Back in the late 80's-early 90's an athletic competition game show called American Gladiators, took the syndicated and world in general by storm. Featuring everyman contenders against physical specimens, it became a pop culture phenom. Having toys , video games , hell maybe even cereal. I remember faithfully watching the show during reruns on the USA network.
Well after a previous attempt at rebooting the series back in 2008 on NBC. Amazon decided to revisit the well and introduce it to a new generation. They probably should have kept it in the vault honestly.
The new version is over produced but lacks substance. Sure the action is in high definition and entertaining enough, and The Miz and Rocsi Diaz are serviceable hosts. However, nothing else really sticks. The editing of each episode is quite dizzying, and I often questioned if audience members were actually there.
The idea of a one man commentator in Chris Rose was asinine. He does the best he can but the editing just makes his commentary off. And again, despite the above photo showing him in the studio, I often questioned if he was truly there during taping.
My last gripe is the cast of Gladiators. Featuring five current or former pro wrestlers in Bull (Rick Boogz in WWE). Fang (Wardlow in AEW), Hurricane (Kamille in AEW), Supernova (J-Rod), and Steel (Jesse Godderz). Yet none of them display larger than life personalities here.
In fact we know very little about the gladiators. They don't stand out like the original cast, and really show nothing that makes them stand out from one another. The competitiors are there for the audience to relate to, but the gladiators should be the true stars of the show.
If there is a season 2, I hope there is more focus on the gladiators. As well as more of an emphasis on a more "gritty" tone and not so stylized for a battle. That's just my two cents though.
After a couple days of dodging social media as much as I could, I saw Michael and to me the wait was worth it. Now to be honest I had no intention of writing a review, BUT I've seen several silly reviews. In addition with all the blogs I wrote leading up to the film, I figured I might as well cap it off with a review.
To be honest is it the greatest biopic ever made? No it's not, the film falls victim to the biopic trap of rushing through timelines. What it is though is an brisk enjoyable 2 hour and 7 minute film on a legendary figure.
Jaafar Jackson did right by his uncle, effortlessly capturing his mannerisms, personality quirks. His naive view of certain things, and his work ethic. He really carried the movie on his shoulders, and made it electric.
While Jaafar carried the film, Colman Domingo stole the show as Joe Jackson. Eerily looking like Joe's doppelganger he drove point A of the plot of the film. A story about a father and a son and the complexities of those relationships. He should get some nominations during awards season for sure. Hell I was scared watching him.
There have been many people talking about the controversies that were left out, to not give MJ a bad name. While there were legal reasons they did not get into that. That is not the purpose of ths story in the film. The second plot in the film of Plot B, is what made Michael..well Michael and influenced his career decisions and creativity early in his solo career.
The original runtime of the film was projected at 4 hours. Then 3 and a half, before settling on the 2 hour runtime. I will say I'm sure they landed on the cutting room floor, but I felt the Motown years were just a drive by. I was looking for more scenes with Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy and Laurie Harrier as Suzanne De Passe. Who greatly influenced his early career.
I wish time was spent covering The Wiz and how he met Quincy Jones on the set. More legal issues that resulted in Diana Ross being cut, likely killed that in the story though
Those story beats and a particular favorite of mine, I wont spoil not being played are my only issues with the film. I definitely plan to go old school and get a physical copy mainly for deleted scenes, when it relases on home media. And I think with time, naysayers will change their tune and the movie will become an all time classic.
Hell I just saw it and am thinking about seeing it again this week.
Note: In celebration of the film I made two Playlist.
Michael the highly anticipated biopic about Michael Jackson officially releases today. While critics have gave their opinion, and it seems like everyone who has seen the movie so far has theirs. I'm seeing the film Sunday, does not spoiling for others exist anymore? Anyway while everyone has their opinions about the film, one thing is true this movie is a celebration.
If you haven't noticed most moviegoers have or will be attending the film in Michael Jackson focused t-shirts or full on costumes. If the storytelling within the film doesn't make it an experience, fans sure will. Between the costumes and social media posts of how we plan to act before, during, and after the movie.
