Warning: Spoilers for Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 3 “Hotel Reverie” are in play.

There are always going to be opposing opinions in the world, whether the 2025 TV schedule is the battlefield or not. With an anthology series as polarizing as Netflix’s Black Mirror, those viewpoints tend to collide even more forcefully, especially when you’re talking about something like “Hotel Reverie’s” heartbreaking ending in Season 7.

After actor Issa Rae shared her feelings on what that conclusion means to her, I totally agree with her sentiment. In fact, I think she's provided me with the ultimate argument against another Black Mirror ending that fans love to credit as being the "happiest."

I Totally Agree With Issa Rae’s Read On ‘Hotel Reverie’s’ Bittersweet Twist

If you haven’t watched Black Mirror’s Season 7 spin on deep fakes and Casablanca, this is your last chance to jump out. Thankfully, myself and other the journalists on hand for the recent roundtable experience celebrating this Netflix subscription booster saw the episode, and used that knowledge to cut to the heart of those final moments in “Hotel Reverie.” As far as Issa Rae is concerned, she didn't hold back when addressing CinemaBlend and more about how she sees that tear jerking finale:

The short short version of what happens in “Hotel Reverie’s” climax is as follows. After Hollywood star Brandy Friday (Rae) falls for a computer simulation of Dorothy Chambers (Emma Corrin) in the titular film, the ending to this Hollywood classic is altered. With Chambers’ in-universe character dying in the picture’s last reel, a new tragic ending is introduced within this Black Mirror riff on a cinematic classic.

While Brandy Friday returns to the real world, her heart is still with the representation of Emma Corrin's tragic starlet that resides solely in the machine world. However, since this is the world that created a device as sinister but as desirable as “The Nubbin,” the white button-shaped device that threads together several of Charlie Brooker’s dystopian tales, there’s one final twist.

A copy of Dorothy’s digital model is sent to Brandy herself, allowing her to talk to Dorothy whenever she wants. Which feels happy when it first happens, but it then starts to take a darker turn if you look at it the right way - just like the ending to another Black Mirror classic.

"Hotel Reverie" Further Proves That "San Junipero" Isn’t Black Mirror’s "Happiest" Ending

Frequently considered one of the best Black Mirror episodes, Season 3’s “San Junipero” is a story I see cropping up just as often when it comes to discussing the few “happy” endings in the overall anthology. It’s true that Gugu-Mbatha Raw and Mackenzie Davis’ star-crossed lovers do technically wind up together at the end, but the method by which that takes shape is where Charlie Brooker’s dystopian tendencies color it in a different light, for me at least.

Which leads me to the final part of Issa Rae’s interpretation of the ending to “Hotel Reverie,” as I believe she hit the nail on the head when it comes to my feelings on the matter. Drawing from her previously expressed feelings above, Rae provides a caveat that paints a potentially happier picture:

Envisioning a scenario where Brandy Friday takes those feelings and uses them in her actual life is something that almost makes this Black Mirror story quite optimistic. Also, considering that the episode I do think has the happiest ending, Season 4’s romantic romp “Hang the DJ,” has a spiritually similar solution, I can see it happening. Meanwhile, the ending to “San Junipero” is still bittersweet, but in a totally different way.

Those final moments of “elder Kelly” (Denise Burse) letting her human form go, while arriving eternally in her forever youthful spot on TCKR System's servers, are still absolutely chilling. It's only made worse to watch these events play out against the tune of Brandie Carlyle’s “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.”

While Kelly did get some time with Yorkie in the real world, it was to expedite her request to be euthanized - which was already a controversial point of order with her family. That’s a bittersweet ending to be sure, but one with the final message that this romance was only ever really given a chance in virtual reality.

As always, I concede that the court of public opinion may rule that I’m wrong in this scenario; and that’s part of the fun with Black Mirror. One person’s bittersweet finale is another viewer’s depressing sign that technology has truly won.

I’m sure some people out there think that “Common People’s” ending is somehow cheery; but that should be an admittedly small pool. Whatever your outlook may be, you can catch all of Season 7, as well as previous seasons, through Netflix’s streaming library. Nubbin sold separately… for now.

Celebrities owning restaurants is an old tradition in Hollywood. Sometimes, like Mark Wahlberg, it's a simple burger chain, other times, it's a classy hotel where you can have an elegant meal, like Richard Gere. Everything from tacos to sushi to fried chicken and everything in between. 

Just like people love watching scenes in movies about food, people love to rub elbows with the elite in some of these establishments. Here are 32 actors who own restaurants all over the country. 

Mark Wahlberg - Wahlburgers

The first Wahlburgers opened in Hingham, Massachusetts in 2011. The chain has since grown to dozens of stores all over the country and was the subject of a reality show for 10 seasons on A&E. The chain is collectively owned by three Wahlbergs, including Mark and Donnie, along with their chef brother, Paul. 

Ryan Gosling - Tagline

Ryan Gosling has become one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, and so it makes sense he would open a restaurant in Beverly Hills. Co-owned by the Barbie star and Chef Ben Benameur, the Moroccan joint serves up delicious food in a cozy atmosphere.

Lady Gaga - Joanne Trattoria

Joanne Germanotta was a beloved aunt to Lady Gaga (whose real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta). Not only did Gaga name a 2016 album after her, but the family has also opened Joanne Trattoria on the Upper West Side in Manhattan. In true Gaga style, the restaurant is not only a great place for Italian food, but it supports local artists, hosts regular drag shows, and has regular performances by local musicians. 

Robert De Niro - Nobu

Robert De Niro first became a regular at chef Nobu Matsuhisa's LA sushi joint Nobu way back in the 1980s. In the mid-90s, De Niro approached Matsuhisa about opening a New York spot. Nobu opened in 1994 in Tribeca and the company has since become a powerhouse in the hospitality industry, with dozens of restaurants and hotels all over the world. 

Michael Imperioli - Scarlet

White Lotus star Michael Imperioli has dabbled in the restaurant industry for a long time. In the mid-'90s Imperioli and his wife opened a speakeasy-style bar called Ciel Rouge, in Tribeca. Almost 30 years later, and 20 after Ciel Rouge closed in 2005, the couple opened Scarlet on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. It sticks with the classy, chill speakeasy vibe that made their first venture successful. 

Sandra Bullock - Walton's Fancy & Staple

Walton's Fancy & Staple in Austin, TX, is pretty much exactly what you would expect from Sandra Bullock. It's an upscale neighborhood place with hearty food and a cheery atmosphere. Walton's is the Speed star's second restaurant in her adopted hometown. The first, Bess Bistro, closed in 2016 after a successful 10-year run. Walton's opened in 2009. 

Ludacris - Chicken And Beer

Is there anything better than good fried chicken and great beer to wash it down? If you're in Atlanta and don't check out Ludacris' place, simply named Chicken and Beer, you're missing out on those two wonderful things that pair so well together.

Norman Reedus - Nic & Norman's

Norman Reedus is famous for playing rough-around-the-edges characters like Daryl in The Walking Dead, but his restaurant is not. Nic & Norman's, which has locations across the Southeast is rustic, but it's not rough in any way. The upscale but relaxed gastropubs are sure to satisfy anyone. 

Susan Sarandon - SPiN

When Susan Sarandon and her fellow investors opened SPiN in 2009, there was a surge in the popularity of table tennis (or ping pong). The fad was pretty short-lived, but the table tennis-focused restaurants have remained successful with multiple locations around the country. 

Dan Aykroyd - House Of Blues

One of Dan Aykroyd's most beloved SNL characters, Elwood Blues of The Blues Brothers, has proven to be more than just a role for the actor. On Thanksgiving Day 1992, Aykroyd and his partner Isaac Tigrett (who founded the Hard Rock Cafe), opened the first House of Blues in Cambridge, MA. It has since grown into one of the largest chains of live music venues in the world, and serves some pretty delicious food, too. 

Eva Longoria - Beso

Eva Longoria can do no wrong on the big and small screens, but she didn't have much luck in the restaurant industry. Her steakhouse in LA, Beso, ran into multiple problems in its short run, though none were the fault of the actress. 

Kevin Hart - Hart House

Kevin Hart's LA chain Hart House was ambitious. He wanted to create an affordable vegan chain, and despite rave reviews, it just couldn't make it in the market. The company closed all of its locations in 2024 after initially finding success. 

Issa Rae - Hilltop Coffee And Kitchen

Issa Rae is a true force of nature both in front of and behind the camera. She's also found success in the food industry. Hilltop Coffee And Kitchen brings high-end coffee vibes to historical Black neighborhoods in LA, like Inglewood and View Park. 

Danny Trejo - Trejo's Tacos

Everyone loves tacos and every loves Danny Trejo. So of course a concept like Trejo's Tacos is sure to work and it has succeeded greatly. The chain has multiple locations across LA and has even spawned a second concept: Trejo's Donuts which also opened to rave reviews. 

Channing Tatum - Saints And Sinners

Saints And Sinners, a bar on Bourbon Street in New Orleans co-owned by Channing Tatum was a wild success... at least for a time. The industry is notoriously fickle and Tatum and his partners learned that the hard way when the bar closed in the summer of 2024 after 12 great years. 

Justin Timberlake - The Twelve Thirty Club

Justin Timberlake first dabbled in the food industry in the early teens when he helped design a Memphis-style BBQ joint in New York City called Southern Hospitality. Though he wasn't an owner, he was involved in the concept phase of the place and was a regular there. More recently, he has teamed up with restauranteur Sam Fox to open The Twelve Thirty Club in Nashville. 

Nicholas Braun - Jac’s On Bond

Cousin Greg may not always get the most respect on Succession, but the actor who plays him, Nicholas Braun, sure gets respect in the hospitality industry. Braun is an investor in multiple restaurants in New York City, including a chill bar and restaurant called Jac's on Bond Street in the trendy NoHo neighborhood. 

Zach Braff - Mermaid Oyster Bar

MacDougal Street in New York's Greenwich Village is home to some great restaurants, like the legendary Caffe Reggio and Mamoun's Falafels. It's also where you can find Zach Braff's more upscale, but still laid-back seafood spot appropriately called Mermaid Oyster Bar. 

Anthony Mackie - NoBar

Like others on this list (and in the world), Anthony Mackie has had mixed results as a bar/restaurant owner. His most famous spot, NoBar, opened in Brooklyn in 2011, followed by a second Booklyn location in 2013. Sadly both closed in 2015. 

Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis - Planet Hollywood

The granddaddy of all actor-owned restaurants has to be Planet Hollywood. The first Planet Hollywood opened in New York City in 1991. Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Bruce Willis, among others, were all investors in the concept and, at least at first, the restaurant was a huge success, opening additional locations across the globe. At its peak, there were upwards of 60 locations in the late '90s, but the fun didn't last. Things started to unravel and the stars started to jump shit and most of the locations, other than their most successful ones, closed. 

Richard Gere - Bedford Post Inn

Legendary actor Richard Gere doesn't just own a restaurant, he owns an 8-room bed and breakfast called the Bedford Post Inn in... appropriately, Bedford, NY. The stylish and quaint inn does include a spot to eat, the Bedford Post Tavern, and the inn and the restaurant both draw all kinds of celebrities for a restful stay or a delicious dinner. 

Robert Redford - Zoom

It shouldn't come as any surprise to learn that Robert Redford's former restaurant in Park City, UT was home to a lot of home to a lot powerbrokers during the Sundance Film Festival for many years. Prior to closing in 2016, the hot spot was where the elite met to eat and strike deals during one of the biggest film festivals in the world. 

Hugh Jackman - Laughing Man Coffee

The origin story for Hugh Jackman's Laughing Man Coffee is one of the best on this list. The Aussie actor and his wife took a trip to Ethiopia to learn more about coffee and how the beans were grown. There, according to the coffee shop's website, Jackman met a coffee farmer named Dukale. Dukale gave Jackman a real hands-on experience and after the trip, he and some partners opened Laughing Man Coffee with the goal of working directly with farmers around the world to bring their coffee to New Yorkers. 

Jon Bon Jovi - Soul Kitchen And JBJ's

Jon Bon Jovi may be most famous for being the voice of the band named after him, but he's dabbled a lot in acting, and a little in the hospitality biz. His first venture was started by his foundation and called Soul Kitchen. The restaurant, located in Red Bank, NJ, sells food for whatever hungry customers can afford. Bon Jovi has also opened a spot on the famous Broadway strip in Nashville called JBJ's which features live music and a full menu, in addition to beer and booze, of course.

Piper Perabo - Jack's Wife Freda

Piper Perabo got her big break playing a bartender in Coyote Ugly and while the New York City chain she's an investor in, called Jack's Wife Frida, doesn't feature half-dressed women dancing on the bar, it's got something even better: delicious Mediterranean food. With five locations across the city, you can always find what you're craving, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Jessica Biel - Au Fudge

Au Fudge, which closed its doors in 2018, was something unique in the celebrity restaurant world - a kid's restaurant. As the name implies, Jessica Biel's spot was all about dessert and candy. It also had all the stuff kids love, like chicken fingers, on the menu. The world needs more of these, right parents?

Debi Mazar - The Tuscan Gun

Debi Mazar and her chef husband's love of food was first shown through a cooking show on the Cooking Channel. They spun that into a Tuscany-themed New York restaurant called The Tuscan Gun. Using chef Mazar's husband Gabriele Corcos' recipes, the Italian joint brought the best of Italy to Williamsburg. 

Quentin Tarantino - Do Hwa

For years, Quentin Tarantino's Korean restaurant Do Hwa brought the delicious flavors of East Asia to the West Village in New York. While very few people would call Tarantino "understated," his restaurant was, in all the best ways. It was cozy and delicious before it closed in 2018.

Jerry Ferrara - Fat Sal's

A sandwich joint called Fat Sal's is just perfect for Entourage star Jerry Ferrara. It sounds exactly like something Turtle would open on the show. Fat Sal's has multiple locations around LA and is a great spot if you want traditional deli sandwiches sold by a guy you can be sure loves them as much as you do. 

Justin Theroux - Ray's

Justin Theroux is a jack of all trades. He's an actor, a writer, and an ex-husband to Jennifer Aniston. He's also a bar owner, along with partner Nicolaus Braun with Ray's on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The dive bar is everything you could ever want in an unpretentious local water hole, which is no surprise, coming from Theroux. 

Ashton Kutcher - Dolce Enoteca E Ristorante

Ashton Kutcher has never been afraid to make risky investments. Some have paid off handsomely, like his early investments in Spotify and Uber. Others haven't worked out so well, like his short-lived Italian spot, Dolce Enoteca E Ristorante. The hot spot worked for a while but it closed in 2020, like so many other restaurants. 

Ty Burrell - The Eating Establishment

Modern Family star Ty Burrell took a slightly different route to restaurant ownership than most of the other actors on his list. Instead of starting a new spot, he bought an old one. The Eating Establishment, which dates back to 1970, was purchased by Burrell and other investors in 2016 and they've continued to run the popular Park City, UT restaurant ever since. 

Eminem - Mom's Spaghetti

Mom's Spaghetti is the perfect kind of place for Eminem to own, right? The Detroit, Michigan-based eatery has name that perfectly describes the food you can get there, and it's taken straight from an Eminem lyric in "Lose Yourself."

Jon Huertas - Clutch

Jon Huertas, best known for playing Brad Alcerro in Sabrina The Teenage Witch, is the proud owner of Clutch Roadhouse in Culver City, CA. Clutch is known for its great food and charitable works, both very important to the This Is Us star. 

A number of people would probably agree that representation should always be something Hollywood strives for. Yet the most important part of providing that is giving creators the space to tell their own stories, instead of trying to do it for them. That’s why an event like the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is essential ,because it creates a space to amplify Black stories. And it was during this year's event that Barbie and American Fiction star Issa Rae shared her experiences. She also got honest about how she, like so many others, has been "impacted" by the industry's recent slowdown.

This year’s ABFF took place this past weekend, June 12-16, in Miami, and the festival offered the opportunity for Black filmmakers to talk openly about the current challenges they are facing in the film industry. Some may be surprised to hear that despite her her roles in some of the most lauded films of the past year, Issa Rae has experienced a career lull. She's also specifically seen the effects through her own media production company, Hoorae Media. Of course, Hollywood has yet to pick up the pace following the SAG-AFTRA and Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) strikes  that took place last summer. As the Insecure co-creator recently told The Los Angeles Times, it's a delicate balance between what the industry wants to see and the stories creatives want to tell:

These are some keen thoughts from the acclaimed actress, writer and producer. And her advice for other filmmakers also struggling with the slowdown? Utilize new media outlets, like TikTok and Instagram Reels, to showcase your work if no one will take you on. The tools to get projects noticed are right at our fingertips these days, especially with viral sharing culture more prominent than ever. And this is coming from someone who succeeded in launching a web series back in 2011 called Awkward Black Girl, so you know these aren't just empty words of advice.

Issa Rae has long been a leader for Black female representation in Hollywood, mostly within the realm of comedy. But she has demonstrated her range countless times with projects like Netflix’s rom-com The Lovebirds, to the acclaimed adaptation of Angie Thomas’s bestseller The Hate U Give and a personal favorite, Drake’s "Nice For What" music video (it’s such a fun video staring some of the industry’s best badass women). While it's a shame that she's seen a slowdown in her career as of late, one would think that with her abilities and reputation, she'll be booked and busy again soon.

I also can’t think of anyone better to facilitate discussion on the current state of diversity and representation in Hollywood as the director of this year’s ABFF. The actress has show that she's incredibly down-to-earth, funny, hard-working and unafraid to speak up when she feels industry professionals and the media are lacking. We could use more people that are honest about the industry, in my humble opinion. So whatever Issa Rae creates or speaks on next, you know I'm ready to give her my attention. 

While you wait to see what she does next, you can check out her performance in Barbie by streaming the film with a Max subscription. Also, Prime Video subscribers can see her work in American Fiction.

As the 2024 Oscar nominees and guests walked the red carpet before this year’s ceremony, it became abundantly clear that sparkles were going to have a major moment. From Zendaya's pink off-the-shoulder black and pink moment to Anya Taylor-Joy's angelic silver gown to America Ferrera's Barbiecore dress, dazzling outfits were the highlight this year, and we need to talk about it. 

Zendaya

After killing it on the Dune: Part Two press tour -- I mean she wore an incredible robot-inspired outfit at one point for heaven's sake -- Zendaya, one of our most fashionable celebrities, slayed the Oscars red carpet wearing Armani Privé and Bulgari jewelry, per E! News.

 Anya Taylor-Joy  

Keeping it in the Dune: Part Two cast, Anya Taylor-Joy also sparkled on the carpet wearing Dior Haute Couture, per Red Carpet Fashion Awards. The look featured gorgeous silver pedals down the skirt, and she complimented the gown with a lovely silver necklace. 

America Ferrera 

Taking a page directly out of her Barbie castmates' playbook, America Ferrera hopped on the Barbiecore trend, wearing a dazzling pink Versace chainmail dress, per People. 

Da’Vine Joy Randolph  

The Holdovers is no doubt one of Da'Vine Joy Randolph's best movies, and this Oscar winner rocked a sparkling Louis Vuitton powder blue gown, per ET, perfect to accept her trophy for her performance in the acclaimed drama. She truly shined!

Colman Domingo  

Nominated for Rustin, Colman Domingo walked the Oscars red carpet in a black Louis Vuitton suit. As always, he was super classy, and he added his spin to a classic look by rocking a sparkling bowtie that matched the buttons on his double-breasted suit. 

Issa Rae 

Wearing AMI Paris, per E! News, Barbie's Issa Rae took the carpet in a stunning black sparkly dress with a plunging neckline and a high slit. I think it's safe to say this is a look President Barbie would approve of. 

Gabrielle Union 

A power couple in real life and on the red carpet, Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade attended the Oscars in fashion. Most notably, the Bring It On actress wore a Carolina Herrera PF24 dress, per E! News, that looked like it was made of diamonds. She paired them with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Overall, these two shined on the carpet. 

Lupita Nyong'o 

Also wearing Armani Privé, per E! News, Lupita Nyong'o rocked a stunning light blue sparkly gown that was reminiscent of the dress she wore when she won her Oscar in 2014. 

The 12 Years a Slave star, who won in 2014, was there to help announce the Best Supporting Actress award by speaking about Da'Vine Joy Randolph (who was also wearing a matching dress). 

Emily Blunt  

Representing the Oppenheimer cast and celebrating her Best Supporting Actress nomination, Emily Blunt dazzled in a Schiaparelli gown, per People. Her champagne-colored dress was complimented with silver detailing and jewelry from Tiffany & Co. Plus, her hubby John Krasinski was styling right next to her in a matching suit. 

Michelle Yeoh

A year after Michelle Yeoh's historic Oscars win for Everything Everywhere All At Once, she sparkled on this year's red carpet in a custom Balenciaga Couture dress, per Harper's Bazaar. The two-toned sparkling gown was fit for a queen, and she paired it with black opera gloves and statement earrings. Overall, it was the perfect follow-up to her iconic look from the 2023 awards. 

Overall, these stars and more were literally and figuratively shining at the 2024 Oscars! 

This year marked a historic moment in the Television Academy’s history, as two Black women became 75th Emmy Award winners by taking home trophies for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy in the same year. Of course, I’m referring to Quinta Brunson’s lead actress win for Abbott Elementary and Ayo Edebiri’s supporting actress title for The Bear. So, thinking about this historic moment, and all the magnificent Black women working in comedy today, we’ve compiled a list of Black actresses who we can’t wait to see take over Hollywood.  

Quinta Brunson

Over the course of Abbott Elementary’s run, there’s been a lot of talk about how Quinta Brunson and her team at ABC are helping save network television. As the creator, showrunner, executive producer, writer and, oh yeah, star of the comedy, I’d say this incredible woman is the biggest reason why Abbott Elementary is such a hit. 

After years of working on comedies like A Black Lady Sketch Show, Brunson broke big with Abbott, and even though the show hasn’t been on long, she’s cemented herself in television history as a prolific comedy writer, actor and producer. 

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri burst into the mainstream in 2022 with Season 1 of The Bear. However, 2023 was the year where she took over, because her role in The Bear’s cast elevated her and she won an Emmy for playing Sydney, she was the co-lead of the Bottoms ensemble, she was part of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem voice cast, and she starred in Theater Camp, too. And that was only in one year.

Along with all the work I just listed, this powerhouse comedian also voices roles in the beloved comedies Big Mouth and Clone High. She’s also a writer, producer and stand-up comedian. 

Ayo Edebiri isn’t just poised to take over Hollywood, she actively is. 

