Andy Frith is back with part 2 to his Indie film” Dirty Money”
Independent filmmaker Andy Frith is back with a new film and its the part 2 to his last film “Dirty Money“.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOouzhbs8u8
Dirty Money 2 is the revealing visual emotional travelogue of 2 fifty pound notes.
Then you have got to watch “Dirty Money” and experience the emotional high’s & lows of the energy of money.
Dirty Money is an entertaining & thoughtful visual biography of the life and power of money and man’s daily influences through it.
Dirty Money 2
DIRTY MONEY 2: An urban drama about two fifty pound notes that interact with a group of hustlers in the heart of south east london.
Written & Directed by Andy Frith
CHECK-OUT www.2daysinsouthlondon.com
Purchase a copy of “Dirty Money” NOW for only £4.99
Call Kush on: 07961 977 749
Seasons Greetings – Free Personal Development Gift & 2011
Greetings My Dear Friends, Subscribers & Supporters,
Merry Xmas and Happy Kwaanza to you all – May you be blessed and gain every bit of success and happiness you can find in 2011.
I first would like to really say Thank You for all the support we received this year, it was another trying year just trying to make a living in the UK film industry, and without your support we wouldn’t have been able to keep doing what we do best – creating a unique platform for black filmmakers and providing you with an alternative way of relaxing and watching the best International black films.
I would also like to apologies for the frustrated comments I made in my last email to our database. This was when a new email system we were trying out somehow became infected with a virus. When people started to complain about getting numerous emails created by the virus, I made comments about taking this as an opportunity to clean up some of the “deadwood” on my database. Yes I had planned to clean up our database (as all good businesses should do; every 3 years or so), because the true fact was, there were quite a few people on our database that appeared to not be too interested in our events and no longer came out or supported our work. Through a number of other things and then the virus attack, I got a bit frustrated and my cheeky side (or as some would say facety-side) came out, and people who know me, know I can be a bit straightforward and direct to the point sometimes. Which I can say hasn’t always harmed me – I know from past feedback a lot of people even appreciate me been straightforward and honest with my thoughts, but I also understand there are those that don’t appreciate it.
In a way I will always speak my mind – but I do understand we are all different and some will take offence to certain comments and more so especially in how they are said – So Please Accept My Personal Apology! (Feel free to send me back any comments – info@kushfilms.com)
What’s Next – 2011 & Beyond
In the context of everyday life in the UK, I suppose things were not great for a lot of people in 2010. The one thing I have learnt this year is, what really matters is my own personal happiness, and for me to truly be happy, I have learnt that I only have to banish all surrounding negativity, imagined fears and have unwavering belief in myself and the opportunities abound to me. Then I turn my mind towards been grateful for life as it is and been happy and “hey presto” happiness manifests.
I have learnt to not let exterior forces like: elements in the bias UK film industry, money, bills, friends, family and the Cam-Clegg (“Con-dem”) government influence how I feel, move or react to everyday life – in the past things used to be different and I would let things like these influence my thought patterns and dictate how I felt & moved – not anymore!
I have fully grasped the fact: I AM THE MASTER OF MY OWN DESTINY & SO ARE YOU!
It’s all about the mindset, learning to understand the mind, eradicating negative beliefs and manipulating your thoughts should be everyone’s clear daily objective; for only then, will you truly have control over your own happiness and ultimate destiny.
So in 2011 my focus shall not be on screening films on a regular basis anymore!
I do still intend to work in the global film industry but on a whole new level, its time to step-up once again and take up the mantle of leading the way for others to follow especially in the field of film distribution, which is where the real control & power of the film industry is based. Plus as many of you already know I want to travel – meet new people and reach out to a much more global audience. If I can spend 5-7 months out of the UK each year, I will be very happy.
If I can find the right people to takeover and run the film club – then we can look at continuing regular monthly film screenings so long as it’s viable and making a profit!
I have done my full apprenticeship as an Exhibition, Marketing & PR specialist – Its now time to fulfil my long-term ambitions & goals and one of those is to be an International Film Distributor & Producer, with an emphasis on International and be totally in control of own destiny – Unlike other newly started film clubs, Kush will no longer will be at all reliant on UK distributors bringing quality black films to the UK (not that I have been anyway reliant on them over the last 2 years – we have sourced our own quality black films).
MY OWN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Over the last 2 years I have also delved into the field of Personal Development, which includes Mind-Development, Wealth Creation, Universal Well-Being & Abundance. Then over the last year I finally realised that I have a great desire for everything involved with Personal Development and it was my gateway to fulfilment, happiness, success and the opportunity to help others globally as I have always wanted to do – hence the creation of Kush right from the beginning.
I now intend to fully take hold of everything I want to truly do in life (the things that make me happy) and explore life to the full. So even though I love to promote & show films and support black filmmakers, in life I never want to stand still (not expand, grow, explore, develop etc). I have now reached that stage in life where I want and need new challenges and I now realise there are so much more other things in life I want to do, especially around helping others, those that really need and want help (i.e. struggling disadvantaged people both young & old in Europe, Africa and other places around the world). To be honest I have lost patience and faith with life here in the UK and the plight of my own people – that’s enough said on that matter!
In the New- Year where, I will be re-launching a newly designed Kush online store retailing as previous DVD films along with new CD’s and Personal Development products.
YOUR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
I will also be looking to help you (if you’re interested) in all matters pertaining to Personal Development including: Mind-Development, Wealth Creation, Financial Freedom & Spiritual Well-being.
I will be launching my new personal development site www.marlonpalmer.com & www.mindwealthdevelopment.com in the New-Year where you will be able to Buy Products, Read & Submit Testimonies, Download Personal Growth Items (like E-Books & MP3 recordings), Buy Internet Income Streams Products, Select and Purchase Life Success Coaching Courses, Watch Motivational Video’s and gain Universal Knowledge from some of the great Personal Development guru’s across the globe.
Some of the speakers, authors and coaches I will feature is: Napoleon Hill, Earl Nightingale, Bob Procter, Brian Tracy, John Assaraf, Anthony Robbins, Joe McClendon, Les Brown, Wayne Dyer, Joe Vitale, Deepak Chopra, Dr. John DeMartini, Jack Canfield, Dr Maxwell Maltz & Dan Kennedy, Dr, Rev Michael Beckwith, Dr Robert Anthony, Barefoot Doctor, Aine Belton and many others.
From studying personal development techniques over the last 2 years I have realised that for you to truly succeed in changing your life, you first and foremost NEED TO CHANGE YOUR MIND!
If you are finding aspects of life difficult – then remember it was your mind that created the environment you are in and it’s your mind that can change life for you completely!
Whatever is happening in your life you have to take full responsibility for it – own it and then you will be able to start dealing with it – ignore it and it will grow and fester into all aspects of your life!
A lot of people make the mistake of trying to change undesirable things in their life, make lots of money, get better health etc, but they attempt to do this by quick-fixes like spending money to purchase products that purport to teach you how to gain these things – without realising that FIRST & FOREMOST FOR YOU TO CHANGE – YOU MUST CHANGE YOUR THOUGHT PATTERNS, WHICH INCLUDES LIFE-TIME HABITS & NEGATIVE BELIEFS! (Which many don’t even realise are there, blocking your chance of success).
In my case been African-Caribbean I grew hearing in the house things like: “You can’t have any money because money is hard to come by and doesn’t grow on tree’s”.
“Money is the root of all evil”
“You must go to school, get a good education and work hard for money!”
A lot of us don’t realise how a lot of these things we heard as we grew up have now developed our sub-conscious minds and are part of our underlying belief system – inhibiting you from finding true happiness and success without you even fully realising it.
