Run-D.M.C. Documentary “Kings From Queens” Gets First Trailer

The first trailer for Kings From Queens, a documentary about Run-D.M.C., has been Threleased online. The trailer for the Peacock series features a wealth of hip-hop royalty discussing the impact of the pioneering rap group. “They’re the reason that hip-hop is as big as it is right now,” Ice Cube asserts. “They changed the sound of music, the audience for rap music,” Mike D of the Beastie Boys adds.

The series is not just another documentary about an influence group, however. The series is being executive produced by Rev Run and DMC themselves. “This documentary series will reach, teach and educate people on the Run-D.M.C. dynamic. I know people will see themselves in our journey and I am hopefully that the next 50 years of hip-hop will be a movement of positive improvement and creativity, in the same way we changed music and the world,” DMC said in a statement. The series will drop later this year.

Read More: ESPN To Release Hip Hop 50 Documentary Narrated By Busta Rhymes

Steph Curry Producing Mac Dre Documentary

However, Kings from Queens is far from the only hip-hop documentary in the works. Last year, Steph Curry‘s production company, Unanimous Media, has begun work on a documentary about Bay Area music icon Mac Dre. “Mac Dre is a cultural icon who made a tremendous impact on the Bay Area and beyond through his music and pioneering creativity. We’re honored to work with Mac Dre’s incredible mother, Wanda, to tell her son’s life story with respect and dignity for fans, the Bay Area community, and music lovers alike,” Curry and Unanimous co-founder told Billboard.

Meanwhile, the aforementioned Wanda also spoke with Billboard. “I look forward to sharing how from Andre’s dreams of rapping emerged a blueprint that not only inspired a generation but also became a guide to conquering obstacles and fulfilling their entrepreneurial dreams,” she told the outlet. Mac Dre was a pioneer of the Hyphy movement of the early 2000s. However, he was shot and killed in a drive-by attack on Route 71 in 2004.

Read More: Jamie Foxx To Produce Luther Vandross Documentary

[via]

The post Run-D.M.C. Documentary “Kings From Queens” Gets First Trailer appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Peacock Unveils RUN DMC ‘Kings From Queens’ DocuSeries

Peacock Unveils RUN DMC 'Kings From Queens' DocuSeries

Peacock has announced the release of a three-part hip-hop documentary series titled Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story. Produced by Believe Entertainment Group, the series delves into the influential journey of the iconic hip-hop pioneers RUN DMC.

Taking viewers back to the 1980s, the docuseries explores how Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell revolutionized the music scene, not only in Queens but globally.

Featuring exclusive interviews with RUN DMC and prominent figures in hip-hop such as Ice Cube, LL COOL J, Questlove, and more, the documentary unveils the untold story of the group. The narrative touches on their cultural impact, breaking racial barriers, and becoming international stars and fashion leaders in the ’80s.

“I am very happy that the world is going to see our great story,” said artist and executive producer, Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons. “So thankful for all that participated in helping us over the years. I started out as a young DJ Run and ended up impacting the world with my group RUN DMC. I am blessed to have been on this amazing journey.” 

Artist and executive producer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels added, “This documentary series will reach, teach and educate people on the RUN DMC dynamic. I know people will see themselves in our journey and I am hopefully that the next 50 years of Hip Hop will be a movement of positive improvement and creativity, in the same way we changed music and the world.”

Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story is set to premiere on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with a runtime of 3 x 60 minutes. Directed by Kirk Fraser, the series is executive produced by Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and others, promising an in-depth look at the groundbreaking journey of the legendary rap group.

The post Peacock Unveils RUN DMC ‘Kings From Queens’ DocuSeries first appeared on The Source.

The post Peacock Unveils RUN DMC ‘Kings From Queens’ DocuSeries appeared first on The Source.

John Legend Releases New Single “Don’t Need To Sleep” From Documentary ‘We Dare To Dream’

John Legend is Joined by Muni Long for New Song and Video "Honey"

Multiplatinum, 12-time Grammy® Award-winner John Legend shares a new single entitled “Don’t Need To Sleep” out today via Republic Records. It soars as a standout from the We Dare To Dream Soundtrack available on all DSPs. Executive produced by EGOT® superstar Legend and Academy® Award winner Angelina Jolie, the acclaimed 2023 Tribeca Festival selection and refugee sports documentary, We Dare To Dream, is now streaming exclusively on Peacock.

Legend notably co-wrote “Don’t Need To Sleep” with Justin Tranter and Oak Felder—who also produced the song. On the track, soft strings unspool underneath striking and soulful verses punctuated by piano. It culminates on the climactic chorus as he reminds, “Don’t need to sleep to dream.

Be on the lookout for a powerful music video to accompany the song soon.

The post John Legend Releases New Single “Don’t Need To Sleep” From Documentary ‘We Dare To Dream’ first appeared on The Source.

The post John Legend Releases New Single “Don’t Need To Sleep” From Documentary ‘We Dare To Dream’ appeared first on The Source.

7 Holiday Movies To Watch On Peacock In November 2023

The magic of the holiday season remains potent, and households across the globe look forward to the end of 2023. Between Halloween in October, Thanksgiving in November, and Christmas in December, there’s plenty of seasonal cheer in the final quarter of each year. Although it’s a time to spend time with loved ones, the ever-growing number of streaming subscribers anticipate new and classic holiday flicks. As a result, many holiday-themed movies have set up camp on Peacock.

Netflix also boasts some fun holiday movies, and Peacock is slowly catching up. Over the years, several classics have been released, as well as many more modest offerings. However, while some of these films can be quite unoriginal, they are almost never lacking in heart and cheer. Here’s a selection of some of the best and most entertaining holiday movies available on Peacock right now.  

Read More: 7 Holiday Movies To Watch On Prime Video In November 2023

7. A Stone Cold Christmas (2018)

While this is not the most critically acclaimed offering out there, it is a good Christmas movie with a ton of heart nonetheless. A Stone Cold Christmas is an urban retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, and features a predominantly Black cast. The story revolves around Mia Stone (played by Demetria McKinney), a successful businesswoman known for her tough and no-nonsense attitude. Further into the story, her icy exterior begins to melt, and eventually, she opens up her heart to the joy of Christmas. 

6. 12 Days Of Christmas Eve (2004)

12 Days Of Christmas Eve stars Steven Weber in the lead role. He portrays the character Calvin Carter, a self-absorbed businessman who is more concerned about his career than his relationships. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve when Calvin finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day repeatedly. Basically, Calvin’s predicament befalls him to teach a lesson about the importance of kindness and empathy. Over the course of the story, he is given 12 chances to right his wrongs and mend his fractured relationships. Molly Shannon stars in a supporting role as the Angel who oversees Calvin’s “rehabilitation.” The cast and story of this movie are also charming and endearing. 12 Days of Christmas Eve is certainly one of the movies you should see on Peacock this holiday season. 

5. Almost Christmas (2016)

Previously titled A Meyers Christmas, this hilarious comedy-drama film directed by David E. Talbert, revolves around the dysfunctional Meyers family. Following the death of their beloved matriarch, they come together to celebrate their first Christmas after her passing. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Gabrielle Union, Kimberly Elise, Mo’nique, Danny Glover, and Romany Malco, among others.

Initially, as the family members reunite, old grudges and sibling rivalries, among other things, resurface, consequently leading to comedic situations. Subsequently, in the five days they spend together, they mend their relationships and rediscover the bond they share as a family. One of the holiday movies perfect for either Thanksgiving or Christmas, Almost Christmas should surely be on your Peacock watchlist this season.

4. One Special Night (1999)

Veteran actors and frequent collaborators Julie Andrews and James Garner play the two central characters in One Special Night. The story takes place between Thanksgiving and Christmas and follows the lives of two lonely individuals who find unexpected companionship and love. As the story unfolds, Robert (played by Garner) and Catherine (played by Andrews) form a deep emotional connection. One Special Night is a poignant tale that reminds viewers of the magic of the holiday season. Likewise, it brings to mind the potential for love to blossom in unexpected places.

Read More: Christmas Day Netflix Essentials

3. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)

Set against the snowy backdrop of Finland, this dark fantasy movie offers a fresh and twisted take on the traditional Christmas tale. The story revolves around young Pietari Kontio, who discovers the dark secret behind the legend of Santa Claus. As children in a nearby village go missing, and reindeer are found slaughtered, Pietari starts to piece together the truth. Unlike most other Christmas tales, Rare Exports skillfully combines elements of horror, fantasy, and dark comedy. In short, Rare Exports is a standout entry in the genre of unconventional holiday movies and is available to stream on Peacock.

2. This Christmas (2007)

This Christmas revolves around the Whitfield family, who come together to celebrate Christmas under one roof for the first time in years. The film explores the dynamics of their relationships at length, uncovering many family secrets along the way. Also, the challenges and joys that come with being together during the holiday season are equally revealed. This Christmas features impressive performances from Loretta Devine, Regina King, and Idris Elba, among others. Chris Brown also showed off his musical chops in the movie, as well as his acting skills. Overall, the movie has the perfect blend of humor, drama, and romance, and also features a great soundtrack. What’s not to love?

1. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

George Seaton’s 1947 classic is everything a holiday movie should be. The story’s central character is Kris Kringle (played by the late Edmund Gwenn). Kringle is a kind-hearted elderly man who claims to be the real Saint Claus and eventually gets people to believe it too. Gwen’s portrayal of the character earned him numerous accolades, and rightly so. The film explores themes of faith, belief, and the importance of imagination. Furthermore, it is widely celebrated for its heartwarming story, strong performances, and timeless message. Miracle on 34th Street is undoubtedly one of the best holiday movies available on Peacock right now.

[via]

The post 7 Holiday Movies To Watch On Peacock In November 2023 appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Will Smith Shares His Mixed Feelings On His Family Finding Fame

Will Smith has always had a tumultuous journey with fame. While he himself skyrocketed to success as both an actor and a rapper in the 90s, he didn’t have a fully famous family until later on. According to Page Six, he sat down on a recent episode of Kevin Hart’s interview show Hart To Heart and discussed family matters. Smith referred to 2010 as his greatest year as both an artist and a parent. He cited Jaden’s film Karate Kid and Willow’s song “Whip My Hair” as major accomplishments that released in 2010. “I’m building this dream of a family I’ve had in my mind. I’m going to do it better than my father did it.” Smith says on the show.

Pretty much 2010 to 2012 I had achieved everything I had ever dreamed,” Will Smith elaborated. Despite how successful he felt for himself and his family he also admits it didn’t make them happier. “Nobody in my family was happy,” he explains later in the show. He compared the family’s fame to a “platoon” and decried that eventually, nobody wanted to be a part of it. “Willow was the first one to begin the mutiny and it was my first realization that success and money don’t mean happiness.” He concludes the interview reflecting on the lesson that taught him. “Up until that point, I really believed that you could succeed your way to a house and a family and you could win your way to happiness.”

Will Smith Opens Up On His Famous Family

Earlier this year Will Smith and Martin Lawrence took to social media to announce that Bad Boys 4 was officially coming. A few months later they were spotted filming some scenes for the movie in Atlanta. Unsurprisingly those shots featured mostly car chases and shootouts. Since then, new updates on the film’s progress have been pretty difficult to come by. Many have wondered if either of the ongoing strikes could impact its release.

What do you think of Will Smith opening up on his families issues with fame? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Will Smith Voices Support For SAG-AFTRA & WGA Strike: “Pivotal Moment”

[Via]

The post Will Smith Shares His Mixed Feelings On His Family Finding Fame appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Twisted Metal: Peacock, Release Date, Trailer, Cast, Characters and More

Twisted Metal is a highly anticipated American post-apocalyptic action-comedy television series slated for release on the streaming service Peacock​. Michael Jonathan Smith developed the show, taking inspiration from the vehicular combat video game franchise of the same name, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Release Date

Peacock plans to air the series on July 27, 2023, with a scheduled 10-episode season​​. The cast and crew filmed the series in New Orleans between May and August 2022. Sony Pictures Television and Playstation Productions began developing the series in May 19 (via IGN). Peacock subsequently ordered the full season in February 2022.

Read More: Anthony Mackie Net Worth 2023: What Is The Star Worth?

Trailer

The first trailer for the series was released on April 28, 2023, and featured Anthony Mackie, who plays the lead role of John Doe, revving up his engine in the barren wasteland that is the setting of the show​.

Cast And Characters

Anthony Mackie stars as John Doe in Peacock's "Twisted Metal."
HOLLYWOOD, CA – MARCH 13: Anthony Mackie arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” held at the El Capitan Theatre on March 13, 2014 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic)

The series boasts a stellar cast that includes Anthony Mackie, Stephanie Beatriz, Thomas Haden Church, Samoa Joe, Will Arnett, and Richard Cabral. Mackie stars as John Doe, a loquacious milkman who suffers from amnesia. Beatriz portrays Quiet, an impulsive car thief who assists John Doe in his mission. Church plays the role of Agent Stone. Meanwhile. while Samoa Joe and Will Arnett team up to bring the character of Sweet Tooth to life. Joe physically plays the role and Arnett provides the voice. Lastly, Richard Cabral portrays a character known as Loud​.

In addition to the main cast, the series also features recurring roles played by Neve Campbell, Tahj Vaughans, Mike Mitchell, Lou Beatty Jr., Michael Carollo, and Chloe Fineman​.

