Prepare for an emotionally charged episode of “Genius: MLK/X” Season 4, Episode 8 titled “Can You Imagine,” airing on National Geographic at 10:08 Pm on Thursday, February 22, 2024. In this poignant installment, viewers will witness the culmination of the remarkable lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
As tensions within the Nation of Islam (Noi) reach a boiling point, Malcolm X finds himself in hot water after daring to criticize the organization. Meanwhile, Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to his political beliefs leads him to make the ultimate sacrifice for the civil rights movement.
Tragically, both leaders meet untimely ends as they are assassinated, but their legacies live on, continuing to inspire generations to come. Join National Geographic as they pay tribute to the enduring impact of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, two extraordinary individuals who fought tirelessly for justice and equality.
Don’t miss “Genius: MLK/X: Can You Imagine,...
As tensions within the Nation of Islam (Noi) reach a boiling point, Malcolm X finds himself in hot water after daring to criticize the organization. Meanwhile, Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to his political beliefs leads him to make the ultimate sacrifice for the civil rights movement.
Tragically, both leaders meet untimely ends as they are assassinated, but their legacies live on, continuing to inspire generations to come. Join National Geographic as they pay tribute to the enduring impact of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, two extraordinary individuals who fought tirelessly for justice and equality.
Don’t miss “Genius: MLK/X: Can You Imagine,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Prepare to be captivated by a pivotal episode of “Genius: MLK/X” Season 4, Episode 7 titled “The Sword and the Shield,” airing on National Geographic at 9:00 Pm on Thursday, February 22, 2024. In this compelling installment, viewers will witness a brief but impactful meeting between the two iconic leaders, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, in Washington D.C. as they rally support for the passage of the Civil Rights Act.
As the Civil Rights movement gains momentum, Martin Luther King Jr. receives the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless advocacy and leadership. Meanwhile, Malcolm X takes significant steps forward by forming two new organizations, further solidifying his position as a key figure in the struggle for racial equality.
However, both men find themselves under increasing scrutiny and surveillance, highlighting the challenges they face in their fight for justice and equality. Don’t miss the drama, tension, and historical significance in...
As the Civil Rights movement gains momentum, Martin Luther King Jr. receives the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless advocacy and leadership. Meanwhile, Malcolm X takes significant steps forward by forming two new organizations, further solidifying his position as a key figure in the struggle for racial equality.
However, both men find themselves under increasing scrutiny and surveillance, highlighting the challenges they face in their fight for justice and equality. Don’t miss the drama, tension, and historical significance in...
- 2/15/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Another Pine Valley mainstay is making their way to Port Charles.
All My Children vet Eva Larue — who played neurologist Dr. Maria Santos Grey on the now-defunct ABC soap off and on over the course of 18 years — is joining General Hospital as Blaze’s (Jacqueline Grace Lopez) mother, TVLine has learned exclusively.
More from TVLineDancing With the Stars EP Explains Why the Judges' Save Was EliminatedJimmy Kimmel Goes to BarbieLand in Elaborate Oscars Promo, With Help From Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera and More - WatchGenius: MLK/X Exclusive: Malcolm X Confronts Elijah Muhammad in Ron Cephas Jones' Final TV Scene - Watch
Larue’s character,...
All My Children vet Eva Larue — who played neurologist Dr. Maria Santos Grey on the now-defunct ABC soap off and on over the course of 18 years — is joining General Hospital as Blaze’s (Jacqueline Grace Lopez) mother, TVLine has learned exclusively.
More from TVLineDancing With the Stars EP Explains Why the Judges' Save Was EliminatedJimmy Kimmel Goes to BarbieLand in Elaborate Oscars Promo, With Help From Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera and More - WatchGenius: MLK/X Exclusive: Malcolm X Confronts Elijah Muhammad in Ron Cephas Jones' Final TV Scene - Watch
Larue’s character,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
This week’s new episodes of the NatGeo limited series Genius: MLK/X mark the final TV performance of Ron Cephas Jones, who died in August at 66 years old.
The late actor recurred as Elijah Muhammad, the embattled leader of the Nation of Islam and Malcolm X’s mentor.
More from TVLineS.W.A.T. Moves Two Vets to Recurring in Final Season, EP Promises a 'Proper Curtain Call' for Each (Exclusive)Young Sheldon First Look: Mandy Joins the Family in Final Season Title Sequence - Watch Ahead of Premiere!Genius: MLK/X Stars Discuss the 'Unnerving' Task of Portraying Civil...
The late actor recurred as Elijah Muhammad, the embattled leader of the Nation of Islam and Malcolm X’s mentor.
More from TVLineS.W.A.T. Moves Two Vets to Recurring in Final Season, EP Promises a 'Proper Curtain Call' for Each (Exclusive)Young Sheldon First Look: Mandy Joins the Family in Final Season Title Sequence - Watch Ahead of Premiere!Genius: MLK/X Stars Discuss the 'Unnerving' Task of Portraying Civil...
- 2/13/2024
- by Keisha Hatchett
- TVLine.com
Get ready for a riveting episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as Season 4 Episode 6, titled “The American Promise,” airs on National Geographic at 10:09 Pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024. In this pivotal installment, viewers are transported back to the monumental events of 1963 that shaped the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the March on Washington and the tragic assassination of President Kennedy, both men find themselves at a crossroads. Martin emerges as the moral leader of the civil rights movement, leading with unwavering resolve and determination. Meanwhile, Malcolm faces turmoil within the Nation of Islam, ultimately leading to his suspension from the organization.
