Generally, when you think of athletes, you only think of the sports they play. However, many invest in brands and deals to diversify their financial portfolio. For that reason alone, many athletes own franchises in the food industry. We have sports stars with their own restaurants, but today we are here to discuss franchise owners. You may recognize a few faces as they are constantly associated with these companies. Additionally, you may be unaware that these athletes are so invested in the food industry.
Peyton Manning: Papa Johns
MIAMI GARDENS, FL – FEBRUARY 02: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts looks on during Super Bowl XLIV Media Day at Sun Life Stadium on February 2, 2010 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
Peyton Manning is one of the most recognizable faces for one of America’s top pizza chains. Manning was once a spokesperson for Papa John’s and would go on to star in many commercials for the company. He owned 31 Denver-area locations from 2012 to 2018. He said about his business venture: “It’s a smart investment now and will be long after I’m done playing football.” As of 2018, Manning cut ties with the company for reasons unknown, but the speculated reasons come from the controversy of Papa John’s founder John Schnatter.
Dree Brews: Jimmy Johns and Dunkin’
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OCTOBER 25: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints reacts against the Carolina Panthers during a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 25, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Brees retired as the New Orleans Saints quarterback in 2021. However, the football star has made significant investments in franchises over the years. Making a big name for himself, Brees has a wide-ranging portfolio of franchises that he has invested in. Those franchises include Jimmy John’s, Dunkin’, Five Guys, and many others. He has a total of nine Jimmy John’s restaurants and 69 units of Dunkin’. More recently, Brees has invested in 85 Everbowl locations and is co-owner and partner of Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.
Vernon Davis & Mohamed Sanu: Jamba Juice
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – APRIL 02: Former NFL player Vernon Davis and honorary pace car driver speaks to the media during a press conference prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway on April 02, 2023 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
Both players have invested in the company Jamba Juice, and each has several locations. Vernon Davis, former Washington Redskins tight end, owns five locations in Northern California and another in Northern Virginia with Mohamed Sanu. The latter also partnered with Davis to be a franchisee for Jamba Juice. Both have expressed the importance and value of franchising a business.
Davis had this to say about Jamba Juice: “Jamba Juice is an iconic brand that, like me, cares about helping others live a healthier, higher quality life.” Further, “I honestly couldn’t be more excited about partnering with Mohamed, expanding my relationship with Jamba Juice and, of course, bringing more of the fresh fruit and vegetable goodness of Jamba to my hometown.”
Sanu added, “Over the past decade or so, pro athletes have become a rising presence in the franchise world. We’re executors who are comfortable working within the confines of an established system and executing a playbook. Like an athlete, a franchisee has to come in and execute the game plan.”
Kris Brown: Dunkin’
DALLAS, TX – FEBRUARY 04: NFL player Kris Brown of the Dallas Cowboys attends The Black Eyed Peas Super Bowl Party presented by Sports Illustrated and Bacardi at Music Hall At Fair Park on February 4, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Tiffany Rose/Getty Images for Capital A)
Brown is a retired NFL player who was a member of the Dallas Cowboys. He decided to switch to franchising, particularly with Dunkin’. He has territorial rights for markets in Omaha and Kansas City. Additionally, Brown is currently the owner and CEO of the Berlin Group. It is a franchisee group that owns 12 Dunkin’ locations throughout the Midwest and is set to have 21 locations total in the future..
In an interview with Insider, Brown said, “Going from sports to franchising was a natural transition.” He added, “There are a lot of qualities you must have to succeed as an athlete. You have to know how to work and work hard, but running a franchise is really about following the operational manual, which tells you, ‘This is how to run the business.’”
Cory Stillman & Don Davey: Firehouse Subs
RALEIGH, NC – MARCH 03: Cory Stillman #61 of the Carolina Hurricanes poses for a headsot prior to an NHL game against the Buffalo Sabres on March 3, 2011 at RBC Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Gregg Forwerck/NHLI via Getty Images)
Cory Stillman was a former NHL Carolina Hurricanes player who has invested in owning Firehouse Subs. His first location opened in 2016 in Whitby, Ontario. Former Jacksonville Jaguars star Don Davey also invested in Firehouse Subs, but much earlier than Stillman. Davey would open his first location in 2002. Stillman currently owns three locations, all in the Ontario area. Davey would grow to have 10 more sites since. At the moment, Davey owns 12 locations in Central Florida and three in Wisconsin and — with his team — manages an area that includes 14 independent franchises all over Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
Investing in franchises is the best financial move for many athletes. They tend to lean toward those that hold value to them and their family. Athletes who have franchised restaurants seem happy and decide this was the best move. Many more athletes should consider making this business move as a positive investment.
Adidas has been a significant force in the sneaker world since Adi Dassler first started the brand in 1949. Throughout its many years as a top brand, Adidas has seen more than its fair share of endorsements from influencers in the sports, fashion, and even music industries. Being a well-loved brand with affirmation from others is a recipe for creating unique collaborations. Adidas has kept its releases innovative with its coveted collaborations, from artists to fashion influencers to other brands. We’re looking at the iconic brand and listing some of the hottest Adidas collaborations in recent years.
2023 – Yugioh Adi2000 “Yami Yugi”
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With anime being more popular than ever, pairing it with the sneaker game is an obvious win. Adidas realizes this, giving us collections inspired by our favorite animes, including Dragon Ball Z and Naruto. This time around, Yugioh! fans got their sneakers with Yugioh! X Adidas Adi2000. Inspired by the Yami Yugi character, the purple and gold scheme looks well with the Adi2000’s silhouette, making it an incredible set for both sneakerheads and fans alike.
2023 – Ivy Park x Adidas Top 10 2000 “Magic Beige”
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Since Adidas signed Beyoncé to an ambassador partnership in 2018, her fans have been blessed with a few hot collaborations between Adidas and the icon’s Ivy Park brand. Already a silhouette that looks good in bright colors, the Top 10 2000 benefits from the unique colorway. The soft beige mixed with the bold orange makes the Magic Beige an appreciated piece in the Ivy Park collection. With the partnership coming to an end, fans are clamoring for Ivy Park kicks.
2022 – Pharrell Williams x Adidas NMD Hu Animal Print
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Already a natural trendsetter and owner of his own fashion brands, Pharrell and Adidas seem like the perfect match made in heaven. When the artist first collaborated with the brand in 2014, fans knew they would be in for more treats in the future. Bringing the same flavor as Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream to his collaborations, the hot streak continued into 2002 with the release of the NMD Hu Animal Print collection. The collab sported different colorways, from Ash Grey to the vibrant Altered Blue, each complimenting the NMD Hu with the electric style that Pharrell is known for.
Who would’ve thought the sneaker brand Run DMC made popular amongst Hip Hop heads and the streets would pair nicely with a high-end designer? For fans of both brands, the collaboration between Adidas and Gucci ended in a sneaker that was to die for. In the luxury collaboration, the GG monogram and Interlocking G mix with the Adidas Trefoil featured on colorful prints in each colorway. Gucci’s signature symbols also mesh well with the sneaker’s simple build, breaking the mold with multiple colorways.
