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https://blackgirlnerds.com/team-behind-wondla-season-2-expanding-the-universe-and-the-heart/
When The Search for WondLa leapt from the page to screen in its first season, it brought with it a sci-fi universe unlike any other — lush, weird, and deeply emotional. Now, with Season 2 around the corner, BGN sat down with the powerhouse team bringing Eva’s journey into bold new territory.
We caught up with Jeanine Mason (voice of Eva Nine), Gary Anthony Williams (Rovender Kitt), Bobs Gannaway (Showrunner and Executive Producer), and Tony DiTerlizzi (Author and Executive Producer) for a wide-ranging conversation on world-building, character growth, and why this season feels more personal than ever.
Interviewer: Alyssa Threadgill
Video Editor: Jamie Broadnax
WondLa is now streaming on Apple TV+
The post Team Behind ‘WondLa’ Season 2: Expanding the Universe and the Heart appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
After seven years and four seasons of You, it’s time for the story of deceptively charming serial killer Joe Goldberg to conclude. For the psychological thriller’s fifth and final season, executive producer Sera Gamble (Supernatural), who co-created the series with Greg Berlanti (The Flash), passed showrunning duties to longtime You writers Michael Foley (How to Get Away with Murder) and Justin W. Lo (Grosse Pointe Garden Society).
Season 5 explores You’s core themes — love, obsession, violence, abandonment, privilege, privacy, and toxic relationships — with a deep dive into remorse, regret, and being haunted by past mistakes. While I would’ve loved to see a few more familiar characters and callbacks, these ten episodes had me laughing, gasping, crying, and laughing some more.
Warning: Spoilers for Seasons 1–4
In You’s Season 4 two-parter, Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) traded in the California suburbs of Madre Linda for the streets of London, England. He becomes a professor of American literature at Darcy College, going by his new identity, Jonathan Moore. He meets another professor, Malcolm (Stephen Hagan), who introduces him to his group of wealthy friends. From the start, Malcolm’s sort of girlfriend Kate Glavin (Charlotte Ritchie) is suspicious of Joe/Jonathan’s arrival. She isn’t like his other love interests (or victims) we’ve seen; she’s cold, blunt, and rightfully wary of his intentions, though he wins her over in the end.
The end of Season 3 showed Joe trying to track down Marienne Bellamy (Tati Gabrielle) in Paris, which led him to a London art fair. She reacts appropriately, running at the sight of him. His way of proving he’s not a bad man is to let her go. We don’t see her again until Part 2, when we learn Joe put her in a new glass cage, all while in a dissociative state. It’s revealed that his antagonistic partner in crime, politician Rhys Montrose (Ed Speleers), was all in his head, and he’s never met the real Rhys.
In a dream sequence, Joe has to face Guinevere Beck (Elizabeth Lail) and Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti), who force him to confront the truth about himself — that he’s a delusional abuser and killer of women, not their chivalrous white knight. He attempts to kill himself by jumping off a bridge, but ultimately survives, thanks to the thick plot armor. He tells Kate a small fraction of his actual body count, leaving out that he also killed her controlling father, Tom Lockwood (Greg Kinnear). She accepts him, helps him frame his curious student Nadia (Amy-Leigh Hickman), and spins a “second chance at life” story that paints Joe as a victim. We end on an ominous note; even though he and Kate promised to “keep each other good,” Joe now fully accepts himself as a killer.
For a more in-depth recap, check out Penn Badgley’s hilarious video.
Season 5 picks up three years later with Joe and Kate as a power couple. She’s now CEO of the Lockwood Corporation, while he’s sort of just there at her side. The public calls him Prince Charming, a perfect husband who holds his wife’s purse and vaguely helps her with philanthropic efforts. Kate also helped Joe get Henry (Frankie DeMaio), now a 6-year-old precocious book lover, back from his Madre Linda dads, Dante (Ben Mehl) and Lansing (Noel Arthur).
Joe married into a wealthy family before, but the Lockwoods aren’t the same as the Quinns. They’re vicious manipulators with endless money, resources, and influence. Kate’s half-sister Raegan (Anna Camp) resents her for being their father’s favorite and taking over as CEO. Camp gives a fantastic dual performance as the ruthless Raegan and her bubbly twin Maddie, two characters with very different agendas, personalities, and emotions. Kate’s only blood-related confidant is half-brother Teddy Lockwood (Griffin Matthews), who was only welcomed into the family when Kate became CEO. He likes Joe, and Joe (surprisingly) likes him; they both have a rags-to-riches trajectory and still feel like outsiders in this family.
Kate and Joe’s relationship is seemingly stable. He hasn’t killed anyone since they left London, but when an opportunity, or more like a threat, presents itself, he tries to find a work-murder balance. Kate grew up watching her dad “handle” his enemies in violent ways, and now that her husband is starting to do the same, she’s conflicted.
Like most anti-hero stories, we’re rooting against the voice of logic and reason because we want to see the protagonist do awful things. When Kate tries to condemn Joe’s killer tendencies, the knee-jerk reaction is to roll our eyes and scoff at her moral superiority, even though she’s right. She’s like Love in that she calls Joe out on his hypocrisy and isn’t afraid to go head-to-head despite knowing what he’s capable of. She loves deeply and protects her friends and family, even the ones she hates. She doesn’t think of murder as a solution.
Joe keeps himself busy restoring Mooney’s, which he bought with Lockwood money. He hires one employee named Bronte (Madeline Brewer), a young, spirited playwright who broke into the bookstore. She’s an endearing character, described by Joe as “frustrating and utterly captivating all at once.” Bronte regularly speaks in abbreviations and internet slang, which might turn some viewers off. However, she’s self-aware that she’s a mess, and we know Joe can’t resist a literary-loving woman with a complicated life. Brewer has already seen some backlash and expects more, telling Vanity Fair, “People aren’t going to like Bronte for one reason or another. They’ll love to hate her — or hate to love her.”
The return to New York in Season 5 is a nostalgic and fitting setting for Joe’s final chapter. It’s interesting to see him try to be the new him and the old him at the same time. He appreciates his headstrong, kindhearted wife and how she made it possible for him to come home and have his own name again. However, as soon as Kate starts to judge his actions, he goes back to his usual “no one will ever accept the real me” mindset. Delusional as ever, Joe begins to fixate on Bronte, someone he assumes would be more open to dating a man who’d kill for her because she likes dark romance fiction.
Each season, Joe has had to adapt to a new environment, while we adapt to the shifts in tone and cinematography. The jump from Season 1’s warm and dreamy New York to bright, sunny Los Angeles in Season 2 was a bit jarring, but quickly proved to be a fun change of scenery. Season 3 maintained some of the LA brightness in Madre Linda, though muted. I definitely miss the Agatha Christie atmosphere of Season 4’s dark academia London setting. Season 5 sort of blends these different styles with a little of Season 1’s glow, Season 2’s liveliness, Season 3’s colorful claustrophobia, and the darkness of Season 4.
You comes to an end with a dramatic, suspenseful, darkly funny, and emotionally riveting fifth and final season. There’s a lot of pressure to stick the landing, and it’s hard to say how audiences will feel about the overall season, which has quite a few subplots and loose ends. However, the powerful performances, especially from Badgley, elevate the storylines. How much fans enjoy the mostly satisfying finale depends on their idea of justice, whether they actually want Joe to suffer the consequences, and who they want to see bring him down.
You Season 5 premieres April 24, 2025, on Netflix.
The post Review: Joe Goldberg Comes Full Circle in the Riveting Fifth and Final Season of ‘You’ appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Not too long ago, on the very heels of a new Hunger Games book announcement, we also received new of a new Hunger Games movie, and this time it’s all about Haymitch Abernathy. Suzanne Collins announced that she was releasing a new Hunger Games book, Sunrise on the Reaping, that would focus on the Second Quarter Quell, the Hunger Games that were won by a young Haymitch Abernathy. And, unsurprisingly, Lionsgate followed up that announcement by announcing Sunrise on the Reaping will become our newest Hunger Games movie. Now Sunrise on the Reaping, the book, is out in the world, and we have new information about the movie, too, a new logo and a writer.
Check it all out below.
A New Hunger Games Movie Is on the Way
Lionsgate shared, “Lionsgate will return to the world of Panem with the major motion picture adaptation of the next book in the franchise, Suzanne Collins’s highly anticipated Hunger Games novel Sunrise on the Reaping, it was announced today by Adam Fogelson, chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.”
Additionally, Nina Jacobson, alongside her producing partner Brad Simpson, will return to produce The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. A release notes that “Francis Lawrence is in talks to direct the film; Lawrence has helmed four previous films in the Hunger Games franchise – every film since Catching Fire.”
Most recently, screenwriter Billy Ray was named the writer for Sunrise on the Reaping. Ray co-wrote the original The Hunger Games movie and get ready for it that iconic Nicole Kidman AMC ad. Amazing.
Sunrise on the Reaping Cast
The first two major cast members have closed deals to star in Sunrise on the Reaping. Deadline reports relative newcomer Joseph Zada will portray Haymitch in the movie. Opposite him, as Haymitch’s girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird, will be Hocus Pocus 2‘s Whitney Peak.
Other indicate that Elle Fanning is in talks to play a younger Effie Trinket. This well-known The Hunger Games character was first played by Elizabeth Banks in the first four movies.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping‘s Synopsis and Haymitch Focus
A plot synopsis for the new Hunger Games movie shares of the Sunrise on the Reaping film:
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will revisit the world of Panem twenty-four years before the events of The Hunger Games, starting on the morning of the reaping of the Fiftieth Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.
Of course, as mentioned, this setting means we’ll get the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy in the new Hunger Games movie.
