Why The 90's Was Such A Vibe

 

There is a social media trend going on with common folks and celebrities participating in. The "What were you like in the 90's?" trend, featuring a photo collage and sometimes videos of folks in that decade. Often played to the Goo Goo Dolls Iris, a song I love by the way. If you look at social media clips, discussions, or podcasts. Or just listen to folks talk in general, the 90's are missed. We're 6 years into the 2020's, mathematicallly the early 2000's nostalgia wave shouold have taken over by now. Yet the 90's wave is still holding strong, so I decided to break some the reasons the 90's is still so beloved.

5 Technology

90's Kids always talk about how we were the last generation to truly enjoy life before technology took over. And that is correct, we came up in the era of analog and digital and have seen technology change so much. The 90's bought us the internet complete with AOL dial-up, cable TV offerings expanding leading to the rise of digital cable. While still in it's infancy cell phones started gaining traction in the 90's to evolve into what they are today to the world.

16-bit Video game consoles like Nintendo and Sega ruled the early and mid parts of the decade. Until 64-bit video games on CD's came into play with Playstation, Sega CD, and Sega Dreamcast. Nintendo 64 produced classics like Goldeneye, Legend of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time, and the WCW and later WWF video games.

Windows 95 changed the whole game for PC's, and slowly but surely the internet became a have to have to move about in life. It was a time, which laid the foundation for so much of what we have today.

4 Sports

Whether it was hockey and greats like Wayne Gretzkey, the NFL with strong armed QB's like Dan Marino, Troy Aikman, and Brett Favre. Or running backs like Emmit Smith, Marshall Faulk, or the elusive Barry Sanders. Of course Air Jordan redefined the game of basketball in the NBA during the 90's not only on the court, but outside as well. Baseball had the greatest all-around player I've ever seen in Ken Griffey Jr. while the home run chase of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa though tainted revitalized baseball. All memorable players that produced memorable moments that have stood the test of time all these years later.

                                           

Outside of the respective stadiums and arenas, players of that era also had personality with many marching to the beat of their own drum. Guys like Dennis Rodman who was unapologetically himself, or Deion Sanders who created a whole persona based around his love for money.  He also conquered pro baseball and football, famously playing a game for the Atlanta falcons during a sunday afternoon in Miami, then flying to Pittsburgh to join the Atlanta Braves in a league championship playoff game against the Pirates.

Today's players while great atheltes many have subdubed personalities, some its just them others the respective leagues have collectively worked together to dwindle the era of larger than life athelete personalities. During the 90's good players and personalities were at its peak. 

3 Fashion

Fashion in the 90's was LOUD but subtle. From the starter jackets, to nylon sweatsuits swish swishing everywhere. The grunge look of oversized plaid shirts that went with just about anything. Baggy jeans, overalls, leather jackets. Throw in accessories like backwards baseball caps which gained popularity in the 90's, Doc Marten boots and various sunglasses. The fashion of the 90's was a spectacle in itself, sure looking back someone may say why did I wear that? Everyone pretty much dressed to fit their personality and it worked for everyone.

It was a wild time but the 90's fashion style has withstood the test of time.

2 Entertainment 

First things first from the grunge era gaining populairty and speaking to Generation X. Pop music dominating the world towards the end of the decade. To rap and Latin artitsts becoming mainstream, and 90's R&B still considered the pinnacle of R&B music. The 90's music scene was just special. 

Boyz II Men member Shawn Stockman on his podcast On That Note and record producer/Executive L.A. Reid discussed it on the show. There will never be another musically era like the 90's and they are not wrong.

TV produced Blocks that you just could not miss. ABC's legendary TGIF block of sitcoms, which honestly I believe many families today wish they had for their young families on Friday nights. Fox's Thursday night lineup of Martin, Living Single, and New York Undercover. NBC had Must-See TV with shows like The Cosby Show, A Diff'erent World, Seinfeld, Friends, Will & Grace, and ER throughout Thursdays during this decade.

For us kid's of that time, Nickeldeon had Snick on Saturday nights. Along with numerous cartoons and game shows. In fact Nickeldeon ruled that decade for 90's kids. Cartoon Network rose to promeince during that time as well, and NBC's Saturday morning Teen shows were still thriving. Nickeldeon also gave us Nick At Nite, which introduced whole new generations to classic sitcoms from the 50's to the 70's during that time.