Join the journey as “Genius: MLK/X” delves into the profound impact of these historic events on the lives and legacies of two iconic figures. Don’t miss “The American Promise” as it offers insight into the struggles and triumphs of Martin Luther King Jr.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the March on Washington and the tragic assassination of President Kennedy, both men find themselves at a crossroads. Martin emerges as the moral leader of the civil rights movement, leading with unwavering resolve and determination. Meanwhile, Malcolm faces turmoil within the Nation of Islam, ultimately leading to his suspension from the organization.
Join the journey as “Genius: MLK/X” delves into the profound impact of these historic events on the lives and legacies of two iconic figures. Don’t miss “The American Promise” as it offers insight into the struggles and triumphs of Martin Luther King Jr.
- 2/8/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Get ready for an emotionally charged episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as Season 4 Episode 5, titled “Matriarchs,” airs on National Geographic at 9:00 Pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024. In this compelling installment, viewers are taken behind the scenes to explore the lives of Coretta Scott King and Betty Shabazz, the influential wives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, respectively.
As pressures and expectations mount, Coretta and Betty find themselves grappling with the challenges of balancing their public personas with their private lives. They are forced to confront their resolve and decisions, questioning the sacrifices they’ve made in the name of their husbands’ causes.
With raw emotions and poignant storytelling, “Matriarchs” offers a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of two remarkable women who played pivotal roles in the civil rights movement. Don’t miss this powerful episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as it delves deep into the complexities of love, activism,...
As pressures and expectations mount, Coretta and Betty find themselves grappling with the challenges of balancing their public personas with their private lives. They are forced to confront their resolve and decisions, questioning the sacrifices they’ve made in the name of their husbands’ causes.
With raw emotions and poignant storytelling, “Matriarchs” offers a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of two remarkable women who played pivotal roles in the civil rights movement. Don’t miss this powerful episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as it delves deep into the complexities of love, activism,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Samuel L. Jackson, Jeffrey Wright, and David Oyelowo have all portrayed civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr., whose Atlanta sit-ins, Montgomery bus boycotts, and peaceful protests desegregated the nation. When Kelvin Harrison Jr. was first offered the role, he was overwhelmed by the weight of the historical figure and turned it down.
“I still was a little bit scared and unsure if that was something that I needed to be participating in,” Harrison tells Rolling Stone. “I didn’t really see what I could offer in this moment, and...
“I still was a little bit scared and unsure if that was something that I needed to be participating in,” Harrison tells Rolling Stone. “I didn’t really see what I could offer in this moment, and...
- 2/1/2024
- by Kalia Richardson
- Rollingstone.com
Get ready for an intense and thought-provoking episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as Season 4 continues with Episode 4 titled “Watch the Throne.” This powerful installment is set to air on National Geographic at 10:10 Pm on Thursday, February 8, 2024, and it promises to be a defining moment in the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
In this gripping episode, Martin Luther King Jr. faces a harrowing attack that forces him to confront his own mortality. The aftermath of this attack leaves him grappling with profound questions about his leadership and the sacrifices required to lead a movement.
Meanwhile, Malcolm X seizes an opportunity to elevate the profile of the Nation of Islam (Noi). His strategic mind and determination to empower his community take center stage as he works tirelessly to further the Noi’s influence.
“Watch the Throne” delves deep into the complexities of leadership, activism, and personal sacrifice.
In this gripping episode, Martin Luther King Jr. faces a harrowing attack that forces him to confront his own mortality. The aftermath of this attack leaves him grappling with profound questions about his leadership and the sacrifices required to lead a movement.
Meanwhile, Malcolm X seizes an opportunity to elevate the profile of the Nation of Islam (Noi). His strategic mind and determination to empower his community take center stage as he works tirelessly to further the Noi’s influence.
“Watch the Throne” delves deep into the complexities of leadership, activism, and personal sacrifice.
- 2/1/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Get ready for a captivating episode of “Genius: MLK/X” as the series continues with Season 4, Episode 3 titled “Protect Us.” This thought-provoking episode is scheduled to air on National Geographic at 9:00 Pm on Thursday, February 8, 2024, and it promises to be a powerful exploration of pivotal moments in the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
In this installment, the Bus Boycott gains momentum, and Martin Luther King Jr. finds himself and his new family facing growing safety concerns. As he leads the civil rights movement, the risks and challenges escalate, testing his determination and resolve like never before.
Meanwhile, Malcolm X is on his own path, working tirelessly to create a space for Muslims in the vibrant Harlem community. His journey introduces him to new member Betty Saunders, and viewers can look forward to witnessing their initial meeting and the dynamics that unfold.
“Genius: MLK/X” continues...
In this installment, the Bus Boycott gains momentum, and Martin Luther King Jr. finds himself and his new family facing growing safety concerns. As he leads the civil rights movement, the risks and challenges escalate, testing his determination and resolve like never before.
Meanwhile, Malcolm X is on his own path, working tirelessly to create a space for Muslims in the vibrant Harlem community. His journey introduces him to new member Betty Saunders, and viewers can look forward to witnessing their initial meeting and the dynamics that unfold.
“Genius: MLK/X” continues...