Jessica Williams

The world really became aware of Jessica Williams when her film The Incredible Jessica James -- which she starred in, wrote and produced -- came out in 2017. After that, she had supporting roles in the Fantastic Beasts movies and comedies like Booksmart. She then went on to star in Max’s Love Life, and these days she is in the stellar Apple TV+ comedy, Shrinking, alongside Jason Segel and Harrison Ford. 

What I’m saying is we should all be paying attention to this powerhouse comedy actress, because Williams has proven herself over and over again, and her star consistently keeps rising higher and higher.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae created, wrote, produced and starred in HBO’s hit comedy, Insecure, which is an incredible TV show led by Black women. After her incredibly successful series came to a close in 2021, this actress started to expand her work in film, playing parts in Vengeance, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and American Fiction. Most notably, when it comes to Rae’s film career, she played President Barbie in the cast of Barbie, 2023’s highest-grossing film. 

So, not only is she a renowned producer, writer and actress, she’s also a movie star in the making. 

Danielle Brooks

If you need a triple threat, look no further than Danielle Brooks. Star of stage and screen, this actress became a well-known name after starring in 89 episodes of Orange is the New Black as Taystee. After that, she landed roles in movies here and there, and then she became a series regular in the cast of James Gunn’s DC series, Peacemaker. Soon, she found herself among 2024’s Oscar nominees for her performance in the musical drama The Color Purple. 

She can do drama, she can do comedy and she has the voice of an angel. If you aren’t watching Danielle Brooks’ work, you’re missing out. 

Ego Nwodim 

Ego Nwodim has been a mainstay on Saturday Night Live since 2018. This comedian and the modern cast of SNL have done some amazing, genius and stupid sketches that have us rolling over with laughter – like “Rap Roundtable” and “Lisa from Temecula.” She’s proven herself over and over again throughout her years on the sketch comedy show, and like the actresses who have come before her, like Tina Fey, Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph, she’s poised to take over the comedy space.

Da'Vine Joy Randolph 

Da’Vine Joy Randolph has been consistently working since 2013. However, her break-out moment came in 2023 when she starred alongside Paul Giamatti in The Holdovers. As an Oscar nominee, she’s now being recognized for her dramatic and comedic talents, and I can’t wait to see her in leading roles. 

Before this big moment, she played memorable supporting roles in shows like Only Murders in the Building and High Fidelity. Now, it’s her time to shine!

Janelle James 

If there’s one character I want more of in Abbott Elementary, it’s Principal Ava Coleman, played by the incomparable Janelle James. Before joining Brunson’s series to play the unconventional principal, James was doing stand-up comedy, and she was working as a writer and voice actor on Central Park. Now, the world has become aware of her impeccable physical comedy and her hysterical one-liners, and we can’t wait for more.

Michaela Coel 

Michaela Coel introduced herself as a television triple threat with her comedy, Chewing Gum, back in 2015, as she starred, wrote and produced the series. She then became huge with her beloved dramedy, I May Destroy You, in 2020, which, guess what, she also wrote, starred in and produced. Now, she’s starred in massive films like Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Honestly, if you aren’t watching Michaela Coel’s movies and TV shows, you are seriously missing out. 

Nicole Byer

As the host of one of Netflix’s most refreshingly non-toxic reality shows, Nailed It!, Nicole Byer has become a household name. On top of her wholesome and hilarious hosting, she’s also a talented comedic actress, and she has played roles in iconic shows like The Good Place and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Not to mention, she’s also a stand-up comedian. What can’t Nicole Byer do?

There are so many incredible Black comedic actresses working right now, and it’s been incredible to see all these women grow into stars. Now, they’re all set to take over Hollywood, and we can’t wait to see it happen!

Great television shows are definitely not hard to come by these days, but it’s no secret that the past few years have absolutely changed an industry that was already changing rapidly. 2020 saw a lot of talk about broadening the scope of stories seen on TV to include more people of color both in front of and behind the camera, but in a (basically) post-pandemic world where streamers and networks seem to be cutting their slates more ruthlessly than ever, Issa Rae has now gotten candid about how it’s impacting Black shows after her Max comedy was canceled.

What Did Issa Rae Say About How Black TV Shows Are Faring After Her Max Comedy Was Canceled?

Obviously, Issa Rae is no stranger to having a successful TV career. She launched Insecure on HBO in 2016, and it went on to become a much-nominated, Emmy and Peabody award-winning series that wrapped with its fifth season in 2021. The Barbie cast member (who is also in the Oscar-nominated American Fiction) also created Rap Sh!t for those with a Max subscription, but it was announced that the series was canceled in mid-January 2024, just about a month after Season 2 finished airing.

When speaking with Porter, Rae opened up about how all of the recent streaming cancellations and other changes have impacted Black series like hers negatively, saying:

Rap Sh!t focused on two struggling, Black female rappers who form a group to try and make their dreams come true, and it's now one of many shows that have been canceled by Max in the past four years. The massive merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery Communications that was announced in 2021 soon led to a seemingly never ending stream of cancellations on both HBO and Max, including for shows that had either been promised new seasons, or had actually already completed those new episodes. In addition, a number of series were completely removed from Max after being canceled, so fans can’t even revisit them right now.

As Rae noted, she can’t force anyone to make her shows, and she’s already seeing this collective purse-string tightening effect Black series and those who create them. It’s already well-documented that the powers that are typically at the helm of studios, streamers and production companies have to really be backed into a corner to see value in stories from Black creators (and other POC creatives), especially those that don’t involve traumatizing events, and give them a shot to both get on the air and then find an audience. 

If you’re going to make cuts, you’re going to start with the series you didn’t see the point of anyway and quietly roll back your diversity efforts if you think they’re costing too much money, and to Rae that has, very unfortunately, left a number of Black creators in a bad spot.

While the Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse star readily admitted to being “pessimistic” about the direction things have been going in, she’s still “firing on all cylinders” and working her butt off to get herself, and others, back on our screens soon.

One of Barbie’s most memorable qualities has to be the music. Audiences cried hearing one of Billie Eilish’s “best vocal performances” singing “What Was I Made For?” and Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” was one of the best moments in the movie. But the scene that brought us to our feet was Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night” when the Barbies and Kens of Barbieland danced to the top-tapping song at the Barbie Mansion. This infamous dance sequence may have gotten a lot of praise, but I felt like I was going to lose it after President Barbie’s Issa Rae shared what it was really like filming that scene.

Issa Rae has been known for portraying awkwardness in characters like J in Awkward Black Girl and the HBO series Insecure where she got tons of award recognition. It looks like awkward situations haven’t escaped her in real life as she explained to The Hollywood Reporter that filming the “Dance the Night” dance sequence wasn’t as fun as it looked in the Warner Bros. film. Prepare to laugh hysterically with me as the comedic actress shares what it was really like dancing the night away in Barbieland.

I find it hilarious to hear that Issa Rae described dancing in Barbie as “the worst day of my life.” But I guess if you’re not a confident dancer, it makes sense not wanting to dance in front of everybody. As Dua Lipa’s love of “dance-crying” was expressed throughout her song, something tells me the Golden Globe nominee was crying on the inside while filming her sequence. Especially when the choreography of the pop-disco song was completely abnormal. The whole cast had to dance similarly to dolls controlled by kids who would have them dance. 

Not only did Issa Rae have to learn the choreography of the Grammy-nominated song, but the actress/writer revealed there was another challenge she had to tackle when first working on the scene.

This proves that what we see on screen is a completely different ballgame compared to what happens behind the cameras. It must have been incredibly awkward to dance to such a bopper song and have no lyrics. I can imagine the song sounding very low-key without Dua Lipa’s beautiful vocals and lyrics to accompany it. On the bright side, at least rehearsing the song had instrumentals. I’m sure it would have been more cringe dancing without the music.

President Barbie already had a very important job running Barbieland and keeping everything in tip-top shape. But as director Greta Gerwig ran the ship of the Barbie cast and crew, she told E! News she naturally had to give the President of Barbieland a dance solo, of course. 

Just when Issa Rae felt that learning the dance sequence to Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night” was “the worst day” for her, she was told she had to have a solo! I feel like this fun fact is the cherry on top of an already hilarious story. But luckily, Greta Gerwig praised the Emmy nominee for the moves she brought for the Golden Globe-nominated film. And you better believe she slayed them all! You can watch President Barbie and the rest of the characters “dance the night away” in Barbie on your Max subscription. You can also make sure to look at our 2024 movie releases in case the Los Angeles native has any new projects in store.

The stars were out in Los Angeles, as the biggest names in television gathered at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards to celebrate the best actors, actresses and series that graced the small screen in 2023. For many, the best part about any awards show — in addition to seeing who took home the trophies — is seeing all of the amazing looks the celebrities put together, and the Emmys crowd certainly did not disappoint. 

Social media was buzzing over the hottest looks — and a couple of misses — from the Emmys red carpet, so let’s take a look at 6 of the most eye-catching fashion choices from Monday’s ceremony:

Issa Rae

Hi Barbie, indeed! Issa Rae was absolutely gorgeous in a cream-colored Pamella Roland gown. Crystals and pearls streamed down the floor-length dress, making the feathers sparkle, particularly on its wing-like long sleeves. The actress was making waves on social media as viewers said on X (Twitter): 

• I wouldn't like this on anyone else but it feels so authentically Issa and the details are gorgeous – TheOldMeg
• Issa Rae is absolutely perfect. – aslivedbyBria
• Issa Rae's dress at the Emmys is STRAIGHT FIYAH!!! OMG! – chilltowntv

Suki Waterhouse

You have to love a good baby bump moment on the red carpet, and as Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson prepare to welcome their first child, the Daisy Jones & The Six actress showed off her growing belly in a red Valentino dress that was to die for. The backless gown featured a large bow below Waterhouse’s stomach, and she wore her hair down in natural waves. Fans loved the look, writing: 

• Um, this is insane. What a goddess. – drebythesea
• MOTHER IS MOTHERING! – bestsukiw

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez straight-up dropped jaws when she arrived to the Emmys in a sheer Oscar de la Renta embellished with maroon sequins — 450,000 sequins to be exact, according to E!’s red carpet correspondent. She complemented the look with a statement necklace, dark lips to match her gown and velvet maroon heels. The fans voted and the results were unanimous: 

• Omg Selena looks stunning – Ceci20GS
• Selena Gomez looking so STUNNING. SHE'S SO GORGEOUS – repfolkorian
• Selena served this time 🔥 – @cosm1co

RuPaul's Drag Race Cast

Every member of the RuPaul's Drag Race cast who appeared on the red carpet deserved a moment to shine, as it’s no surprise they went all out for their ensembles. However, Princess Poppy specifically garnered a lot of attention, dressing from head to toe as a green troll. When asked about what inspired the look, Poppy told EW:  

Princess Poppy certainly turned heads but not necessarily in a bad way. Several social media users were calling the fashion statement “iconic.” 

Sam Richardson

The dresses always garner the most attention at any red carpet, but you have to love when the guys make a splash too. Sam Richardson, who won Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance on Ted Lasso, looked amazing in a textured white jacket with black shirt and pants. 

Aubrey Plaza

The most polarizing look of the night — well, green trolls not included — went to Aubrey Plaza, whose pastel yellow Loewe gown featured a giant sewing needle across the neckline. While some loved the unique look and its “don’t come near me or I’ll stab you” vibes, others didn’t quite get the ensemble, commenting: 

• Why does it look like Aubrey Plaza is wearing a Kraft cheese square? – Seanlofficial
• I legit gasped at what Aubrey Plaza is wearing - and not at all in a good way. – mizjawnson
• A large manilla envelope of documents stapled to Aubrey Plaza’s boob – calmdownbecky

It was great to see the hottest TV stars out on the red carpet, especially after the ceremony was delayed in September due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. The night featured a Grey’s Anatomy reunion that included Katherine Heigl, and Pedro Pascal giving an A+ response to Kieran Culkin’s zinger from the Golden Globes. 

If you missed any of the drama or amazing fashion moments, the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards can be streamed with a Hulu subscription on January 16, and be sure to check out our 2024 TV schedule to see what premieres are coming soon. 

In anticipation for Warner Bros’ Barbie movie, Mattel recently unveiled a collection of collectible Barbie dolls based on Greta Gerwig’s film. And as you can imagine, they're already flying off the shelves. The doll version of Margot Robbie's titular character in her pink western outfit has already sold out completely and is going for around $100 on Ebay, for example. But Barbie fans have things to say about the retail price points for some of the products. Some are even going as far as to say that they're "gonna be broke" by the time it's all said and done.

The collection consists of nine signature dolls that are all modeled after characters from the movie and wearing outfits that appear in the film. (Many of them were teased in the recently released full Barbie trailer.) Check out this viral TikTok illustrating the tough spot the merchandise is putting fans in: 

That’s right, many of the dolls inspired by the movie cost a whopping $50 to own, including Margot Robbie’s character in a plaid matching set, the western outfit, her pink gingham dress and gold disco jumpsuit. Additionally, Issa Rae’s president Barbie, America Ferrera’s Gloria Doll, Simu Liu’s Ken, Ryan Gosling’s Ken rocking his viral denim fit (with the “Ken” underwear that was apparently Gosling’s idea) also retail at the $50 price point. 

So if you wanted a few of them, you’d be out hundreds of dollars. And that’s without mentioning that you can also own the pink Corvette, a $150 replica DreamHouse building kit and all sorts of exclusive clothing too! Check out some of the comments that came out of the TikTok post pointing out the prices: 

• princesspastelita: “Yeah I’m gonna be broke.” 
• oncelers_discord_kitten: “They were so evil for these prices.” 
• color_me_barbie: “Those prices made me humble real quick… I’ll get what I can Mattel has lost their minds”

It was pretty much a given that Warner Bros. and Mattel were going to capitalize on this movie with plenty of merch. And to be quite honest, it's not all that surprising that the latter is charging so much for the highly coveted doll.

Let's be real, people are clearly going to buy these dolls anyway and very much have, considering the shortage of some of the dolls already. Another commenter shared “my finger slipped and I purchased western Barbie and denim Ken” while another fan figuratively shouted “WHERES MICHAEL CERA” in the collection. Cera is among the Barbie movie cast and is playing the role of Barbieland resident Allan. Perhaps, a second wave of this collection will hit at some point? 

While most of the dolls are $50 each, Mattel did make two dolls $25 as well. Barbie in the pink gingham dress and Ken in his striped beach matching set can both be purchased for that lower price point. Based on the fact that folks are paying $50 a pop now, one can't help but get the sense that Barbie feels like a 2023 new movie release that’s about to be a huge hit and pop culture phenomenon. 

Check out the highly anticipated film when it opens in theaters on July 21. Also, know that Barbiecore has been seriously going strong in recent months among celebrities, so clearly this is a sensation that could very well sweep the nation.

It often feels like rom-coms are a dime a dozen, but the truth is that the best romantic comedies are ones built on several things. Fans of the genre enjoy snappy dialogue, inventive and/or realistic complications for the central couple, a swoon-worthy love story, and, of course, main characters portrayed by actors who have more than enough on-screen chemistry to make all of those pieces come together. 

What’s great about romantic comedies is that we’ve gotten more than enough couples like this over the past two plus decades, but some of them have either only partnered one time (which, granted, may be because their pairing is still relatively new), or haven’t been in a film together for many years now. So, let’s take a look at the (mostly) rom-com partners that we really think should make another movie together!

Meg Ryan And Tom Hanks

This duo probably feels like a no-brainer to you, and, well, it should! Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks have memorably joined forces for two rom-com hits, Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail, plus the 1990 cult favorite romantic comedy, Joe Versus the Volcano, so there’s no reason for them not to really round things out with a fourth film. I’d be down for a second chance romance where they learn to love again, wouldn’t you?

Diane Keaton And Keanu Reeves 

Yes, yes… Already I’m cheating here, but only a tiny bit. While the magnetic on-screen coupling of Diane Keaton and Keanu Reeves wasn’t the main focus of Something’s Gotta Give, I have spent the past 20 years wishing they were. So, let's get these adorably crazy kids back together! They could play any kind of couple (bickering marrieds who are clearly still hot for each other, two folks who shouldn’t get together but can’t help themselves, etc.) and I’d be in the theater on opening night.

Lana Condor And Noah Centineo

Honestly, there might not be a cuter couple on this list. The dreamy teen romance movie pairing of Lana Condor and Noah Centineo was, obviously, gifted to everyone with a Netflix subscription in the To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before trilogy, and there’s a reason that so many people fell head over heels for them. These two sorta sparkle together on screen, and I’d love to see them reunite in a romance (or any comedy) that’s got more of an adult edge to it.

Alison Brie And Jason Sudeikis

We all adore it when a rom-com gives us something different, and 2015’s Sleeping with Other People does just that with its story of friends who openly acknowledge their sexual tension, but purposely avoid doing anything about it so as to not screw up what they have. Alison Brie and Ted Lasso cast lead Jason Sudeikis are amazing as the friends in question, and I’d love to see them bring their casual, but still sexy, chemistry to another film. 

Jenny Slate And Jake Lacy

A true pleasure of watching Obvious Child was seeing the relationship between Jenny Slate and Jake Lacy’s characters develop as she has trouble revealing that she’s getting an abortion several weeks after their one-night stand. They work great as a duo with a clear attraction that’s impeded by a secret, and we’d really appreciate it if we could watch him warm her butter and make her tea in a movie that sees them as fully coupled characters.

Constance Wu And Henry Golding

I cannot tell a lie; some of the reason for Constance Wu and Henry Golding making the list is simply because we are all dying for the Crazy Rich Asians sequel we’ve been promised for several years now. While we wait, I’m hoping we can at least get those two into another fun rom-com where he can bring his posh, suave energy to meet her adorably spunky, girl-next-door verve.

Emma Stone And Ryan Gosling

What’s not to love about Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, especially when they star opposite each other in a romantic story? They were sweet, sexy, bantery, and slightly goofy together in Crazy, Stupid, Love, then had all of that with more emotional depth in La La Land, and also had the same chemistry in Gangster Squad, but with an added veneer of danger. It’s been a rough few years; the world needs more of their exact thing, OK?

Kate Hudson And Matthew McConaughey

I know, I know! Matthew McConaughey doesn’t make rom-coms anymore, but that’s honestly no reason why he can’t re-team with Kate Hudson, 20 years after they first hit the screen together in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days. The engaging push-and-pull of their romance in that film can easily be translated to, say, a movie where each is portraying a lawyer on the opposite side of a big murder case. There! Someone make that movie!

Queen Latifah And Common

Just Wright might not be the first movie you think of when it comes to Queen Latifah or romantic comedies, but it’s hard to deny that watching her play off of Common as they slowly go from not-quite-enemies to lovers was a genuine treat. Now all we need is the right vehicle for them so their individual easygoing charm can show us how well-matched they are on screen.

Jennifer Garner And Mark Ruffalo

There’s a reason that 13 Going On 30 is still so popular almost two decades later. That reason is Jennifer Garner’s joyful, weirdo energy as a teen suddenly transplanted to her adult life, sure, but it’s also how Mark Ruffalo calmly reconnects with the childhood friend he’d long ago lost touch with. They're just sweet together, OK? We saw them in The Adam Project. We need more!

Sandra Bullock And Channing Tatum

The luminous and hilarious pairing of Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum was definitely not on my rom-com bingo card, but damn, it was a joy to behold once we got it. In The Lost City, they were perfect as a starchy and grieving romance novelist and her incredibly sweet but somewhat dim cover model who get caught in a life-or-death situation in the jungle, and all I can hope for is that we someday have a sequel to enjoy.

Billy Eichner And Luke Macfarlane

If an opposites attract energy is your thing, there’s no way for you not to enjoy the pairing of Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane. The Bros stars only just met up on screen in 2022, but we’d love to see them reunite in a rom-com that switches Eichner’s intense characterization and Macfarlane’s laid-back vibe around for additional laughs.

Meg Ryan And Hugh Jackman

Kate & Leopold is the rare romance where Meg Ryan’s character is less than sweet for much of the film, but watching her early ‘00s driven career woman begin to soften with the attentions of Hugh Jackman’s fancy man from the 1870s was a delight. Now if we can just get them to play off of one another when both are from the modern day, all will be right in the world.

Anne Hathaway And Chris Pine

We all know that The Princess Diaries 2 is so beloved that fans have wanted to bring the cast back for the now in development third movie for nearly 20 years, and part of that was because of the sweet, (sorta) slow burn love story between Anne Hathaway and Chris Pine’s characters. While everyone would love to see them as a long-married couple in a sequel, we’d also take them as, oh, I don’t know, bickering co-workers who can’t deny their attraction, so let’s stop stalling and get this coupling back on the big screen!

Julia Roberts And Hugh Grant

Look, I know that Hugh Grant is fully in his slimy villain era right now and is hilariously against even attempting rom-coms again. But! I think that makes the potential of this Notting Hill pairing coming back together even more appealing. Let him play a con-man who tricks Julia Roberts into falling in love, only to steal all her money and force her to track him down with a hilarious vengeance. I’d buy a ticket for that, OK?

Jennifer Lopez And George Clooney

Sure, sure. I’m cheating this entry a bit because, technically, Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney didn't star in a traditional rom-com together, but who among us can deny that they were HOT in Out of Sight? No one, that’s who! I say we get these two into a proper romantic comedy, but maybe one that’s not another Lopez wedding movie, just to switch things up.

Sanaa Lathan And Omar Epps 

Yes, this is another, more direct, fudging of this article’s concept, because Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps were a romantic drama pairing in Love & Basketball… but they were SO GOOD TOGETHER. Watching them play out a long-term path to eventual happiness was extremely satisfying, but maybe this time we can use that chemistry of theirs for a couple that has more good times than stressful ones.

Cristin Milioti And Andy Samberg

The chances that Cristin Milioti and Andy Samberg will strike time loop movie gold again after Palm Springs is incredibly unlikely, and we wouldn’t want them to try. Instead, why not let these two portray criminals on the run for separate crimes who accidentally cross paths and fall in love while they’re on the lam? They can give us that same adorably wacky enthusiasm that we all loved the first time around that way!

Kristen Stewart And Aubrey Plaza

If you saw Happiest Season, then you saw the undeniable spark between Kristen Stewart and Aubrey Plaza as their characters (Who weren’t even dating!) dealt with a lot of toxicity during Christmastime. They managed to genuinely bond (and look great doing it) over their similar relationship trauma, so I say we go ahead and give these two an even bubblier romantic comedy where they can actually freakin’ end up as a couple! 

Gemma Chan And Harry Shum Jr. 