2021 – JeremyScott x Adidas “JS Money Wings”
RETURN OF THE MONEY WINGS
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Money talks and walks the walk, especially with famed designer Jeremy Scott at the helm. Scott earned the nicknames “fashion’s last rebel” and “the people’s designer” with his bold, unconventionally alluring designs. The same description can be said about his 2021 collaboration with Adidas. The sneaker sported Scott’s signature look, releasing a previous collaboration and bringing it the low-cut silhouette. Boasting detachable wings on the sides of the sneakers, and the printed $100 dollar bill graphics, the JS Money Wings low is one of Adidas’ most bold and iconic collaborations.
2021 – Bad Bunny x Adidas Forum Buckle Low “The First Cafe”
After releasing three albums in 2020, Bad Bunny’s ability to make waves on a global scale was apparent in 2021. What better way to celebrate this success than to collaborate with Adidas for his own collection? No stranger to collaborating with artists, Adidas made sure that “The First Cafe” Buckle Low truly represented Bad Bunny. Instead of the usual Adidas branding, the tongues boast the Puerto Rican singer’s signature eye graphic. The sneaker also added more utility features for the collaboration, including its removable collar buckle system.
The Mandalorian is a show that kept an entire fanbase craving for more while also bringing new fans to the Star Wars universe. To commemorate, Adidas released multiple Mandalorian-inspired colorways of the NMD_R1. Not the first time a Star Wars figure collaborated with the brand, Adidas was sure to give this collaboration the flare they are known for. The Mandalorian’s helmet stamped on the silver tongue reflective accents throughout the Primeknit upper and other features on the silhouette pay homage to the Star Wars character. The sock liners also depict a scene with the show’s main characters, Din Djarin and The Child. The bronze and silver colorway and other features make this version of the NMD_R1 a memorable collaboration from Adidas’ vast collection.
Throughout this past decade, Joey Badass (stylized “Joey Bada$$”) has built himself one of hip hop’s strongest discographies. He is considered one of the best rappers of the 2010s and is well-deserving of that title. Joey has a music catalog to prove that he is one of the best and has cosigns from many different hip hop legends. He came up as a member of Pro Era alongside Capital STEEZ, Kirk Knight, CJ Fly, Nyck Caution, and others. So far, Joey Badass has released only three studio albums, two mixtapes, and an EP. He has consistently put out great songs with a “quality over quantity” approach.
This list ranks Joey Badass’s studio albums and mixtapes from worst to best. This list excludes Pro Era albums, mixtapes, and the Beast Coast album. Because Joey is so consistent, placing albums at the bottom is challenging, which speaks to just how strong his catalog is. Look at the list below, which starts at No. 5 and works its way up to Joey Badass’s best album.
5. 2000 (2022)
Last year marked the tenth anniversary of Joey’s debut mixtape, 1999, a very impactful project now considered a classic. Following a five-year gap between albums, Joey Badass released his third studio album, 2000, commemorating a decade of success. It is a stellar project but does not quite match the quality of his other albums in terms of both songwriting and production. Though 2000 does not stack up to his better albums, it has many standout songs. What makes it a unique album is that it comes from the perspective of Joey as an OG in the game. He may have only been 27 when the album was released, but it shows just how long Joey and Pro Era have existed in the scene. Essential Tracks: “Make Me Feel,” “Brand New 911,” ”Zipcodes,” “Head High,” “Survivors Guilt”
4. Summer Knights (2013)
Joey Badass’s second mixtape, 2013’s Summer Knights, is easily his most underrated project. While many view it as inferior to 1999, some of the best Joey Badass songs are on Summer Knights. “Hillary Swank” still remains one of Joey’s best songs. The mixtape doubles down on the throwback ‘90s sound he built his style around. It also included more original production, allowing Joey to find his voice.
He showcased new flows and cadences on the album that would become his signature. Summer Knights is also a significantly more personal project than 1999, following the death of Joey’s close friend and groupmate Capital STEEZ. Songs like “LongLiveSteelo” show a level of vulnerability that Joey had never tapped into previously. Summer Knights is a great mixtape, but its lengthy runtime and particular production choices place it at No. 4. Essential Tracks: “Hillary Swank,” “My Yout,” “Death of YOLO,” “95 Til Infinity,” “Unorthodox”
3. 1999 (2012)
When Joey Bada$$ released his debut mixtape 1999, he was only 17 years old and was still a student at Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn. With this mixtape, Joey and his fellow Pro Era groupmates helped reintroduce the classic boom-bap sound of the 1990s to a new generation. He built his sound around the sounds of the throwback style of instrumentals he chose. Some of these beats were original, while others were just some of Joey’s favorites.
Because not every sound is original and Joey hadn’t found his style yet, 1999 ranks third on this list. Joey managed to sound unique over a preexisting style while clearly emulating his influences, making for a quality mixtape. 1999 is now an all-time classic release and fan favorite that still gets brought up in hip hop discussions today. Essential Tracks: “Waves,” “Survival Tactics,” “Killuminati,” “Hardknock,” “World Domination”
2. ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$ (2017)
Joey Badass’s second studio album, 2017’s ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$, marked a significant change in sound and content for Joey. The production was more polished and musical, departing from the boom-bap-inspired sound many still pigeonhole Joey into. The songs on the album included live instrumentation and featured Joey at his most politically charged. The album’s central themes tackled Black oppression, both the past and present.
Even with the album’s serious messaging, Joey finds balance. There are politically-charged songs like “Babylon” and warm, celebratory tracks with catchy choruses like “Temptation.” Essential Tracks: “Temptation,” “Devastated,” “Rockabye Baby,” “Babylon,” “Legendary.”
1. B4.DA.$$ (2015)
Joey Badass’s first two mixtapes were amazing on their own, but they showed signs of potential that had yet to be unlocked. The mixtapes slowly led up to his highly-anticipated debut album, 2015’s B4.DA.$$, which is easily his best work. The album is phenomenal from top to bottom, balancing different moods and styles while sticking to a cohesive sound. A lot of the best Joey Badass songs are on this album. From the explosive “No. 99” to the nostalgic “Curry Chicken,” Joey showcases his versatility while remaining true to his sound.
B4.DA.$$ is a culmination of all of the best qualities of Joey’s previous releases and is undoubtedly his best album. It is a classic hip hop album and ranks high in his catalog and among the best rap albums of the 2010s. Essential Tracks: “Save The Children,” “Paper Trail$,” “Big Dusty,” “Hazeus View,” “Christ Conscious.”
Overall, Joey Badass has made some quality albums throughout the years, each with amazing songs. He has no bad records but has evolved so much over the years that some albums are more refined. The ranking of Joey’s catalog comes down to whether one prefers a more raw or refined style of rapping and production. Joey Badass started rapping at 17, and now over a decade into his career, he is still only 28 years old and continues to put out great albums. Hopefully, he does not take too long to release more music.
