MOVIES and SHows

Sinners rocked the box office with $176 Million in domestic sales and $236 million globally. I saw it 3 times.

The first time at IMAX in Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia. My chair was too close and it cost me a headache. I underestimated how big the IMAX screen is.
The second viewing, Alamo Drafthouse in Woodbridge, late show. This time sitting too far back and next to patrons that would not stop talking.
The final and best viewing, “The Big Show” at the Alamo Drafthouse in Woodbridge. I had the perfect seats in the center of the theater with my Dad.

The film caused some major discussions. The two biggest social disruptions came from:

Bias headlines undermining the success of the movie per BLEX media

When Sinners opened with $61 million globally in its first weekend, some trades immediately questioned its profitability. One headline from Variety read:

“Sinners has amassed $61 million in its global debut. It’s a great result for an original, R-rated horror film, yet the Warner Bros. release has a $90 million price tag before global marketing expenses, so profitability remains a ways away…”

That didn’t sit right with anyone.

Ben Stiller quote-tweeted:

“In what universe does a $60 million opening for an original studio movie warrant this headline?”

2. Sinners made some Christians uncomfortable according to Religious News amongst other things, hoodoo practices and the devil depicted in the film cause some to say they will never watch the film.

For those who did watch the film it was agreed “The most breathtaking scene, Sammie’s music melts the barrier between past, present and future as he conjures spirits of ancestors and descendants. African griots weave through the crowd, as do yet-to-be-born breakdancers and DJs. For the enraptured residents of Clarksdale, Mississippi, where the movie is based in 1932.” - Religious News

Social media was also on fire for months covering the conflicts, the celebration of the sales and the artistry. The magic was revealed in several behind the scenes pieces.

Michael B. Jordan was praised for his roles as Smoke and Stack because he leaned into the characters so deeply he made us believe it was two different people.

The universal take away:

Be careful who you let into your house

Skits regarding the scenes of inviting vampires in your house were hilarious, however, the lesson was very serious. One invite to the wrong person can destroy your family legacy and your community. I personally loved the film, 10/10 for me.

Watching Forever is personal. I covers all the irrational emotions that come crashing in when you fall in love for the first time. Its relatable on so many levels. The lovers share different economic backgrounds and have parents with different parenting styles. The dad was my favorite character and the soundtrack is awesome.

TarAji P Henson Event in Maryland

May 3rd, 2025

Sign at the entrance of Oxon Hill Highschool

I was excited about this event because it fell on Hair Therapy’s anniversary. I planned to arrive early branded and see as much as possible. On the day of the event I could not find my new Hair Therapy T-shirt and I was so dishufled and upset I decided I wasn’t going. After cooling down, fear if missing out started kicking in. I arrived late to The Can We Talk? Youth Mental Health Symposium the Dj was breaking down!

The symposium brought students and families together for creative wellness activities and a powerful fireside chat with Taraji P. Henson, Michael Rainey Jr., and Jay Barnett on mental health and community healing.

Although I missed the main event I was able to participate in one of the free services they offered. I received a 20 minute chair massage and swag bag with a journal, calming spray that I love, a T-shirt and some other items.

The next event held by the Boris Lawrence Henson foundation is October 10-12th at the National Harbor. This event is a celebration of World Mental Health Day. It is for adults and tickets are required.

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NEW CARNEGIE Diner & CAFE in Vienna

There is a new diner in Vienna. The New York theme made me smile. The dessert counter is filled with cheesecake is the New York way. I have been to visit twice. Once with the my brunch book club and I returned to take my Dad for Father’s Day.

Vegan event in Maryland

It was a small but cute event. Hosted by the Alpha’s near Hampton, VA. The most exciting moment for me was bumping into these festive Guyanese women. The woman on the left is the queen of fitness @IntenseFiyaaaaaFitness Candace Alexander.

I enjoyed rasta pasta from Desmond’s Grill pop up. I also tried and African dish called akara that reminded me of a spicy version of my childhood favorite, Pholourie.

We visited Outlook Beach nearby. It was a relaxing way to finish off a Sunday and prepare for the long ride home.

ARTSCAPE FESTIVAL

Artscape is a festival that has been around since the 80’s and I am just discovering it. Had lots of fun singing Fantasia songs to the top of my lungs. WHEN I SEE YOU! WHEN I SEE YOU!!!