Their Eyes Were Watching TV

Guess who's bizzack! It's ya girls :) Have we been gone for far too long? Yes. Did we record this episode while the Olympics were still on? ...that's none of your business. But all that matters is we are so back! And since we've missed y'all so much, we wanted to review a movie that has been widely loved by critics and audiences alike- "Tyler Perry's Divorce in the Black." In this *cinematic masterpiece*, Ava and Dallas are in a tumultuous marriage which abruptly comes to an end when the already-checked out Dallas announces he wants a divorce. Though the divorce was his idea, Dallas is also somehow FURIOUS about it(???) and makes Ava's life a living hell, along with the lives of all of her loved ones. While marketed as a Thriller/Drama, "Divorce in the Black" just might be the funniest movie of 2024. "Divorce in the Black" is available to stream on Amazon Prime.  

This week we're discussing the holiday film "The Blackening!" (...we didn't say *which* holiday.) The story centers around a group of college friends that reunites for a fun weekend of drinking, sh!t talking, and playing spades in a secluded cabin in the woods. What's supposed to be a fun few days of catching up, however, turns into their worst nightmare once they find a seemingly racist board game in the basement that forces them to play...for their lives.   *Hosts' Note: We obviously recorded this a bit ago, so whenever you hear "Halloween," just replace it with "Christmas" :)   "The Blackening" is available to stream on Starz.

It's spooky season, friends! And this week we're discussing the 1992 cult classic “Death Becomes Her.” In a zombie-ish film like no other, the only thing these undead want to eat are lewks, hunny! DBH not only tackled serious issues (such as: ageism, gender double standards, and the unrealistic beauty expectations that women are expected to live up to) with humor, it was also a pioneer in computer-generated special graphics, winning the 1993 Oscar for Best Visual Effects! "Death Becomes Her" is available to stream on Peacock.

This week we're discussing the comedic sci-fi film "They Cloned Tyrone." John Boyega stars as Fontaine, a drug dealer whose life is turned upside down when he finds that his entire existence is being controlled by unknown, sinister forces. Alongside brilliant sex worker Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris), and a clever pimp named Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx), Fontaine uncovers the truth and begins a revolution that activates his entire community, the Glen, to fight back. But who exactly is Tyrone...? CW: Mention of police brutality in the film. Mention of child exploitation during "What You Got Your Eyes On?" section (Brooke Shields' "Pretty Baby" documentary).  "They Cloned Tyrone" is available to stream on Netflix. 

This week we're discussing the candy coated write-off, I mean- Todd Tucker film "The Pass." If you're a RHOA fan, you will recognize a number of familiar faces, including Todd's wife, Kandi Burruss, as well as Shamea Morton and Monyetta Shaw. And one Ms. Drew Sidora steps in as main character, Nina. Nina and her husband decide to give each other a hall pass- one night off from their marriage to engage in physical intimacy with a person of their choosing... Sure. What could go wrong, right?? After a number of wild twists and turns, distrust builds and the future of their marriage seems shaky, at best.  Forewarning: We could not stop giggling this entire episode lol. "The Pass" is available to stream on Peacock.

Hi, Barbie! This week we're discussing the box office smash, "Barbie." The Greta Gerwig film pulls the iconic doll out of her idyllic Barbieland and drops her (and Ken) into our less-than-perfect real world. Finding that things here are very much opposite from Barbieland, Ken becomes entranced by patriarchy...and horses, and tries to change their world to more closely reflect ours. The Barbies, with help from a few humans, must work quickly to ensure their rights aren't taken away... Sound familiar? "Barbie" is currently playing in theaters.

This week we're discussing the season finale of the new Bravo hit, "Summer House: Martha's Vineyard." This spin-off of the original "Summer House" features a group of Black friends and acquaintances from all over the country, who reunite on the picturesque Massachusetts island for three weeks of fun, shenanigans and, of course, drama! The friend group centers around newlyweds Jasmine and Silas Cooper, who are...let's just say they're going through it. SHMV's inaugural season proved to be an entertaining one, with unexpected conflicts, house meetings, cast member ejections and even canine guests.  "Summer House: Martha's Vineyard" aired on Bravo and the full first season is available to stream on Peacock. 