Obviously, we didn’t get a real romance between the characters played by Gemma Chan and Harry Shum Jr. in Crazy Rich Asians, but the movie sure did set up the promise of fulfilling the epic love story that was a part of Kevin Kwan’s novel trilogy. Fans got a very brief scene of them looking all cute and dreamy with each other and dancing during the mid-credits scene, so hear me now: WE NEED THAT ASTRID AND CHARLIE SPINOFF, ASAP!

Issa Rae And Kumail Nanjiani

It may be hard to cast two people who have perfect romantic chemistry, but it could be even harder to find a duo who can portray the first glorious blush of falling in love, that same couple once they’ve begun to fall apart, and then play them as they start to get closer… because they’re on the run after being accused of murder. Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani are those people, and we’ve been wanting them back on screen since The Lovebirds to do something just as crazy and rom-commy again.

Reese Witherspoon And Josh Lucas

If you’re looking for a bickering duo who are hot together no matter what, that’s Sweet Home Alabama’s Reese Witherspoon and Josh Lucas, for sure. I’m sure they’d be great doing anything on screen, but also doubt anyone would mind if they paired for a story that would let them fight (and fight through) their attraction until they finally admit their feelings for each other.

Rachel McAdams And Domhnall Gleeson

You know what’s coming, right? After being apart for a decade, it’s About Time that Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson join forces again to bring fans another lovey dovey couple, and we don’t even care what the set up is!

Sarah Hyland And Tyler James Williams

Never has it been more enjoyable to watch a woman who’s not sure about the whole marriage thing date a man who’s very much ready for a long-term commitment than in The Wedding Year, and that was because of the well-matched chemistry/comedic energy of Sarah Hyland and Tyler James Williams. I think these two would be fantastic in an action/adventure rom-com like The Lost City!

Kristen Bell And Dustin Milligan 

Though Kristen Bell and Dustin Milligan starred in The People We Hate at the Wedding, which was more of a straight ahead comedy, they had a definite romantic comedy storyline and played off of each other beautifully. I’m imagining a cinematic rematch for them that involves both of their characters being messy and a bit angry this time, and I think they’ll be a delight to watch once again.

Vivian Oparah And David Jonsson

Even though Vivian Oparah and David Jonsson are a very new rom-com pairing, as their starring vehicle, Rye Lane, debuted in early 2023, there’s no doubting the fizzy joy one gets from watching their characters meet cute and end up slowly becoming attracted to each other over the course of one eventful day. These two can do anything together next, but I don’t think anyone would mind a sequel where we get to see this romance progress!

If nothing else, while we wait to see if these rom-com partners get back together on the big screen, we can all at least go back and enjoy the amazing films they’ve already given us!

Barbie’s plot has been kept tightly under wraps amid Warner Bros.' first round of promotion. Of course, that doesn't seem to have hindered the movie from earning major buzz. The latest trailer gave fans a thrill with Margot Robbie's fabulous pink looks, and many have also been swooning over Ryan Gosling's Ken and his holy abs. Despite that excitement though, some are still looking for more specific story details. Issa Rae, who’ll be playing one of the many Barbies in the movie, has been aiming to avoid dropping spoilers and, during her latest attempt, she humorously dropped an f-bomb.

While we don't know much about Barbie, the trailer suggests that Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling's characters are going to take a trip of sorts (with the latter even bringing his rollerblades). One of the posters also revealed that Issa Rae's version of the beloved doll is a president of sorts. However, don’t expect Rae to spill anything,  as she wouldn't even further confirm that while speaking to People about Greta Gerwig's upcoming movie:

I'd say that this is probably a smart move on the actress' part, and the f-bomb puts a funny and firm exclamation point on the comedian's decision not to get into serious details. And personally, I don't mind being surprised when I sit down in the theater to watch the film. It should also be said that even if she could talk about the movie, it may be a bit too complex to put into words. Issa Rae previously said she didn’t fully understand Barbie's plot when it was pitched during her first meeting with Greta Gerwig. However, that didn’t stop the Insecure actress from agreeing to be part of this big-screen event, and she adds a firm level of star power to an already-stacked cast.

Franchise devotees have not been holding back their excitement for one of the biggest titles of the schedule of 2023 new movie releases. After those great cast posters dropped, fans began making their own one-sheets with icons like Zendaya. Not only that but, after the second trailer dropped, many began obsessing over Margot Robbie’s flawless feet again. Like all of them, Issa Rae is also pumped about the flick:

Issa Rae has proven herself to be a formidable comedic talent, and that might be a major reason why Greta Gerwig tapped her for a role. I'm curious to learn more about her character and am confident that she'll nail the role, whatever it ends up entailing. With the movie set to release in just a few months, we may learn more about what we can expect from the movie. But based on this latest convo, we can probably expect only further deflections -- and maybe another funny f-bomb or two -- from Rae ahead of the premiere.

You can check out Barbie when it finally opens in theaters on July 21st.

Not much is known about the Barbie movie outside of a few comments from stars like Will Ferrell and Simu Liu. One actor who hasn’t spoken about their role is Insecure star Issa Rae. In the live-action adaptation, Rae will play another Barbie outside of lead star Margot Robbie, but she hasn’t spilled any information about the film. Having wrapped up earlier this year, the Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse star admitted to being confused by the script at first before filming with director Greta Gerwig.

Appearing in one of 2023's upcoming movies was right up Rae’s alley as she loves a good ensemble piece, as evidenced by her appearing in B.J. Novak’s comedy Vengeance early this year. But joining the live-action Barbie was more about reconnecting with Gerwig after the two creatives met years earlier. So, when the toy-to-film adaptation came around, the Lovebirds star jumped at the chance to take a meeting with the Oscar-nominated director. But things didn’t start so well, as Rae explained being put off by Gerwig’s pitch at first.

Issa Rae’s initial recount to Variety about the script makes you wonder what the Little Women director has in store for Barbie fans. At least the writer-producer was upfront about her doubts about the screenplay, which Simu Liu praised earlier this year. But who better share their opinion than the creator of Insecure? She has written countless hours of content between her online work and TV shows, including the HBO Max comedy Rap Sh!t. But once she read the script, her doubts subsided and she joined the Barbie cast.

The fashion doll’s world is filled with endless possibilities. Barbie and co. have lived many lives since the doll came to prominence in 1959. But the synopsis for the live-action film painted a shell-shocked Barbie and Ken entering the real world away from their typical surroundings. If the leaked photos of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling are any indications, moviegoers are in for a fun time.

Of course, Issa Rae didn’t spill anything about her role. She kept the same energy when it came to voicing Jessica Drew in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. The multihyphenate played coy with the rumors before the news was confirmed. The animated film is set to premiere a month before Barbie hits theaters. Until both films arrive next year, there are still new movies left to drop in 2022.

Actor Ezra Miller has been in the public eye from a young age, but recently made countless headlines over the past few months thanks to troubling behavior in Hawaii and other locations, resulting in a few arrests. This seemed to put the fate of DC’s Flash movie in jeopardy, before the actor eventually issued an apology and sought out treatment for mental health issues. And Insecure’s Issa Rae is calling out Hollywood for enabling Miller in the wake of various controversies and arrests.

While Ezra Miller has been quiet since starting treatment, there was a period of months where the Fantastic Beasts actor was constantly in the news for their startling behavior. Namely multiple arrests in Hawaii, which resulted in headlines, a restraining order, and even viral videos. But it looks like The Flash is still moving toward its release, and Issa Rae recently got honest with Elle about how she felt the studio was protecting Miller. In her words:

Well, she certainly didn’t mince words. It looks like Issa Rae has a serious problem with the way Ezra Miller was seemingly welcomed back to the fold following their various controversies and legal issues. And she’s citing it as a reason why Hollywood still has much more to learn in the way it advocates for victims, compared to people of power. 

Issa Rae’s comments to Elle come from a larger conversation about her career, and Hollywood as a whole. While discussing the #MeToo movement and holding folks accountable, she eventually brought up the various controversies surrounding Ezra Miller. And she seemingly sees his comeback as a dangerous precedent for the entertainment industry, which is still in the process of advocating for victims and changing policies. 

Ezra Miller’s controversies start from back in 2020, where a video of them choking a woman circulated online. But things really heated up a few years later in March 2022, where the Perks of Being a Wallflower actor was arrested in Hawaii for disorderly conduct and harassment. Their time on the islands would be full of more starling incidents, including a second-degree assault charge. They were also involved in further controversies surrounding behavior on their farm, their relationship with teenage advocate Takota Iron Eyes, and an August felony burglary charge. 

But while fans debated whether or not this would derail either the Flash movie (which was filmed ahead of the 2022 issues), it seems that Warner Bros. is moving forward with the ambitious project, as Ezra Miller began treatment for “complex mental health issues.”

The Flash is expected to arrive in theaters on June 23rd, 2023, so time will only tell how the situation with Ezra Miller unfolds. In the meantime, check out the 2022 movie release dates to plan your next movie experience. 

When Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse came out in 2018, the world was shook by the stellar storytelling, groundbreaking animation and slew of unique characters. Now, nearly five years later we have finally gotten the aptly titled sequel: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and along with its incredible story and action, it also features a top-tier voice cast.

The movie has 240 unique characters in the background of the multiverse as Miles and his friends and family try to save it… again. The sequel will focus on Miles and his relationships with a few characters specifically. We’ll see the return of some fan favorites, as well as get to know some new and exciting characters. Here is a list of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse's cast members.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore came back to play the Spider-verse saga's beloved main character, as confirmed by Across the Spider-Verse's first trailer. We met Miles Morales in Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse and watched as he evolved from a student into a Spider-Man, with the help of three Peter Parkers, Gwen Stacy, Spider-Ham, Peni Parker and his dad Jefferson. Miles fought off Kingpin and saved the world from falling into the multiverse.

While Moore is best known for his role in the Academy Award-winning animated movie, he also starred in the 2015 movie Dope. His other credits include Netflix originals like The Get Down series and the movie Let It Snow, as well as the series Wu-Tang: An American Saga.

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld made her return to the Spider-Verse as Gwen Stacy in the upcoming sequel to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse, as confirmed in the trailer. Gwen, also known as Spider-Gwen, is not from Miles’ universe, but helped him fix his it in the first movie. 

Steinfeld has been extremely busy. Before the first Spider-Verse movie, she was known for her roles in True Grit, Pitch Perfect 2 and The Edge of Seventeen. Since the animated movie, she has been on a few popular series, including Arcane and Dickinson, which can be watched with a Netflix subscription and  Apple TV+ subscription, respectively. She also made her live-action MCU debut in the Disney+ series Hawkeye as Kate Bishop. 

Oscar Isaac

Making his first appearance in the post-credits scene of Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse Oscar Isaac joined the franchise as Miguel O’Hara, also known as Spider-Man 2099. Isaac reprised his role as a version of Spider-Man from the future. He explained in an interview with ScreenRant that his character is hilarious because he has absolutely no sense of humor. 

From indie films to massive franchises, Isaac has done a little bit of everything. Earlier in his career, he was known for smaller, yet acclaimed hits like Ex Machina and Inside Llewyn Davis. He has also starred as Poe Dameron in the latest trilogy of Star Wars movies, played Duke Leto Atreides in Dune and donned a live-action cape to lead the cast of Marvel’s Disney+ series Moon Knight. 

Jake Johnson

Peter B. Parker came crashing (literally) into Miles’ life in the first movie. He became a grumbly and goofy mentor to Miles throughout the film, all while trying to deal with a personal life crisis of his own. Luckily, this isn’t the last we’ve seen of the slightly down-on-his-luck version of Peter Parker, because Jake Johnson confirmed his reprisal of the role. He explained that he hadn’t heard from the studio for a while, and he would have been “heartbroken” if he couldn’t be involved. Once he got the call he was ecstatic and said he couldn't wait to see what Peter B. Parker is up to in the web-slinging sequel.  

Johnson is best known for his role as Nick Miller on the Fox comedy New Girl. He has also starred in a lot of smaller movies, like Drinking Buddies, and Safety Not Guaranteed. Most recently, he starred in Minx, which can be watched with an HBO Max subscription. 

Jason Schwartzman

After the directors teased the villain of Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, it was later officially announced that this villain is The Spot, and he would be played by Jason Schwartzman. In the comics, The Spot started out as Dr. Jonathan Ohnn who worked for Wilson Fisk, also known as Kingpin. He gained his powers after the collider exploded in the first movie, and they allow him to travel between dimensions via portals. 

Jason Schwartzman is probably best known for his work with Wes Anderson. He has starred in Anderson’s films Rushmore, The Darjeeling Limited and Moonrise Kingdom, and he also made a brief appearance in The Grand Budapest Hotel. Schwartzman has also appeared in Fargo Season 4, and he is set to play Lucretius “Lucky” Flickerman in the film adaptation of The Hunger Games prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.  

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry plays Miles' dad Jefferson in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and he was confirmed by Variety to return for the sequel. Jefferson is a cop and he does not like Spider-Man. However, Miles saves his dad at the end of the movie, and it seems like Jefferson's view on the web-slinger may be changing. 

Brian Tyree Henry has been busy since his first go around as Jefferson. He has continued to star in the FX hit show Atlanta, which is currently in its final season. He also made his live-action MCU debut as Phastos in Eternals and starred in the action-comedy Bullet Train earlier this summer. 

Daniel Kaluuya

We found out via a toy release that Spider-Punk would make an appearance in the film, and then it was confirmed that Daniel Kaluuya would be voicing the rock 'n roll Spider-variant. 

Spider-Punk’s name is Hobie Brown, and in the comics, his signature weapon is his guitar. When the casting announcement was made, it was also revealed that Kaluuya's character would be  “a homeless teenager who becomes a hero to the oppressed citizens of New York in his dimensional universe," according to THR.

This will mark Kaluuya's second project in the world of Marvel, as he played W'Kabi in the 2018 hit Black Panther. He has also made a name for himself by way of Jordan Peele's movies Nope and Get Out, which he earned an Oscar nomination for. Speaking of the Academy Awards, the actor won one in 2021 for his role in Judas and the Black Messiah.  

Issa Rae

Issa Rae has entered the Spider-Verse as Jessica Drew in the upcoming sequel. Jessica Drew, also known as Spider-Woman, is a Spider-person who works for Miguel O'Hara and serves as a mentor for Gwen.

Issa Rae came to fame with her YouTube series Awkward Black Girl. She is best known for her work on the HBO show Insecure. She created the show, starred in it and both wrote and executive produced it. She has also appeared in A Black Lady Sketch Show, Lovebirds, and The Photograph. Currently she is an executive producer on Rap Sh!t. 

Luna Lauren Velez - Rio Morales

In Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, we didn’t see much of Miles’ mom, Rio. But Luna Lauren Velez told ComicBookMovie that her character will have a bigger role in the sequel, and she does. We see in the first movie that Rio is a nurse and loves her son dearly, and in the sequel we get a closer look at her relationship with her son and husband.

The actress voicing Rio, Luna Lauren Velez, is probably best known for her work on the Showtime hit Dexter, where she played Maria LaGuerta. She has also appeared in various shows like Oz, Ugly Betty and How to Get Away With Murder. 

Rachel Dratch - Principal

In the first movie, we see Miles transfer into the Brooklyn Visions Academy, which is a prestigious private school. While we meet a few of his teachers, we had yet to meet the principal. Rachel Dratch leads the high school in the sequel, which obviously led to some hilarious interactions between Miles and his principal. 

Rachel Dratch is best known for her time on Saturday Night Live and her characters like Debbie Downer. Since SNL, Dratch has been working consistently with supporting roles in Just Go With It, Click, and Spring Breakdown. Recently, she has appeared in Plan B and I Love My Dad, along with voice acting roles in Teen Titans Go! and Harley Quinn. 

Shea Whigham

When we met Gwen in the first movie, she was alone and not in her universe. In this movie, we got a closer look into her personal life, because Shea Whigham has been cast as her dad, George Stacy. The character is most frequently depicted as a captain of the New York City Police Department. 

Shea Whigham is probably best known for his work on two popular HBO shows, Perry Mason and Boardwalk Empire. He also appeared in the FX anthology series Fargo. Whigham has also shown up in multiple Fast & Furious movies, and he is set to appear in both parts of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning. 

 Jorma Taccone  

Announced at the same time as Schwartzman and Whigham, Jorma Taccone plays The Vulture in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. The Vulture is an iconic Spider-Man villain, most recently shown on film when Michael Keaton played him in Spider-Man: Homecoming. The Vulture is the alias for Adrian Toomes who is a brilliant engineer. The character is a long-time and classic foe of the Web-Slinger and was one of the founding members of the Sinister Six. This version has been described as a Renaissance-inspired criminal with an Italian accent.

Taccone is likely best known as one-third of the comedy music group The Lonely Island, which also includes Andy Samberg and Akiva Schaffer. The movie Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping was written by the three dudes of The Lonely Island, and was directed by Schaffer and Taccone.

Andy Samberg

Announced on The Lonely Island's Instagram, it was revealed that Andy Samberg, another member of the comedic rap trio, joined the Spider-Verse. It's been confirmed by the movie's Twitter account that the actor plays Ben Reilly/Scarlet Spider in the upcoming movie.

Both Samberg and Taccone worked with Phil Lord and Chris Miller on The LEGO Movie as they wrote the song "Everything is Awesome," so it's not all that surprising that they are both popping up in this Spider-Man movie. Aside from The Lonely Island, Andy Samberg is best known for his work on Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Saturday Night Live. 

Karan Soni

Pavitr Prabhakar has entered the Spider-Verse, and he is voiced by Karan Soni, per THR. This character is a new one in the world of Spider-Man movies, but he's been swinging around the comics for a while. 

You might recognize Soni from a small role he had in Deadpool as Dopinder the cab driver, where he assisted the merc with a mouth by driving him to battle. He's also appeared in other shows like Miracle Workers, and has done a lot of voice work on series like Big Mouth, Mira, Royal Detective and Trolls Holiday in Harmony. 

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg was confirmed as Spider-Byte in a thread on Twitter about the cast of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Her character Margo created a spider-powered avatar so she could fight in cyberspace.

Stenberg broke onto the scene as Rue in The Hunger Games, and has gone on to star in movies like The Hate U Give and Bodies Bodies Bodies. Along with joining the Marvel world, she'll also be flying into the Star Wars universe in the upcoming series The Acolyte. 

This installment of the Spider-Verse franchise is just as epic as the first, and that's in part thanks to the stellar cast and some exciting new characters. While Across the Spider-Verse has been delayed a few times, it made a splash on the 2023 movie schedule, and now the wait has begun for Beyond The Spider-Verse. 

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is now available to buy and rent. 

Movie studios are always looking for ways to hedge their financial bets and to guarantee, as much as possible, that any film project will be a success. Anything with name recognition is fair game, which is why so many movies are sequels to previous hits or films based on comic books, video games, or even board games. Knowing this, it probably shouldn't have come as a shock that somebody decided to make a Barbie movie.

Yet, what the Barbie movie has become is somewhat shocking. Barbie was directed by Oscar-nominee Greta Gerwig, based on a script co-written by her and her longtime writing partner Noah Baumbach. From the moment that became known expectations of Barbie as a “popcorn movie” shifted to something else entirely. 

What we got was still a fun summer blockbuster, but one that had a lot more going on. It clearly resonated with fans as Barbie went on to become the second film of 2023 to make $1 billion at the global box office. It's become just as big a hit now that it has arrived on Digital platforms and Blu-ray. While the filmmakers behind the camera deserve a lot of credit, one cannot overlook the incredible cast.

Margot Robbie 

You can’t have a Barbie movie without Barbie, and while the film previously had Amy Schumer and then Anne Hathaway attached in the title role at various points, Margot Robbie was the Barbie that got the movie made. Robbie was probably best known today for her role as Harley Quinn in three DC movies, including 2021's The Suicide Squad. She’s also a two-time Oscar nominee for her supporting role in the Fox News drama Bombshell and her lead role in the dark comedy biopic I, Tonya.

Ryan Gosling 

Barbie needs her Ken, and while Hollywood has no shortage of actors who could pass for a live-action Ken doll, Ryan Gosling took on the role of Barbie’s boyfriend. Unlike the character's namesake doll, the Barbie movie was as much about Ken as it was Barbie, with Gosling's character functionally playing the villain, if a hapless one. It was an incredible performance that actually has people talking about an Oscar nomination for Gosling. 

Will Ferrell 

While Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling have played comedy and drama in equal measure, a few of the other casting announcements from Barbie had a decidedly comedic slant. None among them exemplified this more so than Will Ferrell. Will Ferrell played the CEO of the toy company Mattel, the company that owns Barbie. While Ferrell's character was as silly as the actor usually is, he's also one of the few people who knows what's going on when Ken and Barbie cross over to the real world from Barbie World. 

Simu Liu 

It wasn’t all that long ago that Simu Liu was a moderately famous person in a well-received comedy, but now he’s a Marvel hero and a global superstar. Simu Liu went from Kim’s Convenience to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings to Barbie, where played another Ken, a sort of foil for Gosling's character, as both competed for the affection of Robbie's Barbie, even if they didn't really understand why. 

America Ferrera 

Fans of the NBC comedy Superstore or the cult hit ABC series Ugly Betty will require no introduction to America Ferrera. On the big screen, she was a member of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, as well as the voice of Astrid in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise from DreamWorks Animation. In Barbie, she plays one of the key human characters, who inadvertently causes the problems for Barbie that lead her into the human world.

Kate McKinnon 

Kate McKinnon is set to join her Bombshell co-star Margot Robbie, as she will also be part of the Barbie movie. McKinnon is, of course, best known for her long run on Saturday Night Live. On the big screen, she appeared in the Ghostbusters reboot, but has also done a significant amount of voice work in animated films and TV, from Pixar’s Finding Dory to Netflix’s The Magic School Bus. As "Weird Barbie" McKinnon suffered the fate that so many children's toys often do, though that turned her into a sort of sage.

Michael Cera 

Michael Cera jumped onto a lot of people’s radar back in 2007 thanks to his roles in both Superbad and Juno. From there, he has appeared in cult hits like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and actual box office hits like The LEGO Batman Movie. He’s probably best known for his role as George-Michael Bluth in Arrested Development. In Barbie Cera played Alan, the only male resident of Barbie Land who was not Ken. He's designed to be second fiddle, but he steals every scene he's in.

Helen Mirren

One potential surprise in the Barbie cast came from a character who was heard, but never seen. Hellen Mirren narrated the first Barbie trailer, but that wasn't a one-off deal. She actually narrated the entire film, and also had some of the best jokes in the movie, including a hilarious Barbie F-bomb that was cut from the script.