When Will the New Hunger Games Movie Sunrise on the Reaping Release?
The new Hunger Games movie even has a release date. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will release in theaters in North America beginning on November 20, 2026.
Originally published in 2024.
The post New HUNGER GAMES Movie Casts Young Haymitch appeared first on Nerdist.
On the heels of New York Fashion Week, it seems fitting to highlight Black-owned footwear fashion. BLACK ENTERPRISE curated 10 standout Black-owned footwear brands that shine with creativity and innovation. The footwear designers behind these brands are redefining the fashion landscape and proving that support of Black-owned businesses is essential to Black style and culture and to the economy and existence. Their bold designs and powerful messages continue to inspire, making an undeniable impact on the world of fashion.
Aminah Abdul Jillil
Aminah Abdul Jillil founded her luxury shoe brand in 2012, serving as its creative director. Renowned for its bold designs and signature oversized bows, the brand prioritizes quality and artistry. The high-end shoe brand caters to women and children and is available in over 50 countries, and has a partnership with Macy’s. Each design reflects Aminah’s background in dance, blending elegance with dynamic, statement-making silhouettes.
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Brother Vellies
Creative director Aurora James founded Brother Vellies in 2013, introducing a footwear aesthetic that marries traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary luxury. The footwear company is mindful of preserving African design traditions while gaining global recognition. The brand offers a range of handcrafted shoe wear that includes boots, flats, heels, sandals, and mules, all made with high-quality materials. At a time when climate change is a concern, Brother Vellies has leaned into sustainability and ethical production when it comes to manufacturing its products.
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KAHMUNE
Kahmune has set a new standard in the footwear industry, celebrating diversity while delivering premium craftsmanship. Jamela Acheampong founded Kahmune in 2016 to reimagine the concept of “nude” in fashion after struggling to find shoes that matched her skin tone. The brand features handcrafted shoes in 10 unique shades of melanin that ensures inclusivity for buyers who are a diverse range of skin tones. The shoes are crafted in Italy, combining high-quality materials with timeless, sophisticated designs.
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Jessica Rich
Jessica Rich launched her self-titled brand in 2018. Rich created a sexy, chic, and stylish line of footwear for confident women. The collection can be bought at retailers nationwide and has led to a collaboration with Steve Madden. Rich gained industry recognition after winning the Footwear News Emerging Designer of the Year award, solidifying her emergence in the fashion industry.
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(@jessicarichofficial)SIA Collection
Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, a bold, trendsetting footwear brand was introduced with a signature style that blends East and West Coast flavor. Devlin Carter founded SIA Collective bringing an innovative sneaker with dope heel designs. The footwear brand disrupts traditional shoe aesthetics with fresh, eye-catching styles. Each sneaker incorporates an element that makes SIA stand out and is a reflection of Carter’s personal journey. SIA Collective has a loyal following thanks to its creative and boundary-pushing approach. Distinctive designs are available for both men and women.
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Sunni Sunni
Sunni Dixon taught himself the art of footwear design and crafted a fusion of class and street style, founding Sunni Sunni in 2020. The brand is inspired by Black culture and D.C.’s Chocolate City era. Sunni Sunni designs embody a bold aesthetic that challenges traditional fashion. The brand specializes in unisex boots and shoes. Sunni Sunni has carved out a distinct space in the footwear industry, redefining modern elegance with a cultural edge.
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Armando Cabral
Armando Cabral, a model turned designer, launched his footwear brand in 2009, debuting a collection that emphasized quality design. Specializing in leather shoes, the brand is known for its thoughtful construction and attention to detail. Drawing inspiration from African heritage, Armando Cabral’s designs merge cultural elements with luxury, positioning the brand as a high-end name in footwear. Armando Cabral shoes are elegant and timeless pieces that are contenders in the luxury fashion footwear industry.
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Kendall Miles Designs
Kendall Miles founded her luxury footwear brand in 2015. The shoe line is handcrafted and made from premium materials like leather and fur. The footwear specializes in a variety of styles, including flats, boots, sandals, and pumps, all known for high quality and attention to detail. As a Black-owned business, Kendall Miles combines sophistication with exceptional artisan skills and establishes a strong presence in the luxury footwear market.
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Bydose
This luxury footwear brand, created for women by women, launched in 2019 by Diana Dube. Bydose is known for its sleek, minimalist design and offers elegant and fashionable footwear with a focus on simplicity and sophistication. Bydose combines premium craftsmanship with a modern, refined aesthetic. The brand has quickly gained attention for its timeless appeal and high-end, stylish shoes.
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Joanne Vernay
Joanne Vernay is entirely vegan, using biodegradable fabrics in place of leather or polyurethane making it a brand that is eco-friendly in its design. The collection was created by shoe designer Dyandra Raye in 2018, and offers luxury design along with a focus on sustainability. The designs draw inspiration from fruits and vegetables. The high-end style and environmental awareness sets the brand apart in the luxury footwear market.
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