This week we're discussing the Disney film "The Little Mermaid." The angelic-voiced Halle Bailey stars as Ariel in this live-action remake. The new version follows the 1989 animated classic pretty closely, with a few modern updates and song changes. It does not, however, follow the original Hans Christian Andersen story which, we have learned, is probably for the best...  *We have a brief discussion on mermaid folklore and sea exploration, which was recorded before the Titanic submersible incident* "The Little Mermaid" is currently playing in theaters.

This week we're discussing the historical fiction series, based in fact, "Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story." Young Charlotte leaves her native Germany for England after, unbeknownst to her, her hand in marriage was promised to King George III. Once she arrives, the king's mother has two concerns: first, making sure the new couple consummates their marriage and produces an heir; second, figuring out why Charlotte's melanin is poppin' so severely! After a few, um... road blocks, Charlotte and George begin a love affair that lasts decades and produces 15 children.  We also get into some fun historical facts about the real Queen Charlotte and King George, and where Charlotte's African ancestry actually came from. "Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story" is available to stream on Netflix. 

This week we're discussing the live* season 4 finale of “Love Is Blind.” Asterisk for “live” because…Netflix had us waiting over an hour (or 12+ hours for some folks) to watch it -_- Kwame and Chelsea tried to make us believe they were truly in love. Bliss…if you like it (Zach), we love it. And Netflix, give us a Tiffany and Brett spin-off! ”Love Is Blind” is available to stream on Netflix. 

This week we're discussing the season finale of the fungi-zombie hit show, "The Last of Us." Main characters Joel and Ellie have traveled cross-country by car, foot and horse, to try and help save humanity. After facing a number of enemies, both infected and otherwise, and nearly losing their lives (and each other) multiple times, they finally reach their goal... but it's not the celebratory moment either expected.  The full first season of "The Last of Us" is available to stream on HBOMax.

This week we're venturing into the Marvel Cinematic Universe to discuss "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." The sequel finds Wakanda in a bit of disarray following the death of King T'Challa and an unexpected visit from new aquatic frenemy, Namor. While much of the film is action-packed, and a fun and exciting display of girl power(!), some of the plot points left us with questions...especially that scene during the credits. But overall, the film is a beautiful tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman and a wonderful addition to the MCU. "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" is currently playing in theaters.

Ya girls got fancy and decided to have a night out at the theatre! We saw the critically acclaimed stage play "New Jack City" (and by "critically acclaimed," we mean - Ice T, costar of the original film, claimed to enjoy it). This live version of the classic 1991 film featured many a 90s star, including Treach, Gary Dourdan, Flex Alexander, Big Daddy Kane, and Allen Payne, who reprised his role as Gee Money. Claudette Ortiz from City High was also a pleasant surprise in the cast! If you got money to burn and are feeling nostalgic, "New Jack City" is still touring across the US and quite possibly, coming to a city near you! And if you're feeling nostalgic but wanna save $65-200 bucks, the movie is streaming on Tubi for free :) 

Getting this out a little late because...LIFE. But this week we're discussing part three of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" reunion. The ladies had already discussed a number of issues, including the bullying of Garcelle's teen son (get Diana TF outta here!), accusations of Erika leaking stories to the press, and chic wind chimes, but when big Kathy (Hilton) took the stage, baybeeeee. Got the girls, namely Lisa Rinna, right together! Mama did not come to play, and we are still waiting for your lie detector results, Lisa. So raise your glass, or fist if you're Kyle, to the end of another hella entertaining RHOBH season. "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" airs on Bravo.

Happy Halloween, kids! This week we're discussing our favorite pop culture spooky season moments; from movies to trivia to...Lauryn Hill soundtrack features? Ok, we got off topic with that last one but we also talk about our own personal favorite Halloween moments and costumes. Hope you all have a fun and safe Halloween!

This week we're discussing the beautiful family drama, "Queen Sugar." In episode 5 of this final season, entitled "With A Kind Of," members of the Bordelon family deal with past experiences coming back to haunt them [unfairly]: A cheating spouse; incarceration due to youthful mistakes; and a life-changing assault made public by a family member who had previously been trusted. The Bordelons have been through so much over the last seven seasons but through the immense growth and maturity these characters have shown, these things that may have broken them in the past will NOT take them under this time. Can I get an amen, somebody?! ...No? Ok, cool.  We also try to wrap our mind around NFTs because like...girl, what? TW: Mention of sexual assault and rape within the show (not actually shown on screen).  "Queen Sugar" airs Tuesday nights on OWN.