- 2/1/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Fresh off an acclaimed performance as the Chevalier de Saint-Georges in “Chevalier,” Kelvin Harrison Jr. takes on the mantle of another historic figure, Martin Luther King Jr., in the new season of “Genius.” But unlike past installments of this National Geographic anthology series which have focused on Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso and Aretha Franklin, this season centers on King and Malcolm X, played by Aaron Pierre. Watch the official trailer for “Genius: MLK/X” above; the first episodes air on February 1.
The trailer begins by showing the only time King and Malcolm X ever met, which took place in 1964 in Washington, D.C.. The eight-episode season follows the two icons from their adolescence through to their assassinations, drawing out the parallels in their journeys as they both “fight against oppression.” The show will shine a spotlight not only on their public struggles and triumphs, but also their family lives and...
The trailer begins by showing the only time King and Malcolm X ever met, which took place in 1964 in Washington, D.C.. The eight-episode season follows the two icons from their adolescence through to their assassinations, drawing out the parallels in their journeys as they both “fight against oppression.” The show will shine a spotlight not only on their public struggles and triumphs, but also their family lives and...
- 1/29/2024
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Revered civil rights movement leaders Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre) come together in the full trailer for Genius: MLK/X, which was released on Thursday.
The above sneak peek depicts a chance meeting between both icons while waiting for a press conference on March 26, 1964. Both men had ventured to Washington D.C. to hear the Senate debate on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The encounter only lasted a minute, and they never saw each other again.
More from TVLineGiancarlo Esposito Takes the Wheel in New Trailer for AMC's Parish - Plus,...
The above sneak peek depicts a chance meeting between both icons while waiting for a press conference on March 26, 1964. Both men had ventured to Washington D.C. to hear the Senate debate on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The encounter only lasted a minute, and they never saw each other again.
More from TVLineGiancarlo Esposito Takes the Wheel in New Trailer for AMC's Parish - Plus,...
- 1/11/2024
- by Keisha Hatchett
- TVLine.com
A boxing legend is born.
This week, the trailer debuted for the new documentary “Cassius X: Becoming Ali”, which tells the story of the man who would become Muhammad Ali.
Read More: Muhammad Ali 80th Birthday To Be Marked With Virtual Event
Focusing on the early years of his life and career, the documentary tracks Ali, back when he was known as Cassius Clay, on his journey from rookie boxer out of Louisville, Ken., to becoming the world heavyweight champion.
It also follows Ali’s evolution from working class intellectual to one of the most influential civil right advocates in American history, inspired by the teachings of Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad and his friendship with civil rights icon Malcolm X.
Read More: Muhammad Ali & Malcolm X Form An Unbeatable Bond In ‘Blood Brothers’ Documentary Trailer
Malcolm would spur the young boxer to take the name Cassius X, before...
This week, the trailer debuted for the new documentary “Cassius X: Becoming Ali”, which tells the story of the man who would become Muhammad Ali.
Read More: Muhammad Ali 80th Birthday To Be Marked With Virtual Event
Focusing on the early years of his life and career, the documentary tracks Ali, back when he was known as Cassius Clay, on his journey from rookie boxer out of Louisville, Ken., to becoming the world heavyweight champion.
It also follows Ali’s evolution from working class intellectual to one of the most influential civil right advocates in American history, inspired by the teachings of Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad and his friendship with civil rights icon Malcolm X.
Read More: Muhammad Ali & Malcolm X Form An Unbeatable Bond In ‘Blood Brothers’ Documentary Trailer
Malcolm would spur the young boxer to take the name Cassius X, before...
- 10/5/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Speciality distributor Cosmic Cat has set U.K. release dates for documentary “Cassius X: Becoming Ali.”
The film follows the early years of Cassius Clay, from a bright-eyed rookie boxer from Louisville, Kentucky, to world heavyweight champion and from working class intellectual to one of America’s most influential civil rights campaigners. The film reveals how the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, reinforced by a friendship with revolutionary preacher, Malcolm X, set Clay on the journey to become Cassius X, before his induction to the Nation of Islam and ascension to the name of Muhammad Ali.
“Cassius X: Becoming Ali” is directed by Muta’Ali Muhammad (“Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn”) and is based on the book “Cassius X: A Legend In The Making” by journalist Stuart Cosgrove. It is produced by Two Rivers Media (“The Small Hand (Ghost Story),” “Killing Escobar”) in association with Paramount Media Networks and MTV Entertainment Studios...
The film follows the early years of Cassius Clay, from a bright-eyed rookie boxer from Louisville, Kentucky, to world heavyweight champion and from working class intellectual to one of America’s most influential civil rights campaigners. The film reveals how the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, reinforced by a friendship with revolutionary preacher, Malcolm X, set Clay on the journey to become Cassius X, before his induction to the Nation of Islam and ascension to the name of Muhammad Ali.
“Cassius X: Becoming Ali” is directed by Muta’Ali Muhammad (“Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn”) and is based on the book “Cassius X: A Legend In The Making” by journalist Stuart Cosgrove. It is produced by Two Rivers Media (“The Small Hand (Ghost Story),” “Killing Escobar”) in association with Paramount Media Networks and MTV Entertainment Studios...
- 10/5/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Ron Cephas Jones, who won two Emmy Awards for his role as William Hill on This Is Us, has died. He was 66.
The actor died due to a long-standing pulmonary issue. The Gersh Agency confirmed his death on Sunday. People magazine first reported the news.
“Throughout the course of his career, his warmth, beauty, generosity, kindness and heart were felt by anyone who had the good fortune of knowing him,” a statement to People read. “He began his career at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and his love for the stage was present throughout his entire career, including his recent Tony nominated and Drama Desk Award winning performance for his role in Clyde’s on Broadway. Ron’s inner beauty and soul was evident to the huge audience from his multi-Emmy award winning performance on This is Us.”
