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It’s 3 a.m. in China, but Saweetie is wide awake. Fresh off a club performance in Shanghai, the rap star is still glammed up and glowing from the love she received from fans earlier in the night. “The intensity in that room of just love and support was just so overwhelming. Those types of crowds, it doesn’t even feel like I’m working,” she tells Rolling Stone. “It just feels like I’m rapping with my friends and family because that’s how strong the love is in the room.

A unique action-comedy starring Pedro Pascal is scheduled to hit the HBO Max streaming service in August. The film offers another opportunity for audiences to see the popular actor, who has had a busy and successful year with several major film roles. This upcoming streaming release allows fans to see him in a distinctive project from the comfort of their homes.

The movie is an anthology film, weaving together multiple stories with a blend of action and humor. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Oakland, the film features a large cast of colorful characters. Despite a quiet theatrical run, the movie has earned high praise from the audiences who have seen it, building its status as an under-the-radar favorite. The interconnected tales and period setting create a unique viewing experience.

The film making its way to streaming is “Freaky Tales.” It will be available to stream on HBO Max starting Friday,...

Don’t Tap the Glass is Tyler, the Creator’s second album in less than a year and, at only 28 minutes, notably less robust than its predecessor, Chromakopia. But all the elements of his work are here: the swaggy boasts, the effortless shifts from deep-voiced rapping to winsome, slightly off-key singing that makes a listener wonder if a second person has entered the booth; and beats that shape-shift like a kid rifling through a toy box. It’s the latest manifestation of a boundless creative impulse that has helped him...

“Freaky Tales”, the new live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, streaming August 8, 2025 on HBO Max:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

Pedro Pascal is emerging as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, in addition to being one of the most prolific actors alive. Pascal is having an incredible 2025, which started with him reprising his role as the surrogate father figure Joel Miller in HBO's The Last of Us season 2, earning a second Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

This summer, he's starred in two A24 movies – Celine Song's romantic comedy Materialists and Ari Aster's neo-Western Eddington, and will also make his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut as Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, releasing in theaters on July 25. However, Pascal has another movie that was released in theaters this year, but flew under the radar, and is now making its way onto streaming.

Freaky Tales Lands A Streaming Release Date Pedro Pascal's Period Action Comedy Boasts An 89% Rt Audience Score

Freaky Tales has landed a streaming release date.

“Freaky Tales”, the new live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, now available to rent/own on digital platforms, followed by a 4K/Blu-ray release June 3, 2025:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

Welcome to the Gold Ticket, your VIP guide to the best of award-worthy pop culture for the weekend ahead, curated by the Gold Derby team of experts. (April 25 - April 27)

The main stream

It's time to get (back) to that galaxy far, far away.

This week, Andor, the Rogue One prequel created by Tony Gilroy, returns for its highly anticipated second season, more than two years after the show's acclaimed debut. Unfortunately, it is also the show's final season, as the 2023 Emmy nominee for Best Drama Series is quickly hurtling toward the climactic events of Rogue One, and thus also the events of A New Hope. Diego Luna returns as rebel spy Cassian Andor in the new season, which centers on a planet unlucky enough to house mineral deposits the Empire needs.

The 12-episode season covers several years as it unspools its story over four weeks, in three-episode chunks. This...

“Freaky Tales” is a live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, starring Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, available to rent/own on digital platforms April 25, 2025, followed by a 4K/Blu-ray release June 3, 2025:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

The Rock The Bells festival is back, and this time they’re hitting New Jersey. The LL Cool J-owned classic rap showcase announced their June 28 Class of 2025 event at Newark’s Prudential Center, with performances from Busta Rhymes, Redman, Eric B. & Rakim, Remy Ma, Too $hort, Scarface, Plies, Boosie, Fabolous, Lil’ Mo, and others. Roxanne Shante will host the event, while Kid Capri will be the show’s official DJ. Presale tickets are available from April 23 to 25, when general public tickets go on sale.