That’s also why sometimes when you decide to try something new to change things for the better, after a while you give up and revert back to type – this is your sub-conscious belief system reminding you of what you actually believe you can achieve and then creating numerous ready-made excuses to stop you from realising these new goals. You sub-conscious beliefs have been created and built up since you were 5 years old, how do you expect to just all of a sudden start believing you can do this and that without changing how you sub-conscious mind thinks and reacts. You Sub-conscious mind control’s the majority of your behaviour; it helps you to do things without even thinking about it!
Therefore a lot of us live in perpetual PROCRASTINATION and go to our grave’s wishing we had done this or that in life and having regrets.
As Albert Einstein said “You Cannot Solve A Problem With The Same Mind That Created It”.
If I can help you in anyway or if you would like to make comment on anything I have stated or you would like to discus further my venture into the Personal Development field. Please send an email to me at: support@marlonpalmer.com
I am also looking for progressive like-minded people to create our own Mastermind Group, where we can share and engage in: new ideas, knowledge, encouragement, wealth strategies and companionship. This will be an elite group of people that come together on a monthly basis to find the answers to a better more productive & rewarding life.
· Are you happy with just having your head just above water??
· Working hard for money??
· Relationships: that you just put up with?
Then now is the time for change – forget those crappy New-Year’s resolution’s, which are usually forgotten by mid-February – make an inner decision for change and start attracting everything you ever wanted in life! (Well that’s what I am doing – why not join me, lets be a part of that elite group in society that are able to truly enjoy life and help others to break FREE from the rat race.)
DO YOU WANT A BETTER LIFE IN 2011?
Then Buy A Great Personal Development Product Now Helping to Prepare You Or A Family Member For 2011.
You can treat yourself or family member NOW to one of the featured Personal Development products below, which I have personally selected from Nightingale Conant (the leaders in Personal Development products) one of my new partners.
You can also go to www.iluvblackfilms.com home page and click on the Nightingale Conant web banner to gain access to an assortment of great Personal Development products including: CD’s, DVD, MP3’s, Books and more helping you prepare the way ready for 2011.
Thanks for your time – best wishes Marlon Palmer
Choose from one of the products below by clicking on the image.
The Secrets to Manifesting Your Destiny
62 Free Ways to Grow Your Business Profits
How to Retire Rich
Creating Your Ultimate Destiny By Robert Stuberg
The Secret By Rhonda Byrne
Ask and It is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires By Esther and Jerry Hicks
The Law of Attraction By Esther and Jerry Hicks
Multiple Wealth Income Streams System By Robert G. Allen
Action Strategies for Personal Achievement By Brian Tracy
Yes, You Can Sing By Pepi Lemer
The Dale Carnegie Leadership Mastery Course By Dale Carnegie Training
I hope you find something above that you like, which will help you move forward in life in 2011 – For “What your mind can conceive and believe, you can achieve!”
Here is my FREE GIFT to you also – click this link and get your free e-book copy of Mind Beliefs.
Marlon Palmer
The Lions Gate Watch – Respect Is Due, Where Respect Is Due!
The “Lions Gate” Watch
Diary Of A Tired Black Film Promoter – Continued
Greetings & Good Day My Friends, Supporters & Patrons.
I hope at this moment life for you feel’s good and your eyes are set firmly on your goals and objectives!
As some of you will know I have recently been venting my frustrations at Lions Gate Films (who are releasing the Tyler Perry films here in the UK) and the industry as a whole regarding the lack of opportunities and fair treatment for black led companies in the UK’s film industry.
Well, I can now inform you that after my initial consternation regarding Lions Gate Films the big CEO and Mr. Christopher Bailey (head of Theatrical) have heard my cry out and responded favourably to a direct letter sent to the CEO (if you want results you go to the top).
They also saw my complaints on the website and have made good and remunerated me for my submitted proposals and addressed the confusion I encountered when dealing with their marketing team.
And as the professional and fair people the management are, they have also granted Kush the permission to screen the Tyler Perry film “Madea’s Family Reunion” on Sunday 19th September (5.00 pm).
In regards to supporting the Tyler Perry releases on DVD and at the cinema, as you already know we have waited a long time for these titles to be released here in the UK, finally they are here and I hope you all put your hands in your pockets and purses and financially support the UK release of these films. This will in return encourage Lions Gate Films UK to release all the other Tyler Perry films here in the UK, especially as they have already done so well on release in the US.
As they say: All’s well, that ends well!
A Message from Tyler Perry!
A Message from Tyler Perry – Thank You!
Hey there, I know it has been a while, sorry.
A few things I must say to you. First off, thanks for making FOR COLORED GIRLS the number one DVD last week, almost a million sold. How great! We do so appreciate it. Also, I want to say thanks for the 19 NAACP image award nominations, these women so deserve the acknowledgment.
The performances in this film cannot be beat. I have to tell you, after doing such a heavy movie I ran to Madea. I mean ran. I NEEDED a LAUGH. I hope you saw the teaser trailer by now. Madea on Maury how silly is that? LOL…thinking about it. I can’t wait for you to see it. With so much going on in the world, I tell you if I didn’t laugh and pray, I would want to lie down and give up. I can’t wait for you to laugh with me on this one.
You may have heard about this story back in December. I didn’t talk about it then, but this is what happened. I was lying in bed watching the local news here in town and I saw a story about an 88-year-old woman whose house had burned down a week before Christmas. What blew my mind about this woman is that she was not only almost 90, but she was raising seven great grandchildren. Now look here, I know some grandmothers at 40, who wouldn’t raise one grandchild, let alone 7. LOL. Anyway, I was just moved by what she said on the news, she wasn’t worried about anything other than being able to keep her “babies”, as she called them, together. Her love for those kids was apparent. Also, what was apparent from the story is she didn’t have any insurance to rebuild the house; I called the fire chief that was raising money for her, I told him that I would pay to rebuild the home for her and the kids. In the meantime, I would rent and furnish a home and pay all the utilities for her, so she could keep her family together and have a great Christmas. Well, it has been a few months, the new house is underway and the family is very happy. I said all of that to say this to you, on behalf of her, and the hundreds of people who work for me here at the studio, on behalf of all of the people of Haiti that we have given to, on behalf of all of the wells dug in Haiti and in Africa so there could be fresh water, on behalf of the families that are fed and put through school and all of the homeless people that are being fed, thank you! Just know, when you buy a DVD of mine or go to a movie or see a play, you sew into good soil, and good people benefit.
Be Blessed, Tyler
Courtesy of TylerPerry.com
http://www.TylerPerry.com
To respond to this message, please go to
http://www.tylerperry.com/messageboard
*******************************************
Official Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/thetylerperry
Official Twitter Page
http://twitter.com/tylerperry
Official MySpace Page
http://www.myspace.com/thetylerperry
Tyler Perry Is Back With A New Madea Movie
US sensation Tyler Perry
is back with his latest “Madea” movie
MADEA’S BIG HAPPY FAMILY
Here is a sneak preview of the new US trailer courtesy
of Tyler Perry himself.
Click Here
The film is about to be released in the US and hopefully will be released in the UK sometime later this year.
We will keep you updated
Voluntary Staff – Needed To Help Out At The Kush Film Club
Kush is looking for voluntary members of staff to assist at Kush Film Club Screenings currently taking place at The Manor Club, 277 Seven Sisters rd, London, N4 2DE.
We are looking for confident, outgoing, professional young people to fill these positions:
2x Customers Service Personnel (ushering / mailing lists, customer queries etc).
Event Organiser / Team Leader (take lead in implementing new ideas, manage events).
Host (host film club – introduce films & other activities / conduct Q &A’s).
These will lead to paid positions once applicants have proved their competence & reliability over a 6-month period) and the film club is financially viable.
There will also be lots of others benefits like; Event Organising, Build a strong International film industry contacts lists, Learn the art of film exhibition, Meet celebrities, Bring independent black films to new audiences, Using film to engage & educate other young people within the local community. Gain a basic foundation in Film Marketing & PR, Learn the pitfalls of the UK film industry plus lots more.