Born on Jan. 8, 1957, in Paterson, New Jersey, Jones went on to pursue a career in acting.
The actor died due to a long-standing pulmonary issue. The Gersh Agency confirmed his death on Sunday. People magazine first reported the news.
“Throughout the course of his career, his warmth, beauty, generosity, kindness and heart were felt by anyone who had the good fortune of knowing him,” a statement to People read. “He began his career at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and his love for the stage was present throughout his entire career, including his recent Tony nominated and Drama Desk Award winning performance for his role in Clyde’s on Broadway. Ron’s inner beauty and soul was evident to the huge audience from his multi-Emmy award winning performance on This is Us.”
Born on Jan. 8, 1957, in Paterson, New Jersey, Jones went on to pursue a career in acting.
- 8/19/2023
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Biography films are a fascinating genre that depict the lives of real people, often with dramatic and artistic flair. They can inspire us, educate us, entertain us, and challenge us to think about the world in new ways. Some of the most acclaimed and influential films of all time belong to this genre, and they span across different eras, cultures, and themes.
In this article, we will rank the 10 best biography films of all time, after the release of Oppenheimer in 2023. Oppenheimer is a biographical film directed by Christopher Nolan, starring Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American scientist who led the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The film has been praised for its stunning cinematography, complex narrative, and powerful performances. It is widely considered to be one of the best films of 2023, and a masterpiece of biographical cinema.
But what are the other films...
In this article, we will rank the 10 best biography films of all time, after the release of Oppenheimer in 2023. Oppenheimer is a biographical film directed by Christopher Nolan, starring Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American scientist who led the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The film has been praised for its stunning cinematography, complex narrative, and powerful performances. It is widely considered to be one of the best films of 2023, and a masterpiece of biographical cinema.
But what are the other films...
- 7/28/2023
- by amalprasadappu
- https://thecinemanews.online/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_4649
Leading the news and documentary jury at this year’s Monte-Carlo Television Festival, Peabody and Emmy-winning filmmaker Tom Jennings has seen the non-fiction business trend toward premium offerings with more event series – an evolution shared across much of the larger television landscape and pushed, in no small part, by streamers.
“Ten to 15 years ago, we were a ratings driven business,” he tells Variety. “Now, it’s a question of getting people to sign up and stick around because what they like is on a given platform.”
For companies likes Jennings’ 1895 Films the shifting terrain has resulted in shorter episode order with greater budgets as docs and dramas find themselves showcased alongside one another with little divide.
“The call for always having something unique is probably more intense now,” says Jennings. “We have to operate at a very high level in terms quality, because we’re competing with all the blue...
“Ten to 15 years ago, we were a ratings driven business,” he tells Variety. “Now, it’s a question of getting people to sign up and stick around because what they like is on a given platform.”
For companies likes Jennings’ 1895 Films the shifting terrain has resulted in shorter episode order with greater budgets as docs and dramas find themselves showcased alongside one another with little divide.
“The call for always having something unique is probably more intense now,” says Jennings. “We have to operate at a very high level in terms quality, because we’re competing with all the blue...
- 6/19/2023
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Till‘s Jalyn Hall will play another important Black American historical figure after booking a guest-starring role playing the young Martin Luther King Jr in Genius: MLK/X, the upcoming fourth installment in the Disney+/National Geographic anthology series.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. (The Trial of the Chicago 7) plays the adult Martin Luther King Jr in the series, which will focus on the relationship between Martin Luther King Jr and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre). Weruche Opia as Coretta Scott King, Jayme Lawson as Betty Shabazz and Ron Cephas Jones as Elijah Muhammad also star in the anthology, the first installment to stream as a Disney+ original. Channing Godfrey Peoples (Miss Juneteenth) directs the pilot episode and serves as co-executive producer.
Hall has been on Supporting Actor Oscar contenders lists and was just nominated for a Critics Choice Award for Best Young Actor for his performance in Chinonye Chukwu’s Till,...
Kelvin Harrison Jr. (The Trial of the Chicago 7) plays the adult Martin Luther King Jr in the series, which will focus on the relationship between Martin Luther King Jr and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre). Weruche Opia as Coretta Scott King, Jayme Lawson as Betty Shabazz and Ron Cephas Jones as Elijah Muhammad also star in the anthology, the first installment to stream as a Disney+ original. Channing Godfrey Peoples (Miss Juneteenth) directs the pilot episode and serves as co-executive producer.
Hall has been on Supporting Actor Oscar contenders lists and was just nominated for a Critics Choice Award for Best Young Actor for his performance in Chinonye Chukwu’s Till,...
- 12/15/2022
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Disney+ and National Geographic have set the remaining cast for Genius: MLK/X, the fourth installment in the anthology series. Ron Cephas Jones (This Is Us), Gary Carr (The Peripheral) and Hubert Point-Du Jour (The Good Lord Bird) are set as series regulars opposite previously announced Kelvin Harrison Jr., Aaron Pierre, Weruche Opia and Jayme Lawson. Lennie James (The Walking Dead), LisaGay Hamilton (Lincoln Lawyer), Ashley Romans (Y: The Last Man), Donal Logue (Departure) and Griffin Matthews (The Flight Attendant) recur in the series, which will focus on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Pierre).