Emma Mackey 

Emma Mackey is something of a newcomer with only a handful of credits to her name to date, but in a short time, she has become a pretty big star. She’s one of three cast members from Netflix’s Sex Education to join Barbie, and she was recently part of the star-studded cast of Kenneth Branagh's Death on the Nile. Mackey portrayed yet another Barbie.

Ncuti Gatwa 

One of Emma Mackay’s co-stars on Sex Education who will be part of Barbie is Ncuti Gatwa, and while Barbie will no doubt mark the young actor’s biggest role on the big screen to date when it is released, it’s clear Gatwa has a bright future. He's been cast as the new Doctor in BBC’s Doctor Who, taking over the role from Jodie Whittaker. Gatwa will be the first person of color to lead the series, and the second Black actor to play The Doctor following Jo Martin's recurring run as the Fugitive Doctor. Gatwa played yet another Ken from Barbie Land.

Connor Swindells

Connor Swindells finishes out the Sex Education cast trifecta. We don’t know anything more about his role in Barbie than we do his other two cast-mates, so whether or not any of them will even cross paths is a mystery. If nothing else, it’s a testament to the casting of the Netflix series. Swindells appears in Barbie as Aaron Dinkins, a Mattel employee who has the unfortunate task of informing the company that Barbie has gone rogue.

Alexandra Shipp 

Marvel fans know Alexandra Shipp for playing the younger version of Storm in the last couple of X-Men movies produced under Fox pre-Disney. More recently, she played Susan, the love interest of Andrew Garfield's Jonathan Larson, in Tick…Tick…Boom! for Netflix. She appeared in Barbie as yet another Barbie.

Issa Rae 

Issa Rae is a successful writer, producer, and actress, and her name has only become more recognizable since the success of HBO show Insecure. As big a name as she has become, however, 2023 is getting ready to be perhaps her biggest year to date. Not only did she appear as a Barbie in the Barbie movie, but she also voiced the Jessica Drew version of Spider-Woman in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse the same summer. 

Kingsley Ben-Adir 

Kingsley Ben-Adir is an actor you’ll recognize if you’re a fan of Peaky Blinders or if you happened to catch the short-lived High Fidelity series on Hulu. His highest profile role was playing Malcolm X in the Oscar-nominated One Night in Miami, but Ben-Adir is probably a lot more recognizable now. At the same time that he played a Ken in the Barbie movie, he was also in Marvel’s Secret Invasion series on Disney+. 

Ariana Greenblatt 

Ariana Greenblatt is one of many young stars to get her start at the House of Mouse. She had a regular series role on the Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle. Since then, she’s made a somewhat unusual habit of playing the “young” version of several major franchise characters, like young Gamora in Avengers: Infinity War, young Velma in Scoob and young Nina in In the Heights. Greenblatt played Sasha, the daughter to America Ferrara's character, who once played with Barbie, but has since grown out of the dolls. 

Rhea Perlman 

Rhea Perlman will always be known first and foremost for her role as waitress Carla on the hit NBC sitcom Cheers. If you feel like you haven’t seen her in TV or movies as much recently, it’s possibly because you’ve heard her much more. Perlman has done a lot of voice-over work, including the voice of Cid in Disney+’s animated Star Wars: The Clone Wars spinoff The Bad Batch. Perlman had a small but vital role in Barbie as Ruth, and if you don't know more than that, we're not spoiling it.

John Cena

Of all the actors who play Ken in Barbie, John Cena is perhaps the most entertaining. He only appears in a couple of brief scenes, but the fact that he plays a merman version of Ken is hilarious in itself. It becomes that much funnier when we learn Cena was apparently just in the neighborhood, and filmed a cameo for fun.

Emerald Fennell 

Emerald Fennell is best known today for her work behind the camera, particularly as the Oscar-winning writer of Promising Young Woman, as much as she's known for her acting. Fennell has nearly two dozen acting credits to her name, including playing Nurse Patsy Mount in Call the Midwife and as Camila Parker Bowles on Netflix’s The Crown. She played Midge in Barbie, a discontinued member of the toy lineup.

Jamie Demetriou 

With more than 60 acting credits to his name in less than a decade, Jamie Demetriou has been a quite prolific performer, and his breadth of appearances is such that you have almost certainly seen him somewhere. He's had roles in everything from Disney’s Cruella to Paddington 2 to Hulu’s The Great. Most recently, he played the role of Walt on Apple TV+’s hit series The Afterparty. He appears in Barbie as one of the Mattel executives.

Ritu Arya 

Ritu Arya has had roles in the BBC’s Sherlock and Doctor Who, but she’s become a more familiar face to US audiences thanks to a pair of appearances on Netflix. She played Inspector Urvashi Das, the character chasing after Dwayne Johnson and Ryan Reynolds' characters, in Red Notice, and she’s also Lila Pitts on The Umbrella Academy. She joined the parade of Barbies in the movie.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef has more than two dozen acting credits to her name including appearances including Amazon's Transparent and Netflix's You. She had a role in the pilot of the L.A. Law reboot that we'll now never see. She appeared in Barbie as another of the Barbie characters.

Sharon Rooney

Sharon Rooney will look much more familiar to audiences in the UK, following turns in series like My Mad Fat Diary, Brief Encounters and Two Doors Down. U.S. audiences will know her best from the live-action remake of Disney's Dumbo, where she played the role of Miss Atlantis, the woman who sings the iconic song "Baby Mine." She appears in Barbie as Barbie. But not that Barbie, the other Barbie.

Scott Evans

Scott Evans spent two years on the soap opera One Life to Live on ABC. He's also played small roles in a number of TV shows and movies including appearances in Law & Order, Peter Jackson's The Lovely Bones, and White Collar. More recently, he played Oliver in Netflix's Grace & Frankie. He's part of the army of Kens found of Barbie Land.

Ana Cruz Kanye

Ana Cruz Kayne will be reuniting with Greta Gerwig when she appears in the Barbie movie. Kayne previously appeared in Little Women. She'll be appearing soon in Painkiller, a limited series starring Mathew Broderick focusing on the birth of the opioid crisis. She is yet another Barbie.

With a cast this extensive and utterly impressive, we knew Barbie was likely to be a lot of fun. However, there was no way to know what a massive hit the film would become. The story resonated was audiences in a bit way, on its way to incredible box office success. Now you can enjoy Barbie as much as you want at home as well.

In my opinion, the best anthology TV series have a specific running theme, such as how Netflix’s Black Mirror focuses primarily on technophobia and Modern Love on Amazon Prime is all about romance. The recurring topic in Roar, an Apple TV+ original based on a book of short stories by Cecelia Ahern, is the role that women play in the modern world.

Showrunners Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch, previously known for creating Netflix’s GLOW, have employed a diverse and universally renowned ensemble of extremely talented women to lead each of the eight intense, surreal, and even absurd stories featured in the unique program’s premiere season. The following is an inside look at who each member of the Roar cast is playing and a brief summary of their careers so far, starting with one actress audiences should easily recognize.

Nicole Kidman (Robin)

Playing a woman mysteriously compelled to eat photographs in her episode of Roar is Nicole Kidman, who was last part of a star-studded, predominantly female ensemble when she was cast on HBO’s Big Little Lies. She has also had a prominent small screen presence recently as the lead of HBO’s limited drama series, The Undoing, and the Nine Perfect Strangers cast for Hulu.

After launching her career in an '80s movie with 1983’s Australian cult classic, BMX Bandits, Kidman mastered every genre imaginable, from superhero movies (Batman Forever and, later, Aquaman), musicals (most notably Moulin Rouge) to historical dramas like The Hours - which earned her an Oscar in 2003. In 2022, she earned an Oscar nom for playing Lucille Ball in Being the Ricardos and, reunited with her Big Little Lies husband, Alexander Skarsgård, as his mother in Robert Eggers’ The Northman.

Cynthia Erivo (Ambia)

Playing a workaholic wife and mother who suddenly finds strange bite marks appearing on her skin in her episode of Roar is Cynthia Erivo, who was last part of a predominantly female ensemble when she made her film debut in 2018’s Widows. In 2020, the singer-songwriter earned two Oscar nominations for the historical biopic Harriet - one for playing the title role and another for co-writing and performing the original song, “Stand Up.”

She was also in the star-studded cast of 2018’s Bad Times at the El Royale and portrayed recurring Stephen King character Holly Gibney in the HBO miniseries The Outsider in 2020. The next year, Erivo appeared in two fantasy dramas - Chaos Walking and Needle in a Timestack - and received an Emmy nod for playing Aretha Franklin on National Geographic’s historical anthology series, Genius.

Merritt Wever (Elisa)

Playing a woman who finds the romantic connection she had been looking for with a duck in her episode of Roar is Merritt Wever, who was last part of a predominantly female ensemble in 2017 on Netflix’s Western miniseries Godless, for which she earned her second Emmy. She won her first Emmy in 2013 when she received her second nomination for her performance on Nurse Jackie as Zoey Barkow.

Her other prestigious TV credits including a couple of episodes of The Wire, a recurring role among the New Girl cast, and a memorable stint on The Walking Dead. You may have also seen Wever on the big screen in M. Night Shyamalan’s Signs, Robert Zemeckis’ partially animated biopic, Welcome to Marwen, and several Oscar darlings - including 2007’s Michael Clayton, Birdman from 2014, and another Netflix original, Marriage Story, in 2019.  

Alison Brie (Becky)

Playing the ghost of a woman forced to solve her own murder in her episode of Roar is Alison Brie, who was last part of a predominantly female ensemble as the lead of GLOW. She has also been part of a few other iconic TV ensembles - namely a recurring role with the Mad Men cast and in the Community cast as Annie Edison.

The Hollywood native also leant her voice to The LEGO Movie and its sequel as Unikitty and multiple BoJack Horseman characters, worked with Steven Spielberg on The Post, and her role in the Promising Young Woman cast contributed to a few of the thriller’s most intense moments. Brie is also a bit of a Scream Queen for popping up in Scream 4, leading Netflix’s Horse Girl, and starring in The Rental - also her second collaboration with her husband, co-writer and director Dave Franco, after The Disaster Artist.

Betty Gilpin (Amelia)

Playing a woman, literally, put on a display shelf by her husband in her episode of Roar is Betty Gilpin, who last worked with Merritt Wever on Nurse Jackie and with Alison Brie on GLOW as Debbie Eagan. The latter role earned her three Emmy nominations and made her a go-to for playing badass women - such as Crystal in the 2020 action-horror film, The Hunt and Commander Taylor Fullerton on the Spotify original sci-fi audio drama Red Frontier.

She also had a recurring role on Showtime’s Masters of Sex and CBS’ Elementary in 2016, and plays Maureen Kane Dean in Starz’s scandalous, fact-based drama, Gaslit, in 2022. Gilpin is also known for movies like 2015’s True Story, the 2019 rom-com send-up Isn’t It Romantic, and, surprisingly, not playing one of the time-traveling soldiers in The Tomorrow War cast in the 2021 sci-fi flick.

Meera Syal (Anu)

Playing a woman who, literally, returns her husband as if he were a retail item in her episode of Roar is Meera Syal, who has been a part of many great ensembles since making her debut in the 1984 drama, Majdhar. The English actress and writer would go on to secure starring roles, make guest appearances, and land recurring spots on classic UK series like Absolutely Fabulous, Broadchurch, Doctor Who, or The Kumars at No. 42, to name just a few.

Syal also had a major part on HBO’s short-lived political satire The Brink, leant her voice to a few episodes of Disney Channel’s Phineas and Ferb, and would write, produce, and star in the autobiographical dramedy, Anita and Me, in 2002. Some of her other notable and more recent cinematic credits include the 2009 fantasy comedy, Absolutely Anything, the 2016 action-fantasy, Doctor Strange, the 2017 family fantasy, Paddington 2, and the musical fantasy Yesterday from 2019.

Fivel Stewart (Jane)

Playing a woman seeking vengeance in the Old West in her episode of Roar is Fivel Stewart, who became part of two strong ensemble casts in the same year - starring on the acclaimed teen web series T@gged and Netflix’s coming-of-age drama Atypical in 2018. However, the actress and singer has been in show business since childhood, during which she would juggle roles on TV and in movies with a career in music that includes collaborations with her brother: former Twilight cast member Booboo Stewart.

Actually, Stewart has shared the screen with her older sibling in numerous projects, including 2013’s Hansel & Gretel: Warriors of Witchcraft, the 2017 horror flick American Satan, and The Never List from 2020, to name just a small few. You can see her on her own in movies like the fact-based thrillers The Haunting of Sharon Tate from 2019 and 2021’s Ted Bundy: American Boogeyman, as well as the 2022 horror film, Umma.

Issa Rae (Wanda)

Playing a writer who finds herself, literally, fading away slowly in her episode of Roar is Issa Rae - an actress and writer who, in reality, has only received more mainstream exposure following her Emmy-nominated breakthrough role on the HBO comedy she co-created with Larry Wilmore, Insecure. She actually has creative input in a lot of the things she stars in, such as A Black Lady Sketch Show and her back-to-back romances she also produced in 2020: the earnest The Photograph and the darkly funny Netflix exclusive The Lovebirds.

Rae also appeared in some notable music videos (Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” as a dancer and “Moonlight” by Jay-Z as Rachel in all-Black Friends remake) and appeared on two BoJack Horseman episodes as Dr. Indira. She was also in 2018’s The Hate U Give, the 2019 gender and age swapped reimagining of Big called Little, and was recently cast in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse - Part One as the voice of Jessica Drew (better known as Spider-Woman).

When is the last time that the cast of an anthology series had you this excited? Check out Roar and its brilliant leading ladies on Apple TV+, now streaming.

Insecure's AKA controversy has been the biggest situation to rock the HBO series in a while. Twitter users weren't exactly pleased when they watched Amanda Seales, as the bougie Tiffany DuBois, sport the AKA colors and letters. Many fans of the comedy (mostly Black Greeks) criticized not only the show but Seales and series co-creator Issa Rae as well. Black sororities and fraternities take their cultures seriously so, in some respects the reactions aren't too surprising. With things still somewhat bubbling, the Insecure star decided to address the issue head-on, after legal action was threatened.

The conflict initially seemed to stay on social media with Issa Rae and Community alum Yvette Nicole Brown chiming in on Amanda Seales’ behalf. But things took a turn, as AKA executive director Cynthia D. Howell claimed the organization was looking into the beloved HBO comedy's unauthorized use of the letters and colors. According to Black Enterprise, the group might be looking to sue the series and its premium cable home. After this latest development and internet uproar, Seales officially spoke out during her appearance on the Jemele Hill is Unbothered podcast. For the actress and comedian, she feels the controversy has more to do with her online persona than her character:

Just as she did in her initial response on Instagram, the star sought to differentiate herself from her character. As far as her internet persona goes, she has become a public figure that audiences either love or hate, there’s no gray area. But the Insecure situation seemed to conjure up personal memories for the multi-hyphenate. During the same interview, the actress further opened up about her prior experience with Black sororities and fraternities:

Based on her comments, it would seem Amanda Seales does indeed have respect for Black Greek life. With this, it would seem her stance on matter is quite clear. Still, it remains to be seen as to whether legal action will be taken. Hopefully, for the show and HBO's sake, there won't be any more major controversies as the acclaimed comedy inches toward its series finale. You can tune in on Sundays at 10 p.m. ET to watch the fifth and final season, and you can also stream the series on HBO Max.

Insecure is back for its fifth and final season, and the episodes have been stoking some spirited debates, as per usual. But one thing all fans have always looked forward to is learning which television shows the characters are obsessed with. This little tidbit is a fun series staple that keeps fans guessing ahead of each season. Usually, the obsession comes up around the first or second episode of a given season, but things are different this year. Now, a series producer revealed what happened to the fan-favorite running gag in the final season.

The HBO series' shows-within-a-show have become essential to its at this point. Fans have seen everything, from a 1990s sitcom reboot to a true-crime docuseries to a prison reality show. And usually, the audience can actually view the fictional series after each season concludes. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case for Season 5, according to showrunner Prentice Penny. While discussing the scrapped gag with TVLine, the TV veteran said:

It would seem that COVID-19 has caused yet another creative letdown, and it's especially bittersweet since it comes during Insecure’s final season. Still, the HBO comedy placed the safety and health of the cast and crew above a funny moment, so   it's hard to argue with the reasoning. And during the same interview, the producer let it slip that the creative team did indeed have an idea for a Season 5 show. He said:

Prentice Penny’s tease would make any Insecure fan want to know what Issa and Molly’s new TV obsession might be. There were some clues given within Episode 2 as the best friends watched a show. Issa Dee hinted they were watching the Jamie Foxx cult classic Any Given Sunday. But that might’ve been a ruse for their actual obsession. It's probably just wishful thinking but, hopefully, viewers will get some kind of clue that hints at the TV series in question.

The lack of a show-within-a-show was just the latest development for Season 5. The premiere episode was met with controversy from Black Greek sororities and fraternities after Amanda Seales’ Tiffany sported the AKA colors and insignia. The controversy was quite divisive amongst fans with Issa Rae defending the decision with her usual sarcasm. And given the HBO series is a lightning rod for debate, there’s bound to be more as the show reaches its conclusion.

Controversy and creative omissions aside, the leading lady, along with the rest of the cast and crew, were satisfied with how the fifth season turned out. And considering how unpredictable the show can be, it's sure to throw audiences some curveballs before it signs off. New episodes of Insecure premiere on Sundays at 10 p.m. on HBO, and you can also stream the show on HBO Max.

Insecure fans rejoiced when the beloved HBO series finally returned for its fifth and final season this past weekend. While many enjoyed the first episode, some found one character to be somewhat problematic during the premiere. Apparently, some fans with ties to Black Greek life weren’t amused by Tiffany Dubois, who is depicted as an Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority member (and sports the organizations colors in multiple scenes). Some viewers decided to seek out Tiffany herself Amanda Seales and co-creator Issa Rae to let their feelings be known, and the stars, along with Yvette Nicole Brown, have responded.

The social media backlash began after some members of the Divine Nine questioned if Amanda Seales was part of the Black Greek life. After multiple reached out to her online, Seales took her Instagram Stories to quell the rumors. According to People, the Insecure star responded by revealing she was “not a soror” but stated that her character was. She also reminded her followers that she “didn’t write the character.” This didn’t appear to sit well with some devoted fans, who decided to take the issue to Issa Rae. Upon hearing and seeing the AKA backlash, the entertainer didn't mince words, as she shared a sarcastic response on Twitter:

Following the sharp comeback on social media , an unexpected ally came to her, Amanda Seales and the HBO series’ defense. Community alum Yvette Nicole Brown took to Twitter to throw in her two cents about the backlash. (The actress wasn't a stranger to voicing her opinion.) Speaking as an AKA herself, Brown let it be known she wasn’t offended by the comedy’s portrayal of the historic sorority. Check out the star's blunt yet needed response to the backlash:

Yvette Nicole Brown definitely understands what it's like to be heavily linked to a role. As she mentioned, even though she's a bit removed from her role on NBC's Community, many still believe she's synonymous with the fictional character. So being an AKA herself, the veteran actress spoke from a place of authority and understanding here. Though it should be pointed out that every person has their own opinion and is entitled to their opinions on a certain situation.

Those who are familiar with Black Greek life likely know how precious those colors and letters are to the Divine Nine. The Greek organizations just don’t allow any and every one to wear them without being a part of an actual Black sorority or fraternity. There are certain rules and codes they abide by, and their depictions in film and TV over the years haven't always been the best. In this case, it would seem that Tiffany DuBois’ portrayal was more about the love and sisterhood of the historic sorority tends to value.

At this point, it's unclear how much the organization will factor into the rest of the season. Viewers can look forward to seeing how Insecure Season 5 plays out, as new episodes premiere every Sunday at 10 p.m. ET on HBO. And be sure to check out our fall 2021 TV schedule for more on the shows you can look forward to at the end of this year.

Insecure has had a strong run over the first four seasons on HBO, but fans will soon have to say goodbye to the series. Season 5 of the groundbreaking comedy series will be its last. With the upcoming fifth season being the show’s final outing, star and co-creator Issa Rae had to figure out how all the characters’ stories would wrap up. Did she want to leave it open-ended or put a firm stamp on the HBO series? Now, Rae has explained where the characters will be by the end of the comedy. 

Being the captain of the Insecure ship, the characters’ fates were left up to Issa Rae and the writers’ room, and there was some pressure to wrap up everyone’s storylines. But the multifaceted talent found tying up Issa Dee and the characters’ stories might not be necessary. The Insecure star revealed how executive producer Amy Aniobi relieved her anxiety over concluding the characters’ lives neatly, telling The New York Times:

Having spent so many years creating, developing, and writing these characters, Issa Rae decided to let the characters live beyond the page. While concluding each character’s story is the norm for most shows, Rae went against the grain. It does leave the series open for a return at some point, even if that isn't necessarily likely to happen. The Insecure creator’s co-star Jay Ellis couldn’t have agreed more with her decision. The Top Gun: Maverick star said about leaving the characters’ lives a bit unfinished: 

Given the messy and ordinary lives of Issa Dee and the gang, Jay Ellis hit the nail on the head. Each season has seen fans catch up months, if not years, after the last season’s events. So, having the characters continue after Season 5 isn’t unusual for the world of Insecure.

Leaving things open-ended could work for the HBO comedy in the future, even though a revival might not be possible for the foreseeable future given Issa Rae's busy schedule. As the creator and star, Rae should be able to leave her show the best way she sees fit. Hopefully, fans will understand Rae’s vision when Insecure premieres on Oct. 24 on HBO. 

Bravo's Vanderpump Rules has spanned nine seasons now, with a whole lot of drama playing out amongst the workers at Lisa Vanderpump’s hustling L.A. restaurant. The reality show was a natural successor of the Real Housewives, albeit with a younger, hipper spin. As it turns out, Vanderpump Rules' train of influence reached none other than producer and actress Issa Rae. The Insecure co-creator actually used it as an inspirational foundation on which to shape her own new reality show for HBO Max, Sweet Life: Los Angeles.

Following the runaway success of HBO's Insecure, along with her various film roles, Issa Rae was looking for a new project to pursue. She told EW that new project surprisingly originated in the form of a “Black Melrose” pitch that ultimately transformed into Sweet Life: Los Angeles, which is currently streaming on HBO Max. Rae shared that marathoning Vanderpump Rules’ first season on a plane ride helped shape the ethos of Sweet Life, saying:

Sweet Life: Los Angeles certainly shares a lot of similarities with Vanderpump Rules: namely L.A. dreamers and a dash of complex interpersonal relationships, sans Lisa Vanderpump's restaurant. But it sets itself apart by being one of the few and far between all-Black TV casts, in the reality TV genre or otherwise. As seen in the show's August 19 premiere episode on HBO Max, executive producer Issa Rae wrangled together seven South L.A 20-somethings to share their friend group’s successes – or, at least, their journeys in the general direction of success. It features aspiring designers and producers, some “trap yoga,” a beat up Honda Civic, and the ol’ reliable relationship entanglements that are part and parcel with these kinds of shows. (And young people.)

