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Scooby-Doo has been a major part of television history, and with the production of the animated adventure comedy film Scoob! it will continue its legacy. While the beloved Mystery Incorporated gang has audiences from the past, the new Scoob! has a few surprises that will draw in the next generation of Scooby lovers.
Let’s introduce the latest addition to the Blue Falcon team. Dee Dee Skyes is voiced by Kiersey Clemons, who is a fantastic addition for this reimagining film along with Blue Falcon (Mark Wahlberg) and Dynomutt (Ken Jeong). Together this trio delivers a performance that will have everyone in your whole family giggling like little kids.
It is a well-known fact that the Scooby-Doo franchise has made a huge contribution to our culture, and Clemons has come to add another layer to the already rich tapestry. In a phone interview with BGN, she articulated in no uncertain terms her love for this character and her role. “I really love how she [Dee Dee Skyes] handles Blue Falcon,” Clemons says, “how she has a sense of self, her sense of humor, and she doesn’t let their differences stand in the way of her getting their job done.”
The concept of friendship, bravery, and heart are at the core of this film. With any new group of friends, there is always an adjustment period early on for everyone to find their groove with one another. With the already established Mystery, Inc. team, the friendships seemed unsinkable and could withstand any weather. Yet, no friendship to date can withstand criticism from the infamous Simon Cowell. With Cowell’s unprecedented scathing remarks unleashed onto the mystery gang, our favorite protagonists soon find themselves on an amazing adventure that intersects with the Blue Falcon and Dee Dee. With the arrival of the Blue Falcon trio, Shaggy and Scooby’s close friendship will be tested.
Scoob! brilliantly examines what it means to be a hero and explores it through friendships and gadgetry. While some characters struggle with their heroic identity, other characters, like Dee Dee, are sure of themselves and are ready to save the day when needed. Clemons discussed her idea about the message behind the film. “It’s about teamwork. Everyone has their differences, and they use their strengths to complement one another. They come together to quite literally save the day. While some have bravery, others have gadgetry, and yet still, some have heart. They all join together for an unbelievable task.”
One question that is on everyone’s mind is, why this production? Clemons’s answer was as clever and sweet as all her other responses. “It’s Scooby-Doo, dude! There will never be a time where I say no to Scooby-Doo. It’s a part of my childhood, it’s a part of my dad’s childhood, my little brother is watching Scooby-Doo still. I am very thankful for this!” I couldn’t agree more! Who doesn’t love Scooby? He is the puppy we grew up with, and my personal favorite!
As our conversation continued, it naturally came to the topic of who would love this character. Clemons answered with precision and style as she told me who she believes the Dee Dee character is for. “I’m going to say this character is for all the little Black girls at home in isolation. I think that sometimes as an actor I need to know that my representation is being validated. With animation, it’s not me in the flesh. Getting to see that first sketch of Dee Dee and her hair, her body, and her skin color, if I see this and I think, Oh yes!—if that makes me feel good—then I know representation is working. If I feel I’m being represented, then all the little Black girls everywhere will also feel it.”
Clemons works hard every day to make you laugh. She understands that the world is not always a safe place, and there is much uncertainty going on, yet the one thing she hopes that audiences will take away from her performance is humor. She expressed her passion for making the world laugh. “I hope that they laugh. I would love to be responsible for making someone laugh. I have days during isolation where I find it hard to smile and laugh. I hope Dee Dee can help people find their laughter during this time.”
The best part of interviewing Clemons is that she has a wonderful sense of humor. In between questions, she would be giggling or making a joke that would make me laugh. When asked how she differs from her character, her response was classic. “Well, the way in which we are different is that she can pilot a submarine/plane very well, and I am barely a good driver.” When you speak to Clemons on the phone, you just know you are in for a good time. She has a great personality that just radiates through the phone, so I know her performance will leave you wanting more. Watch out Hollywood, here comes Kiersey Clemons!
The Scooby-Doo franchise legacy continues with their newest film, Scoob! Time to grab a few snacks, turn on the television, and lets all watch Kiersey Clemons as she makes us all laugh with her talents. Scoob! is just what we all need during these times of isolation and social distancing. Thanks to Warner Bros, this animated comedy adventure is just at your figure tips. So, get the family, sit back, and enjoy this performance on the small screen.
The post The Woman Behind the Voice: Kiersey Clemons Hopes That Black Girls Everywhere Will Laugh appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Scooby-Doo has been a major part of television history, and with the production of the animated adventure comedy film Scoob! it will continue its legacy. While the beloved Mystery Incorporated gang has audiences from the past, the new Scoob! has a few surprises that will draw in the next generation of Scooby lovers.
Let’s introduce the latest addition to the Blue Falcon team. Dee Dee Skyes is voiced by Kiersey Clemons, who is a fantastic addition for this reimagining film along with Blue Falcon (Mark Wahlberg) and Dynomutt (Ken Jeong). Together this trio delivers a performance that will have everyone in your whole family giggling like little kids.
