Lee & Washington Reunite for Kurosawa Remake: 'High and Low' Gets American Treatment

Courtesy Photo: Universal Pictures 

Acclaimed director Spike Lee and iconic actor Denzel Washington are once again joining forces, this time to remake Akira Kurosawa's classic 1963 crime thriller "High and Low," Apple Original Films announced on Thursday.

Apple will co-finance the project, which will be theatrically released by independent film studio A24 before streaming on Apple TV+. This marks Lee and Washington's fifth collaboration, following their critically acclaimed work on films such as "Mo' Better Blues," "Malcolm X," "He Got Game" and "Inside Man" (2006).

The fifth Denzel and Spike joint.
High and Low, a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa's classic.

Filming starts in March.

— Apple Original Films (@AppleFilms) February 8, 2024

Kurosawa's "High and Low" is a suspenseful crime thriller with social commentary woven into its narrative. Based on Ed McBain's novel "King's Ransom," the film follows a wealthy industrialist whose life is thrown into chaos when his chauffeur's son is mistakenly kidnapped for ransom. As the tension mounts, Kurosawa explores themes of class disparity and human resilience.

Neat-o: It's a Spike Lee-Denzel Washington reunion as the duo, which haven't worked since 2006's INSIDE MAN, team up to make an English-language adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller HIGH AND LOW.https://t.co/CMBJP4yu1l

— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) February 8, 2024

Lee, known for his bold storytelling and unflinching social commentary, has directed numerous critically acclaimed films throughout his career. His diverse body of work includes groundbreaking titles like "Do the Right Thing" and the Denzel Washington-led biopic "Malcolm X."

Washington will once again take the lead in Lee's adaptation, which features a screenplay co-written by Lee and Alan Fox. Washington and producer Todd Black have previously collaborated on films like "Fences," "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "The Equalizer" franchise. Production is set to begin in March.

A24, a film studio known for its independent and acclaimed productions, will handle the theatrical distribution of the film before its global debut on Apple TV+. "High and Low" is being developed and produced by A24, Escape Artists and Mandalay Pictures. Black and Jason Michael Berman are producing, with Lee serving as executive producer through his 40 Acres And A Mule Filmworks. Peter Guber, along with others, will also serve as executive producer.

Actor and NFL Veteran Carl Weathers Dies at 76

Photo Credit: Luigi Novi, via Wikimedia Commons

Carl Weathers, the renowned actor and former NFL player, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday at the age of 76. His manager, Matt Luber, confirmed the news.

Weathers carved his name in cinematic history with his iconic portrayal of Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" series, alongside Sylvester Stallone. His career, spanning decades, showcased remarkable versatility as he seamlessly transitioned between action-packed roles like "Predator" and "Action Jackson" and comedic performances in "Happy Gilmore" and "Arrested Development."

Weathers' impact extended beyond the big screen. He voiced Combat Carl in the "Toy Story" franchise and lent his comedic talent to the popular series "Arrested Development." Despite his fame, he remained grounded, expressing gratitude for his journey.

Before Hollywood, Weathers played football, excelling at San Diego State University and spending a season with the Oakland Raiders before joining the Canadian Football League. He later earned a B.A. in drama, returning to his passion for acting.

In addition to his acting prowess, Weathers harbored a lesser-known love for music. He released a single, "That's Love Calling," in 1981, showcasing his vocal abilities.

Survived by his two sons, Weathers leaves behind a legacy of captivating performances, diverse talent, and an enduring impact on film and television.

From Comedy Gold to Classic Soul: 'Abbott Elementary' and 'The Color Purple' Lead Diverse NAACP Image Nominees

Hollywood's streaming giants are poised for a major clash at the 55th NAACP Image Awards, with Netflix leading the pack with 55 nominations. Rival Amazon trails closely behind with 27 nods, setting the stage for a thrilling battle for supremacy across film, television and music.

The Color Purple has 16 NAACP Image Awards Nominations pic.twitter.com/feMQLdHkRi

— Chlöe x Halle Now (@cxhnow) January 25, 2024

But beyond the streaming duel, a timeless classic reasserted its cultural relevance. "The Color Purple" garnered a commanding 16 nominations in the Outstanding Motion Picture category, earning acting recognition for powerhouses like Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, Taraji P. Henson, Colman Domingo and Corey Hawkins.

This year's nominations, unveiled Thursday, showcase the dazzling spectrum of artistic talent within the Black community. On the television front, the critically acclaimed comedy "Abbott Elementary" landed multiple nominations for its star-studded cast, including Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James and Sheryl Lee Ralph.