Genius: MLK/X, the first installment of Nat Geo’s series to stream as a Disney+ original, will explore the formative years, pioneering accomplishments, dueling philosophies and key personal relationships of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Pierre). While King advanced racial equality through nonviolent protest,...
Genius: MLK/X, the first installment of Nat Geo’s series to stream as a Disney+ original, will explore the formative years, pioneering accomplishments, dueling philosophies and key personal relationships of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Pierre). While King advanced racial equality through nonviolent protest,...
- 11/30/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
No group had it locked like Public Enemy the year Mandela was finally let out of prison. In 1990, when their momentum-grabbing third album dropped, its songs and the band’s logo — a defiant, beret-adorned B-boy in the crosshairs of a gun — were as ubiquitous as the African medallions worn by Black folks in virtually every North American city. If 1988’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back is Public Enemy’s brilliant bedrock, Fear of a Black Planet represents their all-encompassing apex. This Black History Month is...
- 2/4/2022
- by Will Dukes
- Rollingstone.com
“Hold Your Fire” uncovers the untold story behind the longest hostage siege in New York Police Department history that also became the origin story of modern hostage negotiation. Director Stefan Forbes’ “Rashomon”-esque examination of policing in America, told from a triad of conflicting perspectives, arrives as the country finds itself amid a relitigating of the historically volatile relationship between police and African American communities.
In January 1973, a fatal 47 hours at John and Al’s Sporting Goods store in Brooklyn began when four young Black men — Shuaib Raheem, Salih Abdullah, Dawud Rahman, and Yusef Almussidig — were cornered by the NYPD after they attempted to steal guns and ammunition. The four men took hostages, a gun battle ensued, and soon police officer Stephen Gilroy lay dead on the sidewalk.
Hundreds of police officers poured in, intent on carrying out what was then standard NYPD procedure: issue an ultimatum and, if not met within a specified period,...
In January 1973, a fatal 47 hours at John and Al’s Sporting Goods store in Brooklyn began when four young Black men — Shuaib Raheem, Salih Abdullah, Dawud Rahman, and Yusef Almussidig — were cornered by the NYPD after they attempted to steal guns and ammunition. The four men took hostages, a gun battle ensued, and soon police officer Stephen Gilroy lay dead on the sidewalk.
Hundreds of police officers poured in, intent on carrying out what was then standard NYPD procedure: issue an ultimatum and, if not met within a specified period,...
- 9/10/2021
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
“Blood Brothers” floats on perceptive interviews, rich archival photos and pointed newsreel footage. It stings, too, with its exploration of two iconic, uncompromising figures who were friends for (the film persuasively argues) too short a spell. Director Marcus A. Clarke used Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith’s “Blood Brothers: The Fatal Friendship Between Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X” as a touchstone for this documentary — available on Netflix — but also brought his own insights as a Black man in America to the work. The result is thought-provoking, resonant, often touching.
The duo envisioned by “One Night in Miami” were nearing the end of their deep bond when they celebrated Cassius Clay’s victory over Sonny Liston in the 1964 heavyweight title bout. Although Malcolm X was 16 years older, there were similarities. Each embodied curiosity. Each met white racism with gloves off. Both were verbal stylists. Ali waxed poetic. Malcolm X lit fires...
The duo envisioned by “One Night in Miami” were nearing the end of their deep bond when they celebrated Cassius Clay’s victory over Sonny Liston in the 1964 heavyweight title bout. Although Malcolm X was 16 years older, there were similarities. Each embodied curiosity. Each met white racism with gloves off. Both were verbal stylists. Ali waxed poetic. Malcolm X lit fires...
- 9/10/2021
- by Lisa Kennedy
- Variety Film + TV
‘Blood Brothers’ Review: Conventional Doc Traces Exceptional Bond Between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali
Titans of influence from their individual trenches, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali were instrumental in carving a prideful and revolutionary vision for the future of Black people stateside and abroad over the course of some of their most media-hectic years. That the two of them were connected not solely by being contemporaries, but through an intimate, if short-lived, friendship, resonates as a sonic boom of fateful proportions.
But as the documentary “Blood Brothers” from director Marcus A. Clarke examines, the schism that ended their fraternal bond was just as thunderous. Using the same-title book by researches Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith, both talking heads in the film, as a guide, Clarke first maps out in broad strokes their separate ascents to prominence: one as a radical speaker for Black liberation and the other displaying his towering prowess in sport.
briefly traces Malcolm X’s affinity for the ideals of activist Marcus Garvey,...
But as the documentary “Blood Brothers” from director Marcus A. Clarke examines, the schism that ended their fraternal bond was just as thunderous. Using the same-title book by researches Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith, both talking heads in the film, as a guide, Clarke first maps out in broad strokes their separate ascents to prominence: one as a radical speaker for Black liberation and the other displaying his towering prowess in sport.
briefly traces Malcolm X’s affinity for the ideals of activist Marcus Garvey,...
- 9/9/2021
- by Carlos Aguilar
- Indiewire
Fascination with Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali’s complex friendship got a boost from pop culture over the last year or so: Theirs was a central relationship in Regina King’s debut feature “One Night In Miami,” and it was also highlighted in the Epix series “The Godfather of Harlem,” starring Forest Whitaker. As interesting as these portrayals are, truth is often more compelling than fiction, which is exactly what Netflix’s provocative documentary “Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali” illustrates.
