Black El Paso Voice

All Things Black in El Paso

Uncategorized

July Reviews with Ailehs Tony

by

Movie: Little Mermaid (theaters)

I am sure you are aware of all the controversy that surrounded this remake of the Little Mermaid, I am telling you to ignore, and go and witness the beauty of this film on your own. Halle Baily was excellent as Ariel. She played the part with such innocence. It takes a lot to be able to carry a movie although you don’t speak for the majority of it. I loved the new additions and some of the changes to our favorite sidekicks. I was upset when I heard that Queen Latifah didn’t get the part of Ursula but after watching Melissa McCarthy totally embrace the part, I couldn’t see anyone else as this character. She, like Halle owned this part. I fought the urge to join in on the singing. It totally took me back to when I watched the original Disney Little Mermaid.

IMO 7.5/10

https://youtu.be/kpGo2_d3oYE

——-

Movie: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Theaters)

The first installment caught me off guard with how good it was, so I went in expecting the same thing. To be blown away. I fought falling asleep possibly the first 15 minutes after that the story and action picks up and takes you on quite the journey. The animation of course was just fascinating. The chase scenes had you both laughing and anxious waiting to see if he was going to get to destination. Be prepared to be mad at the end while we have to wait for the next and final installment.

IMO 7/10

https://youtu.be/shW9i6k8cB0

——-

Movie: Transformers: Rise of the Beast (Theaters)

I was obsessed with Transformers when I was younger, tried to never miss an episode every Saturday. Seeing it on the big screen I just feel the same excitement. This installment of the Transformer is a reboot, sequel, and prequel. It is the eighth Transformers movie; it is a sequel to Bumblebee (attempted reboot) whereas it takes place in the 80’s a few years after we meet Bumblebee. Rise of the Beast reconstructs the franchise to be able to take the movies in a different direction. Anthony Ramos was great in his role and surprisingly so was Pete Davidson. I really couldn’t see or rather hear anyone else playing Mirage because Pete just nailed it. The story kept your attention; I don’t think there was a slow moment in the movie. Truly kept my attention the entire time. I am looking forward to future movies within this current trajectory.

IMO 8.5/10

https://youtu.be/itnqEauWQZM

——-

Movie: The Flash (Theaters)

There was a lot of off-screen drama pertaining to this movie mainly because of the actions of Ezra Miller. That being said I didn’t go in expecting too much because let’s be honest DC films are a hit or miss. Loved all the cameos and of course their bringing Michael Keaton back to don the suit. I feel like they underplayed him as well as Supergirl (I hope we see more of her) but the overall lesson of the movie was on point. Despite all the drama, Ezra Miller did excellently. There is no denying that they are a great actor.

IMO 6.5/10

https://youtu.be/jprhe-cWKGs

——-

Movie: The Blackening (Theaters)

This movie was so dang stupid. I could not stop laughing. You can’t go in expecting anything from this movie except for it to be dumb. It is almost similar to Scary Movie but not as wild. It drags near the beginning for about 10 minutes but after that you will be laughing. Just the interaction between the characters and them not taking themselves too seriously had me going. I am telling you don’t go see this if you are easily offended, because this movie plays on the fact that 9 out of 10 times in a horror movie black people are the first to go. But how is that possible when everyone in the movie is black. IJS.

IMO 7.5/10

https://youtu.be/ImM2EkqSFfU

——-

Movie: Elemental (Theaters)

This was a cute movie, not going to be one of Pixars biggest hits but it was enjoyable to watch. We’ve seen the story before, but it is just shown in a different manor which there is nothing wrong with that. The opposite attracts, following your dreams, sticking to your own path, story line, stepping out of your comfort zone.

IMO 7/10

https://youtu.be/rd4HFwP_KoA

 

Movie: Extraction 2 (Netflix)

The first Extraction just blew me away with the way the action sequence was filmed. I was overly excited waiting for part 2 to come out and it did not disappoint. It picks up where the first one ended and Rake is back in action doing what he does best except this time he has a team supporting him in the field. If you like action, you are going to enjoy this. I think one of the action sequences lasted over 20 minutes. It was just non-stop. Even though I personally like the first one a lot more it doesn’t take away from the fact that this one was good as well.

IMO 8/10

https://youtu.be/mO0OuR26IZM

——-

Series: Black Mirror (Netflix)

The 6th season is finally back. We are used to futuristic, technological episodes that make you think. This season went a different route. It kind of shadows how society is at the moment. How we are obsessed with true crime, reality tv, judging things we don’t understand, and knowing what to believe and not believe. I personally enjoyed this season although it went a totally different route and I am looking forward to future seasons.

IMO 8.5/10

https://youtu.be/5jY1ecibLYo

Flamin’ Hot: A Soul-Stirring Journey

by

Synopsis:
FLAMIN’ HOT is the inspiring true story of Richard Montañez (Jesse Garcia), who, as a Frito Lay janitor, disrupted the food industry by channeling his Mexican American heritage to turn Flamin’ Hot Cheetos from a snack into an iconic global pop culture phenomenon.

Streaming exclusively on Hulu and Disney+ beginning June 9

Director: Eva Longoria

Directed by the talented Eva Longoria in her directorial debut, Flamin’ Hot emerges as a remarkable work of art that artfully weaves together a tapestry of emotions and experiences, reminding us of five invaluable aspects of life that we should never forget:

  1. Family is indeed important
  2. Children are the most joyous part of life.
  3. Never give up.
  4. Life is all about choices.
  5. The power of unification.

First and foremost, the film beautifully emphasizes the importance of family. Through its portrayal of family life and the inherent struggles within, Flamin’ Hot strikes a relatable chord, inviting audiences to
reflect on their experiences. It skillfully underscores the significance of familial bonds, showcasing how even during the loneliest moments, the support and love of one’s family can uplift and rejuvenate the spirit.