In the world of video games, certain characters stick with us long after we’ve finished playing the game. Characters like Mario, Lara Croft, Master Chief, and Kratos have become household names and icons of the gaming industry. These characters are so beloved and memorable because they were carefully crafted by their creators to be unique, engaging, and relatable. We’ll explore the art of creating memorable video game characters and the key factors that make them successful.
What Makes A Good Character?
Actress Nota Tschirner poses with the video game Lara Croft during a photo date in Hamburg, Germany, 16 January 2013. Tschirner will be the German dubbing voice of the eponymous protagonist of the computer game Lara Croft. Photo: Bodo Marks | usage worldwide (Photo by Bodo Marks/picture alliance via Getty Images)
When it comes to video games, many elements contribute to a game’s success. Everything must work together seamlessly, from the story and gameplay to the graphics and sound design, to create an enjoyable and engaging experience. However, one of the essential elements that can make or break a game is the characters. They are the driving force behind any story and are often why players become invested in a game. When players feel connected to a character, they are more likely to continue playing and become loyal fans of the franchise.
The Importance Of Character Design
One of the first steps in creating a memorable video game character is designing their appearance. The design of a character can impact how they are perceived by players. For example, a character with a unique and eye-catching design can stand out in a crowded market and become instantly recognizable. On the other hand, a poorly designed character can turn players off and hinder the success of a game. A good character design should be visually appealing and reflect the character’s personality and backstory.
For example, Lara Croft’s iconic outfit and weapons reflect her adventurous and daring personality, while Master Chief’s armor and helmet represent his stoic and no-nonsense attitude. The design should also be practical and functional within the context of the game’s world. A character that looks great but is difficult to control or interact with can ruin the player’s experience.
Creating Compelling Backstories
UNIVERSAL CITY, CA – SEPTEMBER 26: Universal Studios Hollywood promotes their upcoming Super Mario Bros themed ‘Super Nintendo World’ expansion to their theme park on the Universal CityWalk on September 26, 2022 in Universal City, California. (Photo by AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)
A character’s backstory is another crucial element in making them memorable. A well-crafted backstory can give players insight into the character’s motivations, fears, and desires. It can also create a sense of empathy and connection between the player and the character. A character with a relatable backstory can make players feel invested in their journey and eager to see how their story unfolds. When creating a character’s backstory, keeping it consistent with the game’s overall narrative is essential. The backstory should also be revealed gradually throughout the game. This allows the player to become invested in the character’s story and encourages them to keep playing to learn more.
Developing Strong Personalities
In addition to appearance and backstory, a character’s personality is another crucial element in making them memorable. A character’s personality can be conveyed through dialogue and actions with other characters. A well-written and fleshed-out personality can make a character feel like a real person, with their own quirks, flaws, and strengths. When developing a character’s personality, it’s essential to make them relatable to players. Players should be able to see themselves in the character and understand their motivations and actions. A character with a one-dimensional or cliché personality can come off as boring or uninteresting. In contrast, a complex and multi-faceted personality can make them feel more genuine and engaging.
Creating Characters That Evolve
Finally, a memorable video game character evolves. As the game’s story progresses, the character should change and grow, facing new challenges and overcoming obstacles. This evolution can create a sense of investment and attachment in the player as they see the character they’ve come to know and love become stronger and more capable. However, it’s essential that your video game characters commit to the iconic nature they started with. For example, if your character is cartoonish and lighthearted, changing themes midway through could compromise that look. Additionally, doing that could jar the audience. The essence of good writing and character design is moving forward with development while remaining consistent with a theme.
Iconic Memorability
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 13: An attendee takes a photograph near an ad for ‘God of War 4’ during the Electronic Entertainment Expo E3 at the Los Angeles Convention Center on June 13, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
In addition to a strong backstory, a character’s design can greatly influence memorability. Video game characters with unique and distinctive designs are often more memorable than generic or bland designs. For example, the character of Kratos from the God of War series is instantly recognizable with his red tattoos, ash-white skin, and iconic Blades of Chaos. Similarly, Lara Croft from the Tomb Raider series is known for her distinctive outfit and dual pistols. Moreover, the character’s appearance should be tied to their personality and backstory. This helps to make the character feel more cohesive and consistent. For instance, the design of Bayonetta, a character from the eponymous game, reflects her confident and seductive personality.
Voice & Dialogue
In addition to appearance and backstory, a character’s voice and dialogue are also critical in making them memorable. The voice actor’s performance can make or break a character’s impact on players. For example, Mark Hamill’s portrayal of the Joker in the Batman: Arkham series is one of the best depictions. His voice and performance perfectly capture the Joker’s maniacal and unpredictable nature. Moreover, well-written dialogue can further enhance a character’s memorability. Characters with unique and memorable catchphrases or one-liners can leave a lasting impression on players. For instance, the character GLaDOS from the Portal series is known for her sarcastic and dark humor. Her iconic lines bring out her personality with some shine for the audience.
Interactivity & Gameplay
A general view during the Sonic the Hedgehog 20th Anniversary Celebration at La Cour du Marais on June 8, 2011 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kristy Sparow/WireImage)
Lastly, a character’s interactivity and gameplay mechanics can also affect their memorability. Characters that offer unique and satisfying gameplay experiences can become fan favorites. One example is the case of Sonic the Hedgehog. He’s a fast hedgehog, and his games, as you could guess, are about speed. His design is simple, easy to look at, and, overall, agile.
Another example is video game characters like Kirby. He is known for his ability to absorb enemies and gain their powers, which adds a layer of strategy and excitement to gameplay. Moreover, how a character interacts with the game world can also impact their memorability. Characters that offer a sense of agency and freedom to players can be more memorable than those more limited in their actions.
What Makes Good Video Game Characters?
In conclusion, creating a memorable video game character requires careful consideration of various factors, including backstory, appearance, voice and dialogue, and interactivity. A memorable character can significantly enhance a player’s experience and leave a lasting impression on them. With the video game industry continually growing and evolving, this is more important than ever. Developers must create characters that stand out in a crowded market to sell good games. By taking the time to develop characters that are unique, relatable, and engaging, developers can create experiences that resonate with players long after the game is over.
Freestyling is an art form that dates back to hip hop’s origins. Radio stations have been the main hub for rappers to showcase their skills as freestyles happen during a press run, usually in the promotion of a new release. These freestyles are usually spat over preexisting beats but can also go over original production in some instances. There are many conflicting interpretations of what a freestyle can be. Some view it as a verse that is “free of style,” meaning that it can be pre-written or improvised. On the other hand, purists view a freestyle as a verse that is crafted on the spot. Some of the best radio freestyles in rap history have become heavily discussed moments in hip hop culture. This list takes a look at the greatest radio freestyles of all time.
Not all freestyles are improvised or recorded live. Therefore, this list consists of freestyles that were performed on radio shows. Any radio freestyles were eligible, and the criteria were based on the quality of bars, flow, and performance. Some freestyles contain lyrics from existing songs, which are generally ranked lower because of that. Look at the list, starting from number 10 and working up to number 1.
