Entertainment

Tyler Perry Has No Motivation to Make Better Art — Andscape

Published

4 months ago

July 30, 2024

IAM

Tyler Perry did it again.

He released one other movie, Prime Video , starring Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict. The film was universally panned by critics, earning rare 0% on Rotten Tomatoes. And like lots of Perry’s projects, it plays on drained tropes, depicting abused black women and illogical plot twists. As at all times, Perry’s latest has reignited the controversy in regards to the value of his movies and where they fit on a scale that ranges from uplifting and funny to embarrassing for black people. These conversations have existed since Perry first donned a wig and called herself Madea. But the more interesting query is: What value does Tyler Perry see in his art, and what’s going to drive him to make it higher?

is a typical Tyler Perry production. It is a movie a few woman (Good) who’s abused by her husband (Hardrict), and her only salvation is a brand new man. The source of the trauma of the person who abuses her seems to be, in fact, his mother. The most striking moment of the film takes place in the primary scene, which takes place during a funeral and ends with the mother taking the body of her son out of the coffin. The scene, which became popular for being ridiculous, it’s outrageous, poorly acted, and doesn’t fit into the movie’s plot. And it’s indicative of the movie as an entire. It was filled with plot holes, lacked a story, and was generally incoherent. I discovered myself laughing greater than I felt an actual connection to the story and its characters. And that is been my experience with most of Perry’s movies, especially over the previous couple of years.

Since he burst onto the scene, Perry has made greater than 50 movies—many with poor scripts, shaky camerawork, and choppy production. Pressing play on a 2005 Tyler Perry DVD doesn’t provide a special quality than queuing up on a streaming platform today.

But that does not seem to be the rationale Perry makes movies. In the identical way Starbucks effectively acts as a bank that sells coffeePerry is a dynamic businessman who also makes movies. As the owner of Tyler Perry Studios, a multimillion-dollar Atlanta complex where every thing from Marvel Entertainment to his movies is filmed, Perry can also be an actual estate mogul. He’s also a motivational speaker who uses his story to uplift black people world wide. The movies are a part of the brand, but they’re one among the tenets of the Perry-verse he’s been constructing for a long time.

I first heard of Perry within the early 2000s, when bootleg recordings of his plays were going platinum in black homes across the South. Black Christian plays had at all times been popular, but Perry’s productions, especially those featuring his character Madea, were immediately distinguished by being as funny as they were dramatic. The plot of every play was secondary to the pleasure fans got from watching it and the religious messages they delivered at the tip. In this fashion, Perry built a faithful fan base—lots of whom remain loyal to him to today, watching his movies despite bad reviews or perceived shortcomings.

Because following Perry for thus long means buying into his journey as much as his work. And it’s hard to hear his story and never find it inspiring. A person who wrote his early work while living in his automotive and racked up massive debt to fund his plays has achieved success—and we’ve followed him along the way in which. And being a Perry fan also means hearing his story, told in his own words, which is a present in itself, because he’s a legitimate public speaker. Even as someone critical of his art, I’m still enchanted by Perry’s speeches.

Adding to Perry’s powerful story is the outpouring of affection he receives from his peers. His movies often give actors a second probability or just line their pockets after they’re in need. Taraji P. Henson credits Perry with being the primary director to pay her what she thought she was value.

“I asked for half a million,” she said. he told Variety in 2019.“I didn’t get paid like that until I was in my first Tyler Perry movie. He was the first person to break the norm that I got paid for movies.”

Hardrict It was saved say his salary was the very best he had received as an actor to that time. Perry also gave actors like Teyana Taylor, Lance Gross and Tessa Thompson their first leading roles. And while Idris Elba had already played Stringer Bell for 3 seasons in , this was Perry’s first time making him a number one man in a movie. Perry’s altruism toward black people in Hollywood has ensured that at any time when his name is mentioned by his strongest black stars, it’s mentioned with praise and flattering anecdotes about his character.

The real love that Perry’s peers and fans feel for him is a component of a rigorously curated ecosystem and lens through which his movies are judged. Sure, these movies don’t often give us a very good script or a deep plot, but they’re not judged solely on what we see on screen. They’re seen as extensions of Perry’s experience, and criticizing his movies is criticizing every thing he stands for. Pointing out plot holes then becomes something more: an attempt to take money out of the pockets of a person who uses that cash to uplift black people.