The film is driven by the book “Blood Brothers: The Fatal Friendship Between Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X” from Purdue professor Randy Roberts and Georgia Tech’s Johnny Smith, both of whom are consistent presences throughout the documentary. Directed by Marcus A. Clarke (“Around the Way”) and produced by “black-ish” creator Kenya Barris, “Blood Brothers” brilliantly outlines the historical context in which these two powerhouses emerged.
The documentary...
The film is driven by the book “Blood Brothers: The Fatal Friendship Between Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X” from Purdue professor Randy Roberts and Georgia Tech’s Johnny Smith, both of whom are consistent presences throughout the documentary. Directed by Marcus A. Clarke (“Around the Way”) and produced by “black-ish” creator Kenya Barris, “Blood Brothers” brilliantly outlines the historical context in which these two powerhouses emerged.
The documentary...
- 9/1/2021
- by Ronda Racha Penrice
- The Wrap
Without question, Muhammad Ali (who died on June 3rd, 2016) transformed the world of sports. Winning the heavyweight title three times — beginning with his shocking upset of Sonny Liston in 1964, which made him the youngest boxer to unseat an incumbent heavyweight champion — Ali is considered, alongside Joe Louis and Sugar Ray Robinson, one of the best boxers ever to enter a ring. Though his pugilistic style was unorthodox and an affront to boxing purists at the time, his dazzling combination of speed and power revolutionized the sport, and most boxing observers...
- 6/3/2021
- by Mike Rubin
- Rollingstone.com
Kingsley Ben-Adir loved so much about Kemp Powers’ script for Regina King’s “One Night in Miami” the first time he read it: nuanced writing, emotional depictions of Black icons, and a scenario ripe for a rich reimagining. What he was not struck by, however, was the role he was initially asked to considering playing: a young, boisterous Cassius Clay, celebrating his first World Heavyweight Championship with three of his closest friends in a Miami hotel.
“Immediately, I knew that Cash wasn’t for me,” the actor told IndieWire during a recent interview. “I was playing Mac in ‘High Fidelity’ [at the time] and I felt that I was [now] playing someone who was evolved and older. He just felt so young.” Clay, soon to become Muhammad Ali, was young at the time: He had just turned 22 and Ben-Adir had already passed 30.
While the British actor didn’t vibe with Cassius Clay, he couldn...
“Immediately, I knew that Cash wasn’t for me,” the actor told IndieWire during a recent interview. “I was playing Mac in ‘High Fidelity’ [at the time] and I felt that I was [now] playing someone who was evolved and older. He just felt so young.” Clay, soon to become Muhammad Ali, was young at the time: He had just turned 22 and Ben-Adir had already passed 30.
While the British actor didn’t vibe with Cassius Clay, he couldn...
- 2/3/2021
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Kingsley Ben-Adir is earning critical acclaim and awards buzz for his star turn as Malcolm X in “One Night in Miami.” The film imagines a conversation between four of the most famous Black public figures of the 1960s — Malcolm X, Cassius Clay, Jim Brown and Sam Cooke. In reading through the script and diving into less familiar areas of Malcolm’s life, Ben-Adir came away with a fuller understanding of the man behind the activism. “I took a deep dive into American civil rights in my early 20s and my grandad would’ve spoken about Malcolm for sure but I didn’t know as much as I thought,” says Ben-Adir in an exclusive new interview for Gold Derby. “My mind was blown. There was so much I didn’t know.”
SEEDirector Regina King and writer Kemp Powers on making ‘One Night in Miami’
Now streaming on Amazon Prime, the movie...
SEEDirector Regina King and writer Kemp Powers on making ‘One Night in Miami’
Now streaming on Amazon Prime, the movie...
- 1/19/2021
- by Kevin Jacobsen
- Gold Derby
With “One Night in Miami,” Regina King stands apart from many of her actor-turned-director peers, many of whom bring little with them behind the camera besides the emails of fellow A-listers who owe them a favor. King’s frequent episodic directorial gigs have clearly given her the wherewithal to make a feature film that’s ambitious in its storytelling, its visuals and its ideology.
For a first-timer to tackle a period piece featuring four cultural legends would be impressive enough, more so when said period piece is based on a four-guys-in-a room play that the screen adaptation livens up with musical performance, boxing sequences and massive crowd scenes. King doesn’t just take on these challenges; she succeeds at turning a property with a number of potential wrong turns into a vibrant historical tale tackling issues and controversies that remain tragically relevant nearly 60 years later.
There are plenty of plays...
For a first-timer to tackle a period piece featuring four cultural legends would be impressive enough, more so when said period piece is based on a four-guys-in-a room play that the screen adaptation livens up with musical performance, boxing sequences and massive crowd scenes. King doesn’t just take on these challenges; she succeeds at turning a property with a number of potential wrong turns into a vibrant historical tale tackling issues and controversies that remain tragically relevant nearly 60 years later.
There are plenty of plays...
- 1/15/2021
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
It’s supposed to be a celebration. On a balmy night in Miami, in February 1964, four friends — Malcolm X, Cassius Clay, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke — get together in a humble room at a black-friendly hotel, bypassing the environs of the nicer, whiter Fountainbleau nearby. The occasion: the 22-year-old Clay’s surprise title win over Sonny Liston. Their vice: a tub of ice cream. At the door, men from the Nation of Islam stand guard over this powerhouse gathering of mid-century black celebrity. Across the street, a pair of unknown white men are also,...