10. King Los – “5 Fingers Of Death” On Sway (2014)
The greatness of King Los‘s “5 Fingers of Death” freestyle is that the bars are improvised but are still top quality. The performance starts off relaxed and gradually escalates into an energetic freestyle that only gets better with each beat. It is a masterful demonstration of rapping great lyrics off the cuff. Los even gets Sway involved as he asks Sway mid-rap to suggest random words to mix into the freestyle.
9. Loyle Carner On Fire in the Booth (2017)
Loyle Carner delivered his landmark Fire in the Booth freestyle on the heels of his now-classic debut album, Yesterday’s Gone, back in 2017. The album was a sincere portrait of his personal life, contrasting with his freestyle as he showcases his ability to spit quality bars in a completely different setting. He starts over “Dust 2 Dust” by Chillinit, Huskii, and Flowz, a beat that is entirely different from the more subdued style of production that he typically raps on. He occupies a different lane within the UK rap scene, but this freestyle shows he belongs among the greats.
8. Avelino on Fire in the Booth (2017)
Avelino’s first two appearances on Fire in the Booth were in 2015, the second being his legendary freestyle alongside Wretch 32. By the time he came back for Part 3, he had built a name for himself in the UK scene, yet he still appeared as an underdog. The most impressive thing about Avelino’s third Fire in the Booth is that he raps over a Coldplay instrumental and to a significantly faster beat than usual.
Despite that, he did not miss a beat and made every line very clear. The wordplay in this freestyle is immaculate. He manages to weave in so many different references to the point where if you divert your attention for a second, you just might miss them. It’s the kind of freestyle where one will catch new lines with every revisit.
7. JAY-Z – “Grammy Family Freestyle” On Funk Flex (2006)
In 2006, JAY-Z returned to rapping after his short-lived retirement three years prior. Many doubted Hov’s skills at the time, especially around the release of his criminally underrated Kingdom Come album. The surrounding context makes his “Grammy Family” freestyle much more impactful. It was a monumental moment in hip hop as JAY-Z casually delivered one of the greatest freestyles ever. The freestyle is not even that long and still makes a grand statement of why Hov is the greatest. His flow, rhyme schemes, double entendres, combined with his confident approach, makes the freestyle legendary and completely eclipse the original “Grammy Family.”
6. Kano on Fire in the Booth (2016)
Much like the “Grammy Family” Freestyle, Kano’s 2016 Fire in the Booth was a reclaiming of the throne he once held. It was a grand return to the scene in promotion of Made in the Manor, released after a six-year break from music and is now an all-time classic. The beat of choice, J Dilla’s “Let the Dolla Circulate,” goes perfectly with Kano’s commanding rap voice. It is a masterclass in delivery as the beat is so spacious that it feels like Kano is delivering a powerful speech. He goes in for eight minutes and doesn’t miss a beat, even when Charlie Sloth cuts the beat for the last few bars.
5. Wretch 32 on Fire in the Booth (2017)
Wretch 32’s fourth appearance on Fire in the Booth is considered the best for a reason, but his fifth appearance two years later also deserves a high rank. Wretch’s ability to extend metaphors for an entire verse makes him one of the best. He rhymes over a stripped back version of Kanye West’s Blood on the Leaves, allowing him to meditate on recent events in the world. Wretch amazes even before the drums come in after rapping for three minutes. He then finishes by saying, “And if they don’t say I’m nice then they didn’t play it thrice,” as it takes that many listens to catch every detail.
4. Eminem, Royce Da 5’9″ & Mr. Porter on Tim Westwood (2010)
This particular freestyle appears more as a casual cypher between three friends. These friends happen to be legends. The Alchemist mans the decks and beats as Eminem, Royce Da 5’9″, and Mr. Porter rap for three rounds. Throughout the freestyle, the three continue to impress each other and encourage one another to step their games up. They each bring a unique style to the table. Porter is relaxed, Royce is aggressive, and Eminem is the quiet assassin. He stands quietly until it’s time to spit with intensity. Tim Westwood stands amazed as the three consistently out rap each other, resulting in one of the best radio freestyles.
3. Wretch 32 & Avelino on Fire In The Booth (2015)
Wretch 32 and Avelino pulled up to Fire in the Booth in 2015 to promote their collaborative mixtape. In my opinion, they ended up delivering two of the greatest verses in hip hop history. These verses were career-defining moments for both of them, making Avelino a force to be reckoned with, and solidifying Wretch as one of the greatest. Avelino raps with more emphasis on wordplay and schemes, whereas Wretch’s verse is heavy on metaphors and entendres.
Avelino sets the bar incredibly high, commanding the mic over Don Trip’s “All on Me.” Wretch does not flinch for a moment and quickly leaps beyond that bar with his verse. Charlie Sloth is so impressed by the verse that he wheels the track and has Wretch do his again. Wretch goes even harder on the second try, leaving Charlie speechless. Both verses are easily the greatest in the show’s history.
2. Big L & JAY-Z on Stretch & Bobbito (1995)
1995 was the year Big L released his first and only album during his lifetime. The record, Lifestyles ov da Poor & Dangerous was legendary as it displayed Big L’s incredible and highly influential rap style. That same year, L appeared on Stretch & Bobbito, one of the most important radio shows of the ’90s. He was joined alongside a pre-Reasonable Doubt JAY-Z, and together, they delivered one of hip hop radio’s most iconic freestyles.
Over Miilkbone’s “Keep It Real,” Big L and JAY-Z trade verses and raise the bar for each other. Big L went the hardest, spitting clever bars like, “I’m so ahead of my time, my parents haven’t met yet.” Jay’s flow is so far removed from the albums he would eventually put out, but the talent was there as he cleanly transitions between flows.
This freestyle is not only impressive because of its verses, but it happened at a time when radio was the only way to hear your favorite rapper debut unreleased verses outside of seeing them live. Radio freestyles were not the well-produced, polished events that they are now. The greatness of the freestyle was discussed in the 2016 documentary, Stretch & Bobbito. This freestyle is undoubtedly the greatest of its era.
1. Black Thought On Funk Flex (2017)
Black Thought’s 2017 freestyle on Funk Flex’s Hot 97 radio show hit the internet like a meteor. He singlehandedly raised the bar for what a radio freestyle should be, and he did it by rapping the way he has always delivered. Over Mobb Deep’s “The Learning,” Black Thought relentlessly raps for 10 minutes. Throughout the freestyle, his energy and lyricism never dip in quality, leaving the viewer holding onto every single lyric. Funk Flex’s reactions throughout the verse display just how filthy the freestyle is. In just a single take, this freestyle allowed Black Thought to showcase his skills as one of the best rappers ever.
The impact of this freestyle was almost immediate as one could witness the reactions in real time. Days after, he received his flowers on The Tonight Show. He even performed the freestyle in its entirety in Boston a few months later. Black Thoguth forever raised the standard for freestyling, positioning himself as an eternal legend.
