In “Barbie,” a triumphant achievement from writer/director/executive producer Greta Gerwig, the film not only broke opening weekend records for 2023, but also shattered the first weekend record for a film directed by a woman, a truly remarkable feat deserving of recognition. Set in the matriarchal society of Barbieland, Barbie and […]
Levy Lee Simon: The Power of Art and Activism in Tackling Race and Racism
I recently attended the final performance of Levy Lee Simon’s Odyssey Race & Racism at the Hollywood Fringe Festival 2023. Levy Lee held the audience in his grip with his journey from a small child to where he is today. This one-person play unraveled a web of experiences leading to a landmine […]
Odyssey, Race & Racism: A Gripping Tapestry of Triumph and Transformation
“Odyssey, Race & Racism is an immersive theatrical experience that defies categorization. It is an anthem of triumph, an exploration of the human condition, and a catalyst for change. Levy Lee Simon’s artistry and storytelling prowess have delivered an unforgettable masterpiece—a tapestry woven with threads of triumph and transformation.” – Kaylene […]
Book Review | Finding My Second Wind: Running Through Difficult Pain, Finishing Strong with Warrior Faith by Erin Leopold
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) Finding My Second Wind by Erin Leopold is a compelling memoir that delves into the author’s arduous journey of overcoming pain and discovering unwavering faith. As I immersed myself in Leopold’s captivating narrative, I found myself both inspired and deeply moved by her remarkable resilience. In this […]
ISABELLA ROSSELLINI: Her Fall from Grace Only to Rise Renewed
Wishing Isabella Rossellini a happy birthday at 71 on June 18, 2023 . . . This article was published in AGENDA Issue 5 (May/June 2018). This is the first time it is published online. (Download the pdf of the article.) From a Golden Globe, Emmy nominations, and an Independent Spirit Award […]
LARRY DUNN: The Man with the Sound, from Earth Wind & Fire to Larry Dunn Orchestra
“I joined Earth Wind & Fire at 18 and I actually met Maurice and Verdine when I was 15. Philip and I were playing together and Hilliard Wilson, who’s still the bass player for me today after 40-something years… (He whispers this comically). People used to tell me, ‘You were […]
The Musical Duel of Justice: Chevalier Strikes a Resonant Chord in Captivating Audiences
The movie Chevalier opens with an irresistible showdown sequence, set in a Paris theater in the second half of the 18th century. The scene features a young violinist named Joseph Prowen, who leads an orchestra with infectious enthusiasm. Bologne Handsome, well-dressed, well-mannered and Black, Bologne is also a violinist, and […]
The Family Roars On: A Spectacular Ride in “Fast X”
Fast X, also known as Fast & Furious 10, is an American action film released in 2023. It is directed by Louis Leterrier and features a screenplay written by Dan Mazeau and Justin Lin. The story was co-written by Justin Lin, Zach Dean, and Dan Mazeau. Serving as a sequel […]
Web of Disappointment: Unraveling Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) left me utterly underwhelmed, feeling it was desperately in need of some serious editing. Brace yourself for an overdose of self-indulgence. The acting? As bland as unseasoned mashed potatoes. And don’t get me started on the so-called “visually stunning” aspect. Nope, it didn’t even come […]
“Hypnotic”: The Title Tells All, but Seeing Is Not Believing
Determined to locate his missing daughter, Detective Danny Rourke (portrayed by Ben Affleck) descends into a surreal world, investigating a string of crimes that bend the very fabric of reality. Produced by Solstice Studios, Ingenious Media, Studio 8, and Double R Productions, Hypnotic is a mind-bending detective movie with a twist […]