Along with individual sets, Rock The...

For his latest video review, Kevin sits down to give his thoughts on another of his picks of the big-budget / low-budget / no-budget movie landscape… Freaky Tales. Giving you his personal opinion on why you should or shouldn’t give this movie your time.

Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colourful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.

Executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort, and featuring an all-star ensemble including Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks, Freaky Tales is a pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humour, gory kills, and sly twists and turns… making for one wild ride.

Freaky Tales is in select UK cinemas from 18th April and on digital platforms from 28th April.

On Wednesday April 16 2025, ABC broadcasts GMA3: What You Need to Know!

Season 4 Episode 405 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “GMA3: What You Need to Know” promises an exciting lineup. Airing on ABC, this episode features a mix of entertainment, health tips, and practical advice for everyday life.

Hip hop artist Too $hort will make a special appearance. Known for his influential music career, he will likely share insights about his journey and current projects. Fans of his music can expect an engaging conversation that highlights his contributions to the hip hop scene.

In another segment, Lori Bergamotto will present “Lori’s Laboratory.” This part of the show will focus on egg alternatives, a topic that is increasingly relevant for those looking for healthier or plant-based options. Lori will explore different products and offer advice on how to incorporate these alternatives into daily meals.

The episode will also feature...

Wednesday’s “GMA3: What You Need to Know” on ABC has a little something for everyone: music, food, and, of course, deals! Tune in at 1:00 Pm Et to catch the diverse lineup. Hip-hop legend Too $hort joins the show to talk about his latest musical ventures and his new movie “Freaky Tales.” It’s a chance […]

GMA3: Too $hort, Lori Bergamotto...

From its pulpy title, to its retro-computerised intro with Giorgio Moroder-style synths, to its opening voiceover (“Oakland in ’87 was hella wild”), it’s clear within seconds that Freaky Tales aims for culty midnight-movie status. On that front it largely succeeds, boasting a scrappy energy, outsider outlook, and local focus that feels like a sharp pivot from the slick universe-expansion of writer-directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s previous film, MCU behemoth Captain Marvel. As an anthology of stories inflected with supernatural flourishes — and occasional bursts of ultra-violence — the film’s title proves apt: here lie four freaky tales, no more, no less.

As per most anthologies, some stories are better than others. The opening chapter — in which two loved-up punks lead a fightback against a local gang of Nazi skinheads — is a blast, with rebellious use of scrawly animation that invades the screen. The fourth and final tale — in...

A warped love letter to the Bay Area’s raw energy and rebel spirit, Freaky Tales arrives in select UK cinemas from 18 April before hitting digital platforms on 28 April. Directed and written by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the filmmaking duo behind Half Nelson and Captain Marvel, the new feature throws a Molotov cocktail of styles into a vibrant, blood-splattered mixtape of mayhem.

Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales delivers four interlocking stories, each one pulsing to its own beat but building towards a shared crescendo. The film moves between an underground rap duo trying to break out, a disgraced cop skimming the surface of violence, a grieving teen punk bent on revenge, and an NBA star caught in a moral quagmire. It’s a world in flux, where fantasy bleeds into reality, and battles play out on the graffitied backstreets of a city cracking at the seams.

Bringing this volatile...

“Freaky Tales” is a live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, starring Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, opening April 4, 2025 in theaters:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Scott Thompson for Wbgr-fm on April 3rd, 2025, reviewing the new film “Freaky Tales,” four stories interconnected and set in 1987 Oakland, California. In theaters beginning April 4th.

The first story is “Strength in Numbers” as a notorious punk club … represented through two teen fans (Ji-young Yoo and Angus Cloud) ,,, battle neo-Nazis, based on a true story. “Don’t Fight the Feeling” has two female rappers (Dominque Thorne and Normani) squaring off against real-life Oakland rap legend Too $hort. “Born to Mack” has Pedro Pascal as a retiring leg breaker for a corrupt cop (Ben Mendelson) and “The Legend of Sleepy Floyd” features the real-life NBA phenom (portrayed by Jay Ellis) in that title role, seeking revenge. They are all affected by a greenish glow in the air, which may contain powerful properties

”Freaky Tales” is in theaters on April 4th.