Dooooon't f%ck with her, fellas! This ain't Lou's first time at the rodeo. This week we're discussing the action-thriller "Lou." Lou is a grouchy loner who pretty much keeps to herself but when her neighbor Hannah's daughter is kidnapped and she turns to Lou for help, Lou steps up and surprises everyone with her...very particular set of skills. During their efforts to get Hannah's daughter back, we learn more about their personal connections, and see how far a mother will go for the people (or things) she cares about. "Lou" is available to stream on Netflix. 

Hallelu, saints! This week we're discussing the mockumentary "Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul." which centers around a megachurch pastor and first lady who are attempting to rebuild their congregation following a major scandal. The film humorously highlights the moral hypocrisy and spectacle attached to megachurches, as well as the all too common trend of preachers NOT practicing what they preach. While quite funny, HFJSYS is also a layered film that takes the viewer on an unexpected emotional ride. "Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul." is currently playing in theaters and streaming on Peacock. 

This week we're discussing Jordan Peele's third film, "Nope." This sci-fi horror centers on the Haywood family, who has been raising and training horses for Hollywood productions going back generations. Jobs have slowed but...freaky UFO activity around their ranch has picked alllll the way up. But instead of just saying "nope" and moving like the title might imply (and my a$$ woulda done), siblings OJ and Emerald Haywood decide to try and find a way to outsmart the UFO and cement their family's legacy once and for all.    "Nope" is currently playing in theaters.

Trying something a bit different with this episode! Instead of just focusing on one show or movie, we get into a buncha things we're watching. Now...we recorded this in late May, so excuse the topics being a bit dated, but we'd still love your feedback on if you want more episodes like this! We've had a busy few weeks but will be back with a new episode next week!

This week we're discussing Issa Rae's new show “Rap Sh!t,” which centers around two estranged high school friends in Miami who reconnect and form a rap group. After a few drinks, they go on Instagram Live and freestyle the catchy bop “Seduce & Scheme,” which immediately goes viral. Though they have very different views on women in hip hop and what it takes to make it, their desires to rise above their current circumstances fuel them to make the partnership work. Their central story mirrors Miami duo, City Girls, and pays homage to the rap goddesses who have come up in the age of social media. Also… Kam has evidently been watching a lot of “Top Boy” :-| "Rap Sh!t" airs Thursday nights on HBOMax.    

This week we're discussing pop culture phenomenon "90 Day Fiancé." As with other seasons, the current couples are struggling with the stress and time constraints of the 90 day K-1 visa, and trying to figure out if they will make it to the altar before time is up. But unlike other seasons, the vast majority of this cast is...annoying. "90 Day Fiancé" airs Sundays at 8/7c on TLC.

This week we're discussing the hit show "P-Valley." The Dirty Dozen Tour has started and we see Keyshawn (aka M-I crooked letta, crooked letta...) and Lil Murda adjusting to tour life and new found fame. Mercedes agrees to be Coach's kept woman to hold on to her gym and surprisingly finds a possible friend and ally in his wife. Uncle Clifford pops that p*ssy at the Pynk to show the girls she's not new to this, she's true to this! And new girl Roulette breaks Uncle Clifford Rule #4: "You ho, you out da do'." Will Roulette get fired on her day off for tricking? Will Big L become the biggest gotdamn drug dealer in Chucalissa?? Scared money don't make money, so we shall see... Lastly, we bid adieu to the brilliant, heartwarming show that kept Kleenex in business, "This Is Us." We will miss you, Pearson family

This week we're doing it for the SAINTS!!! We're discussing the highly anticipated Lifetime film “Wrath: A Seven Deadly Sins Story,” produced by TD Jakes and Shaun Robinson (yes, THAT Shaun Robinson from the 90 day fiancé multiverse!). A cautionary tale with Christian overtones, Chastity is a lawyer on the fast track to making partner to resolve her daddy issues, when she unexpectedly meets a handsome stranger in a hotel(?) bar. He sweeps her up in a whirlwind romance that quickly sours, and makes her question her faith, principles, and life choices.    “Wrath: A Seven Deadly Sins Story” aired on Lifetime April 16, 2022.