- 1/14/2021
- by K. Austin Collins
- Rollingstone.com
Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, Jim Brown, and Muhammad Ali walk into a motel room. No really, this isn’t a put-on. It’s an event that actually happened (more or less) on the night that Ali won the heavyweight championship of the world in 1964, and right before he changed his name from Cassius Clay. Now what these four historic figures at the intersection of Black male celebrity and wider American pop culture said to each other that evening is unknown… but it makes the mind wander; it also makes for a hell of a good story in One Night in Miami.
The new film from director Regina King marks the Oscar and Emmy winning actor’s first foray into feature-length directing intended for the big screen—even as most audiences will only see One Night in Miami on Amazon when it premieres on the streaming service later this year—and...
The new film from director Regina King marks the Oscar and Emmy winning actor’s first foray into feature-length directing intended for the big screen—even as most audiences will only see One Night in Miami on Amazon when it premieres on the streaming service later this year—and...
- 1/9/2021
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
At the dawning of 2021, one of the first big new releases harkens back to a movie trope that goes back nearly eighty years, the “team-up picture”. Probably 1943 really, when Universal Studios had the idea to pair two of its big “monster” properties in Frankenstein Meets The Wolfman, which proved so successful that they added Dracula for their House Of flicks before sending them out to pasture after encountering comedians Abbott & Costello. The idea would resurface in the 60s as the Japanese giant “beasties” tangled in several films (even our King Kong dropped in for one). In between those series other genres gave it a try with Westerns and crime sagas, low-cost since they’re historical figures. Most recently the franchises of Marvel and DC have converged for The Avengers (four so far) and Justice League. So, why not another “real-life re-uniting”? How about a fictional “get together” of four African American icons?...
- 1/8/2021
- by Jim Batts
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
It’s a strange sight. Fresh off witnessing his pal Cassius Clay become the heavyweight champion of the world, soul singer Sam Cooke sits alone in his room. Actually, it’s a motel space Malcolm X has rented out for Cooke and several other Black luminaries at the center of 1960s American culture, but Cooke is the first one to arrive… and he looks more comfortable here by himself, finding peace while strumming a guitar, than moments earlier when he stood in the ring with Clay, holding hands up after the new champ’s Tko victory over Sonny Liston.
But then that is one of the remarkable strengths of director Regina King and writer Kemp Powers’ One Night in Miami: It approaches four larger than life figures who loomed tall above the mid-20th century and reveals each to be, in his own way, an introvert. Yes, weeks before...
But then that is one of the remarkable strengths of director Regina King and writer Kemp Powers’ One Night in Miami: It approaches four larger than life figures who loomed tall above the mid-20th century and reveals each to be, in his own way, an introvert. Yes, weeks before...
- 9/11/2020
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
The strangest, most up-in-the-air Oscar season has begun with the 77th Venice Film Festival, which features more social distancing and less star power due to Covid-19. But that doesn’t mean that Venice has lost its luster for catapulting a movie into the awards race.
The first bonafide major contender for the 2021 Oscars season arrives with “One Night in Miami” from director Regina King, her feature debut behind the camera. With all the goodness that unfolds over its 110-minute runtime, the drama seems poised to go far in this year’s awards race.
The Amazon Studios’ release tells the story of one incredible night where Muhammad Ali (Eli Goree), Jim Brown (Aldis Hodge), Sam Cooke and Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir) gathered after Ali defeated Sonny Liston in February 1964. The fictional account follows four historical icons as they discuss the civil rights movement in the 1960s.
Two years ago, Regina King...
The first bonafide major contender for the 2021 Oscars season arrives with “One Night in Miami” from director Regina King, her feature debut behind the camera. With all the goodness that unfolds over its 110-minute runtime, the drama seems poised to go far in this year’s awards race.
The Amazon Studios’ release tells the story of one incredible night where Muhammad Ali (Eli Goree), Jim Brown (Aldis Hodge), Sam Cooke and Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir) gathered after Ali defeated Sonny Liston in February 1964. The fictional account follows four historical icons as they discuss the civil rights movement in the 1960s.
Two years ago, Regina King...
- 9/7/2020
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
“One Night in Miami” is one of those dramas with a hooky, irresistible meeting-of-the-minds premise that places four legends in a single room, all so that we can sit back and watch the verbal-philosophical fireworks fly. The movie takes place on Feb. 25, 1964, the night that Cassius Clay, at 22, won the world heavyweight championship by defeating Sonny Liston in a title bout at the Miami Beach Convention Center. To celebrate his victory, he heads over to the modest, rather shabby small suite where his friend Malcolm X is staying at the Hampton House, a motel that caters to Black celebrities. There, the two are joined by the football superstar Jim Brown and the soul legend Sam Cooke.
That sounds like a quintessential what if?, but the four were in fact friends, and this get-together really did take place; it’s just that very little is known about it. “One Night in Miami...
That sounds like a quintessential what if?, but the four were in fact friends, and this get-together really did take place; it’s just that very little is known about it. “One Night in Miami...
- 9/7/2020
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Godfather of Harlem goes after the American Dream by any means necessary.
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Godfather of Harlem is a modern look into the past which is both unflinching and hopeful. It's a crime drama, yes, but the law-breaking cuts both ways. Forest Whitaker plays real life New York Crime boss Bumpy Johnson after he got out of Alcatraz prison for taking the fall for the mob in a heroin deal.