It doesn’t matter that Perry also used his considerable wealth and influence in battles with writers and writers’ unions. He reportedly fired 4 writers for in 2008. Apparently also wouldn’t sign contracts with the Writers Guild of Americaselecting as a substitute to work with non-union talent. The Actors’ Union also boycotted his 2015 play, , because he didn’t sign with them either. His ability to write and direct his own projects is taken into account a testament to his work ethic, but it surely also allows him to sidestep working with unions that fight for fair pay and advantages for his or her members.

Then there’s the difficulty of the movies — and not only the standard of their stories. Beyond their plot flaws, Perry’s movies often perpetuate colorism, misogyny, moralizing, and stereotypes about blackness, gender, and who deserves retribution. These are real and valid critiques of Perry’s work. And they deserve to be heard.

But a part of Perry’s brand positioning is knowing that there’s a limit to the standard of his movies. No one watches them expecting an Oscar-winning film or anything close to one. Even his fans will let you know that his best movies are good “for Tyler Perry.” You see, his universe has its own unique rating system. And if Rotten Tomatoes gives a movie a 0%, then the film has sold itself, because that’s a good larger incentive for fans to defend his work or for critics to tune in to see how bad the film will be. That level of engagement is music to any streamer’s ears, because all they need is eyes on their product, which Perry delivers.

Tyler Perry is just too powerful at this point for anyone to make him do something he doesn’t want to do. And he doesn’t seem to want to make higher art. He can repeat the identical tropes to various degrees of weirdness and protect himself together with his legacy and good deeds. He could make movies which are poorly reviewed because people will still watch them. He can hide his union issues as a charity for essentially the most progressive actors he hires. And he can proceed to be a robust, self-sufficient force in Hollywood, with no way of slowing down.

That’s Tyler Perry’s experience. And it’s something to remember the subsequent time a movie starts with something as ridiculous as a family pulling a dead man out of a coffin.

David Dennis Jr. is a senior author at Andscape and the writer of the award-winning book The Movement Made Us: A Father, a Son, and the Legacy of a Freedom Ride. David is a graduate of Davidson College.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com

Entertainment

Kendrick Lamar Releases Surprise Album ‘GNX’; group chats are going crazy

Published

1 hour ago

November 22, 2024

IAM

Kendrick Lamar, Kendrick Lamar GNX, GNX, GNX album, K-Dot, K-Dot GNX, theGrio.com

There are few things more exciting than receiving an infinite barrage of text messages at the very same time in numerous group chats. This normally implies that something vital has happened in popular culture. Well, the exact same thing happened about noon on November 22, within the yr of our Lord two thousand and twenty-four. Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, higher often called Kendrick Lamar, released the album “GNX”, nod towards Buick Grand National Regal GNXa rare muscle automobile released in 1987 – which also happens to be the yr Kendrick was born.

“GNX” is coming to the tip of what has been a banner yr for Kendrick Lamar. From epic diss records geared toward Drake, to creating the largest song of his profession (and a Drake diss track) on “Not Like Us”, to the “Pop Out” concert streaming live to tell the tale Amazon Prime, Kendrick won this yr. He even received seven Grammy nominations, mostly for “Not Like Us.” And this victory will proceed in the brand new yr. In September, it was announced that Kendrick would stay Super Bowl 2025 headliner will happen in New Orleans. This announcement sparked some controversy and comments from several New Orleans legends similar to Juvenile and most notably Lil Wayne, who felt disrespected; Kendrick immediately refers to this topic within the opening song of the album (all stylized in lower case), “wacced out murals”.

The thing is, Kendrick didn’t sleep for many of 2024. And then, while the remaining of us were minding our own business, listening to other albums that had just dropped, like Ice Cube’s “Man Down,” I began receiving text after text… and I knew that would only mean that something vital happened.

At this point in my life (and possibly even yours), Kendrick Lamar releases are a drop-everything-and-listen event. I immediately went to the streaming service, launched “GNX” and pressed “Play”.

I need to admit that the primary time I heard the album I used to be a bit confused. Kendrick has probably never been more popular or famous; if there was ever a time to drag a Kanye West and release his own version of “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” – an album largely produced as Kanye’s best and most representative of Kanye’s greatness – now could be the time. “GNX” has a far more modern West Coast vibe and is certainly more for his die-hard fans than anyone who just began gaining attention due to his beef with Drake. Maybe that was the purpose; possibly not.

Either way, I can imagine that folks whose favorite lines are “OV-Ho” won’t be immediately thrilled. I wasn’t immediately blown away (though very amused by how sensitive Kendrick is to what people say about him on social media, well, everyone), but as is all the time the case with Kendrick albums, repeated listens are likely to correct any immediate monotony that I even have about his projects. For example, now that I’ve listened to it just a few times, I can not wait to listen to black college bands playing “tv off” style, which seems like a cousin of “Not Like Us.” The Shoot, Bayou Classic, which also takes place yearly in New Orleans on Thanksgiving Day, stands out as the first time we hear a band playing “TV off.”

Since the album didn’t come out long enough to be reviewed, group chats and social media were abuzz with immediate reactions. This is the a part of music releases I really like, where everyone seems to be listening to the identical thing, offering premature takes that will not even delay the following day. I’m not different; I’m sure I’ll say something about this album that can sound silly by Monday. Shoot, I can have already done it. But that is what happens when great artists release music. We spend time with others after which we refer to them, analyze them, criticize them, praise them, destroy them and let all our prejudices fly free. Love it.

It’s value noting that certainly one of Drake’s diss tracks that did not appear during last summer’s fracas was titled “The Heart Part 6,” and was an apparent try to usurp Kendrick’s pre-album practice of removing a non-album song titled “The Heart.” Well, Kendrick has a song on his recent album called, you guessed it, “The Heart, Pt. 6,” which I feel will probably be released soon Drake. Good job, Kenny.

Argue.

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com

Entertainment

New music this week: Tyla, Lola Brooke, Coco Jones and more – Essence

Published

1 hour ago

November 22, 2024

Happy Friday, people! Whether you are drinking a warm beverage or preparing for a fun-filled weekend, this week’s latest music releases set the tone. From sensual R&B melodies to powerful hip-hop anthems, these songs have something for everybody.

Coco Jones leads the pack along with her seasonal album, and Tyla offers a heartfelt change of tone with “Tears.” Miguel’s smooth “Always Time” and Jorja Smith’s tender “Stay Another Day” showcase R&B at its finest, while Lola Brooke and Killer Mike turn up the warmth on “Go To Yo Head” and “Warryn’s Groove,” respectively. Today’s list also includes music from Eric Bellinger, Coi Leray, Blxst and more.

Below you possibly can read our list of latest products.

Coco Jones – “Coco by the Fireplace”

Coco Jones releases a warm, soulful album that evokes the comfy atmosphere of a night by the fireplace, showcasing her wealthy vocals and emotional storytelling. Listen to this HERE.

This week's best new music: Tyla, Lola Brooke, Coco Jones and more

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Tyla – “Tears”

In collaboration with COKE, South African sensation Tyla delivers “Tears,” a heartfelt ballad that highlights her vocal skills and emotional depth, marking a departure from her usual upbeat style. Check it out HERE.

Lola Brooke – “Go to Your Head”

Lola Brooke’s “Go To Yo Head” is an assertive anthem with strong beats and confident lyrics, solidifying her presence within the hip-hop scene. Check it out HERE.

Miguel – “It’s Always Time”

Miguel returns with “Always Time”, combining his signature smooth vocals with a up to date R&B beat, exploring themes of affection and patience. Hear this HERE.

Lila Iké ft. Joey Bada$$ – “Fry the Plantain”

Lila Iké teams up with Joey Bada$$ on “Fry Plantain,” fusing reggae beats with hip-hop elements for a must-see track. Check it out HERE.

Jorja Smith – “Stay One More Day”

Jorja Smith delivers “Stay Another Day,” a soulful performance that captures the longing and warmth of a brand new season. Listen to this HERE.

Eric Bellinger ft. Oxlade – “Shooting Star”

Fresh off the discharge of his latest one albumEric Bellinger teams up with Oxlade on “Shooting Star,” a seamless collaboration that blends R&B with Afrobeat influences to create a mesmerizing melody. Hear this HERE.

Killer Mike ft. Ty Dolla $ign – “Warryn’s Groove”

In the digital version of Killer Mike Songs for sinners and saintsthe rapper collaborates with Ty Dolla $ign on the song “Warryn’s Groove.” Listen to the song HERE.

Coi Leray – “The heart doesn’t lie”

“Heart Don’t Lie” by Coi Leray is a catchy track that mixes pop sensibilities with honest lyrics about love and vulnerability. Stream HERE.

Amber Mark – “Wait So Yeah”

Amber Mark’s “Wait So Yeah” combines R&B with electronic elements, highlighting her versatility and dynamic sound. Check it out HERE.

Blxst, K CAMP and DeJ Loaf – “Make Room”

Today, singer Blxst collaborates with K CAMP and DeJ Loaf on “Make Room.” Listen to the brand new song HERE.

Camper ft. Tone Stith – “Waiting On You”

Camper and Tone Stith join forces on a brand new track that showcases their vocal chemistry and songwriting skills. Listen to this HERE.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com

Entertainment

Serena Williams is cutting short divorce talks for a second time after the couple reunited and put months of rumors to rest

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

IAM

Serena Williams and her husband Alexis Ohanian are still doing well despite months of unconfirmed divorce rumors.

On November 17, Williams and the Reddit co-founder took a walk down memory lane and tested one another by asking questions on themselves and their family in a recent promotional ad. The couple ate a few of their favorite meals and meanwhile checked their glucose levels using Hello Lingo, a glucose monitoring device.

Nearly five minutes into the recording, Williams tested her husband’s memory by asking, “Who said I love you first?”

Ohanian, who shares two daughters, Olimpia and Adira, with the tennis legend, responds quickly by saying, “Mmm,” before writing his answer on the board.

Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian recall who said “I love you” first amid divorce rumors. (Photo: Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)

“It’s like ‘The Newlywed Game,'” Williams said, writing down her answer, referring to the mid-Nineteen Sixties show “The Newlywed Game,” which tested couples who had been married for lower than two years to see if how much they learn about their relationship. amplifier.

Both Williams and Ohanian turn the board over to reveal their answers and, quite shockingly, they received two different answers. Ohanian wrote that Williams said it first, but Williams claims it was Ohanian.

“Come now. Are you going to lie about this? he declared to Williams, who responded with a laugh: “I said I would be honest.”

“That’s not an honest answer,” Ohanian continued. “I still keep in mind that phone call. Oh, you realize I felt the same, but you certainly said it first.

Williams joked: “My glucose levels were high. I ate some ice cream, my glucose level was too high. Then I tell this guy and I feel like saying things I would not normally say. The moment ended with Williams replaying how she told Ohanian those three special words.

Of course, there was no shortage of reactions from fans who showed their love for the couple and how well they interact of their normal element.

One YouTube commenter he wrote“It’s great to see Serena and Alexis in this normal environment, they are so lovely and have great charisma. I love them even more now and I feel great chemistry between them.”

Someone else said: “I liked this part. They seem to really like each other.”

However, as rumors swirled about problems of their marriage, one fan was confused by the video shared on Instagram.

“I thought I read that they got divorced?” he wrote one person in Williams’ comment section.

Someone else also addressed the rumors, writing: “Where are the haters who said divorce was imminent? Sometimes people will be crazy. Seriously, how are you going to even start assuming things like that about people you have never met?

We got married here 7 years ago. Now we will take these two out for donuts. Happy anniversary 🎉 Thank you for giving me two of the best people we’ve got ever met. You are a tremendous mom. I’m very glad to have met you @serenawilliams @olympiaohanian @adiraohanian pic.twitter.com/5ntPujrYDh

— Alexis Ohanian 🇦🇲 (@alexisohanian) November 17, 2024

This summer, fans began speculating that Williams and her seven-year marriage to Ohanian were in trouble after they noticed she hadn’t posted from him on her social media pages in some time.

Moreover, Ohanian was noticeably absent from the June premiere of the documentary “In the Arena: Serena Williams” and was also absent from her side at the Met Gala in May.

But they got back together this summer after they attended the Paris Olympics with their daughter Olympia in July.

Among the many viral moments spent with the Ohanian family, she organizes: umbrella for his wife and the European commentator – who didn’t realize he was her husband – and called Ohanian Serena’s “umbrella holder”.

The tech guru reacted to the moment hilariously by snapping a photo of himself holding an umbrella over himself and his daughter.

Ohanian joked, “I am also a personal Olympia umbrella owner. Sidebar: You all set the bar too low for me and celebrity daddies only get flowers for *admitting* they have kids.”

The proud dad is probably also Adira’s personal umbrella holder.