It is a well-known fact that the Scooby-Doo franchise has made a huge contribution to our culture, and Clemons has come to add another layer to the already rich tapestry. In a phone interview with BGN, she articulated in no uncertain terms her love for this character and her role. “I really love how she [Dee Dee Skyes] handles Blue Falcon,” Clemons says, “how she has a sense of self, her sense of humor, and she doesn’t let their differences stand in the way of her getting their job done.”
The concept of friendship, bravery, and heart are at the core of this film. With any new group of friends, there is always an adjustment period early on for everyone to find their groove with one another. With the already established Mystery, Inc. team, the friendships seemed unsinkable and could withstand any weather. Yet, no friendship to date can withstand criticism from the infamous Simon Cowell. With Cowell’s unprecedented scathing remarks unleashed onto the mystery gang, our favorite protagonists soon find themselves on an amazing adventure that intersects with the Blue Falcon and Dee Dee. With the arrival of the Blue Falcon trio, Shaggy and Scooby’s close friendship will be tested.
Scoob! brilliantly examines what it means to be a hero and explores it through friendships and gadgetry. While some characters struggle with their heroic identity, other characters, like Dee Dee, are sure of themselves and are ready to save the day when needed. Clemons discussed her idea about the message behind the film. “It’s about teamwork. Everyone has their differences, and they use their strengths to complement one another. They come together to quite literally save the day. While some have bravery, others have gadgetry, and yet still, some have heart. They all join together for an unbelievable task.”
One question that is on everyone’s mind is, why this production? Clemons’s answer was as clever and sweet as all her other responses. “It’s Scooby-Doo, dude! There will never be a time where I say no to Scooby-Doo. It’s a part of my childhood, it’s a part of my dad’s childhood, my little brother is watching Scooby-Doo still. I am very thankful for this!” I couldn’t agree more! Who doesn’t love Scooby? He is the puppy we grew up with, and my personal favorite!
As our conversation continued, it naturally came to the topic of who would love this character. Clemons answered with precision and style as she told me who she believes the Dee Dee character is for. “I’m going to say this character is for all the little Black girls at home in isolation. I think that sometimes as an actor I need to know that my representation is being validated. With animation, it’s not me in the flesh. Getting to see that first sketch of Dee Dee and her hair, her body, and her skin color, if I see this and I think, Oh yes!—if that makes me feel good—then I know representation is working. If I feel I’m being represented, then all the little Black girls everywhere will also feel it.”
Clemons works hard every day to make you laugh. She understands that the world is not always a safe place, and there is much uncertainty going on, yet the one thing she hopes that audiences will take away from her performance is humor. She expressed her passion for making the world laugh. “I hope that they laugh. I would love to be responsible for making someone laugh. I have days during isolation where I find it hard to smile and laugh. I hope Dee Dee can help people find their laughter during this time.”
The best part of interviewing Clemons is that she has a wonderful sense of humor. In between questions, she would be giggling or making a joke that would make me laugh. When asked how she differs from her character, her response was classic. “Well, the way in which we are different is that she can pilot a submarine/plane very well, and I am barely a good driver.” When you speak to Clemons on the phone, you just know you are in for a good time. She has a great personality that just radiates through the phone, so I know her performance will leave you wanting more. Watch out Hollywood, here comes Kiersey Clemons!
The Scooby-Doo franchise legacy continues with their newest film, Scoob! Time to grab a few snacks, turn on the television, and lets all watch Kiersey Clemons as she makes us all laugh with her talents. Scoob! is just what we all need during these times of isolation and social distancing. Thanks to Warner Bros, this animated comedy adventure is just at your figure tips. So, get the family, sit back, and enjoy this performance on the small screen.
The post The Woman Behind the Voice: Kiersey Clemons Hopes That Black Girls Everywhere Will Laugh appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
What better time to watch the remarkable She-Ra and the Princesses of Power series than now?
There is no denying how big of an influence the show has had on our culture. The series re-boot has taken from the original and transformed it into an amazing, colorful, and action-packed series that will have you adding this to your must-watch list. Now, with its final season being released May 15th, audiences are preparing to say goodbye to this transformative show.
If you are not already hooked, it’s not too late to see what makes this show so magical. Read my review on She-Ra for an in-depth understanding about the show. This May, I had the pleasure of calling both Noelle Stevenson and Aimee Carrero on the phone about their experiences in being a part of a phenomenal show. The acting, story narratives, and sense of community is truly what is at the heart of this series. The show’s Emmy-nominated cast has been a breath of fresh air for viewers who are just getting into the series. Showrunner Stevenson and She-Ra voice actor Carrero have talent that makes you want to know every aspect of their process.
Tic-tok! Time is running out to experience with fellow audiences what makes this show so amazing. But don’t worry, the ticking time bomb will explode and leave us with a final season that promises, in Stevenson’s own words, “to wrap up the story.” Season 4 left us in awe as we eagerly await the fate of Etheria and the princesses. In the fifth and final season, we will learn what Stevenson’s gift for writing has in store for audiences.
When you speak to both Stevenson and Carrero, they make you feel like your questions are the best ones they have ever heard, make you ask yourself why you are not more famous for your skills, and make you wonder why you’re not interviewing them more often. With their high energy, and enthusiasm for their craft, it is hard not to appreciate their talents.
The dulcet and energetic Carrero (who I will always associate her as the spunky sidekick, Sofia Rodriguez in Young and Hungry) shines in her role as the titular character She-Ra/Adora. While I think she has the voice range to play any role, it would not be the same if she was not the princess we have grown to love. Carrero wants you to believe she is She-Ra, and she is doing just that.
Carrero has this talent for making Adora/She-Ra feel like she is the best friend you go to when you are uncertain about a task at hand. During our phone call, she expressed to me the message behind She-Ra: “People might not believe in you or even think you are worth it, but She-Ra represents that part of us that can accomplish anything. She tells us that we are worth it, no matter what anyone has to say about it.” When she tells you that you are your own She-Ra, you want to believe her.
Stevenson is an expert storyteller, so when she talks about how to create characters, narrative arcs, and plots, I find myself nodding along, like she is teaching a master class. She has a way of speaking to that allows you to feel you can accomplish anything you wanted.
When I spoke to Stevenson on the phone about why she felt this was the right time to reboot the She-Ra series, she said, “A female lead story is important right now, and this is what we need to see. It’s not about brute force and strength, it’s about coming together and building communities. She-Ra represents that as a hero. She is uncomfortable with the idea of being a hero, but understands she needs to be the hero people need her to be.”
Both Carrero and Stevenson were in agreement as to who this show’s target audience is. While it is generally understood that it is for everyone, it will especially speak to those who are struggling with their identities. The main character is a hero but doesn’t know what it means to be one. She is trying to figure it out. But she is also making a lot of mistakes along the way. This speaks to anyone who is uncertain about their identity, their purpose, or even the choices they make. Many queer individuals struggle to understand themselves. It speaks volumes to have a principal character who also struggles with her identity and her place in life.
This show has a large backing from the gay community and with good reason. Stevenson said, “In a world that is 70% women, it’s only natural that you would see some lesbian relationships.” This is so remarkable that characters can be gay/lesbian/queer and it is seen as normal and as healthy as any other relationship.
She-Ra and the Princesses of Power are just a few heroes for many little girls out there who want to see themselves reflected in the media. While I am not a little girl, this character means a lot to my inner gay boy who loves She-Ra. It was a pleasure having the opportunity to interview both Noelle Stevenson and Aimee Carrero about such a fantastic series. As the final season is edging ever closer to its final days, we should not forget to say our goodbyes to a cultural phenomenon. Thank you for representing queer characters as normal and as loving as any other character.
The post Interview with Noelle Stevenson and Aimee Carrero: The Truth about ‘She-Ra and The Princesses of Power’ appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
The pandemic and resulting stay at home orders have without question changed our lives. And everyone is finding different ways to cope. Some of us are working out every day and getting fit. Some of us are reading all those unread books that have been gathering dust on the nightstand. And some of us haven’t put on pants in at least five weeks.
To pass the time, we’ve been playing along with Twitter’s personality memes, i.e. what house we would live in, which celebrities we’d want to quarantine with, and what Avengers we identify as.
Now, Katie Henry has given us our new favorite means of self identification, thanks to some medieval marginalia:
Tag yourselves, because who better to understand us than a bunch of bored dudes holed up in their monasteries? pic.twitter.com/aw2jsdbKhZ
— Katie Henry (@KT_NRE) May 14, 2020
Marginalia is the fancy word for all the symbols and illustrations in the margins of medieval manuscripts. They are painstakingly detailed and often refer to whatever the text discusses, but sometimes they are simply the doodles of whoever was bored and possessed the manuscript. And sometimes, these miniature illustrations are next level bonkers:
Johanna Green, Lecturer in Book History and Digital Humanities at the University of Glasgow (and the purveyor of the above Instagram account), describes the marginalia by saying, “Manuscripts can be seen as time capsules, … And marginalia provide layers of information as to the various human hands that have shaped their form and content.” She continued, “Both tell us huge amounts about a book’s history and the people who have contributed to it, from creation to the present day.”
But it’s surprisingly easy to find ourselves among these bizarre and sometimes gross little doodles. After all, social distancing makes us feel like we’re living on the margins of our own lives. And like the marginalia, we find ourselves perturbed, beset with demons, and in various states of undress.
Which medieval marginalia do you find yourself identifying with?
(image: Katie Henry/Twitter)
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