As CGI effects became better and more affordable, more big budget films pushed the boundaries of filmmaking. While films with heart were still made, and laugh out loud comedies were still choking people from laughing so hard. 

Raunch TV also known as Crash TV spearheaded by the Jerry Springer Show, and later South Park and pro wrestling defined pop culture during the later years of the decade.

1 Everything geled together 

There's a reason the 90's are so revered, and many consider it the golden age of life. Truthfully looking back it was a good time, despite being a kid and being ignorant of so much. It truly feels like things were so much simpler back then. And everything that defined that decade from TV to fashion, all just connected together. Gen X'ers and Millennials love that decade and hold it so dear, because it really was a moment in time that will never be replicated. 

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Scary Movie May Save Comedy Films

 

Last week the first trailer for Scary Movie VI was released, with the Wayans bros. and many OG cast members returning. It looks like the film will return to the glory days of the first two movies. And in essence may bring laugh out loud comedies back to the forefront of Hollywood's mind.

Once upon a time comedies were a major Hollywood player. Somewhere between every studio trying to create their own universe of films, or chasing streaming. Comedy films got lost in the shuffle and the output from studios dwindled.

The last comedy film I remember seeing in theaters that was hilarious and successful was 2018's Blockers. 2023's Barbie movie is technically a comedy film, and was beyond successful becoming one of the highest grossing comedies of all time. That was a five year gap between the two films.

Which highlights a problem. Right now Hollywood's release schedules are dismal, and movie theaters are suffering. Big studios don't see comedies as big money makers. Yet, the superhero genre stock has dipped and nothing has truly filled that void. Sure a successful horror film here or there, a long delayed sequel and maybe a original movie becomes a sensation. But those are becoming the exception not the norm.

It's time the studios get their head out of the sand, and bring truly funny movies back to the big screen. People want to laugh so hard they have to catch their breath. And thats just not happening in the film world. From the raunchy movies like American Pie, The Hangover and Girls Trip to silly good natured films like What Happens in Vegas, Think Like A Man or Pitch Perfect. 

I have a feeling if Scary Movie is successful like I think it will be. It will kick down the door and usher in a new era of classic comedies, which the film industry desperately needs.

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New Jack City Is A Crime Classic That Deserves More Respect

 

Hard to believe today is the 35th Anniversary of New Jack City. The early 90's crime drama starred Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, Chris Rock, Allen Payne, Judd Nelson, Michael Michele, Christopher Williams, and Mario Van Pebbles who also directed. Along with a soundtrack that matched the vibe of the era making it a "fresh" crime film. It was the perfect blend of film, music, and the culture.

Within the Black community it is a well revered film, reaching legendary status. However its not often included in the conversation with other classic crime dramas, which in itself is a crime.

When the top crime dramas of all time are bought up, of course you'll get The Godfather films minus the third one, Scarface, Heat, Usual Suspects, Pulp Fiction, Goodfellas, and Chinatown to name a few. All damn good iconic crime films. New Jack City absolutely deserves to be in the conversation on a CONSISTENT basis. Here are some reasons why.

First alot of people don't realize since it was distributed by Warner Bros, but it actually was an independent film. Mario Van Peebles directoral debut, was self financed before someone had a finished product and convinced Warner to pick up the tab. A true behind the scenes story of the American Dream.

Speaking of the American dream, it has the classic tale of people achieving their version of the dream. Albeit in a very unlawful and cruel way but they achieved it. The rise of the Cash Money Bros and then their downfall precipitated by ego and betrayal is displayed in the film.

Nino Brown as far as drug kingpin characters is right up there with Tony Montana. Street smart with some business acumen, egotistical, selfish, and ruthless. Wesley Snipes portrayal of Nino sparked several copycat characters throughout film and TV since 1991.

There's the corresponding storyline of a cop played by Ice-T tired of the politics, budget and red tape, bending the rules to get after Nino. While also trying to help a former addict played by Chris Rock turn his life around. All major components of life during that time and crime in general.

The film touched on all the ways the drug epidemic destroys lives and even had a message at the end. You don't see that in movies anymore. It had for sure two well shot action scenes, the famous wedding shootout and the warehouse shootout between the cops and CMB.

Throw in some all time classic lines, I mean everyone knows "Sit Yo Five Dollar ass down!" and where it came from. There are other dialogue gems in the film, but that one takes the cake. 

35 Years later its time the film is truly recognized across the board, for the crime masterpiece it is and its legacy be shown the proper respect it deserves.

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10 TV Shows That Are Black Family Heirlooms

 I saw a recent post on Instagram about song's that have been passed between generations like family treasures. Song's from the 60's on down that people instantly recognize and sing their heart out to, no matter how old they are.

So taking inspiration it got me thinking about TV shows that fall in the same category. The one's I use to watch my grandparents or my parents, or that they watched during their heyday and passed down. Or the TV shows that raised me giving me hints about life before I understood them. That I will pass down to my kids once their old enough.

Its a comprehensive list that I nailed down to 10. So before folks starting asking about this show or that show, I plan to do a few more. Without further ado here's 10 TV shows passed down like family heirlooms.

The Heat of the Night

If you ask most Millennials, they will share fond memories of watching In The Heat Of The Night during the middle of the day with a grandparents. The TV series based on the 1967 film of the same name and starring Archie Bunker himself. Debuted on NBC in 1988 running through 1992, before moving to CBS in '92 finishing out the series in 1995.

In the meantime it became a syndicated favorite that spanned generations.

Living Single 

The mid-90's Fox ensemble sitcom hit that actually inspired Friends. Living Single is known for its iconic theme song and the friendship and sisterhood the show was built around. Many Baby Boomers and Gen X'ers watched the show during its heyday, as they were living life relating to the characters.

Their millennial and Gen Z children watched as well, especially as we got older and understood some of the life stories. Now thanks to the power of streaming. Older Gen Alpha's are learning and loving this classic sitcom.

The Jeffersons

Well we're moving on up, everyone knows the opening words to the iconic theme song. This long-running 1970's sitcom produced by Norman Lear and was a spin-off from All In The Family. Was watched by my grandmother when it aired, and my mother as child/teenager.  There is not a time I do not remember this show being on air, whether through syndication on local or cable TV and now streaming.

The story of a successful Black family in their high rise apartment, and their interactions with other tenants in the building. Will continue to span generations.

Law & Order

The original Law & Order aired in 1990, and ran until 2010. 20 years for the children of day one viewers to grow up and watch the show, and then run it back and watch episodes they may have been too young for. The long-running spin-off series Law & Order: SVU is the real family heirloom.

Debuting in 1999 and still airing on NBC. SVU has become a rerun hallmark on cable TV especially the USA network. Giving the show opportunities to reach new generations.

My Wife & Kids

An updated new millennium version of The Cosby Show, My Wife and Kid's which turns 25 next month is a modern day classic. Starring Damon Wayans and Tisha Campbell, the sitcom followed a upper middle class family navigating parenthood in the early 2000s.

It ran for five seasons and was a favorite amongst many Boomers and X'ers raising the kids, and the millennials the same age as the kids. It became even more popular in syndication and when it premiered on Nick At Nite in the early 2010's. Streaming came along and it has gained even more fans.

Moesha

The mid 90's hit which was one of the first successful sitcoms for the fledging UPN network. Following a L.A. teenager played by r&b singer Brandy, the sitcom followed her adventures as a teenager navigating high school and college.

This is another sitcom with an iconic theme song , which I believe gained a resurgence and popularity through social media. Which in turn led a new generation towards the show and Millennial parents saying "I loved that show". Forging a newfound love for the sitcom.

A Different World

A spin-off of The Cosby Show, premiering in 1987 A Different World showcased life on a HBCU campus. Many members of Gen X and elder Millennials credit the sitcom for being their inspiration to attend a HBCU. Actually many Gen Z kids attend HBCU's today because of this sitcom.

It has been shown by parents who attended those schools to their kids. To give them an idea of the culture at HBCU's. In turn creating bonding moments, even the 2010s sitcom Grown-ish you can see the fingerprints of A Different World. 

With Netflix producing a legacy sequel series. A whole new generation will fall in love with Hillman College, and watch the OG sitcom with their older relatives.

Good Times

Another Norman Lear sitcom with a infectious theme song. This sitcom followed the Evans life as they navigated living in the Cabrini Green projects.  It ran for 6 seasons and left a legacy behind. Syndication has kept the Good Times train humming along for 50 years.

My parents watched it faithfully, I've watched it multiple times through the years. And my younger cousins love the sitcom as well. A testament to how much the show has been passed down through generations.

Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air

Go to a Karaoke night and you just may hear someone rapping the intro to Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air. The 90's sitcom was the catalyst for Will Smith becoming a Hollywood superstar. The six season sitcom has become a TV and in this age Phone/tablet favorite.

Whether you first watched it 1990 on NBC, caught it on your local station, or TBS and Nick At Nite when they ran it repeat every night. HBO Max or Hulu, the show is one for the ages.

Martin

There's always a debate about the funnier and more influential Black 90's sitcom Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air or Martin. While my money is on Martin, there's non denying the impact both had still to this day. My younger cousins who born after the sitcom had been off the air for more than 5 years love Martin and quote it likes it a current sitcom.

The memes, the fact its still talked about on podcasts, and the YouTube and social media clips still get thousands of likes and comments. Shows how much the sitcom is loved and how it transcends generations. Many father and sons and mom and daughters, sometimes grandparents and their grandchildren will sit in front of the TV and laugh at the sitcom. As if they've never heard the jokes before.

 

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10 Iconic Black Action Heroes

 I recently had a conversation with my brother about Black superheroes and Black action heroes. The differences between them, and if there really is a difference. So of course the wheels started spinning in my brain.

I present 10 iconic Black action heroes through film and TV. For clarification this list will focus on the characters, and not the actors who played them. I omitted two just because everyone knows them, John Shaft originally played by Richard Roundtree and later Uncle Samuel L. Jackson. And my boy the one and only Bruce Leroy. Now that's all out the way, let's get into the list.

10. Blackbelt Jones

Blackbelt Jones was a Blaxploitation era hero. Portrayed by Jim Kelley who was known for starring in Enter The Dragon with Bruce Lee. This local L.A. hero kicked alot of ass protecting his neighborhood and karate school from mobsters.

One of the first depictions of Black martial artists, he paved the way for my guy Bruce Leroy. Zack from Power Rangers, and even the multiple Michael Jai White martial arts characters.

9. John Cutter

In the early-mid 90's Wesley Snipes was everywhere. I previously wrote a blog about his run of action films. Which all started with John Cutter in Passenger 57. A decorated ex-law enforcement agent who has to save the day when a plane is taken over, to release a criminal on board.

This truly is the film and role that made Wesley Snipes an action star.

8. Action Jackson

While Carl Weathers will always be known as Apollo Creed. His second most memorable role was of one Action Jackson. A Detroit detective who gets into some shady union and business dealings.

The film is all 80's muscles and mayhem action. Through its presentation Action Jackson became a legend in the common man action hero lore.

7. B.A. Baracus

Take one of the most unique personalities in entertainment history. Pair him up with a team of ex-military soldiers for hire, and we have B.A. Baracus from the A-Team. A gruff quick tempered fighter. The only thing holding him back from being a total bad-ass, is his fear of flying.

Yet no one would dare try Bad Attitude Baracus more than once. Making him an action hero icon.

6. Morpheus

Morpheus the sage resistance leader within The Matrix. Very stoic and good at holding his composure, he was an excellent leader on the battlefield. And a master combat fighter and marksman.

A central figure in the trio of heroes within the Matrix universe. Morpheus inspired a new generation of stoic philosophical field leaders.

5. Black Dynamite 

First things first, we should have had an entire trilogy of films for Black Dynamite. The 2009 Blaxploitation era spoof and homage film, follows Michael Jai White as a former CIA agent. Bent on cleaning up the streets, after his brother is killer by a new drug.

The movie is funny as hell, Michael Jai White is perfect in the role. And it hits all the right points, Black Dynamite is also a masterful fighter and a ace with the gun in his hand.

4 Robert McCall (The Equalizer)

Robert McCall a former Marine and Intelligence agent, is "retired" and just wants to live his life lowkey and out the way. When he helps out a young lady he has befriended, he lands in the wrath of some mobsters. He then has to show them he's not the one to mess with.

McCall is gentle but ruthless, a walking deadly weapon who plays no games. And he goes on about his business, making him a action icon.

3 Roger Martaugh

Roger Martaugh always remarked how he was "too old for this shit", now I completely understand what he meant. He just wanted to go home, and retire. With a loose cannon like Riggs by his side, it wasn't easy.

Martaugh was the perfect everyman action hero, a family man who could still jump into the thick of things when needed. If he was gonna end up sore as hell the next day.

2 Axel Foley

Eddie Murphy may not have started the quick thinking, wisecracking cop character is Axel Foley. What he did do though is absolutely perfect it, so much he influenced future wisecracking cop roles (Det. James Carter).

Axel Foley is just a regular street cop from Detroit, that somehow always finds his way back to Beverly Hills. To tear that city up, scheme a little, and save the day before heading back home usually with just a little scratch.

1 Mike Lowrey & Marcus Burnett 

Miami PD detectives and best friends family man Marcus Burnett and Romeo adrenaline junkie Mike Lowrey. Two bickering buddies that went from a shootout here and there, to full assault weapon battles over the course of four films.

Displaying apprehension, fear, a will to get out alive, and through out all the battles still bickering. Common cops trying to take down local crime who become action heroes. Since 1995 they've set the standard for cop duos.

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5 Valentines Day Horror Movies You May Have Missed

 

Valentine's Day is a "holiday" meant to celebrate love for a significant other. There are several romantic films released this time of year celebrating the season. As we know love can be dangerous, and for all the romantic films to warm your heart.

 There are films out there to warn about the dangerous side of love. Namely horror films, and in this article I'm going to touch on some Valentines day films you may have missed. 

Cupid

An independent film currently available on Tubi. This 2020 film follows a teenage girl who must contend with bullies and mean girls at her school. When one bullying incident goes overboard, she uses her witches powers to summon Cupid. Well this Cupid hates Valentine's Day and goes on a warpath 

Valentine

This 2001 film starred David Boreaneaz of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Angel, and later Bones fame. Follows a stalker who is seems to be out for revenge, against some young ladies  who wronged him during his high school years. This movie flew under the radar upon its release, and still is not that well known. Its by no means a game changing horror movie, but it's serviceable.

It is available on Tubi.

My Bloody Galentine

This 2024 Tubi original is a horror film in a sense, but its more of a horror comedy with some over the topness camp thrown in. It follows three young ladies who endure many ladies V-day fear, getting dumped before the holiday. While basking in their sorrow and deciding to celebrate their Galentines. They opt to get back at their exe's, with no ill intentions at heart. They get a little shook up when things get deadly 

My Valentine

Once upon a time, Hulu had an anthology film series produced by Blumhouse called Into The Dark. With each film focusing on a holiday, and it ran for two seasons. In 2020 the series produced My Valentine. The plot follows a pop singer who has basically her entire music and image stolen from her ex, in favor of his new girlfriend making her way in the industry.

When the three get locked into a concert venue together, some blood gotta be shed.

Heart Eyes

Released last February this hidden gem, could one day be a new era classic. Ok, I maybe jumping the gun there; but it's one of the better horror films so far this decade. It follows a serial killer who hunts couples every Valentines day. When the killer mistakes two colleagues as a couple and goes on the prowl. They just maybe time enough for him.

The movie has some legitimate scares and laughs. And worth a viewing, it is currently available on Netflix.

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13 Songs I Love Because Of A Movie

It's February which means it's Black History Month, we just need to brave the cold for a few more weeks, and for the romantic types Valentines Day is next week. In true B fashion, I decided to get into the spirit as I know how. I'm going to focus on songs I love, because it was in a movie.

When the right song is inserted in a scene or the credits of a film. And it is edited just right, it leaves a lasting impression on audiences. Who back in the day may have went and bought the artist album or soundtrack. Now they stream it, but in any case the right song in a movie can have a powerful effect. Here are 13 (I know, 13?) Of my favorites.

13 Charlie Sexton- Beats So Lonely

1987's Some Kind Of Wonderful is John Hughes subtle f-u to Paramount who interfered in the ending of his 1986 film Pretty In Pink. Kind of funny since both films were distributed by Paramount. History lesson aside.

The ending climax at the party is amplified by the background song of Charlie Sexton's Beat's So Lonely. A guitar riff is edited perfectly to a sub character entering the party, to save the day. That slight moment with the perfectly edited song makes this scene so bad ass.

12 Billy Idol-Rebel Yell

Before the days of high speed internet and YouTube. I can remember recording these scene from 1985's Legend Of Billie Jean and playing it over and over again. All because of Billy Idol's Rebel Yell, which fits the tone of the movie. As well as make the mall chase a highlight of the film.

11. Soho-Nuthin' On My Mind

1990's Career Opportunities starring Frank Whaley and Jennifer Connelly, is one of John Hughes most underrated films. It follows a overnight sanitation worker for Target who is locked in overnight with the town beauty who has ran away.

This scene featuring Frank Whaley as Jim in his own world, doing a little jingle to Soho's Nuthin' On My Mind. The song is so smooth and soothing, and it relaxes me when I hear it.

10. Blink 182 Dammit

1998's high school party drama Can't Hardly Wait, does not get the proper love and respect it deserves as a teen classic almost 30 years later. Which is such a shame, because it is one of the best teen films ever.

This YouTube clip is not from the movie, but a collection of scenes from the movie. The song Damnnit by Blink 182, is played during a chaotic scene in the movie which fits the headbanging sound of the song.

9.Semisonic-closing time

I heard Semisonic's Closing Time several times; before it appeared in 2011's Friends With Benefits. It didn't enter the stratosphere as a favorite of mine until it appeared in the film. The flash mob scene along with Justin Timberlake's character realizing the error of his ways, with his relationship with Mila Kunis. 

It just all worked and the scene probably wouldnt have been the perfect ending, if a different song was used.

8 Go West-King Of Wishful Thinking

1990's romantic comedy classic Pretty Woman starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Set's the tone at the very beginning of the film, that this will be a fun film. Kicking off the opening credits after a brief cold open, with Go West King Of Wishful Thinking. 

The tune while actually sad when listening to the lyrics. Evokes a sense of optimism and is ear candy.

7 RedBone-Come And Get Your Love

When RedBone's Come And Get Your Love kicked off the beat of the story, for 2014's Guardians Of The Galaxy. It showed that this wasn't a typical MCU film, and it introduced the song to a entire new generation. Many who upon hearing it said things like "damn, I like this song".

Another song that I heard before, but did not appreciate it until I saw it playing on the big screen. While Chris Pratt as Star Lord boogied his way through space.

6 Robbie Robb-In Time

One of my favorite time travel films, 1989's Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure had a chokehold on me since I was a kid. This pivotal scene in the movie, where the duo get a glimpse of how important they are to history just sends chills up my spine.

Ok, I may have been hyperbolic there but I do love the scene and song. I've never heard of Robbie Robb outside of this song but to me it as a triple platinum classic. Especially when it pops up on my playlists.

5 Stephanie Mills-I Just Want Love

This song frustrates me, sung by the legendary Stepanie Mills for a very underrated film. 1991's Strictly Business starring Tommy Davidson, Halle Berry, and Joseph C. Phillips (The Cosby Show). If you need proof how much I love this movie, here you go.

This Stephanie Mills new jack swing inspired song is my jam. It perfectly captures the vibe of love, the 90's culture and the end of the movie. Yet, its not available on ANY streaming platform.

4 Peter Gabriel-In Your Eyes

One of the most famous and often copied scenes in film history, is from 1989's Say Anything. The scene in question is John Cusack standing outside his girlfriends home with a boombox over his head. The song playing is Peter Gabriel's Your Eyes. A true love ballad if I ever heard one.

When it comes on my Amazon music or even Sirius XM 80's on 80. Even though I can't sing I harmonize to the melody perfectly.

3 Samm Henshaw-Church

2020's Charm City Kings starring rapper Meek Mill, and Baltimore dirt bike legend Chino Braxton. Follows a young teen who comes of age over the summer, as he aspires to join a legendary Baltimore dirt bike crew. The film introduced me to a song, that inspires me when I need some optimism.

Samm Hensaw's Church, which I will admit I hadn't heard of the artist or the song before seeing the film. Now it's one of my favorite songs thanks to the movie.

2 Simple Minds-Don't you forget about me

Come on? You didn't think I would make a list about song's in movies I love, and not include this one. Don't You (Forget About Me) by Simple Mind's is the perfect 80's teenage song. It captures the teenage angst with the New Wave pop sound dominate during that era.

Playing over the end credits with Judd Nelson's Bender raising his fist in the air, is just legendary. It's another jam I have on my playlist and when it comes on 80's on 8. I am not changing the station until the last note is played 

1. Righteous Brothers-you'e Lost That Loving Feeling

I first saw Top Gun when I was around 10 years old on basic cable. I think it was TBS Dinner And A Movie, which is how I saw The Breakfast Club for the first time as well. To be honest I never paid the song by The Righteous Brothers any mind at all. Until I got older and understood the message of the song and how those guys were crying for love.

Then I watched the movie again, and the end credits. And if maybe the greatest edit of a song to the epilog. As The Brothers sing their hearts out, the cast is individually credited and somehow it all just works. Its an art in itself and I love the song because of it.

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January 31st Entertainment Anniversaries

Today is my 40th anniversary and typical fashion true to me. I decided to sort through the history books and see what landmark events, happened in the entertainment world on this day. 

1986

Down and out In Beverly Hills starred Richard Dreyfuss, Bette Midler, and Nick Notle turns 40 today. It follows a homeless man taken in by a rich family and turns their lives upside down. The film was a hit and even spawned a TV series a year later.

1988

The Wonder Years debuted on ABC network following Super Bowl XXII. The successful coming of age series starring Fred Savage ran until 1993.

1992

Capitol Critters was a smart adult oriented cartoon series that debuted on ABC. It followed a band of rats who resided in the basement of the White House. It sadly didnt capture a audience and was cancelled after 13 episodes. It gained a brief second life on Cartoon Network during its early years, but has disappeared to the land of time.

1993

Homicide Life On The Streets debuted on NBC in 1993. The long running cop drama based in my hometown of Baltimore ran until 1999. It also spawned a TV movie in 2000 and is still beloved today.

1997

In 1997 as technology was advancing, the Star Wars Special Edition released. This polarizing film updated the CGI and scenes that just were not possible when the original was released in 1977. It was essentially George Lucas remixing his film and peeps were not happy.

Over in the video game world, Final Fantasy VII released on the original Playstation. This highly acclaimed edition of the Final Fantasy series, was regarded for its story and cutting edge graphics (for its time).

1998

HBO's original film GIA starring Angelina Jolie debuted in 1998. Based on the true story of one of the first supermodel's Gia Carangi. Detailing his rise and descent in the industry.

1999

Seth McFarlane's long running and influential animated series Family Guy debuted on Fox in 1999. Following Super Bowl XXXIII where the Denver Broncos defeated the Atlanta Falcons. The series is still kicking and has produced two spin-offs and several specials, while gaining a hold on pop culture.

2000

Monday Night Raw the shocking WWF debut of Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, and Perry Saturn. Who all had just abruptly left WCW made an immediate impact. First appearing in the front row, then laying out D-X.

2003

The cult classic Biker Boyz Premeiered in Theaters. Highlighting motorcycle clubs particularly Black motorcycle clubs and motorists. With a focus on father and sons and how generations do things differently to get the same goal.

Final Destination 2 probably the most debatable film in the series, with whether its truly good or not was released. Continuing the story of cheating death and how it doesn't work out in the end.

The Recruit was a spy thriller starring Al Pacino and Colin Farrell. Farrell plays a new CIA recruit training at their "farm" and trying to find answers about his father's death. He spirals deep into places he didnt plan to.

2011

Lie to Me a TV dramas starring Tim Roth aired its final episode on Fox. Ending a three year run for the show, which followed Roth as a investigator alongside his crew helping solve cases through applied psychology.

2012

Comedy Central's second greatest sketch comedy show debuted on the network in 2012. Key & Peele ran for 5 years, and was just as funny and influential as The Chappelle Show. Leaving a legacy of skits still referenced today.

2013

NBC's long running and successful sitcom based on SNL, 30 Rock aired its Series Finale after a 7 season run. 

2014

This hidden gem romantic comedy starring Zac Efron, Michael B. Jordan, and Miles Teller released in 2014. Following 3 friends navigating different stages of relationships in their twenties.

2020

One of Netflix's earliest animated hits Bojack Horsemen aired its series finale in 2020. Ending its 6 season run on the network, and letting audiences know Netflix could tackle the adult animated series world.

A fantasy horror film based on the fairy tale Hansel & Gretel. This film follows the siblings as they get lost in the woods and head to the evil witches house. It didn't fare too well when it released, but has gained a cult following since.

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