2024 NAACP Image Awards Nominations

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Ayo Edebiri – “The Bear”⁰Ego Nwodim – “Saturday Night Live”⁰Janelle James – “Abbott Elementary”⁰Sheryl Lee Ralph – “Abbott Elementary”⁰Shoniqua Shandai – “Harlem” pic.twitter.com/H5gVXjcb3m

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 25, 2024

Music saw Victoria Monét dominate with six nominations, including outstanding new artist, outstanding female artist, and outstanding album for "Jaguar II." Super Bowl LVIII performer Usher also grabbed five nominations, including outstanding male artist and outstanding music video/visual album for "Boyfriend."

2024 NAACP Image Awards Nominees Announced: Victoria Monét and Usher Lead Music Categories https://t.co/Y3uDvDGbcU

— 102.1 THE VILLE (@1021THEVILLE) January 25, 2024

"NAACP President Derrick Johnson called this year's nominees 'an inspiration to us all,'" stating, "The Image Awards stand as a tribute to their creativity, talent, and dedication to authentic storytelling, a testament to the richness and diversity of our community."

The public can have their say in select categories through voting, open until February 24 at www.naacpimageawards.net. The 55th NAACP Image Awards air live on March 16 at 8 PM Eastern Time on BET and CBS. A full list of nominees is available here.

Celebrating Excellence: Angela Bassett's Honorary Oscar a Highlight of Governors Awards

Angela Bassett, a trailblazing figure in Hollywood, took center stage as she received an honorary Oscar at the 14th Governors Awards on Tuesday night. The event, held at the Hollywood and Highland Center, celebrated Bassett's remarkable career, showcasing her impact on the industry.

Wearing a tuxedo, Bassett, known for her powerful performances, delivered an impassioned speech that delved into the history of Black actresses in Hollywood. She expressed gratitude for being recognized, acknowledging the significance of being only the second Black actress to receive an honorary Academy Award after Cicely Tyson.

Bassett reflected on the achievements of Black actresses who paved the way, from Hattie McDaniel's historic win in 1940 to the present day. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the importance of creating a future where the recognition of Black talent is the norm, not the exception.

"I hope this moment means we are taking the necessary steps toward a future in which it is the norm, not the exception, to see and embrace one another’s full humanity, stories, and perspectives," Bassett declared. She urged fellow Black actresses to stand strong, emphasizing that their contributions matter.

The 65-year-old actress closed her speech with optimism, stating, "The best is yet to come."

Oscar winner Regina King, a close friend and colleague, presented the honorary award to Bassett, describing her as a "national treasure" and "a sister." King celebrated Bassett's ageless artistry and highlighted her significant roles in iconic films like "Boyz N the Hood" and "How Stella Got Her Groove Back."

The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award was also presented at the ceremony, honoring Michelle Satter, the founding director of the Sundance Institute. Satter, the 45th recipient of the award and only the 10th woman to receive it, was recognized for her impactful work in supporting indie filmmakers.

The event, initially scheduled for November 18, had been delayed due to strikes in the industry. Despite being an untelevised ceremony, it drew attention as Hollywood's luminaries gathered to honor outstanding individuals in the film industry. The honorary Oscars were also awarded to legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks and film editor Carol Littleton.

From Suge Knight to Siddiq Feud: Williams Unpacks Controversies with Hip-Hop Icon Willie D

In a revelatory exploration of Hollywood's shadows, Katt Williams unleashed verbal grenades during interviews on two high-profile podcasts – first on Shannon Sharpe's "Club Shay Shay" and, more recently, on Willie D Live.

The initial shockwave reverberated when Williams, famed for his unfiltered comedy, took the spotlight on Sharpe's podcast. In a scorched-earth diatribe, he labeled certain Hollywood celebrities as "deviants" and predicted a 2024 reckoning.

#KattWilliams "All these Big Dick Deviants is catching hell in 2024" #TDJakes #Diddy ✅️😭 pic.twitter.com/PNw3IdqppB

— 🇺🇸 Clout (@Treason__Season) January 3, 2024

"Race is not where the line is drawn. It's God's side and the other side, and we don't care nothing about the other side," declared Williams, foreseeing an imminent exposure of all "deviants." His claim to fame? A 30-year collection of information, knowledge, and Hollywood's deepest secrets.

Williams aimed his verbal artillery at celebrities like Kevin Hart and Ludacris. He accused Ludacris of being a studio "plant" and claimed both were offered Illuminati deals involving haircuts and staggering sums of money. The three-hour podcast racked up nearly 40 million views, dominating the pop-culture landscape.

Katt Williams explains why he and Suge Knight got arrested back in 2014, and reveals why he's targeted by police.

(🎥Willie D Live/ YouTube ) pic.twitter.com/H32Foefxrr

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) January 9, 2024

The saga continued Tuesday on Willie D Live, where Williams shed light on different facets of his life in an interview that crossed a million views less than six hours after being posted. Notably, he addressed a 2014 incident that led to his arrest alongside ex-Death Row CEO Suge Knight. Contrary to initial appearances, Williams clarified that the altercation with a female photographer arose from a protective instinct toward Suge Knight's 5-year-old son.

Explaining the incident, Williams stated, "We had a meeting with a hologram company going into a licensing deal on holograms in Beverly Hills. Suge brought his 5-year-old son, who, before the meeting, urinated behind a dumpster. A woman filmed the child, not realizing he was Suge's son."

Williams didn't delve into the aftermath but dismissed the paparazzi's theft accusation, which led to charges against both him and Knight. He emphasized the protective nature of the encounter and clarified that he eventually pleaded no contest to stealing the camera in 2017.

Williams also addressed allegations from Houston comedian Ali Siddiq regarding an incident at a Reliant Arena show. Siddiq claimed he was barred from entering the venue and received a check, fueling a narrative of a feud with Williams.

Responding with clarity and a touch of amusement, Williams debunked Siddiq's version of events. He highlighted the logistical impossibility of excluding a comedian from the show when the lineup was pre-determined and traveled together. Williams brushed off the allegations, expressing bewilderment at Siddiq's claim.

"I don't care where you're from, what the venue is, or how cool you are with the people that work there. Cat Williams' show means Cat Williams' show," he asserted, emphasizing the professionalism of his tour and the lack of space for additional performers.

Williams further dismantled Siddiq's narrative, revealing that the incident transpired before he even arrived at the venue. "I wasn't there. All of this happened before I got there," Williams clarified, pointing out the absurdity of a personal grudge when the two comedians had never met.

As the conversation unfolded, Williams showcased a willingness to resolve any misunderstanding, emphasizing that he held no animosity toward Siddiq. The comedian extended an olive branch, suggesting that if Siddiq were willing to engage in a conversation, a resolution could be reached.

Amidst these revelations, Torrei Hart, ex-wife of comedian Kevin Hart, announced she would join Williams' The Dark Matter tour for select dates in January and February. This announcement came less than a week after Williams mocked and criticized Kevin on Shannon Sharpe's "Club Shay Shay" podcast.

Watch the entire interview below:

Weekend Roundup: Bailey's Joy, Winfrey's Clarification, Majors' Statement

The first weekend and second Monday of 2014 marked significant milestones for some of Black entertainment's most influential figures.

Newborn Joy

R&B singer and "The Little Mermaid" star Halle Bailey joyfully introduced her newborn son, Halo, to the world. Bailey shared on Instagram, "Even though we're a few days into the new year, the greatest thing that 2023 could have done for me was bring me my son."

DDG, in a YouTube video on Sunday (January 8), expressed his sentiments, saying, "I wouldn't have chosen no other person in the world to have a child with."

Clearing the Air

Oprah Winfrey addressed persistent rumors of a feud with "The Color Purple" star Taraji P. Henson, one of the actresses in the new musical adaptation produced by Winfrey. At the 2024 Golden Globes, Winfrey refuted the rumors, stating, "There's no validity to there being a thing between Taraji and I."

"Taraji will tell you herself that I've been the greatest champion of this film," Winfrey asserted on the red carpet, effectively shutting down further speculation.

Amid rumors of tensions with “The Color Purple” star Taraji P. Henson, Oprah sets the record straight with @GayleKing. pic.twitter.com/gbKeknacgK

— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) January 8, 2024

Facing the Music

Monday actor Jonathan Majors broke his silence following his recent conviction for assaulting and harassing his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. Speaking with ABC News Live on Good Morning America, Majors expressed shock at the guilty verdict, stating, "How is that possible based off the evidence, based off the prosecution's evidence, let alone our evidence?"

While maintaining he had "never hit a woman," he admitted to an unhealthy relationship with Jabbari, acknowledging he was reckless with her heart. Majors recounted the March 2023 altercation, expressing uncertainty about the cause of Jabbari's injuries.

Jabbari's attorney, Brittany Henderson, criticized Majors for his lack of accountability, stating, "His denigration of our jury system is not dissimilar from the above-the-law attitude that he has maintained throughout this legal process."