But Vanderpump Rules wasn't the only show to influence Sweet Life: Los Angeles. Executive producer Issa Rae said her initial plan was:

Talk about a tall order – but she managed it by supposedly “finding real people with real ambitions.” She reflected that she was “very skeptical and careful” at the onset because she didn't want the HBO Max series to feature the “stereotypical archetype of L.A.” (Which one could argue is exactly what happened in Vanderpump Rules.) She said,

Talk about a tall order – but she managed it by, in her words, “finding real people with real ambitions.” She reflected that she was quite careful about everything at the onset because she didn't want the HBO Max series to play into the stereotypes about L.A. that everyone already feeds into. (Which one could argue is exactly what happened in Vanderpump Rules.) She also said:

HBO Max’s rollout of Sweet Life: Los Angeles has been rather quiet, but the critical reaction to it is decidedly not. The Ringer named it one of the best reality shows out right now. Likewise, Vice proclaimed that Issa Rae’s new reality show, along with Teyana Taylor and Iman’s We Got Love, represent a “new era of Black reality TV." So whether or not you care about Vanderpump Rules, there's still reasons to tune in. It seems where Issa Rae promises, she delivers, so watch your crown, Lisa Vanderpump…

Sweet Life: Los Angeles is streaming now on HBO Max, with new episodes debuting Wednesdays throughout the 2021 Fall TV season.

Spider-Man: No Way Home isn’t the only upcoming Spider-Man movie that’s delving into the multiverse. Over in the animated realm, we’ll be reuniting next year with Shameik Moore’s Miles Morales in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2, and naturally we can expect him to meet more Spider-heroes during his second cinematic adventure. Word’s come in that Jessica Drew, a.k.a. Spider-Woman, will be one of those heroes, and she’ll be voiced by Insecure actress Issa Rae.

This Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2 casting hails from THR, making Issa Rae the first new actor to board the superhero sequel. In addition to Shameik Moore returning, Hailee Steinfeld is also on deck to reprise Gwen Stacy, a.k.a. Spider-Gwen, the Spider-Woman of her Earth. It’s unclear if Rae’s Jessica Drew will hail from Miles’ Earth or a different universe.

After attracting attention with her web series Awkward Black Girl, Issa Rae became well known for starring in HBO’s Insecure, which she created with Larry Wilmore. Insecure Season 4 aired last year and will conclude at a yet-to-be-announced date with Season 5. Rae’s other notable credits include The Hate U Give, The Photograph, The Lovebirds, Bojack Horseman, executive producing A Black Lady Sketch Show and hosting an episode of Saturday Night Live in 2020.

Jessica Drew made her Marvel Comics debut in 1977’s Marvel Spotlight #32, 15 years after Peter Parker, a.k.a. Spider-Man, first popped up in Amazing Fantasy #15. Although Jessica and Peter both take their superhero monikers from the same order of arachnids, they actually aren’t as closely tied together as you might think. For one thing, instead of being bitten by a radioactive spider, Jessica (in her original origin story) gained her powers when her father injected her with a serum based on irradiated spider blood to cure her of uranium poisoning. Like Peter, Jessica has super strength and can crawl on walls, but her other abilities include manipulating pheromones and projecting bio-electric energy. Also, before becoming a superhero, Jessica Drew was brainwashed into being a HYDRA agent.

All this being said, Jessica and Peter have teamed up on a number of occasions, including in the Spider-Verse crossover, and Jessica has been affiliated with teams/organizations like S.H.I.E.L.D., the Avengers, S.W.O.R.D. and the Web-Warriors. Outside of the comics, Jessica starred in a short-lived animated series centered on her that aired from 1979 to 1980, as well as appeared in video games like Marvel: Ultimate Alliance and Lego Marvel Super Heroes. Needless to say that Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2 will introduce her to a lot of people.

While Jessica Drew may be the first new character to be cast in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2, she’s not the first new character to be revealed for the sequel. Back in late 2019, producer and co-writer Phil Lord revealed that Takuya Yamashiro, the lead of the 1970s Japanese live-action Spider-Man TV series, would appear, though there’s been no word on who will voice him. It’s also a good bet we’ll see more of Oscar Isaac’s Miguel O’Hara, a.k.a. Spider-Man 2099, who cameoed at the end of the first Spider-Verse movie.

Directed by Joaquin Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson, with them working off a script penned by David Callaham, Phil Lord and Chris Miller, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2 will spin its web in theaters on October 7, 2022. If you’re curious about what’s coming out later this year, head to our upcoming 2021 movies guide.

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With the hit HBO comedy series Insecure coming to an end after five seasons, you would think the show’s star and co-creator, Issa Rae, would stop and relax for a bit before starting something new. Well, that’s not going to be happening anytime soon, with a slew of movies and TV shows starting to stack up on the plate of the internet-sensation-turned-established-star, especially with that massive deal she inked with HBO. The truth is, this is just the beginning for the Lovebirds star, as she will spend the better part of 2021 and beyond on the silver screen, our TV screens, and with the way today’s media climate looks, on our phone screens.

Below, we will break down each and every one of the upcoming Issa Rae movies and TV shows we can expect to see from the talented writer/actor/producer who has etched out quite a career for herself, and become one of the leading voices in Hollywood these past few years. There’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started…

Vengeance (Actor) - TBD (Filming)

Issa Rae is mostly known for her comedic and dramatic work in everything from Insecure to The Hate U Give, but the New York Times best-seller will soon take a spin at the horror genre in the upcoming Vengeance, a thriller written and directed by B.J. Novak that is being produced by Jason Blum and his Blumhouse Productions. Per Collider, the horror flick will center on a New York City radio host (played by Novak) who travels to the American South to investigate his girlfriend’s murder. Not much else has been revealed about Vengeance’s plot at this point, but the film’s cast is shaping up nicely. With everyone from Issa Rae to Ashton Kutcher, and Boyd Holbrook to J. Smith-Cameron appearing in undisclosed roles, the cast is talented to say the least.

It is hard to say exactly when (or how) Vengeance will be released, considering it was still in production in spring 2021 after taking nearly a one-year break after the pandemic forced Blumhouse to press pause not long after cameras started rolling in early 2020, per The Hollywood Reporter. Production finally resumed in January 2021 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, per Deadline, but it remains to be revealed when things will wrap up.

Sinkhole (Actor, Producer) - TBD (Pre-Production)

Since July 2020, Issa Rae and Get Out director Jordan Peele have been working on a thought-provoking genre film called Sinkhole, which follows a young family who move into their dream home despite a massive and magical hole in the middle of the backyard. Per Deadline, Rae, who is set to star, and Peele were part of Universal Pictures’ winning bid to adapt Lenya Krow’s short story, which tackles female perfection and identity by asking if the sinkhole could fix a broken person.

There isn’t much to go on, as no writers or directors have been named at this point, but considering Sinkhole will fall under Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility for the Academy Award winner to helm the project himself. Expect to hear more on the highly anticipated movie in the coming months.

American Princess (Actor) - TBD (Pre-Production)

Issa Rae is slated to lead the Paul Feig-produced Fox romantic comedy American Princess. First announced in October 2018, the comedy, which is to be directed by Stella Meghie, will follow Rae’s character as she moves from the United States to London, where she finds herself drawn into the wealth and high society of the bustling metropolis before falling in love in an unexpected way, per Variety. Rae’s Insecure co-writer Amy Aniobi was said to be working on a rewrite of the script originally put together by Brendan O’Brien, who is also set to produce.

There has been no word on when the rest of the cast will be fleshed out or even when American Princess is set to enter production at this time, but be on the lookout for more in the future.

Empress Of Serenity (Actor) - TBD (Pre-Production)

In March 2017, it was announced that Issa Rae and Bill Hader would be co-starring in drama-comedy directed by Jesse Andrews, who wrote Me and Earl and the Dying Girl, the 2015 film based on his debut novel. According to an initial report from Variety when the movie was announced, Empress of Serenity will follow a lawyer (Hader) who is guilted into a month-long ocean cruise by his estranged father. Rae will play a reclusive passenger in the next cabin who helps Hader’s character while also getting in his way at the same time.

Production was initially supposed to get underway in August 2017, but there have not been any updates on Empress of Serenity in well over four years. This one might be dead in the water.

Insecure Season 5 (Actor/Executive Producer) - TBD (Filming)

Since its debut in 2016, the HBO comedy Insecure has turned its creator and star Issa Rae into one of the most sought-after names in Hollywood. Just as the actor/writer/producer’s career is preparing to reach new heights, the bridge that brought her to stardom will be closing down following its fifth and final season. Announced back in May 2020, just as Insecure Season 4 was in full-swing, HBO announced Rae’s popular show would be returning for a fifth season before announcing, in January 2021, that this would be the end of the road for the fictional version of the multi-talented star, according to Deadline.

Production began on Insecure Season 5 in January 2021, as Issa Rae revealed in an Instagram video of herself waving in front of a trailer with a caption reading “First Day of Season Bye-ve.” An exact release date has yet to be announced for the HBO comedy’s swan song, but it was included in the HBO Max hype video released in December 2020 which showed off everything coming to the streaming service through 2022. Be on the lookout for announcements about the cast, plot, and release date as 2021 chugs along.

Sweet Life: Los Angeles (Executive Producer) (TV Series) - Summer 2021 (Filming)

In March 2021, Issa Rae signed a $40 million deal with Warner Media which will see the Insecure creator and her Hoorae media label work with the giant on a number of series and other projects over the course of five years, according to Variety. One of the first shows to come from that new deal is the unscripted TV series Sweet Life: Los Angeles, which will debut on HBO Max at some point in summer 2021, per the streaming platform.

When announcing Sweet Life: Los Angeles in May 2021, HBO Max said the show will give audiences an honest and unique look into what it means to be young, Black, and in constant pursuit of one’s dreams in the heart of South Los Angeles. The unscripted series will follow a group of ambitious 20-somethings as they build up their respective careers as well as work on their friendship and familial bonds.

It has yet to be revealed exactly when in summer 2021 Sweet Life: Los Angeles will debut on HBO Max, how many episodes will be included, or if Issa Rae will appear at all.

Project Greenlight (Executive Producer) (TV Docuseries) - TBD (Pre-Production)

The HBO docuseries Project Greenlight, which debuted on the premium cable network in December 2001 as a way to give young and talented first-time filmmakers a shot at making a feature-length film with guidance from Academy Award winners Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, will soon make its return, but with some slight changes. Instead of Damon and Affleck serving as hosts, mentors, and producers, the fifth season of Project Greenlight (which last aired in late 2015, igniting all sorts of controversy in the process), will be led by Issa Rae, who will be working with a group of unknown female filmmakers who are all working towards making their directorial debut and winning the show's top prize.

Announced in May 2021, Project Greenlight will debut on HBO Max at some point in the near future and will consist of eight episodes featuring the group attempting to get their respective projects off the ground. The winner of the competition will have their film appear on HBO Max at some point after the show's finale. Just like Matt Damon and Ben Affleck before her, Issa Rae will appear in all eight episodes, and serve as a mentor to the filmmakers throughout.

Expect to hear more about Project Greenlight’s return and the various female filmmakers who will spend eight episodes competing for the top prize and a well-earned HBO Max debut in the coming months.

As you can see, even with Insecure coming to an end, Issa Rae is going to be quite busy throughout 2021, 2022, and beyond. To prevent missing any of the multitalented star’s upcoming movies and TV shows, make sure to keep an eye on CinemaBlend’s updated list of 2021 movie premiere dates and the summer 2021 TV schedule for all the latest on the big and small screen.

Over the course of the past five years, Issa Rae has gone from internet sensation to a rising A-list star, both in film and television. This transition didn't happen overnight. The actress-writer-producer has proven her talents in a number of projects, including The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl and HBO's Insecure, and we should expect a lot of great things to come in the near future. Signing a $40 million contract with HBO, which will result in her latest TV project, Rap Shit, the influential multi-hyphenate is (very) quickly making a name for herself. If you're a fan of the burgeoning superstar, particularly with Insecure Season 5 (the final season of the acclaimed HBO dramedy) set to premiere later this year, here are some inspirational facts that you should know.

Issa Rae Credits A Moesha Script She Won As Her Ticket Into The Industry

Every celebrity has their own ticket into Hollywood. Whether it's talent or connections, everyone gets their start somewhere. When it comes to Issa Rae, her writing career began in earnest when she visited the set of UPN's Moesha in 1996. During this set visit, where she was part of the live studio audience, Rae won one of the show's scripts. That script became fortuitous and deeply beneficial. It became the writer's "blueprint," as she noted in an interview. Through this "template," Rae followed the structure and style of this sitcom teleplay and used it to write her own material in the years to follow.

This isn't the first time that Issa Rae has credited Moesha for being a foundational building block of her writing career; the actress-writer said it was the show that influenced her the most. She even recently paid homage to the popular '90s sitcom.

She Started Writing And Directing Plays During Her Freshman Year At Stanford

From an early age, Issa Rae was interested in developing her own projects — even (or especially) when opportunities weren't afforded to her. During her freshman year at Stanford University, the playwright discovered that a number of projects around the school weren't developed with Black artists in mind. Therefore, Rae started writing and directing her own plays, making sure that her distinct voice was heard on campus. The confidence that the writer gained in the process allowed her to create more projects.

Before Awkward Black Girl, Issa Rae Made Another Web Series, Dorm Diaries

During her senior year of college, Issa Rae created her first series. More specifically, the creator launched the first episode of Dorm Diaries, a micro-budget, soap opera-esque mockumentary series about life for Black students on Stanford's campus, as The New York Times reports. Much like The Real World, the college-based web show would alternate between sit-down confessionals and slice-of-life documentary-like footage.

Posted on Facebook, Dorm Diaries didn't attract the same audience as Issa Rae's later shows, but the web series became enough of a hit for the actress-writer to feel inspired. She considers this show to be her "epiphany moment," the point in her life where the lightbulb went off and she realized what she wanted to do with her career. Rae was planning to pitch the web program as a series for MTV or BET, but thieves broke into her house in Washington Heights one night and stole thousands of dollars of equipment, including her laptop. The incident left her depressed and in debt, but not discouraged.

Produced by Pharrell Williams, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl Propelled Issa Rae’s Career

While Insecure is the HBO show that would turn Issa Rae into a household name, the actress-writer found her first brushes with fame thanks to the short-lived web series, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl, a short-form comedy show that premiered on YouTube in 2011 and concluded in 2013, a few years before Insecure's premiere.

Praised for its sharp, personal, and pointed commentary from its lead character, the web series became an early hit, and it gained a greater following when producer Pharrell Williams premiered the second season on his YouTube channel. From this original series, it's easy to see Issa Rae's clever wit on display, and the actress-writer would only continue to fine-tune her voice through her work on the current HBO favorite.

The Actress-Writer Briefly Considered Business School And Law School Before Awkward Black Girl Took Off

There's a world in which Issa Rae isn't the rising star she is today. During her mid-20s, before she started work on The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl, the actress was struggling to make ends meet and facing a low point in her life. She was wondering if her creative ambitions should be pursued. At that point, under her father's guidance, she considered business school and law school. Rae even took the GMAT and the LSATs, as she told The Huffington Post. But, this detour was short-lived, as Awkward Black Girl would exceed Rae's expectations and quickly propel her filmmaking career.

Before Insecure, Issa Rae Wrote A Best-Selling Book, Also Titled The Misadventures Of Awkward Black Girl

Following The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl but prior to HBO's Insecure, Issa Rae added another credit to her resume: best-selling author. In 2015, the show creator published a collection of self-effacing personal essays and musings, which was also titled The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl. The book became yet another success for the developing star and it was another way for Rae to express herself as an artist. Considering how busy she is nowadays, it's hard to know if Rae will have time to author another book in the near future, but her talents extend to the page as well as the screen.

Issa Rae Owns Her Own Coffee Shop And Record Label

In addition to wearing multiple hats as an actress, author, and producer, Issa Rae is a business owner. Specifically, Rae is behind Hilltop Coffee and Kitchen, an Inglewood-based coffee shop and eatery that she co-owns with Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan. With this shop, as New One reports, the prolific writer wants to create both jobs and "a safe space for the community that cultivates innovation, creativity, and collaboration."

It should be noted that Hilltop Coffee and Kitchen is only the latest way that Issa Rae provides a thriving work environment for marginalized communities. Additionally, the actress is the owner of her own record label, Raedio, which is an imprint of Atlantic Records, as Vogue reported. It's a testament to Rae's ever-busy work ethic that she continues to find new, inventive ways to expand herself as an artist and entrepreneur.

She Is A Voice Option On Google Assistant

If you love Issa Rae's voice, you can get even more of it — thanks to Google Assistant. As Google announced via Instagram, the actress-writer lent her soothing voice to their catalog of audio options, which users can access simply by saying "Hey Google, talk like Issa." It's that easy! Let Rae assist you in all your various day-to-day adventures.

In 2014, Issa Rae Co-Founded ColorCreative, An Organization For Underrepresented TV And Film Writers

Issa Rae is an artist who wants to give back. Throughout her developing and always expanding career, the actress-writer-producer has paved her own way and made room for Black artists to shine, making sure that she provides opportunities for herself and other Black artists to thrive — especially when positions aren't often readily given to Black men and women. That desire to promote Black artists was seen in her work with ColorCreative, an organization co-founded in 2014 to highlight underrepresented film and TV writers in the industry. This is only one of several ways that Rae has used her celebrity, power, and creative influence to help Black artists in Hollywood and abroad.

You can stream Insecure on HBO Max here.

From her YouTube series Awkward Black Girl to Lovebirds, which was one of Netflix's top films, Issa Rae’s career has been on fire with no signs of stopping. But Rae wasn’t always everyone’s favorite multihyphenated creator. The writer-actress-producer wrote screenplays throughout her childhood and adolescence. Since then, Rae has grown into one of Hollywood’s top go-getters. Recently, the creator recalled a time she sent a profanity-filled pilot to ABC.

In recent years, Issa Rae hit her stride starring, creating and highlighting content depicting Black culture for wider audiences. But her love for creating came after watching director Gina Prince-Blythewood’s directorial debut Love and Basketball. Apparently, that inspiration led to her profanity-laced script. Rae told Rolling Stone:

Given Issa Rae’s inexperience as a writer at the time, it was obvious why ABC turned down her spec script. Getting a profanity-laced script from a high schooler would’ve shocked any major network. She even spoke on sending scripts to CBS and NBC as well. At least, Rae was able to turn those early rejections into teachable moments.

Issa Rae also revealed a full-circle moment that happened over a decade later. The writer-actress eventually made her way to ABC through a development deal with fellow multihyphenate Shonda Rhimes. But the pilot Rae created for the network didn’t work out. She admitted to pushing her voice and stories to the side to fit ABC’s standards and rules. That deal was a wonderful opportunity but ultimately wasn’t a fit for her or the network.

Issa Rae didn’t have to worry about conforming or standards in her next venture. Her HBO deal allowed her to have all the profanity and awkwardness she wanted as seen by her hit series Insecure’s success. HBO gave Rae the freedom she needed to create one of television’s best comedies. That freedom led to the acclaimed series reaching its fifth and final season. But Insecure's end doesn’t mean the end of Rae’s career as she has multiple television and film projects in the work for Warner Bros.

As evident by Issa Rae’s current success, her skills as a writer have grown over time. That’s why Rae is one of my favorite Hollywood creatives. She isn’t afraid to take embarrassing moments and turn them into teachable ones. While it’s sad to see Insecure end, Rae seems ready to move on with the next chapter of her career with her multiple ventures. At this moment, the creator has done something many in Hollywood aspire to do – take control of her career without any shame.

In a year all but written off as a loss by Hollywood, Zendaya sure is pulling out all the stops. The child singer/dancer/actress is no more, and now Zendaya is a full force to be reckoned with. Having recently won an Emmy for best actress, making her the youngest woman in history to receive the award, Zendaya takes time to give thanks to those who have inspired her in her career: Issa Rae among other leading Black actresses and filmmakers.

During an interview she did for her cover issue of Essence, Zendaya gives credits to female Black TV and film professionals who have paved the way for her and others like her. After all, she's got a variety of producing credits coming. In her own words:

Zendaya’s “one at a time” comment is in reference to the lack of Black folks represented in Hollywood. This isn’t the first we have heard of this trend; another notable instance possibly being Dave Chappelle, the king of controversy, telling the story of how he was once rejected by HBO because they already had a Black comedian.

Although we are seeing more and more representation in Hollywood and more diversity in breakout actors, there is a long way to go. Like her inspirations Issa Rae and Lena Waithe, Zendaya herself is a champion for change in Hollywood. With her part as MJ in Marvel’s new Spiderman series, she has taken upon herself a historically white role and with her blunt sense of humor made it one that is not only entirely relatable, but incredibly likable.

Zendaya not only recognizes her position as a young champion to Black youth, but she embraces the social responsibility, saying that there may be more work to be done and she is here for it. As she went on to explain in the same interview,

With an already impressive resume that dates back to when the actress was just 14 years old, Zendaya has continue to progress and transform her career. With the previously mentioned role as MJ in Spiderman and her part in The OA, the actress distanced herself from her child star image. Now, with her Emmy winning performance in HBO’s Euphoria and her portrayal as Chani in the upcoming remake of the iconic Dune, She is pulling away from a strictly teen image into more serious, mature roles.

It’s clear that Zendaya, unlike a lot of Disney child stars, is here to stay. Not only that, but she is here for change. Zendaya has emerged in a promising time in Hollywood - the road being paved as she steps, leaving room for her to lay a few bricks of her own. And we'll just have to wait and see the projects she produces and stars in moving forward.

You can stay up to date on all of Zendaya’s projects on Cinemablend, of which there are sure to be many.

One of scripted television's longest-running institutions, Saturday Night Live, is headed back into production and returning to the studio after its unexpected time airing with pre-taped skits from cast members' homes at the end of last season. While fans certainly admired the desire of the cast and crew to keep the good ship SNL afloat as much as possible under some trying circumstances, you can bet that viewers will be looking to see the legendary skitcom return to something much more like normal in Season 46. With new announcements on who will be hosting and performing as musical guests, it looks like all of our dreams will be coming true.