Overall, these are the best radio freestyles amongst an extensive lineage of performances that have been a longstanding tradition in hip hop. Here are some of the best freestyles that did not quite make the list but still deserve mentioning:
Lil Kim was born Kimberly Denise Jones in Brooklyn, New York City. She is widely regarded as the original ‘Queen of Rap’ after her successful and trailblazing career in the ’90s and early 2000s. Kim would freestyle rap around New York City, citing influences from MC Lyte and Lady of Rage.
Fellow Brooklyn rapper, the late Notorious B.I.G., would discover her and assist with the start of a rap career. She has released five solo studio albums and one joint album with Junior M.A.F.I.A. Her albums Hard Core and The Notorious K.I.M. have both been certified 5X platinum by the RIAA. La Bella Mafia and The Naked Truth have also achieved double platinum status. These are some of her best songs from when she was at the top of the rap game.
“No Time” ft. Diddy (1996)
“No Time” was released as Lil Kim’s debut single in 1996 and served as the first from her introductory album Hard Core. The song peaked at No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the Top 10 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. “No Time” topped the US Rap Songs for nine weeks. Additionally, the single was certified Gold by the RIAA. Diddy and Steven ‘Stevie J’ Jordan produced the song. The two producers sampled Vicki Anderson’s “Message from the Soul Sisters” and Lyn Collins’s “Take Me Just As I Am” for the song. “No Time” was Lil Kim’s first chart-topping hit record.
“Not Tonight (Remix)” ft. Da Brat, Missy Elliott, Left Eye, & Angie Martinez (1997)
This record is another single from Lil Kim’s debut Hard Core album. The remix was released in 1997 and featured Da Brat, Left Eye (TLC), Missy Elliott, and Angie Martinez. It peaked at No. 2 on the US Rap Charts and six on the US Songs Charts. Armando Colon and Rashad Smith produced the song. It was featured on the Nothing to Lose soundtrack and contained samples of “Ladies’ Night” by Kool & the Gang. The song has been certified Platinum by the RIAA for selling a million units.
“Lady Marmalade” With Christina Aguilera, P!nk,& Mya (2001)
“Lady Marmalade” was officially a second No. 1 song for Lil Kim. The song served as part of the soundtrack to the musical film Moulin Rouge! It also features vocals from Christina Aguilera, Mya, and Pink. “Lady Marmalade” spent five weeks at the top of the US Billboard chart after a slow climb to No. 1. Additionally, the song topped the charts in Germany, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Australia. It achieved platinum status in these countries as well. “Lady Marmalade” serves as Lil Kim’s longest No. 1 song.
“Magic Stick” ft. 50 Cent (2003)
“Magic Stick” was from the album La Bella Mafia. It features vocals from fellow New Yorker Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. Lil’ Kim earned another No. 1 rap song with “Magic Stick.” The song also peaked at No. 2 on the US Singles Chart. Carlos “Fantom of the Beat” Evans produced the hit record. It was intended to be on 50 Cent’s magnum opus, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” but couldn’t make the cut because Lil Kim submitted her verse late. The single was a massive success despite not having an accompanying visual.
“Lighters Up” (2005)
Scott Storch produced “Lighters Up” and sampled elements of Damian Marley’s “Welcome to Jamrock.” MTV named the song Best Brooklyn Anthem in 2013. Lil Kim released the single on her fourth album, The Naked Truth. The song peaked at nine on the Rap Albums Chart and 31 on the US Singles Chart.
“It’s All About the Benjamins”(Remix) Diddy ft. Lil Kim, Notorious B.I.G., & The LOX (1997)
“It’s All About the Benjamins” originally debuted on DJ Clue’s Holiday Holdup mixtape and subsequently on Diddy’s debut No Way Out album. The LOX members Jadakiss and Sheek Louch provided vocals for the song. The remix included Lil Kim, Notorious B.I.G., and Missy Elliott’s addition. The single peaked at No. 1 on the US Rap Charts and No. 17 on the US Singles Chart. Additionally, the RIAA certified the record gold for half a million units sold in the United States.
The accompanying visuals won a Viewer’s Choice Award at the 1998 MTV Video Music Awards. “It’s All About the Benjamins” samples the song “I Did It for Love,” performed by Love Unlimited and written by Linda Laurie and Terry Etlinger. The verse performed by Notorious B.I.G. contains a sample from The Jackson 5 song “It’s Great to Be Here.”
“Money, Power, Respect” – The LOX ft. Lil Kim & DMX (1998)
“Money, Power, Respect” is a certified classic rap record from the legendary New York trio, the LOX. The group comprises hip-hop veterans Jadakiss, Styles P, and Sheek Louch. The song features Lil Kim in the chorus and DMX in the last verse. The LOX released the song as the second single from their debut album of the same name. The record saw success on the charts peaking at No. 1 on the US Rap Charts and No. 17 on the US Singles Chart. “Money, Power, Respect” was also certified gold by the RIAA. Hitmen members D-Dot and Amen-Ra produced the song.
This was another feature for Lil Kim. The song was a single from southern rap veteran Trick Daddy’s Thug Matrimony: Married to the Streets album. “Sugar” also features vocals from Ludacris and CeeLo Green. Ludacris’ vocals were left out of the video because he was absent during the official video shoot. However, he is on the official audio. The song peaked at No. 12 on the US Rap Charts and No. 20 on the Singles Chart.
“Let It Go” – Keyshia Cole ft. Lil Kim & Missy Elliott (2007)
This time, Lil Kim jumped on Keyshia Cole’s single “Let It Go” from the Just Be You album. The song peaked at No. 1 on the R&B and Hip-Hop Chart and No. 7 on the US Singles Chart. The RIAA certified “Let it Go” platinum. Additional vocals are provided by Missy Elliott. The song features samples from “Juicy Fruit” by Mtume and “Don’t Stop the Music” by Yarbrough and Peoples.
“Hit Em Wit Da Hee” – Missy Elliott ft. Lil Kim (1998)
“Hit Em with da Hee” is a record from Missy Elliott’s debut album Supa Dupa Fly.It was the last record to be released from the album and it peaked at number 61 on the Billboard R&B and Hip-hop Chart. Lil’ Kim delivers a guest verse on the song.
The latest Barbie trailer was recently released, and it’s given yet another insight into what the movie’s going to be about. Ahead of its July 21 arrival (the same day as Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer in an admittedly bold move), precious few details are out on the movie. Two trailers have been shared. The first was an homage to 2001: A Space Odyssey with shots pulled and recreated from Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi classic. The second was a showcase of some of the things to expect (namely the type of humor) and the basic premise. Here’s what we know so far.
Barbie 2023: Who’s In The Movie?
While it may not be competing with Nolan’s Oppenheimer in terms of sheer cast size and quality, the ensemble for Greta Gerwig’s third outing as a director is pretty exceptional. It’s led by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who will be playing Barbie and Ken, respectively. However, since there were a lot of different Ken dolls as well as the titular female and other characters, there were a lot more actors and actresses involved. Other notable names in the cast include John Cena, Helen Mirren, Will Ferrell, Du aLipa, Michael Cera, and Kate McKinnon.