This week we're discussing Jerrod Carmichael's moving new stand-up special, "Rothaniel." In the special, which feels almost equal part group therapy session as it does comedy show, Jerrod shares family secrets and personal secrets with earnest vulnerability, and invites audience participation in a way we haven't seen before. He also touches on being named after his grandfathers, who both happened to be cheaters; to which we must ask- did ANY of us have a non-cheating grandpa?! (Seriously, let us know if you did.) "Rothaniel" is available to stream on HBOMax.

This week we're discussing the horror-ish film, "Master." Regina Hall stars as college professor Gail Bishop, who becomes the first Black master at her elite ivy league university. She builds a bond with incoming Black freshman, Jasmine Moore, as they both begin facing racism of the [possibly] supernatural variety. But WHO...is targeting them?? "Master" is available to stream on Amazon Prime.

The 94th annual Oscars ceremony took place Sunday night and...it was pretty boring. We really had to scrape for content because the show was so anticlimactic.  Clearly kidding. So many firsts- from CODA winning best picture to Megan Thee Stallion's performance. Hilarious commentary and skits from this year's hosts, Wanda Sykes, Regina Hall and Amy Schumer. And, of course, what is sure to be one of the most talked about moments in Oscar history.   Also, s/o to Questlove for winning Best Original Documentary for "Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)." Forgot to mention this during the episode but gotta give him his flowers!

Yeah, maybe...don't bring back my girls? This week we're discussing the lackluster Snatch Game episode of "RuPaul's Drag Race." Usually one of the most anticipated episodes each season, the season 14 queens just didn't have quite enough Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent, this time around. It's normal to have an off day but...it seems like all of theirs synced up somehow.  "RuPaul's Drag Race" airs Fridays at 8pm on VH1.

This week we're discussing the current season of "Married at First Sight" set in Boston. 5 couples decided to tie the knot with a complete stranger and less than 3 weeks into the 8 week experiment, one couple has already decided to call it quits. With a few cute moments and a LOT of communication issues, MAFS Boston brings the same marital drama we've come to know and love from the series.  "Married at First Sight" airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on Lifetime.

This week, we're discussing the popular Netflix documentary "The Tinder Swindler." The doc tells the story of Simon Leviev (real name: Shimon Hayut), who lied about being the son of a diamond tycoon and embellished his lavish lifestyle online to attract women. Not only was Simon juggling multiple women relationship-wise, he was also juggling their finances to finance his own life. By love bombing these ladies for a few months to get them invested in the relationship, he was then able to begin asking them for financial help. And we're not talking a few hundred bucks, we are talking hundreds of thousands in some cases! ...The girls were down bad. But through the help of journalists, and some detective work of their own, a few of Simons exes are finally able to bring him down. "The Tinder Swindler" is available to stream on Netflix. 

...did we use jawn right? :-|  This week, we're discussing the first three episodes of "Bel-Air," the new dramatic re-telling of iconic 90s sitcom "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." All of our favorite characters are back but...can't say the same for all of their personalities. As in the original, Will is trying to navigate his new California life after leaving Philly because of a fight but unlike the original, new Will is faced with many obstacles and foes, including some from his own bloodline.  "Bel-Air" is available to stream on Peacock. 

Claws Up, y'all! Join us as we discuss the series finale of the TNT dramedy, "Claws." Nail salon owner, Desna Simms, and her crew of delinquent manicurist besties have have been consistently upping the ante on their illegal activities over the past three seasons. But this final go round - with a schism in the group, a risky new side hustle, new "friends," and an unexpected romance that isn't quite what it seems - they find themselves in a situation that may bring them down for good. 

This week we're discussing the new hit comedy "Abbott Elementary!" After a new student comes from a private school where he participated in their gifted program, Janine is inspired to start one at Abbott. These are young minds that need to be expanded, right?! But...what about all those other young minds who will miss out on these new experiences? Through a bit of trial, error, and personal insight from Gregory, Janine and her colleagues come up with a solution that will benefit all of their students!  "Abbott Elementary" airs Tuesday nights at 9/8c on ABC and is available to stream on Hulu.

And just like that, we're... well... discussing "And Just Like That..." In the most recent episode, "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered," the ladies encounter big life changes and have to figure out how to navigate through new feelings. Carrie reflects on how fleeting youth is and seeks coolness validation from her new, young, hip neighbor. Charlotte grapples with her daughter Lily becoming a young woman and no longer being her little girl. And Miranda considers ending her marriage after finding herself deeply in love with Che. Do they end up making all the right decisions?? Nope. Not at all. Not even close. Quite the opposite actually. "And Just Like That..." is available to stream on HBOMax. TW: Brief mention of rape during discussion of the film "The Last Duel."  

Happy New Year, y'all! We're starting off 2022 with the season premiere of "Euphoria." In this episode, we're reunited with all of our faves (and foes) from Euphoria High and finally get a deeper look into Fezco's life and upbringing. Rue and Jules reunite for the first time since their train station breakup and we witness, quite possibly, the most stressful bathroom scene since Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho." (We recorded this episode via Zoom, so apologies if sound gets weird in a few spots.) CW: Drug Use, Sexual Situations "Euphoria" airs Sunday nights at 9pm on HBO and HBO Max.

"Uh-uh...Denita, it's Christmas!" "And ho ho ho." Welcome to our Holiday Extravagaaaaanza! On this episode, we're discussing all things Christmas- from our favorite movies and songs, to classic holiday sitcom episodes. And even play a couple holiday-themed games! Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and safe holiday season!! And we'll see you in the new year :) 

**Big spoiler warning for this episode, so please watch "Bruised" first before listening if you don't like spoilers!** **Also including a trigger warning for mentions of child abuse, domestic abuse, rape and sexual assault, that happens, or is referenced, in the film.** This week we're doing a deep dive into Halle Berry's directorial debut, "Bruised." We discuss the all women soundtrack, the superb acting chops of a 5 year old who is basically silent the entire film, our likes and dislikes about the film, and like 1 or 2 or...11 plot holes we noticed while watching. We share our ratings of the film and give the legendary Ms. Berry her flowers for directing, acting and doing her own stunts at 55 years young! "Bruised" is now streaming on Netflix.

This week we discussed the S3 "90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way" Tell All. The couples we loved, or at least loved to hate, sat down with host Shaun Robinson to discuss all of their ups and downs, and where they're at today. This season left us with so many unanswered questions! Will Sumit's parents ever accept his relationship with Jenny? Have Kenny and Armando decided to adopt? Why does everyone is Corey's family enjoy an extra strong collar? Is Steven still talking to other women behind Alina's back? Well...y'all can probably figure out that last one.  All shows in the 90 Day Multiverse air on TLC, typically on Sunday nights at 8pm.

"It's like I just single-handedly annihilated, you know, every housewife in the building..." This week we discuss part 4 of the RHOP Reunion, where Potomac super fan, Nicki Minaj, surprises the ladies and carries Andyconda's water by asking *unreasonably shady* questions he'd never be able to get away with! Nicki even revisits her "American Idol" days by asking Candi Girl to sing live...sans autotune. Brrrratatatat, indeed.

This week we're doing a deep dive into the historical fiction film "The Harder They Fall." With a star-studded cast including Idris Elba, Jonathan Majors and Regina King, THTF is an updated take on the classic Western (with a fire soundtrack!). In a world with a never-ending cycle of people seeking revenge, can anyone ever truly know peace...? "The Harder They Fall" is now streaming on Netflix. 

This week we're discussing the most recent episode of OWN's "Ready To Love." Filmed in DC, season 4 has brought us plot twists, red flags galore, and possibly the world's most short-lived love triangle. You get to meet Corey's parents! You get to meet Corey's parents! We ALL get to meet Corey's parents!  "Ready To Love" comes on Friday nights at 8/7c on OWN. 

This week we're discussing the latest episode of "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City"... which was apparently sponsored by Fresh Wolf Men's Products. Along with the Fresh Wolf launch party, we dive into Lisa's shadiness, the origin of Mary's need to always be right, Heather's obsession with being a "good time girl," and the TRUTH about what happens when you eat raw fish. 

For our first episode, we discuss the LAST season premiere of "Insecure!" Issa and friends revisit their college campus and while getting wrapped up in nostalgia, find power in who they used to be. Mal and Kam discuss the episode and reflect on what they would tell their college selves. 

Coming Soon! Cohosts Mal & Kam have been working hard on perfecting this podcast and look forward to sharing it with you! After graduating from The University of North Carolina, the two friends bonded over a love for TV, movies and all things pop culture. But don‘t expect the two to just parrot each other‘s comments on the show; while they may like a lot of the same shows and movies, their viewpoints are often as varied and numerous as Forrest Gump‘s box of chocolates.