Read More: 10 Netflix Originals To Watch Right Now

The Premise

The storyline of Twisted Metal revolves around John Doe, who is given the task of travel across a post-apocalyptic wasteland to deliver a mysterious package to stay alive. Assisted by Quiet, John Doe seizes the opportunity to alter his life for the better. However, to achieve his goal, he must confront merciless marauders who pilot deadly and destructive vehicles. The journey promises intense action, high-speed chases, and a test of survival in a world gone mad​.

Twisted Metal is shaping up to be an exciting addition to Peacock’s lineup of shows. Thanks to its unique premise, talented cast, and connection to a beloved video game franchise, Twisted Metal is shaping up to live up to the anticipation. Fans of the games and newcomers alike can look forward to the series premiere on July 27, 2023.

The post Twisted Metal: Peacock, Release Date, Trailer, Cast, Characters and More appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Cardi B Clearly Loved A Gospel Version Of One Of Her Hits From Chlöe’s New Movie ‘Praise This’

As Chlöe’s debut solo album In Pieces finds its way onto the Billboard charts, the rising star’s new movie Praise This is now streaming on Peacock. The movie, which follows a gospel praise team as they enter a national competition, features a number of gospel covers of pop and R&B hits, including a cleaned-up version of Cardi B’s 2018 hit “Money” by contemporary Christian singer Koryn Hawthorne.

Where Cardi’s original version celebrates getting “Money,” Hawthorne adds religious messaging but keeps the spirited flow that took the original all the way to No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Hawthorne celebrated the film’s release with a tweet capturing Cardi’s reaction to hearing the remix in the studio. In the video, Cardi can be seen beaming from ear to ear as she throws her hands and sings along to the revamped lyrics.

Praise This is getting a more uniformly positive reception from fans than In Pieces did; it’s likely that the gospel-centric film resonates more strongly with the tastes of many of Chlöe’s earliest supporters. (Chlöe made her film debut in her mentor Beyoncé’s similarly gospel-inspired film Fighting Temptations, and that first impression has clearly stuck with fans who aren’t feeling the young singer’s shift to a more mainstream sound.)

Chlöe addressed that criticism recently on her hometown radio, positing that her loudest critics actually weren’t around for her and her sister Halle’s humble beginnings. The truth is, many artists often face harsh criticisms as they grow creatively, and if anything, it’s a sign that people are truly invested. That’s a good sign for Chlöe’s burgeoning career, as it means no matter what direction she decides to pursue, she’s at least guaranteed a captive audience.

Praise This is out now on Peacock. In Pieces is also out now via Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records. Find more information here.

Does ‘Bel-Air’ Continue To Live Up To The Hype?

Bel-Air, the reimagined version of the beloved 90s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, sprang onto TVs with great excitement and hype. The series promised to explore themes of race, class, and identity as it dove deeper into the characters and storylines of the original series.

As season two comes to an end, we will take a look at whether the series lived up to that hype.

Now, This is The Story All About How

Fans were excited about the revision of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. They were intrigued by its promise to be a modern and dramatic take on the beloved 90s sitcom, exploring deeper themes and characters while still paying homage to the original.

While the original series followed the story of a young man named Will Smith, sent from his rough neighborhood in Philadelphia to live with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air, California, modern audiences craved more profound storytelling.

However, fans of the original series loved the show’s blend of comedy and heart and its ability to address serious issues while remaining accessible and entertaining.

How Will Smith Became the Prince of a Town Called Bel-Air

Fresh Prince was impactful at its time. It had a groundbreaking impact on television and popular culture, particularly regarding its representation of black families and characters on screen. At a time when there were very few black-led shows on TV, The Fresh Prince presented a complex and relatable portrayal of a black family that resonated with audiences across racial and cultural lines.

For example, the show’s character Carlton Banks, who was often seen as a foil to the more streetwise and rebellious Will, helped the show tackle race, class, and identity issues. Carlton’s preppy style, privileged background, and conservative views were presented as a product of his upbringing and social status, highlighting how race and class intersect in shaping identity.

The show also addressed issues of police brutality and racial profiling, as seen in the episode “Mistaken Identity,” in which a white police officer mistakenly arrested Will while driving a luxury car. The episode showed the realities of racial profiling and the fear and anger it can evoke while highlighting the importance of standing up for oneself and fighting for justice.