The reason for that is because we are celebrating an icon. Even if we already know his life story from his time in the Jackson 5 to his death. Every ridicule, controversy, and critique the man was and still is iconic. A record breakingn entertainer and showman, he broke down doors at MTV. Turned music videos into movies. Kickstarted the modern day Super Bowl, and was a visionary. Inspired fashion trends throughout the early 80's and early 90's
His last album 2001's Invincible was considered a letdown and was critiqued for what seemed like, MJ not keeping with the times. Yet 25 years later the tide has turned and many consider the album ahead of its time. A testament that the world just needed to catch up with him.
In a time where Black Culture and Black history is being vilified by some, and severly attacked to erase our history. The film while likely unintentional is a reminder that Black History is American history, and much of America's pop culture doesn't exist without artists like MJ.
This weekend turn your favorite MJ song up to reach the sky. Put on some aviators with a sequin jacket, a bad wig, and some white socks with loafers. Can't forget the sequin glove and moonwalk everywhere to celebrate a legend.
Note
I created two Playlist in celebration of MJ. A music version featuring favorites and deep cuts. And a YouTube version of performances.
We are a week away from the highly anticipated release of Michael. The biopic of Michael Jackson, with his nephew Jaafar Jackson portraying him. If you know me, you know MJ is one of my favorite artist. So, while you've been getting ready for the film by listening to your MJ Playlist. Or picking out cosplay costumes, I'm providing some material for your viewing pleasure.
10. The Legend Continues
This documentary originally aired on the Showtime cable network in 1988, and was narrated by one James Earl Jones. It provided some context on MJ's life, creativity, and success of his albums. From his time with the Jackson 5 up to his BAD album.
From 1986 to 1998 MJ had a theme park ride/experience at Disney theme parks. Featuring a short film where he played a space pilot leading a motley crew on a mission. The short film was a companion to a theater ride at the parks.
After his death in 2009, Disney revitalized the ride in 2010 as a tribute to the legend. Keeping it in parks until 2015, and the short film magically appeared on YouTube.
8. This Is It
During rehearsals for his planned London run of shows. MJ had everything recorded and documented, so a year after his death. This Is It was released in theaters. Documentinting rehearsal footage with interviews from performance and crew members.
Giving some insight into MJ's creative and artistic drive. How much of a perfectionist he was on stage, and some subtle clues about his health before his death.
Since the biopic debuts this month, you gotta pay on any streaming app if you wanna see this one.
7. Ghosts
Ghosts is a short film and dare I say spiritual continuation of Thriller. It has become a Halloween staple in my household. Originally conceived as a short film to accompany and incorporate parts of 1993's Addams FamilyValues.
That plan was dropped and the short was released in 1996. Following a angry town mob led by The Mayor (played by Jackson), intent on kicking the Maestro (also played by Jackson). Out of his home and the town, well The Maestro has other plans.
Interesred in seeing it YouTube is your friend here
6. Michael Jackson's Journey From Motown To Off The Wall
This 2016 documentary directed by Spike Lee (who directed They Don't Really Care About Us music video, and Bad25 documentary). Focuses on the creation and impact of Michael's debut solo album Off The Wall. Featuring interviews by those who worked alongside Jackson and who were inspired by him.
Sadly this isn't readily available to watch anywhere.
5. Live In Tokyo
Michael Jackson's Bad Tour was a world wide tour which I believe at that time, was the highest grossing tour ever. I first saw the concert around the time of his death, thanks to some downloading from the likes of Frostwire.
Watching this concert, if you never saw a MJ performance before. Would show you why he was so captivating and one of the greats. He gave everything he had each night.
You don't need to download when YouTube has the whole concert, ready to get you dancing.
4. Jacksons: An American Dream
When it comes to TV-movie biopics Jacksons: An American Dream is the creme de la creme. Following the Jackson family story from Joe and Katherine first meeting up to the Victory tour. With a lot of singing, dancing, and drama thrown in.