Every year brings an assorted number of wonders for those who love SNL. We tune in each week for the promise of laughs, fun surprises, wild satire, the occasional shocking (or shockingly funny) screw up and to see what kind of silliness the guest hosts (and possibly musical guests) will be roped into while trying to deliver the funniest possible show. This season will see Kenan Thompson head into his eighteenth season on the live show, further cementing his place as the longest-running cast member for SNL ever, but this promises to be a banner year for the series in other ways, as well.

This is, after all, an election year, and those behind Saturday Night Live are nothing if not truly gifted when it comes to both lampooning politicians and also casting said political figures for the show. We already know that (after sounding like he was totally done with putting in the effort) Alec Baldwin will return yet again to step into the presidential shoes of Donald Trump, a role that won him an Emmy in 2017, with former cast member Maya Rudolph reprising her Emmy-winning part as Kamala Harris.

Word also came down recently that they'll be joined by Jim Carrey, who will take over the part of Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden from another former cast member, Jason Sudeikis. Who knows, with the way these special guest appearances are going, we might be treated to Brad Pitt's Dr. Anthony Fauci again. By the way, Pitt's performance also got an Emmy nod this year, so if we see a lot more special guests coming in to play real life people, I wouldn't be surprised.

Meanwhile, we do have our first announcement of who will host and act as musical guest on the Season 46 premiere of SNL, and you really can't be mad at who was chosen. So, let's get to the list of who will be handling hosting and musical duties this year! Be sure to bookmark this list, because it'll be updated when new info becomes available!

May 22 - Anya Taylor-Joy With Musical Guest Lil Nas X

Saturday Night Live will wrap Season 46 with another pair of newbies hitting the 30 Rock stage. The Queen's Gambit star and recent Golden Globe winner Anya Taylor-Joy will host, while rapper Lil Nas X will perform.

Past Episodes

October 3 - Chris Rock With Musical Guest Megan Thee Stallion

Hot! Hot! Hot! Chris Rock, of course, is another former cast member, having hit the SNL stage weekly from 1990 to 1993. The actor / comedian / talk show host has been back to lead the festivities at his old stomping grounds twice before, and is funny to his bones, so you know he'll bring his best on opening night. Rapper Megan Thee Stallion is coming off of several hits, including this summer's naughty scorcher "WAP," with Cardi B, and this will be her first time on SNL.

October 10 - Bill Burr With Musical Guest Jack White

Comedian and actor Bill Burr will make his SNL debut on October 10. The Monday Morning Podcast host was most recently seen in The King of Staten Island with Pete Davidson, and The Mandalorian, and his animated family sitcom, F is for Family, will be back for a fifth and final season on Netflix. After a bit of a shakeup, Jack White will step in to act as musical guest on the episode, marking his fourth time rocking the halls of 30 Rock.

October 17 - Issa Rae With Musical Guest Justin Bieber

The star, executive producer, and creator of the HBO hit comedy Insecure, Issa Rae, will mark her SNL hosting debut on October 17. Joining Rae on the show will be Justin Bieber, who will appear as musical guest for the fourth time.

October 24 - Adele With Musical Guest H.E.R.

Music superstar Adele makes her hosting debut on Saturday Night Live with the October 24, episode, after previously acting as musical guest way back in October 2008, and again in November 2015. Ten-time Grammy Award nominee H.E.R. (who won two of the awards in 2019) will make her debut as musical guest on the same night.

October 31 - John Mulaney With Musical Guest The Strokes

Comedian and former SNL writer John Mulaney will hit the stage to host for the fourth time on October 31. Rockers The Strokes will also perform for the fourth time.

November 7 - Dave Chappelle With Musical Guest Foo Fighters

Dave Chappelle returns for his second hosting gig, having previously hit the stage right after the 2016 presidential election. The Foo Fighters will perform as musical guests, for what will be the band's eighth time appearing.

November 14 through 28 - No New SNL Episodes

December 5 - Jason Bateman With Musical Guest Morgan Wallen

Ozark and The Outsider star Jason Bateman will return to host when the show comes back from a three-week break on December 5. This will be Bateman's second time in the job; he last hosted in February 2005. Country music star Morgan Wallen is scheduled as musical guest, after being booted off of the second episode this season when producers found out he hadn't been following their new production guidelines.

December 12 - Timothée Chalamet With Musical Guest Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band

Dune's Timothée Chalamet is coming to host SNL for his first time on December 12, while Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be along for their third performance.

December 19 - Kristen Wiig With Musical Guest Dua Lipa

Former cast member Kristen Wiig returns for her fourth hosting gig on December 19, with her starring role as Cheetah in Wonder Woman 1984 heading to HBO Max (and theaters) on Christmas Day. Meanwhile, pop superstar Dua Lipa will hit SNL for the second time.

January 30 - John Krasinski With Musical Guest Machine Gun Kelly

Everyone's favorite prankster from The Office (and star of Jack Ryan and A Quiet Place), John Krasinski, will host when the series returns for the first episode of the new year. Singer/rapper/actor Machine Gun Kelly will appear as musical guest for the first time.

February 6 - Dan Levy With Musical Guest Phoebe Bridgers

Schitt's Creek co-creator/actor Dan Levy will host SNL for the first time on February 6. Rock/indie folk singer Phoebe Bridgers appears as musical guest.

February 13 - Regina King With Musical Guest Nathaniel Rateliff

Oscar, Golden Globe, and four-time Emmy Award winner Regina King will step on the 30 Rock stage for the first time on February 13. Folk and R&B artist Nathaniel Rateliff will perform.

February 20 - Regé-Jean Page With Musical Guest Bad Bunny

Breakout Bridgerton star Regé-Jean Page hosts SNL for the first time, and will appear alongside musical guest, rapper, Bad Bunny.

February 27 - Nick Jonas With Musical Guest Nick Jonas

That's right, the actor/singer, known for films like Jumanji: The Next Level and Midway, hosts the last episode of February, and will also appear as musical guest.

March 27 - Maya Rudolph With Musical Guest Jack Harlow

Former SNL cast member Maya Rudolph returns to her old stomping grounds to host for the second time on March 27. Rapper Jack Harlow will hit the stage as musical guest.

April 3 - Daniel Kaluuya With Musical Guest St. Vincent

Two-time Oscar nominee (most recently for Judas and the Black Messiah) Daniel Kaluuya will host SNL for the first time on April 3. Rock/pop performer St. Vincent will act as musical guest.

April 10 - Carey Mulligan With Musical Guest Kid Cudi

Another two-time Oscar nominee (this time for Promising Young Woman), Carey Mulligan, will also step up to host for the first time in April. Rapper Kid Cudi will appear as musical guest.

May 8 - Elon Musk With Musical Guest Miley Cyrus

Tesla CEO Elon Musk will make his debut as SNL guest host for the first episode of May, as the series begins to wind down Season 46. Musk proved to be a rather controversial choice, so we'll see how his inaugural hosting gig goes. He'll be joined by musical guest Miley Cyrus, who's making her fifth appearance as either musical guest or host.

May 15 - Keegan-Michael Key With Musical Guest Olivia Rodrigo

Emmy winner and all around funny guy Keegan-Michael Key will mark his first time hosting SNL on May 15. Meanwhile, another newcomer, singer/actress Olivia Rodrigo will act as musical guest for the first time.

Again, be sure to bookmark this list so you can stay up to date on all of SNL's latest hosts and musical guests in Season 46!

Jordan Peele, who was once primarily known for his hilarious comedy sketch show Key and Peele, has turned a bit of a corner in his career by directing genre horror films Get Out and Us, and hosting the CBS TV show The Twilight Zone. Now, he’s leaning even further into more genre movies by teaming up with Issa Rae on a new movie. And it sounds wild.

According to EW, Jordan Peele and Issa Rae will produce a movie based on a short story by Leyna Krow. It’s uncertain if Issa Rae will star but, at the very least, she’ll be producing under her company banner Issa Rae Productions. Jordan Peele, for his part, will also produce under Monkeypaw Productions. There’s no word if he’ll be stepping into the director’s chair or not.

Leyna Krow’s short story Sinkhole was the subject of a bidding war between several studios, with Universal Pictures and Monkeypaw Productions winning in the end. Sinkhole is about a family reluctant to purchase a home because it has a sinkhole in the backyard, but go through with it anyway because of the price. They discover that anything broken they throw into the sinkhole comes back perfect. So, what happens if a person falls in?

Securing the rights to Sinkhole is more big news for Issa Rae, whose Insecure just received 11 Emmy nominations, including one for Issa Rae herself with Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. On top of all that, her Netflix comedy The Lovebirds released earlier this year and was warmly received by critics.

Jordan Peele has been equally as busy with a slew of projects, many focusing on horror and science fiction. He has teamed up with J.J. Abrams to produce the HBO series Lovecraft Country. Based on the novel of the same name, Lovecraft Country is about Atticus Freeman, his friend Letitia, and Atticus’ uncle in search of Atticus’s dad in the 1950’s Jim Crow South, and they find more than they bargained for.

Jordan Peele also has lent a hand producing the remake of the horror classic Candyman. Since Candyman also seems like a solid project for the director, many wondered why he wouldn’t direct that film as well. He responded that he was busy tackling Us at the time, but also didn’t feel too fit for it anyway, afraid the old stories would get in the way of an original vision.

But after reading Sinkhole's story synopsis, I hope Jordan Peele will take this project on as a director; it sounds like a concept right up his alley. After seeing his directorial prowess with Get Out and Us, Jordan Peele could likely do wonders with a story like this. Stay tuned for more movies news at Cinema Blend.

Steadily, Issa Rae is becoming a Hollywood go-to actress for unique and quirky romantic movies. Rae has shown her versatility, vulnerability, sexiness, and relatability in various film and TV projects, so it’s no wonder that her star is even more on the rise. 2020 has been a great year for Issa Rae projects. She has appeared in two highly anticipated romantic movies of 2020, the most popular one being The Lovebirds. She stars opposite Kumail Nanjiani in this recently Netflix-acquired flick. The Lovebirds is a movie about a couple on the brink of breaking up, but they are forced to stay together and work together to solve a murder mystery.

The Lovebirds is a highly enjoyable comedy that is sure to make you question whether you and your significant other could really win The Amazing Race. It showcases both Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae’s ability to keep viewers engaged, laughing, and rooting for them. For some, The Lovebirds is their first time being introduced to the actress, but Rae has been creating, producing, and starring in TV shows and movies for nearly 10 years.

If you need a crash course on some of her best work, here are a few projects to check out.

Insecure

Insecure is the hit HBO series starring Issa Rae and Yvonne Orji. It was co-created by Rae and Larry Wilmore. The series follows Issa Dee (Issa Rae) and her friends as they try to figure out the next chapters in their lives. Each season deals with a major element of self-discovery, from the end of a relationship to the beginning of one, to new jobs to losing jobs, to babies, marriages, starting a business, and so much more.

Insecure creates complex characters who rarely have it together. It’s about their journeys and all the ways they get it wrong-and then sometimes figure it out and get it right. The series is a hilarious look at issues faced not only by modern black women and men, but universal issues that everyone faces on the path to growing up.

The Misadventures Of Awkward Black Girl

This web-series follows J (Issa Rae), an awkward 20-something black girl who tries to navigate the awkwardness of everyday situations, like mean co-workers, new relationships, and friendships. The series started in 2011, and had two seasons. Most of the episodes are under five minutes long. The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl is what initially got people to take notice of Issa Rae’s comedic style and fresh voice. The series clearly helped influence some elements that she uses in Insecure.

Misadventures is good to watch as an evolutionary study. You see how The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl has matured and evolved into Insecure. Also on its own the web-series is a quick watch that’s very funny, a different take on the image Hollywood presents of the black girl, and it has a ton of distinct and hilarious characters.

Little

Issa Rae co-stars with Regina Hall and Marsai Martin in Little, a story about a woman who reverts back to her childhood self after being cursed for being mean to a little girl. It’s Big and 13 Going on 30 in reverse. Rae plays April, Jordan (Regina Hall)’s assistant who ends up having to watch 13-year old Jordan (Marsai Martin).

This is an entertaining film that let’s each of the leads shine. Along with the main plot, it’s a story about April trying to be taken more seriously and have more responsibilities at work. Little has hilarious moments with each of the leads, making it a good watch if you want some lighthearted comedy.

The Hate U Give

The Hate U Give is a drama based on the best selling book of the same name. It follows teen Starr (Amanda Stenberg) as she witnesses the murder of her unarmed black male friend, Khalil (Algee Smith). Khalil is murdered by a police officer, and the incident sparks unrest for Starr and her community.

Issa Rae plays April, a civil rights lawyer who encourages Starr to speak up about Khalil’s death, and the police’s involvement in it. The film takes a hard look at the injustices faced by black people, especially when it comes to police brutality. Rae’s part is small, but vital as she’s one of the people that helps inspire Starr to stand up for her rights and not let the police officer get away with Khalil’s murder.

Hair Love

Hair Love is the Academy Award winning best animated short about a father trying to figure out how to do his young daughter’s hair. Rae narrates the short as the mother. Spoilers coming ahead.

The mother character is first only seen through a video watched by the daughter and father. By the end of the short, it’s revealed that she is in the hospital and has lost all her hair due to some type of illness. The father and daughter show her that she’s still beautiful and a queen even without hair. Hair Love makes you feel so many emotions in a short span of time, such as sadness, joy, inspiration, and triumph.

The Photograph

The Photograph is a romantic drama that follows two love stories, one set in the past and another in the present. The present one follows Mae (Issa Rae) and reporter Michael (Lakeith Stanfield). They meet because Michael is writing a story about a man who used to know her mother. The past love story follows Mae’s mother, Christina (Chante Adams) and Isaac (Y'lan Noel).

The Photograph is about Mae learning Christina and Issac's love story, and using them as an example so that she won’t repeat their mistakes with Michael. The film focuses more on the characters than plot, and Rae does a great job of projecting Mae’s uncertainty about leaping fully into this new relationship.

BoJack Horseman

Issa Rae lends her voice to two episodes of BoJack Horseman Season 5. She plays Dr. Indira, Diane (Alison Brie)’s therapist. The first episode that she appears in is “The Dog Days Are Over,” which is only a brief appearance. In the episode, Dr. Indira not-so-subtly name drops some of her famous clients. She then has a larger role in “NT. SUB.” She has dinner with her wife, Mary-Beth (Wanda Sykes), and she shares an encounter that she had with Bojack Horseman (Will Arnett) and Diane.

The episode revolves around many of the main characters being turned into weird versions of themselves, because both spouses try to share their stories and encounters with these characters while trying to conceal their identities.

Jay-Z’s Moonlight Music Video

“Moonlight” features many young prominent black actors taking on roles of Friends characters. Issa Rae plays Rachel, the role made famous by Jennifer Aniston. The song and video address the La La Land and Moonlight Oscars controversy. The one where Moonlight won Best Picture but La La Land’s name was read by mistake.

Many have spoken about Moonlight’s big win being overshadowed by the controversy of the whole situation. Jay-Z’s song takes it further by discussing the constant struggle of black artists and art to receive the same acclaim and recognition as white artists and art, even if it’s the exact same thing or better.

Drake’s Nice For What Video

Drake’s “Nice For What” features famous women in various settings. Some of the women shown are Misty Copeland, Olivia Wilde, Rashida Jones, Tiffany Haddish, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Issa Rae. In Issa Rae’s scenes, she is at the head of the table in a room full of white, old men.

The song and video act as a tribute to strong independent women. It’s a cool video to watch for all the cameos, editing, and look at the variety of respected women in various fields, especially the entertainment industry.

If you can’t get enough of Issa Rae, she has a series with HBOMax called Rap Sh*t expected to premiere in 2020. Her hit HBO series Insecure is airing it’s fourth season every Sunday on HBO. The Lovebirds is also currently available to stream on Netflix. Stream it here.

Netflix’s latest hit is The Lovebirds, a hilarious rom-com featuring the star of two of HBO’s most beloved shows Insecure from Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani of Silicon Valley. The on-screen couple are a joy to witness because of their electric chemistry, lighthearted spitfire back-and-forths and the refreshing representation they bring to the genre.

The leads of The Lovebirds were aware of the responsibility that came with playing a POC couple. As Issa Rae recently told us here on CinemaBlend, she and Kumail Nanjiani collaborated closely on the film as executive producers and had conversations with the filmmakers about making their characters feel like real people. And another part of that process was addressing race. In Rae’s words to The New York Times:

In the instance of The Lovebirds, Issa Rae’s Leilani and Kumail Nanjiani’s Jibran witness a murder and are later framed for the crime. The couple flee the scene scared the police will not believe their story, in part due to their race. When the couple was initially given the script, it wasn’t catered to their specific identities and the leads felt it needed to be addressed in the film in order for it to feel authentic to their characters. Nanjiani elaborated with this:

The Lovebirds definitely finds itself tackling another set of conflicts once a black woman and Pakistani man are at the center of a crime conflict. But thankfully Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani have been particularly successful in embracing their race on screen in the past, both tastefully and head-on.

The Lovebirds has already found success on Netflix since its release last Friday, scoring a fresh 67% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 4 out of 5 stars from CinemaBlend’s Eric Eisenberg. The movie debuted at No. 1 on the streaming platform before getting beat out by two older Adam Sandler films and sinking down to the No. 10 spot.

Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani looked to films like The Break-Up and The Thin Man for their first collaboration and filmed the movie in New Orleans. A movie like The Lovebirds certainly contributes to the growing new age of rom-coms in recent years focused on relationships other than the classics that focus on predominantly white actors in lead roles.

Kumail Nanjiani’s 2017 breakout film The Big Sick, which is the autobiographical love story of his and his wife Emily V. Gordon was nominated for an Oscar and tops CinemaBlend’s best rom-coms of the decade. It was an endearing rom-com and it embedded relevant topics in the Pakistani culture such as arranged marriages and awkward conversations around 9/11.

The Lovebirds is now streaming on Netflix.

As a finished film, Michael Showalter’s The Lovebirds is a blast. Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae make for a delightful pair of leads for the romantic comedy, and the adventure they’re on is both engaging and hilarious. It’s work that all involved can be proud of – but like any work, the experience making it had both real challenges in addition to wonderful, unique rewards.

I had the pleasure of interviewing the stars of The Lovebirds earlier this month, and my final question to the duo was a broad one, having them look back at the total experience of making the film, and single out some of their biggest takeaways. As you’ll see clicking play on the video above, the process of making the movie wreaked a bit of havoc with the stars’ circadian rhythms, but it also gave them the opportunity to explore one of the most special places in America:

Part of what makes The Lovebirds impressive on a story level is the fact that it almost entirely takes place over the course of a single night – but the word “night” is significant in that sentence because it required the production to operate odd hours. While anything set indoors could be shot at any time, the majority of sequences taking place outside had to be filmed after the sun had gone down.

Working like that would mess with anybody, and Kumail Nanjiani acknowledged that it was a challenge for him in the making of the new move. Addressing the first half of my question, the actor explained,

Considering that a great deal of the filmmaking process for an actor is patiently waiting around while also being consistently on call, it’s easy to see how night shoots may drive a person a little batty. Fortunately, the exhaustion that was apparently felt behind the scenes isn’t present in the movie at all (in fact, it’s actually surprising how totally alert the characters are throughout their all-night adventure – though that could be attributed to the adrenaline rush that comes with trying to solve a murder while simultaneously dodging the police).

Issa Rae agreed that doing all of the night shoots required for The Lovebirds wasn’t overly pleasant, but felt that the scales were balanced by the fact that during the production they were living in a remarkable place: New Orleans. Unlike some films, which shoot in the Louisiana city but ultimately have it stand in for another location, the new comedy is actually set in the Big Easy, and Rae loved that making the movie gave her the chance to spend some real time there:

It was a sentiment that was immediately echoed by Kumail Nanjiani, who was given his first chance to really explore New Orleans and embed himself in the special culture in possess:

The Lovebirds, which co-stars Paul Sparks, Anna Camp, Moses Storm, and Kyle Bornheimer, is now streaming on Netflix. You can check out my full review of the film here, and head over to YouTube to watch my full interview with the stars.

In Michael Showalter’s The Lovebirds, audiences are introduced to an atypical movie couple. Rather than being a film that focuses on watching love blossom first between the characters played by Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae, the story instead fast-forwards you four years into their relationship as they are on the verge of being ready to break up. It’s not the normal thing that you see in Hollywood titles, but that simply led the stars to dig a little deeper to find some cinematic inspiration for their roles, which I learned during an interview with the actors last week.

With The Lovebirds set to arrive on Netflix this Friday, I had the wonderful opportunity to hop on a video chat with Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae, and my first question for the duo was in regard to the history of the bickering couple in the romantic comedy genre, and titles that they looked to in hopes of being authentic. You can check out their responses by clicking play on the video below:

In The Lovebirds, Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae star as Jibran and Leilani – a couple that has spent years together, but mutually agree that it’s time for them to split while driving over to a friend’s place for dinner. Making things go from bad to worse, their car winds up not only being hijacked by a man pretending to be a cop, but is then used as a murder weapon to kill a man on a bicycle. Fearing that they will be convicted of the crime, the protagonists decide that the only way to clear their name before they get arrested is to try and solve the mystery themselves.

Describing his own pop culture touchstone for the project, Kumail Nanjiani reached deep into Hollywood history, and plucked out some fantastic inspiration from one of the great early big screen couples: Nick and Nora Charles, the stars of the Thin Man franchise from the 1930s. The classic films followed the duo – the former a retired detective, and the latter a wealthy heiress – and stars William Powell and Myrna Loy earned raves for their characters’ sarcastic and witty repartee while out sleuthing together.

Even near a century following their release, the classic mystery movies are still serving as inspiration, and you can definitely witness the spirit at the heart of The Lovebirds.

Going a bit more modern with her pick, Issa Rae dug into the idea of a comedic film tracking the fracture of a relationship, and highlighted Peyton Reed’s The Break Up as a title she found herself referencing and reflecting on in the making of her new movie. It’s not an easy thing for a story to both make an audience laugh and also have the lead characters demonstrate a consistent animosity toward each other, but that’s something that the Vince Vaughn-Jennifer Aniston movie does well, and it evidently stuck out in Rae’s mind as The Lovebirds started coming together.

The best news of all is that the work paid off. The Lovebirds is not only a super funny film, but Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae are brilliant together, and share some of the best chemistry we’ve seen in a while from a romantic comedy that goes all-in on both the romance and the humor. It’s a real treat, and one that you’ll soon be able to enjoy for yourselves.

