Grammy Award-winning artists Patti LaBelle and Brandy Norwood will guest-star in multi-episode arcs on STAR, beginning this spring on FOX. LaBelle will play Carlotta Brown’s (Queen Latifah) tough but loving mother, Christine; and Norwood will play Carlotta’s younger sister, Cassie.
In the next all-new episode of STAR, “Faking It,” airing Wednesday, Nov. 15 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX, Ayanna (Michael Michele) must quickly do damage control to restore Midtown’s image, amidst all of the heat the label is catching from the tragic police incident. Desperate for a spot in the showcase, the girls (Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady) work on convincing hot recording artist – Joyce Sheree (guest star Teyana Taylor) – to do a featured verse on one of their songs. Carlotta continues to fight for custody of Simone; a misleading photo of Noah (Luke James) and Alex goes viral; and Cotton (Amiyah Scott) juggles two relationships. Meanwhile, Brody’s (Stephen Dorff) motivation for his return to Atlanta is revealed.
With a career that spans more than 50 years, Patti LaBelle has earned 13 Grammy Award nominations and two wins, and sold more than 50 million albums worldwide. She was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame and the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2005, she was awarded the “Legend Award” by the World Music Awards. In addition to her success as a music artist, LaBelle is a bestselling author, actress, humanitarian and entrepreneur, with a successful product line, Patti’s Good Life. Her most recent projects include the cookbook Desserts LaBelle (April 2017), jazz album Bel Hommage (May 2017) and forthcoming holiday album Patti LaBelle and Friends – Home for the Holidays (November 24, 2017).
Brandy Norwood is a multi-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress. She was one of the most successful multi-media stars of the past two decades, with a constant presence on pop and R&B charts, the hit sitcom “Moesha” and the TV movie phenomenon “Cinderella.” Her additional film and TV credits
include horror film “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer” and TV series “The Game” and “America’s Got Talent.” Norwood made her Broadway debut as “Roxie Hart” in the Tony Award-winning musical “Chicago” and recently appeared on FOX’s “My Kitchen Rules.”
STAR is a production of 20th Century Fox Television in association with Lee Daniels Entertainment. Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy are the creators and executive producers of the series. Pamela Oas Williams also serves as executive producer. Karin Gist is an executive producer and serves as showrunner of the series. “Like” STAR on Facebook at facebook.com/STARonFOX. Follow the series on Twitter @STAR and join the discussion by using #Star. See photos and videos on Instagram by following @STARonFOX.
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Review of Meiyazhagan on Netflix
Netflix’s Meiyazhagan is an evocative Indian drama that dives deep into themes of familial loyalty, personal ambition, and the cultural intricacies of rural Tamil Nadu. Directed by C. Prem Kumar, a promising filmmaker with an evident love for authentic storytelling, Meiyazhagan delivers a rich narrative that resonates with viewers on both an emotional and cultural level.
The story follows Meiyazhagan, a young man torn between his duties to his family and his aspirations to escape the confines of his small village. Set against the lush backdrop of Tamil Nadu’s countryside, the film masterfully intertwines his struggles with the region’s socio-economic challenges. The story explores timeless themes of tradition versus progress, community dynamics, and the consequences of breaking societal norms.
The cast is exceptional, with the titular role played by Karthi who captures Meiyazhagan’s internal conflict with raw vulnerability. His nuanced performance is matched by the supporting cast. The romantic subplot is tender yet grounded, providing an additional emotional layer without detracting from the main narrative.
The cinematography is a visual feast, with every frame highlighting the vibrant landscapes of Tamil Nadu. From bustling village markets to serene agricultural fields, the film immerses the audience in its setting. Traditional Tamil folk music underscores key moments, enhancing the authenticity and emotional weight of the scenes.
For international audiences, Meiyazhagan is available with subtitles and a dubbed version. While the subtitles capture the essence of the dialogue, purists will appreciate watching the film in its original Tamil language for its linguistic nuances. The dubbing is serviceable, though it loses some of the emotive depth conveyed by the actors’ voices.
