this documentary might drop, he explained that it was impressive to see this type of dedication. Ultimately, Wallo said that witnessing the documentary being filmed became a valuable lesson to “document everything.” 

It will certainly be interesting to see how this documentary turns out. Last year, Netflix debuted the three-part Jeen-Yuhs documentary, directed by Coodie Simmons and Chike Ozah, who began documentary Kanye’s career before he signed with Roc-A-Fella. However, Ye took issue with the final product, demanding Netflix and the directors to give him access to the editing room so he could have the final say in what is and isn’t included. Ultimately, Coodie and Chike refused to give Ye creative control of their project. 

Athletes That Have Gone Into Hollywood

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The athlete to actor pipeline is real. Many popular sports stars go onto star in films and some of them even have genuine acting careers. While the line between actor and musician is and always has been blurry, the line between athletic person and actor is getting more blurry by the day.

More and more athletes move into Hollywood and they’re also doing it more successfully. Here are a few of the top examples.

Dave Bautista: Former athlete with genuine acting ability

Dave Bautista is a former WWE star, but pretty soon he’ll be known only as an actor. He’s taken quite the career turn and proved that he has real talent. The Guardians of the Galaxy star has anchored the comedy of those and other Marvel films since 2014, but he’s also got an incredible dramatic side.

Viewers saw a little bit of it in a brief role in Blade Runner 2049, where he gave his role the brevity and depth it demanded. Bautista once shared that he hoped he would one day be remembered for his versatility.

“She said, ‘Lee’s amazing, Lee [Pace] can do anything.’ I can remember the way she said that with such confidence, and I want people to say that about me. I want people to speak to me in those regards: ‘Dave can do anything,’ and that’s what I want to be my legacy. Not even a specific character, I just want to leave behind a legacy that Dave could do anything, he did any genre.”

Dave Bautista via TooFab

He would also star in the M. Night Shyamalan thriller Knock at the Cabin. The movie wasn’t a hit critically, but Bautista’s acting drew praise.

Juancho Hernangomez and Anthony Edwards: Actors to watch?

Netflix hasn’t always put out the best movies, but they tried it once more with Adam Sandler and a bunch of basketball players. That’s a huge risk in and of itself. Sandler can act, as he’s proven a few times, but NBA stars? What made Netflix think they could carry a film?

With Hustle, two NBA stars acted opposite each other as rivals- Juancho Hernangomez and Anthony Edwards. Edwards, the runner-up to Rookie of the Year in 2020, was the antagonist to Hernangomez’s undiscovered gem.

Both brought real acting ability to the screen. Hernangomez played a struggling basketball player balancing his real life responsibilities and fears with a dream of playing in the NBA.

Edwards was his bitter rival, and he played the role so well it made audiences wonder if he was this cruel in real life. Neither are probably going to foray into Hollywood full time right now, but either one probably could.

Ray Allen is still Jesus Shuttleworth

Ray Allen is a retired NBA star and he hasn’t done much in the film industry. However, in 1998, he starred opposite Denzel Washington in He Got Game. Washington is a titan of industry and many believe him to be one of the best actors of all time.

Allen was up for the challenge and that alone proves his acting mettle. To further cement that, Allen went on to play and be an all-time three-point shooter in the NBA for 17 more seasons after the movie. Nevertheless, he’s still known as Jesus Shuttleworth to this day.

It certainly helped that the role was similar to Allen’s expertise and it drew on things he had experienced, but acting alongside Washington successfully is a feat nonetheless.

Dwayne Johnson: Athlete to movie star

There are real arguments that Dwayne the Rock Johnson can’t really act, but the former WWE star has charisma on screen at the very least. It’s true that he often plays very similar characters, but that’s not a problem for Ryan Reynolds, so it’s not one for Johnson either.

In terms of former athletic stars who went into acting, no one has had as many big movies as Johnson. The former wrestler has starred in:

  • Black Adam
  • DC League of Super-pets
  • Jungle Cruise
  • Jumani: Welcome to the Jungle
  • Jumanj: The Next Level
  • Moana
  • Skyscraper
  • Furious Seven
  • Baywatch
  • Pain & Gain
  • Tooth Fairy
  • Get Smart

Johnson has been in a lot of major movies and that’s not going to change any time soon. He may not be winning any awards, but he’s got one of the best careers of a former athlete in this industry.

Tom Brady: Acting future?

Tom Brady is arguably the greatest athlete to ever play football, but could he have a future in acting? He’s already made a few forays into the industry and could have more on the way.

He made a cameo in Ted 2 and was the subject of the recent film 80 for Brady. He hasn’t really tested his acting chops in anything yet, but the groundwork for a future career in Hollywood is certainly there.

John Cena: The best former wrestler to act?

John Cena is arguably the best actor that used to be a wrestler. The former athlete has established himself as a genuinely good actor with range. The actor come a long way from being the father on the Fred movies.

He’s been in major franchises like Dwayne Johnson has, even starring in F9: The Fast Saga in the franchise Johnson joined a few years prior. He’s also been in the DCEU like Johnson, with the latter playing Black Adam.

In that universe, Cena was Peacemaker. His turn in The Suicide Squad (2021) showed his comedic timing, but he offered a more dramatic portrayal in the spin-off show.

He also starred in Blockers, Daddy’s Home 2, The Wall and Trainwreck. He’s got a nice career for himself and has the brightest future in Hollywood.

Several athletes have moved from a sport to the set, and these are so far the best of the best. Which sports stars will join them in the future?