Lauren London’s 7 Best Films

Embarking on a journey through the chapters of Lauren London’s movie career, one cannot help but be captivated by the sheer range of characters she’s brought to life. From her breakout role that etched her into the cultural lexicon to the more mature performances that showcased her growth as an artist, London has crafted a filmography that resonates with authenticity.

Her on-screen portrayals are imbued with an emotional gravity that pulls audiences into the narrative, making each character’s joy and pain palpably felt. As we spotlight seven standout performances, we not only celebrate London’s craft but also the indelible mark she leaves on every story told. Here’s an ode to the roles that have defined London’s career thus far.

ATL (2006)

Lauren London’s debut as New-New in ATL balances youthful spontaneity with a poignant complexity. It offered a multi-dimensional glimpse into Atlanta’s skate culture through the lens of her character’s hidden depths. Her interplay with co-star Tip “T.I.” Harris radiates authenticity, anchoring the film’s romantic thread and elevating the story’s exploration of identity and dreams within the rich tapestry of Southern adolescence. London’s nuanced performance not only captures the spirit of her character but also cements her place as a memorable figure in the coming-of-age cinematic landscape.

I Love You, Beth Cooper (2009)

In I Love You, Beth Cooper, Lauren London transitions from the urban tapestry of ATL to the halls of high school comedy. As Cammy, the quintessential best friend, London delivers a performance that is both humorous and grounded. Though the film navigates a sea of teen comedy tropes, it’s her character’s spark and unwavering loyalty that stand out. London brings a refreshing verve to the role. She offered moments of genuine friendship that cut through the screenplay’s predictability. Her presence on screen, albeit in a supporting role, showcases her adaptability and range. It marked her as an actress capable of adding depth to even the most lighthearted fare.

Madea’s Big Happy Family (2011)

London’s role in Madea’s Big Happy Family punctuates this dramedy with a resonance that extends beyond the expected Madea humor. Amid Tyler Perry’s signature blend of laughter and life lessons, London plays Renee. She’s a character whose personal tribulations weave into the broader tapestry of familial complexities. Her performance encapsulates a young woman grappling with the crossroads of personal desire and family duty.

Further, London’s interaction with the boisterous Madea allows for moments of genuine emotion to shine through the hilarity. It provided a grounded presence in an otherwise over-the-top ensemble. Her contribution to Madea’s Big Happy Family stands out as a testament to her versatility.

This Christmas (2007)

In the holiday film This Christmas, Lauren steps into the role of Melanie ‘Mel’ Whitfield. She brought a touch of grounded realism to the spirited Whitfield family festivities. Her character navigates the complexities of young love and family dynamics, encapsulating the bittersweet tang of coming-of-age amidst holiday cheer. With her nuanced performance, London adds depth to the ensemble cast. She delivered a portrayal that captures the intricacies of familial bonds and the sometimes painful process of growing up and finding one’s place at the family table. Her interactions, particularly with on-screen love interest Chris Brown, exude a palpable chemistry that enriches the film’s tapestry of relationships.

Without Remorse (2021)

In Without Remorse, London takes on a poignant role that leaves a lasting impact on the film’s narrative. It also drives the emotional journey of its lead character, John Clark, played by Michael B. Jordan. London’s character, Pam Clark, is the emotional linchpin for Jordan’s vengeful crusade. Her presence resonating throughout the story even in her absence.

Her performance, brimming with warmth and a profound sense of connection, catalyzes the film’s exploration of loss, justice, and the haunting effects of grief. London delivers her role with a heart-rending authenticity that underscores the film’s darker themes and fuels the protagonist’s depth of motivation. Through Without Remorse, London showcases her skill in crafting a memorable character whose influence permeates the entire film, embodying the narrative’s emotional core with grace and intensity.

The Perfect Match (2016)

In The Perfect Match, Lauren London is submerged in the swirling world of romantic comedies, a genre that requires a deft touch to balance the light-hearted with the poignant. Portraying Ginger, a woman entangled in the film’s tapestry of love and relationships, she offers a refreshing take on the best friend archetype. Her character is a catalyst for humor and insight, propelling the narrative forward with spirited dialogue and actions that are a vital counterbalance to the protagonist’s journey. Ginger’s dynamic presence in the ensemble allows London to showcase a blend of comedic timing and emotional depth.