It’s a pretty deep cast with a wide range of actors. Most of them are playing Kens or Barbies, but Michael Cera will be Allan, the random non-Ken doll that Barbie had briefly. Will Ferrell is the Mattel CEO from the real world. Other characters will likely be played by extras, as that is the extent of the cast on IMDb.
At first glance, the upcoming Barbie movie looks like a bit of a slapstick comedy about a doll trying to navigate the real world. That’s probably going to be true. The trailers indicate that Barbie and Ken are going to the real world, though it remains to be seen if that’s an intentional move or not. However, Greta Gerwig doesn’t make surface level movies. Lady Bird and Little Women are both excellent and deep films that have a lot of themes, motifs and ideas. One can reasonably expect Barbie to be the same.
Ultimately, this will likely shake out to be a bit of a coming of age story. Barbie lives in the Dreamworld where she and her doll counterparts run everything. It’s a true matriarch where the Ken dolls (and presumably Michael Cera’s Allan) are just accessories to Barbie. She’s headed for the real world where everything is patriarchal and she’s a woman that looks like Margot Robbie. She’s in for a big awakening and that’s likely going to be the underlying struggle.
Will Ken Be The Film’s Antagonist?
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 28: Ryan Gosling is seen on the set of the movie ‘Barbie’ on June 28, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bellocqimages/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)
It’s going to be the same for Ken, though. There’s a distinct possibility that Gosling’s Ken becomes the antagonist or at the very least a foil to Robbie’s Barbie. They could completely butt heads based on their discoveries. Ken will be leaving a world where he has no identity apart from being Barbie’s boyfriend. He’s nothing without her and he’s headed to a world where men are inherently valued more. It will be a big awakening for him, too, and it might reveal some internal conflict he didn’t know was there.
Both characters will be reckoning with the real world where their roles are significantly different. Barbie will be hit with the realization that the real world is much worse for her, but Ken will learn that it’s a lot better for him. Further, count on Gerwig to explore these themes with expert accuracy. She hasn’t missed on a movie yet and Barbie certainly doesn’t look like her first misfire. Her films have been beloved by critics, but this will be the least “artsy” of the three.
Barbie is an interesting lens to view this story through because she has been an important toy for young girls through the years. Can the movie be the same? Gerwig is an excellent choice to at least attempt to do the same. She’ll likely be successful, too. At first glance, the Barbie movie looks like a fun, colorful movie about a toy. While that’s going to remain true, it looks like it will be much deeper than that and will explore a lot of dark subject matter and themes. Nevertheless, it may end up being a popular film come awards season.
The Barbie movie hits theaters July 21, which means early showings will take place on Thursday, July 20. It’s unlikely that any more trailers will be released and the film’s true plot will be kept under wraps until then. That day will be a big one for cinemas everywhere. Will you be heading to see Barbie or Oppenheimer first? Both movies figure to do extremely well and it will be interesting to see which film outperforms the other. Fairly or not, they will be forever linked based on their release date. Based on the recent trailer’s humor, a PG-13 rating or higher is all but assured. However, Gerwig’s first two films were rated R (Lady Bird) and PG (Little Women).
Last week, Complex released its “Hip Hop Media Power Ranking” list of the most influential voices in hip hop media. Former rapper and now-successful podcast host Joe Budden topped the list for The Joe Budden Podcast. Following the list, there was a back-and-forth between Budden and his former co-hosts, Rory Farrell and Mal Clay, who now host the New Rory & Mal podcast.
From 2016 to 2021, Budden, alongside Rory and Mal, grew The Joe Budden Podcast into one of the most successful hip hop platforms. However, they split in 2021 because Joe allegedly stole money from Rory and Mal. The initial breakup was highly publicized. Though both parties have been successful, there have since been heated exchanges between the two podcasts. Here is a breakdown of Joe Budden’s beef with Rory and Mal.
Rising Tension Between Friends
Fans first noticed the tension between members of The Joe Budden Podcast in 2020. Joe and Rory would occasionally talk about fighting one another, as well as fighting Mal. During a 2020 skit to help launch The Joe Budden Podcast Network, Rory slipped in a joke about “seeing the accountant.” While not understood by fans at the time, that remark can be considered as an early sign of their bubbling feud.
The Initial Break
The Episode 424 of The Joe Budden Podcast in March 2021 marked the first episode without Rory and Mal. Joe told the two to “take a few pods off.” The reasons behind this were unknown. Budden’s friends, Ice and Ish, assumed what were thought to be temporary positions as co-hosts alongside Parks and Savon.
The Joe Budden Podcast Falls Apart
The stress between Joe Budden and Rory and Mal reached a breaking point during their final episodes on the podcast. During the two episodes, they tried to carry on as usual but conflicted on whether or not they owed each other respect as friends. Rory and Mal sided with each other, while Parks stuck by Joe. At this point, the reasons behind their tension were still unclear. The following episode after Rory and Mal’s final appearances was the infamous Episode 437. In this podcast, Joe can be seen talking to an empty room, expressing his anger towards Rory and Mal, and officially firing them from the show.
Aftermath Post-Breakup
Following their departure from The Joe Budden Podcast, Rory and Mal released a response video addressing Joe’s remarks about them in Episode 437. They reveal the reason behind their argument is that Joe allegedly stole money from them and would not show them to see the books. Joe argued that he made Rory and Mal’s success, and they should be grateful for him.
On the other hand, Rory and Mal claimed that he would not be where he is without them. The pair launched New Rory & Mal in June 2021 and signed a deal with SiriusXM’s Stitcher platform soon after. Simultaneously, Joe rebrands The Joe Budden Podcast with Parks, Ice, and Ish as his co-hosts. As two separate entities, both podcasts have continued to exchange subliminal jabs at one another.
Rory and Mal’s podcast launch and tour announcement videos included sneak disses toward Joe, referring to his remarks about them, his shady business practices, and his tour cancellation. Mal and Joe would diss each other when asked about the falling out in their independent podcasts and interviews. During an interview, Mal said he’d “shake the room before [he’d] shake [Joe’s] hand” if he saw him.
Beef Reignited
Following these subliminal disses, the beef between Joe Budden and Mal has been reignited a few times. In October 2022, Joe spoke directly about Rory and Mal in a JBP episode titled “Accountability In The Culture.” Rory and Mal fired back at him a few days later with an episode titled “Accountability In The Culture, Part II.” Mal goes off, saying that it “pains [Joe]” to see them thriving, and tells Budden to show them the accounting once and for all.
The most recent exchanges between Budden, Rory, and Mal happened afterthe latter two reacted to Joe’s placement on Complex’s list during a Patreon episode, calling him “the cat burglar.” Following that episode, Joe disses Rory and Mal directly despite addressing them by name. He talked about how they put in a low effort in their podcasting. He also said they should not speak about him since they didn’t even make Complex’s list, dubbing them the “Bare Minimum Boys.” Rory then directly tells Joe to stop talking about him and move on during their response, aptly titled “Bare Minimum Boys.” Despite that, Joe continued to poke fun at Rory and Mal.