Additionally, the movie fearlessly tackles the theme of racism, offering an unflinchingly honest depiction of children’s challenges. This film kept the racism children experience ‘real’ and simultaneously highlighted parents’ crucial role in guiding their children through such adversity. Flamin’ Hot is a poignant reminder of the power of endurance, urging individuals to rise above the hurtful words and derogatory labels that society may impose. It reaffirms that every generation possesses unique strengths and contributions, inspiring audiences to take ownership of their life’s path and tirelessly strive for personal growth.

Moreover, the film portrays a profound friendship between the main character and a black foreman, illuminating the transformative power of genuine human connection. The sincere camaraderie shared between them transcends racial barriers, as they embrace each other as brothers and father figures.

Rather than succumbing to judgment, both protagonists seek to understand and empathize with one another’s plight, paving the way for a captivating exploration of unity and compassion. “Brother” was how the main character addressed the foreman. And the main character viewed him as a friend, a brother, and a father figure. Instead of seeking to judge, both sought to understand the plight of the other.

From start to finish, Flamin’ Hot is an absolute cinematic marvel. Its ability to evoke a myriad of emotions is unparalleled, leaving audiences moved to their core.

With its soul-stirring narrative and heartrending performances, it establishes itself as a must-see masterpiece that resonates long after the credits roll.

It was an absolutely wonderful movie; on a scale of 1 to 10, it was a soul-stirring, heart-moving 10.

Tina Smiley, Associate Editor for Black El Paso Voice, highly recommends Flamin’ Hot as a transformative cinematic experience that offers profound insights into the intricacies of life.

Prepare to be enthralled, enlightened, and ultimately moved by this remarkable piece of storytelling.

Black History Month Events

by

Black History Month Message from McCall Center President Gregg D. Davis

Dear El Paso,

February is Black History Month! The rich heritage of Black history represents a collective American history.

“Black History month has never been just a celebration of Black America’s achievements and stories—it’s part of a deliberate political strategy to recognized as equal citizens”—

Dr. Theodore R. Johnson

The McCall Neighborhood Center shares the experience of all African Americans in remembering the past so we can create a better future.  It’s a reminder of where we have been so that we know where we need to go.  We remain focused on a society in which all people live with dignity and purpose, and to fulfill their aspirations.  Therefore, we pause to realize the efforts of our past heroes, ancestors, and beloved “Pioneers” and realize that each day we stand on their broad shoulders as we endeavor to make our own mark in history.

Peace & Blessings!

Gregg D. Davis, President

Board of Directors

El Paso Community College: Black History Month Events

by

EPCC Diversity and Inclusion and the BHM Committee would like to invite you to their Black History Month events.
For more information visit:  https://www.epcc.edu/Services/Diversity
The D&I team and BHM committee members were happy to receive the El Paso County Resolution and City Proclamation honoring Black History Month in February. #EPCCpride #epcdiversity #BlackHistoryMonth #blackelpasovoice #elpasotexas #ElPasoCommunityCollege

President Joe Biden to visit El Paso Sunday

by

by Robert Moore, El Paso Matters
January 5, 2023

President Joe Biden will visit El Paso on Sunday, his first visit to the U.S.-Mexico border since taking office in 2021.

Few details of the visit have been released, but White House officials said the president will “address border enforcement operations and meet with local officials,” Politico reported.

Biden’s trip was announced Thursday just before his administration announced additional measures to try to slow the influx of migrants crossing into El Paso and other border communities.

Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, has invited Biden to come to El Paso since before he took office. She said his visit Sunday is timely and important.

“El Paso has been the epicenter of this humanitarian crisis. We are feeling the effects of decades of failed and outdated immigration policy,” Escobar said.

“I am proud to have President Biden join us at our nation's front door to witness firsthand the depth of what we are facing and the tremendous collaboration and goodwill of El Pasoans as we continue to ask our Republican colleagues to work with us on true solutions,” she said.

Biden will stop in El Paso on his way to a meeting in Mexico City with the leaders of Mexico and Canada.

This article first appeared on El Paso Matters and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

MLK El Paso Statement on Shootings in Buffalo, NY

by

The shooting of thirteen innocent individuals last Saturday in Buffalo, New York, is another example of the seemingly endless violence committed against people of color in our country daily.  A volatile combination of assault weapon accessibility, misguided ideologies of hate, domestic terrorism, and tactics of white genocide adopted by an eighteen-year-old resulted in the deaths of ten Blacks and three wounded.  The teenager accused of killing Blacks in the Buffalo supermarket massacre posted a rambling white supremacist manifesto that spewed a racist philosophy and outlined step-by-step plans to exterminate Blacks in the U.S.

On behalf of the El Paso MLK Committee, we offer our sincere condolences to the families of the victims of this horrific tragedy. We pray that God will strengthen, encourage, and uplift you during this extremely difficult time. 

As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stated, “Hate begets hate; violence begets violence; toughness begets a greater toughness.”  We pray the El Paso Community will continue to align itself with local law enforcement agencies, faith-based groups, school administrators, school districts, parents, organizations, and entrepreneurs to eradicate the threat of violence.

Humbly submitted,

Bishop Albert J. Mays, Jr., MA. ED, ED (c), D.D.

President

MLK Committee

Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

by

You are invited to attend the 2023 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. This year’s special guest speaker is Dr. Michael Williams, Director of the UTEP African American Studies Program.

The celebration takes place Sunday, January 15th beginning at 3PM. The location is Praise Temple Church, 6230 Dyer St. El Paso, Texas.

Follow for updates on social media.

Facebook

Instagram