Meiyazhagan is more than just a coming-of-age story; it’s a poignant reflection on the importance of cultural identity in a rapidly modernizing world. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying the harsh realities of rural life but balances this with moments of hope and humor, leaving the audience both moved and inspired.
At times, the pacing lags, particularly in the second act, where certain subplots feel unnecessarily prolonged. Additionally, while the cultural depth is commendable, some viewers unfamiliar with Tamil traditions might find themselves longing for more context.
Meiyazhagan is a heartfelt drama that offers a compelling narrative, exceptional performances, and an authentic portrayal of Tamil Nadu’s cultural richness. Despite minor pacing issues, it is a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema and those seeking stories that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian movies or a newcomer to Tamil cinema, Meiyazhagan on Netflix is a cinematic journey worth embarking on.
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Review: Arcane Season 2
The long-anticipated second season of Netflix’s Arcane continues to push the boundaries of animation and storytelling. Following the explosive events of Season 1, tensions escalate between the affluent city of Piltover and the struggling undercity of Zaun. The narrative focuses heavily on the strained relationship between Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and her volatile sister, Jinx (Ella Purnell). Their dynamic remains the emotional core of the series, with both actresses delivering compelling performances that heighten the show’s drama.
The animation remains a standout, blending 3D elements with hand-drawn aesthetics and experimenting with styles like sketch-like pencil work and chromatic watercolors during emotional or metaphysical sequences. This fusion of mediums elevates the viewing experience.The show delves into complex themes of power, vengeance, and loss. While it occasionally leans into heavy-handedness, these moments are offset by its gripping character arcs and poignant emotional beats.
Music Integration: The soundtrack plays a significant role, with original songs enhancing both action-packed and introspective scenes. While some sequences verge on being overproduced, others strike a perfect balance, deepening the narrative impact.
Season 2 is divided into three acts, with Act II providing a slower, more contemplative pace that allows for richer character development. The fast-paced action sequences are breathtaking, though they can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Arcane’s second season solidifies its position as one of the most ambitious animated series of its time. It successfully combines striking visuals, compelling storytelling, and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for both fans of the original and newcomers. While not every moment lands perfectly, the series’ bold approach to animation and narrative ensures its lasting impact.
Rating: 9/10
Sources: Empire Online, Polygon, and Forbes reviews.
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Review of Black and White Spoon on Netflix
Netflix’s Black and White Spoon is a Korean culinary competition series that seamlessly blends artistry, culture, and high-stakes drama into an unforgettable viewing experience. From its sleek production values to its deeply emotional storytelling, this show offers more than just tantalizing dishes—it serves a heartfelt exploration of culinary passion and perseverance.
The series pits contestants against each other in a dual-themed format where they must create dishes inspired by opposing concepts—light versus dark, sweet versus savory, or tradition versus innovation. This premise challenges the chefs’ creativity while providing viewers with visually stunning plates and fascinating backstories about Korean cuisine and its global influences.
The judges are a mix of culinary experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural critics, each bringing a unique perspective. Their feedback is sharp, insightful, and, at times, surprisingly emotional, further heightening the tension.
What sets Black and White Spoon apart is its emphasis on storytelling through food. Each episode dives deep into Korean culinary heritage, intertwining it with personal anecdotes from the contestants. Dishes are not merely judged on technical precision but also on the emotional resonance they evoke. For instance, a simple kimchi stew becomes a tribute to family ties, while a modern take on bibimbap showcases the fusion of tradition and innovation.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Every shot of sizzling grills, delicately plated meals, and reactions from the judges feels like an art piece. The pacing, however, can sometimes feel uneven. While the personal stories add emotional weight, they occasionally overshadow the cooking itself, leaving food enthusiasts craving more behind-the-scenes action in the kitchen.
Black and White Spoon is an inspiring and visually rich series that celebrates the art of cooking and the complexities of Korean cuisine. Its emotional depth and cultural insight make it a standout in the crowded genre of food competition shows, though slightly better pacing could elevate it further.
This is a must-watch for foodies, fans of Korean culture, and anyone who loves the blend of artistry and competition in culinary storytelling.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)