It is hoped that we can encourage and train more young people to get into the field of Film Marketing & Exhibition and some of these will eventually take over the running of the Kush Film Club or start new branches themselves stemming from the foundations we have laid over the last 12 years.
Its time for a new generation to take over!
All interested parties please call: 07961 977 749
Thank you
Marlon Blog’s – July 2010
Happy Summer everyone, I hope its hot enough for ya!,
I would like to apologies for my lengthy absence in writing a new blog.
2010 has been a very trying year for me with serious thoughts of getting out of the UK and seeking pastures anew, I have finally made up my mind I do need a new challenge in my life and would like to see what opportunities are available to me elsewhere.
I can only see things getting worse economically here in the UK; especially within the black community as a whole. But that’s not the main reason for wanting to be away from the UK for most of the year, I mainly want to be able to help and provide a service to others elsewhere and right now Africa is very appealing to me – where in Africa is another story – I have decided to let “The Almighty Father” guide me.
All I know is I am out of here in 2011 on a new adventure in life, making the most of the life I have left; whatever that may be?
I don’t believe I will be missing much here anyway, it almost feels like I have done it all here, plus there is no steady work, with hardly any new black films been released here anymore. Also the industry is now totally fragmented with no big support or comradeship amongst other fellow black film organisations – To me things are worse now for black film organisations & filmmakers than when I first started in 1998 (anyone says anything else is having delusions).
This is mainly why I haven’t written a blog over the last 2 months plus I have been dedicating time to sorting out my own personal life. Something I haven’t done over the last 12 years, since I started Kush.
Strangely enough the releasing of new black films has suddenly changed for the better over the last 6 months, well; basically from the beginning of this year with the release of the film “Precious”. It didn’t appear as if there would be a sustained flow of new films releases especially since over the last 4-years we have had about 1 new black film release per year, I mean mainstream American black films.
Maybe it was myself not doing the research and probably giving up hope that things would improve; but all of a sudden there has been a rush of new black films, which just suddenly started to be released all starting with Chris Rock’s new film “Death at a Funeral” which followed the earlier release of his comedy documentary “Good Hair, which was first seen in 2009 but just fully released in 2010.
All of a sudden we now have a spate of releases with “Our Family Wedding” and the new Queen Latifah & Common release “Just Wright”, due to be released here shortly.
With these few releases things are looking a bit better, but I have to regress a little, to be able to bring you some GREAT NEWS!
In May of this year I was astonished to belatedly hear that the man himself Mr. Tyler Perry would be here in the UK for the first time with star Janet Jackson at the Brixton Ritzy for a special screening of his new film “Why Did We Get Married Too”.
Mr. Perry was quietly flown in for an undercover press screening of his new film and seating was allocated in short notice, disqualifying most of his true fans from attending the screening and even been aware that the man was going to be here in the UK. Over a couple of days prior to the event the news spread fast but by then all the tickets for the event had gone and seemed to be only given to a lucky few who probably worked for certain companies involved in the marketing-promotion of the event alongside mainstream press.
You know I was vexed, and I mean vex (Jamaican style). For the last 4 years I have been doing everything I can get to get the Tyler Perry bandwagon here in the UK, The man, his films, his plays; the whole lot. I wrote to his distributors on a number of occasions, when I had no luck with that I wrote to his American publicist, I left long letters on the Tyler Perry website and I called his studios in America. The only thing left was for me to go and camp outside his studios and jump on the bonnet of his car as it whizzed out of the studio gates. lol!”
Anyway it looks like my persistence (as usual) has paid off and The Almighty Father must have been watching me – because a few weeks after Tyler Perry 1st coming to the UK I received an email from his distributors who must have remembered the guy causing a nuisance writing them letters over the last 4 years, they invited me to come along to a meeting to discuss the much anticipated release of the Tyler Perry films and brand here in the UK.
All I can say is; you will all soon be able to enjoy viewing and buying Tyler Perry releases here in the UK, as of August 2010. I can tell you “Diary Of A Mad Black Woman, Why Did We Get Married & Madea’s Family Reunion” will be released here just in time for carnival (August 23rd) along with the theatrical (cinema) release of “Why Did We Get Married Too” (September 3rd).
I hope to be bringing to you an exclusive screening of “Why Did We Get Married Too” and also enable you to buy the DVD releases through our website www.iluvblackfilms.com
Your comments would be appreciated – because as I see it this is surely good news and I would like your feedback, which I will pas onto to the film company – for them to see the level of demand here for Tyler Perry films. .
I can only hope and pray that more quality black films are now going to be released here as they were last back in 2005.
Thanks for listening and listen-up for more news coming soon.
Marlon Palmer
9/7/10
The Matrix Revealed
“The Matrix”
Copyright Infringement Case – Black Author wins
This little known story has met a just conclusion, as Sophia Stewart, African-American author of The Matrix will finally receive her just due from the copyright infringement of her original work!!!
A six-year dispute has ended involving Sophia Stewart, the Wachowski Brothers, Joel Silver and Warner Brothers. Stewart’s allegations, involving copyright infringement and racketeering, were received and acknowledged by the Central District of California, Judge Margaret Morrow presiding.
Stewart, a New Yorker who has resided in Salt Lake City for the past five years, will recover damages from the films, The Matrix I, II and III, as well as The Terminator and its sequels. She will soon receive one of the biggest payoffs in the history of Hollywood, as the gross receipts of both films and their sequels total over 2.5 billion dollars.
Stewart filed her case in 1999, after viewing the Matrix, which she felt had been based on her manuscript, ‘The Third Eye,’ copyrighted in 1981. In the mid-eighties Stewart had submitted her manuscript to an ad placed by the Wachowski Brothers, requesting new sci-fi works.
According to court documentation, an FBI investigation discovered that more than thirty minutes had been edited from the original film, in an attempt to avoid penalties for copyright infringement.
The investigation also stated that ‘credible witnesses employed at Warner Brothers came forward, claiming that the executives and lawyers had full knowledge that the work in question did not belong to the Wachowski Brothers.’
These witnesses claimed to have seen Stewart’s original work and that it had been ‘often used during preparation of the motion pictures.’ The defendants tried, on several occasions, to have Stewart’s case dismissed, without success.
Stewart has confronted scepticism on all sides, much of which comes from Matrix fans, which are strangely loyal to the Wachowski Brothers. One on-line forum, entitled Matrix Explained has an entire section devoted to Stewart. Some who have researched her history and writings are open to her story.
Others are suspicious and mocking. ‘It doesn’t bother me,’ said Stewart in a phone interview last week, ‘I always knew what was true.’
Some fans are unaware of the case or they question its legitimacy, due to the fact that it has received little to no media coverage.
Though the case was not made public until October of 2003, Stewart has her own explanation, as quoted at aghettotymz.com:
‘The reason you have not seen any of this in the media is because Warner Brothers parent company is AOL-Time Warner…. this GIANT owns 95 percent of the media… let me give you a clue as to what they own in the media business… New York Times papers/magazines, LA Times papers/magazines, People Magazine, CNN news, Extra, Celebrity Justice, Entertainment Tonight, HBO, New Line Cinema, DreamWorks, Newsweek, Village Roadshow and many, many more!
They are not going to report on themselves. They have been suppressing my case for years.
Fans who have taken Stewart’s allegations seriously, have found eerie mythological parallels, which seem significant in a case that revolves around the highly metaphorical and symbolic Matrix series. Sophia, the Greek goddess of wisdom has been referenced many times in speculation about Stewart.
In one book about the Goddess Sophia, it reads, ‘The black goddess is the mistress of web creation spun in her divine matrix.’
Although there have been outside implications as to racial injustice (Stewart is African American), she does not feel that this is the case.