As the big Spring break period approaches its conclusion, there’s still just enough time left for a quick trip via the multiplex. The destination’s not an exotic locale far from our shores, nor the pixel-generated backdrops of this weekend’s big studio flick. This movie “getaway” all takes place on the sunny streets of Oakland, CA. And, more importantly, this is a “time trip” since the “stories” are set in the long-ago Reagan era of 1987. Yes, I said “stories’ as this is an anthology of “twisted” fables with characters dropped in and out of different segments, so it differs from the Tales From The Crypt or New York Stories template, though there’s an off-screen narrator (unlike the Cryptkeeper). So, get your hair teased out, unplug the Walkman, lace up the Reeboks, and set the “Wayback machine” 38 years in reverse to take in some truly Freaky Tales.

Speaking of that narrator,...

Note: This review was originally published as part of our 2024 Sundance Film Festival coverage. Freaky Tales opens in theaters on April 4 from Lionsgate.

Before the early-morning Sundance premiere of Freaky Tales, one of the festival’s programmers introduced the movie as an explosive, crazy ride that would surely wake an under-caffeinated audience. That same sentiment was shared moments later in the opening frames, promising that Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s Oakland-based 1980s mosaic would be a “hella wild” ride. Like the common trope of freeze-frame narration that begins in media res, it’s a bold choice to tell––instead of show––your audience what they’re about to get into.

And what do you get into with Freaky Tales? Unfortunately, something clever, self-satisfied, and much sleepier than its predetermined adrenaline rush. Its filmmakers made their first splash at Sundance with Half Nelson in 2006, eventually compounding their indie success through...

Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck are back on the big screen with Freaky Tales, their biggest swing yet.

The longtime creative partners haven’t released a film since Captain Marvel grossed a cool $1.1 billion in 2019. The duo then went on to helm four episodes of the Cate Blanchett-led FX miniseries, Mrs. America, after promoting their MCU installment’s spring release that year. And by the time the political drama premiered in April 2020, Boden and Fleck were stuck inside like the rest of the global population, providing them with the bandwidth necessary to finally develop Fleck’s long-gestating passion project about his memories as an 11-year-old Oaklander in 1987. The film isn’t as semi-autobiographical as Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans or James Gray’s Armageddon Time, but it’s equally personal for Fleck.

The title of Freaky Tales is based on the “Freaky Tales” song by celebrated Oakland rapper, Too $hort,...

Filmmaking duo Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck have kept busy since their 2019 foray into the world of big-budget Hollywood franchise filmmaking with their Brie Larson-starring MCU entry “Captain Marvel,” mostly turning their attention to the small screen, with directing gigs on “Mrs. America” and “Masters of the Air.” But for their first film back post-Marvel, they wanted to get a bit more personal.

How personal? Their raucous, wild “Freaky Tales” — which includes four interconnected stories, all set in Oakland in 1987 — is the result of not just years of dreaming, but entire decades. Oakland native Fleck has been wanting to make a film called “Freaky Tales” since he was a kid, a dream he drafted his long-time filmmaking partner into, oh, about 20 years ago.

The result is a multi-pronged anthology that serves as a love letter to a very specific time and place,as Boden and Fleck’s script weaves...

"Oakland was hella freaky." That's the tagline of Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck's California-hazy thriller Freaky Tales, a social-savvy anthology about 1987 Oakland—with a supernatural bent. The film loves to throw around the word "freaky," whether rap battles or wraparound narrations, but the film's problem is the overpromise of genre elements. Boden and Fleck tackle racism, Nazis, predatory law enforcement, and a host of other injustices throughout for stories connected by neon-green thunderbolts in the sky, but it's an exhaustingly flat marathon of inconsequentiality. Stories are desperately linear while genre elements make no sense in context, like a haphazard take on Tromaville that's somehow less sensical.