You People (2023)

You People, a film that weaves comedy and societal commentary into its narrative, showcases Lauren London’s versatility as an actress. Her character navigates the nuances of interracial relationships, confronting both the humorous and complex facets of cultural fusion. London’s performance is marked by her deft ability to balance the light-hearted banter with a sincere portrayal of someone grappling with identity and societal expectations. Her presence on screen is both vibrant and poignant, ensuring her character’s perspective is conveyed with both fun and depth, contributing to the film’s broader discourse on finding common ground amidst diversity.

[via]

The post Lauren London’s 7 Best Films appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Jonah Hill Chooses His Top Five Rappers In A Deleted ‘You People’ Scene And Gets Flak For His Eminem Pick

Jonah Hill and Eddie Murphy team up for You People, but in a scene that didn’t make the film’s final cut, more legends find their way into the movie. Specifically, a number of hip-hop icons, when Hill’s character makes his pick for the top five rappers ever and gets roasted for including Eminem.

In the clip, Ezra (Hill’s character) and Mo (played by Sam Jay) are hosting an episode of their The Mo & E-Z Show podcast when the topic of their top five rappers comes up. Ezra makes his picks: “1. Jay-Z, 2. Biggie, 3. 2Pac, 4. Nas, and 5. Eminem.”

Mo responds, “That’s in order? — Eminem though?” Ezra replies, “Why do I have to keep defending Shady? I mean, his sole purpose is to be on other people’s tracks and murder them. I mean, ‘Renegade?’ ‘Dead Wrong,’” he says in reference to tracks by Jay-Z and The Notorious B.I.G.

Mo then says, “Dog, he’s like, I don’t know the Larry Bird of rap, you know what I mean? He’s not great: He’s just great because he’s a white man in a Black man’s game.” Ezra retorts, “That is so stupid. That might be the dumbest sh*t you’ve ever said to me.”

Check out the clip above.

Jonah Hill Lists Top 5 Rappers In Unused Scene From “You People”

You People has been one of the most talked about movies to come out so far this year. The movie stars Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Eddie Murphy, Nia Long and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. In the movie, Hill’s character and London’s character get married. But, they must deal with the real-life consequences of putting together an interracial marriage. Because of this, a bit of controversy has emerged since the film’s release on Jan. 27. Critics have questioned the amount of chemistry Hill and Lauren’s characters display on screen. These conversations are fueled by the rumor that their kiss at the end of the movie was actually CGI-manufactured instead of legitimate.

Nevertheless, the movie’s earnings have been terrific, and continued coverage surrounding it has led to more discoveries. In a recently surfaced bonus clip from the movie, Hill’s character Ezra hosts a show on Complex, alongside his friend Mo portrayed by Sam Jay. In the clip, the duo discusses their top 5 rappers ever, and Mo questions Ezra’s group of favorite MCs.

Jonah Hill’s Top 5

For his “deal or alive” top 5, Ezra names Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, Nas and Eminem, in that order. When asked to elaborate on his Eminem choice by Mo, Ezra does not back down. “Why do I have to keep defending Shady? I mean, his sole purpose is to be on other people’s tracks and murder them. I mean, ‘Renegade’? ‘Dead Wrong’?” To which Mo rebuttals, calling him the Larry Bird of Rap. “He’s not great. He’s just great because he’s a white man in a black man’s game,” she says. Ezra fires back, “That is so stupid. That might be the dumbest sh*t you’ve ever said to me.”

It’s not clear whether or not this is Ezra’s opinion or Jonah’s, though. Jonah has a long history of rap fandom. As a matter of fact, he put out a top 5 favorite rappers list in 2018, but none of the MCs he mentioned back then are listed by Ezra. His list in 2015 included A Tribe Called Quest, Big L, Gang Starr, Mobb Deep and Kendrick Lamar. Additionally, Jonah has helped direct a few music videos for rappers. Videos for “Ain’t It Funny” by Danny Brown and “Wake Up” by Travis Scott were both aided by Hill’s directorial skills. Being the huge hip-hop fan he is, it is not surprising he would use his latest movie to rattle off some of his favorite rappers. But, it’s still uncertain whether or not the You People list is the one he abides by in his real life.

Lauren London Jonah Hill’s “You People” Kiss Was CGI, Says Andrew Schultz

The hype surrounding You People has dissipated, but Andrew Schultz reignited conversations about the film. The comedy stars Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Eddie Murphy, and Nia Long, and audiences have well-received the star-studded flick. Schultz also makes an appearance in the movie as Hill’s character’s cousin. According to him, post-production added a CGI kiss.

At the conclusion of the film, Hill and London are at the altar seal their romance with a kiss. Schultz was there when the scene was being filmed, and he claims the smooch never happened. He explained things while on the Brilliant Idiots podcast that he co-hosts with Charlamagne Tha God. “There’s a hilarious thing, I don’t even know if I should share this sh*t, but the final scene, they don’t even kiss,” he said.

Read More: Lauren London Laughs About Awkward Way She Met Jonah Hill

“It’s CGI. Swear to god,” he added. “I’m there, I’m watching the wedding, and I see them go in for the kiss, and their faces stop like this far. And I’m like, ‘I wonder how they’re going to play that in the movie. Oh, they’re probably just gonna cut right there.’ But the movie, you can see their faces come close, and then you can see their faces morph a little bit into a fake kiss.”

There hasn’t been confirmation from Barris or the actors about the allegations. When the trailer for You People first surfaced, production came under social media fire from people who questioned if Hill and London would ever be together in real life. Fans weren’t sure they would make a convincing couple on screen when many couldn’t see them as a match. Those discussions have reignited since Schultz’s revelation.

Read More: Lauren London Shares How She Found “Courage” To Act Again After Nipsey’s Death

Additionally, the public has also speculated about why a CGI kiss would be necessary. Some brought up the passing of Nipsey Hussle and London possibly not wanting to cross any lines with her co-star. However, others pointed out that she did have romantic scenes with Michael B. Jordan in their 2021 film, Without Remorse.

Comedian Andrew Schulz Says That Lauren London And Jonah Hill Kiss In ‘You People’ Was Faked

Netflix's You People Opens with 2.8 Million Household Viewers

Comedian Andrew Schulz recently revealed on his Brilliant Idiots podcast that the final kiss between Lauren London and Jonah Hill in You People was made using computer-generated imagery.

“There’s a hilarious thing, I don’t even know if I should share this shit, but the final scene, they don’t even kiss. It’s CGI. Swear to god, son,” Schulz said.

He continued, “I’m there, I’m watching the wedding, and I see them go in for the kiss, and their faces stop like this far. And I’m like, ‘I wonder how they’re going to play that in the movie. Oh, they’re probably just gonna cut right there.’ But the movie, you can see their faces come close, and then you can see their faces morph a little bit into a fake kiss.” 

Since the conversation started about Lauren and Jonah not actually kissing despite being in a romcom, many have taken to the internet to share their thoughts.

The post Comedian Andrew Schulz Says That Lauren London And Jonah Hill Kiss In ‘You People’ Was Faked appeared first on The Source.

Nia Long Explains Comments On “Black Movies”

Nia Long has explained her recent comments on not liking the term “Black movies.” She elaborated on the opinion during an appearance on The Daily Show with guest host Wanda Sykes.

“What I mean by that is, if we continue to practice this idea of separatism, we continue to divide,” Long said. “And I will always and forever hold my fist up because I understand the experience. But I also believe the more we understand about one another, and the more accepting we are of one another, this thing called art should be representative of all of us.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 12: Nia Long attends the Stage 6 and Screen Gems world premiere of “Missing” at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles on January 12, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

Long had originally told Buzzfeed that the idea of “Black movies” only serves to “hold us back.”

“I think terms like that hold us back,” Long said. “And I have to catch myself sometimes too, because I’m very proud of who I am.”

“When I use the word ‘Black,’ I don’t use it as a way to separate ourselves from anyone,” Long told the outlet. “I use it as a way to put an exclamation point behind our greatness, because I don’t think that it’s always been celebrated and recognized.”

She continued: “I’m here to represent who we are. And if you want to come along for the ride, everyone’s welcome!”

Nia Long’s latest film, You People, was released on Netflix on Friday. She stars alongside Eddie Murphy, Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and more. The story follows a young couple who deal with cultural clashes and generational divides.

Long recently revealed that she wants to work with Murphy on another rom-com at some point in the future.

Check out Nia Long’s comments on The Daily Show below.

[Via]

Netflix’s You People Opens with 2.8 Million Household Viewers

Netflix's You People Opens with 2.8 Million Household Viewers

You People is a Netflix smash. The new movie starring Eddie Murphy, Jonah Hill, Lauren London, and Nia Long was watched by 2.8 million households from Friday, Jan. 27 to Sunday, Jan. 29.

The movie is now the second biggest movie premier of the past six months for the streaming service.

The approximately 3 million households attraction for You People was second only to The Gray Man, which launched in summer 2022. According to Samba TV, You People even outperformed the current Oscar candidate Glass Onion in its opening weekend.

Philadelphia, PA over-indexed the most (+60%) of the top 25 largest DMAs, followed by Atlanta, GA (+35%) and Detroit, MI (+20%). You People outperformed Gen Z (A20-24) and millennial (A25-34) households by 8% and 3%, respectively. It was significantly over-indexed with Black households (59%), and somewhat with Hispanic households (2%).

“Netflix’s latest star-packed rom-com ‘You People’ struck gold with audiences this weekend, blowing past the opening audience numbers of ‘Glass Onion’ to become the second biggest movie premiere for the streamer in the past six months in initial two-day viewership. Led by legendary comedian Eddie Murphy, ‘You People’ drew nearly 3 million households in its first weekend on Netflix, the most viewers for any recent Netflix original movie since this summer’s ‘The Gray Man.’ 

“Helmed by Black-ish creator Kenya Barris, the movie particularly resonated with Black households, who were overwhelmingly more likely to watch the movie than the national average – 59% more likely in fact, with The City of Brotherly Love, Atlanta, and Detroit all significantly over-indexing the national average viewership by strong double digits. Younger audiences were also drawn into the rom-com, including Gen Z and millennial households who also over-indexed in viewership.

“Recognizing the cross generational and diverse appeal of Eddie Murphy, Netflix leaned in and heavily-promoted the movie with prime placements during the Eagles vs. 49ers football game which no doubt helped lift overall discovery and drive tune in this weekend.”

– Dallas Lawrence, SVP at Samba TV

The post Netflix’s You People Opens with 2.8 Million Household Viewers appeared first on The Source.

Lauren London Shares How She Found “Courage” To Act Again After Nipsey’s Death

You People has been the talk of pop culture as the Kenya Barris film eased its way to Netflix, and the film’s star, Lauren London, has been hopping from one outlet to the next to help promote it. The actress took some deserved time away from the spotlight following the death of Nipsey Hussle. She reflected on her return to the big screen while on The Drew Barrymore Show.

“I’m very apprehensive with just working right now, just grieving still and just, you know, building a new life,” said London. “So, I’m very intentional on who I work with, and Kenya just created a really safe space. And so did Jonah [Hill].”

Read More: Lauren London Recalls Diddy Encouraging Her In Wake Of Nipsey Hussle’s Death

In March 2019, Nipsey was outside his Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles when he was shot and killed by Eric Holder. The two men were associates, and it’s reported that Nipsey said something that Holder took as an offense.

Last year, Holder was found guilty of Hussle’s murder and is currently awaiting sentencing. Since his death, London has focused on maintaining his legacy and took a step back from pursuing her career.

The actress also revealed that her eldest son, Kameron Carter, whom she shares with Lil Wayne, encouraged her to get back to work.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 10: Lauren London and Nipsey Hussle attend the 61st Annual Grammy Awards at Staples Center on February 10, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
Read More: Lauren London Explains Wanting To Leave L.A. In Wake Of Nipsey Hussle’s Death

Barrymore wanted to know how London found the courage to return to acting.

“Every day is different. So, some days you don’t want to. You just want to lay there,” she answered. “My big reason is my children because they do deserve a really happy mom, and they deserve joy, and they deserve a house that has music playing and incense going and light coming in the windows. They deserve that.”

“You know, when you lose someone, they’re on the other side wanting you to continue life, as well,” London further stated. “So, I just always think about what I know Nip would want me to do and what I know my children deserve. And what I deserve, too!”

[via]

Lauren London Laughs About Awkward Way She Met Jonah Hill

She’s been in the industry for some time, but Lauren London made her first appearance on a late-night talk show this week. The actress is returning to the silver screen in full force as one of the many stars of You People. The top-billing cast rounds out with Eddie Murphy, Nia Long, and Jonah Hill, and while on The Tonight Show, she revealed how she first met one of her co-stars.

Weeks before filming You People, London said she was trying to drive into a valet parking area, but there was a large van in the way. She was complaining to herself about the inconvenience and honking her horn, only to see that the vehicle belonged to Hill.

Read More: Lauren London Reveals “Forever Stronger” Puma Collection: “[It] Has Been My Mantra”

However, the brief exchange didn’t sour either actor, as they have gone on to become good friends.

“Jonah is really my homeboy in real life,” she said. “I love me some Jonah Hill.”

The press run for You People is in full effect, but Hill has been noticeably absent from red carpets and interviews. Last year, he revealed that after working on his mental health documentary Stutz, he would be taking a bit of a break from the spotlight.

“Through this journey of self-discovery within the film, I have come to the understanding that I have spent nearly 20 years experiencing anxiety attacks,” he wrote in an open letter at the time. “Which are exacerbated by media appearances and public-facing events.”

Read More: Nia Long & Yung Miami Show Love At “You People” Premiere

He added, “You won’t see me out there promoting this film, or any of my upcoming films, while I take this important step to protect myself. If I made myself sicker by going out there and promoting it, I wouldn’t be acting true to myself or to the film.”

It is a choice that London profoundly respects. She informed Variety she would support whatever decision Hill made for himself and his health.

“Life is tough for all of us,” London told the outlet earlier this month. “For us to pretend that we’re stronger than others and we can handle more, that’s unfair. I hold space for Jonah Hill. That’s my homeboy. I love him, and whatever he needs to do for his soul, I am there for it.”

[via][via]

Nia Long Says She’s “Single AF” Following Omarion Dating Rumors

Nia Long spoke out shortly after she was spotted with Omarion at the premiere of her new movie, You People.

Netflix debuted Kenya Barris’ new movie, You People, starring Nia Long, Jonah Hill, and Eddie Murphy during an exclusive event in Los Angeles. As the stars strutted across the red carpet, Nia Long and Omarion crossed paths, embraced one another, and took a picture together.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 17: Nia Long and Omarion attend the Los Angeles premiere of Netflix’s “You People” at Regency Village Theatre on January 17, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/WireImage)

Afterward, Nia Long walks away but she holds onto Omarion’s hand before pulling him in. However, it was Omarion’s smile afterward that left many under the impression that they might be romantically linked. Or, at least, the singer was ready to shoot his shot.

There’s nothing else that indicates they’re dating besides the short video. However, Twitter wasted little time reacting to the short clip Omarion tweeted.

Though many rooted for Omarion, Long made it clear that she’s single.

“Everybody simmer down,” she wrote before making it evidently clear that she’s still on the market. “I’m single AF.”

Long and Ime Udoka announced their split at the beginning of December following his suspension from the Celtics.

During a September press conference, the Celtics announced they suspended Udoka for violating team policies. Later on, reports emerged that he carried out an intimate relationship with a female staffer.

HOLLYWOOD, CA – NOVEMBER 05: Actress Nia Long attends the premiere of “The Best Man Holiday” at TCL Chinese Theatre on November 5, 2013 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)

“I think the most heartbreaking thing about all of this was seeing my son’s face when the Boston Celtics organization decided to make a very private situation public,” Long explained.

However, a rep for the couple confirmed that they “remain fully committed to co-parenting their son [Kez],” who they welcomed together in 2011.