Where Both Podcasts Stand
Overall, the Rory and Mal era of The Joe Budden Podcast was a special time in podcasting. Though both parties are successful today, that era was them at their best. The Joe Budden Podcast remains in the top three global music podcast charts. Earlier this year, the JBP added new members, Trevor “QueenzFlip” Robinson and Melyssa Ford, bringing a new lively energy to the podcast. Joe also started Humans, an interview show about people with unique experiences. Rory & Mal successfully toured North America last year, including a sold-out show in London. They have a very loyal fanbase and have conducted a variety of interviews.
While superhero movies may be slowing down, video game movies and adaptations appear to be heating up. Sonic the Hedgehog, The Last of Us, Tetris, Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, and many more have come out in recent years. Most of them have been major hits with fans, critics, and sometimes both.
The Super Mario Bros. Moviejust came out and has already smashed records in one weekend. It’s projected to become the highest-grossing video game movie of all time by a wide margin. It also feels like an event in time. People may not have realized what Iron Man would kickstart in 2008, but it certainly feels like this is the precipice of a new MCU- the Mario Cinematic Universe. It’s clear that video game movies and projects are all the rage right now. With a vast library of video games to pull from, which characters need to get their own movies?
Video Game Movies Need Characters Like Pac-Man & Samus
Retro Video Arcade Game
While Pac-Man was a part of the movie Pixels, the character needs its own video game adaptation. Pac-Man may not seem like a good game to adapt to the big screen, but studios have found a way to bring Sonic and Tetris to the theaters somehow, so Pac-Man can be done, too. Pac-Man has been around a long time and is a staple of gaming. It’s high time it was brought into some legitimate video game adaptation.
There were rumors of a Metroid project and that Brie Larson would star as Samus Aran, but there’s no official confirmation. The fact that one of the most iconic video game protagonists and a leading lady hasn’t even been considered for a major motion picture is a bit surprising. She may get lost in the shuffle with Nintendo’s vast library of characters. However, as more characters adapt, there’s no reason to ignore the Metroid franchise.
The Lack of Legend of Zelda Video Game Movies Is Unbelievable
SAN DIEGO, CA – JULY 21: Chris Evans playing The Legend of Zelda 3D at Nintendo’s Arts & Cinema Centre while at Comic Con promoting “Captain America” on July 21, 2011 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Todd Williamson/WireImage)
The fact that no one has ever tried to make a Legend of Zelda movie is a huge surprise. Studios made a live-action Mario movie in the 1990s, and it was awful. Yet, a movie set in Hyrule can’t be done? There’s never even been a legitimate rumor about a project in development, either.
Zelda is one of the video game franchises that could easily be live-action or animated. If they want to build a Nintendo universe, it could be animated. Either way, Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, and others could and should be adapted sooner rather than later. It’s also a video game franchise with a few clear storylines. That alone makes adapting video game movies for this franchise much easier than others. It has recognizable characters that could easily become some of the best video game movie characters.
A GTA Movie Would Be Pretty Easy to Make
BRAZIL – 2021/10/06: In this photo illustration the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) logo seen displayed on a smartphone. (Photo Illustration by Rafael Henrique/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Video game movies don’t have to be fun, colorful, and intended for kids. Tons of video games are definitively not for children. The Last of Us may be the best video game adaptation of all time, and it is not for a young audience. Any rated M game could follow in its footsteps now.
For this reason, a GTA movie based around CJ or one of the other characters would be excellent. It would easily be the most morally complex video game movie and draw a major audience. There is plenty of games’ worth of stories to draw from, too.
Arthur Morgan Would Be An Excellent Protagonist
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 09: In this photo illustration a gamer plays the video game ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ (RDR 2) on January 9, 2019 in Paris, France. Red Dead Redemption 2, typographed Red Dead Redemption II is an action-adventure and multi-platform western video game developed by Rockstar Studios and published by Rockstar Games released on October 26, 2018. In the UK, ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ has been number 1 in sales for the past two weeks and has been designated the 2018 Christmas Game. (Photo Illustration by Chesnot/Getty Images)
Red Dead Redemption would be an excellent video game project, primarily due to Arthur Morgan. He’s one of the best video game protagonists ever, and both games have devoted fan bases. He was a relatively morally good character in a time and setting with few. That alone makes for a good story.
They’re also relatively plot-based. An old Western movie centered on Arthur Morgan and the world of RDR would be easy enough to pull off. There are enough side characters to justify a movie, too. The setting would be one of the most exciting parts, as well.
If They’re Building A Nintendo Universe, Kirby Must Be Included
CULVER CITY, CA – JUNE 22: In this photo provided by Nintendo of America, Peyton List from “Bunk’d” attends the Kirby: Planet Robobot event celebrating the games launch at Smashbox Studios in Culver City, California, on June 22, 2016. In this new action-packed adventure, Kirby gets new abilities and transformations, such as flamethrower arms and buzz-saw hands. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for Nintendo of America)
Whether or not Nintendo intends to bring its properties together on-screen as they have with the Super Mario Bros. franchise remains to be seen. However, if they bring Zelda in and continue with Mario, they must consider Kirby. Undoubtedly, Kirby is one of the most beloved and fun characters in their library. He exists in a fun world that would make for excellent viewing- much like the Mushroom Kingdom did for The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Bright, pink, and colorful would make a good animated film.
Isabelle And Tom Nook Need A Film
Goods of Nintendo game character Isabelle, known as Shizue in Japan, from the Animal Crossing series of video games are displayed at a new Nintendo store during a press preview in Tokyo on November 19, 2019. – Nintendo opens the doors this week at its first brick-and-mortar store in Tokyo, offering everything from Super Mario mugs to Zelda handbags at a complex targeting visiting gamers and local enthusiasts. (Photo by Behrouz MEHRI / AFP) (Photo by BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP via Getty Images)
There would be plenty to choose from in making an Animal Crossing movie, but two of the most consistent and iconic characters should lead it: Tom Nook and Isabelle. They run the towns that players live in, and everyone knows who they are and what they do. Animal Crossing is a life simulator, so the possibilities for a movie are endless. These villagers and characters just live life, which often makes for the best movies. A slice-of-life film with animal protagonists could be something like Zootopia, which was a hit.
A Fortnite Film Is All But Promised
SOUTH PASADENA, CA – APRIL 23: 11-year-old Ansel, the photographer’s son, plays Fortnite featuring Travis Scott Presents: Astronomical on April 23, 2020 in South Pasadena, California. Travis Scott + Cactus Jack have partnered with Fortnite to produce Astronomical, a one of a kind in-game experiential performance and the world premiere of a new song. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images)
The Fortnite storyline is very loose and held together by threads, but it is there. That alone makes a movie pretty likely. Plus, it’s one of the most popular video games in recent memory, so it would be like printing money. Since it debuted in 2017, it’s exploded onto the scene, and people would flock to the movie.
Jonesy is perhaps the most popular skin and could easily be the protagonist. There are storyline aspects and lore to tap into that could make for a genuinely interesting movie. There are also countless characters to bring in, though some of the crossovers would be interesting from a legal standpoint.
Make The CoD Zombies Movie Now
VENICE, CA – APRIL 03: Philadelphia Eagles Running Back LaSean McCoy Goes Head-To-Head Against All-Pro Receiver A.J. Green Of The Cincinatti Bengals On Xbox One In The Call Of Duty: Ghosts Celebrity Grudge Match To Celebrate The Launch Of Devastation DLC Map Pack at Microsoft House on April 3, 2014 in Venice, California. (Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for Activision)
The Call of Duty zombies storyline is fascinating, but there’s not a lot of information there. There are connections, but a lot of it is decided by fan theories. Making a movie helmed by Edward Richtofen himself would be so good. Finally, explaining it all would be reason enough for gamers to get into the theater on opening night.
As flimsy as it is, the storyline that did exist is fascinating, and there’s a lot to explore there. Plus, with precious few details, the creative license for a director would be an enticing advantage. If this movie doesn’t get made, many gamers will be upset.
A Real Pokémon Video Game Movies Franchise With Ash Ketchum
Pokemon, popular game characters of Japanese video game giant Nintendo are displayed at a shop in Tokyo, 25 July 2007. Nintendo said its net profit soared more than five-fold in the fiscal first quarter as its breakthrough Wii console and handheld machines flew off the shelves. Net earnings jumped to 80.25 billion yen (669 million USD) in the three months to June from 15.55 billion yen a year earlier. AFP PHOTO / Yoshikazu TSUNO (Photo credit should read YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP via Getty Images)
The Detective Pikachu movie is good. It’s a lot of fun, and the CGI on the actual Pokémon is incredible. However, it’s more of a people movie in a world with Pokémon. A Pokémon movie needs to follow Ash Ketchum, though he wasn’t technically in any games.
Nevertheless, there’s plenty of story and lore to tap into and a whole world of possibilities. This, too, could be a part of the Nintendo Universe if that’s the road they opt to go down. As it stands, the Detective Pikachu franchise couldn’t overlap with The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Jack Black, born Thomas Jacob Black, is a California actor, musician, and comedian. Black has had an extensive career in music, television, and film. He’s a celebrated creative in Hollywood, and his comedic takes have made for classic cult lines that fans still say today. He’s also worked with his band Tenacious D, and on the silver screen, Black has been featured in the Jumanji franchise, Kung Fu Panda blockbusters, and dozens of other hit features.
With a decades-long career under his belt, Jack Black has more than enough fan favorites. While our list isn’t necessarily exhaustive, we’re diving into a few noteworthy Jack Black movies that can’t be ignored. From his recent appearance in The Super Mario Bros. Movie to jammin’ in School of Rock, here are my favorite Jack Black films.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
Black lent his voice to the new Super Mario Bros. film alongside Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, and Seth Rogan. Jack voices Bowser in the film. He is also the main antagonist. The film also features the origin story of brothers Mario and Luigi. These two characters are quite popular in video gaming, with several best-selling games. The film’s plot follows the two as they are transported to an alternate universe and become entangled between two kingdoms. One of the kingdoms is Bowser’s. The Super Mario Bros. Movie generally received positive reviews upon its release. It has so far grossed over $377 million in worldwide ticket sales. Additionally, the movie is currently on its theatrical run.
The House With W Clock In Its Walls (2018)
Jack Black plays the warlock Jonathan Barnavelt in this fantasy comedy based on the 1973 novel of the same name. John Bellairs wrote the original novel. The plot follows the adventures of Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan who moves in with his uncle Jonathan. The movie further explores the relationship between Lewis and his uncle as the 10-year-old learns magic. He would eventually help Jonathan uncover the mystery of a magic clock. From a $42 million production budget, the film grossed over $130 million at the global box office.
Jumanji Film Series (2017 – )
The Jumanji series is a movie franchise based on the children’s books Jumanji (1981) and its sequel Zathura (2002). The movie revolves around people being mysteriously sucked into an enchanted video game. Finishing all the game levels is the only way to get out of the game. Jack Black stars alongside comedian Kevin Hart and franchise magnet Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. The actors have also starred in two out of the four live-action Jumanji films. Jack plays Professor Sheldon ‘Shelly’ Oberon, an expert scientist, and is the avatar of Bethany (played by Madison Iseman).
Gulliver’s Travels (2010)
Gulliver’s Travels is a fantasy adventure comedy film where Jack Black plays the role of Lemuel Gulliver. Lemuel is a struggling news reporter sent on a mission to uncover the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle. After arriving in the triangle, he is mysteriously sucked in by a water spout and magically transported to an island of tiny people. The themes lightheartedly revolve around love, envy, and acceptance. Emily Blunt, T.J. Miller, and Amanda Pete also star in the film.
Kung Fu Panda Film Franchise (2007 – )
Jack has consistently reprised his role as the voice of Po in the DreamWorks animated franchise Kung Fu Panda. The franchise includes films and television spin-off shows. Generally, the plot follows the adventures of Po, the Kung Fu panda, with his friends and fellow warriors in different quests. DreamWorks has officially announced Kung Fu Panda 4, slated for 2024. Jack Black is expected to continue voicing Po in the new sequel. The Kung Fu Panda movies have, over the years, seen massive box office success. The franchise is estimated to have grossed over $1.8 billion across the three released films. Jack Black has also been consistently lauded for his incredible voice acting in the franchise.
King Kong (2005)
King Kong is an epic adventure monster film and is also the eighth sequel in the King Kong movie franchise. King Kong follows the unsanctioned adventures of film director Carl Denham (Jack Black). He lies to his crew and actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts) about shooting a film in the SS Venture ship. However, Carl intends to film the mythical Skull Island.
SS Venture coincidentally shipwrecks on Skull Island, and the crew encounters savage natives of the Island. King Kong, a 25-foot-tall ape, also lives on the island. The natives periodically offer human sacrifices to the ape. The film then dives into the relationship between King Kong and actress Ann Darrow. The relationship is juxtaposed with the efforts of Jack and company to free her from the monster. Kong is eventually killed in a confrontation with the Navy as the movie concludes. The film succeeded at the global box office, raising over $560 million in its theater run.
School Of Rock (2003)
School of Rock is a 2003 comedy film featuring Jack Black alongside Mike White and Sarah Silverman. The movie grossed $131 million at the global box office from a $35 million budget. Black stars as a music teacher who is set to turn a young group os students into a full-fledged rock band. The film largely received positive reviews, with critics praising Black’s performance. It is one of the highest-grossing music-themed comedy films of all time, sitting behind 2015’s Pitch Perfect.
RETURN OF THE MONEY WINGS 
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