Freaky Tales is a story of punk rockers defending their concert venue, ice cream scoopers who dabble as verbal assassins, a debt collector pulled back into the business (Pedro Pascal), and NBA All-Star Sleepy Floyd (played by Jay Ellis). They're overlapping stories with interconnection spread like a web,...

Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s Freaky Tales is an ode to 1987 Oakland rife with references to (and cameos by) various music and sports icons of the city’s underdog era. The film illustrates the eclecticism of Oakland via an anthology of four stories connected by little more than characters from each segment briefly occupying the same spaces as the narrative baton is handed off between teen punks, wannabe rappers, a thumb-breaking debt collector trying to go straight, and Golden State Warriors player Sleepy Floyd (Jay Ellis).

Nakedly wearing its cinematic influences on its sleeve, Freaky Tales suggests Pulp Fiction by way of Repo Man. In the first segment, “Strength in Numbers,” a trio of teenage punksters, high off of seeing The Lost Boys at the Grand Lake Theatre, go to the iconic all-ages music venue Gilman Street, where they catch a set from the punk band Operation Ivy. Throughout,...

The new poster for Freaky Tales designed by Tom Ralston reminds you to always bet on the underdog.

A pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humor, gory kills, and sly twists, the genre-bending anthology hits theaters on April 4 from Lionsgate.

Executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort, the film is written and directed by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck.

Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.

The ensemble cast includes Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks.

Meagan Navarro wrote in her review out of Sundance, “There’s a bombastic charm to Freaky Tales that captures the essence of ‘80s action and genre cinema in a way that few manage.

“Freaky Tales” is a live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, starring Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, opening April 4, 2025 in theaters:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

Pedro Pascal and Jay Ellis are stepping out for the premiere of their new movie!

The two actors posed for photos on the black carpet at the premiere of Freaky Tales on Wednesday evening (March 19) in Oakland, Calif.

Fellow cast members at the premiere included Ben Mendelsohn, Jack Champion, Keir Gilchrist, Too $hort, Ji-young Yoo, Dominique Thorne, and Sleepy Floyd.

Writers and directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck were also in attendance.

Here’s the synopsis: “Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.”

Freaky Tales hits on April 4. Watch the trailer here!

Click through the gallery inside for 25+ pictures of the cast at the premiere…...

Lionsgate has released a new poster for Freaky Tales designed by artist Oliver Barrett.

A pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humor, gory kills, and sly twists, the genre-bending anthology hits theaters on April 4.

Executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort, the film is written and directed by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck.

Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.

The ensemble cast includes Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks.

Meagan Navarro wrote in her review out of Sundance, ” There’s a bombastic charm to Freaky Tales that captures the essence of ‘80s action and genre cinema in a way that few manage. Its delightfully...

On Thursday March 13 2025, BET broadcasts Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out!

Ari Fletcher; Rodney Perry Season 20 Episode 13 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out” features a lively showdown with special guests Ari Fletcher and Rodney Perry. This episode promises to deliver plenty of laughs and entertainment as the three engage in a series of fun and competitive games. Fans can look forward to seeing how these personalities bring their unique styles to the show.

One of the highlights of the episode is the game “Turn Up for What,” where contestants will have to showcase their energy and creativity. This game is known for its unpredictable moments, and with Ari and Rodney on board, it is sure to be filled with excitement. The playful banter and friendly competition between the guests and Nick Cannon will keep everyone entertained.

In addition to “Turn Up for What,” the episode will feature “Talking Spit,...

The excitement is building for Season 20, Episode 13 of “Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out,” airing on March 13, 2025, at 11:30 Pm on BET. This episode features social media star Ari Fletcher and comedian Rodney Perry, both ready to bring their unique styles to the stage. Fans can expect a night full of laughter and unexpected moments as these two celebrities go head-to-head in a series of hilarious games.