The series leaves out one true fact which could have been extremely cinematic. When Johnson got out of Alcatraz, the people of Harlem threw him a ticker tape parade. It wasn't planned. It happened spontaneously. That's how much Bumpy was loved in the hood. His family moved to Harlem when Bumpy was 10 years old. His brother William was accused of killing a white man in Charleston, South Carolina. Born on Halloween 1905, he got the nickname “Bumpy” because he had a slightly deformed head.
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Godfather of Harlem is a modern look into the past which is both unflinching and hopeful. It's a crime drama, yes, but the law-breaking cuts both ways. Forest Whitaker plays real life New York Crime boss Bumpy Johnson after he got out of Alcatraz prison for taking the fall for the mob in a heroin deal.
The series leaves out one true fact which could have been extremely cinematic. When Johnson got out of Alcatraz, the people of Harlem threw him a ticker tape parade. It wasn't planned. It happened spontaneously. That's how much Bumpy was loved in the hood. His family moved to Harlem when Bumpy was 10 years old. His brother William was accused of killing a white man in Charleston, South Carolina. Born on Halloween 1905, he got the nickname “Bumpy” because he had a slightly deformed head.
- 9/20/2019
- Den of Geek
Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein’s new Epix series Godfather of Harlem tells the story of crime boss Bumpy Johnson (Forest Whitaker), a figure in the early 1960s who returned from a ten-year jail stint to find his neighborhood overrun by the Italian mob.
One of the more intriguing true-life historical points played out in the series is his relationship with Malcolm X, as the two join forces to manage the social upheaval and mob war that looms. In the trailer, Malcolm X says to Johnson, “You have guns, but I have an army.”
“Bumpy has his hustle going, and Malcolm has his,” Brancato told Deadline following the TCA afternoon session.
Brancato shared with the TCA press corps that as part of the creators’ research about the duo’s unique relationship, they not only combed through books about Malcolm X and Johnson, but interviews were conducted with “surviving heirs” of the two.
One of the more intriguing true-life historical points played out in the series is his relationship with Malcolm X, as the two join forces to manage the social upheaval and mob war that looms. In the trailer, Malcolm X says to Johnson, “You have guns, but I have an army.”
“Bumpy has his hustle going, and Malcolm has his,” Brancato told Deadline following the TCA afternoon session.
Brancato shared with the TCA press corps that as part of the creators’ research about the duo’s unique relationship, they not only combed through books about Malcolm X and Johnson, but interviews were conducted with “surviving heirs” of the two.
- 7/27/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Muhammad Ali’s bark was as formidable as his bite, and “What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali” pays tribute to both, allowing the three-time heavyweight champ to narrate his own story via a combination of audio and video archival material. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, this 165-minute documentary uses copious interview soundbites to highlight the pugilist’s unparalleled gift of gab — and, consequently, the way it served as his means of defiant self-definition. Debuting on HBO in two parts (after premiering at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival), it’s a celebration that, if not quite definitive, proves a stirring work of nonfiction assembly.
Comprised of old photos and film, TV, and radio clips, Fuqua’s project (executive-produced by LeBron James) does its best to approximate an autobiographical authorship, allowing “the greatest” to be his own storyteller. That approach, along with a narrative focus that remains almost exclusively on his public...
Comprised of old photos and film, TV, and radio clips, Fuqua’s project (executive-produced by LeBron James) does its best to approximate an autobiographical authorship, allowing “the greatest” to be his own storyteller. That approach, along with a narrative focus that remains almost exclusively on his public...
- 4/29/2019
- by Nick Schager
- Variety Film + TV
A letter Malcolm X penned to his mentor and Nation of Islam leader, Elijah Muhammad -- seeking marital advice -- is up for sale with a hefty price tag. Malcolm wrote the letter in 1959, turning to his spiritual leader for some marriage counseling. In the correspondence, Malcolm details issues he and his wife, Betty Shabazz, had been trying to sort out for months. He asks Elijah Muhammad to step in, saying ... "I have complete faith...
- 2/13/2018
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Above: Bill Siegel and Khalilah Camacho-Ali
Unlike other films about the controversial boxer, the recent documentary The Trials of Muhammad Ali makes no pretense of telling Ali’s whole story. It presumes that most of us in the audience already know it and those of us who don’t can easily fill in the gaps with the wealth of other movies, books, and TV specials devoted to his legend. Produced by Chicago-based documentary company Kartemquin Films, Trials focuses on Ali’s conversion to the Nation of Islam and the controversies associated with his religious and political convictions. These subjects are addressed in Michael Mann’s Ali (2001) and referenced in other documentaries about him, but Trials examines them in greater depth, generally neglecting his athletic achievements to better focus on his radicalism.
We took some time to speak with the film’s director, Bill Siegel, whose first film was Kartemquin-produced The Weather Underground...
Unlike other films about the controversial boxer, the recent documentary The Trials of Muhammad Ali makes no pretense of telling Ali’s whole story. It presumes that most of us in the audience already know it and those of us who don’t can easily fill in the gaps with the wealth of other movies, books, and TV specials devoted to his legend. Produced by Chicago-based documentary company Kartemquin Films, Trials focuses on Ali’s conversion to the Nation of Islam and the controversies associated with his religious and political convictions. These subjects are addressed in Michael Mann’s Ali (2001) and referenced in other documentaries about him, but Trials examines them in greater depth, generally neglecting his athletic achievements to better focus on his radicalism.
We took some time to speak with the film’s director, Bill Siegel, whose first film was Kartemquin-produced The Weather Underground...
- 12/17/2013
- by Ben and Kathleen Sachs
- MUBI
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