Released in 1992 on ABC network, it has received non stop airplay over the years on VH1, BET, hell Tubi even had it for a long time. If you havent seen it by now, not sure what to tell you.
3. Live In Buchacrest
I remember seeing this concert on HBO when it debuted in 1992, in support of his Dangerous album. I think it was a Saturday night which usually was reserved for new blockbuster films, HBO was airing for the first time. Just to give you an idea of how much things have changed.
Anyway, much like his Tokyo concert MJ put on for this concert. Adding more effects and energy, and being a few years older I'm not sure how he maintained that energy all the time.
My only gripe is Remember The Time wasnt performed.
If you're ready for some high energy exercise here you go.
2. Michael Jackson 30th Anniversary Celebration
In early September 2001 a two night concert was held to celebrate MJ's 30th anniversary as a solo artist. Counting his song from the 1971 film Ben as his solo debut. CBS aired the concert in November of that year, editing footage from both nights.
It featured modern artists performing hits from his Jackson 5 and solo albums, as a tribute. As well as MJ performing his biggest hits and at the time the fresh single You Rock My World, from his Invincible album. And being on stage performing with his brothers for the first time since the mid 80's.
Again, where would we be as a people without YouTube.
1. Moonwalker
1988's Moonwalker is a very interesting project/film. The first half is a random assortment of short clips and music videos highlighting MJ's popularity, Fandom, tabloid criticism, and much more. While also including clips from music videos from his BAD album.
The later half is a short film which includes the music video for Smooth Criminal as the centerpiece. Jackson is a average guy trying to save children from a local drug dealer played by Joe Pesci. Who has a military style army of henchmen at his disposal. All Jackson has is his dance moves and shooting stars in the sky.
It's actually better than it sounds, and well worth the watch.
You can pay $6 to rent it on Prime, or enjoy it on YouTube
Recently when I went to see Mario Galaxy World, a teaser for Sonic The Hedgehog 4 played. I started thinking about popular game companies/consoles mascots with XBOX having Master Chief from Halo. And I started thinking where is a Crash Bandicoot movie?
It's no secret Hollywood isn't exactly bursting at the seams with fresh ideas. Studios love a good franchise or IP they can squeeze every dime out of. With Playstation being owned by Sony which of course has a film studio. It's time that they tapped into the mascot from the Playstation brand.
Now Crash doesn't have the popularity or story lore as the other mascots. However, the story of a mutated Bandicoot (native to Australia). With the energy of the Tasmania devil, bent on foiling the world domination plans of his creator and nemesis Dr. Neo Cortex. Provides a solid foundation to build on for a feature film.
Although the franchise has released 8 main games with the last being in 2020, and a host of sub games. Crash isnt revered like the other two mascots, but if put in the forefront of people's minds I'm sure his popularity would grow.
Animate the film, flesh out the story more. Embrace the wackiness and playfulness of the franchise. I think there would be prime opportunity to build a film franchise for a new generation.
Like many folks I spent some time this weekend at the movies, watching the new Mario Bros. film. I really enjoyed the film, and despite what the critics think so did many others. The film bought in over $300 million globally, opening weekend.
With that kind of money bringing the Brinks truck to Universal. Any day now there will be an official announcement another one is on the way. Now, Galaxy did a good job of adapting many components of different Mario games over the years. So I'm gonna predict what games may be inspiration for the next major adventure.
Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
So far in the two films, Mario has been on a rescue mission. A new film taking cues from 1992's Super Mario Land 2, could provide a new adventure and direction. It may would need to blend elements with the first Super Mario Land to achieve this mission.
However, the concept of Mario looking to obtain six coins to defeat the villain, could open up a web of good storylines. In taking inspiration from the game, could also be the introduction for Wario into the film universe.
Super Mario Bros. Sunshine
This 2002 Nintendo GameCube game was kind of adapted in the new movie. Bowser Jr. was first introduced in Super Mario Sunshine, and makes his film debut in Galaxy Movie.