The episode kicks off with the game “Turn Up for What,” where contestants show off their best dance moves and wild antics. Next, the fun continues with “Talking Spit,” a game that tests the contestants’ ability to keep a straight face while their opponents try to make them laugh. Then, in “Kick ‘Em Out the Classroom,” the humor takes a playful jab at school life, allowing the contestants to showcase their comedic skills in a classroom setting.

The highlight of the night will surely be the Wildstyle battle,...

Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong has given a shot in the arm to the Bay Area baseball scene by joining the ownership group of the Oakland Ballers, an independent minor league team in the Pioneer League.

With the A’s temporarily playing in Sacramento for this upcoming season ahead of a move to Las Vegas, the Ballers are now the only professional baseball team in the East Bay. Armstrong’s buy-in is part of the second community investment round that opened on Tuesday, which is intended to raise $2 million, according to The Athletic. Another celebrity who bought a stake is legendary Oakland rapper Too $hort.

Get Green Day Tickets Here

“This is all about bringing families to a ball game,” Armstrong said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “After the A’s left, the town was heartbroken. The Ballers are going to bring good vibes back to Oakland and the broader East Bay.

Over a 35-year musical career, Billie Joe Armstrong has often walked the empty street, but has he ever run the loaded bases?

The Green Day icon is joining the ownership group of the Oakland Ballers, the new (and as of this coming season) only professional baseball team in Northern California’s East Bay. Armstrong and legendary Oakland rapper Too $hort are climbing aboard the independent Pioneer League team ahead of the 2025 campaign, giving a celebrity boost to a club that in its first season already attracted plenty of grassroots interest.

“This is all about bringing families to a ball game,” Armstrong said in an email to The Hollywood Reporter. “After the A’s left, the town was heartbroken. The Ballers are going to bring good vibes back to Oakland and the broader East Bay.”

Playing in newly constructed Raimondi Park, the team was an object of local and media fascination...

On Wednesday March 5 2025, BET broadcasts Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out!

Xzibit; Too $hort Season 20 Episode 14 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out” promises to be an exciting one. Titled “Xzibit; Too $hort,” this episode features a lineup of talented guests, including rapper Xzibit, Too $hort, and comedian Michael Blackson. Fans can expect a mix of humor and music as these stars compete in various entertaining games.

In this episode, the cast will engage in popular games like Pick Up and Kill It, What You Call That, and Kick ‘Em Out the Classroom. Each game is designed to showcase the quick wit and creativity of the participants. The friendly competition is sure to bring plenty of laughs and unexpected moments, as Nick Cannon leads the charge.

One of the highlights of the episode will be the Wildstyle battle, where the comedians and guests will go...

Lionsgate has debuted the trailer for the twisty action comedy ‘Freaky Tales.’

Set in 1987 Oakland, an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.

Directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, it is executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort. It features an all-star ensemble, including Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks. This pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humour, gory kills, and sly twists and turns makes for one wild ride.

Also in trailers – “You can’t just run…” Trailer lands for Apple TV+ series ‘Dope Thief’

The post “This underdog has seen his last day…” Trailer revealed for ‘Freaky Tales’ appeared first on HeyUGuys.

Pedro Pascal remains a busy, busy man. This year alone, he has The Fantastic Four: First Steps coming up, as well as The Last Of Us Season 2. Those two come hot off the heels of Gladiator II and a voice role in The Wild Robot last year, and somewhere in the mix he’s also armouring up again for 2026’s The Mandalorian & Grogu. But that’s not all: this year, we’ll also see him in Freaky Tales, an anthology action-comedy heist film from director duo Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, their first feature since Captain Marvel. Set in the late ‘80s, it spins a multi-threaded tale around the attempted heist of a basketball star named Sleepy Floyd in Oakland, California. And, as the trailer suggests, things get… well, freaky. Check it out here:

The throwback energy is strong in this one, promising retro cool – and lashings of bloody violence...