You’re Moving With Your Auntie and Uncle in Bel-Air

Given the original show’s popularity and cultural significance, fans were excited about the reboot titled Bel-Air. The new show, described as a “dramatic retelling,” would explore deeper themes and characters while still paying homage to the original. Fans were eager to see how the show would update the beloved characters and storylines for a modern audience and tackle critical social issues in a relevant and impactful way.

While the new show would retain some of the original’s key elements, such as the premise of a young man from a rough neighborhood sent to live with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air, it would also make significant changes and updates.

For example, Carlton Banks would be portrayed as a more troubled and conflicted character. In addition, the show would explore his struggles with mental health and addiction.

Nah, Forget It, Yo, Holmes to Bel Air

Since its release, Bel-Air has received mixed reviews from critics and fans. One point of bother with fans and critics is the show’s treatment of certain characters and storylines. Some fans have expressed disappointment with the changes made to the show’s beloved characters, particularly Carlton.

Others have criticized the show’s handling of specific plot points, such as the subplot involving Will’s father, which they feel is overly dramatic and forced. Fans felt the subplot with “Will’s father feels contrived and manipulative” and that the “show takes itself far too seriously.”

The negative thoughts are in the minority compared to all the love and positive critiques about the show.

To Sit on My Throne as The Prince of Bel-Air

Despite these criticisms, the new Bel Air show has also garnered an enormous amount of fans and followers. Many have praised the show’s strong performances, particularly by lead actor Jabari Banks, who portrays the new version of Will.

Others have applauded the show’s bold and ambitious storylines, which tackle sensitive and timely issues in a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant way. Critics have stated that the show’s ideas are “a real triumph, taking risks and tackling tough subject matter with intelligence and sensitivity.”

Additionally, many fans value the characters’ new versions, stating that the change is “a bold move, but one that ultimately pays off in the end.”

Jabari Banks, the NEW Prince of Bel-Air

Overall, the new Bel Air show on Peacock is a polarizing and divisive entry in television. While some viewers appreciate the show’s ambitious storytelling and willingness to take risks, others feel that it falls short of the original series and lacks the charm and humor that made it so beloved in the first place.

Ultimately, whether or not the show lives up to the original hype depends on how much the viewer is willing to let go of the trailblazing original and embrace the new Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

[VIA]

Eight-Part Series on Muhammad Ali Headed to Peacock, Led by Morgan Freeman & More

Muhammad Ali 1967

Muhammad Ali will be the subject of an eight-part event series that is headed to Peacock. According to Variety, the series is led by Regé-Jean Page, Morgan Freeman and Kevin Willmott.

The scripted drama series, Excellence: 8 Fights, is based on the biography, Ali: A Life, written by Jonathan Eig. Executive producers on the project include Page, Freeman, Willmott, Lori McCreary from Revelations Entertainment, and Emily Brown. Along with CBS Studios and UCP, Eig will work as a producer.

The show’s official synopsis reads:

Excellence: 8 Fights will chronicle eight distinct and defining moments in the iconic life of Muhammad Ali. Each episode will be framed by one fight from Ali’s life, but the essence of the episode, what it’s really about, is the internal fight – the drama outside the ring – where we will explore the struggle going on in the heart and mind of one of the most consequential and controversial figures of the 20th century.

The post Eight-Part Series on Muhammad Ali Headed to Peacock, Led by Morgan Freeman & More appeared first on The Source.

Chlöe Shares The Trailer For Her Hilarious-Looking Peacock Music Comedy, ‘Praise This’

While plenty of attention has been rightly heaped upon Halle Bailey for her role in the upcoming Little Mermaid remake lately, her sister Chlöe is also building her filmography — albeit, via some lower-profile releases. One of those releases is Praise This, a musical comedy coming to Peacock in April. Chlöe just shared the first trailer for the film on social media, and it looks like the perfect vehicle to show off her acting and singing chops at the same time.

According to Deadline, its studio, Universal Pictures, is apparently hoping for Pitch Perfect-esque franchise potential, and judging from the trailer, it certainly appears that the acapella comedy’s DNA is part of the genetic makeup of Praise This, along with a dash of Chlöe’s mentor Beyoncé’s own gospel-based musical comedy, Fighting Temptation.

Per Collider, Bailey will portray Sam, an aspiring singer who gets shipped off to Atlanta to live with her cousin Jess, played by Anjelika Washington. There, she joins Jess’s praise team as they prepare for a singing competition. The cast also includes comedian Druski and The Wire alum Tristan “Mack” Wilds. There’s also a cameo appearance by Quavo.

Praise This is coming to Peacock on April 7, 2023. You can watch the trailer above.