Jonathan Majors is speaking out for the first time since his conviction in a domestic violence trial in an interview with ABC News: pic.twitter.com/bYpwZ4qbfq

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) January 8, 2024

No Bad Blood: Taraji P. Henson Dispels Feud Rumors With Oprah Winfrey Amidst Viral Video Controversy

Photo Credit: Instagram/@tarajiphenson

In response to swirling rumors suggesting a possible feud, Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson have unequivocally denied any discord and have instead reiterated their mutual respect and unwavering support for each other.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by taraji p henson (@tarajiphenson)

The speculation gained momentum following a viral TikTok video capturing the duo posing for photos atop the Empire State Building during the press tour for their upcoming film, "The Color Purple," scheduled for release on December 25. Fans speculated on tension between the two, particularly noting a moment when Oprah appeared to glance at Taraji before looking away, and Taraji seemed emotional.

@openmichero #duet with @New York Mickey #oprahwinfrey ♬ original sound - New York Mickey

The video surfaced just days after Taraji candidly addressed the persistent issue of pay disparity in Hollywood for Black women, expressing her exhaustion over the ongoing struggle during an interview. Speculations arose that the rumored tension between Taraji and Oprah might be linked to these recent remarks.

During a special #THRPresents for #TheColorPurple, Taraji P. Henson got emotional while addressing pay inequity for Black women in Hollywood pic.twitter.com/IOkPsKWIw6

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) December 22, 2023

However, Taraji took to Instagram to set the record straight, sharing a photo of herself and Oprah and praising the media mogul for her unwavering support and guidance. In a lengthy message, Taraji emphasized that Oprah has been a "steady and solid beacon of light" for the entire cast of "The Color Purple."

“She has provided ENCOURAGEMENT, GUIDANCE, and UNWAVERING SUPPORT to us all,” Taraji wrote. She acknowledged Oprah's personal accessibility, stating that a single call and conversation with the decision-making Black woman made her feel heard.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Oprah (@oprah)

Oprah, in response to the rumors, also shared her sentiments about Taraji, expressing her admiration for the actress and singer. “I’ve long admired Taraji. She can make you laugh, cry, cheer, and feel everything in between," Oprah wrote. "Taraji the actress: A force. Taraji the singer? A complete revelation. What I love about her portrayal of Shug Avery is that she plays her like a woman who not only sang the blues but had lived the blues."

In her Instagram post, Taraji also addressed the broader issue of support among women of color, emphasizing the importance of unity across industries. “It is so important for black women and ALL women of color to support each other. It is also imperative to have women of color in decision-making positions across ALL industries,” she noted.

Diddy Denies Fourth Sexual Assault Claim as 50 Cent Drops Shocking Documentary Bombshell

Photo Courtesy Combs Global

Diddy finds himself under fire once again, as a fourth woman comes forward with accusations of sexual assault. The Bad Boy founder took to social media to vehemently deny the allegations, declaring, "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH" and asserting his innocence amidst what he perceives as character assassination.

pic.twitter.com/GpxzhBDWMw

— LOVE (@Diddy) December 6, 2023

The latest accuser claims to be a victim of a "gang rape" orchestrated by Diddy and others in 2003 when she was just 17 years old. The shocking revelation adds to the already complex web of legal troubles facing the music mogul, who recently settled a lawsuit filed by singer and ex-girlfriend Cassie under the New York State Adult Survivors Act.

A new lawsuit accuses hip-hop mogul Diddy of raping a 17-year-old. Here's the full complaint.https://t.co/iz7c96vlAX

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) December 6, 2023

Cassie's lawsuit, which accused him of physical and sexual abuse, was swiftly settled, with Diddy's lawyer emphasizing that the resolution should not be seen as an admission of guilt. Despite the settlement, two more accusers followed suit, alleging incidents dating back to 1991 and adding further layers to the controversy surrounding Combs.

Here's the lawsuit filed last month against Diddy and singer Aaron Hall over an alleged sex assault in 1990.

The lawyer is Tyrone Blackburn, who also represents the woman suing Nicki Minaj's husband, Kenneth Petty, related to his 1995 attempted rape conviction. pic.twitter.com/qo7FPJcbRq

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) December 6, 2023

Amidst these serious allegations, hip-hop icon 50 Cent has seized the opportunity to shed light on the unfolding drama. The rap mogul announced that his production company is working on a documentary focused on the myriad of sexual assault accusations against Diddy. In a teaser shared on Instagram, former Bad Boy Records rapper Mark Curry makes shocking claims about Diddy spiking bottles of alcohol at parties, only serving them to unsuspecting women.

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A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent)

The documentary, yet untitled, aims not only to expose the allegations but also to contribute to a cause larger than the controversy itself. 50 Cent declared that the proceeds from the documentary will go to victims of sexual assault and rape. In a statement, a representative for Curtis Jackson & G-Unit Film and TV confirmed the documentary's development, solidifying 50 Cent's commitment to supporting the victims.