“Freaky Tales” is a bloody, live-action anthology feature, written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, starring Pedro Pascal. Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, Keir Gilchrist, Marteen, Michael X. Sommers, Yong Kim, Michelle Farrah Huang and Too $hort, opening April 4, 2025 in theaters:

‘…set in 1987 Oakland, California, the film is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters…

“…including an ‘NBA’ star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks and a debt collector…

“…on a collision course in a fever dream…

“…of showdowns and battles.”

Click the images to enlarge…...

Freaky Tales is finally on its way. On Tuesday, Lionsgate released the bloody, action-packed trailer for the upcoming film which stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Normani, Tom Hanks, and the late Angus Cloud. It’s set to release on April 4.

The flashback trailer opens with Pascal’s character Clint narrating the 1987-set Oakland story as clips of Normani portraying a musician flash by. “The underdog thinks he can do the impossible: to feed the bully, sell enough mixtapes to get out of the hood,” says Clint. “I can say with certainty,...

No one will hold it against you if you admit to watching the Freaky Tales trailer and coming away with absolutely no idea what’s going on. Even the synopsis doesn’t really help. However, the twisted action comedy/drama’s got Pedro Pascal in the lead, so at the very least it’s got that going for it.

Joining Pascal are Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud (in his final film), and Tom Hanks. Yes, even Tom Hanks pops up in what Lionsgate describes as a “pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humor, gory kills, and sly twists and turns.”

Captain Marvel‘s Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden write, direct, and serve as producers. Additional producers include Poppy Hanks and Jelani Johnson. Too $hort is an executive producer.

Lionsgate offers this synopsis: “Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star,...

Lionsgate has revealed the trailer for the action comedy Freaky Tales, which will open in theaters on April 4, 2025. The film has been rated R for strong bloody violence, language throughout including slurs, sexual content and drug use.

Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.

The movie was written and directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden. Their credits include Half Nelson, Sugar, Captain Marvel and Mrs. America.

Executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort, and featuring an all-star ensemble including Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud and Tom Hanks, this pulpy blend of explosive action, edgy humor, gory kills, and sly twists and turns makes for one wild ride.

Writer/Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck interconnect four energetic, frequently bloody stories in infectious genre-hopping anthology Freaky Tales, and the official trailer takes us back to the VHS era to tease the all-star ensemble and violence ahead.

Lionsgate releases Freaky Tales in theaters on April 4, 2025.

In the anthology, “Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles.”

Check out the trailer and new poster below, which introduces “The Last of Us” star Pedro Pascal as an unconventional warrior ready for violence. The film also marks one of the final on screen appearances for the late actor Angus Cloud.

Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and Tom Hanks star in Freaky Tales,...

Premiering over a year ago on the opening night of Sundance Film Festival, Freaky Tales was a hopeful return to proper filmmaking after Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck got sucked into the Marvel machine. Unfortunately, despite a game cast of Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, Normani, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, Angus Cloud, and (briefly) Tom Hanks, the scattershot 80s-set Oakland anthology didn’t quite live up to its midnight movie vibes. After holding on to it for some time, Lionsgate will now give the film a wide release on April 4 and the first trailer has arrived.

Here’s the synopsis: “Set in 1987 Oakland, Freaky Tales is a multi-track mixtape of colorful characters — an NBA star, a corrupt cop, a female rap duo, teen punks, neo-Nazis, and a debt collector — on a collision course in a fever dream of showdowns and battles. Executive produced by hip-hop pioneer Too $hort,...

Saweetie, Too Short, E-40, P-Lo, and more Bay Area stars are joining forces for the Golden State Warriors. Rolling Stone can exclusively announce that the NBA team’s entertainment division will release For the Soil, a musical project of NorCal rappers, on Feb. 12, just in time for All-Star Weekend in the city.