The film was originally set to be a theatrical release scheduled to come out in early April, but given current world events plans were changed, and now it will soon be coming directly to your house. The Lovebirds will begin exclusively streaming on Netflix starting this Friday, May 22, and be sure to stay tuned here on CinemaBlend for more from my interview with the stars!

New movies are few and far between these days. And even when a new movie comes to streaming or paid VOD, it lately has been animated family fare like Scoob! or Trolls World Tour, mainly to help families who are looking for distractions during the time of social distancing. Michael Showalter’s The Lovebirds, though, is finally here to make grown ups laugh. The movie was due to have a global premiere at South By Southwest. That because a delayed release date, and now it’s going to Netflix.

But is it any good? Reviews dropped today, starting with our own analysis from CinemaBlend Film Critic Eric Eisenberg. He praised the chemistry between leads Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae. He writes:

Over at IGN, Kristy Puchko makes comparison to the underrated Game Night when praising the structure of The Lovebirds:

Joey Magidson of Hollywood News also finds a lot to love (get it?) about the Lovebirds leads, going so far as to say:

Bold claim! But at the moment, the movie has a 100% Fresh grade on Rotten Tomatoes, though it’s early in the game. Since there’s nothing but positivity out there at the moment for The Lovebirds, let’s conclude on Film Racket’s 3-star review, which claims:

Sounds like a winner! Paramount sold The Lovebirds over to Netflix, meaning you will be able to watch it beginning on Friday, May 22. Did these reviews sell you on checking it out?

Great chemistry between a pair of leads in a film can never be a full substitute for sharp writing and smart direction, but it certainly can be one hell of an X factor. When two performers can produce a special dynamic that really clicks, it can enhance every other aspect of a movie – and while that’s a verity true for all genres, it can be particularly important for romantic comedies. If a pair of actors can authentically bring a relationship to life in a story while also operating with harmonious timing, the results can be exceptional.

In case it isn’t obvious where this is heading, Michael Showalter’s The Lovebirds is a wonderful demonstration of this fact. Going into the film, stars Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae had no shared credits (other than both being main characters in their own HBO shows), but the new film reveals them as fantastic collaborators who can generate a wonderful and hilarious back-and-forth while the story throws challenge after challenge in their characters’ way. Plot-wise, it’s not precisely a unique creation, but it has its own flavor and is consistently hilarious.

When we first meet Jibran (Kumail Nanjiani) and Leilani (Issa Rae), they are a clicking pair who find what could be a one night stand evolve into something more… but time then hits them like a sock full of quarters to the eye socket. Four years into their relationship they do nothing but bicker and snipe at each other, frequently fighting about the totally inconsequential. One night, while on their way to attend an event at a friend’s place, they decide that enough is enough and that their time together has run its course – but, naturally, fate has other plans.

Mere moments after agreeing to terminate their relationship, Jibran and Leilani accidentally hit a clearly panicked cyclist (Nicholas X. Parsons) with their car, and that’s only the start of their bad night. When the victim flees the scene, a man who introduces himself as a cop (Paul Sparks) commandeers their vehicle and gives chase, and our protagonists cheer him on believing that he is hunting down an on-the-run criminal. The mood entirely changes, though, when the stranger opts not to take down and arrest the guy on the bike, but instead run him over several times to ensure that he is dead.

When witnesses on the scene cause the killer to disappear before he can take care of Jibran and Leilani as loose ends, the two leads begin to freak out. Recognizing that they look exceptionally guilty, and with no immediate means of proving their innocence, the decision is made to run away – not immediately realizing that it really only makes the situation much worse. Putting their heads together, they agree that the only way for them to clear their names is to find the murderer themselves, sending them on a wild adventure through the night.

While there are a few clichés in play, The Lovebirds will still surprise you.

The idea of an everyday couple finding themselves in over their heads on a wild night full of crime and chaos is a genre exercise that we see pop up every few years, with Shawn Levy’s Date Night and John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein’s Game Night being two recent examples that spring to mind, but The Lovebirds never feels tired because its execution always feels so rich. The film operates in familiar waters, and doesn’t exactly shy away from tropes (such as the couple needing to escape an amateur hostage situation, and then later conducting their own take on an intimidating interrogation), but the recognition of the material is secondary in the moment, as you’re too busy laughing to think about the other movies where you’ve seen similar setups.

Further to its credit, the script is smarter than you might think, as it repeatedly finds ways to keep out in front of the audience. There are occasional moments where you find yourself as a viewer questioning some of the choices made – either made by the characters or by the plot – but before you can even fully formulate the plot the movie finds ways to address those issues (not all, but most). It even manages to hook a nice third act twist into the works that has the effect of elevating the material preceding it.

Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae are phenomenal together.

What takes The Lovebirds over the goal line, however, is just the struck gold that is the back-and-forth energy that Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae are able to generate, resulting in numerous laugh out loud scenes and a permanent smile watching them in action. There exists a fine line for them to walk, as the heightened nature of the situation has to be balanced out by natural reactions and a grounded relationship, but both actors do brilliant work, and get the most out of the material. In any circumstance, whether they are scared or acting big, they get laughs.

Additionally, they’re able to pull off a fascinating kind of magic trick with their relationship, with their excellent chemistry being the key to it all. There are a number of potential hazards in having a squabbling couple as leads, but Nanjiani and Rae succeed not falling in any of the traps. While there are certainly negative emotions at play, they are never mean-spirited or really hateful, and the movie doesn’t even really utilize awkwardness as a comedic device. What sounds like bickering on the surface is banter on a deeper level, and it’s thanks to the compatible skill and timing of the stars.

With The Lovebirds, Michael Showalter further cements himself as one of the best comedy directors in Hollywood.

It’s clear that Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae have talent that is going to take them very far in the coming years, but not to be totally overshadowed is Michael Showalter, who is quickly becoming one of the best comedy directors working today. The humor and setup is a bit broader than the filmmaker’s last two feature efforts – My Name Is Doris and The Big Sick – but seeing him execute that kind of range at this point in his career is more exciting than anything, particularly because The Lovebirds works so well. There has never been any question about Showalter knowing funny, as he has been demonstrating that particular skill as both an actor and a writer for decades at this point, but it’s fantastic that he’s now getting such great opportunities as a director.

It’s always wonderful to see a romantic comedy with an equal balance of its genre delineation, and that’s precisely what The Lovebirds does. In addition to being uproarious at times, it inspires the desire to see Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae in dozens more projects together, as they are hilarious and electric. It’s a winner.

Soon, to paraphrase the works of that modern troubadour Justin Timberlake, it's gonna be May. And with a new month being torn off of the calendar, that means there's another lineup of content waiting for those of you who are still glued to your TV screens. Considering the state of the world right now, that's going to be a lot of you, which means this new shipment of Netflix streaming content probably looks heaven sent.

Friends, you have no idea how right you are. If you're curious about what's debuting on the Netflix platform through the remainder of April, you can head to our previous rundown of that very knowledge at your leisure. But if you're ready for the future, then follow us into May 2020's Netflix debuts for both movies and TV.

Available May 1

All Day and a Night - NETFLIX FILM

Almost Happy - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Get In - NETFLIX FILM

Go! Go! Cory Carson: The Chrissy - NETFLIX FAMILY

The Half Of It - NETFLIX FILM

Hollywood - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Into the Night - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Medici: The Magnificent: Part 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Mrs. Serial Killer - NETFLIX FILM

Reckoning: Season 1 - Exclusively on Netflix

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective

Back to the Future

Back to the Future Part II

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Cracked Up, The Darrell Hammond Story

Den of Thieves

For Colored Girls

Fun with Dick & Jane

I Am Divine

Jarhead

Jarhead 2: Field of Fire

Jarhead 3: The Siege

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa

Masha and the Bear: Season 4

Material

Monthly Girls' Nozaki Kun: Season 1

Sinister

Song of the Sea

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

The Heartbreak Kid

The Patriot

Thomas & Friends: Marvelous Machinery: A New Arrival

Thomas & Friends: Marvelous Machinery: World of Tomorrow

Thomas & Friends: Thomas and the Royal Engine

Underworld

Underworld: Evolution

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans

Urban Cowboy

What a Girl Wants

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

Week of May 4

Arctic Dogs – 5/4/20

Jerry Seinfeld: 23 Hours To Kill - NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL - 5/5/20

Workin' Moms: Season 4 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/6/20

Scissor Seven: Season 2 - NETFLIX ANIME - 5/7/20

18 regali - NETFLIX FILM - 5/8/20

Chico Bon Bon: Monkey with a Tool Belt - NETFLIX FAMILY - 5/8/20

Dead to Me: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/8/20

The Eddy - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/8/20

The Hollow: Season 2 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 5/8/20

House at the End of the Street - 5/8/20

Restaurants on the Edge: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/8/20

Rust Valley Restorers: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/8/20

Valeria - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/8/20

Charmed: Season 2- 5/9/20

Grey's Anatomy: Season 16- 5/9/20

Week of May 11

Bordertown: Season 3 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/11/20

Have a Good Trip: Adventures in Psychedelics - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 5/11/20

Trial By Media - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 5/11/20

True: Terrific Tales - NETFLIX FAMILY - 5/12/20

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy Vs. the Reverend - NETFLIX INTERACTIVE SPECIAL - 5/12/20

The Wrong Missy - NETFLIX FILM - 5/13/20

Riverdale: Season 4 - 5/14/20

Chichipatos - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/15/20

District 9 - 5/15/20

I Love You, Stupid - NETFLIX FILM - 5/15/20

Inhuman Resources - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/15/20

Magic for Humans: Season 3 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/15/20

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power: Season 5 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 5/15/20

White Lines - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/15/20

La reina de Indias y el conquistador - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/16/20

Public Enemies - 5/16/20

United 93 - 5/16/20

Soul Surfer - 5/17/20

Week of May 18

The Big Flower Fight - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/18/20

Patton Oswalt: I Love Everything - NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL - 5/19/20

Sweet Magnolias - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/19/20

Trumbo - 5/19/20

Ben Platt Live From Radio City Music Hall - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 5/20/20

The Flash: Season 6 - 5/20/20

Rebelión de los Godinez - NETFLIX FILM - 5/20/20

Control Z - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/22/20

History 101 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/22/20

Just Go With It - 5/22/20

The Lovebirds - NETFLIX FILM - 5/22/20

Selling Sunset: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/22/20

Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 5/22/20

Dynasty: Season 3 - 5/23/20

Week of May 25

Ne Zha - 5/25/20

Norm of the North: Family Vacation - 5/25/20

Uncut Gems - 5/25/20

Hannah Gadsby: Douglas - NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL - 5/25/20

I'm No Longer Here - NETFLIX FILM - 5/25/20

The Lincoln Lawyer - 5/25/20

Dorohedoro - NETFLIX ANIME – 5/28/20

La corazonada - NETFLIX FILM – 5/28/20

Space Force - NETFLIX ORIGINAL – 5/29/20

Somebody Feed Phil: Season 3 - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY – 5/29/20

High Strung Free Dance – 5/31/20

May TBD

Blood & Water - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Kenny Sebastian: The Most Interesting Person in the Room - NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL

Mystic Pop-up Bar - NETFLIX ORIGINAL

Supergirl: Season 5

While you may not be able to go to the movies just yet, there's some good news when it comes to the films coming to Netflix's library in May 2020! Fresh from its recent acquisition as a Netflix original, The Lovebirds is coming online in the middle of the month, for you comedy fans out there to enjoy. As Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani struggle with relationship issues, and the ever present threat of death by criminal conspiracy, this fast and funny romp arrives only slightly later than it was previously scheduled to debut.

Though, should comedy be your bag, there's a rather interesting SNL alum double feature you could take in by the end of May's Netflix lineup. On the broader side of the spectrum, the Netflix film The Wrong Missy sees David Spade accidentally invite a wild and crazy Lauren Lapkus to a lavish corporate retreat. As you could guess, hilarity ensues, and it makes for only half of our proposed double feature.

As previously announced, the Adam Sandler/Safdie Brothers collaboration Uncut Gems is headed to Netflix toward the end of May's schedule. While it isn't a comedy, there are still some pretty funny segments that break up Sandler's Howard Ratner and his journey to pay off his creditors, while also attempting to strike it rich. How you watch these two films is up to you, but it'd definitely make for a wild mini-marathon of excitement.

Meanwhile, on the TV side of the aisle, Netflix's May 2020 debuts continue to impress, with some heavy hitters breaking out new long-form content. Ryan Murphy's tenure on the streaming giant's payroll continues with one of his most ambitious projects yet, the history (re)writing Hollywood, which uses an all-star cast to tell a more modern story in the golden age of Tinseltown. If you were hoping Jim Parsons would ever take a sledgehammer to his Big Bang Theory persona, watch the trailer for this one and get ready to smile.

Also breaking Netflix ground this month is La La Land and First Man director Damien Chazelle, as his drama series The Eddy is debuting as well. With Moonlight's Andre Holland playing a jazz club owner who's in a bit of a bind, this story of saving music in the most pressure of circumstances certainly feels like it hits Chazelle's sweet spots. If only Whiplash were available on Netflix to make a full night of anxiety and jazz a reality.

But you're probably not here to hear about those new series. You're probably still waiting to find out when Christina Applegate and Linda Cardelini's breakout hit series Dead To Me is coming back for that second season you were promised. Well, you'll only have to wait until May 4th, and your curiosity about what happens after Season 1's big finale will be satisfied.

There's so much more waiting for you to see, both in movies and TV, on Netflix's May 2020 lineup. So be sure to read those listings carefully, as these titles are subject to change and availability. So if you think something's missing or moved, we'll have those updates ready to go. Stay safe, stay entertained, and stream responsibly until next time, as June's Netflix lineup will be ready around this time in the next month.

Dwayne Johnson is a pretty busy man, and the current circumstances don’t seem to have slowed him down at all. Aside from prepping for roles in future projects like Black Adam, he’s also using social media to communicate with fans and open up about different aspects of his life. Well, it looks like the highly sought-after actor and producer is adding another TV project to his list, and he’s partnered with a well-known talent to make it happen.

Dwayne Johnson will executive produce a new series for HBO that centers on the world of backyard wrestling. Joining Johnson as an executive producer is writer, producer and actress Issa Rae, according to Variety. Dany Garcia, Johnson’s Seven Bucks Entertainment producing partner, will also executive produce under that banner.

The project has been tentatively titled Tre Cnt – or Tre Count – and focuses on a dock worker and struggling pro wrestler named Cassius Jones who lives in Houston’s Third Ward, also known as The Tre. With the help of his family friends and neighbors (and some inherited resources of his own) Cassius will seek to construct a hip-hop-centric backyard-wrestling empire.

Both Dwayne Johnson and Issa Rae have prior relationships with the premium cable channel. Johnson previously starred on the sports dramedy series Ballers, which wrapped up its five-season run last fall. Johnson and Garcia also served as executive producers on that show under their Seven Bucks Entertainment company. Meanwhile Rae currently stars on Insecure, another HBO dramedy, on which she serves as a writer and executive producer.

Judah Miller will executive produce and serve as showrunner, along with El Masri, who will also take on writing duties.

When it comes to wrestling, Dwayne Johnson has excellent credentials, having more than made a name for himself as The Rock during his WWE career. Since making the transition to film and TV, he’s also gravitated towards several sports-related projects. More recently, he produced and starred in the biographical sports dramedy Fighting with My Family, which centered on the life of former professional wrestler Paige. All in all, Johnson can make some key contributions to this project.

Wrestling may not be the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Issa Rae, but her skills as a producer and a comedic force should help the show immensely. In addition to Insecure, she’s also served as an executive producer on HBO’s A Black Lady Sketch Show as well as the upcoming comedy film Lovebirds.

Backyard wrestling is a subject that hasn’t really been explored in serialized television, and this could allow Tre Cnt to break some new ground for HBO and TV as a whole. And if things work out, Dwayne Johnson and Issa Rae will each have another hit for their already impressive resumes. Be sure to check in with CinemaBlend for more news on the series as it develops.

The Lovebirds, starring Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae, was supposed to get a theatrical release earlier this year. Instead, we've known for a while it would be going to Netflix rather than going to pay-on-demand as Universal recently tried with Trolls World Tour. Now, we've learned when the upcoming movie will finally be available to watch streaming.

Originally, The Lovebirds was supposed to be released in April, and since it had been delayed, no one knew when it was going to hit Netflix. Until now. Kumail Nanjiani went on social media with co-star Issa Rae to announce the release date will be May 22nd. Here’s the official announcement:

Outside of the fact that we learned Kumail Nanjiani watches The Great British Baking Show in his spare time (just to look at cakes since he can't actually eat them due to his new regimen), it's awesome to hear The Lovebirds will be released sooner rather than later. Plus, to highlight their comedic chops, this snappy little video is a perfect taste of what we'll get in the movie.

If you were wondering what Issa Rae meant by "Mr. Marvel," Kumail Nanjiani has been hard at work with several projects, including Marvel’s upcoming The Eternals. Like most actors thrust into superhero roles, he got jacked for his role and the internet definitely took notice.

The Lovebirds is a romantic comedy directed by Michael Showalter, who also helmed The Big Sick, and the movie is about a couple who get wrapped up in a murder mystery which becomes a big moment for their budding, head-over-heels relationship. By the looks of the trailer, this is going to be pretty hilarious.

While it’ll be great we can still watch this on Netflix, it’s somewhat of a shame the film won’t get its due on the big screen. By the looks of the trailer, and with Michael Showalter’s track record for funny and touching comedies, it has the potential to be a great comedy.

You may recognize Issa Rae from her starring role as Leilani on HBO's Insecure and her latest movie Little, a story about a woman who becomes her younger self during a stressful point in her life. Be ready to see a lot more of Issa and her style of comedy in the future. She and Will Packer Productions have sparked a nice working relationship, and Will Packer said he wants to do more with her in the future.

If, like Kumail Nanjiani, you're busy binge-watching Netflix, but need more television shows to watch. Take heart, they have plenty coming in 2020. In fact, it's going to be a huge year for Netflix. From follow ups like Stranger Things to 13 Reasons Why to BoJack Horseman, you'll likely be set for a long time.

As for movies, The Lovebirds isn't the the only comedy movie being sent from theatrical release to streaming. It was announced My Spy, starring Dave Bautista will be heading to Amazon Prime. But, if you have a Netflix account, and need a nice date night idea, The Lovebirds looks like it'll be the one to catch.

Over the past week, just about every title you could have picked to see in a movie theater has been given an early VOD release. Next up is Paramount’s upcoming romantic comedy The Lovebirds, starring Silicon Valley’s Kumail Nanjiani and Insecure’s Issa Rae. But unlike other titles, such as Birds of Prey and Bloodshot, which must be rented or purchased, this laugh-out-loud murder mystery is heading to Netflix.

A specific streaming date has not yet been announced for The Lovebirds, but the deal is currently being worked out and is expected to be released soon. The movie’s fate on Netflix has reportedly been in the works for a while too, per Deadline. The Lovebirds was originally slated to come to theaters on April 3, following a March world premiere at SXSW in Texas.

The Lovebirds has Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani playing a couple who unintentionally become the witnesses to a murder that they end up being framed for. The couple do run from the crime scene… so it does look awfully suspicious. Since all major movie theaters have closed down across the country and the Dallas film festival was also cancelled, the studio likely didn’t have much of a choice but to drop The Lovebirds from the big screen.

Although The Lovebirds is losing out on box office money, a deal with Netflix could still prove profitable for the Paramount film. The studio has made deals with the streaming platform before for films such as The Cloverfield Paradox and Annihilation, the latter on the international front. News of this deal comes on the same day the studio announced its February blockbuster Sonic the Hedgehog is coming to VOD early.

The record-breaking video game adaptation will be available to purchase on March 31 for $20 after making $306 million worldwide over the past month in theaters. Disney also announced today that Pixar’s Onward would be available to buy early before hitting Disney+ on April 3. Also heading to digital are The Invisible Man, The Hunt, Emma, I Still Believe and The Way Back, although those first movies will be rental only for now.

Following five years on HBO’s Silicon Valley, Kumail Nanjiani has gained more popularity for his Oscar-nominated biographical comedy The Big Sick, Stuber and his highly-anticipated role of Kingo in Marvel’s The Eternals. The actor went viral when he posted his incredible body transformation while prepping for the MCU role.

Issa Rae started on YouTube producing her web series Awkward Black Girl before being hired to make the hit comedy Insecure. In recent years, the actress has been breaking out into movies with last year’s Little and The Photograph with Lakeith Stanfield. Check out these exciting movies coming to Netflix in April and stay tuned on CinemaBlend for The Lovebirds’ official new release date.

While this isn't the April most people had envisioned, the looming prospect of quarantining against the COVID-19 virus is something that, with the right attitude, could have entertaining components. Streaming services like Hulu are likely going to become even more valuable thanks to people staying at home and a healthy selection of entertaining titles should be important now more than ever.

In addition to the titles that are already online, there are a bunch of new and exciting movies and TV shows that are heading to streaming. So without further ado, here's what's new and exciting on the Hulu platform coming up in the month of April 2020.