The plot of sunshine is perfect for an adaption. The Mario Bros. and crew finally decide to take a vacation at the tropical Isle Delfino. Well the story can go many different ways, but its guaranteed to not be a fun time on the island.
Wario Land
Wario is Mario's second most known antagonist, and depending on how long Universal and Illumination make these films. He's bound to pop up in one. The next film could be that one.
Introducing Wario as the next big bad. His 1994 film followed him searching for treasure, to build his own castle. Not perfect material for a adaption, but the concept of Wario trying to take over something makes the name WarioLand credible. As the brothers try to stop him.
Super Mario Kart
Come on, everyone wants to see Mario and gang in go-karts on the big screen. While I would prefer a plot based around the bros driving go-karts throughout individual planets. I'll settle for a sequence at least being included in a film.
Blend some Fast & Furious style with Mario bros. and it'll be a fun ride.
Luigi Mansion
The Luigi Mansion games is probably the title in the game series, with the most hope for a adaption. Its honestly a pretty straightforward adaption, first released in 2001 on GameCube. The game followe Luigi on a quest to save Mario from a haunted house.
Luigi the more timid of the two has to confront some fears, navigating the mansion to save his brother. Thats the whole movie, make some silly but frightful ghosts. Add Professor E. Gadd into the mix. Some crazy quests in a enormous mansion. And release the film between late summer and early fall to tie into spooky season.
In April of 1991, a little indie comedy that they just don't make anymore was released. Hangin' With TheHomeboys starring John Leguazimo and Doug E. Doug alongside Mario Joyner (known for his work with Chris Rock) and Nestor Serrano (one of those oh I know him actors). Four friends spend a Friday night cruising the streets of NYC, While learning about themselves and friendship.
While showcasing the four friends, the movie touches on life and social commentary. Mario Joyner's Tom just wants to quit his day job and be a full time actor. After a devastating change of plans he reluctantly hangs with his friends. Willie played by Doug E. Doug is a bum with no job, getting it. Everything in his eyes has racism involved.
Vinnie played by Nestor is a old school player. He has multiple woman, lies to them all and himself. As he is a Puerto Rican man trying to pass off as an Italian. And lastly is John Leguizamo's Johnny, a young man with his head in the clouds and all the potential in the world.
Over the course of the night they each learn a bit about themselves. Their friendship and low key the question of are they real friends or associates?
Its a straight forward film that touches on so many points about life. And the older one gets you relate to all the characters in one way or another. The film has a cult following but it's a shame it is not more known or beloved.
Even with all the options between streaming and hanging on by a thread cable, Hollywood for whatever reason cannot produce film similar to this one these days.
ATL turns 20 years old today and really should be a bigger celebration. The 2006 film was a star vehicle for T.I. was in the upper echelon of rappers during this time. You should have seen the film by now, but in case you didnt heres a brief overview. It followed two teenage brothers as they navigate life in their neighborhood in Atlanta. While spending Sunday's at the local skate rink.
ATL as a movie is a couple things for Millennials. It's many Black millennial favorite coming of age film. It's our Juice, House Party, or Boyz n The Hood. The Wood maybe close to it, but ATL takes the lead. It's also the last of the mohicans when it comes to films that unapologetically embody the culture and became a culture. Even following the trope of random cameos that seemed shoehorned in just cause.
Stomp The Yard released a year later maybe..maybe could be in the conversation. However its not a classic or had the impact ATL has.
It weaved so many plot lines effortlessly that Millennials were experiencing at the time. T.I 's Rashad was tryna figure out life beyond high school, and falls in love with New New. New New played by Lauren London is over the top "hood" despite being insanely wealthy. Which is a common trait with wealthy people, more than most folks realize.
Ant gets into the hustle of dealing drugs. While Rashads best friend Esquire is tryna build his connections for college and get out the hood. It covers love, brotherhood, friendship, the 2000s hip hop and fashion culture, and roller skating. A huge pastime in the Atlanta area.
The movie is also Hella quotable. This one scene has like 4 or 5 quotable scenes by itself. Outkast rapper Big Boi stole every scene he was in by the way. While I wish the film had a official soundtrack to accompany the film, T.I. released his fourth album King days before the film released. Basically that was the films soundtrack.
While boomers have their Cooley High or Gen X have the films I mentioned earlier in addition to Crooklyn, Clueless, or American Pie. We will pass ATL down to our kids like a family heirloom.
In 1991 legendary filmmaker Robert Townsend crafted a movie that has stood the test of time, The Five Heartbeats. Loosely based on the r&b group The Dells. The film is a love letter to the Motown sound era of the 1960's.
With original songs that are bonafide hits like Nothing But Love, Nights Like This, Back in the middle, and Just In Case. You felt these songs in your soul, much like real songs from that era. In fact the music is so good in the film, many people thought the group was real. I know for a time I did, and compared the film to legendary biopics like The Jackson's and The Temptations.
Besides great music, the film also has iconic lines such as the "nine to five" quote. Which years later was obviously a sign on how some record executives truly get down. Alongside the ever present story of fame, success, jealousy, downfalls, reunions and redemption.
The film had an accompanying soundtrack, remember them? That people played like it was an actual album. I can attest I have songs from the movie in my oldies Playlist on Prime music. Everytime they come on I sing at the top of my lungs like I lived in that era.
Between the film and the music, along with how it has spanned generations since its debut. The Five Heartbeats are the greatest fictional music group ever.
I recently finally finished watching Peacock's The Burbs. The TV adaption of the beloved 1989 comedy starring Tom Hanks and Carrie Fish. While I had some issues with the ending of the season I liked the show overall. I started thinking about other treasure troves in the Universal library.
Whether we like it or not, Hollywood is always going to dig into the vault and revive something. Either to tap into nostalgia or hope a new generation falls in love with the intellectual property. Especially with the need to differente streaming services, and offer programming exclusive to the respective platform.
Incredible Shrinking Woman
This 1981 film starred Lily Tomlin as a housewife who came in contact with some strange chemicals. The chemicals caused her to shrink gaining her media coverage and eventually into the clutches of some harmful folks.
Overdue for a reboot of some sorts, I think a peacock original series would do the trick. Over a span of 8-10 episodes this story could touch on social media and new age celebrities. Modern housewives and marriage dynamics and so much more.
Nurse Betty
Nurse Betty is a 2000 comedy starring Renee Zellweger, Morgan Freeman, and Chris Rock. Zellweger plays a mid-western woman who upon seeing her husband murdered, enters into a fugue state. She then embarks on a road trip to LA believing she is meeting her boyfriend.
Only her boyfriend is a fictional character from a soap opera. Meanwhile some hitman are on her tail.
Perfect fodder a series in the 2020s.
The Money Pit
Another Tom Hanks film that has potential as a peacock original. Hanks and Shelley Long starred in the 1986 comedy as a young couple who purchase their first home. A multi million dollar estate they obtain for a modest price.
Upon getting the keys, everything begins to fall apart in the house. And the renovation process drags on, testing their relationship.
A modern take on this film could include the growing popularity of DIY via YouTube and social media. The beaurauracy of the permit process for home renovations. And so much more.
Not sure why this hasnt been greenlit already.
Smokin' Aces
This 2007 film was an enjoyable action film. It followed a series of professional assassins, all vying for the bounty on a target. A wanna be criminal who has agreed to work with law enforcement and turn in a mob boss.
Each group of assassins were different and bought unique skillsets to the job. Their histories were briefly touched on in the film, but could be explored more in depth in a series.
Along with keeping with the premise of there being one target...could make for a fun ride.
Batteries Not Included
This 1987 film follows a group of neighbors in a apartment building, primed for takeover and revitalized by developers. However the tenants stand their ground, and are soon aided by some mysterious little gadgets from space to fight back.
A reboot in this day and age is prime material. Not only did the original film have heart, it also laid a foundation of topics for a reboot to touch on. Gentrification, the expanding net between the haves and the the have nots. And community and coming together when needed. Among other topics.
This film is probably the one I'd love to see a reboot of the most.
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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