“Golden State Entertainment and the Warriors are leading the way in bridging music and sports, and I feel honored to have worked on this track with them,” P-Lo, who curated the album, tells Rolling Stone. “Bringing this vision...

Fuerza Régida is bringing a new festival to its hometown of San Bernardino. On Thursday, the band, fronted by singer/rapper Jop, announced that it will host and headline the first-ever Don’t Fall in Love Fest on Nov. 2, featuring top rap and musica mexicana artists.

Fuerza will headline the festival alongside Lil Baby and a “spectacular” legacy act headliner set to be announced on Oct. 7. The rap performers scheduled for the festival include Kodak Black, Sexyy Red, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Too $hort, and Lil Rob.

On the música mexicana side,...

Public Enemy, Cypress Hill, and De La Soul are among the topliners for Hip-Hop 101: From New York to The Bay, a one-day dream festival for ’90s rap fans coming to Oakland Arena on November 9th.

True to its name, the event will also feature Too $hort, Eric B & Rakim, Dilated Peoples, and Mistah Fab. A Live Nation pre-sale kicks off on Wednesday, August 14th (use access code Create) ahead of the general on-sale following on Friday, August 16th via Ticketmaster.

Get Hip-Hop 101: From New York to The Bay Tickets Here

Once tickets go on sale, you can also find deals and sold-out tickets at StubHub, where orders are 100% guaranteed through StubHub’s FanProtect program. StubHub is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

See where many of these artists landed on our list of the 50 best hip-hop albums of all time,...

The 24th BET Awards took place June 30, 2024 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, celebrating achievements in music, sports, television and movies. Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson hosted for the third time and Grammy-winning global icon Usher received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Gold Derby associate editor Latasha Ford was on the red carpet to chat with stars as they headed into the ceremony.

See 2024 BET Awards winners: Drake leads nominees, Usher honored with Lifetime Achievement Award [Full List]

Watch each red carpet interview below:

Killer Mike (rapper and activist)

Amirror (Afrobeat artist)

Raheem DeVaughn (singer/songwriter)

Koryn Hawthorne (gospel singer)

Bryon Javar

Candace Maxwell (“All the Queen’s Men”)

“The Family Business” cast

Flo Milli (rapper)

KenTheMan (rapper)

Karlous Miller

Polow da Don and Marini the Don

Moneybagg Yo (rapper)

Skilla Baby (rapper)

Spice (deejay and singer)

Ben Stephens (“The Family Business”)

Tee Grizzley (rapper)

Teenear (singer)

Too $hort (rapper)

Justina Valentine

Dylan Weber...

Freaknik was a massive street party that drew hundreds of thousands of people to the city of Atlanta in the '80s and '90s. Many credit this party for putting Atlanta on the map culturally. Years later, Luther "Uncle Luke" Campbell, Jermaine Dupri, 21 Savage, and many others have partnered up to produce a documentary that captures the vibrancy and uplifting feel of this notorious festival. Freaknik: The Wild Party Never Told shows the origins of Freaknik and how this Hbcu-focused event brought joy to the community and continues to uphold an unforgettable legacy. The documentary series is filled with video footage of the time, and captures what it was like being there, and how important it was to so many people. In addition, Freaknik features appearances by Lil Jon, Killer Mike, Jalen Rose, Too $hort, Shanti Das, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Erick Sermon, CeeLo Green, Rico Wade,...

Freaknik was a massive street party that drew hundreds of thousands of people to the city of Atlanta in the '80s and '90s. Many credit this party for putting Atlanta on the map culturally. Years later, Luther "Uncle Luke" Campbell, Jermaine Dupri, 21 Savage, and many others have partnered up to produce a documentary that captures the vibrancy and uplifting feel of this notorious festival. Freaknik: The Wild Party Never Told shows the origins of Freaknik and how this Hbcu-focused event brought joy to the community and continues to uphold an unforgettable legacy. The documentary series is filled with video footage of the time, and captures what it was like being there, and how important it was to so many people. In addition, Freaknik features appearances by Lil Jon, Killer Mike, Jalen Rose, Too $hort, Shanti Das, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Erick Sermon, CeeLo Green, Rico Wade,...