Week of April 1

Kabukicho Sherlock: Complete Season 1 (DUBBED) (Funimation) - 4/1/20

60 Days In: Narcoland: Complete Season 1 (A&E) - 4/1/20

90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After?: Complete Season 4 (TLC) - 4/1/20

Alone: Complete Season 6 (History) - 4/1/20

Breaking Amish: Complete Seasons 2 & 3 (TLC) - 4/1/20

Bring It!: Complete Season 5 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Chopped: Complete Season 36 (Food Network) - 4/1/20

Cutthroat Kitchen: Complete Season 12 (Food Network) - 4/1/20

Dance Moms: Complete Seasons 2 & 6 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives: Complete Seasons 27 – 29 (Food Network) - 4/1/20

Dr. Pimple Popper: Complete Season 3 (TLC) - 4/1/20

Fast N' Loud: Complete Season 13 (Discovery) - 4/1/20

Fixer Upper (How We Got to Here: Looking Back on Fixer Upper): Special (HGTV) - 4/1/20

Forged in Fire: Complete Season 6 (History) - 4/1/20

Gold Medal Families: Complete Season 1 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Hidden Potential: Complete Season 1 (HGTV) - 4/1/20

House Hunters: Complete Season 120 (HGTV) - 4/1/20

Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole: Complete Season 1 (A&E) - 4/1/20

Little Women: Atlanta: Complete Season 5 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Little Women: LA: Complete Seasons 7 & 8 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Love It or List It: Complete Season 14 (HGTV) - 4/1/20

Married at First Sight: Complete Season 9 (FYI) - 4/1/20

Marrying Millions: Complete Season 1 (Lifetime) - 4/1/20

Property Brothers: Complete Seasons 10 & 11 (HGTV) - 4/1/20

Taken at Birth: Complete Season 1 (TLC) - 4/1/20

The Family Chantel: Complete Season 1 (TLC) - 4/1/20

The Food That Built America: Complete Season 1 (History) - 4/1/20

The Kitchen: Complete Seasons 16 – 18 (Food Network) - 4/1/20

Til Death Do Us Part: Complete Season 1 (ID) - 4/1/20

TRANsitioning: Complete Season 1 (FYI) - 4/1/20

The Ant Bully (2006) - 4/1/20

Bangkok Dangerous (2008) - 4/1/20

Bend It Like Beckham (2003) - 4/1/20

Blazing Saddles (1974) - 4/1/20

The Book Of Eli (2010) - 4/1/20

The Boost (1988) - 4/1/20

The Chumscrubber (2005) - 4/1/20

Diary of a Hitman (1991) - 4/1/20

Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who (2008) - 4/1/20

Dr. T. and the Women (2000) - 4/1/20

The Eternal (1998) - 4/1/20

The Full Monty (1997) - 4/1/20

Fun in Acapulco (1963) - 4/1/20

Gator (1976) - 4/1/20

Get Smart (2008) - 4/1/20

Gods and Monsters (1998) - 4/1/20

Gorky Park (1983) - 4/1/20

Hud (1963) - 4/1/20

Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003) - 4/1/20

Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004) - 4/1/20

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003) - 4/1/20

Let Me In (2010) - 4/1/20

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) - 4/1/20

The Mexican (2001) - 4/1/20

Misery (1990) - 4/1/20

Moll Flanders (1996) - 4/1/20

Phone Booth (2003) - 4/1/20

Repentance (2014) - 4/1/20

Risky Business (1983) - 4/1/20

Romancing the Stone (1984) - 4/1/20

The Jewel of the Nile (1985) - 4/1/20

The Sender (1982) - 4/1/20

Shirley Valentine (1989) - 4/1/20

Spider-Man (2002) - 4/1/20

Trapped: The Alex Cooper Story (2019) - 4/1/20

Victoria Gotti: My Father's Daughter (2019) - 4/1/20

Who Let The Dogs Out (2019) - 4/1/20

The X-Files: I Want to Believe (2008) - 4/1/20

Zombieland (2009) - 4/1/20

The Accused (1988) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Cadillac Man (1990) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Diana (2013) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Dude, Where's My Car? (2000) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Finding Steve McQueen (2019) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Forgotten (2004) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

My Bloody Valentine (1981) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Nanny McPhee Returns (2010) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Nutty Professor II: The Klumps (2000) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Nutty Professor (1996) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Original Sin (2001) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Paranormal Activity (2009) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Showtime (2002) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Snatch (2000) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Spider-Man (2002) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Spider-Man 2 (2004) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Superstar (1999) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Surf's Up (2007) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Undercover Brother (2002) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

WarGames (1983) - 4/1/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Future Man: Complete Final Season (Season 3) (Hulu) - 4/3/20

Your Pretty Face is Going to Hell: Complete Season 4 (Adult Swim) - 4/3/20

Siren: Season 3 Premiere (Freeform) - 4/3/20

Outcry: Documentary Series Premiere - 4/3/20 - (Showtime premium add-on required)

Zombieland: Double Tap (2019) - 4/3/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Comedian (2017) - 4/4/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Irrational Man (2015) - 4/4/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Lady in the Van (2015) - 4/4/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Week of April 5

Too Cautious Hero: Complete Season 1 (DUBBED) (Funimation) - 4/6/20

Where's My Roy Cohn? (2019) - 4/6/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

No Guns Life: Complete Season 1 (DUBBED) (Funimation) - 4/7/20

Parasite (2019) - 4/8/20

Who Wants to be a Millionaire?: Series Premiere (ABC) - 4/9/20

Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life: Complete Season 2a (DUBBED) (Funimation) - 4/9/20

Little Joe (2019) - 4/9/20

Real Housewives of Potomac: Complete Season 4 (Bravo) - 4/10/20

Garden State (2004) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Hellboy (2004) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Napoleon Dynamite (2004) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Night at the Museum II: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Rent Due (2020) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Sandlot (1993) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Sandlot 2 (2005) - 4/10/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Week of April 12

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: Complete Season 9B (Discovery Family) - 4/12/20

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic en Español: Complete Season 9B (Discovery Family) - 4/12/20

Insecure: Season 4 Premiere - 4/12/20 - (HBO premium add-on required)

Run: Series Premiere - 4/12/20 - (HBO premium add-on required)

The Bachelor: Listen to Your Heart: Series Premiere (ABC) - 4/14/20

The Baker and the Beauty: Series Premiere (ABC) - 4/14/20

Songland: Season 2 Premiere (NBC) - 4/14/20

Vault (2019) - 4/14/20

Unlocked (2017) - 4/14/20

Mrs. America: Series Premiere (FX on Hulu) - 4/15/20

The Masked Singer: Sing-Along Spectacular: Special (Fox) - 4/15/20

A Teacher (2013) - 4/15/20

The Messenger (2009) - 4/15/20

What We Do In The Shadows: Season 2 Premiere (FX) - 4/16/20

Harry Benson: Shoot First (2016) - 4/16/20

Funny People (2009) - 4/16/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Overcomer (2019) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Animal (2001) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Bachelor Party (1984) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Bulworth (1998) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

First Sunday (2008) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The French Connection (1971) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

The Haunting (1999) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Ithaca (2015) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Sense and Sensibility (1995) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Small Soldiers (1998) - 4/17/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Big Fat Liar (2002) - 4/18/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Bigger Fatter Liar (2017) - 4/18/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Week of April 19

Night of Too Many Stars: Special - 4/18/20 - (HBO premium add-on required)

Paranormal Activity 3 (2011) - 4/20/20

A Kind Of Murder (2016) - 4/20/20

Generation Columbine (2019) - 4/20/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Special-7: Complete Season 1 (DUBBED) (Funimation) - 4/22/20

Cunningham (2019) - 4/23/20

We’re Here: Series Premiere - 4/23/20 - (HBO premium add-on required)

Abominable (2019) - 4/24/20

Beethoven (1992) - 4/24/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Week of April 26

Penny Dreadful: City of Angels: Series Premiere - 4/26/20 - (Showtime premium add-on required)

I Know This Much is True: Limited Series Premiere - 4/27/20 - (HBO premium add-on required)

Toxic Beauty (2019) - 4/27/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

Footloose (2011) - 4/29/20

The Bravest (2019) - 4/29/20 - (Starz premium add-on required)

2020 Billboard Music Awards: Special (NBC) - 4/30/20

From the TV end of things, new originals are coming online that further show off just how impressive Hulu's library has become, both on its own and with the new FX on Hulu banner of programming. It's the end of the line for cult comedy hit Future Man, as its third and final season is set to get crazy in April.

Meanwhile, FX is returning with two of its most critically acclaimed fan favorites. Season 4 of the anthology series Fargo will see Chris Rock making some mob moves in the 1950s south, in a role that Rock himself has praised as a dream opportunity. Iif you're curious as to what vampiric antics are to come in the world of What We Do In The Shadows, Season 2 returns with Nandor, Nadja, Laszlo, Colin, and of course Guillermo, all ready to take a bite out of what's next.

Lastly, if you happen to have an HBO or Showtime premium add-on subscription, you're going to be even happier about your investment in a Hulu subscription. The former channel offers the return of Issa Rae's series Insecure, which is back after a longer-than-usual hiatus. On Showtime's docket for April is the return of a horror series, as Penny Dreadful: City of Angels starts a brand new chapter in the world of spooky happenings underneath the surface of 1938 Los Angeles.

Of course, people cannot live on TV alone, which means the movie section of Hulu needs to sweeten the pot with something spectacular throughout the month of April. With the kids (likely) home from school, there are only so many times parents can watch Frozen 2 with the little ones. So another recent kids movie would be a real treat about now, which is why Dreamworks' Abominable is going to be a welcome arrival in the Hulu library.

What about the adults? Well, as luck would have it, there's two pretty big double features that can be enjoyed, with or without a premium add-on subscription. If you're just a subscriber of the base package for Hulu, you can watch both parts of Quentin Tarantino's masterful film Kill Bill in one sitting. Yes, that's right, one movie in two parts, all ready for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

However, if you're a Starz premium add-on subscriber, and you're a fan of the 2009 comedy Zombieland, you can quarantine yourself with a movie about a much worse scenario than the one we're currently enduring. The original film is available with Hulu, while its sequel, Zombieland: Double Tap, will be streaming after its early April debut through Starz. So, be sure you've got a robust supply of Twinkies before hitting play, because you know you'll need them.

Last, but not least, there's the welcome arrival of Academy Award winner Parasite, which will most assuredly please film fans who have, or have not, enjoyed that twisty thriller just yet. Go in as cold as you can, and prepare to understand a lot of the memes that spawned from the movie once you've enjoyed it yourself!

And there you have it. April's Hulu lineup has made itself known, and you're ready to enjoy a whole bunch of brand new TV and movie options; plus yet another installment of Into The Dark! But be warned, titles are subject to change and availability; so make sure to check this schedule carefully, in case something seems to have moved out of line. With that, we'll see you back here around this same time next month, to explore what May will bring to the Hulu catalog!

Romance at the movies is something that’s almost assured whenever Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Much like how October is known to drum up some scares for Halloween, there are films that are tailor made for the holiday, and writer/director Stella Meghie’s The Photograph is meant to be a prime piece of cinematic candy for the masses.

A dual-focused love story, half of The Photograph is about Mae (Issa Rae), a woman falling for Michael, a journalist (Lakeith Stanfield) who’s researching a story about her late, estranged mother, a noted photographer named Christina Eames (Chante Adams). While Mae and Michael move through their courtship, a second story is told, through a letter that Christina left her daughter before her passing.

This second narrative focuses on Christina’s love affair with a man named Issac (Y’lan Noel), and how things eventually fell apart between the two during their short time together in the 1980s. As Mae learns more about her mother, she questions her own personality in return, wondering if she has the same problems with love her mother did.

In the end, both of The Photograph’s stories are supposed to come together to make an interesting whole. That isn’t the case, though, as this unfocused narrative divides more than conquers the attention of its audience, telling two stories that don't quite lock together.

There are two stories at work in The Photograph, and neither is given enough time to be properly built.

Both of the stories being told in The Photograph would be fine if they were told in their own, self-contained strands; or, at the very least, if one of the plots were to be given priority in the narrative that occupies this film’s structure. It’s particularly frustrating that when it feels like one scenario just starts to get interesting, the movie switches tracks to the other half of things to check in. With that sort of energy at work, The Photograph doesn’t allow the audience to really take hold of either side firmly, leaving two half stories that don’t meet together like the puzzle pieces they’re meant to be.

Even a little bit of pruning of the flashback story in order to let the modern angle take priority would be an improvement, as the framework of The Photograph is supposed to be focused on the progression of Mae and Michael’s relationship. That focus is missing a little something to tie it all together, because of the fact that both stories feel like they could have been their own movies.

Romantic comedy tropes are mixed with romantic drama, adding up to a confused overall tone.

Something else that seems to crop up in The Photograph’s confused plot structure is the fact that both stories seem to have a different intention in mind. Trying to marry these two halves together could work in some cases, but based on what it seems the film is trying to provide for its audience, it would have been better for the stories to be fleshed out in their own space.

In terms of the modern plot following Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield, The Photograph feels more like a romantic comedy with an added serious weight to it. There’s a ton of cute moments between our protagonists, and in a refreshing reversal, Rae gets to play the stronger half of the duo while Stanfield is the lovesick dreamer. Add in some quirky side characters played by Lil Rel Howery and Jasmine Cephas-Jones, each helping one of our romantic leads sort their feelings, and you've got the template for a version of The Photograph that could have been lighter and more romantically engaging.

Meanwhile, Chante Adams and Y’lan Noel’s half of the narrative is a drama about the personal nature of relationships, especially when one half is more invested than the other. Seeing their hearts break, and even watching Christina's evolving home life with both her mother and her boyfriend, is a more serious experience that is meant to make the audience feel the weight of the drama. There are complimentary threads between these two halves, which if woven correctly could have been rather effective, but without that cohesion, The Photograph misses an important mark in its romantic journey across time.

Despite the chemistry of Lakeith Stanfield and Issa Rae, The Photograph won’t sweep you off your feet.

Even as the narrative and tonal confusion throw off The Photograph, there’s still some aspects that should be celebrated about this film. In particular, the casting of Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield is inspired, as both performers are absolutely charming individually. Those hoping that Mae and Michael make for a sweet couple won’t be disappointed, as their vulnerability and jovial nature is beautiful.

With a more bittersweet context, Chante Adams’s Christina and Y’lan Noel’s Issac also sparkle as the doomed couple that are destined to fall out. We only get to experience bits and pieces of their story, as these flashbacks are supposed to really be building the character of Mae and her distrust in love. It’s because of that intent that audiences who really get wrapped up in either half of this story are bound to be let down, as there’s no greater depth to either side provided.

Overall, the total experience of The Photograph is still a bit underwhelming, but still serves as a seasonal entry in the cinematic canon of Valentine’s Day titles. A lush musical score by composer/pianist Robert Glasper helps tie together, with airy jazz tunes playing the mournful and lovely sides of this movie’s narrative coin to the hilt.

While the holiday will certainly draw folks out to the theaters to see this movie, don’t expect it to sweep you off your feet entirely. Rather, think of The Photograph as a first date that isn’t a total disaster, but still makes you weigh your options before calling for a second meetup.

Murder mysterious as a tried and true genre in filmmaking. Audiences have been enjoying this type of film for decades, as they attempt to figure out whodunit before the detective onscreen. Rian Johnson recently had great success with his murder mystery comedy Knives Out, which continues to make money and has even inspired plans for a sequel. Luckily for moviegoers, there's another one of these movies coming: Michael Showalter's The Lovebirds.

Michael Showalter has had a successful career, directing hits like The Big Sick and Wet Hot American Summer. His new romantic comedy The Lovebirds follows a couple as they accidentally get involved in a murder mystery. Kumail Nanjiani and Insecure actress/recent Oscar Nominations host Issa Rae star as the couple in question, and the movie looks like a wild ride. Check out The Lovebirds' first trailer below.

The Lovebirds trailer opens up by introducing us to its leading characters. Issa Rae and the recently ripped Kumail Nanjiani play a couple named Leilani and Jibran. It looks like one day Jibran gets up the courage to say "I love you", but their romantic moment is interrupted when he accidentally drives into a biker. Said biker gets back on and leaves the scene, when a "cop" commandeer their vehicle to catch the bike riding criminal. But instead of arresting him, said driver runs him over time and time again in the couple's compact car. Whoops.

It soon becomes clear that Leilani and Jibran have gotten themselves involved in something much bigger. The two are witnessed with the bicyclist's dead body, and realize they better get out of dodge. This puts the couple on the run, where they realize the only way to clear their names is to find the real killer and bring him to justice. This puts them on a wild misadventure that should make for plenty of comedic moments.

While The Lovebirds focuses on a murder mystery and deal with high takes, the trailer seems to tease a juxtaposition with the movie's comedy. For instance, the witnesses who find Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae's characters are hipster millennials, and we watch as the couple sloppily attempts to get away. As they get deeper into the underworld, it should be fun to see their fish out of water story, as Leilani and Jibran attempt to reveal the truth.

There will be some familiar faces in this first trailer for The Lovebirds, aside from the pair of leading actors. The fake cop/murderer is none other than House of Cards alum Paul Sparks who played ill-fated journalist Tom Yates. Pitch Perfect star Anna Camp also has a role, as one of the many adversaries the couple will encounter throughout the comedy.

Related: Video Reveals The Intense Eternals Workout That Got Kumail Nanjiani So Dang Fit

Throughout each of the scenes in The Lovebirds' first trailer, it's hammered down just how much Leilani and Jibran are out of their element. A variety of sequences are teased, all of which include one of them messing things up. Heels break, there's sloppy violence, and they're shown having poor judgement time and time again. It should be hilarious to see how it all plays out, especially with such a strong pair of comedians leading the cast.

The Lovebirds will hit theaters on April 3, 2020. In the meantime, check out our 2020 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.

Insecure series creator and star Issa Rae is making her leading big-screen debut this weekend alongside Marsai Martin in Big switcheroo, Little. The comedy may be the start of a beautiful partnership between the talent and Will Packer Productions, who has previously given Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish breakout movie roles (Ride Along and Girls Trip) that rocketed them into super-stardom.

Only time will tell if Little is Issa Rae’s, but you can bet Will Packer fell head over heels for Rae’s comedy chops in their first collaboration. In my recent interview with the producer, he couldn’t help gushing about her. In Packer’s words:

Yes! The actress has made a name for herself on HBO as the voice of her own series that centers on her own awkward experiences (mostly hilarious, sometimes a whole lot of dramatic) living in Los Angeles but more roles on the big screen is certainly the next step for her. Will Packer continued showing his love for Issa Rae by discussing the next he has going with her. Check out what he told me:

This is definitely exciting. We may be witnessing the start of a very successful comedic career for Issa Rae with her work with blockbuster producer Will Packer. The Photograph is her next project that Universal has wasted no time getting up and running as it’s currently in production. According to Variety, the romantic-drama will focus on two intertwining love stories in the past and present and has a release date set for Valentine’s Day in 2020.

Issa Rae will be starring alongside LaKeith Stanfield who recently starred in Sorry to Bother You and Get Out. The actress also just wrapped filming a rom-com with Kumail Nanjiani called The Lovebirds. The film also set for release in early 2020 will be directed by Michael Showalter, who helmed Oscar-nominated rom-com The Big Sick. Issa Rae is also signed on to star in two other comedies in the future called Empress of Serenity and American Princess.

Get ready for a whole lot of more Issa Rae! The actress certainly has a relatable and funny charm that looks to be taking her far. Her new comedy Little is in theaters now.

Sometimes getting what you want is all about carving out your own opportunities for yourself, and Marsai Martin was ready to take that plunge at 10 years old. The young actress had just finished off her first season on the ABC comedy Black-ish as Diane, one of four children in Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross’ TV family. Take a break? Take a summer vacation like the other kids her age? Nah. She decided to pitch what became this weekend’s comedy release Little to the production company behind Think Like a Man and Ride Along. Doing so, she’d become the star and youngest executive producer in Hollywood history.

Will Packer Productions has grown in the past few years, including the 2017 mega-hit Girls Trip, and has boosted black comedians Tiffany Haddish and Kevin Hart into blockbuster leads. Here’s what Packer told me during a recent Little press day about the time Marsai Martin pitched her idea for the upcoming body-switch comedy:

If only we all had that kind of confidence that that age! Not only did the actress have the courage to step into the Hollywood executive’s office with creator of Black-ish, Kenya Barris, but she convinced Will Packer to actually make the movie too. Little is about successful tech entrepreneur Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall), who wakes up one morning as her younger self and must renavigate life as middle-schooler, as her assistant April (Issa Rae) covers for her back at work.

Tina Gordon, who also penned the script for What Men Want, was hired to write and direct the project and collaborated with Marsai Martin during the development process. Gordon admitted that she had some different ideas going into the project about what Marsai Martin’s character would take on. Here’s what she told me:

Early in the process, Little was going to primarily take place in the halls of Jordan’s old middle school, but Marsai Martin’s ability to take more on blew the writer/director away. The comedy instead is more about the growing relationship and hilarious quips between little Jordan and Issa Rae’s April as they form an unlikely friendship through the events on the film.

Marsai Martin also helped Tina Gordon implement how relevant social media is on her young generation and place it in the DNA of the film, in addition to it touching on the prevalence of bullying in middle school as well. When I asked the youngest executive producer ever if the job she took on was a different experience then she was expecting, here’s what she confidently said:

This 14-year-old is thriving in the cutthroat world of Hollywood without batting an eye. Marsai Martin did seem to place the right people around her for her film debut, as she had previously worked with both of the film’s stars before and much of the crew behind Black-ish followed her for Little. Think we’re going to have to watch out for this one! You can catch Little in theaters this Friday, April 12.

Jay-Z's latest album, 4:44, has arguably been as successful as fans expected it to be, winning over critics and selling like hotcakes. And the Grammy winner took on another massively popular piece of pop culture for his newest music video, which is a particularly strange quasi-spoof of the hit sitcom Friends, with all of the original actors replaced by some of the most talented black actors and actresses out there, including Jerrod Carmichael and Issa Rae. Check out a clip below, as shared by video director (and Master of None co-creator) Alan Yang.

Why is it so much fun to see all these recognizable celebs aping Friends' ridiculous opening credits? I don't know, but it is. Above, we see The Carmichael Show's Jerrod Carmichael as Ross, Insecure creator and star Issa Rae as Rachel, Girls Trip star Tiffany Haddish as Phoebe, Get Out's Lil Rey Howery as Joey, Westworld's Tessa Thompson as Monica, and Atlanta's LaKeith Stanfield as Chandler. (That's MS. Chanandler.) It's kind of awesome that such a thing can be replicated so well over two decades after the original opening was filmed.

Following the opening, "Moonlight" hits upon the classic Friends episode "The One Where No One's Ready," from Season 3. In the ep, Ross is stressing about nobody being ready for a function being held at the museum he works for, and Jay-Z's version has the actors all playing the Friends roles straight, performing the same dialogue and getting the same live audience laughs. The full video for "Moonlight" is currently only available to Tidal customers, as hinted at in the tweet above, but you can check out another clip from the video on Tidal's website right now, for which Jerrod Carmichael is a more enjoyable Ross than Ross was.

For a quick side-note, it is absolutely worth pointing out how bizarre it is that Carmichael is acting out a part from a popular NBC sitcom just ONE DAY after NBC execs laid out their explanations for why The Carmichael Show was cancelled at the end of June. Plus, we're less than a week away from the series finale airing. Timing, right?

In any case, the "Moonlight" video ends up taking a left turn that involves an appearance from Hannibal Burress, and while I won't spoil anything, suffice to say there's a statement being made about the general state of black entertainers in Hollywood. A purposeful lack of subtlety involved, too, made extremely clear when the song samples the infamous Oscars flub where Warren Beatty announced the wrong Best Picture winner.

While you're waiting for "Moonlight" to drop everywhere other than just Tidal, check out our summer premiere schedule and our fall TV schedule to see what new and returning shows are hitting the small screen soon.