‘This is all about the Benjamin’s,’ said Stewart. ‘It’s not about money with me. It’s about justice.’
Stewart’s future plans involve a record label, entitled Popsilk Records, and a motion picture production company, All Eyez On Me, in reference to God. ‘I wrote The Third Eye to wake people up, to remind them why God put them here.
There’s more to life than money,’ said Stewart. ‘My whole to the world is about God and good and about choice, about spirituality over ‘technocracy’.’
If Stewart represents spirituality, then she truly has prevailed over the ‘technocracy’ represented in both the Terminator and the Matrix, and now, ironically, by their supposed creators.
Stewart is currently having discussions with CBS about a possible exclusive story and has several media engagements in the near future to nationally publicize her victory. June 13th 2004. Sophia Stewart’s press release read: ‘The Matrix & Terminator movie franchises have made world history and have ultimately changed the way people view movies and how Hollywood does business, yet the real truth about the creator and creation of these films continue to elude the masses because the hidden secret of the matter is
that these films were created and written by a Black woman…a Black woman named Sophia Stewart.
But Hollywood does not want you to know this fact simply because it would change history. Also it would encourage our Black children to realize a dream and that is…nothing is impossible for them to achieve!’ “
Marlon’s Blog – March 2010
Welcome once again to another Kush blog,
Yes, written by me the CEO of Kush, Marlon Palmer.
This is my opportunity to clear my head and get all junk floating around in there out and into the universe, where hopefully some of them can manifest into been (now what I mean?).
Well, where do I start, so far this year it’s been a long hard slog, but now January the month of bills, bills, bills is right behind us, things are looking exciting and blessed even with the continuous cold UK weather.
As some of you will already know Kush Promotions will this year step up what we do best; that’s promoting black & urban films. We are currently seeking to create our own network of community screening venues (purpose built venues & particular indie cinema’s) across London thus creating our own little distribution network enabling us to bring the best of black films to the community in their local areas.
No longer do we have to wait for major distributors to bring quality black films to the UK, no longer do we have to go to them on one knee begging them permission to screen their films, no longer will they use us to promote their films whilst not wanting to pay us adequately to do so, and last but not least; no longer will we be searching for a cinema that will let us in to screen black films there….. A New Time Is Coming – Its Time For Change!
With new digital technology and old distribution models no longer viable, the art of distribution is evolving due to technology, the Internet and social media networks across the globe. Promoting one’ products to a global audience is now much more easier and accessible to others.
It’s about time we did for ourselves and that’s exactly what I intend to do with the intention of creating a path for others in the future to follow.
But I need you the people to clearly ponder on this; we cannot make our endeavours successful if you do not support us. Black people need to realise the significance of what we are trying to do and support us financially & morally by attending screenings and spreading the word about what we are doing – encouraging a respectful, loyal and continuous cultural support right across the UK.
It is also good for me to see others like, Sylviane at Images Of Black Women, Priscilla at Rapture and Cheryl at Adrinka films doing their stuff and creating more access to global black films. I am not sure why there seem to be so few men involved in showcasing black films but my hats off to the women. I just wish though some of them sort to be more financially independent and were not so reliant on Government funding!
Anyway Good luck to them all!
New Screenings & Films
(See evens page for trailers etc)
On Thursday 8th April we officially launch one of the first dedicated black cinema venues in Europe. We are pleased to invite you to the Black Grape Music Venue & Cinema, 268 West Green Rd, Tottenham, London, N15 3QR.
This is where we will be in our element screening black and other urban films 2-3 days per week. We are also now able to repeat film as and when we like, just like a cinema.
We start on Thursday 8th April with the UK premier screening of “See Dick Run” a new crazily funny Romantic comedy from US filmmaker Dwayne Alexander Smith. See Dick Run stars Kel Mitchell from the old American teenage comedy show “Keenan & Kel”.
We expect this film to go down well with young people and people who like comedies like; Friday, I’m Gonna Get You Sucka and the new soon to be released (in UK) “Black Dynamite”.
So make sure you spread the word and help us to get “Bum on Seats” on our opening night!
Below is our line up for April/May 2010
The Kush Film Club at the Black Grape Cinema
268 West Green Rd, Tottenham, London, N15 3QR
Screening Schedule:
See Dick Run
Thursday 8th April 2010 (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)
& Wednesday 14th April
Richard (Kel Mitchell) is a fast-talking ladies man whose life takes a hilarious turn when a voodoo priestess casts a spell that takes away his manhood. His manhood will be lost forever unless he can reverse the spell before midnight. Now, in a race against time, this notoriously deceitful womanizer must revisit all the women in his life he has wronged and apologize for his lowdown ways. Starring Kel Mitchell (“All That”, “Kenan & Kel”) and Page Kennedy (“Weeds”).
Starring: Kel Mitchell, Page Kennedy, Todd Bridges, Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, Chico Benymon, Brooklyn McLinn, Shelli Boone, Heidi Marie Wanser, Trinecia Moore-Pernell
Directed by: Dwayne Alexander Smith
89 mins / 2009 / USA / 15
Disoriented Generation & Q&A with Wil Johnson
Friday 8th April 2010 (8.00pm / Films starts: 9.00pm)
& Thursday 15th April
“Disoriented Generation” is an enthralling new light-hearted comedy/drama which follows the fortunes and misfortunes of Ishmael (WIL JOHNSON) as he tries to keep his life on the emotional roller coaster we call love…
The film, spanning 5 years of Ishmaels life, follows his attempts to stay on track as he navigates through three very different life changing relationships in his quest to find love and the perfect family.
Sharon, Kenisha and Bola are the women who embark on this extraordinary journey with Ishmael and through these people we experience the slings and arrows, the highs and the lows and those rare moments that can truly be called happiness in the eternal search for love…..
Starring: Wil Johnson / 2009 / 89 mins / 15
Directed by Christian Ashaiku
Rebound - The Legend of Earl ‘The Goat‘ Manigault
Wednesday 21st April 2010 (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)
& Wednesday 12th May
Rebound: The Legend of Earl “The Goat” Manigault based on the life of real-life Basketball legend and community activist Earl Manigault. Whose drug addiction destroyed his hopes of a professional basketball career, but who went on to become one of Harlem’s most influential citizens after his recovery from drug abuse.
In this dramatisation much-loved actor ‘Don Cheadle’ gives an amazing performance.
Award winner James Earl Jones also adds life and warmth to this incredible story of a man’s determination to rise above poverty, his mistakes and the hand life has dealt him. His experiences encourage him to help others through sport and enable them to not follow the same perilous path.
This film also sees some truly outstanding performances from Eriq La Salle, Loretta Devine, Michael Beach, Clarence Williams III, Colin Cheadle and Forest Whitaker.
Starring: Don Cheadle, Loretta Devine, Michael Beach, James Earl Jones, Eriq La Salle & Forest Whitaker
HBO / 15 / 90 mins
My Brother
Tuesday 4th May 2010 (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)“My Brother” is an inner city story of two impoverished boys, Isaiah and James. James is developmentally disabled. Their mother, L’Tisha, finds herself in a tragic situation. Dying of tuberculosis, she desperately tries to get her two boys, eight and eleven at the time, adopted into a new home together. Finding that only Isaiah can be adopted. L’Tisha makes the only choice she feels she can make; creating an unbreakable bond of love between the boys, and hoping that bond will get them through life together. Her prayers are eventually answered as the boys overcome impossible odds on their way to adulthood, staying as close as ever as young men dealing with life’s obstacles.
Starring: Vanessa Williams, Tatum O’Neal, Fredro Starr & Nashawn Kearse
Director: Anthony Lover / PG / 2007 / 90 mins / 12
In Prison My Whole Life
Tuesday 25th May (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)
A look at the life of imprisoned political activist and former Black Panther member, Mumia Abu-Jamal, who’s death sentence for killing a police officer was overturned in 2001 due to errors made during his original 1982 sentencing hearing.
Featuring: Mumia Abu Jamal, Snoop Dog, Mos Def, Russell Simmons & William Francome.
Directed by: Marc Evans / 90 mins / 2008 / PG
I’m Through With White Girls!
Wednesday 26th May (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)On a quest to find the perfect woman, Jay Brooks must deal with his commitment issues in order to win his love.
The only black guy in his indie-rock social scene, Jay Brooks (30 going on 21) is witty and opinionated. A storyboard artist by trade, and sci-fi junkie, he is quite the sexual overachiever in his indie rock world. Still, Jay feels unfulfilled as he watches Drake, a high school buddy, preparing for marriage.
Drake Moore, a tall and handsome black lawyer, has Alpha Male credentials, but is nevertheless controlled by his fiancée, J.C. who comes from a high strung, well-to-do family. Drake wants to give J.C. the wedding of her dreams, but he sweats over juggling their families’ economic and class prejudices of one another.
As Jay takes stock of his many failed relationships, he notices a common denominator: all the women were white. Matt, Jay’s best friend and roommate, calls him on blaming his issues on white women, but Jay insists he is right. Jay gives up dating white women “cold turkey,” and goes in search of the perfect “sistah.” Unfortunately, he doesn’t fit the current stereotype of the hip-hop loving, baller from rap videos. Jay crashes and burns with the “sistahs” and, quite by accident, his quest leads him to Catherine, an un-Orthodox black woman.
As Jay’s feelings deepen for Catherine, he must address his commitment issues, the real root of his problems, in order to win her.
Turn Soul Films/USA/89 mins/ 12
Starring: Anthony Montogomery, Ryan Alosio & Lia Johnson
Written by: Courtney Lilly
Funny Valentines
Thursday 13th & Wednesday 19th May (7.00pm / Films starts: 8.00pm)After returning to her hometown to contemplate her troubled marriage, a woman finds renewed hope as she and the cousin with whom she was once best friends slowly reconcile their own fractured relationship.
Cast: Alfre Woodard, Loretta Devine & CCH Pounder
Directed by Julie Dash / 108 mins / 15
Me & Mi Kru (12 part series)
(June 2010)
This celebrated sitcom stars well-known music group the “Innocent Kru”
and centres on their exploits to make it big in the music business. When one of the Kru wins the lottery its time to move out of the ghetto with Mother in-tow and move up-town – what a ting!
Starring Hemsley Morris Jnr, the Innocent Kru, Audrey Hall, Vaz Blackwood, Professor Nuts, Sly & Robbie & Spragga Benz. Directed by Rick Elwood (Dance Hall Queen & One Love).
Running time: 25 mins / 2008 / 12
What Goes Around (UK Premier)
(Date tbc)
Written and Directed by Steve “Tehut-Nine” McAlpin, WHAT GOES AROUND is a twisted tale about male/female relationships, that looks at the issues of infidelity, safe sex and HIV awareness. Denzel a committed one-woman man is accused of cheating and is unexpectedly dumped by his low self-esteem girlfriend, Lucille.
He is devastated and confused and after sharing the news with his brother Sylvester, (an unabashed playboy), who also lost his girlfriend in a sordid affair, they both visit a clinic to get checked out; only to find out that one of them has a curable STD and the other is HIV positive.
Filled with anger and bitterness the HIV infected brother decides to spread the virus to as many women as possible, while the other takes advantage of his brother’s misfortune. Brimming with suspense and drama the film takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride with each character, it will have you feeling sorry for some, angry at others and bracing for the outcome, because in the end, What Goes Around…
Starring: Movado
Written & Directed by Steve “Tehut-Nine” McAlpin / USA / 2009 / 90 mins / 18
Another Kush Exclusive
“The Story Of Lovers Rock” – A Moment in History!
On Tuesday March 16th 2010 Kush presents a special exclusive preview screening of the new film “The Story Of Lovers Rock”. This film is still in production and we need to raise a final amount of £60,000 to finish the film, but we wanted to show interested select Investors and small Donators what we have so far with the hope you will want to be a part of this historic cinematic production and make a donation (Great benefits attached to donations of £250 and larger equity investments).
This is a private event – Invites only!
Do you remember those youthful & loving days in the 70′s & 80′s when British reggae music ruled the world. When Love was abound and girl power ruled? Do you also remember, the afro’s, guys having contests to see who could dance with the most girls, holding on close to your man and rubbing all night long, friends Mum’s or dad’s coming into the dance and grabbing the mic and telling them children to make sure them get home fast, rubbing off the wall paper on the wall? Do you remember the styles & fashion, Gabbici, Farrah slacks, Silk shirts, pleated skirts; oh wow those where the days!
This film features the best of all the Lovers Rock artistes of the daylive in concert and comedic memories from the likes of Rudi Lickwood, Angie Lemar, Glenda Jackson, Wayne “Dibi” Rollins, Eddie Nestor & Robbie Gee.
If you would like to attend this screening on Tuesday 16th March please call Marlon Palmer (Producer) on 07961 977 749
THE STORY OF LOVERS ROCK – Synopsis
Director Menelik Shabazz returns with his first theatrical film in over two decades since the acclaimed film “Burning An Illusion”. His new offering is “The Story Of LOVERS ROCK”.
Lovers Rock was the British made romantic reggae music that defined a generation in the late 1970s and 80s.
Lovers Rock was initially led and defined by female artists whose lyrics reflected the lives and experiences of many black British youths, though not exclusively. Lovers Rock was also about lifestyle, fashion and sensual dance. Close intimate dancing known as a ‘rub-up’, was the initiation into the world of embracing another and the sweetness of youthful love.
Beyond the live performances from the “Kings and Queens of Lovers Rock” we understand how the music was created, the key players and the social backdrop, in the late 70s and 80s. The internal and external dynamics affecting its success and the limited impact on mainstream music.
Underlying this is a portrait of the post Windrush generation. A generation that influenced and transformed British youth and mainstream culture as well as creating it own unique music genre.
Through interviews and comedic reflections we gain insights into an era and generation not seen before on the big screen.
Contributors include: Janet Kay, Denis Bovell, Angie Le Mar, Dr. Lez Henry, Linton K Johnson & Ava Leigh. Comedic touch provide by: Eddie Nestor, Robbie Gee, Wayne Rollins & Glenda Jackson.
Kush: 0800 999 3033 / 07961 977 749 / email: info@kushfilms.com
CHILDREN & ADULT LEVEL 2 DRAMA COURSES
ADULT DRAMA COURSE
COURSE START 15th AND THE 22nd FEBRUARY
6.00pm – 8.00pm
7 WEEKS EVERY MONDAY PUBLIC SPEAKING & DEVISED PERFORMANCE
LEVEL 1,2,3 – GAIN UCAS CREDITS
BOOK NOW TELEPHONE LORNA ON: 07948320299
Course Fee: £50 / Exams £35 to £57
This course is hosted at:
WESTMINSTER KINGSWAY COLLEGE
New Building 211 GRAYS INN ROAD, LONDON
(OPPOSITE EASTMAN DENTAL HOSPITAL)
Nearest Tube Kings Cross
CHILDREN’S COURSES
THE STYLISTERS CHILDREN AND YOUTH
DRAMA COURSE
CONGRATULATES THE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO TOOK THEIR ACTING EXAMS WITH THE LONDON ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND DRAMA 2009
THE AWARD WINNING
CHILDREN COMMUNITY THEATRE GROUP
TRAINING FOR LAMDA QUALIFICATIONS
GROUP PERFORMANCE - DISTINCTION
PUBLIC SPEAKING
WE ARE NOW LOOKING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO PERFORM AT
MILLFIELD THEATRE, Edmonton, CHATSPALACE, Hackney AND AT HACKNEY EMPIRE STUDIOS AND TAKE LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2 IN PUBLIC SPEAKING AND DEVISED PERFORMANCE
NEW MUSICAL FOR 2010
“JESUS – MEETS THE STREET KIDS OF LONDON”
MUM STOP BEING SO ANGRY – I AM YOUR SON
PLUS GET LEVEL 1,2, QUALIFICATIONS IN PUBLIC SPEAKING
New course and rehearsals beginning
Friday 26th FEBRUARY 2010 at Northumberland Park School, London N17 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm
TEL: 07948320299 (LORNA)
Insurance: £10.00 one-off-fee / £5.00 per week
New one-day short courses for Professional Development and Lifestyle available – contact us for details.
100s of courses at Westminster Kingsway College for 14-19, adults and employers.
Click: www.westking.ac.uk, call: 0870 060 9800 or email courseinfo@westking.ac.uk
Marlon’s Blog – January 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR – 2010
Greetings My friends & loyal supporters!
I first would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year and may all of you reading this blog enjoy: Good Health, Happiness, Wealth, Love & Prosperity in 2010.
May you life be abundantly good in this New Year!
Well, where do I start, secondly I should thank everyone that supported Kush in 2009, without you we would not be here now and I surely would have packed my bags and looked for creative satisfaction somewhere other than the UK, so THANK YOU MY BROTHERS & SISTERS.
I really do have to thank you because there are so many brothers & sisters here in the UK that do not support black businesses or even contemplate the sorrowful plight here of black people (whether African or African-Caribbean’s). Its like many of us here in the UK are living in a state of illusion – believing things are better than what they actually are. At the same time I am also aware that many of my brothers & sisters here are totally ignorant of what they can truly be. Too many of us are content with having their head above water and just surviving, whilst everyday on TV they see others prospering and earning wealth they could only dream of – without realising dreams are created; to eventually manifest & become reality!
For as the ancient Egyptians used to say: As You Believe, So Shall You Become!
Live your dreams my Brothers & Sisters, believe and you shall prosper! And remember the more you give; the more you will receive, don’t stop the flow!
Okay, I hope I have inspired at least someone out there to make change and to support his fellow man in one way of another – so on to the film news.
2009 Xmas Film Boutique Screening Event
Our Xmas screening of the excellent film “American Violet” went very well and was well attended with a packed venue. Everyone loved this true-to-life story of one woman’s battle against corrupt elements in the DA’s office in the US state of Texas.
It’s so sad that things like that are still going on in this day and age in the United States the country supposedly leading the way for Democratic reform in the so called Third-world (If you do not know what I am talking about try to see the film or go read up about it).
Unfortunately “American Violet” was never released in the UK theatrically or on DVD, like so many other films made in America each year (will touch on this fact again a bit further down blog).
I am pleased it appears everyone liked the films including the first ever UK screening of the new Jamaican comedy series Me & Mi Kru. We plan to screen the whole series over a 6-week period starting next month, February 2010. We are still not sure of the venue yet this is still been discussed, but as soon as we know you’ll be the next to know.
We plan to organise another small screening of “American Violet” at the end of this month (Jan 10) – check this blog site for further details.
www.iluvblackfilms.com
Our newly re-branded online DVD store site is gradually picking up and we have a small bunch of loyal supporters who are consistently buying their favourite black films and helping us to grow this venture – Thank You!
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD AND TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY ABOUT WWW.ILUVBLACKFILMS.COM.
Four reasons for supporting www.iluvblackfilms.com
- iluvblackfilms.com is unique as one of the very first online e-commerce websites in the UK to specifically provide Europe’s African & African-Caribbean communities with access to mainstream & Independent black films past & present.
- Where else in the UK can you go and purchase your favourite black films (apart from Amazon – as some of you will tell me, still they only have some titles)?
- iluvblackfilms.com is efficient and cost-effective whilst at the same time able to compete on prices with Amazon for many titles. Even though we have just started up and do not have the brand name like Amazon and cannot command the dealers discounts Amazon can (but with your continued support we will gain widespread international awareness in the next 5 years).
- iluvblackfilms.com will preserve selected black films and make them readily available to you and our younger generation. Without a site like iluvblackfilms.com many of our classic and much loved black films will disappear and become hard to find or even become deleted on DVD forever – help us provide this much-needed service and help us preserve black films for the next generation.
Note:
Please do not compare us to Amazon, I am only using them as an example as they are the obvious leaders in the market. Amazon has had a 10 year (if not longer) start on us and it will take many years for us to get anywhere near their size, so please don’t go to Amazon and checkout their prices and then come back to us and say we can get it cheaper on Amazon.
All I would say there is; If you do not realise the significant of what we are trying to achieve along side the symbolic nature of www.iluvblackfilms.com then I wish you all the best and can only hope you one-day realise that without ownership of our own cultural identity we will always be open to other’s manipulation of our place in world history. Hopefully for you it will not only be about the money! Not withstanding that we will always endeavour to be competitive and in most cases more cost-effective than others.
Kush & Kush TV
I am currently looking at the very realistic possibility of launching Kush TV by Summer 2010. Currently in the UK there are no dedicated distribution outlets or public viewing platforms for black films. For many years we have been hearing about diversity on British TV and channels like Channel 4 were going to provide more opportunities etc, etc, etc. 10-15 years later nothing! Absolutely nothing!
This is our opportunity to disseminate quality black programming to a starved public. Our children also NEED positive images of people like themselves to create inspiring role models from.
The funny thing is; and I believe I am correct in saying this; we had more black faces on TV in the 1980’s than we do currently now (please correct me if you think I am wrong?) and they weren’t all murderers & robbers.
As I see it, it is well-overdue time that we stop waiting for others to do for us, isn’t it about time we did for ourselves, and stop walking around with our hands out begging for support. It must be absolutely clear now that support will never truly come. Yeah of course you can get the usual derogatory handout – accompanied by Jump-Through-Hoop regulations. But how will that really help you especially when you go back a second time, to only get a slapped wrist saying naughty boy, you had some already, the pot is small and we have to spread it around to keep you all quite to meet government statistics.
What would happen if we reversed the psychology and instead of waiting for handouts, we went off and did our own thing and created sustainable ventures?
I believe the so-called mainstream hierarchy would take serious interest (not liking to be left out of the picture) and would come to us with offers of support simply to allow them to be apart of the process and get a foothold in our viable market place.
There is no one better to make black films viable than black filmmakers themselves, promoters & the African & African-Caribbean community. We know what we want and how best to give it to us. The mainstream industry is currently walking around saying black films are not viable (that’s why you are no longer seeing mainstream American black films been released in UK cinema’s).
I say it’s not viable for them, for they simply do not know what they are doing and do not understand the black marketplace – that is quite evident to me been 11 years in the film business.
It is amazing to me that multi-talented actor/filmmaker Tyler Perry has released around about 6/7 films with at least 4 of them going to No 1 in America and not one of his films have been released theatrically or on DVD in the UK – WHY IS THIS????
I am currently trying to get access to him, but this is proving very difficult. I have spoken to his distributors in the UK & the US, one of his producers Mr R. Bob, left a long message on Tyler Perry’s blog, called his LA offices, sent a letter to his US publicist, but all to no avail. Maybe Tyler is also been told the UK is not a viable marketplace and his has decided to overlook us. Still I will carry on trying to make contact and hear what he has to say personally!
Since 2005 we have had roughly 3 mainstream American films released here in London (can’t speak for the rest of the country, because a lot of the time distributors do not release films outside of a small select group of main cities): The films were: Dreamgirls, Notorious & Obsession starring Beyonce & Idris Elba – and that’s all I can remember!
So if they are no longer releasing mainstream American black films, what chance is there for UK Independent black filmmakers – weigh that up!
Well, for me “Its Time To Put A Stop To This Lack of Vision” and get jiggy and start doing things for ourselves and that’s why I intend to launch Kush TV bringing to a worldwide audience quality Black British films & lifestyle programming.
We will need all the help we can get with FINANCE, EXPERIENCED & SUPPORT STAFF, and the cooperation of black FILM/TV INDUSTRY PERSONNEL.
So if you would like to support this will-happen venture please give me, Marlon Palmer a call on 07961 977 749. I am especially looking for people who would like to invest in this essential & profitable venture.
Yours support is needed and would be most greatly appreciated.
To make this a permanently sustainable venture we all need to come together, industry, public & Kush!
HELP US TO DO THE RIGHT THING – IT’S A NEW YEAR, ‘IT’S TIME FOR CHANGE!
Thanks for taking the time to read this blog – please send me any comments you have! info@kushfilms.com
Who is the new BA Baracus? New A-Team photo… fool.
Here's the cast for the new A-Team film - Liam Neeson as ‘Hannibal’, Bradley Cooper as ‘Faceman’, Sharlto Copely from ‘District 9’ as ‘Murdoch’ and Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson as BA Baracus
Thanks to the ‘What Would Tyler Durden Do’ blog for the above pic. Loads more here.
The big screen version of ‘the A-Team’ started filming this week in Canada, with Liam Neeson as ‘Hannibal’, Bradley Cooper as ‘Faceman’ and Sharlto Copely from ‘District 9’ as ‘Murdoch’
What everyone really wanted to know though is the identity of the new ‘BA Baracus’?
It’s….. Former Ultimate fighting Champion Quinton Rampage Jackson.
Here he is doing some verbal sparring before a championship fight…
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdTBWodX_vc
Here’s the original Mr T.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyBa0c4nJpM
Can Rampage Jackson cut it? Who would you have rather seen playing BA?
World to go MJ crazy in October
Click here to see the “This Is It” trailer.
Click here to browse Michael Jackson DVDs on the Kush online store.
Fans worldwide will have the opportunity to celebrate the global launch of Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT when Sony Pictures Entertainment hosts over 25 global premieres, with more than 15 of those coordinated simultaneously around the world, on Tuesday October 27.
Simultaneous with the LA Premiere at 6.00pm Tuesday October 27, the London Premiere will take place at 1am Wednesday October 28 at the Odeon Cinema Leicester Square.
Following the London Premiere event, UK audiences will be able to see the highly anticipated film for the first time when the film opens to the public from 4.00am on Wednesday October 28.
Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT will be in cinemas worldwide for a limited two-week run beginning Wednesday October 28.
Tickets will go on sale worldwide to the general public this coming Sunday September 27. UK audiences will be able to book tickets at cinemas nationwide from 12.01am.
Ray Barrett rest in peace
Australian actor Ray Barrett has died, aged 82. He voiced some of the puppets on the vintage sci-fi TV programs Thunderbirds and Stingray, but his most famous role was as Constable Farrell in The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978), directed by Fred Schepisi.
This was an important and ground breaking independent film which raised awareness about the institutionalised racism against the Aborigine people in Australia which was then the norm. The film’s story is told from the point of view of an Aborigine – something that had never been done before. A lot of people were shocked!
While most people have heard of Apartheid in South Africa not so many know the appalling story of racism and virtual genocide against the Aborigines in Australia which was going on at the same time.
Adapted from the novel by Thomas Keneally (author of Schindler’s List), the film is about a young “half-caste” in turn-of-the-century Australia who feels torn between the values and aspirations of white society on the one hand, and his Aboriginal roots on the other. He ends up committing violence against his perceived white oppressors.
UK opening of ‘District 9′ overshadowed by accusations of racism.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjihaK7HfGs&feature=fvst
The surprise sci fi hit of the summer, District 9 is being pummelled from all directions. Not because it isn’t a well made film (it is) but because it treads on dangerous ground with its analogies of Apartheid South Africa.
Some Nigerians have been complaining that the film represents them as gansgters, prostitutes and arms dealers. One person even set up a Facebook petition against the film – you can view that here.
But Nigerian Guardian columnist Tola Onanuga had this to say:
“District 9 is neither racist nor xenophobic. South African director Neill Blomkamp has made an astonishingly thought-provoking and intelligent film that in turn assumes intelligent thinking from his audience. By refusing to shy away from the uncomfortable truth that racism will always exist, Blomkamp is forcing us to challenge our own perceptions about race and equality. He makes it clear the Nigerians are no better or worse than their white (or alien) counterparts, creating an unsettling sort of equality among the characters. And while the film may occasionally play on clumsy racial stereotypes, it also encourages us to challenge them. As Peter Bradshaw observes in his review, the film “encourages the audience to ask questions the movie is uninterested in answering”.
Andrew Rule of The first Post has found another angle to attack the film from and brands the film nothing but “an awesome showcase for the South African arms industry”. This one is well worth reading and he actually has a point – read about it here.
So what do you think? Comment below and let us have your thoughts.
Too close to The Wire – UK politico gets in a tangle
Omar from The Wire (Barack Obama's favorite character)
Chris Grayling, the UK Conservative Party Shadow Home Secretary has gone viral – as a laughing stock. Even The Times does not know whether to laugh or cry.
Grayling has got himself tangled up talking about The Wire, proving that he knows almost nothing about the program, and possibly nothing about anything. A similar thing happened to Thatcher when she tried to use the Satanic Verses book burning crisis for political gain, only to start backtracking when she discovered the book described her as a “bitch.”
In this case Grayling watched maybe half an episode of The Wire (most people think), before deciding that ‘Broken Britain’ (his party’s pet phrase) was becoming just like Baltimore, where there were 234 murders last year, and he must speak out.
The trouble is Home Office figures show a drop in violent crime, and the number of murders in England and Wales has fallen to its lowest for 20 years. In fact one of the crimes to increase has been fraud and corruption.
Grayling obviously fails to grasp that The Wire strongly depicts corruption in the system – by people just like him and his kind. Crimes which create and perpetuate misery for millions.
As a Member of Parliament, the scene of a recently discovered expenses racket involving hundreds of MPs including himself, Chris Grayling may be closer to The Wire than he would ever wish to admit.
Meanwhile it has emerged that Dominic West, who plays detective Jimmy McNulty in The Wire, went to Eton with David Cameron, and apparently is still “close”. But not close enough to explain the basic plot to the Tory leader and his minions.
He might have explained how The Wire depicts what writer David Simons calls “the people left behind” during an in depth interview with Bill Moyers. But all Cameron and Grayling say they want to do is cut off their benefits.
Apparently Grayling has ‘previous’ for referring to television shows. He has complained about a ‘Growing ‘Jeremy Kyle’ generation of young men, alienated and drifting without a purpose in life’. He used Frank Gallagher – one of the main characters in Shameless – as an example of how society no longer knows how to bring up children.
Murder Facts: In 60 episodes The Wire features 82 murders. In Baltimore, Maryland (or ‘Bodymore, Murderland’), there were 234 murders in 2008. Baltimore has less than one tenth of the population of London, but nearly twice the number of murders. In Greater Manchester there were 49 murders in the 12 months leading up to March 2008. The number of murders in England and Wales has fallen to its lowest for 20 years.
Gillian Anderson: new X Files film conspiracy does exist
Gillian Anderson at Sarajevo Film Festival - new X Files conspiracy does exist
As 2012 film fans and anyone Googling “End of the World 2012” will know, the end of almost everything could be very soon, but not before a new X Files film is released into the atmosphere according to Gillian Anderson. Could this in fact be the trigger for the Apocalypse?
Speaking at the recent Sarajevo Film Festival Gillian Anderson admitted to the conspiracy: “There is no reason why not to come together and do it again. If they can pull it off, we’ll find some reason to make it. There isn’t any reason not to do it.”
Intelligence chatter on the Internet says the new X Files will start filming in 2012, and will also star David Duchovny as Agent Mulder.
The first X Files film, The X Files Fight the Future, earned almost $190 million in worldwide ticket sales. Last year’s sequel, I Want to Believe, made $68 million, more than doubling its budget.
Could 2012 Two be just round the corner? For the sake of humanity we hope so. While we wait, here is an emergency 2012 public information broadcast:
StreetDance – dancing extras needed for first ever UK 3D feature film
Here is a chance to go dancing in the streets and help make the first UK independent feature film about street dancing with Vertigo Films. This will be a chance to play a part in film making history twice as it will also be the first ever UK feature film to be shot entirely in 3D.
StreetDance, is filming right now and Vertigo Films need a crowd of 500 people for a huge StreetDance competition scene. The scene is the grand finale to the film and an integral part of the plot. They are especially keen to hear from street dancers, crews, poppers, lockers and breakers who think they will look good on screen.
The filming will take place in London on 8th 16th 17th 18th 19th & 25th September BUT you don’t have to be available for all dates. You need to be 17 or over to apply and they don’t mind if you dance alone or with a crew. They are also happy to hear from non-dancers who are into the street dance scene and will look the part.
Filming days are long and there is no pay, but a fantastic experience is promised, and you will be looked after. You will be part of the first ever UK Street Dance film, as well as the first ever UK feature film to be shot in 3D. You will also be in the company of some of the best dancers in Europe.
To be part of this groundbreaking film (and possibly see yourself in 3D on the big screen) please send your details and a recent photo of you and/or your crew to:
extras@streetdancethemovie.co.uk . Please include your contact details and which dates you are available. Please include the words ‘Extra September’ in the subject line of your email.
Oppps! Walt Disney draws controversy with Afro-American Princess and a Frog
Walt Disney’s new animation film The Princess & the Frog, which features their first starring role for an Afro-American Princess, will premiere with a limited run in New York and Los Angeles starting on November 25, 2009, followed by a wide release on December 11, 2009.
Originally scheduled for the top Christmas Day 2009 release slot, Disney has moved The Princess and the Frog’s premiere date in favor of Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel. This is possibly because they have had to fend off bitter controversy about racial stereotyping from the moment they announced the ‘Princess and the Frog’ project.
Despite being dogged by criticism for a lack of political correctness, the film has received full ‘A List’ backing with a voice cast including Oprah Winfrey and Anika Noni Rose who starred in ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’. The score is by Randy Newman.
“The Princess and the Frog” production marks Disney’s return to traditional hand-drawn 2-D animation. This is a major U-Turn after Disney previously said their ‘Home on the Range’ flop (2004) would be their last film to use the hand drawn technique. Ron Clements and John Musker who head Disney’s animation department, and direct this new animation venture are said to be responsible for the change, which many will welcome.
Despite this, Disney’s public relations department has had to counter criticism from a number of quarters.
First they had to change the film’s name from ‘The Frog Princess’ to ‘The Princess and the Frog’.
The name of the heroine Princess also had to be changed from ‘Maddy’ to ‘Tiana’ after charges that Maddy was a “slave name” and promoting a stereotype similar to Hattie McDaniel’s demeaning character in ‘Gone With the Wind’.
One of the first to weigh in with charges of racial stereotyping was the ‘Council for the Development of French in Louisiana’ (CODOFIL), a state agency charged with the protection and promotion of French in Louisiana. They said the portrayal of a Cajun character in the film, (a toothless, lovesick firefly) was a continuation of the inaccurate stereotyping of Cajun people. Warren Perrin, CODOFIL President was especially outspoken in his criticism:
“It has been done in so many movies over so much time, people think that’s the way we are – and it’s just wrong. I can list several other movies where they have portrayed us as backward, toothless, illiterate people who fart.”
One of the fiercest critics has been William Blackburn, former columnist at The Charlotte Observer who said; “Disney should be ashamed of what it is trying to pass off as its first black princess.” He also branded the setting of the film in New Orleans as “insensitive” because it was “the setting of one of the most devastating tragedies to beset a black community.” According to this logic filming in most places on earth would be out of the question.
Even the computer games on Disney’s ‘Princess and the Frog’ website have been attacked for stereotyping.
There have also been complaints that the Prince isn’t black, although this means the film shows inter racial relationships in a positive light for a change. Prince Naveen comes from a fictional land named Maldonia, and is indeed white, but is voiced by Brazilian actor Bruno Campos.
One critic has called the film ‘animated racism’ while others have complained that the Afro-Princess will spend a lot of the film being a green frog, not a black Princess which they see as an insult. Perhaps some of this knit-picking is being taken to extremes.
Judging by the pre-release footage (see below) this film will rise up above all the accusations and become another Walt Disney fantasy classic. But there is still plenty of time for further complaints before the December 11th release date.
Denzel Washington a surprise wedding guest for gob smacked Leeds couple
Alastair and Caroline Nightingale from Leeds, Yorkshire had just got married in their dream location on the Amalfi Coast (Italy) when they got the massive bonus of a surprise visit from Mega Star Denzel Washington.
Mr Nightingale said: ‘He made our day. He is a really nice guy, totally charming.
You can catch the trailer to Denzel’s new film ‘The Taking of Pelham 123′ here
London to Hollywood – Naomie Harris in pictures and video
Naomie Harris shot to stardom in Britain with her performance in TV drama White Teeth, hit the big screen with 28 Days later, established herself in Hollywood with Pirates of the Caribbean and consolidated with Miami Vice. She’s now firmly enmeshed in the UK and American acting scene and looks like going on and on.
Naomie Harris career in pictures and video below.
Scary in Pirates of The Caribbean
Sultry in Miami Vice
Missing teeth in White Teeth
Zombified in 28 Days Later
Dangerous in Ninja Assassin
Clip from White Teeth.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhbhjrhHtfw&feature=related
28 Days Later
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmfbKnwe1Gw
Pirates of the Caribbean interview
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H-kmNJrXZY
Miami Vice interview
Denzel Washington gives marriage tips
Click here to browse Denzel Washington action movies on Kush Online Store
Hollywood megastar Denzel Washington and his wife recently celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary and here’s Denzel explaining how he keeps Mrs Washington happy
The secret words are ‘Yes dear’, ‘OK honey’ and ‘I’ll get it’. That or just make sure you don’t say a word. Just shut up,” he joked. “I think that’s the best advice I can give any husband hoping for a long marriage.”
Denzel has also been talking about how much fun he had fattening up for his latest role in The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (trailer below)
“Getting there was such fun. Milkshakes, hamburgers… middle of the night a little Haagen Daz. Anything I wanted just eat, eat, eat,” he said.
“My wife was OK with it, I think every wife wants their husband to be plump and fatten them up. She doesn’t eat, she cooks all this food for me, but she doesn’t eat it.”
Don’t forget to click here to browse Denzel Washington action movies on Kush Online Store.
Here’s the trailer for The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gZaKfJqChA
Jamie Foxx and Halle Berry kiss – Pics of Halle out on the town with Nahla.
Click here to go to Kush Online Store and buy The Foxx Box, two hilarious stand up shows in one
In a recent Chicago Sun interview to promote his new album, Jamie Foxx was asked about the Spike TV Awards and the moment that Halle Berry kissed him as she presented him with an award..
“That may have been one of the highlights of my life. There’s birth, then kissing Halle Berry . I know I’m the envy of every man in the world. The thing is, it was all a joke. She has this funny side. She needs to do a great comedy. Maybe I’ll get to star in it with her.”
Meanwhile, here’s Halle Berry and her daughter Nahla out on the town in LA.
Idris Elba – Italian Gangster
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSytzD_1Ptw&feature=PlayList&p=3407BB62DDCADBAA&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=2