“Freaknik was the greatest Black gathering in America,” Lil Jon says in the trailer for the upcoming doc, Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told. The film looks at the history of the long-running Atlanta street party known as Freaknik, with commentary from 21 Savage, Killer Mike, Jermaine Dupri, Uncle Luke, and many others. The full documentary will premiere on Hulu on March 21.

“We said, ‘Let’s plan a picnic during spring break,'” Amadi Boon, one of the event’s co-founders, says in the trailer. “Let’s call it ‘Freaknik,...

Hulu has announced the premiere dates for limited series Under the Bridge and the two docs The Contestant and the film Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told.

Under the Bridge is a limited series with eight episodes that’s based on Rebecca Godfrey’s book about the 1997 true story of fourteen-year old Reena Virk who went to join friends at a party and never returned home. The Hulu limited series that stars Lily Gladstone, Archie Panjabi and Riley Keough premieres April 17.

The series was adapted for screen by Quinn Shephard and is executive produced by Samir Mehta, Liz Tigelaar and Stacey Silverman (Best Day Ever), Shephard, Godfrey and Tara Duncan. Keough will executive produce with Gina Gammell (Felix Culpa). Geeta Patel will direct the pilot and EP the episode. The series is produced by ABC Signature.

Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told bows March 21 on Hulu in the U.S.

Prepare for an epic night of rap battles, comedic showdowns, and live performances as “Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘n Out” returns with Season 20 Episode 14. Airing on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 11:29 Pm on BET, this episode is not to be missed.

The stage is set for an explosive battle as the multitalented Nick Cannon hosts this star-studded episode. Joining him are renowned rapper and actor Xzibit, hip-hop legend Too $hort, and the hilarious Michael Blackson.

Viewers can expect a wild ride with games like “Pick Up and Kill It,” “What You Call That,” “Kick ‘Em Out the Classroom,” and the fan-favorite “Wildstyle Battle.” The wit and humor will be off the charts as these celebrities face off in rapid-fire banter.

Adding to the excitement, Xzibit will perform his hit track “Get Ya Walk On,” ensuring that the energy in the room reaches its peak.

For those who love hip-hop, comedy, and unscripted entertainment,...

The sun is setting on the 2024 installment of the Sundance Film Festival, closing out a milestone 40th edition and leaving many headlines in its wake. Those included a whopping $17 million Netflix acquisition for a buzzy directorial debut, a pro-Palestine protest that shut down Main Street, a Sundance debut for a former first daughter, and the rise of standing ovations across Park City. If you weren’t able to make it out to the mountain, The Hollywood Reporter has rounded up what you missed.

Drawn Out or Dud Dealmaking?

Making an appearance as the moderator for the opening day press conference, Jason Blum, a festival veteran, offered an earnest plea for buyers: “The release schedule for the first half of the year is decimated, and I hope, particularly for theatrical distributors, that the market should be very, very healthy.” Whether or not this will happen remains to be seen. As with the past few years,...

Malia Obama stepped onto a red carpet last week for the first time, with good reason. The former first daughter hit Park City for the Sundance Film Festival premiere of her short film The Heart, an 18-minute directorial debut that snagged a spot in the U.S. short fiction films program of the 2024 edition. The premiere screening happened on the fest’s opening day, Jan. 18, and screened two more times over the weekend. The budding filmmaker, who participated in all post-screening Q&As to discuss her work, also took time out of her busy schedule to screen the film and speak with a group of students at Park City High School about all things creative from writing to directing.

Malia Obama attended The Heart premiere and posed with her actors and short-film collaborators.

It wasn’t all work and no play for the 25-year-old daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama.